🎙️ Podcast Format Ideas: Solo, Interview, Panel, or Storytelling

So, you’ve decided to start a podcast—great move! Now comes one of the most important decisions: What format will your show follow?

The format you choose sets the tone for your content, shapes how your audience engages with you, and even determines how easy (or challenging) your production process will be. The good news? There’s no one-size-fits-all. Your podcast format should align with your personality, goals, and the kind of conversations or stories you want to share.

Here’s a breakdown of four popular podcast formats to help you figure out what might work best for you:

🎤 1. Solo Podcast

What it is: Just you and the mic.

Best for: Coaches, thought leaders, educators, or anyone with strong opinions and insights to share.

Why it works: Solo shows build intimacy with your audience. They hear your voice, your stories, your advice—unfiltered.

Bonus: It’s the easiest format to schedule since you don’t need to coordinate with anyone else.

Watch out for: It takes energy to keep a solo episode engaging. Plan your content ahead and practice strong delivery.

🗣️ 2. Interview Podcast

What it is: You host conversations with guests—experts, creators, clients, or anyone with a story to tell.

Best for: Business owners, networkers, and people looking to grow their platform or learn from others.

Why it works: Interviews bring in fresh perspectives and tap into your guests’ audiences. It’s also a great way to build relationships.

Watch out for: Prepping well is key—do your research, guide the conversation, and make sure your guest feels comfortable.

👥 3. Panel Podcast

What it is: A discussion with multiple people—usually recurring co-hosts or guest panels around a topic.

Best for: Topics with room for diverse opinions—pop culture, politics, business, wellness, etc.

Why it works: Dynamic and fast-paced, panel podcasts sound like group chats your audience gets to eavesdrop on.

Watch out for: Audio chaos. A good studio setup (like ours 😉) helps keep cross-talk and mic levels balanced.

📖 4. Storytelling Podcast

What it is: Narrative-driven episodes, often with a mix of voiceovers, sound design, interviews, and scripted content.

Best for: Creators who want to take listeners on a journey—true crime, documentary-style stories, brand storytelling, or personal narratives.

Why it works: This format is immersive and emotional. It keeps listeners coming back for the next “chapter.”

Watch out for: Storytelling takes more planning and editing—but when it’s done right, it’s incredible.

✨ Which Format Is Right for You?

Think about your goals, your strengths, and your time. Do you love talking to others? Interviews or panels might be your thing. Want to build your brand voice? Go solo. Got a compelling story to tell? Lean into narrative.

At Just Talk Studios, we work with podcasters using all of these formats—and we’re here to make each one sound professional, engaging, and uniquely you.

📣 Ready to Launch?

No matter your format, you don’t have to do it alone. We’ll help you record, produce, and grow your podcast—all from our state-of-the-art studio right here in Bellevue, WA.

👉 Book a session or reach out for a free consultation to talk through the best format for your goals.

Let’s build something that sounds like you.