Video Podcast: How to Start, Tips, Software, and Secret Tricks

Starting a video podcast might seem easy at first—choose a topic, press record, and share it online. But soon, you’ll realize it’s not that simple.

Setting up the technology can be confusing, editing takes a lot of time, and trying to make everything perfect can be exhausting.

You might spend hours adjusting sound levels, cutting out extra clips, or working on smooth transitions, only to find that your video still doesn’t look special.

The hardest part? There’s a lot of competition, and if your content doesn’t catch people’s attention quickly, you could lose your audience. But it doesn’t have to be this hard. 

Therefore, In this post, I’ll cover the steps to create a video podcast that captures attention and keeps your viewers interested without all the stress and time wasted.

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What is a Video Podcast?

A video podcast is basically a podcast but with video. It's the same idea as your regular audio podcast—episodes filled with discussions, interviews, or stories.

The only difference is that you get to see the people, the action, and the visuals alongside the audio.

Here’s the breakdown…

1. What’s It Like? Just like an audio podcast, it's a series of episodes. But with video, you get more—face-to-face interaction, live demonstrations, or even just the host’s expressions to add depth.
2. Where to Find It? You’ll usually find them on YouTube, Vimeo, or podcast platforms that support video (such as Apple Podcasts or Spotify). Creators can also post them on their own sites or social media.
3. What’s in It? It could be anything—interviews, how-tos, reviews, or even comedy. The key is that the video adds something extra. You get to see the speaker’s expressions, gestures, and visuals that tie into the content.
4. Why Does It Work? Watching and listening at the same time makes it more engaging. You feel closer to the hosts. Plus, it can help drive better interaction through comments and feedback.
5. How’s It Made? Video podcasts need more than just a mic. You’ll need a camera, good lighting, and editing skills to make it look professional.

Why Start a Video Podcast? Key Benefits

Video podcasts help you connect with your audience on a deeper level, build credibility faster, and expand your reach across multiple platforms. Here’s why you should consider jumping in.

Build a More Personal Connection with Your Audience

We all know people like watching videos. But here’s the kicker: video podcasts create a deeper, more personal connection with your audience.

Hearing your voice is one thing, but seeing your facial expressions, body language, and mannerisms adds another layer to the connection.

Research says only 7% of communication is through words; the remaining 93% comes from tone of voice (38%) and body language (55%). And video lets your audience pick up on all those cues.

It’s these small moments that create trust, and trust keeps people coming back.

Establish Yourself as an Authority—Faster

In any field, being seen as an authority is crucial. With a video podcast, you can rapidly increase your credibility by presenting yourself as someone knowledgeable, approachable, and consistent.

A well-produced video podcast can position you as a thought leader, especially if you dive into niche topics that other creators shy away from. Video podcast not only highlights your expertise but also adds a personal touch that makes you more relatable.

Take Gary Vaynerchuk, for instance. Through his video podcast, The GaryVee Audio Experience, he has built a reputation as a thought leader in entrepreneurship, marketing, and social media.

But here he doesn't just share his business insights. He incorporates his personality, real-life stories, and unfiltered advice which make him relatable.

Therefore, you’ll get remembered not just for the info you shared, but also for how you presented it.

Increased Engagement Through Visual Learning

Not everyone learns the same way. Some are auditory learners, others are visual. Video podcasts cater to both types of learners.

Therefore, whether you’re discussing a complex idea, or simply sharing a story, visuals can simplify the learning process. This leads to a deeper understanding and better retention of your message and your audience's experience of it. 

Improves Public Speaking Skills

Talking into a mic or camera is a little like walking a tightrope at first. But over time, you get more comfortable with your voice, posture, and presentation.

Video podcasting can seriously sharpen your public speaking skills—your delivery will get smoother, your confidence will rise, and soon you’ll be a pro at holding an audience's attention, even in person.

Opens Doors for Cross-Promotion

Being on video gives you a wider range of cross-promotion opportunities. You can collaborate with other YouTubers or influencers, share clips on Instagram or TikTok, or even use your podcast as a launchpad for other content, like vlogs or product reviews.

It’s a snowball effect—every video, every clip, and every platform you use increases visibility and opens more doors for growth, partnerships, and a wider following. The more content you create, the more people you’ll reach. Simple as that.

How to Start a Video Podcast: Step-by-Step Guide

Starting a video podcast requires a clear strategy, from choosing your niche to setting up the right gear. Follow this guide for a smooth launch and long-term success.

Define Your Niche and Audience

First things first, think about who you’re talking to. A lot of people dive into podcasting without considering their audience, and that’s a huge mistake. Don’t fall into that trap.

Get specific! You don’t need to appeal to everyone. Pick a niche—a hobby, a passion, or even a specific problem people have. 

Maybe you’re into quirky vintage books, or you love DIY home projects. You’ll be amazed how narrowing your focus helps build a community that truly cares.

For example, The Minimalists Podcast focuses on the minimalist lifestyle. They don’t try to reach every type of listener—they appeal to people who want to simplify their lives.

By zeroing in on a single idea, they’ve built a loyal, passionate following. So, find your tribe, and talk directly to them.

Quick Tip:

Search through Reddit threads or niche Facebook groups to pinpoint what people are struggling with. Answer the common questions or frustrations, and your podcast becomes the go-to place for solutions.

Plan Your Content

Content planning doesn't mean you need a rigid script for every episode. Instead, focus on a framework that keeps your episodes fresh and engaging. Take a cue from Tim Ferris Show.

His podcast is famous for its long, unscripted conversations, yet it’s consistently engaging because it follows a familiar flow—intro, main conversation, and, closing remarks.

You can do the same. Outline the big picture—topics, segments, and recurring themes—and let the conversation fill in the gaps. This gives you freedom but also keeps your podcast grounded in structure.

Additionally, map out the topics you want to cover over the next few months. By doing this, you'll stay ahead of the curve.

Podcasts that plan content in advance see more increase in listener retention—people are more likely to tune back in when they know what to expect.

To generate ideas, check trending topics in your niche. Google Trends, Reddit forums, and industry blogs are great for spotting what's relevant. This way, you can be sure you’re tapping into the discussions that are important to your audience.

Set Up Your Recording Space

Your space doesn’t need to look like a professional studio. But there’s a simple rule: control your environment. 

I learned the hard way that recording with background noise is a nightmare. So, invest in a basic microphone, and get creative with your environment—like using a smaller room with soft furnishings like curtains, rugs, or even couch cushions to absorb sound to improve acoustics.

You’d be surprised how much a bit of makeshift soundproofing can enhance your audio quality. If you’re in a noisy area, invest in a simple microphone isolation shield, which won’t break the bank but will drastically improve sound quality.

Below is the perfect example of a recording room, featuring soundproofing, professional microphones, acoustic panels, and optimal lighting for high-quality output.

Select Your Equipment

When selecting equipment for your video podcast, it’s important to strike a balance between quality and budget. Here’s a comprehensive list of everything you’ll need:

• Blue Yeti USB Microphone– A popular choice for beginners and pros alike, offering crystal-clear audio and multiple pickup patterns.
• Alternative: Audio-Technica ATR2100x ($80) – A dynamic mic that’s great for noise rejection.
• Pop filter– Helps reduce plosives (harsh "p" and "b" sounds) for clearer audio.
• Closed-back headphones (e.g., Audio-Technica ATH-M50x, $150) – Essential for monitoring audio without feedback or bleeding.
• Webcam (e.g., Logitech C920) – For budget-friendly video capture.
• DSLR or Mirrorless Camera (e.g., Canon EOS M50) – For high-end production value.
• Camera tripod– For DSLR/mirrorless setups.
• Ring Light– Provides even, flattering lighting for your face.
• Softbox Kit– Diffuses light, reducing harsh shadows for more professional lighting.
• LED Panel Lights– Versatile, portable, and adjustable for different lighting setups.
• Foam Panels– Help soundproof your room, reducing echo and background noise.
• Bass Traps– Absorb low frequencies for cleaner audio

Choose Recording Software

Not every podcaster needs pro tools to get started. Go for simplicity.

• Zoom is a great way to get started with remote guests—just make sure you use the local recording option to get the best sound quality.
• For editing, don’t overcomplicate things. Audacity or iMovie (both free) can get the job done, and they don’t require steep learning curves.

Edit Your Video Podcast

Editing doesn’t have to be a headache. Keep it simple. Focus on cutting out the awkward pauses, off-topic rants, or any major background noise.

If you’re nervous about editing, try Canva or InShot for basic video cuts—they’re intuitive and help you deliver a smooth final product. Remember, the key isn’t to make it perfect; it’s about staying authentic.

One thing I learned? Don't over-edit. If you're constantly cutting yourself out, your content will feel robotic. Instead, leave in those small moments where you mess up. It shows your audience you’re human.

Pro Tip:

Zebracat can save you time by automatically converting your audio podcast into a fully edited video, using an AI avatar. No need for complex editing programs to sync your audio with video manually—Zebracat does it all for you. 

Here’s how you can use Zebracat to make your podcast video:

Publish and Promote

Now the fun begins. Simply hitting “publish” isn’t enough. You need to be where your audience hangs out.

Share snippets on TikTok or Instagram—these short clips are perfect for grabbing attention. In fact, TikTok's average time spent per user is 53.8 minutes a day. That’s massive for cross-promotion.

Pro Tip: 

• Repurpose content. Take a five-minute clip and create Instagram stories, Twitter threads, or even a blog post. 
• Space out the content: post a fresh snippet every two days. This keeps your podcast front and center without overwhelming your audience.

How to Turn Your Podcast Into Video?

Ever feel like your podcast has so much more potential than just sitting on audio platforms? You’re not alone.

People want to see expressions, body language, and a little bit of that behind-the-scenes magic. Well, turning your podcast into video might just be the move that changes the game. 

Follow these steps to turn your podcast into a video with Zebracat: 

1. Select the AI avatar option from the “Video Type” section. 

2. Upload your podcast audio to Zebracat. It’s as easy as drag-and-drop.

3. Now select caption language and hit “Process”.

4. Choose the video length and the mood.

5. Hit “Next” and Zebracat will you your podcast video in minutes. 
6. You can customize your video with text overlays, backgrounds, or even subtitles to make it more engaging. 
7. Then, hit publish!

Your podcast is now a fully-formed video, ready for distribution.

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Essential Tips for a Successful Video Podcast

Here are the quick, no-fluff tips that will help you take your podcast to the next level without the hassle.

Engagement Tips

If you want real engagement with your video podcast, skip audiograms—they don’t move the needle. Instead…

1. Focus on short, punchy video clips (15, 30, or 60 seconds) that capture the most exciting, relatable, or funny moments of your podcast. Share these on social media to catch attention and get people interested. 
2. No need for fancy edits, just raw, engaging moments that leave people wanting more. 
3. Also, try posting specific promo videos telling your audience what the episode is about and where they can listen—this personal touch can boost conversions and build anticipation. 

Remember, it's all about value and relatability!

Consistency

Staying consistent with your video podcast comes down to a few practical hacks. 

1. Batch record your episodes—set aside one day a month to knock out 3-4 recordings. It saves time and eliminates the weekly scramble. 
2. Keep your audio clean from the start: use a good mic (like a Zoom PodTrak P4 or a mixer) to reduce editing headaches later. 
3. If you hate editing, use Zebracat to quickly turn your audio into podcast video—or outsource it if you can swing it. 
4. Streamline your process by sticking to an outline during recording to avoid tangents and extra cuts. 
5. Lastly, schedule public announcements (like Instagram posts) to force yourself to hit deadlines—because nothing lights a fire like accountability! 🔥

Collaboration

Think collaboration means inviting big names onto your show? Sure, that works, but it’s more about strategic collaborations.

One underrated idea is cross-promotion with other podcasters in similar niches. Small creators with a similar audience base are often more willing to collaborate, and these cross-promotions have a huge impact on exposure.

Here’s a tactic I use: Instead of just doing a “guest” episode, I schedule joint series with other creators. We’ll record a series of 5-6 episodes, each on a different podcast, that all build on each other. 

This results in an audience that follows across podcasts, dramatically increasing your reach. And it works for both sides.

SEO for Video Podcasts

Here’s a simpler, no-frills breakdown for podcast SEO:

• Podcast Name: Make sure your podcast title has keywords that people actually search for. If it’s about women's self-help, add something like “Women Self-Care” or “Women Personal Growth” to your title so it’s easier to find.
• Episode Titles: Instead of vague titles like "Episode 1," use something like "Self-Care Tips for Better Mental Health." It tells people what it’s about and helps with searchability.
• Descriptions: While search engines don’t always use them, throw in a few keywords here too. Just make sure it flows naturally, don’t stuff them in there.
• Research Keywords: Before naming episodes or creating descriptions, use Google Keyword Planner or Answer the Public to find what keywords are getting searched. This helps avoid the guesswork and makes your content easier to find.
• Promote on Social Media: Promote your podcast on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook, wherever you can. Share clips, ask for feedback, and create buzz around your episodes to get people talking and sharing.

SEO isn't instant. It takes time to build authority and visibility. Keep pushing out quality content, stay consistent with your keywords, and you’ll see results eventually.

Recommended Software for Video Podcasts

For video podcasting, you don't need to be overwhelmed will all the tech options out there. Below are some of the recommended tools that can help you get your podcast onto video without all the hassle. 

Zebracat

Best For: Fast and simple audio-to-video conversion.

Zebracat is the easiest way to turn your audio podcast into a video. You just upload your audio, and it creates a video with either a custom avatar or a pre-made one.

It’s perfect if you want to you’re not a video editor and don’t want to pay someone to edit your video. In minutes, your podcast turns into a slick video with simple visuals to keep your audience engaged.

Key Benefits

• Convert your audio into video with avatars.
• Simple interface, and no steep learning curve.
• Speeds up video production, saving you time
• Affordable and helps cut production costs.
• Great for podcasters who want to focus on content, not tech.

StreamYard 

Best For: Live video podcast and audience interaction.

StreamYard is built for live streaming. If you want to broadcast your podcast live to YouTube, Facebook, or other platforms, StreamYard lets you do that. You can also interact with your audience in real-time with chat features.

Plus It’s easy to use, so you won’t have to spend hours setting things up before going live.

Key Benefits

• Stream live to multiple platforms at once.
• Great for engaging with your audience in real-time.
• Easy to use and accessible for beginners.

Riverside.fm

Best For: High-quality, reliable recordings.

Riverside.fm is perfect if you care about the quality of your audio and video. It records everything locally, so your podcast won’t suffer from internet issues or lag.

You can rely on it to produce top-quality recordings with no interruptions. It’s easy to use, and it has some editing tools built in to help clean up your audio and video after recording.

Key Benefits:

• Trusted by professionals for reliability and clarity.
• HD video recording (up to 4K) and lossless audio quality (WAV format)
• Live monitoring of your recording quality, so you can immediately spot any issues with audio or video and fix them during the recording session

Descript

Best For: Easy editing with text.

Descript makes editing your podcast super simple. Instead of dealing with complex audio editing software, you can edit your podcast just like a text document. 

If you need to add a word, change a sentence, or cut something out, you do it by editing the transcript. It’s a huge time-saver, especially if you’re not into traditional editing.

Key Benefits:

• Overdub allows you to generate realistic voice recordings from your own voice, meaning you can “fix” mistakes or add new lines without re-recording.
• You can invite your co-host, producer, or editor to edit your podcast. 
• Descript automatically detects and removes filler words like "uh," "um," and "you know," saving you hours of manual editing.

Secret Tricks to Take Your Video Podcast to the Next Level

If you're looking to amplify your reach, boost listener engagement, and monetize your podcast, here are some proven strategies to attract a loyal audience and level up your podcasting efforts.

Repurposing Content

Got a bunch of great podcast content but struggling to get it out there? Break your episodes into 30-60-second clips featuring the funniest, most engaging, or controversial moments, and post them on Instagram, TikTok, or Twitter to grab attention. 

For example, the "Call Her Daddy" podcast regularly posts short, witty clips on TikTok, which get tons of engagement and drive listeners back to the full episodes. 

A single viral clip can drive tons of new listeners to your full show. Similarly, repurpose your podcast into detailed blog posts that will rank on Google and drive traffic to the full episodes.

Interactive Features

Gone are the days of one-way communication with your audience.

Make your podcast more interactive by incorporating polls, live Q&As, and real-time comments. StreamYard and YouTube Live allow you to add interactive elements during live episodes, where your audience can participate in polls, ask questions, and engage in real-time.

This can create a sense of community and when viewers feel like they’re part of the show, they’ll be more likely to stick around and keep coming back.

Pro Tip:

Ask for feedback or let your audience suggest future guests or episode themes to keep them invested in your content.

Monetization Hacks

While traditional ads are the most common way to monetize a podcast, they aren't the only way to earn money. Here are some other methods:

• Crowdfunding: Use Patreon or Ko-fi to let your audience support you directly. Offer special rewards like behind-the-scenes content, exclusive interviews, or personalized shoutouts to encourage them to support your show. 
• Merchandise: Sell podcast-themed items like T-shirts, mugs, or hats with your logo. It’s an easy way to make money and promote your podcast at the same time.
• Sponsorships: Collaborate with brands that match your podcast’s values. Instead of just ads, feature their products in a natural, conversational way that feels authentic.

Professionalism on a Budget

You don’t have to spend a fortune to create a professional podcast setup. Here’s how to level up on a budget:

• Lighting: Good lighting can change everything. Grab a softbox or ring light—super affordable—and it’ll instantly make your setup look more polished.
• Camera and Audio: Sure, a fancy camera helps, but good audio is crucial. Invest in a solid mic. Blue Yeti or Audio-Technica AT2020 are the best. These won’t break the bank but will make your podcast sound much better.
• Backdrop: No need for an expensive backdrop. Just tidy up your space or use a simple curtain behind you. A clean background looks much more professional.
• Editing Tools: You don’t need to hire an editor. Zebracat streamlines your process. It lets add visuals to your audio, and produce high-quality videos without needing advanced skills.

Case Studies: Successful Video Podcasts

Let’s look at some of the most successful video podcasts and what you can learn from them. 

1. The Joe Rogan Experience

Platform: YouTube, Spotify

Why It Works: Joe Rogan's podcast is a huge success in the podcasting world. What makes it special? He doesn't pretend to be someone he's not. It's honest, unedited, and feels like a genuine chat between pals.

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When he started doing video versions, it got even better—people could see his expressions, body language, and how he interacted with famous guests. This made it more intimate and interesting.

2. Call Her Daddy

‍Platform: YouTube, Spotify

Why It Works: Alexandra Cooper's honest and fearless discussions about dating, sex, and personal growth made her podcast very popular. Her genuine personality, combined with bold visuals such as behind-the-scenes videos and on-screen graphics, turned a regular podcast into a must-watch show.

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Every episode feels like a conversation with a friend, and her direct, no-nonsense style resonates with listeners who crave real, honest content.

3. Impact Theory with Tom Bilyeu

Platform: YouTube, Apple Podcasts

Why It Works: Tom Bilyeu’s podcast is a game-changer in the self-development space. From high-quality video production to professional lighting, his podcast exudes credibility and class.

The video format allows him to present complex ideas in a way that feels accessible—his passion and energy are contagious. The visuals emphasize key moments, making his messages resonate deeper with the audience.

Conclusion 

Starting a video podcast is a rewarding yet demanding journey. You need to select your niche, set up your recording space, and select the right gear.

Along with that, you need to have the right tools to manage your workflow. automate processes and improve your content distribution.

Zebracat is a powerful solution to streamline your podcast creation. You just need to upload your audio and it'll give you the podcast video in 2 minutes.

And the best part is that you will get a 60% off on its annual plan if you sign up today. So why wait? Sign up for Zebracat now and start your podcast journey without any hassle.

FAQs

What’s the best length for a video podcast?

The best length for a video podcast is usually between 20 and 40 minutes. This is long enough to cover a topic well, but not so long that people get bored. However, make sure the content is good, not just the length!

Do I need a professional studio to start?

No, you don't need a professional studio to start a video podcast. Lots of successful podcasters start with just a simple setup at home, using basic equipment including a good microphone, a webcam, and some good lighting.

Just focus on making great content, and you can improve your setup as your podcast gets bigger.

How do I get guests for my podcast?

• Use Podchaser Connect to discover guests based on show themes or profiles.
• Search LinkedIn for industry professionals and Twitter for casual outreach.
• Join niche groups where experts gather and approach group leaders for guest spots.
• Create a form on your website for listeners to suggest potential guests.
• Attend conferences to meet guests in person and get recommendations.
• Contact other podcasters for guest swaps or referrals to experts.

Can I start a video podcast with no budget?

Yes, you can start a video podcast with no budget. You can use your computer or smartphone to record audio and video, leveraging free software--Zoom or Riverside.fm's free plan.

Is a video podcast a vlog?

No, a video podcast is not the same as a vlog. Video podcasts typically feature structured discussions or interviews focused on specific topics, while vlogs are more personal and informal, often documenting daily life or experiences.

Is a video podcast worth it? 

Yes, a video podcast can be worth it if you want to build a deeper connection with your audience. Plus, gives you more opportunities for creative branding and monetization through YouTube or Patreon.