Starting a Podcast? Top 5 Podcast Formats and How to Choose the Right One for You

When starting a podcast, choosing the right format is crucial for creating engaging content that resonates with your audience. A podcast format is essentially the structure or style your show will follow, influencing everything from how episodes are organized to how listeners experience the content. Understanding these formats and their relationship with different podcast genres is the first step toward building a successful show.

What Is a Podcast Format?

A podcast format is the blueprint that dictates how each episode will unfold. It includes the style of delivery, the flow of content, and how segments are structured. This is different from a genre, which describes the overall theme or subject matter of the podcast, such as comedy, true crime, technology, or music. Formats are about how you present your content, while genres are about what your content is.

For example, two true crime podcasts could share the same genre, but one might use a solo commentary format, while the other might rely on storytelling with multiple narrators. Choosing the right format ensures your podcast fits your strengths and appeals to your target audience.

Podcast Genres and Formats

Before diving into the top formats, it's essential to understand how genres influence your choice. Here are some popular genres and their best-suited formats:

Comedy: Often uses roundtable discussions or improv formats to keep things spontaneous and engaging.

True Crime: Commonly relies on storytelling or documentary-style formats to maintain suspense and detail.

Music: Could use interview formats to discuss artists or solo commentary for deep dives into genres and albums.

Technology: Often structured as interview or educational formats to break down complex topics.

Understanding which genre you are most interested in can help you narrow down the formats that align with your goals.

Top 5 Podcast Formats Explained

Interview Format

This is one of the most popular formats, featuring conversations with guests who share their expertise, stories, or insights. It works well across various genres, such as technology, music, or true crime. Interview formats allow hosts to bring fresh perspectives and new voices to each episode, making it engaging for listeners who enjoy learning from diverse experts.

When to Choose It: If you enjoy engaging with others and have access to interesting guests or experts in your field, the interview format offers a dynamic way to build your podcast and grow your audience.

Solo Commentary Format

Solo commentary podcasts involve the host speaking directly to the audience, sharing personal thoughts, opinions, or expertise on a topic. This format works particularly well for genres like self-improvement, music analysis, or tech commentary, where the host’s knowledge or insight drives the content. It allows for complete creative freedom and control over the episode's flow and focus.

When to Choose It: If you’re confident speaking alone and want to establish yourself as an authority in your chosen topic, this format provides the space to deliver in-depth insights and connect personally with your audience.

Storytelling Format

The storytelling format is all about narrating events, whether they’re real or fictional. It’s perfect for true crime, historical analysis, or creative fiction podcasts where captivating narratives are essential. Storytelling podcasts often include a blend of research, scriptwriting, and sound design to create an immersive experience.

When to Choose It: If you enjoy crafting detailed stories and have a genre that lends itself well to narratives, this format allows for a deeper connection with the audience, drawing them into each episode’s story arc.

Roundtable Format

A roundtable format features multiple hosts or guests who discuss a topic, often providing a variety of perspectives. It’s a great fit for comedy, pop culture, or current event genres, where the dynamic interaction among hosts keeps the content lively and engaging. The format thrives on spontaneity and debate, making it appealing for listeners who enjoy hearing different opinions.

When to Choose It: If you have access to co-hosts or a group of guests willing to discuss topics in an open and engaging manner, the roundtable format offers a lively and inclusive setup.

Educational Format

Educational podcasts are designed to inform and teach, focusing on delivering structured content around a specific subject like history, science, or music theory. This format works well when listeners want to learn something new or gain deeper insights into a topic. Educational podcasts may be solo or interview-based, depending on the approach.

When to Choose It: If you have expertise in a particular field and enjoy presenting information in a clear, structured manner, an educational format can build credibility while providing value to your audience.

Choosing the Right Format for Your Podcast

When selecting your podcast format, think about your strengths, interests, and goals. Consider what you enjoy discussing and how you best connect with others—whether that’s through interviews, storytelling, or delivering commentary solo. Aligning the format with the genre and audience you want to reach will set you up for success.

Starting a Podcast? Top 5 Podcast Formats and How to Choose the Right One for You