Video Podcast: What Is It, How To Get Started and Why

Video podcasting is, by now, the new normal. From YouTube to Spotify, the lines between audio and video are blurring fast, and audiences are showing up for both. What started as a passing trend has quickly become one of the best ways for shows to grow, connect, and build community.

At Lower Street, we’ve been right in the thick of this shift,  and we’re all for it (as long as you’re doing it right). We’ve seen how embracing video podcasting can deepen engagement and bring in entirely new audiences. It’s a medium that opens up possibilities: two-way conversation, stronger search visibility, and room to experiment with new formats. And when you consider that YouTube is the second-largest search engine in the world, it just makes sense to get your brand and your content in front of people there.

But with this move to the camera comes plenty of new questions — especially from marketing teams figuring out how to make it all work. So let’s have a look.

In this post, we'll deep dive into everything you need to know about video podcasting by addressing the four most frequently asked questions we hear:

• What is a video podcast?

• Should I create a video podcast?

• What are the different types of video podcast formats?

• How do I make a video podcast?

You may still be on the fence. But, given the popularity of video content and the platforms that distribute it, it's a smart move to hedge your bets and at least consider creating a video for your podcast.

What Is a Video Podcast?

A video podcast is—just as you'd expect—a podcast with video. Now we could say “simple as that!”, but it’s clear looking at video podcasts out there that it isn’t. A video podcast shouldn’t be just an audio show with raw footage. Sure, we could call that a video podcast, but if you want to do it right… Consider a video podcast an audio-first show with the addition of a visual element to engage viewers, as well as listeners. Neither should miss out when they watch or listen.

While there is a visual component to every video podcast, the audio content is still very much the focus.

Now, some OGs of the podcasting world may call you out here. Many of the purists' definitions of a podcast necessitate the existence of a podcast RSS feed.

Yet because video podcasts are typically hosted on YouTube—less commonly on Vimeo or a podcast website—they may not necessarily have this in the same way that audio-only shows have an RSS feed to automatically distribute their catalog to podcast directories.

In saying that, podcast hosting sites like Transistor or Libsyn, can auto-post video or audio files (combined with your podcast cover art or background image of choice) to the video platform. And popular directory Spotify now supports the hosting of video podcasts through Spotify for Podcasters.

Additionally, YouTube conducted an RSS Ingestion Pilot. In its test form, it supported ad-free, audio-only episodes accompanied with a static, rectangular image. While YouTube weren't allowing for the "passthrough" of podcast tracking analytics, such as how many times an episode was listened to, it is still an indicator of YouTube's growing investment in podcasting.

While that was all pretty technical, I’m sure the question on some of your minds is “so, what’s the difference between a video podcast and YouTube channel?”

Well, your show can still live on a YouTube channel, but what will differentiate your podcast from a YouTuber is mainly that your video podcast should be produced so that people can get the full value from it, whether they tune in with video or not.

Should I Create a Video Podcast?

Just because you can do something doesn't necessarily mean you should.

Video may be the latest tactic to distinguish yourself in an ever-growing sea of podcasts, but does that mean it's right for your show?

Only you know your brand and the outcomes you aim to achieve through your show, so the first step to deciding whether you should create or pivot to a video format is to determine whether it aligns with your overall branding strategy and if it will assist in reaching your goals.

Weighing into the decision, you also need to factor in your podcast's ideal listener—the platforms they'll use to find you, and whether they prefer visual over audio—and your budget.

There's no denying that adding video to your podcast increases the complexity, time, effort and funds needed to produce a quality show.

But, before you rule it out entirely, consider the following as just some of the benefits of video podcasting.

Video Podcast vs. Audio Podcast

Video and audio podcasts offer unique ways of delivering content to an audience, and they each have strengths and weaknesses. 

Video makes for a more dynamic and engaging experience for the viewer, as they can see the host's facial expressions. There’s also the opportunity to add visuals for any key points discussed. 
This visual element can captivate the audience and keep them more engaged with the content. We also like to point out that producing a great-quality video show let’s you take full advantage of YouTube as a platform. 

The benefits of YouTube:

Discoverability:
YouTube is the second-largest search engine in the world — and it wants to find your audience. Its algorithm tests your content with small groups, learns who connects with it, and keeps expanding your reach over time. When done right, your podcast can live a second life on YouTube, continuing to surface long after release.

Built-in community and real feedback.
Unlike RSS, where listeners are scattered across platforms, YouTube gives you one central hub where your audience can actually talk back. Comments, likes, and shares turn your podcast from a one-way broadcast into an ongoing conversation — no extra Discords, newsletters, or forums required.

Room to experiment and test topics.
YouTube’s analytics and algorithm make it the perfect lab for experimenting with “episodettes,” new topics, or formats. You can quickly see what resonates, double down on what works, and pivot when needed — all backed by clear performance data instead of guesswork.

Reach new (and different) audiences.
YouTube audiences don’t usually replace your audio listeners — they expand them. It’s a chance to connect with people who might never open a podcast app but still align with your brand’s message and content.

Clarity on who’s really watching.
Between analytics and audience comments, YouTube gives you a clearer picture of who’s engaging with your show — and whether that audience is actually valuable to your goals. Sometimes the best insight isn’t how big your audience is, but whether it’s the right one.

Now back to our video vs. audio, there is a downside to video: it requires more resources and planning, as the production quality and visual aesthetics are more critical. 

On the other hand, audio podcasts are more accessible and convenient for listeners, as they can easily consume the content while on the go or when they’re working out or washing dishes. Audio podcasts also require less production work and can be more cost-effective. 

Ultimately, the choice between starting a podcast on YouTube or sticking with audio only depends on the type of podcast content you create and your audience's preferences. Both formats have their own merits and can be effective in different ways.

Our final take on the video podcast vs. audio podcast debate? Go with the one that makes sense for your brand.

Support the explanation of more complex topics or visual concepts

Depending on the format of your show and the concepts you are discussing, video can be highly beneficial in strengthening your audience's understanding of what is being discussed.

Frankly, some topics are easier to grasp when explained visually.

Whether that's seeing the speakers gesticulate and act out what they're explaining, or going as far as adding imagery, diagrams or charts to your video, your audience may increase their understanding and retention of your content with the addition of visual elements.

Expose your show to a bigger audience

Video podcasts are up in popularity. The State of Video Podcasting in 2025 said that 77% of U.S. podcast listeners now regularly alternate between audio and video formats. Then many others might not necessarily call themselves podcast listeners, but like to tune into video content.

But it's not only about catering to those who are already sold on podcasts. Or leveraging the discoverability and growing reach of YouTube as the preferred platform for podcasts.

People just love videos. YouTube has 122 million users daily. Whether it be to help them relax and unwind, or access instructional or informative content, it seems many people simply can't get enough of video.

So, if it makes sense for the purpose of your show and the audience you're targeting, why not widen the net to capture all those video lovers out there?

Repurpose content with ease (while giving it the best opportunity to perform on social media)

We've discussed the hows and whys of repurposing podcast content before. While we won't get too deep into details of how to repurpose video content here, it's safe to say that recording your episodes in full gives you a more than ample supply of footage to create bite-sized, highly engaging, and social media-ready video snippets to share.

Think 60-second stand-out moments, highlight reels, teasers, or even laugh-out-loud bloopers that grab the attention of those scrolling their social feeds.

In addition to saving you a heap of time in content generation, regularly sharing repurposed content allows you to easily and consistently post to social media—appeasing platform algorithms, which in turn, improves your platform rankings and increases your show's reach and exposure.

And with social media users being 52% more likely to share video content than any other type of content, you'd be a fool not to take full advantage of all that video footage.

What Are the Different Types of Video Podcast Formats?

We've addressed what they are and how you might benefit from them, so now it's time to discuss the different formats of video podcasts.

Just as with their audio-exclusive counterparts, video podcasts can come in several different styles. The one you choose will depend on the content and structure of your podcast, the effort you want to put into postproduction, and your budget.

A point of clarity. The formats listed here capture the entirety of your episode. Whether your episodes run 15 minutes or 50, the finished video—irrespective of format—contains the whole show. This is long-form content, not the short snippets and selected highlights we discussed earlier.

Remote interview recordings

Remote interview recordings combine the footage of two or more speakers who aren't in the same physical location.

An example of a 'talking heads' video, is the people being filmed speak directly into the camera or look slightly off to the side. The shot typically concentrates on the speakers' heads and upper torsos, hence the name, which helps to keep the focus on what is being said rather than seen.

The level of quality and postproduction addition of any visual elements, such as the framing in this episode of Higher Learning with Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay, will determine the time and effort involved here.

The barrier to entry for remote interview recordings can be quite low. That being said, quality can make a huge difference. It’s worth investing in quality equipment, even if simple. And it’s definitely worth taking your time to edit, making sure you give your audience the full value they deserve. If you really want to have your video podcast take off and gain traction, put in the effort and the strategy.

Related reading: How to Record Podcasts Remotely

In-studio recording

Best suited to interview podcasts, in-studio recordings film the conversation between the show's host and guests.

While a single camera that captures both the host and guest in one frame is easier, the more professional path is to opt for multiple cameras—one to focus on each individual speaker and another wide angle of the whole room. The additional angles allow you to capture the words, reactions, and expressions of each speaker in greater detail, but do come with more time in the editing room and a bigger investment in equipment.

Additional considerations for this format include your appearance, location, and lighting.

Think about how you are presenting yourself, and the setting you're recording in. Do they align with your branding? Are they complementary to the style and tone of your podcast? Is the setting conducive to producing quality audio?

Consider these questions as well as the lighting. You may need to purchase additional lights to ensure your and your guests' faces are well-lit and clearly visible—without looking like you're under the fluorescent of an operating theater.

In-studio recordings can be as lavish or basic as your budget allows. Go big if you want to connect with professionals and you can afford to. But Grace Helbig's Not Too Deep: The Podcast serves as a reminder that things don't have to look perfect to make the most of this format.

Incorporating B-roll footage

The most intensive of the formats listed here is creating a video podcast that combines the recording of your show with B-roll footage. This results in highly engaging content that newer audiences simply can't get enough of.

B-roll, or archival footage is any visual asset that you insert into your video file during the editing process. It can be anything from an image, chart or graph, to a news article or movie clip. Where you source it from will depend on what it is you or your guest are referencing—so be sure to have the legal green light with the content you're adding.

While one could argue we're encroaching on the realms of television at this point, there's no denying that the format attracts viewers. Murder With My Husband has 308K subscribers on YouTube, and this episode alone has clocked some 262,827 views.

This format is dynamic, with the B-roll footage captivating audiences and enhancing their podcasting experience. Keep in mind this comes at a cost.

The additional editing, and there is a lot, is both time-consuming and expensive. If this is your style, you may want to look at collaborating with a video podcast agency to help you see it through.

How Do I Make a Video Podcast?

How you create a video podcast depends on two key factors:

1. Which of the formats outlined above do you decide to produce, and

2. Where you are in your podcasting journey when making this decision?

That is, are you just getting started or considering adding video as a means to broaden the reach of your long-standing show?

If you're starting from scratch, the fundamentals are the same regardless of whether your podcast includes visual components or is audio-exclusive. From ideation and production to editing and promotion, we've covered the entire journey in many of our comprehensive guides, including:

• How to Start a Podcast for Your Brand

• How to Produce a Podcast: Quick Ways to Win Success

• How to Edit a Podcast: Audio Levels, Content, Tips, Trailers & More

• How to Promote a Podcast: Ideas & Tips on the Best Strategies

Obviously, however, the addition of video does bring about several more steps to getting your show off the ground.

Decide on your video format

Deciding on the format of your show is the fundamental first step that impacts everything moving forward. From purchasing equipment to calculating the hours required for post-production editing, there are huge differences in the needs of a video podcast with static images compared to one that incorporates interview and B-roll footage.

Get this step right by spending considerable time in the research and planning phase. Define what success will look like for your show, what greater business outcomes you hope to achieve, and determine the best format to make that happen. Analyse competitors and evaluate listener data to make an informed decision.

Purchase video equipment

Although smartphones are increasingly capable these days, having a good-quality camera is a non-negotiable for delivering the most engaging content. It allows you to capture crisp visuals, showcase facial expressions, and enhance the production value of your episodes.

If you have budget constraints, an external webcam can be a cost-effective option to deliver decent video quality.A good external webcam we recommend is the Insta360Link.

Using a handheld video camera is also an option. They’re not as expensive as DSLR cameras and offer the added advantage of continued filming even when placed on a tripod—by comparison a DSLR switches off automatically after 30 minutes. We’d recommend the Sony ZV-10.

Don't rely on the audio-capturing functionality of your video equipment and instead record, and edit, each episode's audio footage independently of the video.
If you are just starting out, check out our recommendations in our posts on the best podcast equipment for every budget or the best video podcasting software.

Create a custom thumbnail image

Before you upload your episodes, you'll want to create a custom thumbnail, which is the tile image audiences see when browsing video platforms.

While YouTube and other platforms can automatically generate a thumbnail from a random moment in your video, you want to put your best foot forward. With 90% of the best-performing YouTube videos making use of custom thumbnails, why wouldn't you take the opportunity to create an attention-grabbing image that attracts viewers and best represents your episode?

Just be sure to adhere to all Community Guidelines and image dimensions.

There’s a lot more to perfecting your YouTube channel for maximum potential, but this at least gives you some to think on. If you’re ready to fix up your YouTube channel for a your new video podcast check out this blog.

To Video or Not to Video?

Humans are often visual creatures. We respond to facial expressions, connect more deeply with what we can see, and even place more trust in video-based advice than other mediums. Video podcasts allow us to build trust and authenticity, invite our audiences into the conversation, and make genuine connections with them.

Whether or not you think video podcasts are a passing trend or are here to redefine the industry, the decision to create one is, ultimately, up to you. And it's critical to consider your audience, branding, goals, and resources before you decide.