Naming your podcast is one of the most exciting steps in your journey as a creator. It’s that moment when your idea begins to feel real—when your voice, vision, and brand start to take shape. But it can also feel overwhelming. With millions of podcasts already in existence, how do you pick a name that stands out, feels true to your brand, and attracts the right audience?
The truth is, your podcast name is more than just a title—it’s your first impression. The wrong choice can hurt discoverability, confuse your audience, or even prevent your show from growing. Many creators rush this step, falling into avoidable branding traps.
The good news? By steering clear of the most common mistakes, you can craft a name that’s memorable, searchable, and perfectly aligned with your content. Below, you’ll discover 17 podcast naming mistakes to avoid—and practical fixes for each. Let’s make sure your podcast name becomes a magnet for listeners, not a roadblock.
1. Choosing a Name That’s Too Long
Overview: A long-winded podcast name may seem descriptive, but it’s often difficult for listeners to remember or search for.
Why It Hurts: Lengthy names get cut off on podcast platforms, look cluttered on cover art, and are harder to type into search bars. They dilute your brand’s clarity and make it harder for word-of-mouth recommendations to stick.
Quick Fix:
- Aim for 2–5 words max.
- Keep it short, punchy, and easy to recall.
- Use your tagline or description to explain, not your title.
2. Using Overly Generic Words
Overview: Names like “The Podcast Show” or “Talk Time” don’t tell listeners what your show is about.
Why It Hurts: Generic names vanish in a sea of competitors. They fail to differentiate your brand or capture attention. Worse, they often struggle with SEO, as generic phrases are highly competitive.
Quick Fix:
- Add specific keywords tied to your niche.
- Brainstorm terms unique to your topic, tone, or audience.
- Avoid filler words unless they add personality.
3. Copying or Imitating Existing Podcast Names
Overview: Taking inspiration is fine, but outright copying or closely mimicking another show creates confusion and credibility issues.
Why It Hurts: It makes your brand look unoriginal, risks legal trouble, and can cause your podcast to be mistaken for another.
Quick Fix:
- Research names on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google before deciding.
- Strive for originality while staying relevant.
- Test multiple variations until one feels both fresh and authentic.
4. Ignoring SEO and Keywords
Overview: Some creators pick names based only on creativity, forgetting that keywords help new listeners find them.
Why It Hurts: Without keywords, your podcast might never surface in searches—even if your content is excellent.
Quick Fix:
- Add a relevant keyword tied to your niche (e.g., “Marketing,” “Parenting,” “Wellness”).
- Use tools like Google Keyword Planner or even podcast directories for inspiration.
- Balance creativity with searchability.
5. Picking a Name That’s Hard to Spell
Overview: Complicated spellings or unusual word choices can frustrate listeners.
Why It Hurts: If people can’t spell your name, they can’t find your podcast. Mishearing or misspelling leads to lost traffic and lower discoverability.
Quick Fix:
- Choose simple, phonetic words.
- Avoid replacing letters with numbers (like “4U” instead of “for you”).
- Ask a friend to spell the name after hearing it—if they struggle, simplify it.
6. Hard-to-Pronounce Names
Overview: Names that are tricky to pronounce create awkwardness when listeners recommend your show.
Why It Hurts: Word-of-mouth is one of the most powerful marketing tools. If people hesitate to say your podcast name, you’re losing potential listeners.
Quick Fix:
- Pick names that flow naturally.
- Read it aloud and ask others to do the same.
- If pronunciation is unavoidable (e.g., a foreign word), provide clarity in your branding.
7. Failing to Check Trademark or Domain Availability
Overview: Choosing a name already trademarked or with an unavailable domain can halt your growth later.
Why It Hurts: You risk legal issues, rebranding headaches, and missed opportunities for building a cohesive online presence.
Quick Fix:
- Search the U.S. Trademark Office (USPTO) or your local equivalent.
- Check domain availability via registrars like Namecheap or GoDaddy.
- Secure matching social media handles early.
8. Overstuffing with Jargon or Buzzwords
Overview: Filling your podcast name with industry buzzwords can alienate listeners.
Why It Hurts: While you want to sound credible, too much jargon makes your show unapproachable. It may also age poorly as trends shift.
Quick Fix:
- Keep it accessible and timeless.
- Use simple, human language.
- Ask: Would someone outside my niche understand this?
9. Being Too Niche or Limiting Future Growth
Overview: A hyper-specific name may fit today but trap you later.
Why It Hurts: If your show evolves beyond the narrow focus, your name may feel irrelevant. For example, “The Keto Diet Podcast” limits you if you expand into general nutrition.
Quick Fix:
- Pick a name with room for expansion.
- Use broader terms or metaphors.
- Keep specificity for episode titles, not the show name.
10. Ignoring Your Target Audience’s Interests
Overview: Some creators name their show based on personal taste, ignoring what appeals to their audience.
Why It Hurts: A name that doesn’t resonate with your target listeners won’t capture attention, no matter how clever it feels.
Quick Fix:
- Define your ideal listener persona.
- Test names with real people in your audience.
- Align the name with their language, tone, and expectations.
11. Skipping Emotional or Memorable Impact
Overview: A podcast name should evoke curiosity, emotion, or connection—not indifference.
Why It Hurts: Forgettable names fade fast. Without emotional resonance, your podcast won’t stick in listeners’ minds.
Quick Fix:
- Use power words that spark curiosity or feelings.
- Tap into your niche’s core emotions (hope, humor, inspiration).
- Ask: Does this name make someone pause and smile?
12. Overcomplicating with Symbols or Punctuation
Overview: Adding symbols like &, #, or excessive punctuation may look stylish but cause confusion.
Why It Hurts: Not all platforms display special characters well. They also make verbal recommendations clunky.
Quick Fix:
- Stick with letters and simple punctuation.
- Save creativity for your artwork and tagline.
- Ensure the name works when spoken aloud.
13. Choosing a Name Disconnected from Your Content
Overview: Some podcasts use cool-sounding names that don’t reflect the show’s theme.
Why It Hurts: Misleading names disappoint listeners and increase bounce rates. Trust is broken if the content doesn’t match the title.
Quick Fix:
- Ensure the name hints at your topic, tone, or niche.
- Balance creativity with clarity.
- Ask: Does someone know what to expect just from the name?
14. Ignoring International Meanings or Translations
Overview: Words can carry unintended meanings in other languages or cultures.
Why It Hurts: A harmless word locally could be offensive or confusing globally. With podcasting’s global reach, this can damage your brand.
Quick Fix:
- Research translations of your chosen name.
- Use tools like Google Translate cautiously, or consult native speakers.
- Choose words with universal clarity.
15. Failing to Test Names with Real Listeners
Overview: Many podcasters fall in love with a name without testing it.
Why It Hurts: What feels catchy to you might confuse or bore your audience. Without feedback, you’re flying blind.
Quick Fix:
- Test 2–3 options with friends, fans, or online polls.
- Ask for first impressions—clarity, memorability, vibe.
- Listen closely to their reactions.
16. Forgetting How the Name Looks Visually
Overview: A great name can still flop if it doesn’t work well in logos or cover art.
Why It Hurts: Visual branding matters for credibility and clickability. If your name looks awkward in design, people may skip your show.
Quick Fix:
- Mock up simple cover art with your name.
- Check how it displays in small thumbnails.
- Keep it short enough to fit clearly on graphics.
17. Ignoring Long-Term Branding Strategy
Overview: Some names sound trendy today but won’t support your podcast’s long-term growth.
Why It Hurts: Rebranding later is costly and confusing for listeners. A short-sighted name can hold back sponsorships, SEO, and audience loyalty.
Quick Fix:
- Think 2–5 years ahead.
- Ask: Will this name still represent me as I evolve?
- Choose a timeless identity instead of chasing fads.
Conclusion
Naming your podcast isn’t just a creative decision—it’s a strategic one. The right name builds trust, strengthens your brand, and makes your show easier to find and remember. The wrong choice, however, can limit growth, confuse listeners, or force a painful rebrand down the road.
By avoiding these 17 podcast naming mistakes, you’re already ahead of the curve. Keep your title short, clear, searchable, and emotionally resonant. Test it with real listeners, visualize it in your branding, and ensure it has room to grow with you.
Remember: your podcast name is the first impression you make. Choose one that sparks curiosity, connects with your audience, and reflects the unique voice you bring to the mic.
Your show deserves a name that pops. Make it one your audience won’t forget.
