Podcasts have taken off like not many may have predicted in the early days. The invention of the iPod revolutionized how we enjoyed audio, and its early design allowed people to download podcasts and listen to them on the go. However, the explosion of smartphone technology and constant internet access has allowed for the evolution of podcasting into today's enormous industry.
Nevertheless, there would not have been such a podcasting boom without great content. Shows like This American Life and Malcom Gladwell's Revisionist History expanded the realm of what a podcast could be.
Now, you can find a podcast on anything imaginable, with notable networks, and even radio stations dipping their toes into the medium. With such a saturated market, it may be confusing what you should center your content around, but here are some tips that might help.
Niche Sports/Specialize in One Sport
Like with conventional or television media, the sports market in the podcast sphere is heavily congested. Everybody and their brother want to talk about major sports like football, basketball, and soccer, notably sports shows like The Bill Simmons Podcast, Pardon My Take, and First Take, all focusing on the most popular storyline.
However, you're more likely to attract hardcore fans if you focus on a sport that may be more niche or concentrate on a single one, like cricket. You could discuss everything from scores to storylines, injuries, teams, players, or even betting odds. If you were discussing the test match on Friday, June 10th, you could mention betting India Betway, for example, as it has England favored at +100 over New Zealand at +187 as a way to integrate fans who enjoy placing a wager while they watch.
While mentioning the odds, you could discuss the line-ups and who was selected to be part of each squad because they are usually hotly debated topics. Also, storylines play a huge role in sports; while hosting, you could talk about the rivalry and what a win would mean to each nation.
Of course, these tips aren't merely applicable to cricket and can be transferable to any sport. For snooker, you could talk about the Guardian Ronnie O'Sullivan coverage about his latest triumph or how what Conor McGregor's return would mean for the UFC. Having a podcast to give a platform to sports fans who don't always feel they have one is a great way to gain traction as a starting podcast.
General Life/Humour
This tip may only help if you already have a base following. Those who may not be really famous but are a social media influencer or have been in the public eye attract interest from their fans. Generally, they may not be an expert in a particular field or be known for any specific skill, but their overall demeanor, personality, or humor is what people find captivating. You can find through TechUseful's influencer guide.
What seems to be a popular podcast for this particular set of individuals is a podcast that centers around their general life and includes humorous instances. If you have an enchanting personality, people will enjoy hearing you tell stories about your everyday activities, as long as it is told in a storytelling manner. Guests can appear to keep things interesting, but you may be able to garner enough of a following due to your funny anecdotes and shocking revelations.
HotBod's podcast article explains that they are usually listened to passively and even when a person is doing a mundane task to keep them occupied; somewhat like having a one-sided conversation with a friend where all you have to do is listen. To create this conversational atmosphere, you could maybe try the Blue Yeti Microphone as a basis for comparison. Nonetheless, it's recommended for someone who seems to attract public interest from their personality alone.
History
One subject that will always be fascinating is history. As people, we are always destined to repeat ourselves, as is human nature. History can teach us valuable lessons about who we are and why the world is in the shape it is currently. However, you don't want to make history boring because it is anything but that. Although it may have a rep for being dull, you begin to realize how interesting the subject is, especially if it is relevant to your interests.
You could make it about anything, but you'd need to learn more about setting up a podcast and it must be unique in some way. It could be about art history, the greeks, sports, a particular nation, a movement, or a moment in time that needs an extended examination. Whatever it is, you must be knowledgeable about it, so that listeners know that they can trust you. You could also think of unique perspectives or make exciting connections that you could only assume because the facts aren't all there.
These are some suggestions on what to base your podcast around. However, it needs to be something you are passionate about, whatever that may be. It will be palpable to the listener, and your natural charisma and charm will shine through.
