S1 E1: True Crime Edition — Scary Good or Scary Bad? Breaking Down DR Podcast Ads on True Crime Podcasts with Adam McNeil from ADOPTER Media

In the debut episode of "Make Better: True Crime Edition," brought to you by Podscribe we dive into the world of direct response ads on true crime podcasts. Our expert guest, podcast buyer Adam McNeil from ADOPTER Media, helps us analyze four ads from top brands in the true crime space: Curology, Peleton, Rocket Money, and Daily Harvest Together, we explore best practices for creating effective direct-response ads and discuss the importance of authenticity and not over-scripting a host. We also uncover some surprising insights, including why you might not want to include music in your ad. Whether you're a seasoned podcast advertiser or just starting out, this episode is packed with actionable insights that will help you make your direct response ads more effective and engaging. Join us for an in-depth discussion on how to master the art of direct response advertising on true crime podcasts. Transcribed Summary brought to you by Podscribe: The podcast episode features four ads on true crime podcasts, with host Amelia from Podscribe and expert guest Adam from adopter media providing insights on ad creative. The first ad is for Curology, a customized skincare product. Adam discusses the use of music in ads and the importance of making the ad feel like part of the content. He praises the simplicity of the ad and how it highlights both the physical and emotional effects of the product. The second ad is for Daily Harvest, a meal delivery service. Adam and host Amelia discuss the engaging and entertaining nature of the ad read, with the host making relatable and funny remarks. They appreciate the host's personal experience and endorsement of the product. The third ad is for Peloton, a fitness brand. Adam critiques the ad for feeling forced and lacking a genuine endorsement. He suggests a more personal and relatable approach to improve the ad's effectiveness. The fourth ad is for Rocket Money, a personal finance app. Adam notes the shift in tone from a formal read to a more personal experience, which he finds effective. He highlights the ease of canceling subscriptions and managing expenses as a key selling point. Overall, the episode discusses the strengths and weaknesses of each ad, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and relatability in podcast advertising.