What are video podcasts

The very term "video podcasts" seems to be an oxymoron, as podcasts started as a solely audial format. Still, modern content consumers tend to prefer visuals over soundtracks, even if the footage isn't really meaningful or important.

Podcasts with video meet these requirements while still focusing on the audio part. This way, one can listen to them on the go, while doing household chores, or falling asleep, just as a "traditional" podcast, without losing any essential information, as the video part contains none. On the other hand, if one feels more comfortable having something to look at, a video podcast makes it possible.

Why are video podcasts on the rise

There are several types of video podcasts, and each of them adds something to the listening experience.

  1. Static picture or audiogram. Listeners can fall into a state of relaxation, close to meditation.
  2. Subtitles on a chosen background. Some users find it easier to comprehend the text if they can read it, especially if the podcast is in a foreign language.
  3. "Talking heads". If the speakers were recorded in different locations, not in the same studio, the shooting can present their "talking heads". For some listeners, it may be important to know what the speakers look like, as it increases the podcast's credibility.
  4. Studio shooting. The speakers discuss the topic in the same studio and the listeners feel like a part of this group. Such a "homey" video doesn't really add any information to the podcast but creates an atmosphere of trust and intimacy.

Key features to look for in a video podcast platform

Since video is generally more engaging than just audio, many podcast hosts opt to produce video podcasts and share them on suitable platforms. If you're looking for a place to share your talks as well, consider these points.

First of all, pay attention to the technical characteristics, such as bandwidth, provided storage (especially for free accounts, if there are any), user-friendliness, etc.

Then (and this is important!), podcast hosting platforms should allow creating and managing RSS (Really Simple Syndication) feeds. It's an XML file that contains all the information about each episode or issue. If you have one, you can distribute it to various platforms, such as Apple Podcasts or Spotify, and your subscribers will be notified immediately about each update.

If you intend to earn on your podcast, or at least become famous and popular, analytics tools will also come in handy. It would be nice to have metrics, statistics, and other performance data on a regular basis.

We hope you will never need to contact support, but if you do, it would be great to have such an opportunity 24/7, preferably via direct email or a phone number, not just a chatbot or a contact form. Even worse, if there is no support at all, just FAQs, which never explain your exact situation.

Last but not least, price and payment options. Only you know your budget and what payment options or plans are the most convenient for you, so there are no recommendations here — just a point to pay attention to.

Best platforms for video podcasts

These platforms could serve as excellent venues to host your video podcasts.

YouTube

However hackneyed it is, YouTube remains the video platform number one. No wonder it keeps up with modern tendencies, which results in a side project called YouTube Podcasts. With more than 2 billion active users, this resource offers incomparable possibilities for both hosts and listeners. On the other hand, the competition is also high, so the project may not pay out as soon as you would like it to.

Advantages

  • Broad audience coverage.
  • Advanced analytic tools.
  • Various monetization options.

Disadvantages

  • Lack of RSS feed.
  • High competition.

Podbean

Podbean has been one of the major players in this field for at least 9 years. It's one of the biggest podcast platforms, where one can find both video podcasts and "classical" audio channels. That's a great service for inexperienced hosts, as it features built-in recording and editing tools. Versatile subscription plans and optimization options make it especially popular.

Advantages

  • User-friendly and intuitively comprehensive interface.
  • Available both in a browser and as a mobile application.
  • Live-streaming option (only for audio).

Disadvantages

  • Input formats are limited to MP3, MP4 and M4A.
  • The recording function is available only in the mobile app.

Spotify for podcasters

While Spotify is known as an audio platform, its "offspring" Spotify for Podcasters is an integration of audio and video. It's a free platform with user-friendly navigation, advanced analytical tools, and versatile monetization options.

Advantages

  • Supports RSS feed.
  • Audience engagement tools, such as comments, polls, etc.
  • Distribution to other platforms (though not automatic).

Disadvantages

  • Relatively poor customization.
  • Video can't be uploaded via the app, only in a web version.

Libsyn

Libsyn is almost as popular as Podbean, but for one quite important difference: it doesn't offer any free plan, and the cheapest one starts at $7 monthly. The platform is integrated with YouTube. Not only can it publish your podcast automatically, but it can also create a visual for it.

Advantages

  • Advanced analytical and monetization tools.
  • Worldwide audience.
  • Advanced customization options.

Disadvantages

  • Limited monthly uploads (depending on the subscription).
  • No recording and editing tools (you'll have to use third-party video editors).

Castos

Castos is one of the most advanced and the most expensive platforms. It features YouTube podcast publishing (an audio track with your channel icon), other integrations, advanced customization options, and inbuilt AI tools.

Advantages

  • Podcast WordPress plugin
  • Seamless integration with other platforms.

Disadvantages

  • Expensive subscriptions for video podcasters.
  • Limited advertising options.

Vimeo

Vimeo is one of the best-known YouTube alternatives. It's a video platform with advanced customization tools and high-quality recordings. However, the service is not tailored for video podcasts. It isn't integrated with other platforms and is focused on the visual part of the project.

Advantages

  • Various monetization options.
  • High-quality video.

Disadvantages

  • No RSS feed.
  • Relatively small audience.

Wistia

Wistia is mostly tailored for commercial projects aiming to earn money. It supports podcast distribution to other platforms and features expanded functionality, advanced analytical tools, and SEO options.

Advantages

  • Highly professional customer support.
  • Free plan (with limited functionality, though).

Disadvantages

  • Poor promotion options.
  • Expensive paid plans.

FAQs

What are video podcasts?

Video podcasts are "traditional" podcasts with a visual element. The focus is still on a voice-over, so a listener can ignore the video part, as it doesn’t add any informational value but rather an aesthetic one.

What is the ideal platform for beginners to host a video podcast?

YouTube or other popular platforms that run long enough have an expanded audience, advanced tools, user-friendly interface, and customer support. As for the question "Where to watch video podcasts?" it mostly depends on the topic you are interested in, but YouTube will be one of the first choices as well.

Is it possible to monetize video podcasts?

You bet! Many platforms offer specialized tools for that, as well as options for better user engagement and retention.

Punchline

Video podcasts are a fusion of traditional podcasts with recordings. It turns out that most users still perceive information better if they see a speaker or can concentrate on a visual element. Well-known video and audio platforms, such as YouTube or Spotify, adapted to the recent demands and opened side projects for video podcasts, but there are many more services to check out and choose from.