Episode 267 | Insider Secrets to a Top 100 Podcast | Courtney Elmer

0:03 - Should You Follow the Video Podcasting Trend?
1:27 - Are You Ready for Video Podcasting? Here's How to Tell
5:43 - Audio vs. Video: Do You Really Need to Be on YouTube?
10:07 - Will the YouTube Algorithm Help or Hurt Your Podcast?
18:26 - What’s Coming Next for Podcast Advertising

Can You Have a Successful Podcast Without Video?

Can you have a successful podcast without video? Short answer: Absolutely. But are you missing out on podcast growth by sticking to audio only? That’s the bigger question. Podcasting hall-of-famer Dave Jackson is back to set the record straight on video podcasting. We’re tackling questions like: Is it worth putting a podcast on YouTube? What advantages are there to having a video podcast? Can you start with audio and add video later? When's the right time to add video? And is this video podcasting trend here to stay?

Whether you launched your podcast to avoid the camera or you're eyeing YouTube as the secret strategy for faster podcast growth, this post has the answers you need. Let’s get into it.

Should You Follow the Video Podcasting Trend?

Video podcasts are having a moment. But the crazy thing is, they’ve actually been around as long as podcasts themselves. What most people don’t realize — and Dave was quick to point out — is that video podcasts have been available on platforms like Apple since 2006. Yet, many still think YouTube was the first to bring them to the masses. Sure, YouTube made video podcasting content more accessible by letting you upload for free, and yes, it’s a huge platform. But that doesn’t mean you need to follow the crowd and grab a camera.

As Dave put it, just because video podcasting is getting a lot of buzz doesn’t mean you’re missing out if you stick to audio. Video podcasting has its place, but it’s not a must-do for every podcaster. Video can be a great tool if you have the time, energy, and resources to make it work. But if the thought of juggling cameras, lighting, and editing makes you want to hide under a blanket, know that you don't have to go the video podcasting route to succeed as a podcast host.

Are You Ready for Video Podcasting? Here's How to Tell:

Before you dive into video podcasting, ask yourself these three questions:

1. Bandwidth: Do you have the time to add another layer to your podcasting process? Video podcasting takes more than just recording — think editing, thumbnails, captions, and everything in between. If you don’t have a team to handle this for you and your schedule is already packed, video will likely stretch you too thin. (It doesn’t mean you can’t add it in eventually, but now might not be the right time).
   
   
2. Resources: Beyond time, do you have the right tools? The last thing you want is to put out something with low production quality and negatively impact the perception of your brand. Cameras, lighting, a good backdrop, and editing software aren’t just nice-to-haves — they’re essential for standing out against other high-quality video podcasts. (And don't forget about the learning curve that comes with mastering each one).
   
   
3. Desire: Most importantly, ask yourself if you even want to be on video? Are you excited about being on camera, or does it make you cringe? If you love it, great — that energy will come across to your audience. But if it feels like a chore, it might not be the right move for you right now.

Bottom line: Before you jump on the video podcasting bandwagon, make sure it aligns with your podcasting goals and capacity — or if it’s just another shiny distraction. Will video genuinely make your podcast better, or just add more work to your plate? Focus on what feels right for your audience and what feels sustainable for you.

Remember, it’s your show — so you get to build it in a way that feels right for you. Don’t let the pressure of what everyone else is doing push you in a direction that doesn’t feel like you.

Audio vs. Video: Are You Missing Out on Growth If Your Podcast Isn’t on YouTube?

If you’re like a lot of podcasters, you might be thinking, “Am I missing the boat if I’m not on YouTube?” Sure, YouTube is huge — but it’s not the end-all-be-all of podcasting. As Dave plainly puts it, you don’t need to be on YouTube to make it as a podcaster. Period.

Whenever you hear “you need to be” or “you have to do X, Y, Z,” consider it a red flag. The only thing you really need is to do what’s right for you and your audience. If video podcasting fits into the equation right now, great. If it doesn’t, that’s okay too. Often, sticking with audio is the smartest play, especially if you’re still finding your footing as a podcaster. Once you’ve mastered your craft as a host and nailed down your podcasting workflow, you can explore adding video or other strategies. Focus on building a solid foundation first and you’ll go further, faster.

Now, can video podcasting or YouTube podcasts help you reach new listeners? Sure, when done right. But here’s the thing: If your podcast isn’t growing the way you want right now, putting your podcast on YouTube isn’t going to magically fix it. It all comes down to having the right messaging and positioning. If your content isn’t resonating or your audience doesn’t see the value you bring, adding video won't change that. Before diving into video, make sure your podcast has a clear message and is speaking to the right people. Otherwise, you’re just adding another layer of work to something that isn’t yet working.

Will the YouTube Algorithm Help or Hurt Your Podcast?

As Dave explains, YouTube's algorithm is like trying to hit a bullseye on a dartboard that keeps moving. You could put hours into crafting the perfect video with the ideal thumbnail and catchy title, only to have it vanish the moment YouTube tweaks its algorithm. You’re at the mercy of their system — and just when you think you've cracked the code, the rules change.

Sure, YouTube can open the door to a new audience, but is it worth the work if it leads to burnout? It depends. If you've got a solid podcast routine, nailed your messaging, and have extra bandwidth, go for it. But don’t feel pressured. You don't have to play the YouTube game to succeed. Focus on what’s working for you now and expand only when you're truly ready.

What’s Coming Next for Podcasting

Want a sneak peek at the future of podcasting? Spoiler alert: it involves ads, and lots of them. According to Dave, big companies are pushing to make podcasting more like radio, crammed with commercials because, let's be honest, ads are where the money is. “Radio is 30% advertising,” Dave pointed out, “and some companies want to see podcasting go the same route.” But don't worry — you’re still in control of how you monetize your show.

Like Dave mentioned, “There’s a lot of opportunity for small to medium-sized podcasts to attract niche sponsors who actually resonate with their audience.” And in the previous episode with Dave, we dove into creative ways to monetize your podcast without relying on ads or sponsors. The bottom line? There’s more than one way to make money from your show without compromising your listener’s experience. (And if you’re ready to dig deeper into podcast monetization strategies, grab a copy of Dave's book, Profit from Your Podcast, and start exploring over 20 creative ways to make money, regardless of your audience size).

So, Do You Need Video to Succeed in Podcasting?

The short answer? No. Your podcast, your rules. If video podcasting feels right for you, go for it. But also know that there are plenty of ways to grow and succeed as a podcaster without ever pressing record on a camera. And if you’re curious about what those ways are, stay tuned. In the next episode, I’m sharing my top three strategies from our recent growth panel at Podcast Movement to help you make your business bingeworthy — no video required.

Next Up:

If you want your podcast discovered by new listeners, you need three key things to stand out in today’s increasingly crowded space. In the next episode, we’ll unpack what it really takes to attract new listeners daily — and reveal the one growth metric most podcasters aren’t tracking (but should be). Don’t miss it!