Have ‘Best Practices’ Hurt Podcasting?

Podcasting has seen an astronomical popularity over the last decade, transforming from a niche hobby into a mainstream media powerhouse. With thousands of new shows launching every year, podcasters have turned to established best practices to ensure their content stands out. Yet, this adherence to a set of “golden rules” raises an important question: Have these best practices made podcasting boring?

The Problem of Boringness

Music Monotony

One of the first casualties of the formulaic approach to podcasting is music. Many podcasters opt for safe, royalty-free tunes, prioritizing legality and cost-effectiveness over uniqueness and emotional resonance. This reliance on generic background music fails to distinguish the podcast and misses a critical opportunity to set the tone and engage listeners on a deeper level.

Vocal Limitations

Voice modulation to achieve a neutral, universally appealing sound is another area where creativity suffers. This trend prioritizes a polished, professional delivery over the authentic quirks and personality traits that make hosts relatable. The result? A sea of podcasts where hosts sound eerily similar, stripping away the personal touch that could have forged a stronger connection with the audience.

Structural Sameness

The typical podcast format—intro, content, ad break, more content, outro—has become predictably formulaic. While efficient for conveying information and accommodating sponsorship deals, this structure often does little to surprise or engage the listener. The predictability can dull the listener’s experience, making them less likely to stay engaged or look forward to future episodes.

The Case for Creativity

Creativity is not just a luxury in content creation; it’s a necessity. It differentiates your podcast in a crowded market and builds a deeper connection with your audience. Individuality in podcasting, from unique storytelling techniques to personalized engagement strategies, can be a critical factor in cultivating a dedicated listener base.

A Call for Trend-Bucking

The encouragement to innovate and buck trends is a call to action for podcasters to experiment with their formats and production. Embracing content creation’s messy, chaotic, and human aspects leads to more authentic and engaging podcasts. This doesn’t mean abandoning all structure or quality standards but rather integrating the unique, unpolished elements of human expression that resonate with listeners personally.

Examples of Successful Rule-Breaking Podcasts

Innovative podcasts that defy conventional norms offer valuable lessons. Shows incorporating live music, unscripted conversations, or non-linear storytelling often create more memorable and engaging listening experiences. These podcasts stand out not just for their content but for their willingness to experiment and take risks.

How to Experiment Responsibly

Experimenting with your podcast doesn’t mean throwing caution to the wind. It’s about finding the right balance between innovation and maintaining the quality your audience expects. Start small with changes to segments or incorporate listener feedback in real time.

Conclusion

The evolution of podcasting relies on the willingness of creators to push boundaries and embrace creativity. While best practices offer a roadmap to success, they shouldn’t be constraints stifling innovation. By daring to be different and prioritizing what makes your podcast uniquely engaging, you can carve out a niche that stands out and deeply resonates with your audience. Let’s not let podcasting become boring. Instead, let’s infuse it with the creativity and passion it deserves.