If you’ve ever taken a break from your podcast and then struggled to return, you’re not alone. Podcast guilt is real, but it’s also unnecessary.
Podcasters pause for all kinds of reasons: business peaks, burnout, illness, or just needing a moment to reset. The problem isn’t the pause, it’s the unrealistic expectation that consistency has to mean never missing a beat.
Your audience isn’t looking for perfection. They’re looking for connection. And that starts with you being honest about where you’re at.
If you’re planning your return, keep it simple. A short, honest update episode is enough. You don’t need a polished rebrand or a 45-minute tell-all. Just start where you are.
Here are a few ways to make it easier:
- Keep your comeback episode short. A quick 2-minute episode saying you’re coming back is good enough. You don’t have to explain yourself if you don’t want to!
- Switch to fortnightly episodes if weekly feels too much
- Batch two or three episodes ahead when you’re in flow
- Get support with editing and uploading
- Use a tool like Trello or ClickUp to stay organised
But before jumping back in, ask yourself: Why did I stop? Was it time, motivation, overwhelm, or something else? Reflecting on what caused the pause will help you create a podcasting rhythm that fits where you’re currently at.
You also don’t have to do this alone. Consider getting support, even if it’s just someone to help you map out a realistic plan. Having systems and accountability in place can make all the difference.
And if you need a permission slip, this is it. You haven’t lost your audience. You haven’t lost your voice. You haven’t failed.
You’re just taking the next right step.
If you’re ready to return but want help figuring out how to make it sustainable, I offer 1:1 support with editing, strategy, and ongoing management tailored to your business. Head to my contact page if you’d like to get in touch and learn more.
For more on this, tune into the latest episode of Podcasting for Business Owners where I share examples from real podcasters and simple ways to relaunch your show without the stress. Listen here.