We’re speakers, right? We want to get the word out to our audiences about how what we talk about can help them. Have you explored ways other than your speaking to do this?

Maybe you blog, are active on social media, and write a recurring newsletter. You probably listen to podcasts. However, have you ever thought about starting a speaker podcast? It is not as complicated as you think.

The success of a speaker podcast often depends on engaging content and effective Communication. Below are three things for you to consider for your speaker podcast:

Clear Theme and Purpose

Define a clear theme or speaking niche for the podcast. This could be a specific topic, industry, or genre that aligns with your speaking expertise and interests.

Clearly communicate the purpose of the podcast to the audience. Listeners should know what to expect and why they should tune in. Your podcast’s purpose could include educating, entertaining, inspiring, or a combination.

When establishing a clear theme and purpose for a speaker podcast, it’s crucial to focus on elements that define the podcast’s identity and attract a specific audience.

Here are three items for you to consider concerning a clear theme and purpose:

• Identify Your Niche or Focus: – Clearly define the specific topic or niche that your podcast will cover. This could be a particular industry, a subject area within a broader field, or a unique perspective on a common theme. Narrow your focus to ensure your podcast stands out in a crowded space.

• Define the Purpose and Goals: – Clearly articulate the purpose of your podcast. Ask yourself why you are creating it and what you hope to achieve. This could include educating your audience, sharing insights, entertaining, or advocating for a cause.

• Understand Your Target Audience: Identify and understand your target audience. Who are you speaking to, and what are their interests, needs, and preferences? Tailor your content to resonate with this specific demographic.

By honing in on a specific speaking niche, defining a clear purpose, and understanding your audience, you’ll create a podcast that stands out and appeals to the right listeners.

This clarity will help you create content and make it easier for potential listeners to understand what your podcast is about and why they should tune in.

Establishing a clear theme and purpose is necessary but not sufficient. You also need engaging content and format.

Engaging Content and Format

Plan and structure episodes in a way that keeps the audience engaged. This could involve storytelling, interviews, discussions, or a mix of formats.

Develop high-quality and relevant content. Research topics thoroughly, provide valuable insights, and offer a unique perspective to keep listeners returning.

Consider the length of the episodes. Some audiences prefer short, bite-sized content, while others enjoy longer, in-depth discussions. Consistency in episode length can also help set expectations.

Below are three things to consider for achieving engaging content and establishing a consistent format:

• Diverse and Dynamic Content: – Cover a range of topics within your speaking niche to keep content fresh and appeal to a broader audience. Bring in diverse perspectives and invite guests who can offer different insights.

• Interactive and Engaging Format: – Incorporate storytelling into your episodes to make your content more relatable and memorable. Personal anecdotes, case studies, and real-life examples can captivate your audience.

• Consistent Format and Structure: – Establish a consistent structure for your episodes. This might include an introduction, main content, and a conclusion. Consistency helps create a familiar experience for listeners. Consider the ideal length for your episodes based on your audience’s preferences.

By incorporating diverse and dynamic content, using engaging formats, and maintaining a consistent structure, you can create a podcast that captures and sustains the interest of your audience. Experiment with different approaches to find what works best for your style and resonates with your listeners.

Establishing a clear theme and purpose and creating engaging content and format are necessary but still insufficient. You also need to connect with your audience.

Connection with Your Audience

Building a strong connection with your audience is crucial for the success and sustainability of your speaker podcast.

Interact with the audience through various channels, such as social media, email, or live events. Encourage feedback, questions, and suggestions to create a sense of community.

Be authentic and relatable. Share personal experiences, challenges, and successes to build a connection with your audience.

Consistency is key. Release episodes regularly and stick to a schedule. This helps build trust with the audience and keeps them anticipating new content.

The most successful podcasts often strike a balance between a clear structure, engaging content, and a strong connection with the audience.

Here are three items to consider for fostering a meaningful connection:

• Interactivity and Engagement: – Actively involve your audience by encouraging them to share their thoughts, questions, and feedback. You can do this through social media, email, or dedicated segments in your podcast. Create content that invites engagement. This could include polls, surveys, or challenges that listeners can participate in.

• Authenticity and Relatability: – Open up about your experiences, challenges, and successes. Sharing personal stories adds authenticity and makes you more relatable to your audience. Be transparent about your podcasting journey, including any behind-the-scenes aspects.

• Consistent Communication: – Establish consistent communication channels, such as a newsletter or social media updates, to keep your audience informed about upcoming episodes, events, or relevant news. Actively listen to and respond to audience feedback.

Building a connection with your audience is an ongoing process. You can cultivate a dedicated and engaged community around your podcast by prioritizing interactivity, being authentic and relatable, and maintaining consistent Communication.

Establishing a clear theme and purpose, creating engaging content and format, and creating a connection with your audience are all necessary for a successful podcast.

Go forth and podcast!

Call to Action

When designing your speaker podcast:

• Establish a clear theme and purpose

• Create engaging content and format

• Create a solid connection with your audience

  
  

  “The beauty of podcasting is that it allows you to share your voice and your message with a global audience.”

  – Pat Flynn, podcaster and modern-day philosopher _____________________________

  Frank DiBartolomeo is a retired U.S. Air Force Lieutenant Colonel and award-winning speaker, presentation and interview skills coach, and Professional Member of the National Speakers Association. He was awarded Toastmasters International’s highest individual award, Distinguished Toastmaster because of his outstanding work in public speaking and leadership.

  Frank formed DiBartolomeo Consulting International (DCI), LLC (www.speakleadandsucceed.com) in 2007. The mission of DCI is to help technical professionals to inspire, motivate, and influence their colleagues and other technical professionals by improving their presentation skills, communication, and personal presence. Reach Frank at frank@speakleadandsucceed.com and (703) 509-4424.

  
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  Don’t miss Frank DiBartolomeo’s latest book!

  “Speak Well and Prosper: Tips, Tools, and Techniques for Better Presentations”

  

  Available now at Amazon.com and BarnesandNoble.com