26 Podcasting Tips for 2026
I couldn’t think of 2026 podcasting tips…But I could think of 26! Happy New Year to you! Wishing you health, happiness, and your best version of success in your biz and life this new year and beyond! 🪩
LET’S GO!
Optimize your podcast name, author name, and podcast description. Optimize for keyword searchability and human intrigue/interest.
Optimize your episode titles and show notes. Put the juiciest stuff at the beginning of the titles and show notes for best results.
Have a pre-episode checklist…and use it!
Do your vocal warmups, like my vocal coach Nic Redman says!
In addition to having a suitable podcasting mic, know how to use it! Proper mic technique is key!
If you record on the go, get a setup like this one. It’s also great for recording content such as reels!
During your solo episodes, and even during episodes with guests, speak to your ideal listener/viewer, or lead the interview with that ideal listener/viewer in mind.
Remember the “why” behind your podcast and your biz - in the good times, and the rough times.
See other podcasts as inspiration. Your only competition is your own podcast from a month ago.
Use your smartphone as a webcam. Most smartphones have better lenses than the webcams we’ve been using. For super-nerd status, you can also use a big ‘ol DSLR camera as a webcam for the crispiest video.
Speaking of getting the highest quality while recording, for long-distance episodes, make sure you have a stable internet connection. Speed is important; stability is even more important.
And one more note in a similar vein, you don’t need to record audio solocasts on remote recording software. GarageBand or Audacity will do the trick, and better.
Optimize the lighting and background in your recording space. Simple is better.
Optimize your recording space to avoid unwanted reverb and noise.
Avoid using noisy or bulky jewelry when recording.
Do pod swaps with other podcasters. In the U.S., podcast listeners listen to an average of 7-9 podcasts per week.
Always run test recordings, especially when testing new equipment, software, settings, etc.
Connect your podcast to a blog so listeners can grab that info from your website, and also to add another discovery engine to your website.
When thinking of podcast editing, many folks overlook the mixing and mastering of audio. This is crucial to an enjoyable listening experience.
Keep a consistent release schedule…but don’t beat yourself up if you delay or miss an episode here and there.
Update the repeated elements of your podcast, such as the intro, outro, show notes text, etc., as needed.
Check but don’t obsess over your podcast analytics. What’s working and what could be improved?
Repurpose your podcast to your website, newsletter, social media, YouTube, and anywhere else it makes sense to do so!
Network with other podcasters, and if you’re feeling extra nerdy, go to a podcast conference!
Let your personality shine in your podcast. Podcasting is intimate. Podcast listeners want to get to know you, the host.
And last but not least, utilize your back catalogue! Dust off those old episodes and put them to work!
This was my stream-of-consciousness list of 26 podcasting tips for 2026 - in no particular order, as you can see - but all useful for your pod!
Cheers to a successful and fun new year…because we’re keeping podcasting fun around here at The Podcast Man!
Best wishes,
Zack
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