How to Plan a Podcast Series (Without the Stress Spiral)

Sometimes, one episode just doesn’t cut it.
A recent client had a great topic that deserved more time, so we helped them turn it into a 3-part podcast series. The result? More engagement, more profound member value, and increased sponsor interest.

Planning a series might sound like more work, but it can save time—and pay off in big ways.


Insight of the Week: The Power of the Podcast Series

A podcast series isn’t just a content strategy—it’s an engagement strategy.

Here’s why it works:

  • You dive deeper into a topic members care about.

  • You build momentum across episodes.

  • Listeners know what to expect—and come back for more.

  • Sponsors love the opportunity to show up multiple times.

Real Example:
PCNA recently turned a technical subject—Lipoprotein(a)—into a three-part educational podcast. Thousands listened, Continuing Education (CE) credits were offered, and sponsors jumped on board. That's a real-world example of using audio to educate, retain, and generate revenue.

Try This:
Pick a topic your members are already asking about. Break it into 3–5 mini-topics. Map out how each episode builds on the last. Don’t overthink it—start simple and iterate.


Tool Spotlight: Notion


If you’re not using Notion yet, this might be your new favorite planning tool.

What It Does:

  • Helps you organize multi-episode series

  • Keeps guest outreach, scripts, and publishing checklists in one place

  • Lets you collaborate with teammates or volunteers in real-time

Pro Tip: Use Notion templates to speed up series planning and reduce pre-launch chaos. The less stress you have before recording, the better your episodes will sound


Sponsorship Tip: The “2 + 1” Formula

Want to make your next sponsorship package more appealing and more valuable?
Here’s a tested format:

  • Episode 1 & 2: Sponsor runs ads (pre-roll or mid-roll)

  • Episode 3: Sponsor joins as a guest to share genuine insights—not a sales pitch

This format gives them brand visibility and subject matter credibility. It's not an infomercial—it’s a thoughtful conversation. And it helps build trust between your sponsor and your members.


Resource Corner:

We’re diving into the book Sponsor Magnet by Justin Moore—worth a look if you’re developing or pitching podcast sponsorships. Want a shortcut? Check out his interview with Nathan Barry (ConvertKit founder)—it's packed with practical insights.


Wrap-Up:

Podcast series aren’t just smart—they’re sustainable. They give you more content mileage, create stronger audience habits, and give sponsors a reason to say “yes” more often.\


Final Note:

A well-planned podcast series pays off in listener engagement and sponsorship opportunities. Need help mapping out your first series? Let’s strategize together! Schedule a free strategy session at www.podcasting4associations.com.

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