So, this article was written on November 25th when we're starting to think about Christmas in all it's forms - including taking time off.
So, we want to talk about taking a break from your podcast.
There are a lot of podcasts that don't make any new content during August, and again during December, and we get a lot of questions about whether this is the right course or not.
Now, you will have heard us say this on a couple of occasions, but there are no firm rules on this.
If you feel that creating content during the summer (and festive) months might be a little too hard with everything else in your life jostling for your time and attention - it's fine to take a break.
What's unclear is whether or not podcast listening declines during the summer. From personal research, there is certainly a drop in business podcasts over the festive period in December, when people reset and spend time away from work.
So - the decision to take a break is a very personal one
If you do decide to take a break with your podcast, there are a couple of things that we'd like you to bear in mind..
First of all, plan ahead. Let the audience know.
Use the intro of your final episode before the break to announce that the podcast is going to be taking a break. If you can, tell the listener the specific date when it's going to be coming back - at the very least, the rough part of the month "...we'll be back at the end of September"
By doing this, you are strengthening the bond between you and listener. You are showing that you are thinking about them when you take a break and, by announcing it it feels, to the listener at least, that they are included in the process - and that increases their trust in you, and your content.
Also - and so many podcasters don't do this - keep marketing your podcast whilst you're away.
If you're in a position to be taking a break from your podcast, that must mean that you've got some episodes already published.
Just like we mentioned in another article - don't let them die because they're not the 'new episode'
Schedule some social media posts (with links!) reminder people about the great episodes that they can still listen to, whilst getting excited about when the new episode drops.
So - in summary...
Taking a break is fine, but keep the listener (fans!) informed and make sure that your podcast isn't out of sight, out of mind. Keep talking about it!