The Biggest Podcasting Mistakes (and What to Do Instead!)
Here's what you can expect from this episode:
Are You Making These Podcasting Mistakes? Let’s Figure It Out Together…
Ever feel like you’re doing all the right things with your podcast… but something still isn’t clicking? You’re showing up, hitting record, posting consistently, yet your downloads are stalling, your growth feels stuck, and you’re left wondering, “What am I missing?”
Spoiler: it’s probably not your mic or your hustle.
In this episode of Podcasting Problem Solver™, I’m diving into the most common podcasting mistakes that stall growth and exactly how to fix them. Whether you’re gearing up to launch, deep in production, or feeling stuck with a show that’s lost momentum, you’ll learn why clarity beats cleverness when naming your podcast, how a simple outline can upgrade your episodes, and why keyword-rich titles are a must for discoverability. I’ll also discuss how to narrow your focus to grow faster, craft effective CTAs that convert, build sustainable workflows, and incorporate your business message without sounding salesy, as well as share some real client wins and easy fixes you can implement right away.
This episode is your new go-to guide for cutting through the noise and podcasting with purpose. Because let’s be real, there’s a lot of advice out there… but not all of it actually works for a business owner like you.
Here’s what’s covered
- [00:02:00] Why clarity beats cleverness in naming your podcast
Your title should help listeners and search engines understand your show—save the clever for episodes. - [00:03:10] Why winging it is a momentum killer
Outlining your episodes helps build trust and keeps you on message, especially for lead generation. - [00:04:05] Why keyword-rich episode titles are critical
Get found by writing titles like headlines—clear, specific, and packed with SEO. - [00:05:00] Why talking to everyone means resonating with no one
Niche down your listener profile to attract more of the right people and build stronger connections. - [00:06:10] The power of strategic calls-to-action
Don’t leave listeners guessing—guide them to the next best step with intentional CTAs. - [00:07:05] Smart workflows for batching and systems
Build repeatable, low-stress processes to stay ahead of your content and avoid burnout. - [00:08:10] How to use your podcast to reinforce your core message
Your show should reflect your business values, expertise, and the problems you solve for clients. - [00:09:05] A real client story that shows the power of strategic shifts
See what happened when one host narrowed her focus—and turned her podcast into a growth engine.
So, before you hit record again, press play on this one. And while you’re at it, come tell me: What podcasting “rule” just hasn’t worked for you? Or what’s tripping you up right now? I’m all ears, and your question might inspire a future episode.
Want more strategic tips, honest insights, and behind-the-scenes support? Snag my free newsletter.
Let’s make podcasting feel simple, smart, and SEAMless.
Resources Mentioned:
Related Blog: 9 Ways to Have a Successful Podcast
Podcasting Do’s and Don’ts That No One Talks About
A Strategic Episode for New and Growing Podcasters
Leah Bryant [00:00:04]:
Welcome back to Podcasting Problem Solver. I’m Leah Bryant, podcast producer, launch strategist, and founder of Leah Bryant Co, where we help entrepreneurs launch and grow podcasts that support real business goals—without burnout or tech overwhelm.
If you’ve ever thought:
- “I’ve got a podcast, but something feels off,” or
- “I’m still planning, and I want to do it right,”
Then this episode is for you. Today, I’m pulling back the curtain on the biggest podcasting mistakes (and what to do instead).
Podcast Strategy Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t Pick a Podcast Name with No Search Value
Leah Bryant [00:00:54]:
Let’s start with naming your podcast.
A clever title might feel fun, but if it has zero search value, it’s not helping you get found.
Clarity is greater than creativity.
Choose a name that tells your audience exactly what the show is about. Save the clever for your episode titles.
Don’t Record Without a Plan
Leah Bryant [00:01:49]:
Winging it sounds easy. But it creates a rambling mess that loses listeners fast.
Structure builds trust.
Always outline your episodes—even if you don’t script them word for word. A clear outline keeps your message on track, especially if your podcast is tied to your business or sales strategy.
Don’t Ignore SEO and Podcast Episode Titles
Leah Bryant [00:02:28]:
Vague or mysterious titles might sound cute, but they’re bad for discoverability.
Instead:
- Use clear, keyword-rich episode titles
- Think like a headline: “How to grow a podcast without paid ads” works better than “The thing that finally worked”
Don’t Try to Speak to Everyone
Leah Bryant [00:03:16]:
A podcast for “all entrepreneurs” usually resonates with none of them. I made this mistake myself in the early days.
The more specific your message, the more powerful your podcast becomes.
Speak directly to your ideal listener’s stage, struggle, and goals. That’s how you activate the Attraction phase of my SEAMless Framework.
Don’t Skip the Call to Action
Leah Bryant [00:03:49]:
If your episode ends with a simple “Thanks for listening,” you’re missing an opportunity.
Instead, guide your listener to take the next step:
- Download a resource
- Join your email list
- Submit a question
Like this one: “Want your question featured on the show? The link is in the description.”
Podcast Habits That Build Long-Term Momentum
Do Batch Record Your Episodes
Leah Bryant [00:04:23]:
Batch recording helps you avoid the constant scramble of keeping up with your content calendar. You’ll show up with more clarity and energy.
Do Create a Repeatable Workflow
Leah Bryant [00:04:23 continued]:
Whether you’re a solo podcaster or working with a team, use a checklist for every episode:
- Record
- Edit
- Upload
- Write show notes
- Schedule promos
At LBC, we manage all of this in ClickUp—because systems beat stress every time.
Do Reinforce Your Sales Message in Each Episode
Leah Bryant [00:05:13]:
Your podcast isn’t just content—it’s strategic brand storytelling.
Use each episode to:
- Share your philosophy
- Introduce your framework
- Highlight the problems you solve
Podcasting done right builds trust and converts quietly over time.
Do Keep Listeners Coming Back
Leah Bryant [00:05:13 continued]:
Give your listeners a reason to return:
- Tease upcoming episodes
- Reference past episodes
- Create narrative threads and shared language
These small touches build connection and community.
Do Stay Consistent, Even If It’s Not Weekly
Leah Bryant [00:05:13 continued]:
You don’t need to publish every Tuesday for eternity. But consistency in quality and intention is what keeps your audience engaged.
Client Case Study: Messaging Overhaul = Real Results
Leah Bryant [00:05:50]:
One of my clients had a beautiful show—great interviews, high-quality audio, strong topics—but her downloads plateaued.
After a podcast audit, we discovered the issue:
- Her messaging was too broad
- Her positioning focused on guests, not her expertise
We rebuilt her show around her unique framework, clarified her message, and positioned her as the expert.
The result? More clients, higher listener retention, and a podcast-powered funnel.
Build a Podcast That Lasts
Strategy Beats Spontaneity Every Time
Leah Bryant [00:06:35]:
Podcasting isn’t just about pressing record. It’s about:
- Being strategic
- Showing up intentionally
- Building something that supports your business long term
Ready to Launch With Support?
Leah Bryant [00:06:35 continued]:
Want step-by-step guidance?
Check the show notes for my Podcast Launch Roadmap + private podcast—it’s like having me in your pocket.
And for weekly behind-the-scenes strategies and gear recs, make sure you’re on my newsletter. It’s free and built for action-takers like you.
Final Thoughts
Leah Bryant [00:07:20]:
Until next time, keep it strategic, keep it simple, and above all—keep it seamless.
We’ll catch you on the next episode.
Hi, I’m Leah
Your go-to guide for making podcasting way less complicated and host of Podcasting Problem Solver™
More about Podcasting Problem Solver TM
