Distribution and Launch Strategy: Don’t Just Hit Publish—Make It a Moment
Here’s the worst-kept secret in podcasting:
You only get one launch.
So don’t waste it.
A podcast launch should feel like a premiere, not a shrug. Done right, it becomes a magnet for early fans, a growth accelerator, and a signal to the algorithm gods that your show deserves attention.
This article shows you how to launch a podcast with impact, covering setup, submission, teaser content, marketing, and momentum — step by strategic step.
Step 1: Start With Your Hosting and RSS Feed
Before you hit record, choose your podcast host — this is where your episodes live, and what powers your RSS feed.
Top Podcast Hosting Platforms:
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Buzzsprout – beginner-friendly, great analytics
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Captivate – growth-focused, includes marketing tools
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Transistor – perfect for multiple shows or brands
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Libsyn – rock-solid, industry OG
Once you’ve uploaded your first trailer or teaser, your RSS feed goes live.
Note: Your RSS feed is what connects your podcast to platforms like Apple, Spotify, and Google.
You only need one host — it pushes your show everywhere.
Step 2: Submit to Directories — Early
It takes time for directories to approve your podcast (especially Apple). Submit at least one week before your official launch.
Submit to:
Bonus: Use Podnews.net to discover even more submission destinations.
Step 3: Record a Teaser + Trailer Episode
Your trailer is your audible elevator pitch. It should:
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Be 1–3 minutes long
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Introduce the host + show purpose
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Tease what’s coming
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Ask listeners to follow or subscribe
Upload your trailer before your official launch date — this activates your RSS feed and helps get approved by directories.
Step 4: Pick a Launch Format That Builds Momentum
Forget launching with just one episode.
The 3-Episode Launch Formula:
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Episode 1: A strong, clear intro to your world
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Episode 2: A guest or topic that validates your format
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Episode 3: A deeper dive that hooks subscribers
Why three? It gives new listeners something to binge — and algorithms like engagement clusters.
Want extra juice?
Launch with 5 episodes, then drop weekly.
Step 5: Create a Pre-Launch Buzz Plan
Most podcasts flop because they start promoting too late.
Begin hyping your podcast 2–3 weeks before launch.
Pre-Launch Marketing Checklist:
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Create a waitlist or landing page (e.g. Podpage or ConvertKit)
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Share behind-the-scenes content on social
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Announce your launch date and trailer
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Run a “coming soon” giveaway (free consultation, merch, etc.)
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Post teaser clips, audiograms, or quotes
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Encourage early subscribers to follow + set notifications
This creates anticipation — not just awareness.
Step 6: Leverage Your Network (Without Spamming)
Your first 100 listeners are likely already in your orbit. Treat them like early investors.
Ask:
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Friends to rate/review your show
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Guests to share their episode
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Colleagues to post clips or quotes
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Newsletter readers to subscribe + forward
But make it easy: provide copy + links + assets they can share with one click.
Step 7: Treat Your Launch Week Like a Campaign
You’re not done once the episode drops. Launch week is a campaign, not a finish line.
What to do:
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Drop fresh content every day (reels, carousels, quotes, tweets)
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Run a limited-time CTA (“Subscribe in the first 72 hours to be entered to win…”)
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Post reviews and social proof
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Go live or host a virtual launch party
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Tease the next 3 episodes so they know what’s coming
Pro tip: Send a personal thank-you note to early supporters — they’ll become your first superfans.
Bonus: What NOT to Do
Avoid these rookie mistakes:
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Launching with zero followers or email list
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Using “Episode 0” as a placeholder intro (it usually tanks)
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Promoting only on one platform
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Ignoring analytics in week one (track retention + downloads)
Your goal is not just to launch, but to land — with impact.
✅ TL;DR – How to Launch a Podcast With Impact
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Pick a solid hosting platform and activate your RSS
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Submit to all major directories early
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Record a short, strong trailer episode
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Launch with 3+ episodes for bingeability
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Build buzz 2–3 weeks before release
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Treat launch week like a campaign
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Engage your network with share-ready content
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Track data and refine for episode 4+
Joe Wehinger (aka Joe Winger) has 25 years of entertainment experience and 10 years in business working with Golden Globe winning, Emmy Winning, Hall of Fame inductee entertainment legends and business titans around the world. In addition to being a Directors Guild member and a certified Executive Producer (specialist in investor agreements, tax incentive, private financing), he runs the global digital marketing agency United Digital for over 12 years helping projects around the world create life-changing profits and positive impact. Today he’s studying how AI will interrupt and evolve our future.
