I did a survey of 300 podcast listeners to find out what annoys them. And I’m using that report as the basis of revealing this list of podcast pet peeves listeners have that lead them to rage quit episodes, and how you can earn their loyalty.
Want to get hold of the report to read if yourself? You can get it at https://podmastery.co/peeves
If you prefer to listen to or watch the episode, you can do so by clicking the artwork below.
If you want to swap notes on what’s actually landing with your own audience, that’s exactly the kind of thing we get into in my podcast accountability group.
Audio is King: The Non-Negotiable of Podcasting
First and foremost, listeners are intolerant of subpar audio quality.
Told ya.
Like, a lot.
In more than one article and in several LinkedIn posts. Maybe now you’ll listen? Ha!
According to the survey data I managed to gather, bad audio was the undisputed champion of all the complaints. And it was a more convincing bout than the one between Mike Tyson and a YouTuber.
If you’re hoping to cultivate a genuine connection with your audience, investing in quality sound equipment is a must.
Audio pet peeves include:
- Background noise reminiscent of a bustling pub or, worse, a Wetherspoons.
- Inconsistent volume, with hosts whispering one moment and shouting the next.
- Echoes that transport listeners to the depths of a well.
How to remedy this: Prioritise purchasing a decent microphone and create a quiet recording space. Basic audio editing to minimise background noise and balance volume levels can significantly enhance the listener experience. Remember, when it comes to audio, ‘good enough’ isn’t ever good enough.
Trim the ‘Verbal Fat’
Rambling is annoying.
The phrase ‘get to the point’ emerged frequently among the listener respondents, as they pointed to a desire for ‘value’ and relevance.
What they hate:
- Stream-of-consciousness monologues, mistaken for authenticity.
- Filler words (‘um,’ ‘uh,’ ‘you know’) detract from the core message.
How to remedy this: Structure your content and stick to essential points. If an anecdote or quip wouldn’t make it into everyday conversation on your topic, reconsider its necessity in the episode.
Editing can maintain natural flow.
Use it.
Hook Them. Don’t read out a novel to them!
Our listeners voiced frustration with overly long introductions, drawing comparisons to cinematic pretentiousness.
A brief, engaging intro sets the tone without testing their patience.
What they hate:
- Long-winded personal backstories.
- Excessively detailed episode previews.
How to remedy this: Craft intros under 60 seconds that engage them with a succinct hook while previewing the episode’s benefits.
Save your personal history for a separate episode. That way interested listeners can opt in if they want.