B-roll
B-roll is supplementary footage cut in over the main conversation, such as product shots, screen recordings, office scenes or stock clips. It illustrates what is being discussed and adds visual variety to a video podcast.
For example, when a guest describes their product dashboard, the editor cuts to a screen recording of that dashboard as B-roll while the guest keeps talking.
Why it matters: b-roll makes a video podcast feel produced rather than static, and gives you richer, more watchable clips to repurpose for social.
Good B-roll is motivated - it illustrates what is being said or covers an edit, rather than decorating the screen with stock footage for its own sake.
- Dropping in generic stock that feels disconnected from the conversation.
- Over-using cutaways until the viewer loses the speakers.
- Capturing no usable B-roll on the day and scrambling for it later.
What is B-roll?
B-roll is supplementary footage cut in over the main conversation, such as product shots, screen recordings, office scenes or stock clips. It illustrates what is being discussed and adds visual variety to a video podcast.
Where do you get B-roll for a podcast?
From screen recordings, product demos, footage shot around the office or event, brand assets, or licensed stock libraries. Relevant, specific footage works far better than generic stock.
Do you need B-roll for an interview podcast?
It is optional but valuable. Even a little well-placed B-roll breaks up talking heads and gives editors more material for short-form clips.