Let’s Talk About the Podcast Video Glow-Up (and Why It’s Kinda Fake)

I said what I said: a fancy studio won’t save a boring convo.

May 16, 2025

When I first launched my podcast, it was with a mic, a laptop, in my closet with a TV tray and a mission: to tell real stories that resonate. Not to go viral. Not to look polished for the camera. Just to connect. Somewhere along the way, though, the podcasting world started chasing the illusion of fame and I think we need to talk about it.

This opinion might be controversial, and sure, some may find it ironic. But here it is: podcasts are not TV talk shows, and we need to stop treating them like they are.

Yes, I release video versions of my own show. But I do it for one reason: accessibility. My episodes include captions on YouTube and Spotify, and transcripts are available on Apple Podcasts. These tools didn’t always exist, but as they’ve become available, I’ve adapted. Because inclusion matters.

What I didn’t do is start pretending my podcast needed to look like a late-night set or a cable news panel.

Right now, many big-name shows are being filmed in sleek studios or performed live on stages. But is all of that necessary? Absolutely not. And let’s be honest—it costs a fortune. So why are people doing it?

Sometimes it’s ego. Sometimes it’s the illusion that a glossier production equals a more successful show. But here’s the truth: a beautiful set means nothing if the content doesn’t land. You can have the best videographer and a six-figure studio budget, but if the conversation is flat, people won’t stick around. Podcasts that matter are built on connection, not spectacle.

And while I’m here can we talk about the latest trend that drives me nuts? Podcast hosts filming themselves reading off iPads. It’s awkward. It breaks the flow of natural conversation. And honestly? If you're already shelling out for full production, at least spring for a teleprompter. Because what we’re watching isn’t a conversation—it's a performance. And podcasting was never meant to be that.

We need to get back to basics.

Podcasts are about voice. About truth. About human connection. They’re not auditions for TV deals or attempts to go viral on TikTok. They’re opportunities to share real stories in a format that meets people where they are—on a walk, in the car, in the quiet moments between life’s chaos.

Let’s focus on what matters: audio quality, intentional interviews, accessibility, and conversations that actually move people.

And if you’re going to launch a podcast, do it with purpose. Not because you want to be a star. But because you have something to say—and you want people to feel seen when they hear it.

No BS Checklist For Intentional Podcasting

1. Know your why.
Are you podcasting to build connection, share stories, educate, or elevate voices? If your answer is “go viral” or “build a brand fast,” pause.

2. Prioritize the listener experience.
Is your content valuable, compelling, and clear—without the visuals? Ask yourself: would someone still love this episode on a walk or commute?

3. Make your content accessible.
Use captions, transcripts, and readable formats. Inclusion isn’t a nice-to-have—it’s essential.

4. Focus on conversation over performance.
Ditch the script when possible. Be present, listen deeply, and respond with intention. The best moments are never planned.

5. Invest in sound, not set design.
Good audio builds trust. Crisp mic quality beats mood lighting every time. Check out my Podcast PSA about the Blue Yeti mic on Instagram!

6. Edit with integrity, not perfection.
Clean up the noise, not the truth. Leave in the human moments—they’re what make a podcast worth listening to. My kids and dog have made appearances. Life happens!

7. Respect your audience’s time.
Value clarity over rambling. Purpose over padding. Not every episode needs to be 60 minutes, nor should they be that long!

8. Promote with purpose, not pressure.
Don’t just market your show—share why it matters. Invite people into the story, not just the stream.

Podcast Guest Questions

This week’s question from authors (and honestly, most guests):
“How do I prepare for the video part of a podcast interview?”

It’s a little ironic that I’m answering this right after ranting about the overproduction of podcasts—but here’s the truth: showing up video ready can be useful. Why? Because video clips often get turned into social media reels that help promote both you and the show.

But don’t overthink it. Here’s what matters:

✨ Show up as yourself.
If you don’t normally wear makeup, skip it. Be comfortable and authentic.

👕 Wear solid colors if possible.
Avoid stripes or wild patterns—they can be distracting or glitchy on screen.

🔕 Skip noisy accessories.
Bangles, layered necklaces, or anything that jingles? Leave them off.

And remember—there’s an entire section on this in How To Get On Podcasts where I break it down step by step.

Show up ready to connect, not perform. That’s the energy that gets remembered—and replayed.

What I’m Reading & Listening To

This week I finished It’s A Love Story by Annabel Monaghan and it was funny, refreshing and also made me cry!

I’m feeling a bit behind in my reading, so there are a number of books I started two more this week.

Songs of Summer by Jane L. Rosen

Fired Up by Shannon Watts

Listening wise, I currently have Benson Boone on repeat!

My Simplified Life Podcast

You might remember Rosey Lee from her interview last year when her debut novel, The Gardins of Edin, came out. Rosey’s sophomore novel, A Gardin Wedding came out this week and takes us right back to the Gardin women and as the title implies…there’s a wedding this time! I told Rosey that I feel her books are the perfect combination of Hallmark movies meet Real Housewives!

#311 A Gardin Wedding with Rosey Lee

Steph and I discussed some truths about the publishing industry based on what we’ve both seen along with how we’ve both felt imposter syndrome and the ultimate why behind writing a book.

#312 Booked & Unfiltered: Publishing Truths, Personal Stories & Why Every Book Matters