Starting your own podcast can be incredibly rewarding, both creatively and financially, but it doesn’t come without its fair share of challenges. In this blog post, we discuss four of the most common mistakes that new podcasters make when starting their show, and what you can do to avoid them.

Not Having a Focus

The best podcasts are those with a niche. You will want to choose a topic that you are passionate about and that you know there is an audience for. Speak with potential listeners one-on-one, and ask what kinds of episodes and subjects they would be interested in hearing. Plan your strategy accordingly, while keeping in mind an ultimate goal.

Being Inflexible

While it’s important to have a goal, strategy, and niche for your podcast, you also want to leave room for flexibility. As a new podcaster, you must remain open to the possibility of change. Most podcasters start with one focus, and end up adjusting — if not completely changing — it based on their viewership. The podcast industry is constantly evolving, and so should you!

Prioritizing the Wrong Things

It’s easy for many new podcasters to get caught up on details like having the perfect guest or the fanciest recording equipment. However, the most important things to prioritize when starting your show are community and influence. There’s no point worrying over expensive mics if you have no one to listen to what you’ve recorded! As your community and influence grows, so will your opportunities to rework the finer details.

Winging It

Successful podcasters may sound like they’ve gone into the studio with no plan whatsoever, but this is an illusion. It takes research, planning, and practice to be able to pull off a compelling, informative, and conversational show. While it’s important to leave some room for spontaneity, you’ll want to go into each episode with a solid plan of what you want to say, and how.

Are you interested in launching a podcast or growing your current one? Turnkey Podcast Productions can help you start or improve your podcast, build community, grow your influence, and make money in the process. Explore our comprehensive podcast production services today!