Catt’s out of the bag: King Charles is launching a podcast. And so is your neighbour, second cousin, and practically everyone else. Podcasts have become the go-to platform for storytelling, education, and entertainment. But why the sudden boom?

Podcast

Well, audio is easy to consume. The idea of getting insights from someone you admire or having a successful businesswoman guide you through your venture in a quick 30-minute session is appealing. But is it really that easy?

Keeping people engaged for 30-45 minutes or driving in-person event attendance from a weekly online show is a challenge.

I started a tech podcast in university, and while adulting forced me to stop, it remains one of the best ways I learned to build an audience. Here’s what I learned:

1. Get the Audio Right

Poor-quality audio is not consumable; no one will listen to it. Recording in a quiet, soundproof space is key. If you’re recording solo, opt for a smaller room to minimise echo and background noise. If recording with a guest, invest in an omnidirectional microphone that captures sound evenly. No matter your setup, prioritise crisp, clear audio.

2. Create for Your Audience, Not Just Yourself

It’s easy to assume you know what your audience wants, but do you? Think of yourself as a curator, not just a creator. The best podcasters actively engage with their listeners, adapting content based on feedback. The creators who co-create with their audience produce the best content because it’s relatable.

3. Build a Niche Community

This is marketing 101: People like us do things like this. Every significant movement starts with a shared belief. Find the common interest that will drive your audience’s loyalty and make them return episode after episode.

As Seth Godin puts it in This Is Marketing: “If you want to make change, begin by making culture. Begin by organizing a tightly knit group. Begin by getting people in sync.”

Best Podcasting Gear (Audio Edition)

Podcasting is an incredible tool for storytelling, education, and connection, it’s the best way to spread meaningful conversations and connect with the right audience.

Over and above the audio and gear, prioritise the people that you’re creating for. What do they want to hear? This is key to standing out in a sea of new shows. Remember your favourite podcast, they don’t just talk at their listeners; they talk with them.