How Podcasting Can Empower Christian Broadcasters, Churches, and Nonprofits

You are a voice of inspiration and guidance, whether that’s on-air or live streaming. Podcasting is a medium that can allow you to take those conversations even deeper. Let’s talk about how podcasting can empower you to impact more lives.

If You Only Had More Time…

Have you ever said, “If I only had more time…” A few more minutes to dive deep into the topic you’re sharing or teaching. Well, podcasting allows you more time to prepare, script, and even re-record parts to make sure every word you broadcast is exactly how you hoped for. But beware. People tend to tune in more to podcasts that aren’t super polished. They feel more real and relatable. More natural and less scripted can feel more authentic. Also, aim for your listeners to be part of a conversation. Don’t simply speak at them.

Creating Content That Resonates

Here are some ideas to help get your thoughts turning for a podcast:

• Morning Devotionals: Invite people to start the day with a short devo. This would be a solo podcast where you share daily devotions or reflections.
• Community Stories: This could be a weekly podcast where you feature a member of your congregation or a leader from another organization. Giving them the opportunity to tell their story. Like challenges and victories that will inspire others.
• Teaching Tuesdays: Teachers may love this idea. Quick teaching moments that people could listen to on the go. Break down topics into actionable lessons. Remember to invite your audience to be part of the conversation. Don’t simply speak at them.
• Thursday Roundtables: This would be a group podcast approach. Bring together people from your community to discuss local topics. Picture this as a gathering of friends coming together to chat it up.

Always consider what your audience enjoys too. Explore different podcast styles. It may help you find the right format for you and your audience. Below are some popular styles:

• Interview Podcasts: One-on-one interviews with guests who have experiences to share.
• Solo: This is a one-person show. Usually, the host discusses topics more in-depth.
• Storytelling: People love a good storyteller. This style may be effective for testimonials, missions stories, etc.
• Educational: This one is probably pretty straight forward. Ideal for teaching skills or concepts. Like discipleship, devotions, or leadership mentorship.
• News and Trends: Share the latest news. Niche down to your specific industry. Great way to keep your listeners up-to-date on changes and hot trends.
• Themed Series Podcasts: Themed Series are sometimes known as limited series. I’ve seen some to themed series on books of the Bible or a Character.
• Live Podcasts: We know that broadcasting live episodes can engage listeners directly. It can also add an element of spontaneity and excitement to the podcast. Get real-time audience interaction through questions and comments. New technologies, like the Metaverse, can open up more avenues too. We host our podcast in front of a live audience. You can check out our podcast “New Horizons” recorded live at the Killer Bee Studios to get a feel of this style.

Take time to choose the right style for you. Consider your strengths and your content.

Listen When You Want, Where You Want, & Indexable

Podcasting allows you to meet your listeners right where they are. That could be during their morning workout, driving to work, or as they wrap up their day. They can tune in when it fits into their life. Imagine a busy mom trying to juggle her schedule. Your podcast could help her stay spiritually nourished by listening while she runs errands. That’s the power of podcasting. ?

Plus, if you plan out your content delivery, every episode you produce may become a part of your digital library for people to find for years to come. If you lean towards creating content that’s evergreen, with the right research and SEO, episodes could reach people around the world for a long time.

More Meaningful Connections

Podcasts can help strengthen the bond with your audience. Whether those are your on-air listeners, off-air. Your congregation or nonprofit supporters. Consider the “give” approach. Your listeners can tell if your podcast is designed to give something to them or if your goal is to take something from them. The give approach can establish a loyal community that tunes in more frequently. While the “take” approach could lead to people tuning out quickly.

Remember that podcasting isn’t just about expanding your reach. It’s a medium that can deepen your connections, and build trust. See it as a way to speak directly to the hearts of your audience in a new way. If you’re curious about starting a podcast or want to learn how podcasting can fit into your existing communications strategy, let’s chat. At Killer Bee Marketing, we’re all about helping you make that connection and helping your message be heard