Introduction: The Visual Shift in Podcasting
Podcasting, once a purely audio-driven platform, is undergoing a visual transformation. With consumer preferences shifting toward video content, platforms like YouTube and Spotify are reshaping how audiences engage with their favorite shows. This evolution is unlocking new career paths, revenue streams, and audience segments — and it’s only accelerating.
Morgan Absher’s Journey: From Hobby to Career
Morgan Absher’s story captures the spirit of this shift. Initially training to become an occupational therapist, her career was halted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Out of a personal rut, she launched Two Hot Takes, a comedic video podcast exploring viral Reddit stories. What began as a “depression hobby” has grown into a full-fledged digital brand and career.
Absher attributes much of her success to the addition of video, noting that it deepened audience connection and improved accessibility — particularly for individuals with hearing impairments. Her on-screen presence not only builds trust but also enhances appeal to advertisers.
Today, she co-hosts Clues, a true crime video podcast from Max Cutler’s Pave Studios, demonstrating how the visual format can create tangible career leaps.
Why Video Podcasts Are Booming
Video content taps into two core human preferences: sight and sound. It offers stronger engagement, broader storytelling potential, and greater monetization options. For creators, it’s an opportunity to elevate personal branding and increase audience loyalty.
The podcasting medium, already massive in scope, is growing faster with video integration. In fact, podcasting is now influencing major spheres, including political discourse and mainstream media.
YouTube’s Dominance in the Podcasting Space
YouTube has emerged as the leading podcast platform. As of early 2024, the company reported over 1 billion monthly podcast listeners, with viewers consuming 400 million hours of podcast content per month on TV alone.
According to Edison Research, YouTube surpassed all competitors in podcast consumption. Its recommendation engine, massive audience base, and ease of content discovery make it a prime venue for creators seeking rapid growth.
Defining a Modern Podcast
The explosion of video podcasts has led many to question the traditional definition of a podcast. Is it still a podcast if it’s consumed visually? While definitions may vary, the market consensus is clear: video is no longer optional — it’s the new standard.
From creators to platforms, the consensus is that adding a visual layer enhances content performance and expands the creator’s potential audience.
Opportunities Beyond the Mic
This growth is not limited to podcast hosts. Entire ecosystems are benefiting — from video editors and animators to scriptwriters, motion designers, and even composers.
Chris Boniello of Podglomerate notes a surge in hiring talent with traditional video production skills. The demand for TV-style editors and multicamera operators is expanding podcasting’s once low-cost entry point into a more professionalized, team-based industry.
This trend echoes what we’re seeing across platforms like Trenzest, where creators and entrepreneurs are seeking smarter strategies to monetize content and stay ahead of digital trends.
The Role of Big Tech and Advertising
The money is following the audience. eMarketer predicts digital video ad spending will hit $108 billion by 2025, compared to just $2.5 billion for audio-only podcasts. This massive disparity is prompting creators to prioritize video formats.
YouTube continues to dominate discovery through algorithmic recommendations, while Spotify is pushing short-form video clips to draw listeners in.
Meanwhile, SiriusXM has introduced Creator Connect, allowing advertisers to build multi-platform campaigns. According to their data, 12% of podcast advertisers are already active across video, audio, and social media — a figure expected to grow.
Creator Economics and the High Cost of Going Visual
While video offers more revenue potential, it also raises the stakes. High-quality production can cost up to $10,000 per shoot, especially when factoring in makeup, set design, lighting, and editing.
Jay Clouse, founder of Creator Science, saw revenue jump from $20,000 in 2022 to $60,000 in 2024 after adding video. But he cautions that success on YouTube demands strategic planning — especially around titles, thumbnails, and hook retention within the first 60 seconds.
As Clouse puts it: “You’re still auditioning for your audience.”
Challenges of Going Visual
The shift to video isn’t without its drawbacks. Video demands more personnel, more time, and opens creators up to public scrutiny.
Joe Cilio, co-founder of Forever Dog Productions, emphasizes the need for data-driven growth on YouTube — especially analyzing watch time and retention. He also points out the emotional toll on creators unprepared for public criticism and harsh comments.
Claire Parker of Celebrity Memoir Book Club (a Vox Media podcast) highlighted another key issue: visual pressure. “You have to look a certain way,” she said, underscoring how video imposes beauty standards that audio alone never did.
Final Thoughts: Embracing the Future with Strategy
As the line between podcasting and video content continues to blur, creators must adapt to stay competitive. The integration of video isn’t just a trend — it’s a paradigm shift.
Whether you’re a creator, marketer, or entrepreneur, investing in high-quality video podcasting can dramatically boost visibility and revenue. But it requires planning, resources, and resilience.
At Trenzest, we specialize in helping digital creators and brands navigate the evolving content landscape. From optimizing video strategies to building monetizable platforms, we guide you from idea to impact. Explore our latest insights or contact us to take your content to the next level.
Key Takeaway:
Video podcasting is not just reshaping content — it’s redefining careers. Embrace the format with a strategy, and the rewards can be transformational.
