Podcasts are an amazing way to get free training, learn new things, stay up-to-date with information in a certain niche, or simply be entertained. However, listening to a podcast is not as simple as pressing play, especially if you’re using a podcast as a training tool.
To get the most out of your podcast listening experience, follow these 10 tips to ensure you’re listening effectively and efficiently
Choose the right podcast for you
With so many podcasts available, it’s important to choose the right one for you.
Consider your interests, hobbies, and goals when selecting a podcast to listen to. Look for podcasts that align with your values and provide valuable information or entertainment. Don’t be afraid to try out new podcasts, but also don’t feel obligated to stick with one that doesn’t resonate with you.
Ask friends or your social media following for recommendations and give a few of them a try. You never know what you might discover!
Once you’ve found a podcast that interests you, make sure to read the description and listen to a few episodes before committing to it. This will give you a better idea of the format, tone, and content of the podcast. Some podcasts may have a specific theme or focus, while others may cover a variety of topics. It’s important to find a podcast that you enjoy listening to and that keeps you engaged. Don’t be afraid to switch things up and try out different genres or styles of podcasts. With so many options available, there’s something out there for everyone.
Make time for listening
One of the most important tips for getting the most out of podcast listening is to make time for it.
This might be easy to say, but, if you want to learn from a podcast then you need to dedicate time to that learning.
Depending on how much time you have will likely affect the shows you listen to. For example, if your commute is 20 minutes long, then an hour-long podcast episode probably won’t be for you.
Whether you listen during your commute, while doing household chores, or during a workout, find a time that works for you and make it a regular habit. Consistency is key when it comes to building a podcast listening routine. You can also try setting aside dedicated time each week to listen to your favourite podcasts, like a “podcast night” or “podcast hour.”
My favourite time to listen to podcasts is on the school run. We usually listen to audiobooks when the kids are in the car (we’re currently getting through Harry Potter!), but once they’re dropped off, I’ll listen to a podcast episode on the way home.
I have a few different genres that I listen to. The main genre is business; particularly those that have a very similar tone and style to The Confident CEO Podcast. But other genres that I enjoy are history and mindset.
Looking for a new podcast? Check out this post! ⬇️
Use a podcast app to organise and manage your subscriptions
Keeping track of all your favourite podcasts can be overwhelming, especially if you subscribe to multiple shows.
Using a podcast app (which is provided by a podcast directory) can help you stay organised and manage your subscriptions more efficiently.
Many podcast apps allow you to create playlists, mark episodes as played or unplayed, and even adjust the playback speed. Some popular podcast apps include Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Stitcher. Find the one that works best for you and start organising your podcast listening today.
My personal favourite app to listen to podcasts on is Apple Podcasts. Take note of that if you’re a podcaster, by the way. Like nearly 40% of podcast listeners, I use Apple Podcasts to listen to podcasts. In fact, Apple Podcasts has the largest listenership of any podcast directory. (And for reference, Spotify comes in second).
Listen to podcasts during your commute or while doing chores
One of the best things about podcasts is that you can listen to them while doing other things.
Whether you have a long commute to work or are doing household chores, listening to a podcast can make the time go by faster and help you stay informed.
Just be sure to stay aware of your surroundings if you are listening while walking or driving. And if you find yourself getting distracted, try pausing the podcast and coming back to it later when you can give it your full attention.
As I said, my favourite place and time to listen to podcasts is when I’m in the car on the school run. But, I have also been known to listen when cooking or clearing up after dinner.
Conclusion
If you’re new to podcasts, it can be overwhelming to know where to start.
One tip is to find a podcast on a topic that interests you, whether it’s true crime, politics, or pop culture. You can also ask friends or family for recommendations. Once you’ve found a podcast you like, subscribe to it so you never miss an episode. Most podcast apps will automatically download new episodes for you.
And don’t be afraid to try out different podcasts and genres to find what you enjoy the most. With so many options out there, there’s something for everyone.
So next time you have a long commute or a pile of dishes to wash, give a podcast a try and see how it can make your day a little more enjoyable.
