This is Virtual Paul with something I've been thinking about lately… You don’t need 52 episodes a year. You don’t have to publish every week. What you do need is a plan—one aligned with what your podcast is actually supposed to do.
A prevailing myth in podcasting says consistency means publishing weekly—forever. But what if that definition of consistency is costing you?
The truth is, while 34% of global podcasts publish every 3–7 days, and 39% opt for a biweekly rhythm, regularity doesn’t require a weekly treadmill. It requires intentionality. And here’s the thing many creators overlook: consistency in value delivery will outperform consistency in calendar conformity.
“Very few people can produce 52 great episodes a year. The Podcast ‘Season’ is a great way to predictably deliver quality.”
— The 12 Laws of Podcasting, Law #10
Smart podcasters are increasingly shifting to seasonal releases. Done right, this model gives you time to:
Buzzsprout’s 2025 insights show that while episodic formats still dominate, trends reveal a rise in seasonal-style drops that prime your audience for impact—without burning you out. Scheduled reruns are also gaining traction, especially when packaged as “listener favorites” or thematic retrospectives.
“Irregular scheduling is one of the top 10 reasons listeners stop following a show.”
— 2025 Podcast Industry Report
The real win in podcasting isn’t about hitting publish 52 times a year—it’s about earning that follow. It’s about creating such relevance and resonance that people choose to come back, season after season.
And here’s the frictionless truth: when your episodes do drop—whether in January or July—are they worth someone’s time? Did you plan them around what your audience needs, not just what your calendar demands?
“Know what you want your podcast to 'do' before you record your first second.”
— Law #1, The 12 Laws of Podcasting
If you’re feeling the weight of weekly deadlines, pause. Reassess. Your show can have seasons. Your audience will appreciate it—as long as you deliver with purpose.
High-quality production in seasonal bursts, powered by strategic reruns and supported with your audience’s listening data, is not lazy. It's leadership.
Because remember, they come for the content—but they stay for your voice. Don’t let burnout silence you.
If you want a show that builds connection—not just episodes—PodcastPartnership.com can help you build your next season with clarity and impact.
What’s your take? Do you publish weekly, seasonally, or somewhere in between? Let’s talk strategy.