Why Every Podcaster Should Consider Live Shows

This is an archived page from 2019. Find out more

(Robin Kinnie) Podcasts ranging from Lip Service to Girl Gang are doing something that all podcasts should consider – hosting live shows on tour. I’ve seen two billboards advertising a podcast tour coming to Detroit in the last month. Most podcasters don’t consider doing a live show because they think they’re not ready or their audience isn’t large enough. However, I’m here to tell you that all podcasters should consider adding live shows to their toolbox.

Check out the reasons why:

1. Live Shows are a great way to connect with your audience. In the age of social media, we are able to connect with anyone worldwide. However, there’s nothing like meeting face-to-face. This gives loyal listeners the opportunity to meet you and gives you the opportunity to learn more about your listeners.

2. Live shows can help monetize your podcast. Besides being able to meet your audience in person, live shows can generate money to support the production of your podcast. You can charge a nominal fee to cover overhead like event space. Ideally, remaining funds can go towards items such as equipment upgrades and monthly RSS feed fees.

3. Live shows can promote shopping local. Events such as Small Business Saturday (presented by American Express) and the resurgence of entrepreneurship have made it cool to support small businesses in our communities. This is ideal for podcasters looking for a space to host a live event. That coffee shop that you frequent may be the perfect location to host your event. More importantly, the coffee shop owner will probably welcome the traffic and publicity. You can take it one step further by offering a small discount to your listeners (with permission from the owner, of course). It’s a win-win for you and the small business.

4. Opportunity to share podcast on YouTube Since traditional podcasts are audio-based, live shows can be recorded and shared as “special edition” videos for YouTube. By recording the live show, you extend the shelf life of the event. You can also use the recording as a tool for prospective advertisers and sponsors. Bonus: edit the video into short clips and use on social media for promo.

Again, everyone has to start somewhere. Of course, you may not be able to do a live show at the Apollo Theatre like 2 Dope Queens. However, consider these reasons and research locations that may be aligned with the vibe of your show.

Are you considering live shows?

Robin Kinnie is an experienced podcast producer, entrepreneur and #womanowned advocate. Driven by community, she takes pride in creating access to underrepresented groups within the podcast industry. As the President of Motor City Woman and Audio Engineers of Detroit, her goal is to amplify the voices of women. Robin also serves as the head of Soundgirls.org, Detroit Chapter. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter @RobinKinnie.

Comments:

Antionette Blake - Oct 1, 2019

Yes, podcasting live is a great way to brand yourself and get more eyes and ears on your show.

I’d be very interested in hearing what people are doing at a live show. My difficulty in seeing it as an option is I just don’t think people would be all that thrilled to sit and watch somebody talk into a microphone while reading a script (mind is a storytelling podcast). What do podcasters add to make a LIVE event more engaging for the audience who attends?

Great point. Typically, live shows are structured to be more lively than your standard episode. You may welcome audience participation or solicit questions.