How Does a Podcast Work and What Is It?

Podcasting is a relatively new medium. Actually, the term “podcast” first appeared in print in 2004. Despite being a relatively new medium, podcasts have had a significant global influence on listeners.

But what exactly is a podcast, and why do so many people find them appealing? While podcasts and radio broadcasts are comparable, they have certain benefits that draw listeners and content producers.

Podcasts come in a variety of forms, and no two are precisely the same. Whatever your definition of podcasting may be, it’s obvious that this kind of media needs more investigation.

Comprehend podcasts

So what exactly is a podcast and how does it operate? A podcast is essentially a digital media made up of episodes that are either video or audio and are themed around a certain topic. A podcast’s presenters are known as “podcasters.”

A podcast may be easily created, in contrast to many other media formats where entrance restrictions exist. Podcasters just need a microphone and some simple recording software to get started. Anyone is able to record and distribute content on podcasts since they are unregulated.

Podcasters usually use digital content that has been recorded, edited, and shared with an audience. They provide three options for sharing the podcast episode: upload it to YouTube, post audio files to a podcast hosting platform (like Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or Spotify), or share it straight from their website.

A podcast may draw listeners in a number of ways once it is launched. Using podcast directories, listeners may find and subscribe to new episodes. Robust SEO (search engine optimization) may aid a podcast in attracting listeners, as major search engines feature podcast episodes in their search results.

The intent behind podcasts

While every podcast has a different objective, most of them are meant to be entertaining. A podcast can be listened to for entertainment, to stay up to date on current affairs, or to learn more about a certain subject.

Additionally effective as a marketing tool is a podcast. Podcasting may be a great way to sell to your current audience, expand your reach, and promote your brand. Establishing a community around a podcast can serve as a means of fostering trust.

In the US, there are already over 100 million active podcast listeners, and the number is rising yearly. An audience can be engaged, motivated, or informed by a podcast. A podcast is ultimately a medium for content sharing. While some people like to read articles, others would rather listen to things. Podcasters may utilize the medium in a variety of ways since it is adaptable.

Podcast genres

Similar to other media like movies, novels, and TV shows, podcasts feature a variety of subjects. Although humor is the most popular genre of podcasts, there is a sizable following for other genres as well, such as true crime, news, and business.

Podcasts are immensely different, as you will quickly discover if you attempt to describe podcasting. Podcasts can vary in terms of structure, tone, and duration. Among the most well-liked podcasting formats are:

Talkative

In essence, a conversational podcast is a discussion. A podcast host might converse lightheartedly about a subject or speak with visitors. This structure is akin to that of a conventional radio program.

Single-word statement

Podcasts with a single host are called monologues, whereas those with many hosts or a roundtable discussion are called conversational podcasts. It is an unscripted format that may talk about many subjects. With no need to collaborate with other hosts, this podcast format might be a simple means of expanding your fan base.

Narrative non-fiction

A real-life occurrence is presented in an interesting way in these podcasts. What podcast, if any, exemplifies this format? Popular podcast and radio program “This American Life” features journalistic human interest tales.

Performing Arts

Although non-fiction makes up the majority of podcasts, fiction can also be told in this medium. While some scripted podcasts give single stories, others create stories spread across several episodes.

Adapted

Content producers are using podcast episodes to recycle pre-existing content more and more frequently. During the podcast, hosts have the option to read articles and blog entries. As a result, viewers may interact with the material in the format of their choice.

Mixture

Podcasts are not limited to a certain format. Podcasts frequently change in tone from episode to episode or over time. A host of a monologue podcast, for instance, could once in a while extend an invitation to guests in order to conduct a conversational podcast episode.

Podcasts: Audio or Video

In the past, podcasting was limited to audio alone, but that is no longer the case. Videos, such as photos and infographics or the hosts’ own film, are frequently used in podcasts. Videos and audio files both have advantages and provide distinct opportunities.

Podcasts on audio are easier to access. A digital music file can be listened to anyplace, while videos can only be watched in specific situations. A podcast that is in audio format may be hosted on several platforms and requires fewer equipment.

Nonetheless, podcasters may expand their audience by using video podcasts. Those who don’t often listen to podcasts could view videos on Twitch or YouTube. You may also impart facts with video footage that might be challenging to communicate with voice content.

It’s crucial to take your goals, audience, and available resources into account when selecting a podcast format. You may determine which kind of podcast your target audience prefers by using behavioral targeting.

The reasons podcasts are well-liked

Although their large following is evident, why is the podcast format so well-liked? The fact that podcasts are so simple to consume is one of their greatest draws. People may listen to podcasts at home or on the road, and many of them are available for free.

Almost everyone can discover a podcast that suits their interests and inclinations because there are so many different kinds of podcasts. Every possible audience may find a podcast they enjoy, ranging from laugh-out-loud humorous to instructional.

Multitasking is another great thing about podcasting. Podcasts on audio are easy to listen to and don’t take up much of your time. Podcasts are great for listening to while working, doing errands, or even working out.

People may interact with a wider community by listening to podcasts. People can locate individuals who share their interests and passions with the use of podcasts. There are active Discord channels and subreddits for many podcasts where viewers may communicate with one another.