The past year we've lost some great people in the podcasting family. Neil Guilarte and Todd Cochrane both died suddenly with no warning. If you're not prepared, you leave your family in a lurch adding to the stress after you die. I bring on The Podcast Lawyer Gordon Firemark to explain some of the ins and outs (Gordon doesn't do wills and such, but can explain the process). As law change based on location you may want to hire someone locally, or use an online tool that adjusts to your location.
Steps for Your Podcast
Decide what you want to happen
Should the podcast continue with another host?
Should it be archived but left online?
Should it be shut down completely?
Document the details
Write down where your podcast is hosted (Buzzsprout, Transistor, Captivate, etc.), how billing works, and where domains (like makemypodcastbetter.com) are registered.
Store this info in 1Password and label the entries clearly (e.g., “Podcast Hosting Login,” “Domain Registrar Login”).
Name a podcast successor
If you want someone (like a co-host or trusted colleague) to take over, spell that out in your written instructions.
If not, designate who should cancel services, shut down billing, or make an announcement to your audience.
Leave a final message option
Some podcasters pre-record a message that can be released if they pass away, thanking listeners and explaining what happens next. This is optional but thoughtful.
? Action Plan for You Right Now
Print & store your 1Password Emergency Kit with your master password.
Write down your podcast instructions (continue, archive, or delete).
Share both with a trusted person (or lawyer).
Include this in your will as part of your estate plan.
Ready To Start and Grow Your Podcast?
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Takeaways:
- If you don't have a will, your podcast may not end up where you want it to.
- Dying without instructions for your podcast can lead to chaos for your family.
- Setting up a will or a plan for your podcast is just plain smart business.
- Don't wait until it's too late; get your podcast plans in order now.
- Having a podcast prenup can save your loved ones from a lot of headaches later.
- Make sure your family knows how to access your podcast info if you suddenly vanish.
Mentioned in this Episode
