Poetry has always been a powerful way to express thoughts, feelings, and ideas. However, the traditional ways of sharing poetry, such as through books and readings, can limit its reach. In recent years, podcasting has emerged as a dynamic medium for poets to reach new audiences and monetize their work.
In this article, we will explore the benefits of podcasting for poets, share tips on how to start your own podcast and discuss how to monetize your poetry through podcasting.
Why Podcasting is a Powerful Medium for Poets
Rising popularity: In recent years, audio content has gained immense popularity as a medium for entertainment and information, and the growth of podcasting has been phenomenal. According to a report by Statista, the number of podcast listeners in the United States alone is projected to reach 125.9 million by 2022. This trend is also seen across the globe, with more people turning to audio content for entertainment and information.
The intimate nature of podcasting: Podcasting provides an intimate listening experience that is not found in other forms of media. The host’s voice can create a personal connection with listeners, allowing them to feel like they are part of a conversation. This sense of connection can be especially powerful for poets, as it creates a unique space for them to share their work and connect with their audience on a personal level.
Increased visibility: Podcasts have the potential to reach a global audience and increase the visibility of a poet’s work. With the rise of podcast directories like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts, it’s easier than ever for people to discover and listen to podcasts. This increased visibility can lead to new fans and opportunities for poets to showcase their work in.
How to Start Your Own Poetry Podcast
Choosing a podcasting platform: When it comes to podcasting platforms, there is a range of options available such as Anchor, Buzzsprout, and Podbean. Each platform offers different features and pricing options, so it’s essential to research and choose the one that best fits your needs.
Identify your concept and your target audience: Having a clear concept for your podcast and identifying your target audience is essential. Your concept should align with your goals as a poet, and your target audience should be the people who would appreciate your work. This will help you create content that resonates with your listeners and builds a loyal fan base.
Develop a consistent format for your podcast and establish a production schedule: Creating a consistent format for your podcast and establishing a production schedule is crucial. Consistency will help you build a loyal audience, and a production schedule will keep you organized and on track with your content creation.
Choose the right equipment and recording space: To produce high-quality audio, it’s essential to invest in the right equipment and create a suitable recording space. This includes a quality microphone, headphones, and soundproofing materials to minimize background noise.
Plan and record your episodes in advance: Planning and recording your episodes in advance will help you stay organized and ensure that you have enough content to publish on a regular basis. This also allows you to schedule recordings around other commitments and ensure that you have enough time to produce high-quality content.
Tips for Creating Compelling Poetry Podcast Content
Creating a poetry podcast is not just about recording your poetry and posting it online. It’s about creating an engaging listening experience that draws in your audience and keeps them coming back for more. Here are some tips for creating compelling poetry podcast content:
Incorporate music and sound effects: Adding background music or sound effects can help to enhance the listening experience and create a more immersive atmosphere for your listeners. Make sure to choose music and sound effects that complement your poetry and don’t distract from it.
Invite guests to share their poetry: Inviting other poets or creatives to your podcast can provide a unique perspective and add variety to your content. You can also use this opportunity to collaborate with other artists and create new work together.
Explore different poetry forms and styles: Feel free to mix up your content and experiment with different poetry forms and styles. This can help to keep your podcast fresh and engaging and prevent your listeners from getting bored.
Share personal stories and experiences: Connecting with your audience on a personal level can create a sense of intimacy and help to build a community around your podcast. Sharing personal stories and experiences can also provide insight into your creative process and inspire your listeners.
Offer insights into the creative process: Many poetry enthusiasts are interested in the creative process behind their favorite poets. Offering insights into your own creative process can help to educate and inspire your audience, and make them feel more connected to your work.
Monetizing Your Poetry Podcast
Creating a successful poetry podcast takes time and effort, but it can also provide opportunities for monetization. Here are some ways to monetize your poetry podcast:
Offering exclusive content and bonus episodes to patrons through platforms like Patreon and TryFlok
Patreon is a popular platform that allows creators to offer exclusive content to their supporters. As a poet-podcaster, you can offer bonus episodes, behind-the-scenes content, and other exclusive rewards to your supporters in exchange for a monthly subscription.
Partnering with sponsors who align with your values and brand: As your podcast grows, you may have the opportunity to partner with sponsors who align with your values and brand. This can provide a significant source of income, but it’s essential to ensure that the sponsors you work with align with your values and won’t compromise the integrity of your podcast.
Selling merchandise related to your podcast or poetry: Merchandise can be an excellent way to monetize your podcast and build your brand. Consider selling t-shirts, posters, or other merchandise related to your podcast or poetry.
Offering workshops or courses related to poetry and podcasting: If you have expertise in poetry or podcasting, consider offering workshops or courses to your listeners. This can be an excellent way to monetize your podcast while providing value to your audience.
Exploring live events and performances to showcase your work and connect with listeners: Finally, consider exploring live events and performances to showcase your work and connect with your listeners. Live events can provide opportunities for ticket sales, merchandise sales, and other forms of monetization.
Examples of Successful Poetry Podcasts and Poet-Podcasters
The Slowdown with Tracy K. Smith: The Slowdown is a daily poetry podcast hosted by Tracy K. Smith, the former U.S. Poet Laureate. Each episode features Smith reading and reflecting on a single poem, accompanied by music and soundscapes. The Slowdown has been a critical and commercial success, with over two million downloads to date.
The Poetry Exchange with Fiona Bennett and Michael Shaeffer: The Poetry Exchange is a podcast that explores the relationship between people and poetry. In each episode, hosts Fiona Bennett and Michael Shaeffer invite a guest to share a poem that has been significant to them and discuss why it matters. The Poetry Exchange has been praised for its intimate and personal approach to poetry.
Ours Poetica with Paige Lewis: Ours Poetica is a poetry podcast hosted by poet Paige Lewis. Each episode features a guest reading and reflecting on a single poem. Ours Poetica has been praised for its diverse range of guests and for its focus on the power of individual poems.
Versify with Joshua Moore: Versify is a podcast that combines poetry and storytelling. Host Joshua Moore invites guests to share a personal story, which he then turns into a poem. Versify has been praised for its innovative approach to poetry and storytelling.
The Poet Salon with Gabrielle Bates and Dujie Tahat: The Poet Salon is a podcast that explores the craft of poetry. Hosts Gabrielle Bates and Dujie Tahat invite guests to share their poems and discuss their writing process. The Poet Salon has been praised for its insightful and engaging discussions of poetry.
Podcasting has emerged as a powerful medium for poets to reach new audiences, build connections, and monetize their work. With the right tools, strategies, and content, podcasting can offer poets a platform to share their voices with the world and create a sustainable income stream. Whether you are a seasoned poet or just starting out, podcasting can be a valuable addition to your creative portfolio.
By Bidemi Adedire
