Starting any creative venture can be overwhelming. Don’t worry though; we believe that anything that you want to do is worth doing, no matter how hard. But what is it about podcasting that engages so many people?
In short, it’s the connection.
Let’s break it all down.
1. The Key to Standing Out
The ability to be able to share your opinion and find your “group” is something that everyone desires, even if you don’t realize. We all want to be heard and whether you’re the one creating the podcast, or the one listening to it we have all been there.
You’ve heard it before and you’ll hear it again. BE. YOUR. SELF. Be yourself. That’s the secret sauce, if you don’t finish this blog post we hope you take away the biggest part and that is to be yourself. The reason that anyone is successful is because 1. They tried. And 2. They were unapologetically themselves.
The other reason someone is successful is because they are working toward that success. Luck is a huge part in things but making your own luck by consistency and planning will put you leaps and bounds ahead of others.
2. Niche Down: Find Your Unique Angle
Again, you’ve heard it before. Stick to what you know. It’s cliche but it’s true. You’re able to share your most truthful side when you’re speaking about what you know. That’s when the passion comes out, that’s when you share the deepest parts of who you are.
Some examples of successful podcasts can be: Crime Junkie. Why is she successful? She does her research. She is able to talk about “what she knows” because she takes the time to study and research it, making sure that she is sharing the most accurate information to her audience.
3. Know Your Audience
Understanding your target audience is the key to creating engaging content. It’s comparable to when you’re talking with your friends and the ideas and vibes are flowing. There's a free thought process of whatever the topic is and that’s because you KNOW who you’re talking to. When it comes to creating a podcast it’s in the same vein.
If you enjoy what you’re talking about then you will find those that enjoy listening and engaging with you. Don’t forget to utilize feedback, analytics, etc. when starting a podcast and beginning the journey of knowing your audience. They will give wonderful pointers that help pave the way for your podcast's success.
4. Plan Compelling Content
Research, research, research. Plan, plan, plan. Successful podcasts are not the result of chance. You need a strategy for your episodes, including the topics you’ll cover, the format, and the way you present them. Be sure to also think about your episode length and consistency, so your listeners know what to expect.
5. Invest in High-Quality Audio
Audio quality is one of the most important elements of a successful podcast. If your audio sounds bad, it doesn’t matter how great your content is—people will tune out. Imagine trying to listen to an interesting conversation, but the sound is muffled or filled with static. It’s frustrating, and it takes away from the message you’re trying to share.
To create a podcast that stands out, investing in a good microphone and recording setup is essential. Even if you're on a budget, there are affordable booth rentals that offer excellent sound quality! For example here at BSPOKE/LA we have 2 booths for rental. One audio & visual booth and one audio only booth starting at $75/hour.
Once your podcast is ready to publish, take the time to edit and clean up your audio to remove any distracting sounds or awkward pauses. Consistent, clear sound will make a big difference in how your listeners perceive your podcast and will keep them coming back for more.
6. Consistency Is Key
When starting a podcast, consistency is more important than you may realize. Whether you choose to release episodes weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly, stick to your schedule. Consistent uploads help build an audience who knows when to expect new content from you. It also establishes trust with your listeners—if they know you're going to deliver fresh episodes regularly, they are more likely to stay engaged.
Consistency doesn’t just apply to releasing episodes—it also applies to your podcast’s style, tone, and format. Being predictable with the flow of your episodes, how you engage with your audience, and the type of content you deliver can foster loyalty and a sense of familiarity. That’s how you build a community.
7. Promote Your Podcast
Creating a podcast is just the beginning. The next hurdle is making sure people actually listen to it. Promotion is crucial for growing your audience. Leverage social media to spread the word, engage with potential listeners, and share snippets or highlights from your episodes.
Consider reaching out to other podcasters for guest appearances or collaborations. This can introduce you to their audience and create new opportunities for your show. Additionally, be sure to have a website or landing page where people can easily find all your episodes, show notes, and other relevant content. Don't forget to encourage your listeners to leave reviews and ratings, as this can significantly improve your visibility on platforms like Apple Podcasts.
8. Keep Evolving and Stay Authentic
The world of podcasting is constantly evolving, so it's important to keep learning and improving your craft. Don’t be afraid to try new formats, experiment with your content, or even take risks. Stay open to feedback and embrace growth while staying true to your core message and values.
At the end of the day, creating a podcast that stands out is all about being consistent, authentic, and connected to your audience. Keep honing your skills, improving your audio, and promoting your podcast. With time and dedication, you'll find your unique voice and build a loyal following.
Final Thoughts
Remember, podcasting is a journey, not a destination. As long as you’re being yourself, embracing the process, and connecting with your audience, you’re already on the right path. Keep going, stay creative, and most importantly, have fun with it!
Your podcast has the potential to impact others, so don’t hold back—make it count.
