I think the idea of video for podcasts may have some promise, but not if you’re simply grafting video on the existing podcasting experience and show format. On the phone, you’re fighting against people watching short-form video delivered by an algorithm. Attempting to go head-to-head with the TikToks of the world is a loosing battle, and I can’t see it work well with the feed-based approach of traditional podcasts (unless you like spending all your time making short-form videos).

No, what wins in the traditional podcasting ecosystem is deep para-social relationships with those putting out a decent show on a regular basis. That’s why I think the shows that’ll do well here are ones I can watch on my TV. Shorter that audio-only podcast episode (I’ve got stuff to do) yet long enough to make it seem worth it to me, that rely more on that visual element (interviews are fine, but what am I getting watching you instead of just listening), and that require my full attention. Imagine YouTube if all they had were subscriptions.