The Art of Podcasting By Elissa Tracy
As the new year unfolds with calendars, goals, and agendas, the pursuit of joy extends to various forms of entertainment. The latest Golden Globe Awards underscores an ongoing list of new entertainment to watch. However, beyond movies, TV series, watch lists, and the top-selling books, the world of podcasts emerges as a captivating avenue worth exploring. Previously known from the 1980’s as “autoblogs”, podcasting as we know it now with internet and portable digital audio devices took hold in late 2004. Podcasting in its current state, has skyrocketed into one of the countries favorite pastimes unraveling an artistry behind this audio-centric form of storytelling.
All of us are dominated by visual stimulation through screens, podcasts offer a return to the roots of entertainment. Before screens became our primary source of engagement, books and radio captivated our imagination. Podcasts revive the charm of radio shows, enabling listeners to engage their pictographic minds while going about their daily routines.
Breathing new life into the essence of radio, primarily talk radio, providing a platform for long-form storytelling and discussions. Unlike traditional radio, podcasts grant listeners control over their content, choosing topics aligned with their interests and curating personalized listening experiences, however long the listening time may be. This personalized approach enhances the fun of discovering and consuming information. Tailored content for every listener ensures a diverse array of topics, from true crime to self-improvement, comedy, storytelling and the ever explosive topic of politics. The accessibility and on-demand nature of podcasts empower individuals to curate their entertainment experiences, making them ideal companions for those with hectic schedules and long commutes.
Movies and TV series usually require focused stationary attention to absorb the storyline and characters. One must pay attention to not only the scene and editing transitions, flashbacks, body language, and facial expressions. With a podcasting series, you rely on sounds, the cadence of one's voice, rhythm, and emphasis on one's words. Of course, there are many podcasts you can watch as well as listen to, but I'm referring primarily to relying on listening and one's own imagination during a podcast experience. Using one’s imagination is a lost art in itself!
Podcasts aren't just about entertainment; they serve as valuable learning tools. From expert interviews to in-depth discussions, podcasts offer a wealth of information on diverse topics, empowering listeners to expand their knowledge in a convenient and engaging manner. It’s a form of storytelling that relies on the power of sound. Exploring the techniques behind crafting compelling narratives, from scriptwriting to sound design, showcases the artistry that goes into creating an immersive auditory experience. Additionally, the extended format allows for in-depth conversations, fostering a sense of connection between hosts and listeners.
Every new year brings a sense of new things to be busy with, and it's hard to work everything in in one day. Trying out podcasting, with its diverse offerings and immersive experiences, can be enjoyed during a commute, doing chores, working out, cooking, etc. In the years to come, it is most likely a testament to the enduring art of storytelling. It invites us to explore the boundless worlds that podcasts unfold, one episode at a time, celebrating the revival of audio entertainment in a visually saturated world.