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Why You Should Call Your Podcast a “Show” (And Stop Confusing Your Audience)

Here’s the deal: everybody knows what a “show” is. It’s familiar. It’s approachable. It’s universal. But the same can’t be said for “podcast.” Sure, you and I know what a podcast is. But not everyone does. And if your goal is to reach as many people as possible, why would you risk alienating potential listeners with a term they might not understand? Let’s unpack this.

The Problem with “Podcast”

Podcasting is an incredible medium, but the word itself? It’s still a barrier for some people. There’s a whole segment of your potential audience that hears “podcast” and thinks, “Do I need a special app for that? Is it only on Apple? Can I listen on my phone? What even is a podcast?” And here’s the kicker: they don’t care enough to find out. They’ll just move on.

Now, contrast that with the word “show.” Everyone knows what a show is. It’s something you watch or listen to. It’s entertaining, informative, or both. It doesn’t require an explanation. It’s instantly accessible. And that’s exactly what you want your content to be.

Why “Show” Works Better

When you call your podcast a “show,” you’re doing three important things:

1. Breaking Down Barriers: You’re removing the confusion and making it clear that your content is for everyone—not just the tech-savvy or podcast-obsessed.
2. Expanding Your Reach: By using a term that’s universally understood, you’re opening the door to a wider audience. People who might have skipped over your “podcast” will be more likely to check out your “show.”
3. Focusing on the Content: At the end of the day, it’s not about the technology—it’s about the value you’re delivering. Calling it a “show” shifts the focus to what really matters: your content.

How to Make the Switch

If you’re ready to start calling your podcast a “show,” here’s how to do it effectively:

1. Update Your Branding: Change your podcast’s title, description, and promotional materials to reflect the new terminology. For example, instead of “The Marketing Podcast,” go with “The Marketing Show.”
2. Educate Your Audience: If you’ve been using “podcast” for a while, let your audience know why you’re making the switch. Explain that it’s about making your content more accessible and inclusive.
3. Be Consistent: Use “show” across all platforms and communications. Consistency is key to building recognition and trust.

The Bottom Line

Your audience doesn’t care about the technology behind your content—they care about the content itself. By calling your podcast a “show,” you’re removing barriers, expanding your reach, and focusing on what really matters: delivering value to your audience. So stop overthinking it. Make the switch. And watch your audience grow.

At The Podcast Partnership, we help creators like you build shows that engage, inspire, and deliver real results. Ready to take your content to the next level? Let’s chat.