Podcasting With A Co-Host

Podcasting with a co-host can be a wonderful addition to many podcasts. There are a number of benefits to having more than one host for a podcast, however, podcasting with a co-host can offer some additional challenges as well. Here are some of the perks and pitfalls associated with a co-hosted podcast. In addition, we will discuss some of the logistics associated with podcasting with multiple hosts.

Perks

Discussion – Co-Hosting a podcast creates a different podcasting platform altogether from podcasting alone. The podcast itself takes on a feel of conversation and discussion. Even though the audience is not directly participating in the conversation, they feel as though they are involved in one. This is markedly different from podcasting with a single host in which the host speaks to an invisible audience.

Often times it is easier to incorporate humor into a podcast in which there is more than one participant. In depth discussions are more easily achieved by adding a different perspective or point of view. When looking for a podcast co-host it is important that look for someone who shares your interests but is able to offer differing opinions. If both podcast hosts are constantly agreeing and saying the same thing two different ways, then you are not capitalizing on all the benefits of having two podcast hosts.

Share the Load – For some it may prove difficult to carry the load of podcasting a 45-minute podcast alone. Having a co-host can provide you with additional resources to handle some of the workload that goes into producing a podcast. Tasks like, show prep, editing, publishing, promotion can be divided between the two hosts to lighten the load on an individual as well as the hosting duties for the episode.

Once the podcast has been published the two hosts can also share the responsibilities of responding to emails and comments, interacting with the listeners on various social media platforms and generating ongoing discussion about the podcast content on the website.

Pitfalls

One At A Time – It is imperative that you do not talk over each other. Having a lively discussion is great for a podcast, however, if both hosts are talking at the same time, talking over each other; you will quickly lose your audience as they are unable to clearly understand the conversation taking place.

Another pitfall to avoid is constant interruptions. Allow one host to finish a thought before interjecting.

Balanced Audio – As much as possible you should try to ensure that both you and your co-host have clear, crisp audio signals and that the volumes are properly balanced. Try to avoid having one host be excessively loud or soft compared to the other host.

Watch The Clock – If your target duration for your podcast is 45 minutes to an hour, it is important for both you and your co-host to keep track of the clock. When discussions start flowing it can be very easy to lose