Prologue
5 "Rules" for Great Podcast Artwork
Before people listen to you, they’re going to see you—your show art, episode art, logo, and anything else visually tied to your brand.
These elements act as your first impression, catching attention and setting expectations. Your visuals should instantly communicate your show’s tone, topic, and personality, standing out while staying authentic to your content.
Good design isn’t just decoration—it’s an invitation.
Both show and episode cover art for your podcast should be big and bold. What looks great on the canvas that Apple Podcasts and other podcast distributors require for podcast artwork (3000 x 3000 pixels is common) isn’t nearly as easy to read when it's compressed for the Apple Store or displayed on small screens such as mobile phones.
The "big rule" here is what you want simple graphics for your podcast cover art that will be easy to read on a small screen.
This means:
- Less is more.
- No more than five words on your podcast cover art. Anything more and the font size you’ll have to use to fit everything in will be too small to easily read on a mobile device.
- No "fancy" fonts. Avoid handwritten and "cursive" style fonts that make people work to figure out what you’re trying to say.
- No dark text on a dark background (or light text on a light background).
- No text on top of a photograph or complicated background.
Good luck!
Steal This Idea
Podcast Promo Idea
I saw this image and it caught my attention because of its message. Definitely something I can relate to.
Then I noticed the "book promo" at the bottom ...
Something like this would absolutely work for your podcast.
Need somebody to design and create the images for you? Talk to Nick Navatta. He can do everything on projects like this, from coming up to the concepts, to putting the graphics together.
Podcast Production
Behind the Scenes at HBO
This short video from HBO will make you appreciate the modern audio and video technology that's available to us.
When technology is limitless, we often default to convenience instead of imagination. Limited technology forced creativity like this ... and is still can, if you're willing to look at things in a similar way.
Here are three ideas to spark creativity in your audio work:
1. Limit Your Tools on Purpose
Sometimes, creative breakthroughs happen when you have fewer options. Try restricting yourself to a single microphone, a basic audio editor, or no processing. For example, record an interview with just one microphone. This limitation will push your ingenuity of how you do that interview—similar to how older productions had to make magic with less.
2. Add "Analog" Elements
Modern technology can feel sterile at times. Experiment with analog-inspired techniques to create something unique. Play with sounds from unconventional sources like old cassette tapes, vinyl records, or field recordings (e.g., footsteps in gravel or the hum of streetlights). Layer these textures under your dialogue or music to add depth and character to your production—it’s a nod to the gritty charm of earlier works.
3. Focus on Story Over Perfection
Instead of obsessing over pristine audio quality, lean into the imperfections to tell the story. Think about old radio dramas that relied on sound effects, vocal performance, and pacing to captivate listeners. Try crafting a segment where dialogue pauses are filled with ambient noise or sound effects that enhance the narrative.
For example, during a podcast about traveling, weave in subtle background sounds like distant train whistles or bustling city streets—these details make the listener feel the journey.
The takeaway? Don’t be afraid to embrace constraints and imperfections—they’re often the birthplace of truly memorable audio experiences.
When tech feels infinite, creativity will thrive if you set boundaries!
Want to go deeper? Listen to The 8-Sound Podcast Challenge.
Podcast Humor
When Everyone Has a Podcast
Podcasts have become the new business card. Everyone’s got one.
And let’s not forget the genres. From true crime to “two dudes talking about nothing,” there’s a podcast for every niche imaginable.
One guy wants you to debate conspiracy theories, another wants you to share your favorite sandwich toppings—it’s endless. They promise it’ll be “super chill” and “just a quick chat,” but you know deep down it’s three hours of recording while pretending your internet connection isn’t breaking up.
Watch this. It takes less than a minute.
True or False?
Classifieds
Riverside - Remote Recording Studio
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You can try Riverside free (no credit card is needed) and, if you like it, save 15% on any paid plan by using the coupon code BIGPODCAST.
The Wrap Up
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