Are We Overcomplicating Podcasting?

Podcasting isn’t easy, but it doesn’t have to be complicated.

Figuring out who you want to reach and how you’ll serve them is hard work, but it’s the kind that truly moves the needle.

In 2025, we risk losing sight of that north star. Too often, clarity is traded for trends, and purpose is swapped for perceived expectations. Stay focused. The best podcasts still begin by serving real people, not chasing the algorithm.

On this episode, I'm joined by Rachel Corbett, who brings a wealth of podcasting experience to the table. We discuss some recent data collected through regular polls in our Podcraft Pointers newsletter. Then, we catch up on the latest tools, tactics, and techniques that are working well for us right now.

Key Talking Points

The "Podcasting" Name Debate

• 83% of surveyed indie podcasters believe the term "podcast" hasn't outlived its usefulness
• Industry voices with big profiles are pushing for rebranding, but thousands of creators prefer keeping the term
• Comparison made to radio shows that also stream video - they don't stop being called "radio shows"
• Major platforms (YouTube, Spotify, Apple, CNN) still use the term "podcast"

Video vs. Audio-Only Content

• Many new podcasters feel overwhelmed by video expectations and delay starting their shows
• Video doubles workflow time and adds technical complexity (lighting, makeup, outfit changes for batch recording)
• Consistency matters more than video for podcast success
• Risk of creative monoculture - video favours simple chat show formats over inventive audio formats like dramas and documentaries

Monetisation Challenges with Video

• Dynamic ad serving (industry standard) doesn't work on YouTube or Spotify's cached video feeds
• Forces return to baked-in ads, creating same problems the industry solved years ago
• Cuts off major monetisation channels for creators heavily dependent on Spotify

Platform Control Issues

• Google pushed video podcasts on YouTube for monetisation reasons, not creator benefit
• Spotify requires opt-in for RSS distribution, creating discovery barriers
• Platforms can change algorithms overnight, affecting reach

The Value of Audio-First Content

• 91% of surveyed podcasters believe spoken word audio should be championed alongside video
• Audio provides escape from screen time and fits seamlessly into daily activities
• Podcasting originally succeeded as an antidote to screen addiction
• Long-form, relationship-building content vs. addictive 6-second hook culture

AI and Workflow Tools

• ChatGPT valuable for idea generation and content planning, not wholesale content creation
• Adobe Enhance effective for audio cleanup
• AI clipping tools not yet reliable for video editing
• Canva increasingly useful for quick design and video creation

Equipment and Setup

• Many experienced podcasters stick with reliable, familiar gear for years
• Wireless lavalier mics making location recording less intimidating for guests
• AI audio cleanup tools reducing need for perfect recording environments

Industry Complexity

• Podcasting has become significantly more complex compared to simpler early days
• Multiple platform considerations creating workflow complications
• Need to balance innovation with accessibility for new creators