What Is a Podcast and How Does it Work?
Podcasting is a relatively new medium, with the word “podcast” only being introduced in 2004. Despite their recent emergence, podcasts have already made a significant impact on audiences worldwide.
So, what exactly is a podcast and why are they so popular? Essentially, a podcast is a digital audio or video series that revolves around a specific theme. The creators of podcasts are known as podcasters.
The beauty of podcasting is that it is simple to produce. All you need is basic equipment like recording software and a microphone. Since podcasts are not regulated, anyone can create and share content.
Once a podcast is produced, it can be shared in a variety of ways. Podcast directories such as Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or Spotify allow users to discover and subscribe to new podcasts. Additionally, strong search engine optimization can help a podcast find listeners through major search engines.
Podcasts can serve a variety of purposes. They can be used for entertainment, education, or to stay informed on current events. They can also be a powerful market tool to promote a business and engage with an audience. With over 100 million live podcast listeners in the United States, podcasts are an excellent way to share content that engages and inspires listeners.
Types of podcasts
Podcasts are a form of entertainment that covers a wide range of topics. While comedy is the most popular genre, other genres like true crime, news, and business also have a significant audience. Defining podcasting is difficult as they can differ in length, tone, and format. Podcasts are available in different styles, including conversational, monologue, non-fiction storytelling, theatrical, repurposed, and hybrid.
Conversational podcasts are essentially discussions where a host may casually talk about a topic or interview guests. Monologue podcasts, on the other hand, have a solo host and are unscripted. They can cover a wider range of subject and offer an easy way to grow your audience. Non-fiction storytelling podcasts present real-life events in an engaging way. For instance, “This American Life” is a popular radio show and podcast that speak journalistic human interest stories.
Theatrical podcasts are a format for fictional stories. Some scripted podcasts tell a narrative over a few episodes, while others present standalone tales. Repurposed podcasts involve repurposing existing content, like reading blog posts and articles during the podcast. This allows audiences to engage with the content in their preferred format.
Hybrid podcasts didnt have to stick to a individual format. They can vary in style over episodes or over time. For example, some with a monologue podcast might sometimes invite guests and host a conversational podcast episode.
Audio vs. video podcasting
In the early days of podcasting, it was solely an audio-based medium. However, that’s no longer the case. Nowadays, it’s common for podcasts to incorporate a video element. This can include footage of the hosts, images, and infographics. Both audio and video formats have their benefits and offer different possibilities.
Audio podcasts are more accessible than video podcasts. Digital audio files can be listened to anywhere, while videos require certain circumstances to be watched. Audio podcasts also require less equipment and can be hosted on a variety of platforms.
Conversely, video podcasts can help audio content creator reach a new audience. People who don’t typically listen to podcasts may watch videos on YouTube or Twitch. By using video footage, podcasters can also share information that may be difficult to convey through audio content.
When deciding on a format for your podcast, it’s important to examine your goals, audience, and resources. Behavioral targeting can help identify which type of podcast would be more appealing to your target audience.
Reasons podcasts are popular
Podcasts have gained a vast audience, but what makes this format so popular? One of its most appealing features is how easy it is to enjoy. Many podcasts are free, and people can listen to them at home or on the go.
With a wide type of podcasts to choose from, anyone can find one that caters to their interests. Whether it’s educational or entertaining, there’s a podcast for everyone.
Podcasts are perfect for multitasking since they don’t demand your full attention. You can listen to them while working, running errands, or exercising.
By listening to podcasts, people can connect with a wider community. Many podcasts have active subreddits or Discord channels where listeners can interact with each other and share their passions and interests.
Should you make a podcast?
After learning about what podcasting is, you may be wondering if it is the right fit for your business. Podcasts can be an incredibly effective marketing tool when used for content creation. Not only do they help you reach new audiences, but they also enable you to remain connected with your current audience. If you have an email list, sharing podcast episodes with your subscribers is straightforward.
However, before launching a new podcast, it is crucial to consider the bigger picture. Take the time to weigh the benefits and drawbacks and determine the best course of action for your business.
The pros of making a podcast
Podcasting is an affordable medium. While it takes time to create a podcast, it doesn’t require a significant upfront investment. This means you can launch a new podcast without breaking the bank.
Podcasts are highly accessible. Unlike other forms of content, podcasts are easy to enjoy. Your audience can listen to your podcast whenever they want, wherever they want, and this increases the likelihood of engagement.
Podcasts are an effective way to share information. They are both entertaining and informative, making them a great medium for discussing a new product or educating your audience on a topic.
Podcasts help to keep your audience engaged. Engagement is vital in digital marketing, and podcasts are a great way to hold your audience’s attention.
Podcasts can expand your reach.
If your podcast is successful, it can help increase your following through word of mouth. This is a highly effective way to reach a new audience.
The cons of making a podcast
Creating a podcast requires time and effort. You need to allocate enough time to record and edit episodes and also invest time in marketing to attract more listeners. However, it’s important to keep in mind that not everyone is interested in podcasts. Before starting a podcast, you should evaluate if it’s the best way to reach out to your target audience. Additionally, it’s crucial to make your podcast engaging and entertaining as most people lose interest quickly if the content is not interesting enough. Therefore, it’s recommended to carefully consider the type of content you want to produce before creating a podcast.
The Malayali Podcast with Krrish
If you are a Malayali, then you should definitely check out our hybrid Malayalam podcast. The Malayali Podcast channel aims to connect Malayalis from around the world. As a global Malayalam podcast channel based in Kerala, we strive to create a diverse range of Malayalam audio content, covering topics such as relationships, lifestyle advice, technology, life stories, and chill vibes. We work hard to produce valuable episodes that add value to our listeners. If you are interested in sharing your thoughts and opinions, please contact us as we have an exciting interview section.
