What are the most common mistakes you see in podcast production, and how can they be avoided?

Common mistakes in podcast production include poor audio quality, lack of preparation, and inconsistent scheduling. To avoid these, invest in good equipment, record in a quiet environment, and use editing tools to polish sound. Always plan your episodes with a clear structure and do proper research beforehand. Consistency is key—stick to a regular release schedule to build audience loyalty. Lastly, engage with your listeners and adapt based on their feedback to continually improve.

OK, so poor audio quality is one of the biggest mistakes I see, and honestly, it's like 70% of what makes a podcast work. The visuals are nice, but if the sound is bad, people won't stick around. 

ALSO you could have the best equipment in the world, but without a skilled editor to polish it, it’s like owning a sports car with no gas—looks great, but it’s not going anywhere.

► That’s why podcast editors are key.

They take the raw audiovisuals and make it something people actually want to hear. Good gear is cool, but the real magic happens when someone knows how to work with it.

The biggest mistakes I see are using the wrong tools for the job. For example, instead of recording your podcast remotely over Zoom, use a solution that is built for the job like Riverside.

Also, microphone setup and technique is something that is commonly overlooked. Make sure to have a microphone dedicated to each person appearing on the show, and place it properly so that their voice is captured and has a good level as compared to the ambient noise in the room. If a speaker is too far away from the mic, they can sound quiet and there can be a lot of room noise which makes things sound amateurish.

Biggest mistakes? Bad audio quality and rambling content. People will tune out if it sounds rough or goes off track too much. To avoid that, use decent mics, record in a quiet space, and keep the episode focused. Edit out the fluff and make sure it flows. Quality over length, always!

Common mistakes in podcast production include poor audio quality, which can be avoided by using good equipment and minimizing background noise. Inconsistent publishing can be addressed by sticking to a regular release schedule. A lack of structure disrupts listener engagement, so it’s important to organize episodes clearly. Overediting can harm the natural flow of the conversation, so it’s best to edit thoughtfully. Finally, neglecting promotion limits reach, so actively promoting your podcast through social media and other channels is crucial.