Do you want to create an excellent podcast that offers value to your listeners?
One of the first major decisions you’ll make for your show is what format to use. Each podcast has its own structure tailored to its subject matter and audience’s tastes. Here are the 5 most common ones to help you decide.
Solo Hosted
A solo-hosted show is one where just 1 person talks, tells stories, comments on the news, teaches how to do things, or responds to feedback.
The best thing about a solo-hosted podcast is you can do it all yourself. You’re in total control, and you can record episodes anytime it suits you.
The downside is that you need to do all the talking yourself. You don’t have a co-host to liven it up, so you must find ways to make it interesting.
Co-Hosted
On a co-hosted podcast, 2 or more hosts have their own roles to play. For example, the host may present the information while the co-host comments or asks questions. Or, the host may be the topic expert, and the co-host asks questions on behalf of the audience.
One variation on the co-hosted show is to have a panel or roundtable, where you have more than 2 people regularly appearing on the show.
The main advantage is that you can have discussions, which makes the show more dynamic for listeners. Co-hosted shows are also great for getting over “mic fright.”
The downside is that you need to coordinate with your co-hosts to produce episodes. It also requires more editing as you have multiple voices.
Interviews
For this format, you interview an expert, influencer, celebrity, or audience member in each episode. Interview shows offer great value for the audience by presenting different points of view and areas of knowledge. They’re also easy for you to produce. You don’t need to create a full script, but just prepare a list of questions and do some research on your guest.
Interview podcasts are excellent for growing your audience. When you interview someone, their fans will learn about your show through their guest appearance. Your interviews also help to lend you credibility. If a well-known expert in your niche is willing to be on your show, it means it is worth listening to.
The downside is that scheduling can be tricky, and you need a constant pipeline of good guests.
Scripted Non-Fiction
Scripted non-fiction refers to fully scripted shows that cover non-fiction topics. The most popular topics in this genre include true crime, investigative journalism, and history.
Fully scripted shows are highly engaging for audiences. The true crime genre is particularly popular. However, producing each episode takes much time researching, preparing, and editing.
Scripted Fiction
There are also scripted fiction shows that tell or act out a story. Like scripted non-fiction, these shows are highly entertaining. Since you can create your own stories, there’s no limit to the topics you can cover.
The downside is that, like scripted non-fiction, each episode takes a great deal of time to produce. You need to be a compelling storyteller and have a constant source of new material.
Choosing a Format for Your Podcast
There are two considerations when choosing a format for your podcast. First, take into consideration the tastes of your audience. What type of show do they like?
Second, consider your limitations. How much time do you have to produce your show? What kind of content can you offer your audience?
Choose the suitable format, and you’ll be on your way to launching your successful podcast.
Want to learn more about how you can launch a successful podcast? Head over here: 5 Keys in 5 Days to Unlock Your Podcast and Launching a Successful Podcast
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