How to begin making a Successful Podcast Side Hustle

With the podcasting industry valued at $25 billion, it’s no wonder that many individuals are eager to start their own podcast as a side hustle. But what does it take to create a successful podcast? In this article, we’ll explore the latest findings on what top podcasts have in common and what listeners are looking for in their favorite shows.

What Do Top Podcasts Have in Common?

A recent study analyzed the top 250 podcasts on Apple Podcasts and found that they have several key characteristics in common. First, the average length of a top podcast is 65 minutes, which is longer than many people may expect. This suggests that listeners are willing to commit to a longer format as long as the content is engaging.

Second, the study found that 68% of top podcasts use the interview format, while 20% use a deep topic explanation. This highlights the importance of finding a format that resonates with your target audience and allows you to showcase your expertise.

Third, the study found that the top 10 most successful genres are society and culture, comedy and humor, true crime, news, education, business, health and wellness, improv, personal development, and documentary. This suggests that there is a wide range of topics that can be successful in the podcasting world.

The Art of Podcasting: Tips and Tricks

So what makes a successful podcast host? The study found that hosts who spoke an average of 174 words per minute were more likely to be successful. This suggests that pacing is key when it comes to keeping listeners engaged.

The study also found that hosts who used fewer filler words like “um” and “like” were more likely to be successful. This suggests that practice and preparation can make a big difference in terms of delivery.

In terms of intros, the study found that half of the top podcasts included an ad in their intro. This suggests that advertisers are interested in reaching podcast listeners and that incorporating ads into your show can be a viable way to monetize your podcast.

Finally, the study found that most top podcasts had more than one host and included at least one guest on each episode. This suggests that collaboration and variety can be important factors in creating a successful podcast.

Cover Art: The First Impression

When it comes to cover art, the study found that the top 50 podcasts had more black and blue colors than any other color. This suggests that these colors may be more visually appealing to listeners.

The study also found that 52% of cover art did not include a picture of the host. This suggests that the focus may be on creating a visually appealing image rather than featuring the host.

Finally, the study found that only 38% of podcasts used bolded font. This suggests that simplicity may be key when it comes to creating effective cover art.

Who Listens to Podcasts?

So who is listening to podcasts? The study found that nearly 70% of Americans have listened to a podcast at some point in their lives. This suggests that podcasts have become increasingly mainstream.

The study also found that most podcast listeners (64%) usually tune in on Spotify, with 34% choosing Apple Podcasts. A smaller percentage (6%) use YouTube Music.

Why People Listen to Podcasts

So why do people listen to podcasts? The study found that most listeners (69%) return to a show because they find the hosts or guests entertaining. This suggests that humor and charisma can be important factors in creating a successful podcast.

The study also found that 70% of listeners return to a show because they find new information or perspectives. This suggests that providing valuable insights or information can be an important factor in creating a successful podcast.

Finally, the study found that 36% of listeners return to a show because they appreciate the host’s expertise in a certain topic. This suggests that establishing yourself as an expert in your field can be an important factor in creating a successful podcast.

How to Start a Podcast Side Hustle

So how do you get started with your own podcast side hustle? Here are some tips:

• Choose a format: Decide on a format for your podcast. Will you be interviewing guests or sharing your own stories? Will you be focusing on a specific topic or covering a wide range of topics?
• Find your niche: Identify your niche or area of expertise. What are you passionate about? What do you know about?
• Invest in quality equipment: Invest in quality equipment such as a microphone and headphones. This will help you produce high-quality audio.
• Develop your brand: Develop your brand by creating a logo and cover art for your podcast.
• Promote your show: Promote your show by sharing it on social media and reaching out to other podcasters.
• Be consistent: Be consistent with your podcasting schedule. Decide on a format and stick to it.

Here is a list of items you may need to start a podcast:

Equipment

• Microphone: You can use a USB microphone like the Blue Yeti or the Rode NT-USB, or a digital microphone like the Shure SM7B.
• Headphones: Good-quality headphones are essential for monitoring your audio and catching any mistakes.
• Pop filter: A pop filter can help reduce plosive sounds (like “p” and “t”) and prevent distortion.
• Boom arm: A boom arm can help you position your microphone correctly.
• Stand: A microphone stand can help you keep your microphone stable and secure.
• Audio interface: An audio interface connects your microphone to your computer and helps you record high-quality audio.
• Studio monitors: Studio monitors can help you listen to your audio in a more accurate way.

Software

• Recording software: You’ll need software to record and edit your podcast. Popular options include Audacity, GarageBand, and Adobe Audition.
• Editing software: You’ll need software to edit your podcast, such as trimming silence, removing noise, and adding music or sound effects.
• Hosting platform: You’ll need a hosting platform to store your podcast files and make them accessible to listeners.

Design and Branding

• Logo: A logo will help you establish your brand identity and make your podcast recognizable.
• Cover art: Your cover art should be visually appealing and represent your podcast’s theme or topic.
• Color scheme: Choose a color scheme that reflects your podcast’s brand and tone.
• Fonts: Select fonts that fit your podcast’s tone and style.

Miscellaneous

• Script or outline: A script or outline can help you stay organized and ensure that you cover all the topics you want to discuss.
• Research materials: Depending on your topic, you may need research materials such as books, articles, or online resources.
• Guest equipment: If you’re planning to interview guests, you’ll need to provide them with equipment such as headphones or a microphone.
• Recording space: You’ll need a quiet, comfortable space to record your podcast. This could be a home office, a studio, or a co-working space.

Online Presence

• Website: A website will help you establish an online presence for your podcast and provide listeners with more information about your show.
• Social media accounts: Social media accounts will help you promote your podcast and connect with listeners.
• Podcast directories: You’ll need to submit your podcast to directories such as Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts.

Marketing and Promotion

• Email list: An email list will help you stay in touch with listeners and promote new episodes or updates.
• Newsletter template: A newsletter template will help you create consistent-looking emails for your listeners.
• Social media advertising: You may want to use social media advertising to promote your podcast and reach new listeners.
• Guest blogging: Guest blogging can help you promote your podcast and reach new audiences by sharing your expertise on other blogs or websites.

Budget

• Equipment budget: You’ll need to budget for the cost of equipment such as microphones, headphones, and software.
• Software budget: You’ll need to budget for the cost of software such as recording software and editing software.
• Marketing budget: You’ll need to budget for the cost of marketing and promotion, such as social media advertising and guest blogging.

Conclusion

Starting a successful podcast side hustle requires careful planning and execution. By understanding what top podcasts have in common and what listeners are looking for, you can create a show that resonates with your target audience. Whether you’re looking to express your creativity or earn some extra income, starting a podcast can be a fulfilling and lucrative side hustle.

By following the tips outlined in this article, you can create a show that attracts listeners and helps you achieve your goals. Remember to stay focused, stay consistent, and always keep your audience in mind.