With a little advance planning, you can produce a podcast series your target audience will really enjoy.
To record a podcast, you need a microphone, recording and editing software and equipment, and a podcast host. But you also need a plan. Think about these considerations before you podcast.
Tone and Content. How will your podcast be different from other podcasts (or related media)? Originality is important, especially if you want your podcast to be prominently featured by iTunes and other podcast directories, or if you're contemplating monetization.
Check out other podcasts and websites that relate to your podcast's subject. If you find a well-produced podcast on your topic, then consider ways to make your podcast different. Will your podcast have a serious or humorous tone? Will you restrict the content of the episodes to specific themes or subject matter not explored elsewhere?
Format. Just like radio and
television programs, there are many types of podcasts. Considering your
your audience, which format of podcast would they like best?
- A monologue-style podcast, featuring commentary by a single host.
- A duo-style podcast, emphasizing conversation between two hosts.
- An interview-style podcast, featuring studio guests or on-the-street, "live" podcasting
- Entertainment podcast, featuring music, drama, readings, or other performances.
How long will your podcast be? Online audiences have short attention spans. The duration and frequency
of your podcasts may also be affected by how much time you can
dedicate to podcasting. One well-produced five-minute podcast
episode can take more than a week to create, edit, and put online!
Subscribers like regular schedules, so plan on podcasting no less frequently than once a month. Few people have the time or energy for a daily podcast, and a weekly podcast is for the truly dedicated.
