Overview

The talk centered on the transformative impact of true crime podcasts on both the podcasting industry and the reporting of true crime stories. The speaker highlighted how true crime podcasts have popularized the medium, with shows like "Serial" setting benchmarks for audience engagement.

They emphasized the genre's ability to captivate listeners through local storytelling and suspense, noting that 45% of potential podcast listeners are drawn to stories from their local area. The speaker also discussed the shift towards victim-centered reporting, which respects and dignifies victims and their communities.

This approach has been driven by listener demand, with half of true crime podcast listeners preferring such content. The talk concluded by encouraging podcasters to join movements that foster industry growth, using true crime's evolution as a model for transformation.

Core Concepts

True Crime's Influence on Podcasting

True crime has become a cornerstone of the podcasting industry, drawing millions of listeners and reshaping content creation.

Key Points:

• True crime podcasts have introduced many people to the medium, with shows like Serial setting the standard for storytelling.

• The genre's popularity is evident, with a significant portion of the American population engaging with true crime content across various platforms.

• True crime podcasts have not only entertained but also contributed to solving real-life cases, highlighting their societal impact.

Examples:

• Serial was one of the first podcasts to reach 5 million downloads, showcasing the potential of true crime to attract large audiences.

• Crime Junkie, a leading true crime podcast, has played a role in exonerating wrongfully convicted individuals through its investigative reporting.

Quotes:

True crime stories like these are changing podcasting. They helped the medium grow, but podcasting in return has also changed the way we report on these true crime stories.

The Power of Location in Storytelling

Utilizing location in storytelling can significantly enhance audience engagement by creating personal connections.

Key Points:

• Mentioning specific locations can quickly capture a listener's attention, especially if they have a personal connection to the place.

• This strategy is not limited to true crime; it can be applied to any podcast genre to enhance relatability and interest.

• Location-based storytelling can foster a sense of community among listeners who share a connection to the mentioned places.

Examples:

• The story of Mike and Harley Kirk, who were drawn to a podcast episode because it mentioned their hometown, illustrates the power of location in storytelling.

• Dark Down East, a true crime podcast focusing on New England, has built a dedicated community by highlighting local cases.

Quotes:

Location is an effective way in this age of information to draw attention, but it's also a great way to maintain it.

Engaging Audiences Through Mystery and Suspense

Mystery and suspense are powerful tools in storytelling that can captivate audiences and keep them engaged.

Key Points:

• True crime podcasts often use mystery and suspense to maintain listener interest, appealing to the human desire to solve puzzles.

• Creating suspense can involve withholding information, posing questions, or setting a race against time.

• These techniques can be adapted to various podcast genres to enhance storytelling and audience engagement.

Examples:

• The suspenseful narrative of James Harry Reyos' case, with its twists and turns, exemplifies how mystery can keep listeners hooked.

• Podcasts that pose questions in their titles, such as Whatever Happened to R&B Musical Artist Neo, can intrigue listeners and encourage them to tune in.

Quotes:

Being the sleuth, being the detective. Those things appeal to the human understanding, the need to understand things.

Conclusion

The session highlighted the transformative impact of true crime on podcasting, emphasizing the genre's role in attracting audiences and reshaping storytelling. By leveraging location and mystery, podcasters can enhance engagement and build communities. The shift towards victim-centered reporting reflects a growing demand for respectful narratives, showcasing podcasting's potential to drive social change. As the industry evolves, embracing these strategies can foster growth and innovation, creating a more dynamic and inclusive podcasting landscape.

Food for Thought

• How can other podcast genres incorporate location-based storytelling to enhance audience engagement?

• In what ways can podcasters balance suspense and information to maintain listener interest without misleading them?

• How can the principles of victim-centered reporting be applied to other forms of media storytelling?