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Among the many factors that contribute to a podcast's success, the name emerges as the foremost ambassador of your content and brand identity.
A well-chosen podcast name not only captures the essence of your show but also sparks curiosity and leaves a lasting impression on potential listeners.
"Choosing a good podcast name is like choosing a name for your brand—it's a decision that will stick with you as you develop your personality and voice,” says our VP of Marketing, Alison Osborne, “A well-chosen name not only piques curiosity but also sets the tone for your content, making it a pivotal first step in a listener's journey with your podcast."
With over 5 million podcasts out there, a unique and catchy name is essential to make your show stand out in the crowd.
In this article, we'll explore eight tips to help you choose the perfect name for your branded podcast and provide real-life examples to inspire you.
Reflect on your podcast's purpose
Your podcast's name should clearly communicate what the show is about. It should reflect your content's core theme and value proposition. Consider what your brand represents, the message you want to convey, and the emotions you wish to evoke in your listeners.
Whether it's educational, entertaining, or inspirational, the name should align with your brand's image.
For example, TD Bank’s C-Suite podcast explores how cyber-attacks happen and what we can do to avoid them. In each episode, host Claudette McGowan, TD Bank’s Global Executive Officer for Cyber Security, sits down with C Suite leaders to discuss cyber challenges and ways to help people become more protected and resilient.
The title conveys what the podcast is about, while still remaining unique and memorable.
Keep it short and memorable
Short and catchy names are more likely to stick in the minds of listeners. Avoid long, complicated titles that are difficult to remember or pronounce. 75% of all podcast titles are 29 characters or fewer, according to Dan Misener of Pacific Content. Aim for simplicity and brevity to maximize recall and brand association.
We suggest saying the podcast name out loud several times to see how it sounds. This will help you gauge its flow, pronunciation, and potential resonance with your target audience. A name that rolls off the tongue smoothly is more likely to be remembered.
Here are examples of some short and sweet names that stand out:
- Sephora, #LIPSTORIES
- Heart & Stroke Foundation’s, The Beat
- Amdocs, The Great Indoors
- McDonald’s, The Sauce
Conduct keyword research
Conduct keyword research related to your podcast's topic to understand common search terms and phrases used by your target audience. Integrate relevant keywords into the podcast name, making it more discoverable on podcast directories and search engines.
We suggest identifying the main topics or themes of your podcast and integrating those keywords thoughtfully.
For example, CIBC’s Innovation Banking Podcast features leaders, entrepreneurs, experts, and venture capitalists about the changing dynamics of the North American innovation economy.
As a listener, when I see the name of CIBC’s podcast, I can quickly decipher whether or not I’m the target audience for this content and if it’ll be relevant to me.
Make it unique, but also clear
While it's essential to include relevant keywords, steer clear of overused or clichéd terms that might make your podcast name sound generic. Aim for originality and creativity to make your show memorable.
With that said, however, it is important to tread a fine line between originality and ambiguity. Your podcast name should clearly communicate the theme or focus of your show. It should be evident what your listeners can expect from your content. Avoid ambiguity or cryptic names that might confuse potential listeners.
For example, Rise and Grind by ZipRecruiter takes listeners into the minds of successful entrepreneurs. Hosted by Shark Tank’s Daymond John, this interview-based podcast offers valuable insights that empower the audience to elevate their own business ventures and the daily grind.
The name is original and catchy, while also to the point as it evokes the dedication and hard work required for entrepreneurial success. It’s also clearly a play on words for the common saying, “rise and shine,” so this alone catches the attention of potential listeners.
Check for trademark and domain availability
Before settling on a name, ensure that it's not already trademarked or used by another podcast. You can use resources like the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) website to search for existing trademarks.
You can also search on listening platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon Music to see whether or not podcasts with the same name exist.
Ideally, you want a domain name that matches your podcast's name. Check if the corresponding domain is available, as it’ll be essential for building a website or landing page to promote your podcast.
Get feedback
Don't be afraid to seek feedback from friends, colleagues, or your target audience.
Ask for their opinions on the name options you're considering. This external perspective can provide valuable insights and help you make an informed decision.
To do this, simply create a Google Form or some type of survey to get the opinions of your audience on which name they like best. Make sure to share it with a relevant audience, keyword here being relevant. If you’re asking individuals who aren’t your target audience, then you may receive inaccurate feedback.
Future-proof your name
As your podcast grows, you may expand your content offerings or shift focus slightly. Choose a name that allows for potential growth and doesn't limit your podcast's direction in the future.
While it might be tempting to use current slang or trendy words, they can quickly become outdated. Opt for a timeless name that will remain relevant and age well over the years.
BMW’s Changing Lanes is a great example. The expression changing lanes is two-fold: merging lanes and cutting-edge innovation. Fittingly, the podcast covers innovative technologies, designs, cars, engines, and more.
Consider your target audience
Understanding your target audience is crucial in creating a podcast name that resonates with them. Put yourself in their shoes and think about what would catch their attention and make them want to listen. Tailor your name to appeal directly to your ideal listeners.
When brainstorming, think of successful podcasts that have similar ideal listeners to yours. What do their titles convey? Are they short? Witty? Clear?
Free podcast name generators to kickstart brainstorming
Quill’s top 15 podcast names
We asked our team to rank their favorite podcast names. Here’s what they said:
We Regret to Inform You
“We Regret to Inform You" delves into the inspiring stories of successful individuals – like Hayley Wickenheiser, Pedro Pascal, and Missy Elliott – who faced overwhelming career rejection before achieving greatness.
The title references an opening line everyone dreads – and a line that (presumably) everyone has heard. Upon first glance, opening a letter or receiving an email that starts with “We regret to inform you” means bad news, but this podcast uncovers the invaluable insights hidden within rejection.
If Books Could Kill
“If Books Could Kill” explores popular nonfiction books shaping ideas in American culture and politics. In each episode, hosts Michael Hobbes and Peter Shamshiri take aim at "airport books" - those pop science or smart thinking titles often found in airport bookshops, which they humorously refer to as "the superspreader events of American stupidity."
Our team likes this one because it catches your attention with its cleverness while also giving the listener a good sense of what the show is about: “Often punny names can be cute but meaningless, but I think ‘If Books Could Kill’ does a good job of avoiding that trap.”
My Dad Wrote A Porno
"My Dad Wrote a Porno" was a wildly popular British comedy podcast hosted by Jamie Morton, James Cooper, and Alice Levin. The podcast featured Morton reading aloud chapters from "Belinda Blinked," an amateur erotic novel series penned by his father using the pseudonym Rocky Flintstone.
This title is a fan favorite because it is very descriptive and blunt – you know immediately what the show is about and what the tone of the show is.
Hardcore History
“Hardcore History” " is hosted by the imaginative journalist and broadcaster, Dan Carlin, who delves into the past and explores intriguing historical questions. Rather than offering traditional academic history, Carlin weaves thrilling narratives, comparing historical figures like Alexander the Great and Adolf Hitler, and imagining scenarios like Apaches equipped with modern weaponry.
The title is straight to the point and delivers on its listener promise: “Episodes range 4 hours upwards and are deep dives on historical topics – 'hardcore' and 'history.'”
Sounds Like a Cult
“Sounds Like a Cult” focuses on the modern-day "cults" that captivate our society. With a keen eye, the hosts analyze and dissect the influence of SoulCycle, Elon Musk stans, the Royal Family, spiritual influencers, and even Instagram itself. Each week, the podcast shines a light on a different fanatical group, aiming to answer the burning question: “Does this group sound like a cult, and if so, how deep does its impact run?”
Here’s why we love this name: “Once I heard someone mention this podcast, I immediately searched and downloaded a couple of episodes. I took this action purely because of the name. It does a great job at sparking curiosity and interest but also gives me a good base on what this show is likely going to be about. All these elements are qualities you want in a podcast name.”
The Pleasure is Ours
“The Pleasure is Ours” takes pleasure in debunking the worst life tips and advice that young men and women often encounter as they navigate through life. From work and relationships to entertainment and social media, this podcast fearlessly dissects and ridicules common misconceptions and misguided notions.
Here’s why we think the title sticks: “In this podcast, they pick apart "dumb" pieces of advice or classic saying, like "The Pleasure is Ours." I like the two-fold meaning of the title: a common saying and the show is a Trojan X iHeartMedia collaboration.”
Scamanda
“Scamanda” delves into the life of Amanda, a seemingly ordinary woman with an extraordinary secret. As a wife, mother, blogger, and devout Christian, Amanda's charm and positive outlook captivate her local community and global followers as she documents her courageous battle with cancer on her blog. However, the narrative takes an unexpected turn when investigative producer Nancy receives an anonymous tip about Amanda's blog, leading her on a journey to uncover a shocking truth.
This title is “catchy and makes you want to learn more. Plus, once you understand the show concept, the listener is in on the joke.”
Behind The Review
From one-star to five-star reviews, every review has a story behind it, and Yelp’s “Behind The Review” uncovers those stories.
The title is “descriptive enough to tell you what the show will be about it’s to the point and clear. Bonus: the entire name fits on listening apps.”
Tell Them, I Am
“Tell Them, I Am” is a captivating interview podcast hosted by Misha Euceph, showcasing diverse Muslim voices. The podcast delves into the profound impact of seemingly insignificant moments that shape our identities. Each episode reveals personal stories from a wide array of guests that are both relatable and universal, transcending cultural and religious boundaries.
“‘Tell Them, I Am’ can sound cryptic, but I feel like it induces curiosity. Once I knew the podcast was Muslim voices sharing unique stories, I was instantly hooked, and the title holds so much power.”
A Very Fatal Murder
"A Very Fatal Murder" is a hilarious and clever parody podcast produced by The Onion, satirizing the popular true crime genre. Hosted by the fictional New York City reporter, David Pascall, voiced by David Sidorov, the podcast follows his quest to find the perfect murder case to create an award-winning true crime podcast.
Here’s why the name stands out: “The title reads as a satirical play on titles of other crime documentaries. You know it's going to lean into similar tropes and the tone will be more comedic just from the title of the show.”
“Oysters, Clams, and Cockles”
“Oysters, Clams, and Cockles” is the #1-rated Game of Thrones and House of the Dragon podcast. Hosted by lifelong friends and TV fanatics Ross Bolen and Barrett Dudley, this weekly podcast is filled with laughs and exclusive listener hotline calls.
This title goes out to all of the Game of Thrones fans. “The name is a reference to the show that viewers will immediately understand. It outlines its niche right there in the title while making you feel like an insider for understanding.”
Metrics & Chill
Databox’s “Metrics & Chill” equips B2B leaders with proven strategies, frameworks, and valuable insights that drive predictable and effective growth while enhancing their Go-To-Market (GTM) strategy.
The title is “a clever play on words with the phrase "Netflix & Chill." This makes the name stand out since it's similar to a saying we know.” Secondly, the title makes it “hyper-clear what this podcast is about and therefore, who should listen. The ‘metrics’ signals that this podcast will be talking about data and numbers, likely relevant to marketers and sales professionals.”
You're Wrong About
“You're Wrong About” is an American history and pop culture podcast hosted by journalist Sarah Marshall. Each week, Sarah delves into the lives of people or events that have been misunderstood or misinterpreted in the public eye. The show seeks to challenge prevailing narratives and uncover the truth behind some of the most infamous media events.
The title stands out because it “sounds like the hosts are speaking directly to you. It also gives you a good idea right off the bat about what the podcast is about - revisiting old news stories that you got wrong.”
Huberman Lab
“Huberman Lab” explores how our brain and its intricate connections with our organs influence our perceptions, behaviors, and overall health. Host Dr. Huberman takes listeners on a journey through the wonders of neuroscience, discussing cutting-edge tools for measuring and modifying the functioning of our nervous system.
Coupling 'lab' with the host’s name evokes a sense of expertise. Additionally, the name has an imaginative quality that teleports you to the lab.
Rotten Mango
“Rotten Mango” explores the darkest corners of the criminal world. Hosted by a team of passionate and fearless investigators, the show delves deep into the psychology of killers and leaves no stone unturned when it comes to unraveling the details of heinous crimes.
As the name implies, despite the chilling subject matter, the podcast comes with a touch of comedy and sweetness to balance the darkness. “I have no idea what it’s about. [The name has] just enough to pique my interest to look into it. Turns out it’s a true crime podcast.”
What’s in a podcast name?
Choosing the perfect name for your branded podcast requires careful consideration and creativity. A well-crafted name has the power to captivate your audience, establish your brand identity, and set the tone for your content.
Remember, a great podcast name should be unique, relevant, and memorable, while also aligning with your brand's values and target audience. So, take the time to brainstorm, test, and refine your options, and let your podcast's name become a powerful catalyst for growth, engagement, and recognition.
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