Your podcast name can make or break your show. Make it count.
Your podcast name is going to follow you. Literally, follow you – everywhere. You need a name that is not only memorable and catchy, but also performs well on the apps and with listeners. Here are some tips to help you choose your podcast name, wisely:
- KEEP IT SIMPLE.
Your name should be under 4 words, and no less than 2. This might seem like a bigger quest than it is, but trust us, most name ideas you will come up with will fall between this word count. If they don’t, keep thinking. The name needs to sit comfortably on the cover art and be punchy enough to remember, plus a short name increases the chances of someone searching for you in their favourite app. Get rid of any mentions of ‘podcast’ in the title and use those words for something that actually makes an impact, too.
- DO YOUR RESEARCH.
Before you commit to a name you love, check for doppelgangers. There are so many podcasts out there that you will likely come across some that will have your ideal name. Don’t fret – you got this. Just keep looking for your perfect fit that doesn’t occupy a space on the podcast charts. You don’t want to confuse listeners. Use the search function in Apple and Spotify but also google the name and ‘podcast’ to see what shows up.
“Use the search function in Apple and Spotify but also google the name and ‘podcast’ to see what shows up.”
- AND EVEN MORE ON SEARCH.
Speaking of search, is it a name that is google-able? What happens if you type it in now, what shows up? What are you competing with? Same with the podcast platforms too.
- SAY IT OUT LOUD.
Some names may look cool but sound awful. Try to avoid any funky spelling, symbols or made up words that you will have to clarify in recordings. The rule is: if you are finding the title of your podcast hard to pronounce, you should keep looking. Try to make small adjustments until you feel comfortable saying your podcast name out loud and you will figure out the right combination.
“The rule is: if you are finding the title of your podcast hard to pronounce, you should keep looking.”
- THINK OF THE FUTURE.
Even if you have a niche podcast, you would ideally have a name that encompasses more than just the specialty subject you started with. This would give your podcast room to grow. You don’t want to hinder the longevity of the podcast by constricting it to one specific name that limits its scope. Think about giving your podcast a descriptive name that gives listeners a feel for your show, while also giving yourself some space to expand your original ideas.
- LOVE IT.
Finally – always make sure you are absolutely in love with the name of your podcast. You will be your podcast’s biggest fan, and you need to be fully invested and want to speak to everyone you know about your show. Lukewarm feelings towards it are just not good enough.
“You will be your podcast’s biggest fan.”