We recently celebrated reaching 10,000 downloads for the Ahrefs Podcast. While this may seem like a significant milestone, it actually proved to be more challenging than anticipated. As a well-established brand in the SEO industry with millions of visitors to our blog, views on our YouTube channel, and visits to our free tools, I had expected the podcast to gain traction more easily. However, the journey to 10k downloads taught me some valuable lessons that I believe are important to share with anyone considering starting their own podcast.
First and foremost, launching and maintaining a podcast is a lot more work than many people realize. It involves a significant amount of behind-the-scenes effort, including inviting guests, conducting research, creating engaging content, designing visuals, transcribing, uploading to various platforms, and promoting episodes. It’s not just a matter of recording and publishing – there are many moving parts that require attention to detail and dedication.
Furthermore, running a successful podcast often requires a team effort. While it is possible to manage a podcast solo, having a team can greatly enhance the quality of the show and streamline the production process. From researching guests to editing recordings to designing graphics, each team member plays a crucial role in ensuring the podcast’s success.
Interviewing guests is another aspect of podcasting that can be challenging. As the host, the responsibility falls on you to keep the conversation engaging, ask insightful questions, and guide the discussion in a meaningful direction. Simply following a script of generic questions can result in dull and uninteresting content, which may deter listeners from tuning in.
Additionally, the length of interviews can impact the quality of the content. While some podcasts thrive on short episodes, longer interviews can provide a deeper dive into topics and allow for more in-depth conversations. However, securing guests for extended periods of time can be a challenge, especially for lesser-known podcasts.
Promoting a podcast can also be a daunting task, as relying solely on guest promotion or organic discovery may not yield the desired results. Building credibility as an interviewer, focusing on guests rather than self-promotion, and recognizing the short shelf-life of podcast content are all essential considerations for aspiring podcasters.
Despite the challenges and complexities associated with podcasting, there are also many benefits and opportunities for growth and engagement. While it may not be the most high-converting marketing tactic, a podcast can serve as a valuable tool for branding, building trust, and connecting with audiences on a deeper level.
In conclusion, the journey to 10k downloads of the Ahrefs Podcast has been a valuable learning experience, highlighting the realities of podcasting and the importance of careful planning, teamwork, and dedication. While there are certainly challenges to overcome, the rewards of creating compelling and engaging content can make the effort worthwhile. As we continue to grow and evolve, I look forward to sharing more insights and lessons learned from our podcasting journey.