I usually encourage others to start podcasting. It is because of my love for this medium. I have two podcast channels, which I have been handling solely. I feel thrilled when I record new episodes. To date, I have never felt bored while preparing for my upcoming episodes. So, when I love podcasting so much, why am I giving you reasons for not starting a podcast? Well…let me tell you!

During the lockdown, I noticed a significant increase in podcast channels, and the number is still growing. I have also started to follow a couple of them because I liked their content. According to Podcast Insights, as of October 2020, there are over 34 million episodes and about 1.5 million shows.

While many have begun their podcasting journey, there a few who are toying with the idea of starting a podcast. If you are among the latter category, then this post might help you in deciding. So, if podcasting is on your mind, make sure you aren’t doing it for any of these wrong reasons.

8 reasons for not starting a podcast:

Number 1: Because everyone has one

Few of your friends have a podcast, and you think they are so cool.  Now you also want to join the cool tribe. You will be making a big mistake if that’s the motivation. Podcasting is not like opening an account on social media where you come and go, post pictures, and get likes and comments. Podcasting is way more than that. If you don’t have a plan and strategy in place before you begin, then, frankly speaking, you need to wait to start a podcast. Or at least to figure out what you want to talk about first.

Number 2: Because you think it's attractive but not sure about the groundwork

What is podcasting? Reading a script or having an impromptu discussion on a topic. How simple is that? You might feel it is that way because that’s what you listen to when you tune in to any podcast show. The host is talking at ease, enjoying the conversation or exchanging ideas with the listeners, and sharing a few jokes or personal incidences. If it is an interview, then enjoying the discussion with maybe a cup of coffee. But let me tell you, whether it be a 5 minutes trailer, or a 15 minutes episode or a 40 minutes long interview, the hard work that goes behind it is equal. Let’s see the parts any podcaster needs to keep in mind:

• Topic
• Title
• Duration
• Research and writing the script
• Interview: Finding the right people and reaching out to them which is another challenge
• Setting up the equipment
• Sound editing
• Uploading it on the host and making it available on the directory
• Promoting it on different platforms
• Keeping an eye on which topics are trending, which timing or days are the popular days
• Getting ready for the next episode

These points are not very tough, but they need time and, more importantly, dedication and consistency. Once your podcast is live, then it starts rolling. You cannot pause.

Number 3: If you think you will start earning immediately

Quite often, I come across this question – “do you make money out of podcasting?” I agree financial satisfaction is essential, and it is one of the motivating factors behind many things, but it should not be the sole reason. Building a rapport, getting a strong listener base, and comfort and confidence is very important. Podcasting will not start generating money all of a sudden. It takes time. Podcasting is all about good content, connection with your listeners through your voice, and consistency.

Number 4: Because you think there is no rocket science in it

Podcasting may look super easy as it is mainly talking. If it is that easy, why do we get picky when deciding to subscribe to some podcast over others? The truth is podcasting demands you to learn and hone many skills. If you are interviewing someone, you need good interviewing skills and before that, good inter-personal skills. And along with that good listening skills.

Number 5: If you think it is less time-consuming

If you feel that running a podcast channel will not demand time commitments, think about it. If you are serious about it, then be prepared for some level of time commitment. Your job doesn’t end with publishing the episode. You immediately have to start thinking about your next topic. That’s where consistency comes into the picture. It will help if you are disciplined to run the show on an ongoing basis.

Number 6: If social media scares you

Social media gets overwhelming sometimes, but the truth is it is the first place to promote your podcast. If you are among those who don’t want to get on any social media, it could be a problem because it is one of the best modes of marketing your podcast.

Number 7: If you don’t like listening to podcasts

Ideally, this should be point number 1 but if you’re here, I’m hoping this does not apply to you. Those who listen to podcasts see their worth will think of starting one. But if you are among those who had never listened to podcasts, you may have to consider your options beforehand. By listening to other podcasters, you also educate yourself on various topics and get inspiration from their presentation style.

Coming to the most important part,

Number 8: If you don’t have original ideas, and you think you will still manage

Do you think it will work, or let’s put it this way, do you think it will last long enough? Originality always attracts people. I came across a few podcasters that made me feel that it’s not their actual voice or talking way. They are making it up for the podcast. And I don’t want to listen to them. Being natural is the key to podcasting. Depending upon the subject and the content, you have to give additional touches that should be covered in voice modulations or tone variation. It is very easy to get influenced by others. But being unique is a quality that will differentiate you from other podcasters.

Podcasting is a very fulfilling experience. It is picking up very fast, and because of its benefits and convenience, no wonder it is getting popular with each passing day. But it comes with its rule book. I hope I have given you enough reasons to do our homework. And if you are ready to dive-in, I will see you soon! Happy podcasting.