The Path to Pod: Taking a Podcast from Idea to Launch in 4 Phases

Sometimes you just need a plan

I hear from aspiring podcasters all the time that one of the biggest things holding them back from starting a podcast is not having a clear, straightforward path to take their show from idea to reality. It’s not for lack of trying, these are people who have done their research! The problem is, most of the “How to start a podcast” information out there is either overcomplicated (which just adds confusion and overwhelm, or oversimplified (like the “Just make it on your phone!” mentality that leaves you totally unprepared).

Here's the thing: I’ve developed, produced and launched podcasts with one of the most famous movie studios in the world, with a couple of buddies in their living room, and everything in between. You’d think they’d all be totally different experiences, but they’re not! Reader, I’m going to let you in on a little secret I’ve discovered through all my years of work in podcasting: the process of successfully taking a podcast from idea to launch is essentially the same no matter the budget, genre, format, or quantity of bells and/and whistles the show has!

I’ve taken that tried-and-true process and created a framework for podcast creation through 4 distinct phases. The Four Phases of Podcast Creation is the strategy I teach all my clients, and use religiously for my own podcasts.

Each of these phases takes its own share of hard (though hopefully fun) work – but if you use the process I’ve created, you’ll have an accurate, realistic, and empowering path to launching YOUR podcast into the world, and be able to invest your time, energy and money wisely. Let’s take a closer look:

Phase 1: Development

DO. NOT. RUSH. THIS. I fully believe that this is the most important phase because everything else in the process builds on the foundation you create here by investing time and energy in developing a compelling, clear, repeatable show. In this phase you need to define the 3 major components of a podcast for your show: Storytelling (topics, POV, tone), Structure (format, segments, length) and Sound (clips, music, vocal work). this is the time to get specific and organized. Download my free guide “Avoiding the Top 5 Podcasting Pitfalls” that digs deep into why these are crucial and what happens when you skip it!!

Phase 2: Production

Now that you know what you’re making – it’s time to make it! Start by producing the Pilot. A Pilot has two major functions: The first is giving you the chance to put that Storytelling, Structure and Sound into action and see what works and what doesn’t and make any changes before you go into full production. The second function is to learn what it takes to make the show, in terms of time, technology and your team. Of course things can change along the way, but TRUST me, you don’t want to wing it with a full season!

Phase 3: Assets & Prep

You’re rolling now, and it’s time to prepare for your podcast’s debut! The next step is to create the visual, audio and written assets you need in order to be ready to launch. I mean “need” literally: hosting and distribution platforms have technical requirements you have to meet in order for your show to be published and listed. Assets include the logo or show art, show description, and an audio teaser or trailer. Many of these assets are the things your potential listeners will encounter before they decide to listen and will become the foundation of your marketing strategy. Make sure they are alluring and aligned with your show’s message, tone and subject that you spent so much time honing!

Phase 4: Launch!

In the words of Rafiki, “It Is Time.” You’ve developed a compelling show on a topic you’re passionate about with a repeatable format that leverages the magic of audio; you’ve produced several episodes, so by now you’re an audio master, and you’ve got the info and assets you need to birth this baby. Now comes the publishing process: choose a hosting company, create your accounts using the assets you just made, and choose which apps and platforms to submit your show to. It will take a few days to get set up, but then you are ready to announce it to the world! Promote it! Post it! E-blast it! Tell your mom!

Secret Phase 5: Celebrate

You did it. You made a thing. No matter how many episodes or downloads, what anybody says or thinks, you will have MADE a THING. How many people do you know who SAY they’re going to make a thing but never do? You followed through from beginning to end, and THAT, my friend, is something to be infinitely proud of.

Now that you’ve got my 4 Phases framework for taking a podcast from Idea to Launch…what are you waiting for??? Put “Make a Podcast” (or “Restart my Podcast” or “Refresh my Podcast”) at the top of your List of 2023 Goals! In the coming weeks I’ll be announcing a new program I’m starting in January to help you make that goal a reality. Stay tuned…

In the meantime, connect with me here, on Instagram, and don’t forget to download “Avoiding the Top 5 Podcasting Pitfalls.”!