Developing the Concept
It all starts with a story, and good storytelling takes some thoughtful and purposeful planning. But, how do you start? It can feel a little overwhelming at first.
The best place to start is with you and your interests. I can hear you saying, “But, I don’t have an interesting story to tell.” First of all, that’s not true, and second of all, don’t worry we are here to help.
The first step to figuring out your story is to do some brainstorming about topics or issues that you care about. It’s essential that you choose a topic or issue that you are passionate about, as if you don’t care about your topic, there is very little chance your audience will. So start by thinking about what gets you excited when you are talking to your friends? Write as many ideas or topics down as you can, and don’t judge any of them yet. You’re brainstorming after all – no judgment here.
Once you have some topics or issues in mind it may be helpful to look at some of these writing prompts published by the New York Times. You will notice that there are several broad categories including Technology, Arts & Entertainment, School & Career, Identity & Family, Social Life & Leisure Time, Science & Health, Civics & History, which are then divided into further subcategories that will hopefully align with your identified topics or issues. You’ll then likely notice that these prompts are phrased as questions; this is important as it will set an exploratory tone for your podcast rather than an argumentative statement. The idea is that you are going to invite your audience into a conversation, not a sermon.
A good question focuses your podcast and provides avenues for you to explore your topic in a conversational way.
In the following video, Phoebe Lett of The New York Times Learning Network shares her experience and offers practical advice on planning your podcast.
Podcasts are marked by a personal tone that the host creates by being honest and genuine, creating a secure environment where the audience feels welcome and safe (BBC, 2021). So keep in mind that podcasts are not academic essays or endless journeys and as such MacAdam (2016) suggests that you stick to one driving question. It’s true there can be many subtopics or related issues to your main question, but stick with one as it will provide focus. Of course, you will be asking and answering more than one question, but additional questions should relate in order to help answer your main question. MacAdam (2016) states that your job is to “communicate clearly and memorably — and that requires leaving things out“. Knowing that you can’t do it all, will make the task ahead feel more manageable.
Conflict drives the plot of a story forward, and creates interest for your audience.
A story without tension goes nowhere,and your audience will lose interest very quickly. So when considering your topic, think carefully about what is the conflict or tension related to your issue? Ensure there are opposing viewpoints, and ask yourself where the conflict resides, as this will help shape the direction and talking points within your podcast that will keep your audience engaged (MacAdam, 2016).
“We rarely remember entire stories; more often, it’s particular quotes, scenes, characters or ideas.” (MacAdam, 2016)
This is really important to consider when planning your podcast, as it will help you focus on what is important and also provides a mental destination (focus) that will allow you to roadmap (plan) your podcast. It’s hard to know where we are going without planning how to get there. That said don’t be too rigid, allow yourself to consider other avenues if your story takes you there. After all, you are just beginning to bring your story to life, but now you have a concept and plan so are well on your way to producing your podcast.
