In my sophomore year of college, I discovered the pool hall on campus.

Those first few weeks were definitely intimidating because I knew nothing about playing pool.

There were many great players there. And over the next few months, thru observation and some friendly coaching, I learned a lot and became a semi-decent player.

I picked it up as a hobby, and the skill has come in handy over the years.

But one thing is clear: there's a difference between being a professional and doing something for fun.

I was reminded that every time I played one of these semi-professionals. You can tell they had put in the time and the hours to master their craft.

How do you treat your podcast?

Is it just a hobby or a strategic business asset?

I had a brutal realization last week while reviewing a client's podcast analytics.

They'd published 47 episodes.

Interviewed some impressive guests.

Spent thousands on equipment and editing.

And had very little business results to show for it.

A few leads, but no new clients.

Zero meaningful network expansion.

When I asked them about their podcast strategy, they looked at me like I was speaking Klingon.

"Strategy? I just talk to interesting people about my industry."

I've been there. My first 20-ish episodes of Podcast Junkies were just me having fun conversations with other podcasters.

No real plan.

No clear business objectives.

Just... talking.

And while those conversations were enjoyable, they weren't moving my business forward.

Here's the hard truth I had to learn (and now share with clients):

A podcast without a strategy is just an expensive hobby.

Every single episode needs to serve at least one of these purposes:

1) Strengthen your network (build relationships with strategic guests)

2) Showcase your expertise (demonstrate why you're the authority)

3) Expand your pipeline (attract potential clients and opportunities)

If an episode doesn't do at least one of these things? It's not worth recording.

I now use a simple filter before booking any guest or planning any episode:

• Will this person help grow my network or enhance my life in meaningful ways?

• Will this topic highlight my specific expertise?

• Will this conversation potentially bring in new business?

If I can't answer "yes" to at least one of these questions, I pass.

It sounds harsh, but your time is too valuable to waste on content that doesn't serve your business goals.

The podcasters who see real ROI aren't just creating content—they're strategically using their show as a business development tool.

They're intentional about every guest.

They plan every episode with clear objectives.

They treat their podcast like the powerful business asset it can be.

What about you? Is your podcast a strategic business tool or just a fun hobby?

(Both are valid choices—just be honest about which one you're building.)

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With gratitude,

Harry 'Strategic Podcasting' Duran

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P.S. When you're ready to transform your podcast from a hobby into a business growth engine, here's how I can help.