These Mistakes Could Make You Quit Podcasting

Let’s get real: podcasting isn’t always easy.

What starts as a passion project can quickly turn into a source of frustration if you’re not careful.

Plenty of podcasters call it quits because of avoidable mistakes, but you’re not going to be one of them, because you’re about to learn what NOT to do.

1. Overcomplicating your setup wastes time.

Ever feel like setting up your podcast gear takes longer than recording the episode?

If you’ve got cables tangled like spaghetti and a mountain of gear you barely know how to use, you’re making things way harder than they need to be.

Fix it: Simplify your setup! A basic mic, audio interface, and editing software are all you really need to start. I'm talking $500 or less. Focus on creating content, not wrangling tech. Fewer cables equals less time untangling and more time podcasting.

2. Ignoring audience feedback is a missed opportunity.

Your listeners are your best resource for improvement.

If they’re telling you your episodes are too long or that they love your deep dives, take that feedback into consideration. Even if you had a vision of what your podcast would be, if your audience prefers otherwise, you're best off listening to them if you want it to grow. Any podcast (besides maybe a passion project or hobby) is for the audience, not for you!

Fix it: Encourage feedback! Create polls, read reviews, or simply ask your audience what they want. Then, use that input to shape your content. It’s a win-win: better episodes for them, better engagement for you.

3. Skipping marketing limits growth.

You could have the best podcast in the world, but if no one knows about it, it doesn’t matter.

Hoping people magically discover your show is a nice fantasy, but just isn't reality.

Fix it: Promote, promote, promote! Post on social media, collaborate with other podcasters, or ask guests to share their episodes. One-on-one conversations and word of mouth are also a key step. Even small efforts can make a big difference in growing your audience.

Podcasting can be an incredible journey, but only if you set yourself up for success.

Keep your setup simple, listen to your audience, and make an effort to market your show. You already have the passion, now all you need is persistence.