Turning Conversations into Content

Podcasts are no longer confined to the realms of audio. Over the past three years, video podcast production has exploded, increasing by 64% globally. 

Video adds much needed context for audiences, fostering connection by inviting them to see both the hosts’ and guests’ reactions, expressions and emotions. 

At digiio, video podcasts are one of our specialities. Here, we break down how to elevate your podcast, turning it from a simple audio conversation into an engaging video worth sharing. 

Plan for success 

Before grabbing the camera, it's crucial to plan your video podcast. This will ensure you strike the right chord with viewers, creating content that’s not only impactful but also enjoyable. 

Follow these steps: 

1. Identify your target audience: who are you trying to reach? Which platform is best for reaching them? Are you aiming to educate, drive awareness or simply entertain? 

2. Choose a topic: once you’ve defined your audience, choose a topic that’ll resonate with them. This might be a pain point, unique take, educational piece or trending topic.  

3. Pick a format: the most common formats for video podcasts are interview-based, solo, co-hosted or panel. An interview or panel format is ideal for gaining insights from expert guests, but if your hosts have the expertise to carry the show themselves, you might consider a solo or co-hosted format instead. 

4. Build a structure: whether you have guests or not, your hosts will need a structure to ensure everything stays on-topic. This can be through clearly defined questions, a list of key themes, or simple prompts to keep discussions tight. 

5. Strike the right tone: make sure the tone is consistent and appropriate, aligning with your brand and subject matter. For example, will it be upbeat, funny and casual? Or reflective, formal and professional?  

6. Create an aesthetic: in much the same way as above, think about the auditory and visual elements e.g. intro/outro jingle, graphics, set and colour scheme. And don’t forget to create a catchy name for your podcast series that’ll entice people to watch. 

   
   

Lights, camera, action! 

So, you’ve planned everything from your topic to the guests, and you’re ready to capture your podcast on camera. But how exactly do you do this to ensure a quality, engaging piece? 

Here’s a few tips: 

• Set the scene: it might sound obvious but choose a quiet space with minimal echo and distractions to limit background noise and maximise focus. Soft furnishings can help to absorb sound and again, think about the aesthetic – what will be in the frame? Will you have props and a backdrop reflecting your brand colours? 

• Use the right equipment: at minimum, this includes USB or XLR microphones, a DSLR or other high-resolution camera, softbox or ring lighting, headphones to monitor audio, and a tripod to keep your camera stable and focused on the action. You might also consider having a multi-camera setup to capture different angles and liven things up. 

• Record audio separately: this’ll enhance quality and improve syncing, giving you more control and flexibility in post-production. 

• Keep the cameras rolling: recording the entire podcast end-to-end makes post-production easier, with just one file to edit. It also enhances authenticity, allowing you to capture the entire conversation. Plus, bloopers make great bonus content for promotion! 

Refining and editing 

For a polished final piece, editing is essential. This can be tricky without the right expertise and tools, but here’s what you need to know: 

• Editing software: this is where you’ll upload, sync and trim your footage and audio. There are lots of tools on the market, but Final Cut Pro, Adobe Premiere Pro and DaVinci Resolve Studio are all good options. 

• What to cut: pay attention to both the audio and visual elements and cut any background noise, awkward pauses, filler words, mistakes, technical blips and anything off-topic that impacts the focus of your video. 

• Special effects: add your intro/outro jingle and consider branding, transitions and sound effects. There’s no need to go overboard here - unless that fits the tone and aesthetic of your podcast. 

• Export in high resolution: once you’re happy with your final cut, remember that video looks best in high res on hosting platforms and social media channels. Export in 1080p (Full HD) or go even further with 4K. 

Promoting and reaching your audience 

The time has come to get your video podcast out there! This type of content is perfect for social media and email marketing – anywhere that puts you in direct contact with your audience. 

Here’s how to ensure maximum reach: 

• Choose a hosting platform: first things first, you’ll need to publish your podcast on a platform such as YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts or Vimeo. 

• Design a thumbnail: this acts as cover art, promoting your episode with a title, image of the host and guest, and other eye-catching graphics to attract clicks. 

• Repurpose with clips: a crucial aspect of video podcast promotion is to create short clips or trailers from your footage to tease viewers, encouraging them to watch the full episode. For example, you can create clips featuring highlights, behind-the-scenes, setup tours, bloopers or bonus content. This’ll drive engagement, adding warmth and a personal touch to your brand. 

• Publish to social media: post your clips or trailer to relevant social media channels - wherever your target audience is likely to be. For example, choose LinkedIn to reach viewers in the corporate, B2B space, or Instagram and TikTok for a B2C or younger crowd. Use hashtags to extend your reach and tag guest speakers to encourage shares.  

• Engage with your audience: make sure you’re part of the conversation by responding to comments on your social channels, building trust and engagement.

How digiio can help 

At digiio, we bring video podcasts to life, transforming your conversation into professional, polished content that delivers insights for your audience. 

Our film and editing team will work alongside you from concept through to filming and final cut, creating a high-quality podcast that engages viewers and leaves them wanting more. 

Ready to shoot your video podcast? See how we can help: https://www.digiio.com/services