You want to podcast, but you don't know what you want to say
Is this you? Do you want to get behind the microphone, but aren't sure what kind of podcast you want to have?
Do you even need a topic, or can you get behind the microphone and start a podcast about "anything and everything"? The reason I put that in quotes is because plenty of podcasts use that phrase to describe themselves. I'm not saying it's a bad thing, either. I listen to plenty of comedy podcasts that use that exact phrase.
But I will recommend if you're thinking of using a podcast to boost your brand or business, maybe the "anything and everything" route isn't for you.
Avoid Podfading
A common statistic in podcasting is that most podcasts fade (known as "podfading") within seven episodes. I've even subscribed to a new show I've loved, only to have it podfade and it's almost heartbreaking.
Many times it's because the work that goes into a podcast can get overwhelming, especially when you're brand new and haven't gotten into the groove yet. But another common reason for Podfading is running out of material to talk about.
This is where the "anything and everything" can actually hurt a show, because it's too broad and it's hard to focus or even know where to begin to look for information.
Narrow your topic by focusing on your passion
You'll hear in the business world to find your niche, and the same can be said for podcasting. In fact, you're most likely going to find a more engaged audience that way.
One reason the "anything and everything" idea is so popular is because when you see that phrase, you might be inclined to think "it's a show for everybody"! But there are plenty of quotes to prove that's rarely a good tactic when it comes to putting yourself out there.
You want to find your audience, but, more importantly, an engaged audience.
Do you have something you love that gets you on the edge of your seat when you talk about it? What kinds of hobbies or interests do you have that you get excited when someone else shares them?
“You want to find your audience, but, more importantly, an engaged audience.”
If you're having trouble coming up with something off the top of your head, take a look at Facebook groups you're a part of. Or look at people or businesses you follow on Twitter, Instagram, or Pinterest. Which groups are you the most active in? Which Twitter accounts do you retweet most often? Is there a theme to the pictures you like on Instagram? Are there certain boards you pin to the most on Pinterest? Maybe even look at the kinds of websites you visit most often.
Even if you don't think you're an expert on any particular topic, if you enjoy talking about it, you can make an incredible podcast about your passion. You have a unique perspective on it no one else has.
Does the world really need another ____ podcast?
Maybe you think your passion is too popular and there are already too many podcasts about it. Remember, you have a unique voice and your own perspective on it. Those who find your show and become your audience may listen to other podcasts about the same subject, trying to immerse themselves in it as much as they can.
While there may be a lot of podcasts about movies, for example, I only subscribe to a few of them because I like those hosts and how they present the information. (By the way, my favorites are Epic Film Guys, The Countdown: Movie and TV Review, Film Roast, and Netflix 'N Swill.)
This also isn't a medium like radio or television where you're competing against others in your niche or in a particular timeslot -- that's the beauty of on-demand media consumption.
If you're still worried about podcasting on a popular topic, you can distinguish your show by putting it in a format that might not have been done before, which I'll talk about in a future post, but you can also schedule a strategy session with me to brainstorm ideas for ways you can make your show stand out in a crowded niche.
Want to work with me? Schedule a Strategy Session!
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