With the introduction of advanced artificial intelligence tools like Google Notebook LM, the potential for creating, managing, and optimizing podcasts has expanded considerably. As content strategists, we breakdown the unique advantags of AI-generated podcasts.
Above: Podcast on Contextual Retrieval we produced for a client.
What are AI-Generated Podcasts?
In short: They are audio podcasts that are generated by AI based on information provided to the AI. The AI writes the script and generates an audio clip. Typically, you write a prompt and also provide the AI with information that you want the podcast to be about.
Wait! Isn't that what we provide to podcast production houses? 100%. Currently, we provide the podcast producer a 'brief' which is the equivalent to a prompt, and background information on any topic we want the podcast to be about.
Podcasts can cost quite a pretty penny as the production houses will have to write the script, setup the studio, get the hosts scheduled and prepped, record the session, etc.
Benefits of AI-Generated Podcasts
Much faster to produce
Consistent quality
More cost effective
Costs that remain when using AI podcasts
Cost of editing the generated audio
Cost of editing the video clip (e.g. for YouTube)
New costs associated with making AI podcasts
Cost of generating/creating AI hosts
Subscription to AI avatar and lipsync services
When AI Podcasts Make Strategic Sense
They are particularly suitable for:
a. Establishing Thought Leadership
For brands aiming to position themselves as industry leaders, these podcasts can produce insightful and authoritative content. By consistently delivering high-quality episodes on relevant topics, brands can build credibility and influence within their niche.
b. Deepening Connection
Podcasts are particularly popular with audiences that multi-task and enjoy listening to podcasts to learn while they drive, take care of chores, etc. AI-generated podcasts can help you deepen engagement while diversifying your content folio.
c. Optimizing SEO and Discoverability
Brands, both enterprise and consumer, are discovered through podcasts on Spotify, YouTube, LinkedIn and many others. Podcasts and their transcripts boost SEO performance and increase the discoverability of your brand.
Costs of Production
While audio podcasts offer a rich and immersive listening experience, you may want to add AI avatar hosts for YouTube or LinkedIn, making the podcast visually appealing as well. Incorporating AI avatars involves using lip-sync services.
Time Per Episode (minimally):
Planning: 2-3 hours
Creating: 2-3 hours
Editing: 2-3 hours
Budget Per Episode (minimally):
Essential software: $500-1,000
Monthly costs: $50-200
Production: Minimally $600-900/episode
As artificial intelligence continues to advance, we expect AI-generated podcasts to become a staple in content strategies. Our own approach is to engage with these technologies early, particularly to understand how they impact our cost structures, and acquire clients that are willing to go on this journey together with us.