Episode 758 - How to Sound More Human in an A.I. World - Rate of Speech - Finding Your Pace in Their Ears
In this first episode of a four part series on sounding more human in an AI driven world, Dave explores one of the most overlooked podcasting skills: your rate of speech. While creators often focus on microphones, editing, and content, the way a message is delivered can have an even greater impact on how listeners connect with a podcast.
Dave explains that speaking too quickly can overwhelm listeners, create anxiety, and make it difficult for them to absorb important ideas. On the other hand, speaking too slowly can drain energy from an episode and leave listeners feeling disconnected. The goal is not to be fast or slow, but to find a natural pace that feels conversational and keeps people engaged from beginning to end.
The episode highlights how pacing is a powerful storytelling tool. Faster delivery can build excitement, momentum, and anticipation during energetic moments, while slowing down helps emphasize key insights, emotional stories, important instructions, and calls to action. By varying your pace throughout an episode, you create contrast that captures attention and makes your message more memorable.
Dave also discusses why new podcasters often rush through their content. Nerves, inexperience, and the fear of silence can lead creators to fill every second with words. Instead, he encourages podcasters to embrace intentional pauses, allowing listeners time to process important ideas. Silence, when used purposefully, becomes part of the conversation rather than something to avoid.
Practical exercises are shared to help improve pacing, including recording the same paragraph at different speeds, marking scripts with reminders to speed up or slow down, and asking trusted listeners for honest feedback. Solo podcasters are reminded that imagining a conversation with one listener, rather than performing for a crowd, naturally creates a more authentic and relaxed delivery.
Dave closes by encouraging podcasters to continually develop this skill through practice, self review, and intentionality. In a world where AI voices are becoming more common, a genuine human delivery, complete with natural pacing and emotional connection, is one of the strongest ways to stand out.
Key Takeaway: Your pace is part of your message. By intentionally varying your speed, using thoughtful pauses, and speaking as if you're talking to one listener, you create a more human connection that keeps your audience engaged and helps your words have lasting impact.
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