Rising Creators Forum

I'm planning my podcast launch and trying to decide if I should record video or stick with audio only. i see a lot of podcasts on youtube now but video seems way more complicated

Is video worth the extra effort or should I focus on audio quality first?

Do video from day one. I wish i had

I started audio only and switched to video at episode 30. i regret not starting with video because:
- youtube is the second biggest podcast platform now
- video podcasts get way more reach than audio only
- you can repurpose video into clips for social media
- video builds stronger connection with audience

my growth comparison:
- audio only (episodes 1-30): grew to 250 subscribers
- added video (episodes 31-60): grew to 2,800 subscribers

youtube algorithm pushes podcast content hard right now. my podcast episodes on youtube get 10x more views than my audio downloads

setting up video isn't as hard as you think:
- camera: even a webcam or phone works to start
- lighting: $30 ring light or natural window light
- editing: can use free software like davinci resolve

yes it's more work but the growth potential is worth it. and you can always start simple and upgrade equipment as you grow

in 2025, not having video is leaving so much growth on the table

I've stayed audio only and i'm glad i did. here's why:

video adds massive complexity:
- you need to worry about appearance, background, lighting, camera angles
- editing takes 3-4x longer
- file sizes are huge
- you need more expensive equipment
- guests might be less willing to commit to video

my podcast works because:
- i can record anywhere (i've recorded episodes from my car, while traveling, etc)
- guests are more comfortable with audio only
- i can focus 100% on audio quality and content
- editing is fast so i can publish quickly
- listeners can consume while driving, working out, doing chores

podcast listeners specifically choose podcasts because they can multitask. video somewhat defeats that purpose

Also audio only podcasts feel more intimate. it's like having a conversation in your ear vs watching a video

if your podcast is interview-based or educational where visual elements matter, maybe video makes sense. if it's conversational or storytelling, audio only is perfectly fine

I have 5,000 loyal listeners and make money from my audio only podcast. video isn't mandatory for success