Thinking about starting a podcast in 2025 and worried about tech overwhelm or where to even begin? You’re not alone. However, after launching two shows during seasons of intense mom-life chaos—yet with real growth, trust, and audience connection—I’m sharing exactly what I’d do differently today. Consequently, this guide is built to give you clarity, tools, and confidence to start your own show—without burnout. I also made a companion guide for you, complete with photos of my equipment and all that jazz!
Whether you're in the dreaming phase, already recording episodes, or just curious about what it really takes to get a podcast off the ground without burning out — this post is for you.
🎧 Prefer to listen instead? Check out the episode!
Podcasting Changed My Business—Twice
My first show, Breath of Fresh Air, was created for dental practice managers—yep, a very specific niche—and yet it became the launching pad for a new arm of my business. It helped me land speaking gigs, build a loyal audience, and create deeper client connections.
Now, with my second podcast, One Wild Brand, I’ve narrowed in even more. I created this show for women like you: solopreneurs, brand builders, and creative business owners who are tired of spinning their wheels on short-form content and ready to build something with more substance.
And that’s exactly what podcasting gives you:
🔀 Evergreen content that works while you sleep
💛 Deeper trust and connection with your audience
📍 Long-term growth that doesn’t rely on algorithms
1. Get Specific—Then Get Even More Specific
Here’s the deal: podcasting isn’t oversaturated. But general podcasts? Those are. If your show is for "women in business" or "creative entrepreneurs," you’re going to get lost in the scroll. If your show is for "brand-new Etsy shop owners trying to make their first $1k," now we’re talking.
Being specific helps the right people find you—and fall in love with your show. Furthermore, it makes your content more bingeable, which increases downloads and engagement.
When I launched One Wild Brand, I knew I was speaking to a very particular kind of woman:
→ She’s juggling work and home
→ She loves aesthetics but needs help with consistency
→ She’s DIYing her brand (and getting overwhelmed in Canva)
That clarity shaped my content, my guests, and even my podcast freebies. Start with your people in mind—and speak directly to them.
2. Build a Brain Dump List Before You Record Anything
Before you hit record, name your show, or design cover art—start a running list of episode ideas. Seriously. Use your Notes app and brain dump.
Because inspiration often hits at the most unexpected times, keeping a list handy is key. Whether it’s a solo rant, a guest wishlist, or a recurring Q&A series—jot it down.
This list will not only make content planning easier, it’ll also boost your confidence. Seeing 20+ episode ideas staring back at you is proof that yes—you do have something to say.
Moreover, it helps you stay consistent, which is one of the biggest markers of podcast success.
3. Choose Tools That Work With Your Life (Not Against It)
I’m not here for overcomplicated workflows or expensive tech. I’m here for what’s easy, effective, and gets it done. Here’s what I use every single week while starting a podcast in 2025:
- 🎧 Buzzsprout for podcast hosting
→ Sends my show to Apple, Spotify, and everywhere else
→ Offers dynamic ad insertion so I can promote freebies, courses, and future sponsors - 💻 SquadCast for recording
→ Studio-quality audio + video, even for remote interviews
→ Records each speaker on a separate track = less editing pain - ✂️ Descript for editing
→ Edit by deleting words in a transcript (yes, really)
→ Auto removes filler words like "um" and "like"
→ Built-in audiogram + video tools for social - 🎨 Canva for promotion
→ I create Instagram posts, Pinterest graphics, and audiograms
→ It keeps my brand looking polished, even when I’m in sweatpants
In addition, these tools all integrate smoothly into my weekly routine.
4. Plan to Monetize Before You Launch
Even if you’re not planning to monetize on day one, know how you eventually will. I’ve coached dozens of women through this—and the biggest mistake I see? Launching a podcast with no plan to turn it into profit.
Here are a few monetization paths to consider:
- Promote your own products or courses
- Land podcast sponsors once you’ve grown your audience
- Use affiliate links and recommendations you actually use
- Create a nurture funnel that turns listeners into clients
Therefore, it pays to think a few steps ahead. Podcasting can and should support your business financially.
5. Add a Freebie Early (Like, in Episode 1)
This is my “if I could go back, I would” advice: include an email list opt-in right from the start.
When someone finds your show and binges from episode one (which they will!), give them a way to stay connected. A freebie is the easiest way to do that.
Not sure what kind of freebie to create? Tie it directly to your podcast topic—something your listeners would naturally want more of.
I created a Podcast Equipment & Tech Checklist as a freebie to go with this episode and blog. It’s simple, helpful, and gets people on my list. (P.S. You can grab it here).
Additionally, early list-building gives you an edge as your audience grows.
6. Don’t Default to an Interview-Only Show
Listen, I love a good guest interview. But interviews don’t automatically make your show engaging. Your best content might come from you—sharing your thoughts, stories, advice, and real behind-the-scenes.
Solo episodes let your audience connect with you—your voice, your vibe, your value.
If you do include interviews, go deeper than the standard "tell me your story." Ask bold questions. Be the host who actually listens and follows the thread. Consequently, your episodes will stand out.
7. Use Dynamic Ads to Stay Flexible (and Profit-Ready)
Dynamic ads sound intimidating, but I promise—they’re not.
I use them through Buzzsprout, and it allows me to add promos to every single episode, even the old ones. Whether I’m sharing a new offer, affiliate link, or launching something new, I can insert an ad to my entire catalog without re-editing every file.
Subsequently, this gives your content more longevity and makes your ad spots way more valuable.
8. Focus on Audio Quality—But Don’t Overthink It
Good audio matters. But that doesn’t mean you need to build a studio in your closet. Here’s my basic setup:
Although your first few episodes might not sound perfect, that’s okay. You’ll improve. The goal is progress, not perfection.
Furthermore, software like Descript will help polish things up without needing to hire an editor right away.
Final Thoughts: From My Mic to Yours
Podcasting has been one of the most trust-building, joy-filled, unexpectedly powerful parts of my business. It’s where I show up the most "me," where I connect with my audience on a deeper level, and where I get to create content that lasts.
If you’re sitting on the edge wondering, “Should I be starting a podcast in 2025?”—let this be your nudge.
You don’t need to know everything. You just need to start.
I’m cheering for you. And if you need a shortcut, grab my free guide here. It has all the tools, links, and setup info you need to get rolling without the overwhelm.
You’ve got this. And I’ll be here—quad espresso in hand—ready to listen.
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