69. The 2 reasons why people listen to podcasts (Pros and cons and strategies for hosts)
Have you ever wondered why people tune in to podcasts?
What makes them hit that subscribe button and eagerly await each new episode? In this episode, we will delve into the two main reasons why people listen to podcasts, explore the pros and cons of each approach, and uncover some valuable tips for creating a successful podcast that resonates with your audience.
Uncovering the Driving Forces Behind Podcast Consumption
When it comes to understanding the allure of podcasts, it all boils down to two key elements:
the topic,
the personality.
Listeners are drawn to podcasts either because they have a genuine interest in the subject matter being discussed or because they connect with the host on a personal level (who doesn’t want to be a fly-in-the-wall with two besties discussing life?)
The Power of Personality-Driven Podcasts
Personality-driven podcasts offer a unique opportunity for listeners to feel like they are a part of the host's world. These shows focus more on the host's life experiences and opinions rather than on specialized knowledge or expertise. With a more relaxed and conversational format, personality-driven podcasts create a sense of intimacy and connection with the audience.
Pros of Personality-Driven Shows:
Freedom to discuss a wide range of topics,
No expertise required, allows for a more casual tone,
Authenticity and raw content resonates with listeners,
Ability to build a strong connection with a wider audience.
Cons of Personality-Driven Shows:
Reliance on the host's ability to engage and entertain,
Challenges in sustaining and finding relevant topics,
Limited opportunities for monetization compared to topic-driven shows (unless you’re reaching the masses).
Examples of Successful Personality-Driven Shows: anything goes with Emma Chamberlain, The Joe Rogan Experience,
The Appeal of Topic-Driven Podcasts
On the other hand, topic-driven podcasts attract listeners seeking to learn, be inspired, or gain insights on specific subjects. These shows are structured around a particular theme or expertise, offering in-depth knowledge and valuable takeaways for the audience. Business owners and professionals seeking to stand out as leaders in their industry see the biggest benefits from this type of podcast on all timelines (short, medium and long-term).
Pros of Topic-Driven Shows:
Topical content that appeals to a specific audience,
Opportunities for monetization through products, services, and sponsorships,
When properly leveraged it allows for
Clear communication of expertise and value to a targeted audience.
Cons of Topic-Driven Shows:
Need for in-depth knowledge and expertise on the subject matter,
Hosts tend to be often stuck in ‘compariosionitis’,
Expectations of high(er)-quality and well-researched content,
Risk of audience outgrowing the content or losing interest over time.
Examples of Topic-Driven Shows: The Happiness Lab, The Podcast Space, Don’t Drink the Milk, Online Marketing Made Easy.
Can they mix?
By now you may be asking yourself: ‘But isn’t there a hybrid/combination approach?’
And the answer is yes, there is. The reality is that for most listeners, the choice tends to be primarily either by personality or topic-driven: the host may be very charismatic AND knowledgeable enough to gather the attention of topic-loving listeners. However, to reach this milestone it does require long-term commitment.
Combination shows: The Marie Forleo Podcast, Unlocking Us, with Brené Brown, Diary of a CEO.
Conclusion:
Whether you lean towards a personality-driven or a topic-driven approach, the key to creating a successful podcast lies in understanding your audience, providing valuable content, and staying true to your unique voice. By striking a balance between engaging storytelling and expert insights, you can captivate listeners and build a loyal following for your show. Remember, podcasting is not just about delivering information – it's about creating a memorable experience for your audience. So, whether you're sharing personal stories or diving deep into niche topics, make sure each episode leaves a lasting impact on your listeners.
As you embark on your podcasting journey, embrace the imperfections, celebrate the successes, and keep evolving your show to meet the changing needs of your audience. Stay true to your passion, experiment with new ideas, and above all, enjoy the process of creating content that inspires and resonates with others.
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction: The Importance of Understanding Podcast Audiences
01:48 The Two Main Reasons People Listen to Podcasts
02:16 Diving Deep into Personality-Driven Podcasts: Pros and Cons
08:03 Exploring Topic-Driven Podcasts: Pros and Cons
15:20 Strategies for Successful Podcasting
Additional episodes:
Resources mentioned in the episode:
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