Podcasting for Indie Podcasters: Podcasting Tips for How to Start and Run a Podcast

In this episode, we break it down the eight essential tips for preparing your podcast guest to be interviewed.

First, we stress the importance of headphones (you’d be surprised at how many people skip this). Next up, we talk about the mic situation; because nobody wants to hear your guest’s laptop struggle to pick up their golden nuggets of wisdom. We also explore giving your podcast guest an outline of topics or questions. This helps them prepare and alleviates any pre-interview jitters.

Plus, we dive into how to promote their offerings during the episode. The real clinch of this episode, though, is bringing it back to the very real point that it's no-one's responsibility to promote your podcast episodes other than you.

Read the Blog Post >> How to Prepare to Host a Podcast Interview to Get the Best Out of Your Podcast Guests

Takeaways:

• Always ask your podcast guest to wear headphones for better audio quality, trust me, it makes a difference!
• Using a separate microphone instead of a laptop mic is a game-changer for sound quality, even a cheap one works wonders!
• Make sure to explain where your guest should record to avoid noisy disasters - quiet, comfy spaces are key!
• Share an outline of questions or topics with your guest ahead of time, it's courteous and helps them prepare!
• Encourage your guest to promote any offers or freebies during the episode, it’s only fair since they’re giving their time!
• Don’t forget to clarify who your audience is because assumptions can lead to awkward interview moments and miscommunication!

Episodes Mentioned in This Episode:

• Ep 121: Everything You Need to Know About Hosting a Podcast Interview
• Ep 96: Do You HAVE to Wear Headphones When Recording Your Podcast Episodes? with Ash from Shure

📧 Subscribe to the Newsletter >> https://veritysangan.com/newsletter

🔗 Read the Blog >> https://veritysangan.com

Don't forget to subscribe to the show!

Interviewing podcast guests can feel like a rite of passage on any podcast; after all, don't you need to interview guests for your show?

In this episode, we start with that very question: Do you even need a guest on your podcast episode, or are they overshadowing you from showing off your expertise?

If you do decide to host interviews on your show, we go through the 3 key stages of an interview: introducing your guests, how to find the right podcast guest for your show and how to vet potential guests before you commit to interviewing them. If you've ever considered how to host a podcast interview, or you want to improve your podcast interviewing skills, this episode is for you.

Read the Blog Post >> How to Prepare to Host a Podcast Interview to Get the Best Out of Your Podcast Guests - https://veritysangan.com/how-to-prepare-to-host-a-podcast-interview-to-get-the-best-out-of-your-podcast-guests/

Takeaways:

• The podcast highlights the fact that consistent weekly uploads aren't the only path to success.
• SEO strategies can significantly boost your podcast's discoverability and overall growth metrics.
• Preparing for an interview is just as crucial as the interview itself; don't skip the prep!
• Choosing the right guest is vital; interviewing someone who's not a good fit can be a total flop.
• Structure your podcast episodes effectively: intro, Q&A, and a neat wrap-up to keep things flowing.
• Always thank your guests at the end; they've given you their valuable time, so show some love!

Episodes Mentioned in This Episode:

• Episode 18: Why You Need a Podcast Release Form - listen to the episode and read the blog post >> https://veritysangan.com/why-you-need-a-podcast-guest-release-form-and-how-to-write-one/

Other Links Mentioned in This Episode:

• The Life Shift Podcast >> https://www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com/
• We Need to Talk Podcast >> https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/we-need-to-talk-with-paul-c-brunson/id1765126946



📧 Subscribe to the Newsletter >> https://veritysangan.com/newsletter

🔗 Read the Blog >> https://veritysangan.com

Don't forget to subscribe to the show!

If you’ve had a podcast for any amount of time, you’ve probably wondered to yourself if you’re doing things ‘right,’ or how you can reach more people to boost your audience.

In this case, a podcast audit is probably one of the best activities you can do for your podcast.

Why?

Because auditing your podcast helps you see where your show currently is and helps you to map out where you can make improvements for your show.

In this episode, we’ll explore the benefits of auditing your podcast, as well as some tips and tricks for doing so effectively.

We will cover:

1. What is a Podcast Audit?
2. Why Run a Podcast Audit?
3. Identifying Areas for Improvement
4. Improving Listener Engagement
5. Maintaining Your Own Standards
6. Staying Organised and On Track
7. How Often Should You Audit Your Podcast?
8. 7 Tasks for How to Audit Your Own Podcast

If you've only just started your podcast and are only a few months or episodes in, or if you've been podcasting for ages, there are plenty of podcasting tips for how to improve your show in a variety of ways.

Takeaways:

1. A podcast audit helps you see where your show currently stands and where to improve.
2. Regularly reviewing your podcast can help you recognise both strengths and weaknesses effectively.
3. Gathering feedback from listeners is crucial for understanding how to grow your audience.
4. Improving your podcast SEO is essential to getting more listeners and boosting your visibility.

Read the Blog Post: How to Do a Podcast Audit in 7 Easy-to-Follow Tasks >> https://veritysangan.com/is-your-podcast-performing-at-its-best-how-to-audit-your-podcast/

Podcast outros - those things at the end of your episodes that statistically half of your listeners will skip or ignore.

So if so many people are ignoring your outros, is there any point in including them?

In this episode, we discuss why having a podcast outro is still important for your podcast episodes and what to include in your own outro.

We will also answer the following questions:

• How Long Should Your Podcast Outro Be?
• Should I Use the Same Podcast Outro Everytime?
• Should I Include Music In My Podcast Outro?

Whether you're just starting a podcast or have been in podcasting for sometime, there is something for you within this episode to help you create the best outro for your show.

Read the Blog Post >> How to Write Your Podcast Outro (+ 3 Free Templates)

Takeaways:

• Podcast outros are an important part of your show, even if many listeners tune out before they hear them.
• Keeping your outro concise is key; aim for a maximum of two minutes to avoid turning it into a snooze-fest.
• Sprinkling your call to action throughout the episode can boost listener engagement and remind them what to do at the end.
• Thanking your listeners at the end of each episode creates a connection and shows appreciation for their time.

Episodes Mentioned in This Episode:

• Ep 5: How to Create Your Podcast Intro

Other Links Mentioned in This Episode:

• Blog Post: How to Create a Podcast Intro
• Pond5: Get music for your podcast



📧 Subscribe to the Newsletter >> https://veritysangan.com/newsletter

🔗 Read the Blog >> https://veritysangan.com

Don't forget to subscribe to the show!

Today, we're diving deep into the emotional rollercoaster and worried that people have when they start and launch their podcast.

The big questions we will cover are:

• What if my show is rubbish?
• What if people laugh at me?
• What if no one listens?

The number one way of growing your podcast and getting new listeners is still through word-of-mouth recommendations, and so being able to talk about your show and share it with others is so important.

So grab your blanket (I’m cosied up on my sofa as we speak), and let’s chat about how to shake off those fears and get your voice heard.

Read the Blog Post: 9 Essential Things to Do Before Starting a Podcast in 2026

Episode Mentioned in this Episode: Ep 109: Why Unique Listeners Are More Important Than You Think

Takeaways:

• Starting a podcast can feel scary, especially if you worry about it being rubbish, but remember that everyone starts somewhere and your early episodes are just part of the journey.
• If you’re nervous about what people will think when you launch your podcast, don’t fret too much. Most people are more impressed than critical, and if anyone laughs, they might just be jealous! (I said what I said.)
• The best way to get the word out about your podcast is still by word of mouth.
• Having a small number of engaged listeners is way more valuable than a huge audience that tunes out after 10 seconds; focus on creating content that resonates with even a few people.
• Don't stress about starting your podcast only to hear crickets; someone out there will listen.
• Podcasting is a craft that takes time to develop, so enjoy the process, build your skills, and give yourself the grace to grow along the way.

Ready to start a podcast in 2026? Well, buckle up, because we’re tackling the next lot of the top ten burning questions about starting your own show.

In this episode, we will answer the following questions:

1. How Do You Pick a Podcast Niche?
2. Should You Script Your Podcast or Wing It?
3. How Do You Get Listeners for a Podcast?
4. What’s the Best podcast Hosting Platform?
5. Do You Need a Launch Strategy for Starting a Podcast in 2026?

We kick this episode off with the all-important question of how to pick a niche. I’ll share some tips on how to find a topic you’re passionate about without overthinking it; because who needs that kind of stress before hitting record?

We also chat about whether you should script your episodes or just wing.

Plus, I spill the beans on the best ways to snag listeners, the ins and outs of hosting platforms, and if you really need a launch strategy.

Read the Blog Post: Your 10 Questions About Starting a Podcast in 2026 Answered (No Fluff, Just Honest Answers)

Episodes Mentioned:

Ep 104: Why SEO is So Important in Podcasting | How to Implement Your Own SEO Strategy

Ep 116: Top 10 Questions About Starting a Podcast in 2026 (Part 1) — Questions 1-5

Takeaways:

1. When starting your podcast, don't stress too much over your niche; just pick something you enjoy!
2. Scripting your podcast can bring clarity, but winging it adds that spontaneous spark we all love.
3. To get listeners, optimize your episode titles and don't hesitate to ask folks to share!
4. Choosing a hosting platform is crucial; consider your needs before diving in headfirst into the options.
5. A launch strategy is helpful, but don't let it paralyze you; sometimes messy beginnings are the best!
6. Remember, most people discover new podcasts through recommendations, so spread the word, friends!

Tools Mentioned:

1. Captivate >> https://veritysangan.com/captivate
2. Riverside >> https://veritysangan.com/riverside

Welcome to 2026! In this episode, we're kicking the year off by diving into the nitty-gritty of launching your podcast in 2026 with the first five burning questions that’ll set you on the right path.

We're all about keeping it real, so I’ll share how I podcast on the cheap without sacrificing quality. Plus, we’ll chat about how long your episodes should be, whether you need video (hint: you totally don’t), and how often to hit that record button without turning your creative vibes into a stress fest.

In this episode, we will answer the following questions:

1. Do you Need Expensive Equipment to Start a Podcast?
2. How Long Should Podcast Episodes Be in 2026?
3. Do You Need Video for Your Podcast?
4. How Often Should You Release Podcast Episodes?
5. Do You Need Social Media to Grow a Podcast?

Read the Blog Post: Your 10 Questions About Starting a Podcast in 2026 Answered (No Fluff, Just Honest Answers)

Episodes Mentioned:

Ep 12: What’s The Perfect Length For Your Podcast Season?

Ep 63: Why I Quit Promoting My Podcast on TikTok

Ep 103: How I Dropped My Podcasting Costs By 65% - How to Run Your Podcast for Less

Ep 112: 7 Tips to Get Out of a Podcasting Creative Slump

Ep 114: 7 Signs You're Taking Your Podcast Way Too Seriously (And How to Fix It)

Takeaways:

1. You definitely don't need to break the bank on fancy gear to start podcasting; a decent USB mic and headphones will do!
2. Finding the perfect podcast episode length is all about what works for you and your audience; there's no one-size-fits-all answer.
3. Video isn't a must for podcasts; if you want to keep it audio-only, embrace that freedom and do what feels right!
4. Consistency in posting is key, but it should fit your life—don't force yourself into a schedule that stresses you out.
5. Social media can be helpful but it's not mandatory; focus on platforms you enjoy instead of spreading yourself too thin.
6. SEO is your best friend for growing your podcast; invest time in optimizing your content to attract more listeners.

The podcast has officially rebranded and been renamed to 'Podcasting for Indie Podcasters!'

In this episode, I'll discuss exactly why I decided to ditch the old name of The Lazy Girl's Guide to Podcasting and embrace something that's more inclusive and SEO-friendly: Podcasting for Indie Podcasters.

When you start a podcast, one of the last things on your mind is rebranding. But as your show grows, evolves, and you as a podcaster develop, you start to think about how your current branding might actually be hindering how you can grow your podcast and reach a wider audience. And that's exactly where I was: hosting a podcast that I love, but unsure if the name was the right fit anymore.

We dive deep into why I was feeling that the old name was right for the show anymore, including connotations with the word 'lazy,' VAWg micro-aggressions, and how the show seems to have evolved out of that name. Keeping the old name was also making me concerned that I was eliminating people from listening to the show and was stunting my podcast's growth by not being inclusive. I also discuss the new branding in terms of cover art and colours.

Finally, we move onto discussing the revamp of the blog that goes with the podcast and I'll tell you all about what to expect from the podcast in 2026.

Checklist for Rebranding Your Podcast:

1. Why are you rebranding?
2. Renaming your show - research, search intent
3. Colours/images
4. Updating your show's name everywhere (doesn't have to be done in one go)
5. Sharing this change with your audience (email, social media, etc)

Takeaways:

1. Rebranding is a big deal, and it’s okay to rethink your podcast's identity as your audience grows and changes.
2. Choose a podcast title that reflects your content and appeals to your target audience, ensuring it's searchable and relevant.
3. Don't rush your rebranding process; take your time to ensure every detail feels just right before making it official.
4. Make sure your rebranded podcast maintains cohesion across all platforms, from social media to your website, for a consistent listener experience.
5. Engage with your audience about your rebrand; their feedback can help shape your podcast's future and build a community.
6. Rebranding isn't just about looks; it's about capturing the essence of what your podcast is truly about and who it serves.

Read the Blog Post: Podcasting for Indie Podcasters: Why I Rebranded My Podcast and 7 Tips to Rebrand Your Own Podcast >> https://veritysangan.com/podcasting-for-indie-podcasters-why-i-rebranded-my-podcast-and-7-tips-to-rebrand-your-own-podcast/

Links Mentioned:

1. Read the Blog >> https://veritysangan.com
2. Join the Newsletter >> https://colossal-author-9930.kit.com/e5b21909fe

Podcasting is a wild and amazing journey. One minute you’re excitedly recording your latest episode, and the next you’re drowning in editing and second-guessing every little detail. In this episode, we dive into the seven telltale signs that you might just be taking your podcasting journey a smidge too seriously...because taking your podcast too seriously is possible.

We chat about how obsessing over minor editing mistakes can suck the joy out of your creative process. I mean, have you ever listened to a popular podcast that sounded like it was recorded underwater? Probably Yet, they still have tens of thousands of listeners. This just goes to show that your audience is more interested in the content that you can give them rather than a perfectly polished audio track. So, are you finding yourself giving up fun for perfection? If you’re stressing over a missed breath sound or an awkward pause, it might be time to reevaluate your approach.

In the episode, we also tackle the pressure of posting schedules. Yes, consistency is key, but if that pressure is making you want to pull your hair out, it’s time to hit the brakes. Remember, podcasting should be a joy, not a chore. And comparing yourself to full-time creators with fancy studios? Let’s just say it’s a recipe for burnout. We’re all just trying to make magic happen from our dining tables, right? Plus, we discuss the dangers of over-planning. If you find yourself exhausted before even hitting record, that’s a sign you might be overthinking it. Let’s embrace spontaneity and authenticity instead.

Whether you’re podcasting as a hobby or a business strategy, it’s crucial to keep the fun alive. So, if you’ve ever wondered, ‘should I quit my podcast?’, or are wondering how to re-inject the fun back into your podcast, this episode is for you.

Takeaways:

1. Taking your podcast too seriously can drain the joy out of creating, so keep it light and enjoy the creative process.
2. If you find yourself obsessing over every tiny editing mistake, it’s time to relax a bit. No-one is going to mind about the odd breath or 0.2 second pause.
3. Remember, podcasting can be a fun hobby, not just a business strategy or stress-inducing chore.
4. Comparing yourself to full-time creators may lead to burnout, so embrace your unique journey and what your individuality can bring to your show.
5. Over-planning your episodes can kill spontaneity. Keep it real and authentic for you and your audience.
6. If recording feels like a chore, it might be time to reevaluate why you started podcasting in the first place and fall in love with the podcasting process all over again.

Read the Blog Post: 7 Signs You’re Taking Your Podcast Too Seriously (and How To Fix It)

Podcast Episodes Mentioned:

Ep 43: Should I Quit My Podcast?

Ep 100: Why It's Okay to Take a Break from Podcasting

Ep 112: 7 Tips to Get Out of a Podcasting Creative Slump

Ever felt the pressure to turn your podcasting passion into a money-making machine? In this episode, we’re diving into why you don’t actually have to monetize your podcast if you don’t want to! In this episode, we explore five solid reasons to keep your podcast a fun hobby instead of a pressure cooker of dollar signs.

From the exhausting hustle of monetization culture to the pure joy of podcasting just for the love of it, we’re giving you the green light to focus on what really matters: your creativity and connection with your audience. So whether you're just starting out or already knee-deep in the podcasting world, we'll remind you that the joy of sharing your voice should come first.

And hey, if you still want to know how to monetize your podcast later, no worries! We’ve got a whole playlist in the show notes to help you with that too.

Takeaways:

• Monetization culture can zap the fun out of your podcasting hobby, leaving you stressed.
• It's totally okay to podcast just for joy; you don't need to make money from it.
• Your podcast should be a creative outlet for you, not just another job to stress over.
• Remember, you have full permission to enjoy podcasting without the pressure to monetize.

Read the Blog Post: Podcasts Are Now Available on YouTube Music - What This Means for Podcasters

Episodes Mentioned In the Show:

• Monetise Your Podcast - Full Playlist >>https://player.captivate.fm/collection/d3f05aaa-5298-483c-b542-bf9e37b02829/