Last updated on May 9, 2025

Your co-host wants to include unauthorized content. How can you address this breach of trust in your podcast?

Discovering that your co-host has introduced unauthorized content into your podcast can be a jarring experience. As a podcaster, you understand the importance of trust and respect within your partnership, as well as with your audience. Unauthorized content not only risks legal repercussions but can also damage the reputation you've worked hard to build. It's crucial to handle this situation with care, ensuring that your podcast remains a trusted source of entertainment or information for your listeners.

1 Assess Impact

Before confronting your co-host, take a moment to assess the impact of the unauthorized content. Consider how it affects your podcast's integrity and legal standing. Unauthorized content can range from copyrighted music to unverified information, each with its own set of consequences. Understanding the severity will guide you in addressing the issue effectively and deciding the necessary steps to rectify the situation without escalating tensions unnecessarily.

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2 Open Dialogue

Initiate a conversation with your co-host to discuss the breach of trust. Approach the topic with openness and a desire to understand their perspective. It's important to communicate your concerns clearly and listen to their reasoning. Sometimes, a co-host may not be aware of the implications of using unauthorized content. A constructive dialogue can lead to a mutual understanding and a commitment to adhere to content guidelines in the future.

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Alex Sanfilippo

Podcaster & Founder of PodMatch.com 💜
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Hear your co-host out, but at the end of the day, this is a no-go. You cannot include unauthorized content from a legal perspective, and your podcast will end up getting deleted/removed from directories. It's not something that's up for discussion. Your cohost needs to know this/hear it. And, if they remain persistent, you need a new cohost.

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3 Set Boundaries

After discussing the issue, it's time to set clear boundaries and content guidelines. Outline what is acceptable to include in your podcast and what isn't. This might involve creating a shared document that lists approved sources and types of content. By setting these boundaries, you help prevent future incidents and ensure that both you and your co-host are on the same page regarding the podcast's content.

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4 Implement Checks

To prevent future breaches, implement a system of checks and balances. This could involve reviewing each other's content before publishing or having a third party listen to episodes pre-release. The key is to create a process that ensures all content is authorized for use. This not only protects your podcast legally but also maintains the trust of your audience.

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5 Rebuild Trust

Rebuilding trust with your audience after a breach involves transparency and accountability. Address the issue publicly if it has affected your listeners, and explain the steps you're taking to prevent future occurrences. Your audience will appreciate your honesty and commitment to maintaining the integrity of your podcast. This step is crucial in re-establishing the trust that may have been damaged.

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6 Move Forward

Finally, learn from the incident and move forward. Use this experience to strengthen your podcast's operating procedures and co-host relationship. Remember, mistakes are opportunities for growth. With clear communication and firm guidelines in place, you can continue to create content that both you and your listeners can trust.

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Your co-host wants to include unauthorized content. How can you address this breach of trust in your podcast?

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1 Assess Impact

2 Open Dialogue

3 Set Boundaries

4 Implement Checks

5 Rebuild Trust

6 Move Forward

Podcasting

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