30-Day Podcast Launch Checklist (Excel, Google Sheets, PDF)

Launching a podcast feels like a hundred tasks at once. This turns it into one small task a day for 30 days, so you always know what to do next and what "done" looks like.

What's inside

• 30-day checklist (Excel / Google Sheets): 30 daily tasks in four weeks (Decide, Set up, Record + submit, Finish + launch). Each has a short how-to, a "done when" line, and a rough time estimate. Enter your start date and every task gets a planned date; set status from a dropdown and see what's behind schedule, hours left, and progress by week.

• Printable checklist (Word / Google Docs + PDF): the same 30 tasks as a tick-box list, one page per week.

• Launch week sheet (Word / Google Docs + PDF): a launch day plan, a "who to tell" list, three message drafts (announcement post, email to your list, personal message), and a first-week routine.

• A completed FICTIONAL example (The Slow Garden Podcast, a made-up gardening show) with every task marked done, plus a filled-in launch week sheet.

• Start Here guide, license, and changelog.

Who it's for: first-time podcasters, creators, and small businesses who want a simple, day-by-day plan instead of a big project plan.

What it isn't: it's not a course, a hosting service, or a guarantee. It doesn't promise listeners, rankings, or income. Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube steps are written as generic steps, so the checklist tells you to check each platform's current rules before you submit. Time estimates are rough guides (about 22 hours in total for a first-timer; yours will differ).

Want more depth? The Podcast Launch Kit adds a show planning workbook, episode outlines, a launch budget, guest scripts, and a 41-task dated checklist.

Formats: .docx, .xlsx, .pdf, .txt. Works in Microsoft Word and Excel, Google Docs and Sheets, and LibreOffice. No macros.

Refunds: these are instant digital downloads, so all sales are final and we don't offer refunds. If a file is broken, missing, or won't open, email info@thecigarguys.com and we'll fix or replace it.

License: for use in your own business and client work. No resale or redistribution. Questions: info@thecigarguys.com

FAQ

Q: What format are the files? Will they work with what I use?

A: You get a ZIP with Word (.docx), Excel (.xlsx), and PDF files. They open in Microsoft Word and Excel (desktop or web), Google Docs and Sheets, and LibreOffice. The spreadsheet uses standard formulas only, with no macros or add-ons.

Q: How do I use them in Google Docs / Sheets?

A: Unzip on a computer, upload the file to Google Drive, open it, then choose File > Save as Google Docs (or Google Sheets). The Start Here guide walks you through it. Sheet protection doesn't carry over to Google Sheets, so just avoid typing in the grey formula cells.

Q: How is this different from the Podcast Launch Kit?

A: The Podcast Launch Kit ($39) includes a 41-task dated launch checklist plus a show planning workbook, episode outlines, a budget, and guest scripts. This is a lighter, cheaper option: 30 daily tasks with how-to and 'done when' lines, a printable version, and a launch week sheet. The two cover similar ground, so you probably don't need both.

Q: Will this get my show into Apple Podcasts and Spotify?

A: The checklist walks you through the general steps (hosting, RSS feed, submission). Each platform sets and changes its own rules and review process, so you'll submit through their sites and check their current requirements.

Q: Can I change the start date or move tasks?

A: Yes. Change the start date on the Settings tab and every planned date moves with it, or type your own date for any single task.

Q: Can I get a refund?

A: No refunds on digital downloads. These are instant digital downloads, so all sales are final. If a file is broken, missing, or won't open, email info@thecigarguys.com and we'll fix or replace it.

Q: What can I do with the templates? (license)

A: Use and edit them in your own business and in work you do for clients. You can't resell, share, or redistribute the files (edited or not) as templates, or upload them to a template marketplace. Full terms are in the ZIP (LICENSE_and_Terms_of_Use).

Q: Will I get updates?

A: Yes. When the product is updated, the new file replaces the old one in Payhip. You can download it again from your purchase link or customer account, and CHANGELOG.txt lists what changed.

Q: I didn't get my download / the link expired.

A: Check your spam or promotions folder for the Payhip receipt. If it isn't there, email info@thecigarguys.com with the email address you ordered with and we'll resend the link.

Q: How do I get support?

A: Email info@thecigarguys.com with your order email and the file you're asking about.