Interview vs Narrative Podcasts

What’s the Difference (and Why It Matters)

Over the years, I’ve listened to, and created, my fair share of podcasts.

Some are built around relaxed conversations over coffee, while others sound like something straight off the BBC.

Both have their place, and both can be incredibly engaging.

But they’re not the same thing, and knowing the difference between an interview-style podcast and a narrative-style one can really help if you’re planning to launch your own.

“It is The Theatre of the Mind”

The Interview Podcast – Real Voices, Real Time

This is the style most of us are familiar with. One host, one guest (or sometimes a few), and a good old-fashioned chat.

It’s personal, unscripted (mostly), and often built around curiosity.

I love this format because it lets people speak in their own words.

There’s a spontaneity to it.

You’re reacting in the moment, following where the conversation goes.

If you’re good at listening (really listening), you can draw out some amazing gems.

The key here is prep: knowing your guest, planning your questions, but not clinging to them too tightly.

The Narrative Podcast – Story First, Voice Second

Narrative podcasts are a different beast.

They’re built like audio documentaries.

Often scripted, tightly edited, and structured to tell a story over time.

Think layers of sound, music, voiceover, and sometimes a cast of characters.

You’re not just telling the listener what happened, you’re showing them, through audio.

This is where audio really shines.

With the right structure and pacing, you can guide your listener through a journey.

Emotional, factual, even suspenseful. It takes more time to produce, but when it’s done well, it’s powerful.

Narrative Vodcast

So Which One Should You Choose?

Well that depends on your goal. If you want to share conversations, highlight guests, or create something that feels casual and accessible, the interview format is probably your best bet.

If you’ve got a story to tell, one with a beginning, middle, and end, or you’re pulling from different sources (archive clips, field recordings, diary entries), narrative might be the way to go.

And of course, you can blend both.

Some of the most effective podcasts weave interviews into a structured narrative, using clips to support a central voice or storyline.

Structure is Key

Whichever format you choose, structure matters.

Even the most casual interview benefits from a clear flow.

Intro, main discussion, closing thoughts.

And narrative podcasts absolutely need structure. Without it, your story risks losing impact.

I’ve put together a free downloadable guide that walks you through the basic structure of both podcast types, with examples, planning templates, and tips from my own process.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to tighten up your next series, I hope it helps.

And if you want a bit of guidance or inspiration, I offer simple, one-to-one training to help you use audio creatively and confidently.

Drop me a message if you'd like to know more.