Should You Start a Podcast… or Just Like the Idea of One?

5 Questions to Ask Yourself Before You Press Record

Podcasting has opened the door for so many people to share their ideas, tell their stories, and build platforms around the things they care about. Over the years, I’ve worked with everyone from first-time podcasters to seasoned professionals, entertainers, and community leaders who wanted to create a show of their own. They all figured out, it wasn't as easy as it looks!

Starting a podcast can be exciting, but before you jump behind the microphone, it’s worth taking a moment to ask yourself a few important questions. A little reflection on the front end can make the entire journey more meaningful and save you lots of time and money.

Here are five questions I often encourage people to think about before starting a podcast.

1. Why do you want to start a podcast?

This may sound simple, but it’s one of the most important questions.

Are you starting a podcast to build your brand? Share knowledge? Help people? Promote your business? Or simply just want to entertain folks?

Your reason for starting one will shape everything about your show, from the topics you cover to the audience you attract. When your purpose is clear, your podcast naturally becomes more focused and impactful.

2. Who is the podcast for?

One of the biggest mistakes new podcasters make is trying to speak to everyone. I always tell clients, although you want everyone to listen to your podcast, you can't be everything to everybody. The reality is that the most engaging podcasts are usually speaking to a very specific audience.

Think about the people who would benefit most from what you have to say. What are their interests? What questions might they have? What conversations are they looking for? Listeners want to know whats in it for them.

When you understand your audience, it becomes much easier to create content that resonates.

3. What would make your podcast stand out?

There are thousands of podcasts out there covering almost every topic imaginable. That doesn’t mean there isn’t room for yours, it just means your voice needs to bring something authentic to the table. Something people can relate to in a real way.

Your personal experiences, your point of view, and the way you connect with people are what make your podcast different from anyone else’s. The most memorable podcasts are the ones your audience can laugh, engage and relate to.

4. Are you ready to stay consistent?

Podcasting isn’t just about recording one or two episodes. The shows that grow are the ones that are nurtured by commitment.

Consistency builds trust with your audience. Whether you release episodes weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly, having a schedule helps listeners know when to expect new content.

A podcast becomes stronger over time when the host treats it like a real production and commitment rather than a short experiment.

5. Are you willing to go the extra mile?

Podcasting involves more than just talking into a microphone. There’s planning, production, editing, promotion, and distribution. It can feel like a lot in the beginning, but the good news is that it becomes easier once you understand the workflow.

Taking the time to learn the process and creating a system that fits your schedule or working with people who understand it (like me, 😉) can make the experience much smoother and more enjoyable.

Final Thoughts

Podcasting is a production much like radio and TV. It can be a powerful platform when it’s approached with intention. It gives people the opportunity to share ideas, create meaningful conversations, and connect with audiences in a very personal way.

If you can answer these questions honestly, you’ll already be ahead of the game. From there, the next step is simply pressing record and beginning the journey.

— Felicia “The Poetess” Morris