Is It Too Late to Start a Podcast? Roy Coughlan Doesn’t Think So
I sat down with Roy Coughlan, a serial entrepreneur turned podcast coach, to tackle a question that’s been floating around like last week’s leftovers: Is podcasting still worth it?
If you’ve been wondering whether the market is too crowded or if there’s even room for one more voice (yours), Roy has a clear answer: Yes, there’s room. Especially for podcasters who stick with it. Because while millions may have started podcasts, only a small percentage are still active. The rest? Abandoned somewhere between episode 10 and a pile of unrealistic expectations.
Roy’s message wasn’t just encouraging—it was refreshingly honest. He’s hosted six shows and coached countless others, so he knows both the magic and the mess behind the mic.
Why Podcasting Still Matters1. It's not just about downloads. Podcasting gives you a direct channel to build relationships, showcase your expertise, and create meaningful conversations. Think of it less like broadcasting and more like building trust at scale.
2. It opens doors without cold calls. Inviting your ideal customer to be a guest? That’s a warm introduction with zero awkward sales pitch. You're building relationships, not just content.
3. It makes you smarter. Hosting a podcast is like getting a masterclass every week. You ask the questions you’re curious about and walk away sharper than when you started.
4. It’s a ripple effect. Inspire one person, and who knows where that impact lands? Roy’s seen podcasting create unexpected waves of positivity—sometimes in ways he didn’t realize until much later.
5. You don’t need a massive audience to make a difference. If 50 people listen to your episode, imagine them sitting in a room, eyes on you. Feels different, doesn’t it?
Actionable Takeaways for Women Business OwnersSet realistic expectations. Success won’t happen overnight. Keep going past the “episode 10 slump” where most people quit. Podcasting is a long game, not a viral moment.
Use podcasting as a marketing tool. Record an episode that answers a client’s question. Share it ahead of a meeting to warm up the conversation and show your expertise.
Start simple. Don’t overcomplicate it with gear and gadgets. Roy’s been using the same plug-and-play mic for years. Focus on content, not cables.
Choose one platform to focus on. Rather than spreading yourself thin across every social channel, master one. Get good systems in place before expanding.
Be a good podcast citizen. Leave a comment. Share a show. If something helped you, support the creator. Positive feedback fuels better content and stronger communities.
Keep your podcast structure nimble. Things can (and will) go wrong. Use editing tools to clean up the audio and keep the process fun—not frustrating.
One Last ThoughtPodcasting isn’t just a marketing tactic—it can be a creative outlet, a learning platform, and a powerful tool for connection. Whether you’ve got a story to tell, a message to share, or just want to have better conversations, Roy’s advice is simple: Start where you are. Stay curious. And most importantly, enjoy the process.
Where to find Royhttps://www.facebook.com/roycoughlan
https://www.instagram.com/awakening.podcast/
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