The Podcast Strategy That Actually Works (And Took Me 6 Years to Learn)

Originally published on allisonhare.com

If you’re looking for a plug-and-play formula to grow a podcast fast—you might want to pop-out and keep scrolling TikTok for generic hacks and tricks.

But if you’re here for the real, raw, lived-in version of what it takes to build a podcast that lasts? Keep going.

I’ve been podcasting since 2019. That’s over 250 episodes, nearly a million downloads, ranked in the top 1.5% globally, won awards, five name changes, and plenty of moments I almost gave up. What kept me going wasn’t viral growth, sponsorship deals, or “making it.” It was something deeper—and a whole lot more sustainable.

This blog post (based on episode 253 of Reinvention Room) breaks down the podcast strategy I wish someone had handed me when I started.

10 Hard-Earned Lessons in Podcast Strategy

1. Downloads are not the metric that matters.

You can obsess over numbers that don't tell the real story or necessarily make the impact you desire or you can build relationships—but you can’t do both well. Your show’s true value is in connection, not chart positions.

2. Your voice isn't bad —it’s underused.

You’re not too quiet or too messy. You just need more aligned listeners and better positioning. Stop trying to be someone you’re not to “sound more pro.”

3. Name clarity > cleverness.

I’ve renamed my podcast five times. Each time I got a little clearer. If you have to explain your show title in every convo, it’s not a good strategy.

4. Use the 4 P’s of Podcast Strategy:

This is the framework I now coach on:

• Purpose – Why does your podcast exist?

• Person – Who are you talking to? (One person, not everyone.)

• Premise – What’s your unique perspective?

• Promise – What portable takeaway can your listener count on every time?

Most podcasters wing this part—and wonder why it doesn’t click.

5. Podcasting is a high-value networking tool.

Forget cold DMs. Your show is a backstage pass to conversations and relationships you wouldn’t otherwise have access to. Use it.

6. You don’t need celebrity guests to grow.

My most downloaded episodes? They’re not the ones with the biggest names. They’re the ones with the biggest impact. Case in point: Cindy Robinson. Almost zero social media in the beginning. Massive resonance.

7. Overediting kills your vibe.

Yes, polish your show. But don’t scrub it until there’s no soul left. People are craving real—not robotic. Keep your quirks.

8. Let your podcast evolve.

If your podcast has changed over time, good. That means you’re growing. You can shift the angles. You can experiment with elements. You can evolve. The best “rule” is: make it true to you and true to your listeners.

9. Podcasting gives your voice context.

Instagram can’t do that. TikTok can’t do that. A podcast lets people hear the nuance, the layers, the you-ness of your message.

10. You are your best sponsor.

Stop waiting for a brand to validate your show. Want to monetize? Align your podcast with your business. You’re the best ad your audience will ever hear.

Bottom Line

Podcast strategy is less about tech stacks and more about truth. And truth takes time. If you’ve been stuck, burnt out, or wondering if your show is even worth it anymore—this is your reminder that it is.

Let it evolve.
Let it reflect who you are now.
Let it be a tool that works for you—not something you constantly hustle for.

And if you want help turning your podcast into something more strategic and aligned, I’ve opened a few spots to help you make your dream podcast come to life.

👉 Book your free podcast clarity call here

Listen Now: The Reinvention Room Podcast

Watch Now: Reinvention Room on YouTube

If you’ve got a podcast or an idea that won’t leave you alone, here's your sign to take it seriously. Not just because it's fun (it is), but because it can change how people see you, connect with you, and trust you. That's the magic.

And if you're wondering how to make it actually work? Book a free clarity call with me at allisonhare.com/freecall. I'll help you turn that idea into a tight, bingeable, client-attracting machine.