Podcast FAQ

how to pick a podcast name

by Brian Dietrich Published 2 years ago Updated 1 year ago
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In short, here are some guidelines for picking a great podcast name:

  • Aim for 4 words or less.
  • Choose a name that aligns with your content.
  • Keep it succinct and intriguing.
  • Try to avoid the words “The” and “Podcast.”
  • Avoid special characters, misspellings, abbreviations, and punctuation.
  • Your name should be easy to spell and pronounce.
  • Make sure it’s not already taken.
  • Gather some outside opinions.
  • Think about how your show might evolve over time.
  • Choose a name you like saying out loud.

How To Choose A Podcast Name
  1. Make it short and sweet. Sometimes being simple and direct is best. ...
  2. Use a play on words. ...
  3. Incorporate your brand name. ...
  4. Convey the tone. ...
  5. Consider the search-ability. ...
  6. Think about word-of-mouth discovery. ...
  7. Say your podcast's name out loud–a lot. ...
  8. Get feedback from your network.
May 4, 2022

What makes a good podcast name?

Make a List of Ideas for Your Podcast Names

  • The name should be short and use common phrases.
  • It should relate to the subject of the podcast.
  • It shouldn’t be generic.
  • It should be unique.
  • The name should have a nice ring to it.

How to choose a great podcast name?

There are several different aspects to think about when it comes to SEO & naming your podcast:

  • Try not to pick a business name that's crowded with other businesses
  • Consider naming your business based on highly searched keywords
  • Make sure the name of your business matches search intent and what people are looking for

How to come up with a great podcast name?

How to come up with a Podcast Name

  1. Make your podcast name appealing As a creator, your ultimate aim is to appeal to the audience. Ensuring your content is always relevant is the key. ...
  2. Convey tone and personality in your Podcast name Curating the perfect name according to the tone of the content is essential. ...
  3. Create a relevant podcast name for your audience

What are some good podcast names?

Some shows featured on those roundups remain in my weekly rotation, including news podcast The Daily, parenting podcast Mom and Dad Are Fighting, The FiveThirtyEight Politics Podcast, movie ...

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What makes a good podcast title?

Show titles should be clear, concise, unique, specific, and evocative. They need to telegraph a show's content, tone, treatment, and values. Show titles also need to be optimized for search, avoid redundancies with other metadata, and display cleanly in major podcast apps.

How do I know if a podcast name is taken?

A service like NameChk.com will search over 100 services to see if a name is taken. Also do a quick search on your favorite domain registrar to see if you can get an easy URL to go along with your show.

Can 2 podcasts have the same name?

Podcast names don't work the same as domain names so technically you can have multiple podcasts out there with the same name but it's not a smart strategy if you want to grow your audience.

How do I own my podcast name?

Go to the website of any domain registrar — you can simply search online for "domain registrar" if you don't already have one in mind. Enter your podcast name in the registrar's search bar to see if you can register the domain. If your podcast name is more than 2 or 3 words, you might also try a shortened version.

Should I copyright my podcast name?

This is sometimes called your brand collateral. Trademarking these elements helps you protect your work and maintain control over your content. Your podcast title is the most important, but you may also consider trademarking your logo, artwork and tagline, if you use one.

Do I need a copyright for my podcast?

Using any portion of copyrighted material for a podcast without permission may be copyright infringement if an exception or limitation on the copyright owner's rights does not apply. Fair use is one such limitation and discussed further below. It would be wise to secure the rights before using any copyrighted material.

Can you get sued for a podcast name?

If you created it on your own and it is your original work, your podcast and your feed is an intellectual property asset that you own and you created, so you can sell as much of it as you want. Your last choice, which is not really a good one for anyone, is to get into a legal dispute as to who owns the name.

Do podcasters make money?

Sponsorships are the most common way podcasters make money. This is when the podcast promotes the sponsor during the show. You probably hear your favorite shows plug their advertisers a few times in every episode. How much you earn from a sponsor depends on the number of downloads your episodes earn.

Do podcasters use their real names?

Your real name is already taken If you have a more common name, it's possible that someone might already be podcasting with it. This is a case where it makes sense to podcast under a pen name, especially if your name is a significant factor in the podcast name or overall brand.

How do I protect my podcast?

Legally Protecting Your Podcast You should always check whether the name of your podcast is in use by anyone else, or if it's already been trademarked. If it hasn't, you'll want to trademark your name yourself. Doing this prevents brand dilution, which is important as you grow an audience and expand your reach.

Do podcast names matter?

Choose a name that is easy to spell and pronounce If the show's name is unappealing, listeners may ignore everything else you have to offer. It's much more effective to choose a name that communicates what your podcast is all about so listeners know what they're getting into right away!

Is the word podcast trademarked?

Between February March 10 and 25, 2005, Shae Spencer Management, LLC of Fairport, New York filed a trademark application to register the term "podcast" for an "online prerecorded radio program over the internet".

What happens when a listener searches for a term or keyword in a podcast directory?

When a listener searches for a term or keyword in a podcast directory, they'll be presented with a “ranked” number of options. Most podcast directories (including iTunes/Apple Podcasts, which is comfortably bigger than all the rest combined) won't search through your shownotes, subtitles, etc.

Why are descriptive podcast names so easy to find?

Descriptive podcast names are immediately identifiable to their target audience. And they're easier to find because they perform better in searches.

Is it bad to call a podcast a preexisting podcast?

Even using a very similar name to a pre-existing podcast can be a bad call, regardless of whether that show's still active or not.

Can you put podcast in your name?

Using the Word “Podcast” in Your Name. There's no harm in putting the word “podcast” in your show title. But it can be a little redundant. When someone is searching a podcast directory for new content, every result they get is a podcast. Of course, a name like “The [your topic] Podcast” can still work really well.

How to Name Your Podcast?

These are the topics we'll cover in this one-stop-shop guide on how to name a podcast.

Listen to Some of the Best Podcasts Right Now

To help you narrow down your options on a podcast name, we've compiled a list of five fantastic free podcasts with physical, mental, and emotional wellness ideas, the latest health research and advice, and overall upbeat vibes.

Conclusion

There is no one-size-fits-all solution here in terms of how you should proceed with naming your podcast. It all depends on you, your topic, and the type of podcast you want to produce.

What are some examples of podcasts?

Some examples of this can be seen in popular podcasts like: 1 Dissect – Dissect is a music podcast whose host breaks down the musical theory and inspirations behind popular music. A typical episode length is 45 mins to an hour, using the word ‘Dissect’ conveys a show that is in-depth and provides well thoughtout ideas. 2 This Week in Tech – A much more straight forward podcast name, this show lets audiences know exactly what they can expect and what it’s about. 3 Murder Minute – With a typical length of 30 minutes, this podcast is made for audiences on a short commute or wanting a quick fix of true crime drama.

What is a pod save America?

Pod Save America is a News podcast that addresses current political stories in the US. The name plays on the phrase ‘God Save America’, the play on words hints at it’s satirical nature whilst also showing they are discussing serious topics.

Why is the podcast called Philosophy Podcast?

This is a philosophy podcast that is to bring philosophical ideas to bigger audience. The punctuation in the name is important as philosophy is traditionally a very dry subject and the name, punctuated with an exclamation mark shows that there is a lighter passionate side to this podcast.

What is no such thing as a fish?

No Such Thing as a Fish is a weekly British podcast series produced and presented by the researchers behind the BBC Two panel game QI. The topics are weird facts and features the like of which feature on the show QI. This name is less descriptive, and you don’t instantly know what the show is about. However, it grabs your attention and makes you curious to find out. Once you know it makes perfects sense.

Do you have to change the name of your podcast?

Similarly, there might be situations where you need to change the name of your podcast. Under such circumstances, it is crucial to not lose on your audience base and retain them. The best idea is to always come clear and explain the need for the change to your listener. This helps the podcast gain more traffic.

Can you use a pseudonym on a podcast?

Your name will henceforth always have the tag with your podcast, which can compromise your privacy at any time. On the other hand, using a pseudonym saves you from that but opens up newer problems. Listeners often do not take these podcasts seriously, making it imperative for creators to have a fanbase.

1. Think About The Audience

First and foremost, make sure whatever name you choose will resonate with your listeners. You probably already have a good idea of your audience persona, so consider what that person will expect to see as the title of their new favorite podcast show.

2. Choose A Descriptive Title for Your Podcast

Next, remember that your podcast title should describe what your show is about. While poetic or mysterious names can seem appealing to you, remember: the more accurate your podcast title is, the more easily your prospective audience will be able to find you on Apple Podcasts or wherever else they're looking for audio content.

3. Structure Your Show Name Like A Brand

Regardless of if you’re creating an official company name podcast or if your show is a personal endeavor, it’s best to treat your podcast professionally from the get-go.

4. Pick A Name That Will Be Easy To Remember

Next, it’s impossible to overstate the importance of making your podcast title memorable.

5. Avoid Annoying Grammar Pitfalls

This is a big one. You don’t want to distract or turn off potential audience members by using irritating grammar mistakes, such as:

6. Come Up With A Show Title You Love

Don’t forget that whatever title you choose, you’ll be stuck with it for a good long while. Of course, podcast rebranding is possible—and even common—but if you can help it, it’s a good idea to start out with a name you plan to keep.

7. Do Your Research

Next, pull up your favorite search engine and research other podcasts in your chosen niche. Before you settle on your brilliant podcast name idea, it’s important to make sure no one’s already taken it.

Why is subtle hint fun?

And then it’s up to you to click and see what it’s all about. The subtle hint is fun because the names are often memorable and interesting.

Why do podcasts have an eponymous title?

An eponymous title works really well if you’re trying to build your brand and establish your expertise. If your website and social media for your business use your own name, an eponymous podcast would extend your brand in a cohesive way.

What does a descriptive name mean in a podcast?

A descriptive name tells listeners exactly what your podcast is about. It doesn’t have to describe everything your podcast might cover. But your listener should have a good sense of your topic just by reading your name.

Why do people use their own names?

In fact, one of the benefits of using your own name is that it gives you some freedom to try different topics or pivot in the future. If you aren’t sure exactly which direction you’d like to go, this can be an especially freeing choice. Instead of your name, you could also choose to use your business name.

Does Tim Ferriss have a podcast?

Tim Ferriss’s entire brand has been built under his name, so it makes sense that his podcast would do the same. The Life Coach School Podcast: This podcast uses its business name instead of the host’s name (master coach Brooke Castillo).

Can you have a podcast without a name?

Many podcasts grow and change over time, and your name doesn’t have to be permanent. My best advice is to brainstorm, choose your favorite, and commit. Because without a name, you’ll be stuck with no podcast at all.

Can you change your podcast name?

A sneaky secret about your podcast name. This may feel like a huge decision right now, but the truth is that podcast names are easy to change as your show evolves. Maybe your topic evolves, or your show format. Or maybe after 15 episodes (and some audience feedback), you come up with a better name. That’s totally fine!

How to Name Your Podcast

A tricky question, huh? When coming up with your podcast name ideas list, you want to consider a few factors. The process can feel daunting but, it doesn't have to be. Try to make it fun and enjoy the process of using your creativity to name your show.

5 Tips for Picking the Perfect Podcast Name

There's no perfect system for choosing your podcast name, but these tips can help the process be more stress-free. Take a look!

How to Come Up with a Podcast Name

You will keep all of the above in mind to come up with a podcast name:

100 Podcast Name Ideas List

Now, to get you started, we've compiled a podcast name ideas list showing 100 cool and clever podcast names. If you find a name you like, don't forget to check if it's available including the domain name.

What are Podcast Name Generators?

As the name implies, it's a generator of podcast names. It's a tool you use to help come up with names for your podcast show.

Common Questions About Picking a Podcast Name

Checking podcast name availability is critical. You want to make sure you don't have the same name as another podcast.

What Should My Podcast Name Be?

I hope this article has helped provide some direction with how to name your podcast.

Generated podcast names

Or this "Weekly conversations with the chess world's best players and educators about their lives, careers, and best practices."

Topic of your show

The name of your podcast revolves around the topic of your show. It can be plain or playful depending on your tone but it should always be clear what the podcast is about.

Target audience

Is there a popular jargon or phrase within your target audience? Think about it. You can use that to come up with a catchy title for your podcast.

Keyword Research

SEO is one of the most powerful ways to make your podcast more searchable. Research keywords in your niche and build your podcast name around those.

1. Make it short and punchy

This doesn’t have to be the time to get too clever or funny. Sometimes keeping it simple and getting straight to the point is your best bet. It obviously depends on the tone and topic of your show though, keep that in mind.

2. Use a common phrase or a pun

This relates a lot to your target audience. Is there a common phrase in your niche? You could use that for the name of your show. A lot of podcasts also use puns. It might be a bit harder to come up with a good one but you could potentially strike gold.

3. Make it searchable

SEO plays a massive part in the searchability of your show so keep that in mind while crafting your name. Research relevant keywords in your niche and try to include at least 1 in your podcast name.

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