Should Financial Advisors Start a Podcast? Here’s How to Decide (and How to Test It Without Going All In)
Podcasts are everywhere. And you’ve probably heard someone say:
“You should totally start a podcast!”
But as a financial advisor, time is your most precious resource. So…
Is starting a podcast actually worth it?
And if so, how do you try it without spending weeks learning audio gear and editing software?
Let’s break it down.
Is Podcasting Worth It for Advisors?
Yes—but only if you’re clear on your goal.
Podcasting probably won’t lead to a flood of leads overnight. But it can help you:
Build trust with prospects before they ever meet you
Stay top-of-mind with existing clients
Educate your niche in a human, relatable way
Create content that can be repurposed into blogs, emails, social posts, and YouTube clips
It’s not about going viral. It’s about creating value in your voice—for the people you serve.
But Should You Start One? Ask These 5 Questions:
Do you serve a specific niche or community?
Podcasts thrive on specificity. “Retirement tips for everyone” is too broad. “Smart planning for small business owners” is focused.Do you enjoy talking and teaching?
If you like having real conversations or explaining concepts out loud, podcasting may feel natural.Can you commit to some consistency?
Doesn’t have to be weekly—but monthly or twice a month builds momentum.Do you have ideas and stories to share?
Think of your client conversations. Questions they ask. Mistakes you’ve seen. There’s your content.Are you okay with slow results at first?
Podcasting is a long-game trust builder, not a quick lead funnel.
If you answered yes to 3 or more, it’s worth testing.
How to Test Out a Podcast Without Going All In
Before you buy a mic or hire an editor, here are 3 low-risk ways to dip your toe in:
1. Record 3 “test” episodes using Zoom or your phone
Topics could be:
“3 Mistakes I See Small Business Owners Make with Money”
“Should You Pay Off Your Mortgage Early?”
“How I Helped a Client Retire 5 Years Earlier Than Expected”
Record them solo or with a colleague. Don’t overthink it—just talk like you’re explaining to a client.
Share with a few trusted people and ask:
“Would you listen to something like this regularly?”
2. Try guesting on other podcasts first
Look for shows in your niche—business, parenting, careers, or wellness—and pitch yourself as a guest.
You’ll practice your voice, get exposure, and build confidence without creating your own show.
3. Release a “mini series” instead of an open-ended show
Instead of committing to a weekly podcast forever, try:
“The Smart Retirement Series: 5 Short Episodes to Help You Retire with Confidence”
Market it to your email list, clients, and niche. See if people listen. See if they reach out. That’s your proof of concept.
Pro Tips to Make Your Podcast Effective (Even in Year One)
Pick a format and keep it simple: solo episodes, short interviews, or client Q&A
Use client questions to drive content: if one person asked it, 50 others are wondering
Repurpose every episode: turn the transcript into a blog, create quote graphics, clip 60-second videos for LinkedIn
Use a clear CTA: “If you want to talk more about this, visit [your site] or book a call.”
Don’t obsess over downloads: Obsess over who is listening, not how many
Podcasting Isn’t a Lead Magnet. It’s a Trust Machine.
Most people don’t reach out because of one blog post or ad. They reach out because they’ve been listening quietly for weeks, even months.
They trust your voice. They feel like they know you. And when the time is right, they raise their hand.
That’s the power of podcasting done right.
Final Thought: Try It. Don’t Marry It.
You don’t have to commit to a weekly podcast forever.
You just have to start sharing your voice in a way that helps the people you serve.
Start small. Be helpful. Be human.
If it clicks, you’ll know.
Want help brainstorming episode topics, structuring your mini-series, or writing intro scripts? I’ve helped other advisors launch—and I’d be happy to help you test it right.
