Free Podcast Launch Checklist PDF (2025)
Ensure nothing is missed with this comprehensive pre-launch checklist.
Podcast Launch Checklist
What is a podcast launch checklist? (And why you need one)
A podcast launch checklist is a comprehensive list of tasks you need to complete before publishing your first episode. It covers everything from technical setup to content preparation to marketing. Think of it as your roadmap to a successful launch.
The checklist typically includes tasks across several categories:
- Technical setup - Choosing a hosting platform, setting up your RSS feed, submitting to directories
- Content creation - Recording your first episodes, writing show notes, creating transcripts
- Branding - Designing cover art, creating a website, setting up social media
- Marketing - Building an email list, planning launch announcements, reaching out to potential listeners
A good launch checklist helps you think through all the details that go into launching a podcast. It ensures you don't forget important steps, helps you prioritize tasks, and gives you a sense of progress as you check items off. Many podcasters find it helpful to work through the checklist over several weeks or months before their launch date.
Why do podcasters need one?
Launching a podcast involves many moving parts, and it's easy to overlook important steps. A checklist ensures you don't forget critical tasks like submitting your RSS feed to Apple Podcasts, creating cover art that meets size requirements, or setting up your website. Missing these steps can delay your launch or create problems later.
A checklist also helps you prioritize. When you see all the tasks laid out, you can identify which ones are most important and which can wait. This helps you focus your time and energy on the tasks that will have the biggest impact on your launch success.
Working through a checklist gives you confidence. As you complete tasks, you can see your progress and know you're getting closer to launch. This momentum can help you push through the final weeks when it's easy to feel overwhelmed or want to delay.
A checklist also helps you plan your timeline. You can estimate how long each task will take and work backward from your launch date to determine when you need to start. This planning helps ensure you're ready when you want to launch, rather than rushing at the last minute or having to delay.
What happens if you don't have one?
Without a launch checklist, you're likely to experience several problems:
- Forgotten tasks - Launching without submitting to all directories or creating social media accounts
- Rushed launch - Pressure to launch before you're ready, leading to technical issues or incomplete content
- Overwhelm - Everything feels equally important, making it hard to know where to start
- Missed opportunities - Not building an email list or creating promotional content before launch
Without structure, it's easy to get overwhelmed. When you don't have a clear list of tasks, everything can feel equally important, making it hard to know where to start. This can lead to procrastination or working on less important tasks while critical ones get delayed.
These missed opportunities can make it harder to get initial traction and build momentum. A checklist helps you see the big picture and make strategic decisions about your launch.
How to use this template
Step 1: Download the checklist
Get the PDF and print it out or keep it open on your computer as you work through your launch preparation. The checklist is organized by category, so you can tackle related tasks together.
Step 2: Review and customize
Review all items to understand what's included. Some tasks might not apply to your situation, while others might need to be customized. Add any additional tasks that are specific to your show or goals.
Step 3: Set your timeline
Set a target launch date and work backward. Estimate how long each task will take, and create a timeline that ensures you complete everything before your launch. Give yourself buffer time for unexpected delays.
Step 4: Track your progress
Check off tasks as you complete them. This visual progress helps you stay motivated and see how close you are to launch. If you're working with a team, share the checklist so everyone knows what needs to be done.
Step 5: Focus on essentials
Don't feel like you need to complete every single item before launching. Some tasks can be done after launch, while others are essential. Focus on the critical items first (hosting, RSS feed, cover art, first episode) and tackle the rest as you have time.
Step 6: Keep it updated
Use the checklist as a living document. As you work through it, you might discover additional tasks or realize some items aren't necessary for your show. Update the checklist to reflect your actual needs, and consider saving your customized version for future reference.
Launch with confidence
Download the launch checklist and ensure nothing is missed as you prepare to launch your podcast.