Guide to Standing Out
In Africa’s fast-growing audio industry, launching a podcast is no longer enough. Podcasting has become one of the most popular forms of media consumption, offering a wide variety of content to audiences across the world. From storytelling and interviews to educational discussions and entertainment, podcasts serve different purposes depending on their focus. However, not all podcasts are equally engaging or successful. Some capture the attention of listeners and build a loyal audience, while others struggle to maintain interest.
With thousands of shows flooding platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Afripods, the real question is: What makes a podcast truly great? At APVA, we sat with award-winning Nigerian podcaster Rodney Omeokachie, creator of The Young God, to decode the creative DNA behind unforgettable podcasts. If you’re looking to grow your listener base, build a loyal community, and create an unforgettable brand, this is your blueprint.
- It Starts With Purpose, Not Popularity
Too many aspiring podcasters focus on trends or celebrities. Great podcasts begin with purpose. Rodney didn’t start his podcast for fame—he launched it to support his business and eventually discovered his voice along the way. Ask yourself:
- What unique perspective do I bring?
- What conversations do I want to spark that nobody else is having?
- How will I add value to the listener’s life?
Your podcast isn’t just content—it’s your lens on the world.
- Develop a Signature Style That’s Unmistakably Yours
Podcasting is more than hitting “record”—it’s storytelling, strategy, and soul. Rodney emphasized the need to stand out from the crowd, especially in a saturated market. The three pillars he swears by:
- Packaging – Start with a distinctive name and cover art. Avoid clichés. A good title is memorable and search-friendly.
- Delivery – Your tone, cadence, and personality must shine. Whether you’re solo or interviewing, your vibe is what keeps people hooked.
- Content – Touch on things no one else is brave enough to say. Bring your perspective. Listeners connect with honesty, depth, and vulnerability.
“Your personality is your power,” Rodney says. “People come for the topic, but stay for the host.”
- Prioritize High-Quality Sound and Storytelling
Poor audio kills great ideas. Great podcasts balance sound clarity with emotional impact. Rodney urges creators to master:
- Clean audio: Invest in a decent mic and learn basic editing.
- Editing for impact: Cut out fluff, amplify key points, and use music/soundbeds sparingly but strategically.
- Emotional texture: Your episode should make people feel something—whether it’s laughter, discomfort, clarity, or inspiration.
“Create experiences that make people want to re-listen,” Rodney says.
- Solo Episodes Win—Here’s Why
Interviews are great, but solo episodes are where your expertise shines. According to Rodney:
- They’re faster to produce – No guest coordination needed.
- They show depth – You’re forced to prepare and deliver with clarity.
- They build loyalty – Listeners bond with you, not your guest list.
His highest-performing episodes are often solo—and he recommends all podcasters challenge themselves to create more of them.
- Spontaneity + Consistency = Long-Term Impact
Rodney debunks the myth that consistency equals uniformity. In fact, overly rigid formats can bore your audience. Instead:
- Be consistent with your release schedule.
- Be spontaneous with your content approach, topic angles, and tone.
This keeps things fresh—for both you and your audience.
- Your Title and Artwork Matter More Than You Think
Your title is your first impression—make it unforgettable. Avoid names that are already saturated or difficult to search. Similarly, your cover art should:
- Reflect your personality and vibe
- Be visually striking even at thumbnail size
- Offer a “visual promise” of what listeners can expect
Skip the Canva template. Great packaging can determine whether a random listener hits play or scrolls away.
- Tools and Tactics to Grow Your Listener Base
Growing a podcast isn’t just about good content—it’s about smart strategy. Rodney recommends:
- Repeat strong lines – If you say something profound, say it again.
- Plan like a strategist – Know your episode structure before hitting the record button.
- Think for the ear – Podcasting is an audio-first medium.
- Create emotion – Surprise. Conflict. Intimacy. Make people feel something every episode.
- Promote smartly – Use short quotes, audiograms, and visuals to drive curiosity and clicks.
Bonus: The Four Essentials of a Great Podcast
Rodney’s final litmus test? A great podcast does at least two of these four things:
- Teaches something new
- Offers solutions or frameworks
- Features a skilled, compelling host
- Presents a unique, non-replicable concept
If you hit all four? You’re not just podcasting—you’re building a movement.
See thoughts from Podcast listeners
While writing this article, research was conducted to ask podcast listeners:
“What makes a great podcast? And what makes them return to listen to a podcast?”
Here’s what they had to say:
“Ok! firstly, I think about the tone of the host. I listen to most podcasts because the hosts sound welcoming and fun. Also, the topics discussed and how they are discussed. The greatest podcasts are very people-centric with good vibes, not interview-like or excessively serious, and even when they are serious, they are not robotic.” — Miss. E
“For me, the simple answer is honesty. One thing that draws me to a podcast is the conversational dynamic between two people. I appreciate the honesty that comes with it—when hosts or guests share thoughts they might not normally express in everyday conversations.
Another aspect that captivates me is when a podcast tackles a popular topic but presents an unconventional perspective—something that challenges the status quo or offers a fresh, unpopular narrative. That kind of authenticity.” — Mr. T
“What makes a great podcast for me is a podcast that serves the people, and at the same time is exciting, not a boring show. Exciting elements, exciting guests, exciting stories. A podcast where the listeners can connect and relate with the host. What keeps me going to my favourite podcast is the story. If it’s boring, I won’t be there anymore.” — Miss. G
“Authenticity matters! I want to hear real people, not just someone reading a script or portraying what they are not.” — Miss D
Final Thoughts: Be the Voice They Can’t Ignore
At APVA, we believe Africa’s audio creators deserve platforms that elevate and empower. Rodney’s journey reminds us that podcasting isn’t about mimicry—it’s about mastery. Whether you’re new to the mic or rebranding an existing show, let these truths guide your next season.
Your podcast can be the next big thing from Africa—but only if it’s deeply, unapologetically you.
Ready to grow your podcast and connect with the continent’s best?
- Listen to the “What Makes a Great Podcast” conversation with the Young God.
- Join APVA
- Follow on Instagram | Facebook | X | Linkedin | TikTok |Threads |YouTube
- Want script inspiration? Visit the African Voices Script Repository to explore original African stories tailored for voice talents.
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