What top podcasters have in common (and how you can join them)
Let’s cut through the noise. If you’re wondering why some shows explode while others plateau, it’s not always about having celebrity guests or viral TikToks. The best-performing podcasters (whether they’ve got a tiny niche or global fame) tend to nail a handful of key traits.
After producing shows across Aotearoa and beyond, here’s what I see again and again in shows that grow and keep their audience:
1. A Charismatic Host with a Clear POV
Listeners don’t just tune in for info; they come for you. The best hosts have a strong, authentic voice. They’re not trying to sound like someone else. They’ve got a perspective and they own it. Whether it’s sharp, soothing, hilarious or heartfelt, they bring themselves to the mic.
Tip: Do a gut-check: does your tone match your content? Is your POV clear in your trailer or intro?
2. A Clear Format and Predictable Structure
Even the most creative shows benefit from structure. A consistent intro, segments, music beds, and episode length help listeners feel grounded. It’s about building trust. Your audience knows what to expect and when to expect it.
Think: do you start strong? Is your show tight, or does it waffle?
3. Memorable Visual & Audio Branding
Your cover art, theme music, trailer, and even Instagram tiles all build your brand. Top podcasters don’t wing it, they have visual and sonic consistency. And they make it recognisable across platforms.
In NZ’s growing podcast scene, branding helps you stand out, especially when pitching to media or sponsors.
4. Excellent Audio Quality
This one’s a dealbreaker. If your levels are all over the place, your sound is muffled, or your guest’s mic sounds like it’s underwater… people bounce. Top podcasters invest in audio (even basic gear and editing go a long way).
You don’t need a fancy studio, just a clear mic and smart editing.
5. Consistency (Yes, That Old Chestnut)
Whether it’s every Tuesday or the first of the month, your audience needs to know when to expect you. Top podcasters don’t ghost. They build habits.
Can’t commit weekly? That’s okay. Go seasonal. Just be consistent within that plan.
6. Community-Minded and Feedback Friendly
Great shows feel like a two-way convo. The best podcasters actually listen to their listeners, through DMs, reviews, or feedback forms, and use that to tweak their content.
Ask questions. Respond. Build a culture around your show.
7. Multi-Platform Presence Beyond RSS
Podcasts don’t live in podcast apps alone. Top creators repurpose content for YouTube, newsletters, Reels, blogs, LinkedIn, whatever suits their audience.
You don’t have to do everything. Just choose a few channels and do them well.
8. Niche Authority or Mass Appeal
Here’s the deal: you can go deep into your niche, or you can shoot for broad reach, but trying to do both often means you do neither. Top shows know their lane and double down.
What’s your show’s sweet spot? Hone it.
Ready to Level Up?
If you’re looking at that list and thinking, “Ugh, I’ve got a few of those but not all,” don’t panic. The best podcasts evolve over time. Focus on one or two improvements, test and tweak, and keep showing up.
Want help getting there faster? Let’s talk strategy.