Why You Should Batch Record Your Podcast
Looking to build your loyal listenership? One of the best ways to keep your listeners coming back to your podcast is by maintaining a consistent release schedule. Sticking to a schedule encourages audience loyalty because listeners will continue to check in with your podcast on a regular basis; the buildup of anticipation is generated as they learn they can expect consistent content from you. One of the best ways to maintain a regular schedule is by batch recording.
What is Batch Recording?
At StudioPod, we like to call batch recording “money in the bank!” Batch recording is the process of preparing content, scheduling interviews, and recording/finalizing several episodes in advance. You can do this by recording multiple episodes in one sitting or through the span of several days. It offers podcast creators room for flexibility when the unexpected happens or when it’s time to take a vacation. For example, if you record two episodes in one week for a weekly podcast, you can take a break the following week.You could also save that extra episode and use it when you need a break some other time.
The Benefits of Batch Recording
Batch recording helps you get ahead of your content calendar. It takes the pressure off the podcaster who must also focus on publishing and marketing. By knocking out multiple recordings at once, you can use your time to focus on other elements of the podcast development process such as promoting upcoming episodes, creating content to extend the reach of your podcast overall, and developing new content ideas.
Batch recording also allows you to be more flexible with your calendar. For example, if an exclusive guest you’ve been patiently waiting to come on your podcast is hard to accommodate, having a backlog of recorded episodes would ensure that you have the freedom to adjust your availability. Should emergencies or last minute fires arise, batch recordings allow you to stay on a consistent schedule. .
Through strategic scheduling, you can bring more energy to your batch recording sessions. You can complete multiple recordings for an extended period of time when you know you won’t be bogged down with other tasks and responsibilities and when your body and mind are naturally most motivated. This allows you to focus on being present and feel ready to go . StudioPod co-founder TJ Bonaventura is a big proponent of this strategy and found some great insights and advice on how to make the most of your natural energy patterns in the New York Times Bestselling book, When: The Scientific Secrets of Perfect Timing by Daniel H. Pink.
If you’re working with a studio, it may make more sense economically to book a session at a day rate and knock out a bunch of episodes at once rather than booking multiple, shorter sessions.One quick caveat: Batch recording works best for evergreen content rather than current events, so keep that in mind as you plan your episodes and recordings.
Bonus Pro Tip: If you have an interview that is running over but the content is valuable, or you are talking about a subject that needs more time to elaborate on, consider breaking it up into a two (or more) part episode; that's two birds with one stone...money in the bank!