How Fast Should You Talk on a Podcast? (Words Per Minute)

How Fast Should You Talk on a Podcast? You should speak at about 150 to 160 words per minute. It is the upper range that people comfortably hear, vocalize words, and it ensures full comprehension of your material.

Full episode transcripts are available at: improvepodcast.com/school

Research Key Findings:

According to the National Center for Voice and Speech, the average rate for English speakers in the US is about 150 words per minute. The average speaking rate can change for your project. And there are many professionals who are known to speak faster or slower deliberately.

In 1976 psychologists looked at speech rate and persuasion and concluded that faster speakers, talking on average 195 words per minute, were more persuasive than slower speakers averaging 102 words per minute. This study suggests that speech rate functions as a general cue that augments credibility. 

However, in 1991 a study on rapid speech suggested a more complicated relationship. Researchers conclude that fast-talking increased persuasion when messages were in general disagreement with the audience's views. 

We answer 5 key questions regarding the average speaking rate:

1. How do we measure Average Speaking Rate?
2. How Fast do Professionals Talk?
3. Do you speak too fast, too slow, or just right? 
4. How to Use Rate of Speech Effectively?
5. What is the ideal rate of speech?

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Setup used for recording:

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* Microphone - Shure SM7B - amzn.to/3bikQXj

* Audio interface - Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 - amzn.to/3sR6gMg

* Preamp - Cloudlifter - amzn.to/3bfFreF

* Music - Soundstripe - improvepodcast.com/soundstripe

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