Podcast Setup: How to Create a Video Podcast

If you've been thinking about elevating your podcast game, there's never been a better time to add visual elements to your audio content.

Did you know YouTube is now outperforming traditional podcast giants like Spotify and Apple as the preferred platform for podcast consumption? With over 4 million podcasts and more than 151 million podcast episodes already competing for attention, creating a video podcast might be your best strategy to stand out in this crowded space. 

But what exactly is a video podcast? In its simplest form, a video podcast is an audio podcast with added visual elements. Video podcasts build upon the traditional audio experience, creating deeper connections with your audience and opening up exciting new possibilities for content creation and distribution.

Below, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about creating a compelling video podcast. Let's dive in!

Understanding the Benefits of Video Podcasting

We've seen firsthand how adding visual elements to podcasts can transform audience engagement and create new opportunities for growth.

One of the most significant benefits is expanded audience reach. By creating video podcasts, you're no longer limited to audio-only platforms. Your content can now thrive on video-centric platforms like YouTube, which has over 2.7 billion users worldwide. 

Enhanced audience engagement is another compelling reason to embrace video podcasting. Humans are primarily visual creatures, and we process visual information much more efficiently than audio alone. When your audience can see your facial expressions, body language, and the interaction between hosts and guests, they form stronger connections with your content. 

And, it’s worth noting that video content induces higher levels of trust compared to audio-only formats. This increased trust translates directly into stronger audience loyalty and higher retention rates. 

Monetization opportunities also expand significantly with video podcasting. Beyond traditional podcast sponsorships, you can now access video ad revenue, create membership tiers with exclusive video content, and develop more valuable sponsorship packages that include visual brand integration. The visual format makes it easier to showcase products, demonstrate services, and include promotional elements that simply wouldn't work in an audio-only environment. 

The repurposing potential of video podcasts is particularly exciting for content creators. From one recording session, you can extract numerous content pieces: the full video podcast, the audio-only version, short clips for social media, audiograms, quote images, and more. This content multiplication effect maximizes your return on the time invested in recording each episode. 

Finally, video podcasts offer substantial SEO benefits. YouTube is the world's second-largest search engine, and having your content discoverable there can significantly increase your podcast's visibility. Video content also tends to rank well in Google search, especially when optimized with proper titles, descriptions, and timestamps.

Planning Your Video Podcast Strategy

Before you rush to purchase equipment or start recording, we strongly recommend developing a clear strategy for your video podcast. Taking the time to plan properly will save you countless headaches down the road and help ensure your podcast connects with your target audience. 

Just like with starting an audio only podcast, it’s best to begin with defining your video podcast concept.

– What topic/niche will you focus on?

– Who is your ideal listener/viewer?

– What unique perspective or value can you offer that differentiates your show from others?

Research existing video podcasts in your niche to understand what's working well and identify gaps you might fill. Remember that the most successful podcasts typically have a clearly defined focus rather than trying to appeal to everyone. 

Your visual brand identity deserves serious consideration. Unlike audio-only podcasts, your video podcast's visual elements will communicate volumes about your brand before a viewer even clicks play. 

We recommend you develop a consistent visual style that reflects your podcast's personality and resonates with your target audience. This includes your logo, color scheme, typography, set design, and even how you and your co-hosts dress on camera. Consistency in these visual elements helps build recognition and establishes professionalism. 

Think carefully about your format and episode structure as well. 

– Will you feature interviews with guests, have conversations between co-hosts, or present solo content?

– Will you incorporate B-roll footage, screen sharing, or other visual elements in your video podcast?

– Will you need special video editing software? 

Establishing a consistent format helps set viewer expectations and makes production more efficient. But, don't be afraid to experiment and evolve your format based on audience feedback and your own creative inspiration. 

Planning also extends to practical considerations like podcast recording schedules, guest coordination, and content calendars. We recommend creating templates for outreach emails, guest preparation guidelines, and episode outlines to streamline your workflow. 

Did you know Castmagic can help you with many of the elements needed for a podcast with video? Simply upload your current podcast audio and videos into our platform, and get a GPT instance for each podcast recording.

Then, using your own content, you can chat with our AI tool to script out future episodes, come up with new interview questions, draft emails to future guests, create pitches for guests and sponsors, and so much more. You can even ask the AI for YouTube thumbnail ideas based on your recordings!

Check out our tools that are perfect for video podcasts:

– Podcast Clip Generator 

– Podcast Newsletter Generator 

– YouTube Description Generator 

– YouTube Video Script Generator 

– Podcast Transcription 

Essential Equipment for Video Podcast Production

The good news about video podcast equipment is you don't need to break the bank to get started! While professional equipment will certainly enhance your production quality, many successful video podcast hosts began with basic setups and upgraded gradually as their audience grew. 

For video capture, your options range from the webcam built into your laptop to professional cinema cameras. 

If you're just starting out, a good quality webcam like the Logitech C920 or a smartphone with a decent camera can be perfectly adequate. 

As you grow, you might consider investing in a DSLR or mirrorless camera that offers better image quality, especially in less-than-ideal lighting conditions. 

The Canon EOS M50, Sony a6400, or Panasonic Lumix G7 are popular mid-range options that deliver excellent results for video podcasting.

Audio quality remains paramount even in a video podcast!

Poor audio will drive viewers and listeners away faster than less-than-perfect video. A good USB microphone like the Blue Yeti, Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB, or Rode NT-USB is a solid starting point.

As your podcast grows, you might want to upgrade to an XLR microphone setup with an audio interface, which offers superior sound quality and more control. 

Popular podcast microphones include the Shure SM7B, Rode PodMic, and Electro-Voice RE20, though these require an audio interface like the Focusrite Scarlett or Universal Audio Volt series.

Lighting makes an enormous difference in video quality!

Even the most expensive camera will produce poor results in bad lighting. A basic three-point lighting setup includes a key light (your main light source), a fill light (to reduce shadows), and a backlight (to separate you from the background). 

If your budget is limited, start with at least one good key light for your video podcast. Ring lights are popular for beginners because they provide flattering, even lighting and don't require much technical knowledge. As you advance, softbox lighting kits offer more professional results and greater control.

Don't forget about your recording space itself too. The visual background in your video podcast contributes significantly to your professional image. This doesn't mean you need an elaborate studio. A clean, uncluttered space can work wonderfully. 

Some podcasters use bookcases, plants, artwork, or branded backgrounds. Others opt for green screens that allow for digital backgrounds. Whatever you choose, ensure it aligns with your podcast's theme and doesn't distract from you/your content.

Related: How to Make a YouTube Video: 17 Tips for Beginners

Technical Setup for Video Podcasting

The technical setup for your video podcast might seem daunting at first, but breaking it down into manageable components makes it much more approachable. Here's the key elements you'll need to consider:

For camera configuration, start by selecting the appropriate resolution and frame rate. 

Full HD (1080p) at 30 frames per second is the current standard for most video podcasts, offering a good balance between quality and file size. If your equipment supports it, 4K resolution can provide more detail and flexibility in editing, though it requires more storage space and processing power. 

Pay attention to your camera's exposure settings, white balance, and focus. For most podcast setups, you'll want to use manual focus once your position is established to prevent the camera from hunting for focus during recording. 

Framing your shot properly is crucial for professional-looking results. Follow the rule of thirds by positioning yourself slightly off-center in the frame. 

Leave some headroom (space above your head) but not too much – a common mistake is positioning the camera too low, creating an unflattering angle. 

For interview-style podcasts, ensure all participants are properly framed and visible. If you're using multiple cameras, consider wide shots that show all participants and closeup shots for reactions and important moments. 

Your audio recording chain requires careful setup to ensure professional sound quality. Position microphones approximately 6-8 inches from the speaker's mouth and slightly off-axis to reduce plosives (popping 'p' and 'b' sounds). 

Pro Tip: Use pop filters for additional protection against plosives.

Monitor your audio levels before and during recording to ensure they're neither too low (resulting in noise when boosted later) nor too high (causing distortion). We strongly recommend recording a short test segment and listening back before committing to a full episode recording. 

Choosing the right video editing software ties your technical setup together. For recording, options range from simple solutions like OBS Studio (free and open-source) to more comprehensive platforms like Riverside.fm or Zencastr that offer high-quality remote recording capabilities. Though they might leave something to be desired when it's time for video editing.

For local video podcast recordings, software like Adobe Audition, Logic Pro, or Reaper can capture your audio while your camera records video separately (you'll sync them in editing). If you're recording remote guests, look for platforms specifically designed for podcast production that record local files for each participant rather than relying on internet quality.

Recording Your Video Podcast

When it's finally time to hit record, following some key best practices will help ensure your video podcast looks and sounds professional. The performance aspects of video podcasting require different considerations than audio-only formats.

On-camera presence takes practice, but a few fundamental principles can help you appear more confident and engaging from day one. Maintain natural eye contact with the camera when addressing your audience directly, or with your guest/co-host during conversations. 

Be mindful of your posture – sitting up straight projects confidence and authority. Use natural hand gestures to emphasize points, but avoid excessive movement that can be distracting. Smile genuinely when appropriate, as it creates an immediate connection with viewers. 

Dress appropriately for your podcast's theme and audience. While you don't necessarily need formal attire, your appearance should align with your content and the image you want to project.  

Avoid clothing with small patterns like tight stripes or checks, which can create a distracting moiré effect on camera. Solid colors generally work best, though extremely bright colors or pure white can cause exposure challenges. 

During recording, maintain awareness of both technical and performance elements. Have a system for monitoring audio levels and video framing without becoming distracted from your conversation. 

If you notice technical issues with your podcast equipment that can be fixed during recording, it's often worth briefly pausing to address them rather than creating problems you'll need to solve in your editing software. For longer recordings, take short breaks if needed to check equipment, refresh your energy, or reset if discussions have gone off track. 

For interview-based podcasts, prepare your guests for the video recording experience. Share guidance on camera positioning, lighting suggestions, and wardrobe considerations in advance. During the interview, be an active and engaged listener (i.e. nodding, maintaining eye contact, and providing verbal affirmations). 

These visual cues not only make your guest feel heard but also create a more engaging viewing experience. Consider having a pre-interview conversation to establish rapport and discuss the general direction of topics before hitting record.

Pro Tip: While recording interviews for your video podcast, pause and smile to snap freeze frames.

These freeze frames could become your YouTube thumbnail!

Editing Your Video Podcast for Maximum Impact

The editing process is where your raw recording transforms into a polished, professional production. While editing can range from minimal to extensive depending on your style and resources, even basic editing can significantly enhance your video podcast's quality. 

Start by organizing your footage and establishing a systematic workflow. Import all your video and audio files into your editing software of choice. Popular options include Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, DaVinci Resolve, or more accessible tools like Camtasia or CapCut. 

If you recorded audio and video separately, your first task will be synchronizing them – look for a distinctive sound (like a clap) at the beginning of your recording that creates a visible spike in the audio waveform to help with alignment. 

Basic editing for a video podcast typically involves cutting out any pre-show preparations, long pauses, technical issues, or tangents that don't add value. Be judicious with your cuts – some natural pauses and conversational rhythms should remain to keep the dialogue feeling authentic. Upload your intro and outro segments, including any standard branding elements, music, or graphics that appear in every episode.

Pro Tip: Only use music you have the rights to use.

The last thing you want is a YouTube/Spotify copyright strike! This could kill your podcast before you even have a chance to gain traction with your episodes.

Audio post-production remains essential even for video podcasts. Balance levels between different speakers, apply gentle compression to even out volume fluctuations, and use equalization to enhance vocal clarity. 

Remove background noise, um's, and other distractions when necessary, but be careful not to over-edit to the point where conversations sound unnatural. Ensure your final audio has appropriate loudness levels for your distribution platforms – approximately -14 LUFS for YouTube and most video podcast hosting platforms.

Visual enhancements can take your video podcast episodes to the next level. When video editing, consider adding lower-third graphics to identify speakers, incorporating relevant images or video clips to illustrate points, and using simple transitions between segments. 

If appropriate for your podcast recording, you might include elements like screen sharing, slides, and B-roll footage.

Color correction can also improve the overall look of your video podcast episodes, creating consistency between cameras or compensating for lighting limitations. 

Before finalizing your edit in your video podcast software, create compelling thumbnails for YouTube and preview clips that will drive clicks and engagement. Your thumbnail should clearly communicate what the episode is about and feature recognizable elements like your logo, host faces, or guest images. Preview clips should highlight intriguing moments that make viewers want to watch the full podcast episode.

Publishing and Distributing Your Video Podcast

With your edited video podcast ready to go, it's time to share it with the world! A comprehensive distribution strategy ensures your content reaches the widest possible audience across multiple platforms. 

YouTube Music (aka YouTube Podcasts) remains the premier platform for video podcast distribution, offering unmatched discoverability and audience potential. Create a dedicated channel for your podcast with consistent branding, organized playlists for different topics or seasons, and complete profile information. 

When uploading episodes, optimize your titles, descriptions, and tags for search. Include relevant keywords, a detailed episode summary, links to your website and social profiles, and timestamps for major topics discussed. YouTube chapters (created by adding timestamps to your description) make your content more navigable and user-friendly. Remember - Castmagic can help you make quick work of these tasks thanks to our AI tools. 

While video is your new focus, don't abandon traditional podcast directories! Extract the audio from your video and distribute it to platforms like Apple Podcasts and Spotify for Creators. 

You’ll also need a podcast hosting service like Libsyn, Buzzsprout, or Transistor to host the audio only versions of your podcast to distribute to directories like Amazon Music, Deezer, and iHeartRadio. This is important because many listeners still prefer consuming podcasts in audio-only format during commutes, workouts, or other activities where watching isn't practical. 

Social media platforms offer additional distribution opportunities. Upload native video clips (rather than just links) to platforms like Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and Facebook to maximize engagement. Each platform has different optimal video lengths and formats—TikTok and Instagram Reels favor very short clips (15-60 seconds), while Facebook can accommodate longer segments. Tailor your approach to each platform's strengths rather than posting identical content everywhere.

Related: Learn How to Get More Listeners on Spotify.

Consider additional podcast distribution channels that align with your audience and content type as well. LinkedIn can be excellent for business or professional-focused podcasts to find more listeners, while Reddit communities might be appropriate for podcast hosts of other niche topics. If your content includes visual demonstrations or tutorials, platforms like Pinterest might drive significant traffic. Wherever you distribute your content, ensure you're following platform-specific best practices and community guidelines.

It’s Time to Start Your Podcast with Video!

Creating a video podcast might seem like a substantial undertaking, but the potential rewards make it well worth the effort. We've covered a lot of ground in this guide, from understanding the fundamental benefits of video podcasting to podcast equipment and mastering the technical aspects of production and promotion. Your video podcast doesn't need to be perfect from day one though. Many successful podcasters started with basic equipment and podcast software, and refined their approach over time. 

The most important factor in podcast success for all creators isn't fancy gear, format, or perfect technique – it's upload consistency. Commit to a regular podcast publishing schedule that you can realistically maintain, and focus on continuously improving your content and production quality. Listen to your audience feedback, analyze your performance metrics, and be willing to experiment and evolve. 

And, don’t forget to use tools like Castmagic that make your job as a video podcaster easier. Want to try Castmagic for free? Click here to get started today!