Podcasting is booming. Everyone wants a mic. Everyone wants an audience.
But here’s the hard truth: most podcasts fail.
They launch with energy, then fizzle out after a few episodes. Not because the host isn’t smart or passionate—but because they skipped the foundational work.
If you’re thinking about starting a podcast, read this first.
Here are 3 things you absolutely need to do before you hit “record.”
1. Get clear on the purpose (not just the topic)
Too many podcasts start with a vague idea like, “I want to talk about business” or “I want to have meaningful conversations.”
That’s not enough.
Ask:
- What is this podcast for?
- Who is it helping?
- What problem does it solve—or what value does it give?
Example:
Topic: Entrepreneurship
Purpose: Helping first-time founders avoid burnout while scaling their side hustle.
The clearer you are, the more focused your content will be—and the easier it is for listeners to know it’s for them.
2. Design a repeatable format
Don’t wing it every week. The best shows feel consistent—even when the content changes.
Decide on a structure:
- Is it solo or interview-based?
- Are episodes 10 minutes or 45?
- Will you have segments (e.g., intro, tip of the week, Q&A)?
- Is there a signature question or style?
A solid format keeps things tight, professional, and easier to produce. It also helps you stay consistent—the real key to podcast growth.
3. Have a growth + monetization plan
Most people launch a podcast and just… hope someone finds it.
If you don’t have a plan to grow and monetize, it’ll become an expensive hobby fast.
Before launching, ask:
- How will I promote each episode? (email list, social media, cross-promotion?)
- What’s my lead magnet or call-to-action?
- Will I monetize through sponsorships, services, products, or memberships?
Your podcast isn’t just content—it’s a channel. Treat it like part of your business, not a side project.
Action Step
Before you record anything, write down these 3 things:
- Who the podcast is for and what problem it solves
- The structure of a typical episode
- How each episode will lead to growth or revenue
If you can’t answer all three clearly, don’t start yet. Start there.
