I posted something similar on the Leah Itsines thread then I realised I’d love to have this conversation here.
I’m a massive podcast fan. But I think the craft of radio (now, podcasts) has been lost to influencers who can easily get a podcast with no training or substance for what to say. It’s actually surprisingly hard to be good at audio. It’s not like just having a conversation. Podcasts are very difficult to listen to when the host speaks too fast or interrupts, or doesn’t understand how to tell a story. Here’s my review of some of the popular podcasters I’ve listened to over the years… I’d love to read reviews from others?
Abbie Chatfield: her rants are hilarious and she makes me a bit more woke
But sometimes she just speaks way too fast, I can’t understand her.
Em Rusciano: you can tell she is old school professional broadcaster, especially if you listen to her monologue at the start of each ep where she asks “how are you,” and effortlessly moves from one topic to the next. She’s really good at cutting a topic off at just the right time. And it seems basic, but she knows how to use a microphone
she moves closer/back depending on volume and uses that change in sound to emphasis points or as humour in a story. So good.
Mia Freedman: haven’t listened in a while but was super impressed with her interview skills. She asks a question and then sits silent to let her guest just SPEAK. No interruptions! She knows when the answer is coming to a natural end, and comes back in at the right time to ask the next question, which also naturally flows on from the last answer. Her voice is also “layered” (can’t think of the right word) which is really pleasant for audio.
Jacob Stanley: fairly new podcaster but also a natural! Relaxing voice. Fantastic storyteller.
Tully Smyth: I really want to support her but I could not get through any of the eps I listened to. She interrupts the guests to give her own answer to the question she just asked. Some of the episodes lacked purpose. I think there was more focus on the IDEA of having a podcast than the actual podcast.
Rosie Waterland: another one who interrupts a fair bit, but she’s self aware and makes fun of herself. Her podcast Just The Gist.. is so clever. Cool stories, the formula of her telling the story to Jacob just works. I love her voice, she says she nasally but I love it.
Another great storyteller, great writer, great creative.
Shameless: these two are pros and have developed over years. Sometimes their takes can be a little ill-thought, but they have mastered their episode structure, timing per segment is spot on, they know their purpose (sugary celeb goss) and don’t leave their lane.
I could keep going! But too long…
according to latest podcast
(Outspoken the Podcast) zzzzzz