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7 January 2025
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The conversation offered a wealth of insights for aspiring podcasters, with Van Vliet sharing his personal experiences and hard-earned wisdom from years in the industry.
One of the key takeaways from the discussion was the importance of consistency in podcasting.
Van Vliet emphasized that many podcasts lose momentum after just a few episodes, a phenomenon often referred to as “pod fade.”
According to him, the average podcast fades after just seven episodes.
This is largely due to the fact that many people underestimate the amount of work required to produce a successful podcast.
From booking guests to editing and promoting each episode, podcasting demands a significant time investment.
Van Vliet’s advice to anyone considering starting a podcast is simple: start, and then keep going.
Consistency, he argues, is one of the most critical factors in building a successful show.
Van Vliet also discussed the challenges of content creation, particularly in an era where digital content is king.
He reflected on his journey from traditional media to digital platforms, noting how the transition requires not just technical skills but also a deep understanding of the new media landscape.
He shared a story about rushing to edit and upload interviews after the first AEW (All Elite Wrestling) event, highlighting the importance of speed in the digital age.
In the world of content creation, being first can be as important as being the best, and Van Vliet’s experience is a testament to this.
The conversation also touched on the evolution of interview techniques, particularly in the context of podcasting.
Van Vliet shared his experiences interviewing a wide range of personalities, from sports stars to Hollywood celebrities.
He noted the difference between in-person and virtual interviews, emphasizing that nothing beats the connection made during face-to-face interactions.
He shared a particularly memorable experience interviewing Magic Johnson, where the NBA legend’s genuine warmth and charisma left a lasting impression.
However, Van Vliet also acknowledged the challenges of interviewing uninterested or low-energy guests, a common occurrence in the world of podcasting.
The discussion inevitably turned to the broader shift from traditional broadcasting to digital content creation.
Van Vliet, who has a background in television, reflected on how the media landscape has changed.
Today, anyone with a smartphone can create content, but building a loyal audience remains a significant challenge.
Van Vliet pointed out that while social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok can help build an audience, converting that audience into podcast listeners is a different challenge altogether.
Listening to a podcast requires a much greater time commitment than scrolling through social media, which makes audience retention a critical issue for podcasters.
On a more personal note, Van Vliet shared updates on his life and career.
He is expecting a baby girl with his wife Rachel, and he has set himself the goal of getting into the best shape of his life before his 40th birthday.
These personal milestones are intertwined with his professional journey, illustrating how life and career often evolve together.
Van Vliet also expressed interest in expanding his career into TV hosting, sharing his aspirations to create his own show concept in the future.
Towards the end of the conversation, Van Vliet offered some practical advice for aspiring podcasters.
He emphasized the importance of making oneself available for opportunities and building relationships within the industry.
These relationships, he argued, are the foundation of a successful podcasting career.
He also encouraged O’Hara to continue pursuing interviews with high-profile guests, underscoring the importance of persistence and networking in the podcasting world.
The 600th episode of The OSHOW with Chris Van Vliet offered a deep dive into the world of podcasting, shedding light on both the best and worst aspects of the medium.
From the importance of consistency to the challenges of content creation, Van Vliet’s insights are invaluable for anyone looking to make their mark in the podcasting industry.
His journey is a powerful reminder that while podcasting can be demanding, it also offers unique opportunities for connection, creativity, and personal growth.
Credit: This article is based on insights from the 600th episode of The OSHOW featuring Chris Van Vliet, hosted by Jack O’Hara.
When you are ready to start your own podcast, join the Baird Media Podmaster program, and let Ethan and Hendrik give you all the help and support to start your own podcast.
You can also read Hendrik’s book, “Become a Podmaster: Everything You Need to Know to Master the Art of Podcasting” to help you understand what you are letting yourself in for.
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