When beginning to organize your podcast, one of the first things you will need to do is decide on a format for your show. Before you can name your podcast, design a cover or record your first episode, you have to choose a format. There are several options you can consider when trying to identify the best format for recording voice podcasts. Your choice is particularly important if your audience is in the Middle East, as 49% of regular podcast listeners surveyed from Saudi Arabia identified that they listen because of the storytelling nature of podcasts. No doubt, your podcast format style is very crucial and to get off to a good start, we have compiled some best podcast format you can try out:
The Interview Podcast Format
Each episode of an interview-style podcast features a host (or hosts) talking with a different expert or notable figure in the field. After introducing the episode’s guest, the host will ask follow-up questions to help further explore the episode’s theme and the guest’s personal experiences. “When Women Win” is a podcast that exemplifies this idea. This show celebrates extraordinary women by having them tell their personal stories and impart their wisdom to the next generation. Another example is “The Matrix Green Pill Podcast”, a Dubai and UAE podcast that interviews inspiring guests who share details about their journey.
Non-Fictional Storytelling Podcast Format
Actual-life occurrences are the focus of “non-fictional” podcast episodes. Those interested in expanding their knowledge of the world can benefit significantly from this podcast format. To give others a chance to learn about new things, to inform them of something new. An example is “The Matrix Green Pill Podcast.” Every week, the hosts bring their listeners stories that will move and inspire them. They highlight the fascinating lives of real people making a positive impact, such as business owners and innovators who are reshaping the region’s future.
Co-Host Conversational
This involves two hosts on a podcast show. Each host usually has a designated function during the course of the discussion. The Dukkan Show is one such program. The hosts are Omar Tom (aka OT), Reem Hameed, and Mohamed Akkaoui. The hosts, all of whom live in the United Arab Emirates, tell stories from their daily lives, have well-known guests appear on the show, and discuss personal problems that listeners in other parts of the region will no doubt identify with.
Educational Podcast Format
An educational podcast may take the form of an interview or a casual discussion on a particular topic, but its primary goal is to impart knowledge on that subject. In this regard, feMENA serves as an illustration. feMENA is a feminist podcast that airs every other week and discusses women’s rights in the MENA region (MENA). Topics covered on the show includes sexuality, politics, marginalized communities, and sex law.
Bite-sized Content/ Limited Series Podcast Format
To keep lessons/stories brief, one can create episodes that are only available for a limited time or series that will only run for some episodes. The “Hamburger Generation” is a typical example of this podcast. This comedic series tells the stories of Arabs who are immigrants or expats to the United States from the perspective of their second generations. The term “hamburger generation” was coined by Arab parents to describe their children who have become Westernized.
Best Audio File Format For Podcast
Podcasts can be disseminated in various audio file formats, including MP3, WAV, and others. In this field, the “MP3” format is often the standard. Virtually any modern media player, including smartphones, tablets, and Internet-connected televisions, can play files in this format. However, WAV outputs high-quality, editable audio. When deciding whether MP3 or WAV is better for your podcast, it’s essential to consider the format and the people who listen to it.
As you might expect, your podcast will take on many characteristics depending on the format you decide to use. This will help you decide what to cover, who to have on, and how you’ll organize your time (and that of any collaborators) as you produce and release episodes.
