Podcasting for parents

The podcasting format has proved enormously popular and you probably have some favourites of your own. A podcast is like a radio talk show that digs a little deeper. But the advantage of podcasts is that they are available free online to anyone in the world who has a connected device capable of playing audio.

So how do you get your podcast up and running? Here are some tips.

Know your target audience

Ask yourself why you are doing the podcast, if the purpose is to entertain, inform or educate, and then jot down in detail who you are trying to reach. For instance, what age group will you cover? What sort of topics will appeal to that age group?

Once you have the answers to these questions, it will help you plan the content of your episodes, ensuring they are relevant and engaging. For instance, if your podcast is aimed at new parents, you'll want to focus on topics that resonate with them and their interests and challenges.

Choose your name

Find a unique and memorable name for your podcast. Ideally it will hint at the content and stand out to potential listeners with young children. A distinctive name helps with the branding and makes it easier for your audience to find and remember.

At Shilling Speakers Toastmasters Club, we've been running our podcast for two years, building it from the ground up and we’ve got 52 episodes in the can. While the episodes are listened to by our club members, we are also trying to attract new members, by giving them a flavour of what to expect when coming to a meeting at our club. We got the idea from Toastmasters International in America. They have produced over 250 episodes, amplifying the interviews and stories featured in the Toastmasters magazine.

Stick to a structure

Having a consistent structure for your podcast episodes can greatly enhance the listening experience. Decide if you want to present alone or with a team and agree on the segments for each episode. This structure not only brings variety, but also sets clear expectations for the audience. Consistency helps your listeners know what to expect and creates a sense of familiarity, making your podcast appear more organised and professional.

Determine the episode length

The ideal length of a podcast episode can vary, but between 30-40 minutes is generally the most effective because it’s long enough to delve into topics without overwhelming the listener. As you gain more experience, you can adjust the length based on audience feedback and the complexity of the topics covered. Shorter episodes can be punchy and more easily digestible, leaving listeners wanting more and eagerly anticipating the next episode.

Establish a publishing frequency

Consistency is the key in podcasting. Decide how often you'll release new episodes and stick to that schedule. Publishing regular episodes not only meets audience expectations, but also helps maintain listener engagement. Consistency also signals professionalism and reliability which can help you grow a dedicated listener base.

Use effective editing software

Editing can make or break your podcast. Free software like Audacity and GarageBand are excellent starting points. If your budget allows, consider professional options like Adobe Audition or Hindenburg Journalist. Editing involves more than cutting out mistakes, it’s about creating a smooth, engaging flow. A well-edited episode can significantly improve the listener’s experience, making it polished and professional. During editing, pay attention to pacing, remove unnecessary pauses – and ensure transitions between segments are seamless.

Invest in quality recording equipment

When starting a podcast, one important consideration is audio quality. Invest in a high-quality microphone to ensure a clear, professional sound. Consider the recording environment and minimise background noise and echoes to enhance sound. Poor audio quality can deter listeners, no matter how compelling your content is.

Publish on popular platforms

Publish your podcast on major platforms such as Spotify (32m + monthly listeners) and Apple Podcasts (28m+ monthly listeners). Pay attention to the title and description of each episode. A catchy, intriguing title can attract new listeners, while a detailed description with relevant keywords can help your podcast appear in search results. In the post-COVID era, you have just eight seconds to grab a listener’s attention. Consider creating custom artwork for each episode to make it visually appealing.

Promote your parenting podcast

Effective promotion is crucial to growing your audience. Use social media platforms and tailor your approach to your target demographic. Younger audiences, for example, may prefer Instagram and TikTok. Don't forget to share your podcast with friends, family and colleagues. Creating a dedicated podcast website and considering paid advertising or email marketing can also enhance visibility. Another good strategy is to record a promotional video of up to one minute. Engaging with your audience by sharing behind-the-scenes content and encouraging listeners to leave reviews will also lead to a loyal listener base.

If you want a dynamic and enjoyable way to share your voice and your ideas with the world, podcasting could be the perfect medium for you. If you understand your audience, decide on a consistent structure and schedule, invest in quality equipment and promote your content effectively, you will be well on the way to hosting a successful podcast.

About the author

Violeta Saladiene is a member of Toastmasters International, a not-for-profit organisation that has provided communication and leadership skills since 1924 through a worldwide network of clubs. There are more than 400 clubs and 10,000 members in the UK and Ireland. Members follow a structured educational programme to gain skills and confidence in public and impromptu speaking, chairing meetings and time management.

Visit www.toastmasters.org