Do you want to know the secrets to create a successful podcast? You’re not the only one.

As of today, 2 million active podcasts and 48 million episodes have been recorded. And this number keeps increasing.

The massive rise in podcast popularity isn’t really surprising since podcasts appeal to peoples’ interest and the evergreen appeal of storytelling. A podcast is an excellent marketing tool that can grow your brand’s audience and credibility if you use it the right way.

But to create a successful podcast, you have to deliver content your listeners want to hear and entice them with your unique voice and story. You genuinely need to understand what makes your audience tick, among other things.

So in this post, I’ll share 5 secrets to a successful podcast to help you build a loyal audience and get ahead of other podcasters.

1. Invest in the Right Equipment

Investing in the right equipment for your podcast may sound obvious, but so many beginners believe they can just use their smartphones to record and still create a successful pod.

If people are going to invest time in listening to your content, they need to be able to hear it clearly, without interference. So you need to invest in good microphones and headphones for both you and your guests.

In addition, using audio editing software that lets you record and make edits to your audio is vital to create a professional-sounding show. Simply hoping for the best is not going to cut it.

Also, consider hosting your show at a podcast host, such as Libsyn, Omni, Blubrry, or Whooshkaa. If only using YouTube you’ll lose out on valuable links to podcast directories that can help you attract more followers.

2. Use an Intimate Voice and Be Authentic

Podcasters who use an intimate voice and are authentic are running the most successful podcasts. No one wants to listen to an impersonal robotic voice that only rambles facts and data.

Instead, you should talk to your listeners like you would talk to any person you meet in a store or restaurant and be willing to share your own story.

For instance, the Aubrey Marcus Podcast is rapidly growing because he dares to be intimate and share about his past when he struggled with mental health problems and couldn’t find his way.

Your listeners want to connect with you, the real you. Not some made-up version or robotic character. No one can tell your story as you can, so don’t be afraid to be authentic and unique.

3. Don’t Be Afraid to Use Humor

Don’t be afraid to use humor in your podcast. Even if you want to deliver a serious message, don’t put a damper on things and leave your listeners miserable. You can still get the message through to people.

In fact, humor helps you deliver important and credible information in a light and entertaining way. Being a little ridiculous and self-deprecating will also help you connect with your audience. It shows you’re human like everyone else.

And sometimes humor might grab the wheel on its own and take you somewhere you didn’t plan to go, which may make your episode even better.

4. Get Interesting Guests on Your Show

What guest you get on your show can sometimes make or break your episode. Ask yourself if your audience will benefit and get valuable content from your guest? What does your audience want? What makes them tick?

If someone asks to be featured on your podcast, don’t be afraid to ask these tough questions and vet your guests to find the “golden nuggets” and the right fit.

Also, don’t be afraid to reach out to experts within your niche and ask for an interview. Getting expert guests on your show will not only provide your listeners with credible and engaging content, but it can also help you attract more followers.

5. Be Consistent With Your Release Schedule

Having a consistent release schedule is crucial to building a loyal audience. The most successful podcasters are releasing their episodes every week at the same time to create routines and behaviors for their listeners. Once your audience has committed to listening to your show, they need to know they can count on it to be there.

Imagine the disappointment if they had looked forward to your weekly episode and you decide to skip a week. Your listeners would drop off and may not give you a second chance. People like routines, so consistency is key.

And the same goes for you. You want to set the standard for yourself and send out a podcast at the same time each week so that you can create a routine you’ll stick to, no matter what goes on in your personal life.

Conclusion

And there you have 5 secrets to a successful podcast. Don’t forget to check out your competitors to see what they are doing well and make improvements to become even better. Also, try to get featured on other podcasts to promote your show. You can do that by providing value to other podcasts. Now, get your word out there and start building your loyal fan base.