Starting a podcast sounds easy, you just talk about what you know, right?
Right…until you realize a podcast has a lot more going on behind the scenes, and very few podcasts make it past the first few episodes.
Here’s what the stats say:
- 90% of podcasts don’t make it past episode 3
- A huge number stall before episode 20
- And fewer than 5% ever reach 100 episodes
I’ve been podcasting since 2021 and am proud to say I’m nearing episode 200. The platform my podcast offers is a unique and engaging way for me to share my thought leadership.
She Talks Business has given me the chance to speak freely about what I’ve learned, to interview friends, colleagues, and business leaders I deeply admire, and to contribute to a vibrant community of entrepreneurs.
Over the past few episodes alone, I’ve shared conversations with Mark Schaefer on the future of AI-driven marketing and with Mari Smith on how to stay authentic in a constantly evolving social media world. I was even a guest on Eleanor Beaton’s Woman Owned podcast, where we talked about long-term client strategy and what it takes to run a sustainable business.
It’s been energizing, collaborative, and fun, but podcasting isn’t just about conversations. It’s about consistency.
And consistency is where most podcasts fail.
If you want to start or revive your own podcast, here is a tactical guide to help you plan, commit to, and sustain a podcast that supports your business goals and thought leadership.
The 5 Reasons Podcasts Fail (and How to Avoid Them)
1. No Content Strategy
This is the biggest misstep I see. Without a plan for what you’re going to say and why it matters, it’s easy to burn out quickly.
Tip: Create a roadmap. Start with themes you want to cover, then brainstorm 12–20 episode ideas before you record anything.
2. No Commitment to Consistency
Podcasting is a long game. If you’re only committed to the first 3 episodes, your audience won’t have time to trust you.
Tip: Decide on a realistic cadence—weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly—and build it into your workflow like any other marketing asset.
3. Trying to Script Everything
If you want to sound like an expert, speak like one. Over-scripted shows lose energy fast.
Tip: Use outlines and talking points instead. Focus on clarity, not perfection.
4. Underestimating the Production Process
Podcasting does take time—and usually more than one person. There are audio files, editing, show notes, graphics, scheduling, and distribution.
Tip: Document your process or work with support. I don’t produce She Talks Business alone—and I wouldn’t want to.
5. No Plan for Distribution
You can’t build a loyal following if no one knows your show exists.
Tip: Share each episode across your channels (email, social, blog). Consider creating short video or audio snippets to tease the content.
Bonus: Should You Podcast in Audio or Video?
The short answer? It depends on your audience.
Audio is perfect for on-the-go listeners, people who consume content while walking, driving, or working.
Video is great for platforms like YouTube and LinkedIn, where visual connection and behind-the-scenes glimpses can go further.
There isn’t a right or wrong answer, but meet your audience where they are most engaged.
Final Thought:
If you’re passionate about your work and have ideas worth sharing, podcasting can be a powerful platform to build credibility, grow your community, and show up consistently as a thought leader.
Don’t wing it. Plan it. Then commit.
And if you’re looking for support developing a custom strategy—whether for podcasting or another platform—reach out to book an Action Accelerator. It’s a focused time to build a plan that aligns with your business goals and capacity.
A LIVE 5-MONTH COHORT WITH LISA LARTER · STARTS AUG 4, 2026