What to do with your podcast over the holidays
Spring is here, which means it’s officially time to start planning what you’ll do with your podcast over the Christmas and New Year period!
While it’s not quite time to break out the pavlova and strawberries just yet, it is a good idea to start thinking about your holiday strategy. Because it’s not cool to just ghost your audience!
Here’s how to treat yourself to some much-deserved rest without your listeners giving you the silent treatment.
It’s Totally Okay to Chill
Podcasting is a beast, and being consistent is key. That’s how your fans know you're not a flake.
But guess what? During the holidays, they get it. Listens dip anyway, and if you’ve let them know when you’ll be back, they’re more likely to stick around patiently.
But how can you make sure you’re taking your well-deserved break, while making sure you don’t totally lose your audience?
Here are some ideas:
1. Slow It Down Without Vanishing
Still want to show up, but with fewer pep talks? Stretch your schedule to every other week and keep that podcast flame flickering, even if you're halfway to a gingerbread coma.
2. Remix Your Own Genius
No desire to create brand-new content? No problem. Bundle your greatest hits into “best-of” montages, dust off never-used clips, or serve them up “from behind the curtain”. "Best-of" episodes, holiday-themed banter, or spontaneous guest collabs keep things sparky.
3. Play Matchmaker with Pod Swaps
Still want fresh stuff in your feed? Invite a niche neighbour podcaster to post to your audience.
4. Go Solo, Because You’re Awesome
If your show usually features a tango of voices, do a solo spin during the holidays. Or let co-hosts take turns flying solo. It’s easier, snappier, and you’re still present.
5. Batch Your Magic in Advance
Got evergreen tidbits? Record them ahead of time and let them gently drip while you’re off relaxing at the bach. Even timely shows can manage a year-in-review or fun holiday wrap.
6. Be That Podcaster Who Plans (and Tells Your Audience)
There’s zero brownie points for surprise silence. Let listeners know what to expect and drop a note in an episode or social post, so they don’t refresh their feeds in dazed confusion.
Pro Holiday-Pod Hacks
Pencil in your release calendar: avoid dropping episodes on big celebration days; think ahead, shift release dates, or pause and return with pizzazz.
Get your audience on board: have them share their holiday tales, tag you on socials, or reply to your newsletter. Then, weave their stories into your episodes. Engagement = love.
The secret sauce? You do you. Whether you slow the show to a cozy stroll, jam-pack content early, or get your listeners in on the action, there’s no wrong way, only what works for your story. Happy holidays, and may your mic stay merry.