Why You Need to Take Advantage of Podcast Video

From animation to audiobooks, voice work can be exactly what an audience wants—but what about podcasts? Many of your listeners may be satisfied with tuning in on their commute or while they do laundry, but sometimes, don’t you just want to put a face to your favorite host?

Podcasts are a little different from other forms of audio-based entertainment because your audience is deeply connected to you as a creator—a nebulous voiceover or behind-the-scenes bonus content doesn’t always cut it.

So yeah, having a podcast video might seem a little counterintuitive at first if all you’re thinking is “audio entertainment,” but trust us: your podcast can be so much more. Here, we explore the ins, outs, benefits, and types of podcast videos so that you can elevate your media brand.

What Is a Podcast Video?

A podcast video (sometimes called a video podcast or even “vodcast”) is a digital media format that combines audio and video content. Yep. It’s pretty much as simple as that.

Similar to traditional podcasts, which are primarily audio, video podcasts offer some kind of visual component. A lot of the time, the video features hosts and guests in recorded conversations or interviews. For some creators, their videos are just a static image of their face or brand image. There are a lot of possibilities (which we’ll dive into), but the basic idea is to provide a visual element so that the audio isn’t the only star of the show.

These videos can typically be streamed on various platforms like YouTube, podcast apps, and social media sites. The format really allows creators to engage more dynamically with their audience by providing some visual storytelling and enhancing interactions—making the content more accessible and relatable to their audience.

Why Should You Start a Podcast Video?

Why bother with video at all when podcasts are typically seen as audio-based media? Is it all about aesthetics? While a sharp design definitely adds to the appeal of your projects, there are even more practical and lucrative reasons to leverage a podcast video.

Reaches a Wider Audience

First, not everyone is 100% into podcasts, and adding video can help you appeal to a broader group of people. Video content is accessible on multiple platforms such as YouTube, Vimeo, and social media channels like Facebook and Instagram, where it can attract viewers who might not typically listen to audio podcasts. 

Plus, did you know that YouTube is the second-largest search engine in the world? Between the views on social media and the potential of such a large platform like YouTube, adding video to your podcast is kind of a no-brainer.

People Respond Better to Video

Visual elements can make content more engaging and memorable, too—especially if they can make that human connection by seeing the actual people behind the audio. According to various studies, people tend to retain information better when it's delivered visually and verbally. Videos also allow you to use non-verbal communication, such as facial expressions and gestures, which makes your storytelling even more authentic as you connect more deeply with your audience.

It also doesn’t hurt that you can repurpose your episode into micro-videos on other platforms—again, this is where social media comes in full swing. You can extract key moments, quotes, or discussions from your episodes and turn them into shorter video clips to post on TikTok or Instagram. This boosts your overall views and promotes your full episodes, too. More content, more demographics, more success.

You’re Already Half-Way There!

If you're already running an audio podcast, you have much of the necessary content and structure in place to transition to video. Adding video recording to your setup can be as straightforward as setting up a camera and some basic lighting. This small addition can dramatically increase your content's visibility and appeal.

In addition to all of this, video content comes with some unique perks. For example, video podcasts can attract sponsorships and advertisements that are typically higher in value compared to audio-only formats. Moreover, platforms like YouTube offer monetization options through ads, memberships, and super chats during live streams, providing additional revenue streams. 

Types of Podcast Video

Static Video

This is the simplest form of video podcasting, where a single, static image or a series of images (such as a logo or slideshow) accompanies the audio track. While this is an excellent option for podcasters who want to be present on video platforms without investing in complex video production, you aren’t going to fill the need for listeners who want to see you, and you’re missing out on the chance to repurpose your video content on social channels. But hey, you gotta start somewhere!

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In-Studio Video

A controlled studio environment has its benefits, too. It typically features hosts and guests interacting on camera, with professional lighting, sound equipment, and sometimes multiple camera angles. In-studio videos provide a polished look and feel, making them attractive to viewers who appreciate high production values.

Remote Interview

You don’t even have to gather people in the same room to create a compelling video. Remote interviews are conducted via video conferencing tools where each participant is in a different location. The video captures each speaker, usually in a split-screen format or switching between speakers. They have become extremely popular due to their convenience and the ability to feature guests from anywhere in the world.

Onsite Interview

You don’t have to have a formal or recurring studio if you don’t want to. Onsite interviews involve filming in a location relevant to the podcast's topic or guest's expertise, such as their place of work, public events, or outdoor settings. Onsite interviews add a dynamic backdrop and context to the content, offering visual interest and a sense of immediacy.

What Kind of Equipment Will You Need?

This is the sticking point for a lot of people, but you don’t have to break the bank to acquire your equipment. Here are the basics that will help get you started with video.

High Definition Camera

A good quality camera is essential for creating visually appealing content. It's important to choose a camera that can record in high definition (at least 1080p), which will make your video podcast look professional.

Tripod

 A sturdy tripod stabilizes your camera, to ensure that your video remains steady and professional-looking. This is obviously for in-person filming, but it’s pretty crucial in those settings since shaky videos can totally detract from the viewer's experience.

Microphone

Audio clarity is still one of your top priorities in video podcasts. Invest in a good quality microphone that can capture clear and crisp sound. This could be a USB microphone that's easy to set up with your computer or a more professional XLR microphone if you're using an audio interface.

Lighting

If you’re going to have a video, make it fun (or at least easy) to look at. Proper lighting can greatly enhance the visual quality of your video. Softbox lights or ring lights are popular choices as they provide even, flattering light and reduce shadows.

There are other odds and ends, but to keep it brief, these are the core components you want to look into (depending on the type of video podcast you jump into):

• Video camera: Canon EOS Rebel T7 Digital SLR
• Webcam: Logitech C922x Pro Stream
• Mic: Audio-Technica ATR 2100
• Headphones: LyxPro headset
• Lighting: GVM 80W Softbox Lighting Kit
• Digital recorder: Tascam DR-60DMKII 4-Channel Portable Audio Recorder
• Headphone splitter: NANYI Headset Splitter Cable
• Surge protector: Bototek Surge Protector

For more equipment information, check out our checklist for the perfect podcast setup.

How to Create the Podcast Video

Now for the pièce de résistance: how the heck do you actually make a podcast video? Here are 5 steps that make it easy as pie.

Pick a Topic to Discuss

What are you talking about in your podcast? How does this vary from episode to episode? Your topic should resonate with your target audience and fit within your overall content strategy. There are all kinds of things to talk about on a podcast, but it should be something you're knowledgeable about or can provide unique insights on— especially if you’re in the B2B space. Consider current trends, audience questions, or gaps in existing content.

Record the Video

Set up your filming environment with the necessary equipment such as a camera, microphone, and lighting. Your background ought to be professional and free of distractions—after all, the spotlight should be on you as the host and any guests. It’s okay to practice your talking points to maintain a natural flow, too. This can be scripted or bullet-pointed to keep you on track without sounding rehearsed.

Edit the Video

With the actual filming done, it’s time to dive into the technical side of recording. Use video editing software to trim out unnecessary parts, add overlays, and enhance audio quality. Editing helps to keep the content dynamic and engaging. You might want to include visuals like charts, slides, or relevant B-rolls to illustrate points and maintain viewer interest.

Create a Distinct Thumbnail

Before you post or share your podcast video, you have to decide what your audience will first see. Your thumbnail acts as a first impression. Make it eye-catching and relevant to the topic. It should be professionally designed to stand out in a crowded feed and invite viewers old and new.

Share and Promote your Podcast

Once your podcast video is ready, it's time to share and promote it across multiple channels:

• Social Media: Share micro videos of the most interesting moments from your show on platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram. Tailor your message to fit each platform's audience.
• Email Newsletters: Repurpose key talking points from your podcast in your newsletters to reach existing followers. 
• Your Website: Embed the video on a relevant page or in a blog post to enhance SEO and keep visitors longer on your site.

From a single video podcast episode, you can create multiple smaller content pieces like quotes, stats, or micro videos for social media posts. This maximizes the reach of your content and appeals to different segments of your audience, all while decreasing the amount of time you spend creating original content.

How Can Sweet Fish Help Me with Podcast Video?

At Sweet Fish, we help B2B companies launch and produce successful podcasts, and a large part of that success comes from the omnichannel distribution opportunities podcast video unlocks. If you are a B2B company looking to start a podcast, or considering adding podcast video to your production mix, look no further. 

Beyond creating your show a distinct media brand that attracts your target audience, we help you batch 3 months' worth of (video) podcasts in 3 days, edit the footage, and publish it across all relevant channels. 

If batching isn’t your thing, we’ll send you all the equipment you need and teach you how to set it up, so all you have to do is press record and send us the raw footage back so we can mix it to perfection. 

From there, we’ll take your podcast and turn it into micro-videos for your socials, turn your key learnings into newsletter and blog content, and ramp up your top-of-funnel awareness as a whole. 

To take all your podcast and video efforts to the next level, learn more about what a media brand is and why every B2B marketing team needs to launch one. 

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