Episode 432 - 4 Must-Have and 4 Might Harm Considerations for a Great Podcast Name

Naming your podcast is one of the most important early decisions you’ll make as a creator. A great name can help your show stand out, attract your ideal audience, and make it easy for listeners to find you. Here’s a practical framework to guide you, along with common pitfalls to avoid.4 Must-Have Framework Ideas for a Great Podcast Name

1. Search-Friendly and Discoverable

   • Use keywords your target audience would actually type into podcast apps or Google.

   • Avoid obscure references or inside jokes unless your audience is already in on them.

2. Simple, Clear, and Easy to Spell

   • Choose a name that’s easy to pronounce, spell, and remember.

   • Avoid puns or wordplay that could be confusing when heard aloud.

3. Targeted and Relevant

   • Make sure your name gives a clear idea of your show’s topic, tone, or target audience.

   • Let the title help listeners “opt in” or “opt out” at a glance.

4. Unique but Not Overcomplicated

   • Stand out from the crowd, but don’t sacrifice clarity for cleverness.

   • Check for existing podcasts or brands with similar names to avoid legal or SEO issues.

4 Things That Might Harm Your Podcast Name

1. Odd Spellings or Letter/Number Combos

   • Avoid names like “Cre8tive Minds” or “Blubrry Chat”—they’re hard to spell and search for.

   • Listeners might not find you if they can’t guess the spelling.

2. Too Generic or Vague

   • Names like “The Podcast Show” or “Talk Time” don’t stand out and won’t help with searchability.

   • You want listeners to know what your show is about immediately.

3. Overly Long or Complicated Titles

   • Long names are hard to remember, hard to say, and may get cut off in podcast apps.

   • Keep it concise and punchy.

4. Using Trademarked or Popular Brand Names

   • Avoid names that could cause legal trouble or confusion with existing brands.

   • Always do a search to make sure your name is available.

Pro Tip: Test Your Podcast Name with Voice Search

Speak your podcast name into your phone’s voice assistant or a smart speaker.
If the search results are frustrating or inaccurate, your listeners will have the same problem. This is a quick way to test if your name is easy to find and pronounce.

Quick Recap

• Do: Make it simple, clear, targeted, and search-friendly.

• Don’t: Use odd spellings, generic terms, long titles, or trademarked names.

A great podcast name is your first handshake with your audience—make it count!

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https://howtopodcast.ca/

Episode 431 - Cutting Through the Marketing Clichés - Speaking Your Listener’s Language

The temptation to use trendy marketing jargon, complicated vocabulary, or AI-generated scripts can create a real disconnect between the host and the audience. Let’s break down why this happens, why it matters, and how to keep your podcast authentic and relatable.Why Podcasters Fall into the Marketing Speak Trap

• Pressure to Sound Professional: Many creators believe that using big words or industry lingo makes them sound more credible or authoritative.

• AI-Generated Content: Tools like AI assistants can be helpful, but if you simply read what’s generated without editing for your own voice, it can sound stiff or unnatural.

• Trend Chasing: There’s a desire to keep up with what’s “hot” in the podcasting world, leading to overuse of buzzwords and cliches.

The Risks of Overusing Jargon and Cliches

• Loss of Authenticity: Listeners can tell when you’re not speaking in your natural voice. Forced language feels inauthentic and can erode trust.

• Audience Disconnection: Not everyone in your audience knows what “tangential” or “parasocial” means. Using these words without explanation can make people feel excluded.

• Missed Connection: The real magic of podcasting is in building relationships and community. Talking over your audience’s heads puts up a wall instead of building a bridge.

How to Stay Authentic and Connect with Your Audience

Know Your Audience

Speak the way your listeners speak. If your show is for new podcasters, use simple, clear language. If you’re talking to industry experts, it’s okay to use more technical terms—but always define them.

AI tools are great for brainstorming, but always rewrite or edit the output in your own voice. Make sure the words you use are words you’d actually say in conversation.

Phrases like “think outside the box” or “move the needle” are tired and often meaningless. Replace them with specific, concrete language that paints a picture for your listeners.

The most successful podcasters sound like themselves. Don’t be afraid to show your personality, quirks, and even your mistakes. That’s what makes you relatable.

Ask your audience how you’re doing. Are you coming across as genuine? Are there words or phrases that confuse them? Use their feedback to improve.There are no awards for using the fanciest vocabulary or the most buzzwords. The real reward is building a loyal, engaged audience that feels seen and heard. Drop the marketing speak, ditch the cliches, and speak from the heart. Your listeners will thank you—and your podcast will be better for it.Remember: Connection beats perfection every time. Speak to be understood, not to impress. That’s how you build real community, one episode at a time.____

https://howtopodcast.ca/

Episode 430 - CO-HOST - Aisosa Wisdom Okonkwo - Host of Wisdom Journey - Building in Public and PodMatch

Wisdom Journey Podcast Follow my unfiltered, real-time journey as I navigate the world of online income. No fake success stories or get-rich-quick schemes – just honest documentation of wins, losses, and everything in between. Each episode captures my weekly experiments with different online business models: freelancing, digital products, affiliate marketing, and more. I share exact numbers, strategies that worked (and failed), and the brutal reality of building income

https://pod.link/1797567459

https://wisdom.beehiiv.com/

https://x.com/AisosaMedia/

Episode 429 - Maximize Your Discoverability - Choosing the Right Podcast Category

Getting your show listed under the correct podcast categories helps with discoverability and ensures it reaches people who are naturally interested in your content. In this guide, you’ll learn what podcast categories are, why they matter, how to pick the right ones, and what the most popular and niche options look like.

Podcast categories are tags used by directories like Apple Podcasts and Spotify to organize and list shows. These categories help listeners discover new podcasts by interest area. Categories range from broad ones like News or Comedy to niche ones like Fashion & Beauty or Entrepreneurship.

The Joe Rogan Experience fits under multiple relevant categories:

• Comedy > Comedy Interviews

• Society & Culture

• News > News CommentaryWhy Is It Important to Choose the Right Podcast Category?

  Discoverability

Most listeners discover new shows by browsing categories or charts within those categories. The right fit boosts your chances of visibility.

Correct categorization means your show is shown to users who are already interested in similar content, making them more likely to click and listen.

Categories with lower competition might allow your show to climb the charts faster, helping you gain early traction.

Audience Targeting

Chart PotentialHow to Choose the Right Podcast Category1. Define Your Show’s Core Theme

Think about what your podcast is actually about and the specific subject matter you focus on regularly.

What topics do you cover? Could your show fall under different genres like Health, Education, or Leisure?

Use tools like Chartable or browse Apple/Spotify charts to see where similar shows are listed.

Don’t choose an unrelated, low-competition category just to try to rank. This can backfire and potentially get you removed from directories.

Targeting a niche category can be strategic if it aligns with your content and has less competition.

Use Multiple Lenses

Look at the Competition

Avoid Irrelevant Categories

Balance Popularity and SpecificityCategorizing your podcast correctly is critical for being discovered, reaching the right audience, and climbing the charts. Choose relevant, descriptive categories that align with your content and audience’s expectations. You can update categories as your show evolves—but always weigh the pros and cons.For Podcasters Wanting to Optimize

• Captivate.fm Guide to Podcast Categories:
  https://www.captivate.fm
  ➤ Offers in-depth tips on setting categories in their dashboard and why it matters.

• Podnews Category Trends & Charts:
  https://podnews.net
  ➤ Stay current with industry news, new category launches, and chart changes.

• Edison Research – Podcast Consumer Reports:
  https://www.edisonresearch.com
  ➤ Data on the most popular podcast genres and listener behavior.

For Better Podcast Discovery

• Apple Podcasts Browse Page:
  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/genre/podcasts/id26
  ➤ Browse by categories, top charts, and featured shows.

• Spotify Podcast Categories Hub:
  Open the Spotify app > "Search" tab > Scroll to "Podcasts" > Explore by genre
  ➤ Great for seeing what’s trending and tailored by user interest.

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  https://howtopodcast.ca/

Episode 428 - The Regular Podcast Episode Checkup - Essential Podcast Tune-Ups for Every Creator

Regular Items to Review for Your Podcast at Milestone Intervals

As your podcast grows, setting regular review points—such as every 50 episodes—is essential for keeping your show fresh, relevant, and optimized for growth. Here are key areas to audit and update at these intervals, along with actionable suggestions:

Podcast Website

• Review and update your website’s content, images, and features to ensure accuracy and relevance. Regularly check for broken links, outdated information, and add new content to boost SEO and user experience

• Consider a design refresh or adding new sections (e.g., resources, guest profiles, listener testimonials).

Show Notes and Transcripts

• Update your show notes format to include comprehensive summaries, key points, quotes, and relevant links. Well-crafted show notes improve discoverability, listener value, and SEO

• Ensure transcripts are available for accessibility and search optimization.

Call to Action (CTA)

• Reevaluate your episode CTAs. Make sure you’re consistently encouraging listeners to take meaningful actions—such as subscribing, sharing, leaving reviews, or visiting your website. Update CTAs to align with your current goals (e.g., promoting a new newsletter or community)

Show Artwork and Branding

• Assess your podcast artwork and branding elements. Consider a refresh to stay visually appealing and in line with current trends or your evolving brand identity.

Podcast Name and Description

• Review your podcast title and description. If your show’s focus has shifted, update the name or add a relevant extension for clarity and discoverability.

Episode Titles

• Audit past episode titles for clarity, SEO, and intrigue. Refresh underperforming or outdated titles to boost downloads and engagement

• Use concise, descriptive, and curiosity-driven titles with action-oriented language and numbers when appropriate.

Audio Quality and Equipment

• Listen critically to your recent episodes. Evaluate your audio quality, editing, and production choices. Consider upgrading equipment or software if needed to maintain a professional sound

Content Strategy

• Reflect on your episode formats, topics, and guest diversity. Adjust your content calendar to align with listener feedback and analytics.

Technical and Platform Updates

• Ensure your podcast is distributed to all major platforms and your RSS feed is up to date.

• Check analytics tools and integrate any new features offered by hosting platforms.

  
  

  Podcast Trailer

  • Update your Podcast Trailer - you have grown, the tone of your show has matured - be sure that your trailer reflects your current episodes so as to not appear dated

    
    

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    https://howtopodcast.ca/

Episode 427 - That Podcast Guru Was Wrong - Why Your Podcast Needs a Trailer Episode

Why Your Podcast Needs a Trailer Episode

Benefits of a Podcast Trailer

• A podcast trailer is a short, engaging preview that introduces your show, highlights its key themes, and teases upcoming content

• It acts as your podcast’s "elevator pitch," giving potential listeners a quick sense of what to expect, who you are, and why they should subscribe

• Trailers help build anticipation and attract an audience before your first full episode drops, allowing you to start growing your listener base early

• For podcasters, creating a trailer clarifies your message and helps you succinctly communicate your show’s value

How Podcast Player Apps Display Trailers

• Apple Podcasts and Spotify both give trailers prominent placement. On Apple Podcasts, trailers appear in their own section within your show’s listing and are often displayed at the top of the episode list

• Spotify automatically shows the first trailer episode in your RSS feed at the top of your episode list, making it the first thing new listeners encounter

• Marking an episode as a trailer is straightforward with most podcast hosts, ensuring it’s recognized and featured by major platforms

What Makes a Good Podcast Trailer

• Introduce yourself and your show clearly and concisely

• Tease the core themes, topics, and unique value your podcast offers

• Use an engaging tone that reflects your podcast’s personality and style

• Include a clear call to action, such as subscribing or following your show

• Keep it focused-highlight what listeners will gain and what makes your podcast different

Ideal Trailer Episode Length

• Most effective podcast trailers are between 60 and 90 seconds long

• This length is long enough to convey essential information but short enough to keep it punchy and engaging

• Avoid making your trailer longer than two minutes; brevity is key to holding attention

What to Avoid Saying in Your Trailer

• Don’t oversell or mislead-be honest about your content and style to set accurate expectations

• Avoid overusing sound effects or gimmicks that distract from your message

• Don’t forget a clear call to action at the end

• Steer clear of vague promises or generic statements; be specific about what listeners will experience

• Don’t make your trailer feel like a full episode or an extended introduction-keep it concise and focused on the hook

Make your podcast trailers short, clear, and evoke excitement and anticipation, helping your trailer stand out in podcast apps and to new listeners

Source:

https://www.quillpodcasting.com/blog-posts/podcast-trailer____

https://howtopodcast.ca/

Episode 426 - The Reason for the Season - Would Podcasting in Seasons Right for You

Advantages and Disadvantages of Podcasting in Seasons

Advantages

• Prevents Burnout and Allows for Breaks
  Structuring your podcast into seasons provides natural breaks between production cycles, giving creators time to recharge, reflect, and plan without the constant pressure to publish. This is especially beneficial for solo podcasters or those balancing multiple responsibilities.

• Improved Planning and Content Quality
  Seasons encourage batch production and long-term planning, leading to more cohesive, higher-quality episodes. Podcasters can focus on research, scripting, and recording in dedicated time blocks, resulting in a polished and consistent listening experience.

• Focused Themes and Story Arcs
  Thematic seasons make it easier to explore topics in depth and create compelling story arcs, which can enhance listener engagement and learning. This structure is particularly effective for narrative, educational, or investigative podcasts.

• Strategic Marketing Opportunities
  Season launches and finales offer clear opportunities for targeted marketing campaigns, building anticipation and engagement through teasers, previews, and promotional materials.

• Opportunity for Feedback and Evolution
  Breaks between seasons provide natural checkpoints to gather audience feedback, review performance, and make strategic adjustments for future episodes.

• Flexibility for Experimentation
  Each new season can be an opportunity to test new formats, topics, or approaches without overhauling the entire podcast

Disadvantages

• Risk of Losing Audience Momentum
  Extended breaks between seasons can lead to a drop in listener engagement. Without consistent communication, audiences may lose interest or forget about the show.

• Increased Planning and Production Demands
  While seasons allow for batch production, they require significant upfront planning and coordination, which can be overwhelming, especially for new podcasters.

• Potential Incompatibility with Certain Formats
  News, current events, or timely commentary podcasts may not suit a seasonal format, as these shows often require regular, up-to-date content.

• Technical and Organizational Challenges
  Improper use of season and episode numbering can lead to confusion in podcast apps, making it harder for listeners to find the latest episodes or navigate the catalog.

• Audience Discovery Issues
  New listeners might find it difficult to jump into a podcast with multiple interconnected seasons, especially if the structure isn’t clearly communicated.

• Pressure to Maintain Consistency
  Some podcasters may feel locked into a set number of episodes per season, which can be restrictive and may not fit all content needs

Podcasting in seasons can offer significant creative and logistical benefits, but it also introduces challenges around planning, audience retention, and technical management. The decision to use a seasonal format should be based on your content type, audience needs, and production capacity___

https://howtopodcast.ca/