The best branded podcast formats!

Although branded podcasts have been around for a while, some formats still don't align with the content or target audience. However, podcasts provide a unique opportunity for brands and should not be ignored in favor of other mediums such as TV, YouTube, or Instagram. If you're looking for inspiration, we have compiled a brief article outlining the most popular formats to consider for your brand's podcast. Whether you're in the planning stages or seeking ideas to enhance your current podcast, this article will provide valuable insights. If you're still unsure, keep reading - we're confident you'll be convinced!

Contents

1. The "Solo" podcast format
2. The "Interview" format
3. The non-fiction podcast format
4. The "Fiction Narrative" podcast format
5. The "Hybrid" podcast format

1. The "Solo" podcast format

At the top of this list is the "solo podcast" format, and in fact this is probably the most common podcast style!

Why is the solo podcast format the most popular?

Simply because it's easy to set up.

A simplified production process of an episode

Unlike the other formats (which you'll find out more about below), the solo format is the least restrictive.CQFD, with only one voice to represent your brand, we only need to find one speaker, and you're off and running! (Forget long, tedious castings!)So, back and forth is smoother, changes are easier to make, and production time is much faster.

A variety of solo format options

You don't have to follow just one option. This format offers countless possibilities for tackling a theme such as :

• An episode based on solo commentaries or monologues,
• Fiction and non-fiction narration,
• The creation of questions- answers exercises linked to issues clearly identified upstream.

What makes it difficult to create a solo podcast?

It's easy to forget because creating a solo podcast is extremely simple. However, it does require a certain discipline: "Without specific talent on the part of the host, listeners will quickly give up on the idea of listening to your podcast. "Content and style must go hand in hand :

• Passionate,
• Dynamic,
• Unique.

Unfortunately, when you're alone in front of your microphone, this task isn't so easy to accomplish (this is the Calliope experience!).

Most listeners tune in to podcasts to hear someone talk, not read!

Another element that will determine the success of your podcast. If what you say into the microphone sounds scripted, like dictation, or like a TV presenter on a teleprompter, you're doomed.

Alternative to the solo format: the "co-created" podcast format

If you don't feel like going solo, the co-presented podcast option is available to you.This type of duo podcast often arises naturally by :

• Passion for a subject,
• Chemistry between them,
• Hobbies.

Why does the co-hosted podcast work?

Collaboration between two individuals can generate content that is more valuable, filled with insightful tips and engaging anecdotes. Also, it is a lot more fun for the hosts. The audience has more incentive to pay attention, especially if they are drawn to your expertise or unique perspective.

• Natural chemistry
• Offbeat humor on topics that interest you,
• A disruptive point of view on the issues you're passionate about.

Spreading the workload

Lack of time, lack of desire, lack of creative ideas... Many people abandon their podcasts along the way! That's where podcast co-creation comes in: you now have a partner who can take on some of the work involved in making your podcast a success.

2. The "Interview" podcast format

Many famous individuals, influencers, and experts have adopted the interview style for various reasons. Firstly, it provides them with the opportunity to meet and interact with numerous people. Secondly, it enables them to delve deeply into topics that they are accustomed to discussing in private.

Is it necessary to be a celebrity to utilize the podcast interview format?

Of course not - your network, no matter how small, will do the trick - just think for 30 seconds, you've probably got a colleague, a family member, a friend, a friend of a friend, who specializes in a particular subject - and what's more, they'll often be delighted to share their knowledge and expertise and connect with your audience.

How do I know if the podcast interview format is right for me?

The interview format is an excellent choice if you have a :

• A topic that responds to expert comments,
• Can feed off a variety of opinions,
• To which many people can contribute.

What does the podcast interview format require?

This format requires the host to have :

• Excellent interviewing skills,
• Research skills,
• Excellent listening skills, which are a must if you want to be an excellent interviewer.

That's right... Here's an example of the Interview format, from the Brittany Region and its DEMI-SEL program:

Add to that the idea that you must :

• Continuously find profiles to interview,
• Validate their relevance,
• Get them interested in the project,
• Check their availability.

Alternative to the Interview format: the "Guest panel" format

During your work, you may encounter individuals who share your passion for your field, such as friends, colleagues, and acquaintances. These individuals may offer valuable insights, tools, and advice. What if these conversations could be shared with others? This is the idea behind the "guest panel" format, which differs from the traditional interview format.

What is the benefit of the "guest panel" format?

And if you get the :

• Good mix of characters,
• Viewpoints,
• The dynamics,
• The right kind of humor.

You're sure to convince your listeners, episode after episode, to keep tuning in.

What are the difficulties of the "guest panel" format?

Manage speakers availability

Although attractive, the "guest panel" format also has its share of problems. Think about it: will you be able to coordinate your speakers more than once a month? It already seems more complicated (even if they're friends!).

Managing the mix of personalities

Picture yourself at the bar with friends: depending on the subject, tensions can rise and tempers can flare to the point where it's difficult to hear one another. So imagine how an hour-long discussion in a podcast would play out in these conditions.

How do you ensure that the "guest panel" format runs smoothly?

It can be frustrating for listeners when certain voices dominate and monopolize the conversation, making it difficult to hear others.

• Make sure you select your speakers carefully,
• Set a communication rule,
• Select a moderator to prevent overflow.

3. The non-fiction podcast format

The majority of "true crime" podcasts fall into this category.Very popular, this non-fiction storytelling format is often delivered in a particular format.An audio documentary, which reveals a single event or a true original story, over several episodes (Yes, like a telenovela).

How do I know if the "non-fiction story" format is for me?

Ask yourself these questions: do I know a story that should be told? do I have a knack for solving mysteries? Do I have the gift of solving mysteries? If you answer yes to both of these questions, then you can consider this format. Nevertheless, this podcast format will require you to :

• Develop advanced research skills,
• Be clear, coherent, and enthusiastic in your storytelling.

4. The "Fiction Narrative" podcast format

If you like to tell stories, then this format is for you. Already adopted by the Marvel franchise, this format is very popular with media, TV and movie stars.

Why is fiction so popular with brands?

With the help of a good copywriter, what if you were able to :

• Bringing your brand to life?
• Make your audience travel to the heart of your universe?
• Create a community around your fiction?

This immersive format offers a direct way to engage your community by allowing you to add elements that fully immerse them:

• Sound effects,
• Background music,
• A variety of voices.

Currently, this format is ideal for telling a captivating story in an innovative way, such as :

• Dior with its Dior Tales program,

• like Bureau Veritas, which shows its involvement in people's lives through its stories,

• or LMDE (La Mutuelle Des Étudiants), which recounts real-life situations with "Les Dreamers".

5. The "Hybrid" podcast format

I imagine that some of you currently feel that your podcast idea fits into different formats... At the same time! Far from being a "classic" podcast format, the hybrid format offers flexibility throughout your show:

• Include solo segments and sections featuring a panel of guests,
• A non-fiction storytelling section that also includes guest interviews,
• Sometimes, scripted fiction includes elements that transition into improvisation.

And these are just a few examples - it's up to you to be creative and create your own unique podcast format!

"A hybrid format can combine any of the formats on this list".

What should I bear in mind when choosing the hybrid format?

Cohesion... That's the magic word here! Stay consistent with the choice of podcast format combinations you implement. Just like the taste in a chef's dish, the combination of podcast formats you choose should not negatively impact the overall experience for your listeners. It's important to avoid confusion and instead provide your audience with a reason to stay engaged. Utilizing a hybrid podcast format can add value and make your content even more appealing to listeners:

• SNCF Réseau with "Entre Les Lignes"

• and Bouygues Bâtiment with SONOPOLIS.

Do you want more?

To find out how we have responded to various marketing and brand content challenges by producing original audio content, take a look at our Case studies!

Avner UZAN