Let’s get real for a second: You don’t have to release a new podcast episode every single week. Yep, I said it. The idea that you need to churn out 52 episodes a year to stay relevant? It’s a myth. And honestly, it’s a recipe for burnout. Here’s the truth: Your podcast can thrive without being tied to a relentless weekly schedule. In fact, taking a season hiatus or even running reruns might just be the smartest move you can make.
There’s this long-standing belief in podcasting that consistency means weekly episodes, no exceptions. But let me ask you this: Who made that rule? Sure, for some shows—like daily news podcasts or time-sensitive content—it makes sense. But for most of us? It’s not the secret to success. In fact, some of the most impactful podcasts out there don’t stick to a rigid weekly schedule. They focus on delivering value, not volume.
“Weekly is not the secret. Consistency matters, but that doesn’t mean you have to be a slave to the calendar.”
Think about it. If you’re scrambling every week to get an episode out just because it’s “what you’re supposed to do,” your content will suffer. And your audience? They’ll notice. Instead, what if you focused on creating episodes that truly resonate—even if that means fewer of them?
One of the best ways to break free from the weekly grind is to adopt a seasonal approach. Think of your podcast like a TV show. Seasons give you the flexibility to plan, produce, and deliver content in focused bursts. You can dive deep into a specific theme or topic, then take a break to recharge and plan your next season. Your audience will appreciate the structure—and you’ll avoid burnout.
Here’s the kicker: Platforms like Apple Podcasts even support seasons, making it easy for your listeners to navigate your content. And if you’re worried about losing momentum during a hiatus, don’t be. Use that time to engage with your audience in other ways—social media, email newsletters, or even live events.
Another underutilized strategy? Running reruns. Yes, reruns. If you’ve been podcasting for a while, chances are you’ve got some evergreen content in your back catalog. Why not reintroduce those episodes to your audience? Not everyone has heard them, and even those who have might appreciate a refresher. Plus, reruns give you a chance to take a breather without leaving your audience hanging.
Here’s a pro tip: Frame your reruns as “greatest hits” or “fan favorites.” Add a new intro to explain why you’re revisiting the episode and what listeners can expect to gain from it. It’s a simple way to keep your feed active while you regroup.
The bottom line? Podcasting isn’t about cranking out episodes for the sake of it. It’s about delivering value to your audience. Whether that means releasing fewer episodes, taking a season hiatus, or running reruns, the key is to be intentional. Your audience will stick around if they know you’re focused on quality—and they’ll respect you for taking the time to get it right.