Ready to launch your podcast in 2026? Today’s episode is a behind-the-scenes look at The Podcast Planning Challenge, happening next week. In this challenge, we’re taking a look at your podcast asset essentials, your content plan and strategy, and the overall blueprint for finally launching the podcast you’ve been dreaming about.
Clocking In with Haylee Gaffin is produced by Gaffin Creative, a podcast production company for creative entrepreneurs. Learn more about our services at Gaffincreative.com, plus you’ll also find resources, show notes, and more for the Clocking In Podcast.
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Join the Podcast Planning Challenge
Ready to launch your podcast? In our 3-day challenge, you’ll go from “just an idea” to a fully mapped-out podcast concept. We’ll walk through your show’s name, description, goal, and core assets—so you can stop overthinking and start podcasting with purpose.
Why Podcasting in 2026 Isn’t Just Smart—It’s Strategic
The business owners who are going to win in 2026 are the ones who know how to do three things well: communicate clearly, build trust consistently, and create content that compounds.
And there’s one format that does all three better than anything else: a podcast.
A podcast is more than a piece of content. It’s:
- Your top-of-funnel magnet that brings in the right people
- Your evergreen content library that works for you 24/7
- Your proof of expertise that builds trust without needing to “go viral”
- Your personal invitation into deeper work with you
I say this often, but it’s worth repeating: A podcast is a business asset. It allows you to lead with your voice, go deeper than social captions ever could, and build a connection with your audience that no algorithm can disrupt.
The Podcast Planning Challenge: What You’ll Actually Get
Whether you’re launching your first show or re-aligning an existing one, the Podcast Planning Challenge is your opportunity to get intentional. I’ve taken the strategic work I do inside my VIP Days and condensed it into a doable, three-day format that fits into your busy schedule.
Here’s what the challenge includes:
Day 1: Your Podcast Purpose & Positioning
We begin with clarity. What’s the goal of your podcast? Who is it for? What do you want it to do for your business?
We’ll also get into the practicals: choosing a name, writing your description, and starting to shape the identity of your show. This is where your idea starts to move from your head to paper.
Day 2: Your Content Strategy
This is where strategy meets structure. You’ll define your podcast categories (aka your main content pillars), brainstorm episode topics, and get familiar with legal music options and copyright-safe choices.
The goal here is to build a podcast content plan that connects directly to your business goals—so that every episode supports your growth.
Day 3: Scripts That Sell and Sound Like You
Now it’s time to write. We’ll create your show’s intro, outro, and trailer—essential pieces that set the tone for your podcast and help it feel real.
By the end of day three, you’ll walk away saying, “I’m actually doing this,” and you’ll have the exact next steps to move forward with confidence.
Plus, you get a complete workbook, helpful prompts, and access to the challenge all year long so you can revisit it anytime you need to reset or refine.
Why Now Is the Right Time to Start
There’s something powerful about going into a new year with a real plan—not just a resolution.
Launching a podcast doesn’t have to be overwhelming. You don’t need a studio setup or years of experience. You just need direction, support, and a clear path.
The truth is, most people never launch their show because they’re waiting to feel “ready.” But readiness isn’t a prerequisite—a plan is.
This challenge is your starting point. And it’s completely free.
For Current Podcasters: This Is Your Momentum Reset
Already have a podcast? Amazing. This challenge is still for you.
There’s nothing like revisiting your foundations with fresh eyes. The Podcast Planning Challenge can help you get back in alignment, clarify your messaging, and reset your content strategy heading into the new year.
Your Podcast Can Change Everything
If your Notes app is full of scattered episode ideas, if your audience is craving more depth from you, or if you simply want to stop depending on social media to show your expertise… this is your moment.
Let’s make 2026 the year you stop dreaming about podcasting and actually make it happen. Join the Podcast Planning Challenge today. It’s bite-sized, actionable, and built to get you results.
Find It Quickly:
Your podcast is a business asset (1:08)
Yes, you should start a podcast (2:05)
The Podcast Planning Challenge (2:33)
Now is the perfect time to plan your podcast (4:07)
Mentioned in this Episode:
The Podcast Planning Challenge: gaffincreative.com/challenge
Podcast Launch VIP Day: gaffincreative.com/podcast-launch
Connect with Haylee:
Soundboard Society: gaffincreative.com/soundboard
Instagram: instagram.com/hayleegaffin
