Audio or Video Podcast: How To Split The Difference

It’s one of the hardest questions when you start a podcast.  Should I do video, or just audio?  Well, I think I’ve found a way to split the difference.

I was helping a new client launch a podcast this week, and we were talking, as is often the case, about audio versus video.   In a perfect world, we’d all have a video team of several people who can put together something that would make Steven Spielberg proud.   But the cost of that – in terms of money AND time – don’t make it possible for most of us.

Also, the hardest part of starting a podcast is AFDI – Actually (hmm) Doing It.   The barrier to entry in podcasting is low, and we want to keep it that way.  We don’t want someone MORE scared of getting into the space.  Trust me, as an ex radio guy – it’s a lot easier to SOUND good than to LOOK good.

However - online video, particularly short-form video, has exploded in the last couple of years.   And Reels are helping with podcast discoverability.   And with our goldfish attention spans – you probably need a more compelling visual than a moving waveform and static image of your podcast artwork.

So here’s how to get the best of both worlds.  RECORD video of your podcast interview.  You can do this with any remote recording software, like Squadcast, Riverside….even Zoom.Or, if you’re in person, use your smartphone.   You’re still doing an audio podcast, but you now have all the video footage.  Grab some 30 second clips of your guest saying something great – and use a service like Descript or Headliner to make eye catching captions, and throw it up on Tik Tok, YouTube Shorts, Facebook and Instagram Reels, you name it.  Then link back to, or promote the actual podcast.

Knowing you’re only going to take very short clips can take some of the pressure off of video – you don’t need to make eye contact with the camera at all times, the lighting doesn’t have to be perfect, and your hair doesn’t either.    It’s much easier to have TOO MUCH content, than NOT ENOUGH.  So, provided your guest consents to being filmed, grab the video to use, repurpose, and promote your show later.

As always, no matter what you budget, video or audio only, if you need help with a podcast, you can find me at jagindetroit.com.  Lata!

Find jag on social media @JAGinDetroit or online at JAGinDetroit.com