8 Things I Wish I Knew Before Starting My Podcast (Lessons from Reddit + Real Talk from a Podcast Producer)
Thinking about starting a podcast? Or maybe you're knee-deep in episodes and wondering how to keep growing without burning out?
In this episode of As It Relates to Podcasting , I’m diving into one spicy Reddit thread that asked: "What do you wish you knew before starting your first podcast?" — and I’m weighing in with my expert take as a podcast producer and strategist.
You’ll learn:
✅ The #1 mistake new podcasters make (and how to avoid it)
✅ How to stay motivated when your downloads feel slow
✅ Editing hacks that save HOURS
✅ The truth about monetization (it's not what you think)
✅ Why your WHY matters more than your mic
✅ Plus—real tips I’ve learned since launching in 2018
If you’re a new or growing podcaster who wants practical advice with zero fluff, you’re in the right place.
Learn about:
- 00:00 Introduction
- 01:20 My podcasting journey
- 02:15 The Reddit thread that inspired this episode
- 03:00 Pro editing tips (pause + restart)
- 05:00 Motivation vs. downloads
- 07:00 Planning for future success
- 10:00 How to finish your episodes with clarity
- 13:00 Monetization truth bombs
- 16:00 Final thoughts
JOIN THE VAULT: https://www.voltproductions.co/podcast-success-vault-1001
FREE RESOURCES:
- Book a Call: https://www.voltproductions.co/contact
- Podcast Launch Blueprint: https://voltproductions.co/podcast-launch-blueprint-2025
- Discord Community: https://discord.gg/2cdzVg7Y
MORE RESOURCES:
- Try Descript here: https://get.descript.com/orsams0rrlfo
- Podcast Growth Lab: https://voltproductions.co/podcast-growth-lab
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/
- Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/SimonaCostantini_/
- Website: www.voltproductions.co
- Happiness Happens Podcast: https://www.simonacostantini.com/happinesshappenspodcast
00:00 - Episode 113: [REDDIT] What do you wish you knew before starting your first podcast?
00:53 - sting
01:25 - question
02:22 - reddit
02:50 - pause and restart
04:35 - do it for yourself
06:13 - future plan
06:53 - have an end goalb
07:34 - target
07:40 - where intention goes energy flows
08:44 - reach out
08:50 - focus on consistency
09:53 - getting nervous
10:48 - talk with your hands
11:40 - client story
11:57 - know how to finish your episode
12:22 - anchoring question/thought
13:52 - monetize an audience
13:56 - step 1
14:23 - identify your why
14:28 - identify your who
14:34 - identify the what
14:42 - identify how you will measure success
15:24 - it may take years to make countable income
16:35 - reach out
16:54 - links in bio
16:58 - next week
