8 Game-Changing Lessons from Reddit + Real Talk from a Podcast Producer

When I launched my first podcast back in 2018, I was overflowing with excitement—and just as equally overwhelmed. I thought all I needed was a mic and a good message. But what I quickly learned is that podcasting isn’t just about what you say—it’s about how you plan, how you grow, and how you sustain your show over time.

In this post, I’m blending advice from one of my favorite Reddit threads with my own hard-earned lessons as a podcast strategist and producer. If you’re starting a podcast—or thinking about it—this is what I wish someone had told me from the beginning.

1. Editing Hack: Pause + Restart the Sentence

Let’s be honest: everyone trips over their words. But one of the easiest ways to simplify your editing workflow is this simple trick—pause and restart the entire sentence when you mess up.

So many podcasters try to correct themselves mid-thought, creating a messy string of half-finished words and awkward transitions. This is a nightmare to edit (especially if you're the one editing), and it can confuse your listeners.

Instead, take a beat. Breathe. Start again. It will give you a clean take and save you so much time in post-production.

🎧 Pro tip: Let the recording roll the entire time—don’t stop and start. You’ll keep your flow and reduce tech hiccups.

2. Do It for YOU First—Not the Numbers

It’s easy to get obsessed with downloads, especially when you see other shows racking up thousands of listens. But here's the truth: if you’re only chasing numbers, you’re going to burn out—fast.

Your podcast should be a place where you feel energized, inspired, and connected to your message. If it starts to feel like a chore, it won’t matter how many people are listening—it won’t be sustainable.

I always tell my clients: focus on creating something meaningful. Build a show that reflects your passions, your voice, and your unique point of view. When you do that, the right audience will find you—and they’ll stick around.

💡 Metrics matter, but they don’t define your value as a podcaster. Your energy does.

3. Have a Future Plan (Even If It's Rough)

One of the most overlooked parts of starting a podcast is thinking beyond the launch. It’s easy to focus on getting your first few episodes out, but what’s your bigger vision?

• How will you respond if a sponsor reaches out?

• What kind of partnerships do you want to build?

• Will your show have seasons or be weekly?

• How will you scale your content when life gets busy?

Even a rough outline will help you stay grounded. Podcasting is a long game, and having a roadmap—even a loose one—will keep you moving forward with purpose instead of scrambling to keep up.

🗺 Think of your podcast like a business. A vision keeps it alive.

4. Know Your End Game (And Build Breaks In)

You know what’s not sustainable? Releasing a new episode every single week without a break, forever. Burnout creeps in fast, especially when you're balancing a podcast with a business, a family, or (gasp) a life.

That’s why I love working in seasons. Creating podcast seasons allows you to:

• Batch your content

• Align your themes more intentionally

• Give yourself time to breathe and reset

Even if you don’t map out an entire content calendar, just knowing when and how you’ll take breaks can save your creativity and your sanity.

💥 Pro tip: Use your season breaks to promote past episodes, refresh your strategy, or just rest.

5. Consistency Is Still Queen

Let’s bust a myth: you don’t need to publish an episode every week to be successful. What you do need is consistency—whatever that looks like for you.

Consistency builds trust with your audience. If they know when and how to expect your content, they’re far more likely to become loyal listeners. Whether you release weekly, biweekly, or in themed seasons, just be consistent.

But remember, consistency isn’t just about publishing. It’s also about how you:

• Show up in your messaging

• Promote your episodes

• Build relationships with your audience

📆 Your audience can’t trust what they can’t rely on. Create rhythm—and honor it.

6. Get Over the Camera (Or Talk to Batman)

Recording on camera for the first time is… weird. It’s like trying to sound natural while staring into the soul of your webcam. But one Redditor offered this gem: they put a Lego Batman dressed as a mermaid near their camera to ease the nerves—and I’m obsessed.

It might sound silly, but it works. Find something that helps you relax. Talk to a sticky note. Paste your favorite affirmation. Pretend you’re on FaceTime with your best friend.

🎭 Your energy translates through the mic. The more you can relax, the more your listeners will too.

7. Talk With Your Hands (Yes, Even for Audio)

As an Italian, I live for hand gestures. And while that might sound like a visual-only thing, it actually transforms your audio too.

When you move your hands while speaking:

• Your energy increases

• Your voice naturally gains inflection and emotion

• You sound more confident and passionate

If you're feeling flat or robotic, try standing while you record. Move around. Gesture like you’re speaking to a live audience. You’ll hear the difference—and so will your listeners.

🎤 Energy isn’t about being loud. It’s about being connected. Your body helps you get there.

8. You Monetize an Audience, Not Just a Podcast

This one is huge. One of the biggest myths in podcasting is that a show makes money on its own. The truth is: you don’t monetize the podcast—you monetize the audience.

That means:

• Building a loyal, trusting relationship with your listeners

• Offering products, services, or partnerships that actually serve them

• Creating content that moves them toward a transformation (not just downloads)

Yes, sponsorships are possible. But so are affiliate partnerships, digital offers, private feeds, courses, and more. The magic is in knowing your people—and creating value they’ll pay for.

💰 Your mic is a tool. Your community is your business.

✨ Final Thoughts

Podcasting is a journey, not a sprint. And while there’s no single “right” way to do it, there are better, smoother, more intentional ways to build and grow a show you actually love.

So take these 8 lessons, blend them with your magic, and go create something real. Whether you're behind the mic for the first time or building your next season, remember:

"Where intention goes, energy flows."

About Simona Costantini

Simona Costantini is the Founder and CEO of VOLT Productions, a leading podcast production agency with 30+ weekly shows, many ranking in the top 30-100 in their niches. Simona is a dynamic speaker and podcast host known for delivering actionable insights and value. 

She hosts "Happiness Happens" and "As It Relates to Podcasting" and empowers female entrepreneurs in parenting, wellness, and marketing to launch and grow their podcasts. Her mission is to empower creators to make a meaningful impact with their voices, drawing from her 10+ years of marketing and PR experience. When not working, she enjoys life in wine country with her cockapoo, Gus.

Connect with Simona here:

• Instagram: www.instagram.com/simona__costantini

• Business Instagram: www.instagram.com/volt.productions 

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simona-costantini-25653a30/

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• Website: www.voltproductions.co