Top Mistakes Beginner Podcasters Make (And How to Avoid Them)

Vincent Garza
Jul 14
2 min read

Updated: Jul 26

Podcast host standing in a modern video production setup with dual cameras, LED lighting, and a smartphone rig in a small studio space

Starting a podcast can be one of the smartest moves for your brand or business. But too often, new podcasters hit the same roadblocks. At SwoleNerd Productions, we’ve helped dozens of creators launch high-quality, affordable podcasts and we’ve seen these same five mistakes come up again and again.

Let’s break them down and help you avoid them from day one.

🎤 Mistake #1: Overcomplicating the Gear

Many beginners think they need a full studio to get started. Truth is, a simple setup with a good mic and basic lighting can go a long way.

What we recommend:

🎙️ https://amzn.to/44Q4aB5 – USB/XLR mic combo that’s affordable and clear (one per guest)
🎧 https://amzn.to/4kBbsOT – Great starter headphones (One per guest)
💡 https://amzn.to/3TWO2sB – Inexpensive lighting setup
🎛️ https://amzn.to/4519pz2 – Audio interface Great for 4 mics
📷 https://amzn.to/4kDmJOL - If doing video, these are great compact cameras. (Ideally 3, but 1 is great to start)

Keep it simple at the start — we help our clients build affordable kits without wasting money on gear they don’t need.

Close-up of a professional podcast microphone in a warm, modern recording studio with dual monitors and ambient lighting

⏳ Mistake #2: Waiting for “Perfect”

Many podcasters never launch because they’re stuck trying to get it just right. Spoiler alert: your first few episodes won’t be perfect. And that’s okay.

Our tip:

Get started. You can always upgrade your mic, fix your branding, or tweak your format later. Progress beats perfection every time.

🎯 Mistake #3: No Clear Audience or Topic

If your podcast is for “everyone,” it’s for no one. You need a specific listener in mind.

Ask yourself:

Who do I want to reach?
What problem do I help solve?
Why should they keep coming back?

Need help finding your niche?

📥 Download our $20 guide: Finding Your Podcast Identity (PDF)

Content creator editing video on dual screens with a digital pen, storyboard sketches, and camera equipment in a creative workspace

🎧 Mistake #4: Skipping Editing

Unedited audio can kill your listenability. Background noise, awkward pauses, and bad pacing all make it harder to keep listeners engaged.

At SwoleNerd Productions, we offer affordable editing packages — but if you want to do it yourself, start with:

🛠️ Descript or Audacity – Beginner-friendly editing tools

🎧 https://amzn.to/4519pz2 – Great for 4 mics

📆 Mistake #5: Inconsistent Posting

Your audience wants to know when to expect new content. Whether it’s weekly, biweekly, or monthly, just be consistent.

We build custom content calendars for podcasters — and even offer batching and scheduling support to make it easier.

Ready to Launch Your Podcast?

You don’t need to do this alone. At SwoleNerd Productions, we make podcasting simple, affordable, and scalable so you wont make those beginner podcast mistakes. Whether you’re just getting started or want to level up your production value, we’ve got solutions that fit your budget.

🎥 Onsite or Remote Video Recording

🎙️ Full Editing Services

🎛️ Studio Sessions or Mobile Setups

📦 Starter Packages With Gear Advice

👉 Book a discovery call today

Bonus Resource:

📚 Want to learn everything about podcasting? Check out our PODCASTING PDF's for more reading material\er