How to Start a Podcast With No Audience

Reading Time: 12 minutes

Starting a podcast from scratch can feel like embarking on a solo journey into the vast expanse of the internet.

The challenge is real, especially when faced with the daunting prospect of launching a podcast with no existing audience.

I get it; I’ve spent hours diving into this research for you as I kick off my podcasting adventure.

But fear not! In this post, we’re diving headfirst into podcasting, exploring how to kick off your podcasting adventure, and answering your question about “How to start a podcast with no audience?”

Before we begin let’s take a quick look at some ways to start a podcast with no audience and keep reading to find out more.

Launching a podcast without an audience may seem like stepping into the unknown, but it’s also an opportunity to carve your unique niche in the digital soundscape.

How can you turn the challenge of starting with no audience into a strategic advantage?

Before jumping into the good stuff, clarify what I won’t cover in this post.

I won’t delve into the nitty-gritty of podcasting equipment and setup. I’ve covered that in another excellent post here if you want guidance on those fundamental aspects.

Ready to start your podcast? Let’s do this!

But First – Why Start a Podcast?

Embarking on the journey of starting a podcast is like opening the door to a world of endless possibilities.

Beyond the apparent allure of having your platform to express thoughts and ideas, podcasting offers a unique and intimate way to connect with an audience. It’s a chance to share your passions, experiences, and expertise in a conversational format, breaking free from the constraints of traditional mediums.

In a world of digital content, a podcast allows you to carve out your space and create a genuine connection with your listeners. The power lies in the authenticity of your voice and the stories you choose to tell.

According to eMarketer and PodcastIndex, by 2025, global listeners are expected to surpass 500 million, or around 23.5% of all Internet users.

Whether driven by a desire to entertain, educate, or engage in meaningful conversations, podcasting provides a dynamic platform to explore, experiment, and leave a lasting impact.

It’s not just about being heard; it’s about fostering a community that resonates with your unique perspective.

So, if you’ve ever found yourself passionate about a topic or itching to share your voice with the world, starting a podcast might be the key to unlocking a new realm of connection and expression.

How to Start a Podcast with No Audience

Now that we’ve covered the expanding landscape of podcasts and established that launching a podcast without an existing audience is feasible let’s shift our focus to the practical aspect: How exactly does one start a podcast?

We will navigate the exciting terrain of podcast creation in the upcoming segments together.

I’ll guide you, breaking the process into manageable steps. From defining your niche, crafting compelling content, navigating the technical aspects, and strategically growing your audience, we’ll cover each facet with practical insights and actionable tips.

Whether you’re a seasoned podcaster looking to refine your approach or a newcomer eager to embark on this thrilling journey, my goal is to provide you with a roadmap that’s both informative and engaging.

So, buckle up as we explore this step-by-step guide to starting a podcast and embark on a meaningful and successful podcasting adventure.

How to Choose a Podcast Name?

Selecting the perfect name for your podcast is like giving it a distinct identity, and it’s a decision that carries more weight than you might think.

Start by brainstorming names that resonate with the essence of your content and the vibe you want to convey. Consider names that are catchy, memorable, and reflective of your podcast’s personality. Remember, you are creating a brand identity, and it’s your brand.

Think about your potential listeners—what kind of name would attract them? It’s like crafting the title of a book; it should be intriguing enough to make someone want to press play.

Also, check the availability of the name to ensure it’s unique and hasn’t been claimed by another podcast.

Once you’ve compiled a shortlist, bounce the ideas off friends, family, or potential listeners to gather feedback.

Remember, your podcast name is your first impression, so make it count. It’s the gateway to your content, setting the tone for the journey you invite your audience to embark upon.

So, choose wisely, and let your podcast name become the beacon that attracts listeners to your unique corner of the digital soundscape.

How to Choose a Podcast Niche?

Embarking on your podcasting journey begins with a crucial decision: choosing your niche. It’s like finding the beating heart of your show—the unique theme or subject that not only aligns with your passion but also captivates your broader audience.

Think of it as the compass guiding your content. Your niche defines what sets your podcast apart in the vast sea of digital voices.

So, ask yourself: What topic ignites your enthusiasm? What are you genuinely curious about, eager to explore and share with the world? Are you interested in current events? The more specific and authentic your niche, the easier it is for like-minded individuals to discover and connect with your podcast.

Remember, your niche isn’t just a label; it’s the essence that will keep your content focused and your audience engaged and create a loyal following.

Whether unraveling true crime mysteries, delving into the intricacies of a particular industry, or sharing personal stories of triumph, your niche is the foundation upon which your podcasting adventure is built.

So, spend some time exploring your passions, take that first step thoughtfully, and let your interests guide you to a niche that speaks to you and resonates with the audience you’re eager to reach.

Who is Your Target Audience

Understanding and defining your target audience is essential for your podcast to thrive.

Your audience is not just a group of listeners; they’re the heartbeat of your show, shaping its identity and determining its success.

Consider who you want to connect with and cater to when choosing your niche.

Understanding your target audience enables you to customize your content to meet their needs and interests. It’s about speaking directly to a community that resonates with your passion and perspective.

So, before diving into a niche, ask yourself: Who are you creating content for? What are their interests, challenges, and preferences? This knowledge becomes the compass guiding your content creation journey.

Furthermore, understanding your audience is crucial when crafting your podcast name, format, and even the tone of your episodes. It influences the language you use, the topics you explore, and the overall vibe of your show.

It’s a symbiotic relationship – as you cater to your audience, they, in turn, become your most devoted followers, sharing your podcast with others who share similar interests.

In essence, your target audience is the heartbeat of your podcasting endeavor.

So, take the time to know them, listen to their feedback, and let their preferences guide your creative decisions.

It’s not just about building an audience; it’s about cultivating a community that values and engages with the unique content you bring to the digital airwaves.

How to Choose a Podcast Format

Selecting a suitable podcast format is equally as important as choosing your niche. It’s a decision that shapes your show’s overall vibe and structure, so let’s dive into this creatively charged process.

Consider your content and how you want to engage with your podcast audience.

Are you drawn to the conversational flow of interviews and having podcast guests where you can bring diverse voices and perspectives?

Or perhaps you prefer the solo narrative, where you can delve deep into a topic with a more personal touch?

Don’t shy away from experimenting with a hybrid format, combining interviews, monologues, and maybe even some storytelling elements.

Think about the rhythm of your episodes. Are you aiming for a weekly release, providing consistent content to your target audience? Or does a bi-weekly or monthly schedule better align with the nature of your content and the time you can realistically commit?

Ultimately, your podcast format is the framework through which your narrative unfolds, so let it complement your content and suit your style.

It’s your chance to shape an experience that resonates with you and captivates your listeners, making them eager to hit that play button for every new episode.

So, embrace the creative process, experiment with formats, and let your podcast’s unique storytelling rhythm come to life.

Plan Your Podcast Episodes

Now that you’ve chosen your niche, crafted a compelling name, and honed in on the perfect format, it’s time to embark on the next thrilling phase: planning your episodes.

This is where your podcast truly takes shape, and the journey from concept to captivating content begins.

Start by outlining the overarching themes you want to explore within your niche. What key topics align with your passion and resonate with your target audience?

Consider creating a content calendar to organize your ideas and ensure a balanced mix of topics that will keep your audience engaged.

Once you have your themes in place, dive into the details.

Outline the structure of each episode, whether it’s a captivating introduction, a deep dive into the main content, or perhaps a feature segment that adds variety to your show.

Consider maintaining a consistent tone and style across episodes while keeping the content fresh and exciting.

Don’t forget the power of storytelling. Whether you’re sharing personal anecdotes, expert interviews, or exploring case studies, storytelling adds a human touch to your episodes, creating a connection with your audience.

Planning your episodes is not about rigid scripts but creating a roadmap that allows for spontaneity and authenticity. It’s your chance to share your passion, insights, and personality with your listeners.

So, grab your virtual pen and start sketching the blueprint for episodes that will captivate your audience and keep them eagerly awaiting each new release. Happy planning!

Produce Your Podcast

Producing a successful podcast episode involves integrating creativity and technical know-how.

Let’s break down the key steps to ensure your podcast recording journey is seamless and results in a polished and engaging episode that captivates your audience.

Preparation is Key:

Before hitting the record button, ensure you’ve done your groundwork. Outline your podcast content and episode, create a script, or jot down key points to guide your discussion, and gather any needed materials. Clear, concise planning sets the foundation for a more fluid recording process.

Set the Stage:

Find a quiet space for your podcast recording. Minimize background noise, use reliable microphones, and consider creating a comfortable recording environment. A clear, crisp audio quality is essential for a successful podcast episode.

Tech Check:

Verify that your recording equipment is in excellent condition. Check microphone levels, test your headphones, and confirm that your recording software functions correctly. A bit of tech troubleshooting in advance can save you from potential issues later.

Recording the Episode:

Dive into your content with enthusiasm and authenticity. Follow your script or talking points while allowing room for natural conversation. Remember, a successful podcast episode is not just about what you say but how you say it – infuse your personality into the recording.

Editing Magic:

Once the recording is done, step into the editing room. Trim any unnecessary bits, smooth out transitions, and enhance the overall flow of your podcast. Pay attention to pacing, ensuring your episode is engaging from start to finish. Use podcasting software to help with editing. Quality editing is the secret ingredient for a polished, professional-sounding podcast.

Add Flair with Music and Effects:

Elevate your podcast with carefully chosen intro music and sound effects. These elements can enhance the atmosphere, emphasize key points, and add an extra layer of entertainment. Just be mindful of the balance – sometimes, less is more.

Quality Control:

Before releasing your podcast episode, conduct a final quality check. Listen to the entire episode, ensuring no glitches, awkward pauses, or audio inconsistencies. This last step ensures that your audience receives a flawless listening experience.

Select a Hosting Provider

Choosing the podcast hosting platform is crucial when bringing your podcast to the digital realm. Picture it as selecting a home for your episodes, a place that ensures they have a reliable and accessible space to reach your audience.

Let’s delve into the nine considerations in this process

1. Storage and Bandwidth: Look for a hosting provider with ample storage space to accommodate your episodes without compromising audio quality. Additionally, consider the bandwidth they provide – this determines how many listeners can access your episodes simultaneously. A hosting plan with scalable options can grow with your podcast.
2. Ease of Use: Opt for a user-friendly hosting platform. Uploading, managing, and distributing episodes should be a seamless experience. A user-friendly interface allows you to focus on creating content rather than grappling with technical intricacies.
3. Distribution to Platforms: Ensure your hosting provider facilitates easy distribution to popular podcast platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. The more accessible your podcast is, the broader your potential audience becomes.
4. Analytics and Insights: Choose a hosting service that provides detailed analytics. Insights into listener demographics, geographic locations, and episode popularity can guide your content strategy and help you better understand your audience.
5. Monetization Options: If you plan to monetize your podcast to generate revenue, consider hosting providers offering built-in monetization features or easy integration with advertising platforms. This can be crucial as your podcast grows and you get a large following.
6. Reliability and Support: Prioritize reliability. A hosting provider with minimal downtime ensures that your episodes are consistently available to your audience. Additionally, assess the level of customer support offered – prompt and helpful support can be invaluable if issues arise.
7. Cost Considerations: Understand the pricing structure of the hosting provider. Some platforms offer free plans with limitations, while others provide scalable paid plans. Evaluate your podcast’s needs and choose a plan that aligns with your budget and growth goals.
8. RSS Feed Management: A hosting provider should facilitate easy management of your podcast’s RSS feed. This feed is the lifeline that distributes your episodes to various podcast directories, making it a critical aspect of your hosting service. You must post an RSS feed link to any directories you choose.
9. Future Scalability: Anticipate the growth of your podcast. Choose a hosting provider that allows for easy scalability, ensuring that your hosting plan can accommodate the increased demands on storage and bandwidth as your audience expands.

Selecting the right hosting provider is akin to finding the perfect stage for your podcast’s performance.

It forms the foundation that supports your content and ensures a smooth experience for you and your audience.

Take the time to explore your options, weigh the features, and find the hosting provider that aligns with your podcasting aspirations.

Enhance Your Podcast with Video

Expanding your podcast into videos is a powerful way to engage with a broader audience, tapping into the synergy between your social media followers, YouTube channel, and existing podcast listeners.

This multimedia approach opens up new avenues for connection and growth.

Leveraging Social Media:

Integrate snippets or highlights from your podcast into your social media platforms. Share visually appealing clips, teasers, or behind-the-scenes moments to entice your social media followers. Create social media posts for listeners about current episodes and upcoming episodes.

This adds a visual element to your content and serves as a teaser for your podcast, attracting followers to explore the full episodes.

YouTube Channel Integration:

Consider creating video versions of your podcast episodes and uploading them to your YouTube channel. This caters to an audience that prefers visual content and can attract a fresh set of viewers who might not have discovered your podcast through traditional audio platforms.

Enhance the videos with engaging visuals or even conduct video interviews to add a dynamic dimension to your content.

Engaging Podcast Listeners:

For your existing podcast audience, supplementing your episodes with video content offers a more immersive experience. Share video interviews, panel discussions, or visual aids that complement your audio content.

This enhances the overall value for your dedicated podcast listeners, providing them with additional insights and a more diverse viewing experience.

Cross-Promotion Opportunities:

Promote your video content across all channels, creating a cohesive brand presence. Encourage your social media followers to check out your podcast episodes and vice versa. Cross-promotion fosters a relationship where each platform reinforces the other, creating a unified experience for your audience.

Visual Storytelling:

Videos allow for creative visual storytelling. Experiment with different formats – from animated explanations to vlogs or video series. The optical element adds a personal touch to your content, strengthening the connection with your audience and making your podcast more memorable.

Community Building:

Encourage interaction by incorporating visuals that prompt engagement. Pose questions, conduct polls, or share user-generated content in video format. This deepens your connection with existing followers and attracts new listeners drawn to your content’s interactive and community-driven aspects.

Incorporating videos into your podcast strategy transforms it into a multi-dimensional experience, catering to diverse preferences and expanding your reach.

Connecting your social media followers, YouTube channel, and loyal podcast listeners creates an audience that captivates, engages, and builds a robust community around your podcast.

Publish Your Podcast Episodes

Publishing your podcast is like unveiling a story to the world. Let’s navigate this process with a human touch:

1. Choose Your Hosting Platform: Select a reliable hosting platform – the home for your podcast.
2. Craft a Captivating Description: Write a compelling episode description that invites listeners in.
3. Design Eye-Catching Cover Art: Your podcast cover art is like the face of your show – make it visually appealing.
4. Set a Consistent Release Schedule: Whether weekly or monthly, consistency builds anticipation among your audience.
5. Share the Excitement on Social Media: Announce your episode on social media with engaging posts and behind-the-scenes moments.
6. Engage with Your Audience: Foster a dialogue with your listeners. Seek feedback, respond to comments, and make it a conversation.
7. Submit to Major Directories: Ensure your podcast reaches a broader audience by submitting to significant directories like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts.
8. Leverage Reviews and Ratings: Encourage your audience to leave reviews and ratings – positive feedback boosts your podcast’s visibility.
9. Update Regularly: Consistently update your podcast on directories with fresh content to keep your audience engaged.
10. Celebrate the Journey: Your podcast is not just a broadcast; it’s a living dialogue with the world. Embrace the moment, celebrate your milestones, and share your unique voice with the ever-expanding digital audience.

How to Submit Your Podcast to Directories

Submitting your podcast to directories is a pivotal step for successful podcasters. Let’s break it down into concise points:

• Apple Podcasts:
  1. Visit Apple Podcasts Connect.
  2. Create or log in to your account.
  3. Submit your podcast after meeting Apple’s requirements.
• Spotify:
  1. Use Spotify for Podcasters.
  2. Log in or create an account.
  3. Submit your podcast and consider creating a Spotify promo.
• Google Podcasts:
  1. Use Google Podcasts Manager.
  2. Log in with your Google account.
  3. Submit your podcast feed for quick updates.
• Other Directories:
  1. Submit to platforms like Stitcher, TuneIn, and Podbean.
  2. Follow individual submission processes, usually involving your podcast’s RSS feed.
• Marketing Your Presence:
  1. Encourage audience reviews and ratings for better visibility.
  2. Share direct links on social media for wider reach.
  3. Regularly update profiles with fresh content.
• Consistency Matters:
  1. Regularly update your podcast on directories.
  2. Keep a consistent release schedule for engaged listeners.

By strategically submitting your podcast to directories, optimizing your presence, and maintaining a consistent approach, you’ll enhance your discoverability and resonate with the audience you aim to reach as successful podcasters do.

Final Thoughts on Starting a Podcast with No Audience

In podcasting, the journey extends beyond pressing “publish.” Successful podcasters curate engaging content with exciting guests and create a dedicated community.

In addition to the multitude of podcasts, free tools abound, offering creators valuable resources for refining their craft and expanding their reach. T

The podcasting space thrives on collaboration; connecting with other podcasters fosters community and shared success.

As you embark on your podcasting venture, embrace diverse podcast formats, leverage tools, celebrate exciting guests, and become an active part of this evolving storytelling medium.

Happy podcasting!

Frequently Asked Questions