AI is coming for podcasting – but should you be worried?

Hi Reader,

If you spend any time on social media lately, you’ve probably seen the headlines:

• “AI hosts are replacing humans!”
• “AI podcasts are flooding Spotify!”
• “Is this the end for indie creators?”

It’s easy to panic. But here’s the thing – AI isn’t replacing podcasters. It’s reshaping how we create.

And if you approach it the right way, that can actually work in your favour.

The Rise of AI in Podcasting

AI-generated shows are popping up faster than ever – news summaries, interview simulators, even “personalities” that sound uncannily real.

They can churn out episodes in minutes. They never get tired. And they can create episodes about trending topics far quicker than a human can (mostly).

But what they can’t do is connect.

• They can mimic conversation, but not build community.
• They can generate words, but not meaning.
• They can tell a story, but they can’t feel one.

That’s where real creators win.

Why Human Voices Still Matter

Podcasting has always been about connection. It’s one of the most intimate mediums out there – a voice in your ear, a story in your head.

AI can imitate tone, but not trust. It can replicate your format, but not your perspective.

Your imperfections, humour, tangents, and vulnerability – that’s your competitive advantage.

Listeners don’t follow podcasts. They follow people.

So instead of worrying about AI replacing you, think about how it highlights what only you can offer.

How to Use AI Without Losing Yourself

AI isn’t the enemy. It’s a tool – and when used well, it can make you a stronger creator.

Here are a few ways to use it smartly:

1. As an assistant, not a voice. Use AI to brainstorm topics, write show notes, or generate transcriptions – but keep the storytelling and hosting yours.
2. For creative prep. Tools like ChatGPT, Descript, and ElevenLabs can help with outlines, research, or even testing script ideas before you record.
3. To boost accessibility. AI can transcribe, translate, or summarize episodes, making your content easier to find and share.
4. As a listener differentiator. Promote your show as human-first. Lean into authenticity, imperfections, and emotion – the things AI can’t fake.

AI isn’t a threat to your creativity – it’s a mirror for it.

The more the industry fills up with robotic content, the more valuable human connection becomes. So instead of worrying about what AI can do, focus on what it can’t.

Be more real. Be more personal. Be more you.

Because the future of podcasting won’t belong to whoever uses the most AI – it’ll belong to whoever stays the most human.

Your turn:

This week, take a quick look at your latest episode and ask:

1. Where do I sound most human? (Maybe it’s a laugh, a pause, or a personal moment.)
2. Could an AI have made this episode? If yes, what could I add to make it unmistakably mine?
3. What AI tools could actually support my creativity without taking it over?

Use that as your guide for the episodes ahead, and lt ai be your companion as opposed to your competitor.

Until the next time, happy podcasting.

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