Solo vs. Co-hosted Podcasts: Pros and Cons

Deciding between a solo or co-hosted podcast? Here's what you need to know:

Solo podcasts:

You're in full control
Flexible scheduling
Build your personal brand
Simpler production
Risk of burnout
Limited perspectives

Co-hosted podcasts:

Dynamic conversations
Shared workload
Multiple viewpoints
Built-in support
Potential scheduling conflicts
Creative differences

Quick Comparison:

Aspect	Solo	Co-hosted
Control	Full	Shared
Scheduling	Flexible	Requires coordination
Workload	All on you	Split tasks
Content	One perspective	Multiple angles
Production	Simpler	More complex
Brand building	Personal	Shared

Choose based on your goals, time, and topic. Both can succeed with the right approach.

Remember: It's not just about the format. Focus on creating value for your listeners, no matter which path you take.

What is a Solo Podcast?

A solo podcast is a one-person show. You're the host, producer, and everything in between. It's just you, your mic, and your listeners.

Solo podcasts work best when you've got:

Deep knowledge on a topic
A unique perspective
Personal stories to share
Advice to give
A niche you're passionate about

Take Dr. Will Cole's "The Art of Being Well." As a functional medicine expert, he uses his solo show to share health insights directly with listeners.

Content Types for Solo Hosts

Solo podcasters have plenty of options:

Content Type	Description	Example
Monologues	Share your thoughts	"Stassi" by Stassi Schroeder
Expert advice	Offer tips	"The Art of Being Well" by Dr. Will Cole
Storytelling	Narrate experiences	"Mona-Vated" by Mona Vand
News commentary	Discuss current events	"Barely Filtered" by Matt Bellassai
Educational	Teach a subject	Various educational podcasts

With solo podcasting, you're in charge. You decide the content, episode length, and release schedule. It's freeing, but it also means all the work is on you.

"Starting a solo podcast is a fantastic way to get the ball rolling and see if podcasting is something you're actually interested in doing long-term." - Dear Media

Don't think you're limited to talking to yourself. Many solo hosts, like Violet Benson of "Almost Adulting", bring in guests to mix things up.

Starting a solo podcast? Here's what to consider:

Topic: Choose something you know and love.
Format: Decide on episode style and length.
Equipment: Get a good mic ($50-$200) and headphones (about $100).
Schedule: Set a consistent release schedule.
Content planning: Brainstorm episode ideas in advance.

Solo podcasting lets you share your voice with the world. Just be ready to put in the work and keep your content engaging.

What is a Co-hosted Podcast?

A co-hosted podcast is when two or three people run the show together. It's like chatting with friends, but with mics and listeners.

Co-hosting spices up podcasting:

Different voices keep things interesting
Hosts can split tasks based on what they're good at
Talks feel more natural, less rehearsed

It's not just about more people talking. It's about creating a vibe that makes listeners feel part of the gang.

Content Types for Co-hosts

Co-hosted shows work great for:

Format	What It Is	Who Does It Well
Debates	Hosts argue different sides	"The Infinite Monkey Cage"
Interviews	Multiple hosts quiz guests	"The Body Protest"
Banter	Casual chats on random stuff	"Dear Hank and John"

These formats let co-hosts bounce off each other, share different views, and mix personalities.

"Co-hosting has a special place in my heart", says Melissa Guller, host of Wit & Wire.

But it's not all smooth sailing. You need to:

Be clear about who does what
Have a co-host agreement to avoid fights
Sync up schedules
Play nice with others

When it clicks, co-hosting can make your podcast awesome. It mixes skills, keeps you on your toes, and gives listeners more to enjoy.

The secret sauce? Finding the right partner. Look for someone who:

Loves the topic as much as you do
Clicks with you on air
Brings something new to the table
Shows up and puts in the work

Get the right co-host and a solid game plan, and you'll create a podcast that's better than what either of you could do alone.

Benefits of Solo Podcasting

Solo podcasting gives you total control and flexibility. Here's why going solo might be your best bet:

Full Control Over Content

As the only host, you're the boss. You choose topics, set the tone, and decide how deep to go. No compromises needed.

"Content freedom is key. One week you're diving deep into a niche topic, the next you're sharing personal stories. It's all up to you."

Flexible Scheduling

Recording solo means no calendar juggling. Got a midnight idea? Start recording. Early riser? Knock out episodes before breakfast.

Pro Tip: Many solo podcasters batch record. You can create a month's worth of content in one go, giving you breathing room between sessions.

Building a Personal Brand

Solo podcasting connects you directly to your audience. Each episode showcases your expertise and personality.

Pat Flynn of "Smart Passive Income" used his solo podcast to become an online business expert. His podcast became the foundation of his personal brand, leading to speaking gigs, books, and a loyal following.

Simpler Production

Solo podcasting means no multiple audio tracks or co-host coordination. This streamlined process often leads to faster publishing.

Production Step	Solo Podcast	Co-hosted Podcast
Recording	One person, one schedule	Multiple schedules to align
Editing	Single audio track	Multiple tracks to sync
Publishing	Quick decisions	Potential back-and-forth

Solo podcasting isn't just easier—it's often faster too. You can go from idea to published episode with fewer hurdles.

Drawbacks of Solo Podcasting

Solo podcasting isn't all sunshine and rainbows. Let's look at the main challenges you might face:

Risk of Burnout

As a solo podcaster, you're the whole show. Host, producer, editor, marketer - you name it. It's a lot, and it can wear you down fast.

"Recording, editing, and promoting a podcast can be a real grind, especially when you're not seeing immediate results."

To avoid burning out:

Plan your content ahead
Batch record episodes
Get help with editing or marketing

One-sided Viewpoints

When it's just you talking, your listeners only get one perspective. This can make your show feel a bit narrow.

How to fix this:

Bring in guests now and then
Ask listeners for their thoughts
Look into different opinions on your topics

Coming Up with Ideas

Constantly creating new, interesting content is tough when you're the only idea person.

Problem	Fix
Running out of topics	Keep an idea list
Limited experiences	Check out what's trending
Feeling stuck	Ask your audience what they want

No Built-in Support

Without a co-host, you're on your own. No one to bounce ideas off or share the work with. It can feel lonely and stressful.

To help with this:

Join podcasting groups
Find a podcasting buddy or mentor
Team up with other solo podcasters for cross-promotion

Benefits of Co-hosted Podcasting

Co-hosting a podcast can be a game-changer. Here's why teaming up might be your best move:

Lively Conversations

Two heads are better than one, especially when it comes to keeping listeners hooked. Co-hosts can:

Spark dynamic discussions
Share laughs and banter
Offer different viewpoints

It's like eavesdropping on friends having a great chat.

"You might really enjoy and benefit from the input of a co-host and your conversations with guests might be livelier, better informed ... funnier even." - Serena Gay, CEO of Made4U Podcasts

Shared Workload

Podcasting isn't just talking into a mic. There's a ton of behind-the-scenes work. With a co-host, you can divide and conquer:

Task	Who Does It
Research	Host A
Editing	Host B
Social Media	Both
Guest Booking	Alternate

This setup helps you avoid burnout and keeps your show running like a well-oiled machine.

Different Viewpoints

Co-hosts bring their own flavors to the mix:

Varied life experiences
Unique skills and knowledge
Fresh takes on topics

This diversity leads to richer discussions and more well-rounded content for your listeners.

Built-in Support

Podcasting can be tough. Having a partner means you've got:

A cheerleader when you're feeling down
A sounding board when you're stuck
Someone to high-five when you nail it

"When shared, your lows are not as low, and your highs are doubled, making this one of the main benefits of having a co-host on your podcast." - We Edit Podcasts

Drawbacks of Co-hosted Podcasting

Co-hosting a podcast isn't all sunshine and rainbows. Here are some challenges you might face:

Content Clashes

When two minds meet, it's not always pretty. Co-hosts often disagree on:

What to talk about
Who to invite
How to structure episodes

These creative tussles can slow you down and create friction.

Schedule Struggles

Finding a time that works for everyone? It's a headache. Kane Baron, co-host of The Podcasters Podcast Podcast, says it straight:

"Scheduling can be more difficult with a cohost, both your diaries have to be taken into account, this can be even more of a challenge when interviewing guests."

This juggling act can lead to messy release schedules, rushed recordings, and missed guest opportunities.

Money Matters

As your podcast grows, you'll need to tackle the cash question:

Issue	What to Ask
Revenue Split	Equal? Based on work?
Expenses	Who pays what?
Financial Plans	Save or spend?

Without clear agreements, money can turn friends into foes.

Dependence Dilemma

Teamwork is great—until it's not. Co-hosting means:

Your show needs both hosts to show up
One no-show can tank an episode
You're only as good as your weakest link

If your partner flakes or loses steam, your podcast could take a hit.

To dodge these bullets, set clear expectations from day one. Write it down, talk it out, and be ready to meet in the middle. A great co-hosted podcast isn't just about on-air chemistry—it's about off-air harmony too.

Comparison Table

Let's break down solo vs. co-hosted podcasting:

Aspect	Solo Podcasting	Co-hosted Podcasting
Content Control	Full control	Shared decision-making
Scheduling	Flexible	Requires coordination
Workload	All tasks alone	Split responsibilities
Audience Engagement	One-on-one feel	Dynamic conversations
Idea Generation	Self-reliant	Collaborative
Brand Building	Personal brand	Shared podcast identity
Production	Simpler setup	More complex
Viewpoints	Single perspective	Multiple angles
Support System	Self-reliant	Built-in support
Financial Aspects	Keep all earnings	Split revenue
Risk Factors	Potential burnout	Reliance on others

Your choice depends on your goals, skills, and resources. Want full control? Go solo. Love collaboration? Co-host.

Both formats can succeed. The Jordan Harbinger Show thrives solo, while My First Million shows how co-hosts can create engaging content together.

Consider:

Your talking style (alone vs. with others)
Time commitment
Topic benefits from multiple voices?
Long-term podcast goals

Bottom line? Pick the format that lets you create the best content for your audience.

How to Choose Your Format

Picking between solo and co-hosted podcasts isn't simple. Here's what to think about:

Your Podcast Goals

Match your format to your aims:

Want to build a personal brand? Go solo.
Looking for dynamic discussions? Try co-hosting.

Time and Resources

Be real about what you can handle:

Solo podcasting needs more prep but offers flexible scheduling.
Co-hosting splits the work but requires coordination.

Content and Topic

Some topics work better in different formats:

Topic Type	Format	Why
Deep analysis	Solo	Focused exploration
Debates	Co-hosted	Multiple viewpoints
Storytelling	Solo	Intimate listener connection
Interviews	Either	Depends on your style

Audience Preferences

Know your listeners:

Ask them what they like.
Check out what works for your competitors.

Jeremy Enns, CEO of Counterweight Creative, says:

"Your format can (and should) play a big role in that differentiation."

Don't worry - you're not stuck with one format forever. Many podcasters try different styles in their first 20 episodes.

Pick a format that fits your strengths and keeps you excited. Your enthusiasm will come through, whether you're solo or with a co-host.

Tips for Solo Podcasting

Solo podcasting gives you full control, but it's not easy. Here's how to make your show stand out:

Building Your Brand

Your podcast = your personal brand. Make it pop:

Pick a niche
Be consistent
Share your story

Gary Vaynerchuk, VaynerMedia CEO, says:

"I believe that podcasting is grossly undervalued, and I think all of you should start a podcast in the same way that all of you are starting vlogs. Go do it, figure it out. It's even easier, it's your voice."

Making Regular Content

Solo podcasting can be a grind. Stay on track:

Set a doable schedule
Batch record episodes
Use a content calendar

Keeping Listeners Hooked

No co-host? You've got to work harder to engage your audience:

Use storytelling
Mix up your format
Get listeners involved

Debbie Millman, Design Matters host, on consistency:

"I often say that I don't find the time to do things, I make the time to do things."

Remember: Your unique voice is your superpower. Use it.

Tips for Co-hosted Podcasting

Co-hosting a podcast can be fun, but it's not always easy. Here's how to make your show great:

Finding the Right Co-host

Don't just pick your best friend. Look for someone who:

Loves the topic as much as you do
Has different skills than you
Can handle disagreements well

Rob Marsh from The Copywriter Club says:

"A co-host with a different view makes our show more interesting."

Try posting a public call for co-hosts or ask people you know.

Setting Clear Roles

Avoid confusion. Decide who does what:

Write down your show goals
List each person's jobs
Figure out how to handle money and ownership

Ashley Hamer from Taboo Science warns:

"Find someone who's good at what you're not, is responsible, and handles conflict well."

Think about signing an agreement to cover everything.

Working Well Together On-Air

Make your show sound great:

Plan together using tools like Google Drive
Chat before you start recording
Use an outline to stay on track
Listen and respond to each other

Tip	Why It Helps
Use hand signals	Stop interruptions
Set up instant messaging	Talk silently
Don't fear disagreements	Makes better conversations

Remember: Your unique voices make your show special. Let them shine.

Conclusion

Solo or co-hosted podcast? It's not a one-size-fits-all choice. Your decision depends on your goals, resources, and preferences.

Solo podcasting gives you full control. It's great for building a personal brand and offers more flexibility. But watch out for burnout and idea fatigue.

Co-hosted shows bring diverse viewpoints and shared workload. They can be more sustainable long-term. But you'll need to handle potential conflicts and shared responsibilities.

When choosing your format, think about:

Your podcast goals and audience
Available time and resources
Content type and expertise
Your strengths and weaknesses

Remember: Success isn't just about format. Focus on creating value, engaging your audience, and improving your skills.

The podcast world is always changing. Both solo and co-hosted shows can succeed. Be open to experimenting and adapting as you go.

FAQs

What are the disadvantages of solo podcasts?

Solo podcasts can be tough. Here's why:

It's all on you to come up with ideas
You're the only voice, so views can get one-sided
You might burn out from doing everything yourself
Keeping listeners hooked without other voices is hard

Should you have a cohost for a podcast?

It depends on what you want. Here's the deal:

Pros of co-hosting:

You share the work
You get different viewpoints
You have built-in support

Cons of co-hosting:

Schedules might clash
You might disagree on content
You have to split the money

Todd Cochran, CEO of Blueberry Podcasting, says:

If you want one, that's great, but you really don't need one.

So, both ways can work. Think about your goals, time, and content type when you decide. Solo or co-hosted, you can make it big if you put in the work.