What Makes a Podcast Good?

You’ve done it. You’ve decided it is time to create your podcast! Well done! We are sure there are lots of great ideas running through your head about your new podcast, and maybe some doubts too.

But don’t worry, we are here to help with those! One of the most frequently asked questions is what makes a podcast good? Many of us want our podcast to be a success and are after as many tips as possible. There is fierce competition out there, but don’t let that put you off!

Today, we will look at exactly what makes a podcast good to help you begin your podcasting journey today! Keep reading to find out more. Be sure to check out our FAQ section, too, for some great tips for your podcast!

What makes a podcast good?

So, what makes a podcast good? There are a few factors that will make a podcast good. To help make your podcast the best possible, we will look at them in closer detail now.

You can choose whether to incorporate all of these factors or just a few to help make your podcast good.

Keep it focused!

Your podcast needs to appeal to an audience and have something to say. Whether it is providing knowledge on a topic or discussing current events, there should be a theme to your podcast.

To ensure your podcast is good and successful, make sure that it is focused on this central theme or idea. Keeping the podcast focused will allow your audience to know what to expect and keep listeners returning for future episodes.

Here it is a good idea to make use of your episode titles. Focused, punchy titles will not only attract a new audience but let existing listeners know what to expect from the episode.

Whether it will be exploring a new aspect of your topic or an interview with an expert, keep the title and the episode itself focused.

Keep being you!

You, the host, are an integral part of the podcast. Sure, people will tune in to hear about a topic of interest, but it is your voice that will keep them engaged week after week! To do this, make sure you are your authentic and lovable self!

Listeners appreciate an authentic host that is not afraid of opening up and even showing some vulnerability. That doesn’t mean you need to reveal the inner workings of your soul in every episode!

Listeners like to know about their hosts; revealing more of your character will engage your audience and keep them coming back week after week!

The Structure is Key

Your podcast’s episodes should follow a structure. Not only will it help you plan your episodes out, but it allows your audience to listen with ease. Just like writing a story, consider the beginning, middle, and end of your podcast.

Introducing your podcast, cover the main points you want to discuss, and pull them all together is a great and straightforward structure to follow that will help your podcasts come to life.

When interviewing guests, you can use the middle section of the podcast for this content. Be sure that it is still relevant content, as we discussed earlier. When planning your podcast, work out rough timings for each section to help build a clear structure that you can follow as you record it.

You might find it useful to share this with guests you are interviewing so that you can all follow the same schedule. Remember, a good plan never hurts anyone!

Remember your schedule!

Perhaps not the most exciting or groundbreaking tip, but a regular release schedule goes hand in hand with a good podcast. Think of it as content creators or TV shows; your audience will become used to and expect a regular schedule.

Not only does it keep you focused and your podcast on track, but it allows listeners to tune in regularly. Setting out a regular schedule when you begin your podcast can help with this. Mention your podcasts how often you release a new show; it’s best to stick to the same time and day for continuity.

Consider how much time you can dedicate to the podcast. Is this a part-time gig in the evenings, or will this be a full-time job? Be realistic with how much time you can dedicate to your podcast.

Remember not to panic if you do miss an upload. Life happens, and sometimes things are out of your control, be sure you communicate this with your audience; updating them via social media is a great way to do this.

When considering your schedule and time to set aside, it is also worth mentioning the equipment you use for your podcast. You are going to want your podcast to be clear and easy to understand.

Know Your Audience

Having an audience that consistently grows and listens to your podcast is the seal of a successful podcast. You can ensure your audience comes back week after week with the points mentioned above to listen to your take on your chosen topic.

Podcasts can afford to focus on a specific niche or topic, as their audience has usually sought this information out. That’s why it is crucial that you know your audience and what they are looking for from your podcast. It is often worth researching the market, see what other podcasts in your chosen area exist. Is there a gap in the market, and can you fill it?

It’s a good idea to make sure your content is clearly labeled to help your audience find you. It also helps keep you on track to create quality content your audience will enjoy.

You can also ask your audience what they would like to help tailor your content. Building a relationship with your listeners will enhance your podcast and allow you to create content that you and your audience will enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Get your last-minute queries answered here!

What questions do you ask on a podcast?

It is best to ask open-ended questions on a podcast that will allow for a conversation to spark. When interviewing a guest, a great question to start with is asking them to introduce themselves. You can learn more about your guest and ask further questions about their interests and hobbies outside of the episode’s topic.

Keep your questions relevant to the topic and what your guest has just said. It’s good to have a variety of questions using keywords like “who,” “what,” “when,” “where,” “why,” and “how.” Ensure that the question is one you want the answer to and help your audience learn more about the topic.

When asking questions, be sure that you are unbiased and respectful of your guest’s opinions. You will also need to be mindful of sensitive and emotional topics. It’s a good idea to mention this before any questions, so your guest and audience are aware.

How do you ask a question on a podcast?

To ask your question on a podcast, wait until your guest has stopped talking and use an open-ended question, as we mentioned earlier. Make sure that you have listened to your guest’s response to tailor your next question.

Again, opt for a relevant question to what your guest has said, or use the pause to discuss a new topic. For example, you could pose your question as “that is insightful, how do you think that will implicate__? Fill the blank in with the topic you have been discussing.

There might be times where you need to interrupt your guest with a question. Whether they have gone off-topic or eating into your discussion time, asking a question can bring the discussion back on track.

Be sure to start your question with an apology for interrupting your guest. Usually, it is best to avoid interrupting your guest, but it can be necessary to keep your podcast focused and enjoyable in these cases.

Asking questions can be daunting, be sure to prepare a few open-ended questions, take a deep breath and ask away!

What should I talk about on my first podcast?

When it comes to your first podcast, it is a good idea to introduce viewers to you and your thoughts. Talk about what the podcast will focus on, your interests, and perhaps why you have decided to create a podcast. You could discuss a television series, discuss a subject of interest, the news, politics, offer business advice, or choose your favorite topic. The list is endless; make sure it is something you enjoy discussing!

When deciding what to talk about, make sure it is an exciting topic you are passionate about. You might want to interview an expert in this area; for example, you could interview a gamer or a chef, depending on the topic.

It is also worth promoting any blogs, websites, or social media platforms linked to yourself or the podcast. Link them in the description of your podcast so that your audience can continue interacting with you after the podcast.

What makes a good podcast host?

There are a few things that make a good podcast host. The most important thing is being charismatic and engaging with your audience. After all, who would want to listen to a dull and boring voice?

Ensure that your content is engaging and that you are excited by it! The excitement in your voice will get your listeners excited! You will also need to put any guests at ease and encourage a respectful conversation and debate where necessary.

You will also need to know the subject you are discussing, understand your audience, and be prepared when interviewing guests. It also helps when a podcast host does not overload listeners with information.

Keep it interesting, engaging, and not too dense. Planning your episodes and being your usual great self will make you a good podcast host!

Can you swear on a podcast?

Yes, you can swear on a podcast. For certain podcast services, such as the Apple podcast, you will need to label your podcast as explicit when uploading it. Failing to do so can result in your podcast being removed. You can label the whole podcast as explicit or just the episodes where swearing is included.

Most streaming services will ask you to identify if your podcast includes explicit content, and swearing is included in this. Be sure that you clearly label your podcast as mature or with explicit content to avoid any issues from your podcast service and upset viewers.

It is your personal choice whether or not to swear in a podcast. Remember your target audience when deciding whether to include swear words or not.

If your podcast is directed at a younger audience, it might not be appropriate to have that language. Consider your audience and your content when deciding whether to swear or not in your podcast.

Can I do a podcast by myself?

Of course, you can! You can do a podcast by yourself, but there are some factors you will need to consider beforehand. Podcasting on your own, or solo podcasting, can be easier at the beginning.

You don’t need to wait for anyone to begin; grab your gear and go! It allows you to record at times that suit you and create content you want to create.

Even if your podcast starts with just you, that doesn’t mean you can’t have guest hosts or hold interviews with other guests. The choice of a podcast by yourself or others is an entirely personal one for you to make.

However, it can be a lot of work doing a podcast by yourself. You will need to create all the content, record it yourself, edit it, distribute it, and market the podcast to ensure you have viewers. If you have a company endorsing the podcast, this can make the process easier.