
Authenticity Is Everything: What Makes a Great Podcast Ad
Podcast Advertising Works Best When It’s Authentic
If you’ve spent any time researching, buying, or creating podcast ads, you’ve probably heard it before: authenticity matters. But what does that actually look like in practice?
In the latest episode of AdStops, Authenticity Is Everything: What Makes a Great Podcast Ad, Tiffany Rubenstein (ADOPTER Media Co-Founder & COO) and Angela Stiveson (Director of AdOps) sit down with someone who knows what makes a great podcast ad from both sides of the mic, ADOPTER Media's very own Senior Account Manager, Kelsi Schreiber.
The Best Podcast Ads Feel Real
Kelsi brings a dual perspective to the table. She’s a seasoned AdOps professional and a creator herself (her wrestling podcast era deserves its own spin-off). That crossover gives her unique insight into what makes a host-read ad resonate—and what makes audiences skip ahead.
One thing becomes crystal clear throughout the conversation: the best podcast ads aren’t the most scripted. They're the ones that feel and sound real. “Authenticity isn’t optional. It’s foundational.”
Trust Drives Conversions
When a host sounds like they’re reading off a script, listeners can tell. And they tune out. But when a podcast ad feels like a natural extension of the host’s voice—when it’s delivered with care, a little prep, and genuine enthusiasm—it builds trust. And trust is what ultimately drives conversions.
From prepping hosts to giving brands realistic expectations, this episode shares valuable insights on what works (and what doesn’t) from the AdOps perspective.
Whether you’re a brand investing in podcast ads, a creator refining your reads, or an AdOps professional keeping it all on track, this episode is for you.
Curious how podcast ad operations professionals help ensure campaign success? Check out our guide to Podcast AdOps.
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