Are We Overcomplicating Podcasting?

Podcasting isn’t easy, but it doesn’t have to be complicated.

Figuring out who you want to reach and how you’ll serve them is hard work, but it’s the kind that truly moves the needle.

In 2025, we risk losing sight of that north star. Too often, clarity is traded for trends, and purpose is swapped for perceived expectations. Stay focused. The best podcasts still begin by serving real people, not chasing the algorithm.

On this episode, I'm joined by Rachel Corbett, who brings a wealth of podcasting experience to the table. We discuss some recent data collected through regular polls in our Podcraft Pointers newsletter. Then, we catch up on the latest tools, tactics, and techniques that are working well for us right now.

Key Talking Points

The "Podcasting" Name Debate

83% of surveyed indie podcasters believe the term "podcast" hasn't outlived its usefulnessIndustry voices with big profiles are pushing for rebranding, but thousands of creators prefer keeping the termComparison made to radio shows that also stream video - they don't stop being called "radio shows"Major platforms (YouTube, Spotify, Apple, CNN) still use the term "podcast"

Video vs. Audio-Only Content

Many new podcasters feel overwhelmed by video expectations and delay starting their showsVideo doubles workflow time and adds technical complexity (lighting, makeup, outfit changes for batch recording)Consistency matters more than video for podcast successRisk of creative monoculture - video favours simple chat show formats over inventive audio formats like dramas and documentaries

Monetisation Challenges with Video

Dynamic ad serving (industry standard) doesn't work on YouTube or Spotify's cached video feedsForces return to baked-in ads, creating same problems the industry solved years agoCuts off major monetisation channels for creators heavily dependent on Spotify

Platform Control Issues

Google pushed video podcasts on YouTube for monetisation reasons, not creator benefitSpotify requires opt-in for RSS distribution, creating discovery barriersPlatforms can change algorithms overnight, affecting reach

The Value of Audio-First Content

91% of surveyed podcasters believe spoken word audio should be championed alongside videoAudio provides escape from screen time and fits seamlessly into daily activitiesPodcasting originally succeeded as an antidote to screen addictionLong-form, relationship-building content vs. addictive 6-second hook culture

AI and Workflow Tools

ChatGPT valuable for idea generation and content planning, not wholesale content creationAdobe Enhance effective for audio cleanupAI clipping tools not yet reliable for video editingCanva increasingly useful for quick design and video creation

Equipment and Setup

Many experienced podcasters stick with reliable, familiar gear for yearsWireless lavalier mics making location recording less intimidating for guestsAI audio cleanup tools reducing need for perfect recording environments

Industry Complexity

Podcasting has become significantly more complex compared to simpler early daysMultiple platform considerations creating workflow complicationsNeed to balance innovation with accessibility for new creators