Live Streaming vs. Podcasting: What Broadcasters Need to Know

Brands and organizations in today’s digital industry are always looking for new methods of interaction with their audiences. Two successful strategies that are currently being intensively followed are live streaming and podcasting. Knowing the specific features and functions of different mediums is essential for broadcasters. Their goals are to establish stronger ties with their audience and a more substantial online presence.

In this blog, we will go over the various facets of live streaming and podcasting. We will also consider what advantages they carry along with best practices to guide you in deciding options suitable to your broadcast needs. 

How do you define a podcast?  

A podcast is a digital audio file or series of files that can be streamed or downloaded. It typically focuses on a particular topic or a theme. Podcasts are often released in episodes. This means, the creators get to explore their chosen subject in-depth and share it with their listeners on-demand. 

Also, podcasts can feature ads and sponsorship and are widely used for entertainment, education or promotional purposes!. 

What exactly is a Live Stream?  

A live stream is considered a type of broadcasting that is practically recorded and viewed synchronously on the web. Most brands and organizations have resorted to live streaming apps because it enables them to connect with their audience in a face-to-face manner. A live stream enables the business to have enjoyable entertainment areas. With the most advanced equipment today, video is transmitted and received with little to no delay during a live stream.

A live streaming app is often used to allow remote attendees to be part of live events. Generally, both podcasts and live streams rely on the internet as a medium for delivery. They can be hosted and offered either through a private or public website. 

What Makes Live Streaming Different from Podcasting with Video? 

Creating a podcast with video means developing a podcast where visual media plays a role in assisting communication together with audio. This means of communication lets the audience enjoy listening to the podcast while being able to watch the podcasters.

On the flip side, live streaming uses the internet to share video information in real time. Thus, viewers enjoy a life-like experience. Top streaming software is the best tool for online institutional meetings, classes and shows. This allows other participants to attend a meeting or a concert while it is happening.

The major characteristic that distinguishes one from another is the time of content delivery. Podcasts are pre-recorded, but live streams are broadcast online. Each platform offers different forms of engagement with them and helps users use them for different purposes.

Why should you start a podcast?  

1. Accessibility and Convenience 

Podcasts are very accessible and convenient for their listeners. They can consume their content anytime and anywhere. 

2. Flexibility for Long-Form Content 

Podcasts are a platform that can handle long-form formats. Unlike other social media networks, this enables artists to go deeper into issues.

 3. Monetization Opportunities 

Live podcasting platform offers sponsorship and advertising opportunities to make revenues. Therefore, it has become a way for those who use it to earn money.

 4. Cost-Effective Audio Streaming 

Audio podcast streaming is cheaper and more user-friendly than video streaming. Therefore, it is the perfect choice to engage with an audience through audio. 

5. Community Building 

Podcasts are incredibly helpful tools for community building. They give producers a platform to interact with the people they target.

How to Begin a Podcast

1. Make a Plan

 You must start by selecting a focus and determining your target audience. Afterward, you need to set objectives and decide on regularity. Lastly, decide whether you will invite any guests to your show or not.

 2. Configure Your Podcasting Setup 

You must choose a hosting setup and acquire podcasting equipment like a microphone and computer. You have to ensure that you have a quiet recording space with good acoustics. 

3. Record an Episode

 You need to compose your thoughts and start recording your first episode. Stay on track and cover all planned content.

 4. Edit and Upload 

After recording, edit your episode as desired and upload it to your podcast streaming service or video hosting platform. 

5. Publish and Launch Your Podcast 

Press “Publish” to launch your podcast. Expand the audience for your podcast by interacting with them and promoting it on social media. 

Professional vs. Public Podcast Streaming Services 

There are two main approaches to hosting podcasts. The first is uploading podcasts on a public podcast streaming platform. The other option is to use a professional service to host your podcast and integrate the audio player into your website or mobile application. Publicly available platforms like Apple and Google Podcasts and Spotify are user-friendly and often free for listeners. However, they have particular restrictions on content and adverts.

Online distributors such as Dacast offer more in-built control features. It allows you to embed the audio player on your website or mobile app. Although there is a higher level of complexity and cost, professional hosting will give you full control over your content and a more professional flavor. A strategic plan will vary depending on the purpose of your podcast and the results you are aspiring to achieve. 

Quality Platforms for Podcast Hosting

 Various professional platforms exist to offer alternative hosting solutions to top podcast streaming services. It offers extra control and flexibility that is not available with the basic streaming solution. Some popular options include: Dacast is an embedded custom audio player that allows podcasters to put their websites and apps. Libsyn comprises podcast hosting, distribution, and monetization functionality. Blubrry enables podcast hosting and gives you statistics and WordPress plugins for your website. Buzzsprout simplifies podcast hosting and distribution with features such as audio mastering.

Such popular podcast platforms give creators even more control over the content and branding while maintaining the capability to publish to the most popular podcast directories. 

To sum it up

Live streaming services and podcasting are considered two effective tools that can enhance the relationship of broadcasters with their audiences in a unique and exciting manner. Although they both give room for monetization and community dynamics, they differ remarkably in format and distribution modes.

In podcasting, you can explore an extensive, time-permitting topic, while live streaming carries a more engaging and instant effect. Broadcasters can select the best option for their audience and aim by understanding the advantages and disadvantages of the various media types.