Podcasting has rapidly emerged as a powerful medium for sharing ideas, stories and expertise. Whether you plan to pursue podcasting at work or a side hustle, having a platform where your voice can be heard is appealing. Violeta Saladiene, Toastmasters International, is an award-winning speaker and communications expert, and we are excited to share some of her tips that will help in creating an engaging podcast and making it compelling listening…
Tips for creating an engaging podcast
1. Know your audience
Ask yourself why you are doing the podcast, if the purpose is to entertain, inform or educate and then jot down who you want to reach.
The answers to these questions will help you plan the content of your episodes, ensuring they are relevant and engaging. For example, if your podcast is aimed at PAs, you’ll want to focus on topics that resonate with them, their challenges and interests.
At Shilling Speakers Toastmasters Club, we’ve run our podcast for two years and have 52 episodes in the can. Episodes are listened to by our club members, and we’re also trying to attract new members, by giving them a flavour of what to expect when coming to a meeting at our club.
2. Stick to a structure
Having a consistent structure for your podcast episodes can greatly enhance the listening experience. Decide if you want to present alone or with a team and agree on the segments for each episode. This structure not only brings variety, but also sets clear expectations for the audience.
3. Determine the episode length
Between 30-40 minutes is generally the most effective, because its long enough to delve into topics without overwhelming the listener. As you gain more experience, you can adjust the length based on audience feedback and the complexity of the topics covered. Shorter episodes can be punchy and more easily digestible, leaving listeners wanting more.
4. Establish a publishing frequency
Decide how often you’ll release new episodes and stick to that schedule. Publishing regular episodes not only meets audience expectations, but also helps maintain listener engagement. Consistency also signals professionalism and reliability, which can help you grow a dedicated listener base.
5. Invest in quality recording equipment
When starting a podcast, one important consideration is audio quality. Invest in a high-quality microphone to ensure clear, professional sound. Consider the recording environment and minimise background noise and echoes to enhance sound quality. Poor audio quality deters listeners, no matter how compelling your content.
6. Use effective editing software
Editing can make or break your podcast. Free software like Audacity and GarageBand are excellent starting points. If your budget allows, consider professional options like Adobe Audition or Hindenburg Journalist. Editing involves more than cutting out mistakes, it’s about creating a smooth, engaging flow, improving the listening experience.
7. Publish on popular platforms
Publish your podcast on major platforms such as Spotify (32m + monthly listeners) and Apple Podcasts (28m+ monthly listeners). Pay attention to the title and description of each episode. A catchy, intriguing title can attract new listeners, while a detailed description with relevant keywords can help your podcast appear in search results.
Podcasting is a dynamic and fulfilling way to share your voice with the world. So be sure to promote your podcast to grow your audience. Use the most appropriate social media to reach your potential listeners. Engaging with your audience by sharing behind-the-scenes content, episode highlights, and encouraging listeners to leave reviews will also lead to organic growth and a loyal listener base.
About Violeta Saladiene
Violeta Saladiene is a member of Toastmasters International, a not-for-profit organisation that has provided communication and leadership skills since 1924 through a worldwide network of clubs. She is an award-winning speaker, online consumer behaviour consultant and a master in effective communication across channels.
There are more than 400 Toastmasters clubs and 10,000 members in the UK and Ireland. Members follow a structured educational programme to gain skills and confidence in public and impromptu speaking, chairing meetings and time management. To find your nearest club, visit www.toastmasters.org
