Why Do Podcasts Fail? (And How To Make Sure Yours Doesn't)

Podcasting continues to grow, but competition for listeners’ attention has never been fiercer. The Podcast Study 2025* reveals how today’s audiences consume podcasts and what podcasters must do to stand out.

At Yorkshire Podcast Studios, we help creators not just record podcasts, but make them essential listening. But why do podcasts fail? Here are the key takeaways.

Listeners Have Limited Shelf Space

• Most people listen to 3 or fewer podcasts per week.

• They tend to give most of their attention to their favourite podcast. If you are not a listener’s favourite, you are competing for only 1 or 2 remaining slots.

First Impressions Count

• 51% of listeners decide within 5 minutes whether they will stick with a new podcast.

• The first 60 seconds are critical. A strong hook, clear direction, and engaging energy can make the difference.

• Miss the mark early and you may not get a second chance.

Why Listeners Stop Listening & Why Do Podcasts Fail?

The top reasons audiences switch off include:

• Hosts talking over each other

• Too much off-topic chatter

• Trying too hard to be funny

• A boring or slow-moving discussion

Listeners want engaging, on-topic, and well-paced content.

Growing Engagement Beyond the Episode

The study shows fans love deeper connections:

• 71% feel more positive about a podcast after attending a live event.

• VIP clubs, merchandise, and email newsletters help build loyalty.

• Emails directly from the host are especially effective.

  
  

Discovery: How Listeners Find New Podcasts

Top discovery channels:

1. Social media (62%)

2. Friends and family recommendations (57%)

3. Podcast platform suggestions (35%)

Creators should actively share clips, encourage word-of-mouth, and optimise their presence on platforms.

Incentives Work

Contests, giveaways, and sample clips boost engagement and trial. Cash prizes, event tickets, or exclusive perks can turn casual listeners into loyal fans.

Key Action Points for Podcasters

1. Nail your first 60 seconds and hook new listeners quickly.

2. Keep your conversations sharp, engaging, and relevant.

3. Build community with events, merchandise, and VIP clubs.

4. Use social media and short clips to fuel discovery.

5. Stay connected with email marketing.

   
   

At Yorkshire Podcast Studios, we can help you record, produce, and grow a podcast that cuts through the noise.

FAQs

Q: How long should a podcast intro be?

A: Keep it tight. Most listeners prefer a quick start with minimal chit-chat.

Q: Do listeners still respond to newsletters?

A: Yes. Over half of listeners would open an email from their favourite podcast host.

Q: What is the best way to promote my podcast?

A: Social media clips and personal recommendations are the biggest drivers of discovery.

Q: How long do I have to capture a new listener’s attention?

A: The study shows that 51% of listeners decide within the first five minutes whether to continue. Your opening is crucial.

Q: What are the most common mistakes that make listeners stop listening?

A: Poor pacing, irrelevant chit-chat, and hosts talking over each other are among the top reasons people tune out.

Q: What additional strategies can build long-term loyalty?

A: Hosting live events, offering exclusive content through VIP clubs, and creating merchandise are all proven ways to deepen audience engagement.

*Point-To-Point Marketing and Strategic Solutions Research

Want to work with a podcast production team that supports you from start to...well, keeping going! Book a planning call at Yorkshire Podcast Studios