top of page

Evolving from Broadcaster to Podcaster

Writer's picture: Jazzy TJazzy T

Welcome back to Sound Advice! Over the past few weeks, we’ve explored game-changing insights for podcast creators, including:


Today, I want to dive into how I evolved from being a Broadcaster to a Podcaster.




Have you ever wondered why radio shows can keep millions of listeners coming back daily, while some podcasts struggle to gain traction? The answer lies in the timeless principles of audio storytelling—principles I’ve spent my career mastering.


As a radio broadcaster for the past 25 years and principal producer at JazzCast Pros podcast Network, I’ve seen how the best practices of traditional radio can elevate podcasting to new heights.


In my conversation with Kevin Chemidlin on Grow the Show, we explore how lessons from my radio career—like building consistency, creating audience trust, and mastering pacing—translate into podcasting success. 


Whether you're a radio enthusiast turned podcast host or simply curious about creating content that resonates, these insights could transform the way you approach your show.




The Evolution of Sound: From Radios to Podcasts


Long before podcasts became the dominant form of on-demand audio, radio was the reigning king of the airwaves. It connected communities, delivered essential news, and inspired imagination through “theater of the mind.”


Podcasting, rooted in the rich history of radio, has emerged as a dynamic platform for content creators.... but I wasn't always a fan.


To be honest, I never listened to a podcast before I was asked to produce one! 

Podcasting was the enemy to broadcasters like me because so many of our "loyal listeners" started switching to on-demand forms of audio instead of the radio.


Fast forward five years and here I am running a podcast network while continuing to host the #1 afternoon radio show in Rochester on WDKX-FM. 


Podcasting allows creators to express themselves without the rigid rules of radio, offering a canvas for authenticity and creativity. But how do you harness the legacy of radio without being confined by it?




Embrace the Freedom: When No Rules Lead to Better Content

The beauty of podcasting lies in its freedom—no FCC regulations, no rigid time slots, no corporate constraints.

Podcasting allows the hosts to completely be themselves. You’re free to weave your story, use expressive language, and lean into your personality.

This freedom invites authenticity, which is podcasting’s superpower. Unlike traditional radio, podcasting isn’t about a polished, announcer-style delivery. Instead, it thrives on genuine, conversational energy. The goal isn’t perfection; it’s connection.


But this freedom doesn’t mean abandoning structure altogether. A podcast episode should feel like a well-guided conversation rather than aimless chatter.


Finding that balance is key:

🎧 Plan ahead with clear goals and key takeaways.

💬 Speak naturally, like you’re chatting with a friend.

🔥 Start with a hook that grabs attention immediately.





Lessons from Broadcast Radio: What Every Podcaster Should Know

Broadcast radio has influenced podcasting in profound ways, and there are timeless principles podcasters can use to elevate their craft:


1️⃣ Speak to Your Listener Avatar In radio, we’re trained to speak directly to the listener by using the word YOU rather than ya'll or you guys. This personal connection is just as crucial in podcasting because podcast listening is generally a solo experience. When you talk to your audience as though you’re speaking to one person, you create an intimate bond that keeps them coming back. Learn more on that here

2️⃣ Consistency Builds Trust Radio thrives on reliability. Listeners tune in at the same time every day because they know what to expect. Similarly, podcasters who maintain a consistent publishing schedule build trust and loyalty with their audience.

3️⃣ Every Second Counts In radio, airtime is precious, and every second must deliver value. The same principle applies to podcasting. By planning episodes carefully and avoiding rambling, you can hold your audience’s attention from start to finish.


Unlike a radio show, a podcast episode does not have to be the same length week after week. There’s no such thing as too long or too short—only too boring. If I find myself losing focus during an interview, it’s a sign the conversation needs to be redirected or brought to a close. If I’m not engaged, how can I expect my listeners to be?


Avoiding Common Pitfalls

🎵 Overproduced Intros Don’t Work When I launched my first podcast, I hired a professional announcer to create a polished intro. I thought it mirrored the branding of traditional radio. Big mistake. Listeners wanted to hear from me, not “the announcer guy.” Once I switched to starting each episode with a juicy highlight, listener retention improved

dramatically.

Lesson learned: Lead with value, and hook your audience from the start.


🔍 Don’t Go Too Broad Traditional radio casts a wide net, covering multiple topics to appeal to a general audience. Podcasting, on the other hand, thrives on specificity. Instead of trying to please everyone, focus deeply on your niche. This allows you to connect with a targeted, loyal audience. For instance, rather than a quick segment on health tips, a podcast can dedicate an entire episode to “How to Stay Fit While Managing a Busy Career.”




Mastering Production: Finding the Sweet Spot

While creative freedom is a hallmark of podcasting, it’s not a license for endless tangents. Over-editing can strip your episodes of vibrancy, but a lack of structure can result in a disorganized mess. Finding the balance between spontaneity and structure is crucial.


Early in my podcasting journey, I fell into the trap of overproducing. I wanted everything to sound perfect—like a polished radio broadcast. But podcast listeners value authenticity over perfection. Kevin and I agreed during our conversation:


Keep it dynamic. Don’t be afraid to let conversations flow naturally, but know when to step in and redirect the energy.

Final Thoughts: Blending Two Worlds

Podcasting offers an incredible opportunity to blend the polish of traditional radio with the authenticity of modern storytelling. By understanding your audience, maintaining consistency, and embracing the creative freedom of this medium, you can create content that resonates on a global scale.


Whether you’re a seasoned broadcaster or a new podcaster, there’s always room to grow. Take these lessons, adapt them to your style, and find your voice in this evolving landscape.


Ready to Take Your Podcast to the Next Level?

At JazzCast Pros, we’re on a mission to help creators amplify their voices and make meaningful impacts. We offer podcast coaching, development, and post-production services tailored for business owners who want to build communities through podcasting.


Sign Up for our Newsletter on LinkedIn to receive weekly tips from podcast producers and hosts! Together, let’s create a podcast that doesn't sound like you just recorded your radio broadcast and threw it up on the Internet!


Comments


JazzCast Landing_edited.jpg
I Heard it on a Podcast Newsletter
              Weekly Tips in Your Inbox
  • Facebook Page

Welcome to the JazzCast Family! Check your email to get started.

© 2022 JazzCast Pros

bottom of page