Breaking into the world of podcasting or voiceover work can be exciting, but also overwhelming. Whether you’re just starting out or feeling stuck mid-way, chances are you’ve made a few mistakes—and you’re not alone.
In a recent APVA community session, experienced creatives like Dr. Shahenda, Claire, Akumu, and Gracie (The Host) came together to share real, raw insights about what it takes to thrive in the industry—and what to avoid if you don’t want to burn out or give up too soon.
Here are some of the top mistakes African podcasters and voiceover artists make and how you can do better.
1. Doing Too Much, Too Soon
One of the first mistakes many podcasters make is setting an unrealistic publishing schedule. Maybe you promised a weekly episode without realizing how much time scripting, editing, recording, and promoting really takes. It’s admirable but it’s not always sustainable.
“Don’t set a rhythm you can’t maintain,” Claire warned. “It’s okay to start small. If once a month is all you can commit to, that’s fine. Just be consistent.”
The same goes for voiceover artists who jump into gigs without fully understanding the craft. Many rely solely on having a “good voice,” without investing in technique, vocal control, or emotional delivery.
“Your voice needs grooming,” said Dr. Shahenda. “Even if you have a naturally great voice, that’s just the starting point.”
2. Choosing Quantity Over Sustainability
This lesson applies across the board, for both podcasters and VO artists.
For podcasters, this often looks like setting unrealistic episode schedules (like weekly drops) without the time or structure to support it. For VO artists, it can mean taking on too many projects at once or agreeing to deadlines that leave no room to rest or review your performance.
“We’ve all burned out at some point,” said Claire. “But it’s often because we set a rhythm we couldn’t realistically maintain.”
“Start at your own pace,” Dr. Shahenda echoed. “Even in voiceover work, know what your voice can handle. Don’t strain to sound like someone else or push through when you’re hoarse.”
Being consistent doesn’t mean being constant—it means showing up reliably, even if it’s once a month.
3. Going It Alone
Another common pitfall? Trying to do it all yourself.
For podcasters, this can mean taking on the roles of host, editor, producer, marketer, and everything in between. Eventually, the workload becomes overwhelming and burnout follows.
“I had to slow down after I had my baby,” Claire shared. “But because I have an amazing co-host as Akumu, we were able to balance things. You don’t have to do this alone.”
The solution? Collaboration. Whether that means having a co-host, a virtual assistant, or even just a friend who helps with episode notes or uploads, delegating can keep you sane.
“Even if it’s not a co-host, get help,” Akumu added. “Interns, VAs just because you can do it all doesn’t mean you should.”
3. Partnering Without Complementary Skills
Let’s say you do get a co-host. Another mistake is choosing someone just because you like them, without considering whether your skills actually complement each other.
“Many people start a podcast with a friend, and both of them are creatives,” said Akumu. “But if no one’s managing schedules, recording times, or structure, the show won’t last.”
In Claire and Akumu’s case, their partnership works because their strengths differ. Claire is more organized and project-focused, while Akumu thrives creatively and manages social media. This balance is what helps their show run smoothly.
So if you’re teaming up, make sure it’s with someone who brings what you lack.
4. Being Afraid to Pivot
Many podcasters and creatives fall in love with a format or idea and then stick to it even when it’s not working. Whether it’s an outdated structure, a flat delivery style, or a podcast theme that no longer resonates, clinging too tightly can hurt your growth.
“Listen to your data. If your audience wants something different, be ready to pivot.” said Akumu.
Iteration is key in any creative journey. Growth happens when you’re willing to adjust.
5. Neglecting the Business Side of Things
A major oversight in both fields is ignoring contracts, rights, and payment structures.
Dr. Shahenda stressed that many African voice artists give away their voice, sometimes for major commercial use without proper licensing agreements or usage clauses.
“Understand your worth. Your voice has value whether it’s for a jingle, audiobook, or character narration.”
Podcasters face a similar risk, especially when collaborating without discussing intellectual property, brand ownership, or revenue shares.
Don’t let friendship or inexperience stop you from protecting your work.
6. Letting Imposter Syndrome Take Over
When you scroll through social media and see other podcasters with massive followings, branded merch, or live shows, it’s easy to feel like you’re not good enough.
But comparison is a trap.
“Imposter syndrome is real,” said Akumu. “The best way to fight it is to stay busy creating. When you’re creating, you have less time to doubt yourself.”
“Make mistakes, it means you’re learning,” added Claire. “Even top creators mess up. What matters is what you do next.”
7. Thinking You Need Everything Perfect Before You Start
Perhaps the most important message of the session? You don’t need the perfect mic or studio to start.
“I’ve been podcasting for over five years,” Gracie shared, “and sometimes I still use my smartphone to record. Don’t let gear be the reason you delay.”
You can upgrade along the way. What matters most is starting and staying consistent.
8. Forgetting the Power of Community
Whether you’re a podcaster, voice actor, or spoken word poet, the creative journey can be lonely. But it doesn’t have to be.
“Sometimes, what you need is not just help with editing or scripting,” said Gracie. “You need encouragement. You need people who understand the road you’re walking.”
That’s where communities like APVA come in. Surrounding yourself with others who are learning, growing, and sharing can fuel your momentum and push you forward.
Final Words: You’re Already Ahead
If you’ve already started even with just one episode or one sample demo, you’re doing better than many people who are still stuck on the idea phase.
“What’s done is done,” said Dr. Shahenda. “But keep reminding yourself why you started. This is an art. Keep practicing. Keep learning.”
So don’t stop now. There are tools, people, and communities ready to support you. Whether you’ve made mistakes or feel behind, remember this:
You don’t have to be perfect. You just have to keep going.
Want to connect with others on this journey?
Join the APVA community, a growing network of African podcasters, voice artists, and spoken word creatives. It’s free, it’s supportive, and it’s built with you in mind.
Visit apva.africa to join us today!
