Successful Podcasting

Based on the assigned readings for this week’s class and last week’s discussion, Anna Farmery’s podcasts are spot on.  In addition to producing content that I find interesting, she follows a formula that makes for successful podcasting.  Before disecting her podcasting technique, let’s take a look at her blog – The Engaging Brand. 

On Anna’s site, you will see that she also provides supporting blog posts that she ties in to the overall theme.  If you listen to her shows, you will notice that her writing has a similar tone as her podcasting.  Each podcast blog post is introduced with and closed with the same information about how to get/listen to the show.  The middle of these posts consists of content that highlights the topic of the show, who her interview guest is and why they are relevant.  She also provides links to the guest’s blog, book or other relevant site.  Now, on to the actual podcasts…

Here’s why The Engaging Brand podcasts are successful:

1. Definite introduction, main content and signoff - The introduction to each show explains who she is and the purpose of The Engaging Brand podcast.  The main content is the interview.  The closing has info on how she can be contacted and her personal quote.  There is also music in the background of the intro and signoff that adds to the tone of the show.   

2.  Consistent voice - Topics are consistent with the overall purpose of the site and audience interests.  Anna also comes off as genuine and honest, exposing her own flaws in the discussion.  The conversation with her guest sounds natural because she does not edit out short pauses or “ums.”  She also laughs and has fun, which makes it fun to listen to.   

3.  Show format – Weekly shows and always in an interview format.  The interviews are interesting and discussion is relevant.  Anna asks great questions because she familiarizes herself with the guest and subject.  The recording devices are clear, even though the guests are usually in another location.   

4.  Addresses audience – Anna encourages her audience to provide feedback and become part of the conversation on the blog.  She also always asks her guest to provide a way for the audience to contact them.   

5.  Acknowledges sponsor – Explains what the product is and the call to action. 

The only critque I have is that sometimes it sounds like she goes into the next question too quickly.  More specifically, the pause between the end of the guest’s answer and her next question is too short.  This may be due to the time constraint, keeping the shows between 25-35 minutes.