Your Podcast Launch Checklist
Everything you need to go from idea to published, step by step. Check off items as you complete them — your progress is saved automatically.
You did it! Your podcast is ready to launch.
Every item on the checklist is complete. Now get out there and share your voice with the world. Good luck!
Planning
0/5Equipment
0/4Recording & Editing
0/4Branding
0/3Hosting & RSS
0/4Distribution
0/6Launch
0/4Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to launch a podcast?
Most people can go from idea to published in 1–2 weeks if they stay focused. The biggest time sinks are recording and editing your first episodes, and waiting for Apple Podcasts approval (1–3 business days). You can speed things up by batch-recording your first 3 episodes in one session.
Do I really need all this equipment?
No. You can record a podcast with just your phone or laptop microphone. But a $60 USB microphone like the Audio-Technica ATR2100x dramatically improves audio quality and listener retention. Headphones, pop filters, and acoustic treatment are nice-to-haves that you can add over time.
What if I already have a podcast hosted somewhere?
Skip ahead to the phases that apply to you. This checklist is designed so you can jump to any section. If you are already hosted and distributed, the Launch phase items (uploading 3 episodes before announcing, asking for reviews) still apply and are often overlooked.
Other podcaster tools
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Validate your podcast feed against Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Podcasting 2.0 specs.
Cover Art Checker
Check your podcast artwork against Apple and Spotify size, format, and quality requirements.
Episode Speed Calculator
Calculate how much time you save listening at faster speeds.
OPML Viewer & Editor
View, search, and edit your podcast subscriptions. Export a cleaned OPML file.
Claim your show and get free listener intelligence
See the real questions your audience is asking about your episodes. Free for all podcasters.