#34: Podcast Formats as a Strategic Choice

In this episode, Ed Barker, founder of Studio 1878, talks about why choosing a podcast format is a strategic decision rather than a creative one. He explains how the right format influences the sustainability and operational load of a podcast. Barker outlines various formats like loose conversational interviews, structured interviews, narrative storytelling, and co-hosted conversations, discussing their respective pros and cons. He emphasizes that an ill-informed format choice can lead to burnout, inconsistency, and ultimately, failure to build an audience. By understanding the demands of each format, podcast creators can make informed decisions that lead to a more coherent and sustainable show.

00:00 Introduction: Format as Strategy

00:47 What Format Determines

01:19 Format Examples in Practice

02:30 Why Interviews Become the Default

03:14 The Booking Trap

04:37 Guest-Led Trade-offs

05:53 Where the Thinking Happens

06:07 Single Host Monologue

06:48 Co-Hosted Conversation

07:52 Structured Interview Format

08:45 Narrative or Reported Format

09:46 Why to Avoid Panel Shows

10:43 Why Constraints Make Shows Better

12:10 Format and Sustainability

13:18 Format as a Positioning Tool

13:58 Questions to Ask About Format

14:45 Wrap-up and Next Episode