Big Podcast Playbook - Grow Your Podcast. Build Your Audience.

Unlock your podcasting potential with this episode of Build a Big Podcast!

Main Objectives of this Episode

• Growing your podcast audience
• Making a podcast that sponsors are interested in
• Creating a podcast that people will miss if it's gone

Monetization Potential

• How podcasting skills can be monetized
• Information on Big Podcast Amp at bigpodcast.com/amp

Challenges in Content Creation

• Increasing noise making it harder to grab attention
• Risk of burnout from the "content treadmill"

Podcast Improvement Tips (7 Nonnegotiable Things)

1. Clear Niche

   • Importance of clearly defined target audience

2. Distinct Perspective

   • Necessity of a unique point of view for your podcast

3. Non-Neutral Voice

   • The importance of having a clear stance on issues and meticulous editing

4. Mostly Insights, Some Promotion

   • Balance of valuable content and promotion

5. Personal Engagement

   • Avoiding generic address terms, speaking as if to a single person

6. Use 'You' Frequently

   • Making the audience feel personally addressed

7. Relax and Be Real

   • Showing genuine personality and sharing relatable stories

Editing Insights

• Example of editing efficiency where up to 40% of recorded content can be removed

Advertising Tips

• Integration of ads with useful content

Personal Stories

• Sharing personal anecdotes without crossing professional boundaries
• David and his wife selling items on eBay
• Humorous eBay search incident with "dirty dicks" hot sauce

Podcast Information

• Promotion of "Build A Big Podcast" and its focus on growth, monetization, and improvement
• Podcast website: bigpodcast.com

Episode Highlights

• Podcast rebranding
• 7 non-negotiable podcast requirements
• Guide on podcast interviews
• New podcast "Talk Tuah" by Haliey Welch
• Business blueprint and royalty-free music for podcasters
• Classified ads to help grow podcasts

Podcast Rebranding Details

• Discussion on the importance of environment on identity and behavior
• Changes including new artwork and formats

Subscribe and Follow

• Subscription details at bigpodcast.com/subscribe
• Additional updates at extra.bigpodcast.com

Big Podcast History

• Initial name "Big Podcast Daily" during a 30-day trial run
• Renamed to "Build a Big Podcast"

Title Considerations

• Challenges with naming a podcast about podcasting to ensure clarity

Future Content

• More detailed discussions on rebranding to be shared on Big Podcast Extra and in the newsletter

8 Steps for Better Podcast Interviews

1. Do Your Research

   • Importance of preparation

2. Create a Flexible Outline

   • Having an adaptable structure for the interview

3. Use Open-Ended Questions

   • Encouragement of storytelling

4. Listen Actively

   • Importance of smooth transitions and acknowledging responses

5. Maintain a Conversational Tone

   • Engaging in two-way interaction

6. Be Adaptable

   • Willingness to deviate from the plan based on the conversation

7. Monitor the Clock

   • Ensuring coverage of important topics within available time

8. Review and Edit the Recording

   • Analyzing for continuous improvement

Haliey Welch New Podcast

• Deal with Jake Paul's media company and financial earnings
• Charitable initiatives and dog adoption promotion
• Content focused on pop culture with charitable undertones

Solo Business Canvas

• One-page blueprint for optimizing podcast business
• Identification of ideal listener, new revenue opportunities, and resources

Persona Music

• 10,000 royalty-free songs for podcast background music
• Enhancing content and ad quality

Pre-Interview Importance

• Essential for improving podcast quality
• Gauging guest's communication style and knowledge

Additional Information

• Subscribe to Build a Big Podcast
• See Big Podcast AMP for personalized podcast growth assistance

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00 Drive podcast traffic using Riverside's AI Magic Clips (See an example here.)
• 04:00 Environment (and microphones) shapes identity and behavior significantly
• 09:13 Why content creators (including podcasters) struggle
• 10:54 Focus on niche for a specific podcast audience
• 16:52 Balancing humanity with podcast content is crucial
• 21:26 Frustration transitioning from upbeat song to dedication
• 26:13 Editing your own podcast teaches valuable hosting lessons
• 26:50 Review recordings to improve podcast hosting skills
• 30:54 Affordable music for your podcast
• 33:24 Simple website creation for podcasters

The Newsletter for Podcasters

• Big Podcast Insider - Weekly Podcasting Newsletter ​

This episode of Build a Big Podcast is brought to you by Riverside ...​

Riverside is online recording software that makes it easy for podcasters to record studio-quality interviews from anywhere. Try it free and, if you like it, get 15% off any membership plan when you use the code BIGPODCAST.​​

About this episode of Build a Big Podcast:​

This is the audio companion to Issue 197 of Big Podcast Insider. If you're interested in more info on what I talk about on this episode and also links, that's where to go. On this episode, I dive into where the money is made in podcasting. how to get more reviews (and subscribers) for your podcast, podcast hosting, and more. ​

Big Podcast Insider is a weekly newsletter on podcasting. If you like the content of this episode, you can subscribe here – it's free and you can unsubscribe at any time with a single click.​

Want more help growing your podcast audience?

• Big Podcast Extra - Podcasting Tips
• Big Podcast AMP (Audio Monetization Program)

Click the icon below to listen.

Breaking down the most debated podcasting tools and events with an insider's perspective - David Hooper rates them as overrated, underrated, or accurately rated on this episode of Build a Big Podcast!

Episode Timestamps

Introduction (00:00:05 - 00:00:56)

• Breaking the 4th wall
• Mentioning past insider episodes and newsletter
• Overwhelm with other work (new book, other projects, client work, NPR podcast)
• Introduction to "Build A Big Podcast" and episode format

Episode Format: Over, Under, or Accurate (00:00:56 - 00:01:21)

• Explanation of the format: Overrated, Underrated, or Accurately Rated

Blue Yeti Microphone (00:01:21 - 00:03:33)

• Overrated for most people, underrated for podcasters
• Best practices for using Blue Yeti
• Cost and sensitivity issues
• Alternative: ATR 2100 by Audio-Technica

Audacity (00:03:33 - 00:04:12)

• Highly underrated
• Long-time user perspective
• New features and plug-in compatibility
• Opinions on destructive vs. non-destructive editing

Podcasting Conferences (00:04:12 - 00:10:24)

• General opinion: Underrated until they are overrated
• Costs and company expenses
• Differences between independent and company podcasters
• Importance of having a plan for bigger events
• Music industry comparison: SXSW
• Opinion on smaller, regional events
• Potential for organizing small events for independent podcasters

High-End Microphones (00:10:24 - 00:14:16)

• General opinion: Overrated for general use, underrated for reliability
• Examples: RE 20, SM 7B, SM 58
• Issues with counterfeit microphones
• Importance of reliability and quality

Remote Recording (00:14:16 - 00:19:20)

• General opinion: Accurately rated
• Benefits of in-person interviews
• Personal anecdotes (e.g., Dolly Parton interview)
• Time-saving aspects of remote recording platforms
• Comparison with past technologies (ISDN)
• Unique experiences tied to in-person interviews

Conclusion (00:19:20 - 00:20:01)

• Future episodes on overrated, underrated, or accurate topics
• Information on how to subscribe and stay updated on new episodes

The Newsletter for Podcasters

• Big Podcast Insider - Weekly Podcasting Newsletter ​

Want more help growing your podcast audience?

• Big Podcast Extra - Podcasting Tips
• Big Podcast AMP (Audio Monetization Program)

Click the icon below to listen.

Learn how to grow your podcast, find quality equipment on a budget, and make your show truly matter in this episode of Build a Big Podcast!

Main Objectives of this Episode

• Growing your podcast audience

• Making a podcast that sponsors are interested in

• Creating a podcast that people will miss if it's gone

Topics Covered in This Episode

1. Building a Successful Podcast

   • Importance of perception in life and podcasting

   • Example of the podcast "20VC" and its growth journey

   • Realistic expectations about the time it takes to succeed in podcasting

   • David's first radio experience and its evolution

   • Coming soon ... 30-day Solo Podcast Challenge to improve hosting skills

   • Big Podcast AMP (Audio Monetization Program)

2. The $99 Miracle

   • Reduction in costs for quality podcasting equipment

   • Example of Shure SM 57 and SM 58 microphones

   • Cost comparison of recording equipment over the years

   • What's your "$99 miracle" story?

3. Exclusive Podcast Deals

   • Historical example of exclusive deals in media ... MTV and Friday Night Videos

   • Potential pitfalls and benefits of exclusive deals

   • David's personal experience with CBS offer

   • Joe Rogan's Spotify exclusive deal and its evolution

4. 70,000,000 Listeners Can't Be Wrong

   • Marketing vs. product quality

   • The importance of editing and making content look effortless

   • Example of Michael Jackson's "Thriller" and the extensive effort put into the final product

   • Reference to an NPR-style narrative piece David is working on

5. Free Productivity App: Twos

   • Features and benefits

   • Collaboration capabilities

   • Comparisons to other productivity apps like Things and Marvin

6. Free Sound Effects: Audio

   • Website for high-quality, free sound effects

   • Encouragement to utilize sound effects to enhance podcast production

7. A Light-hearted Joke

   • Instagram model and soldier on Call of Duty joke

   • Analogy about the importance of real-world experience and engagement with the audience

Episode Timestamps

• 03:21 Success in podcasting: patience, persistence, daily effort
• 06:44 Radio career shifted from promotion to hosting
• 11:51 Audacity helps remove tape hiss
• 15:08 Exclusive deals risk isolating broad audiences
• 19:15 Podcast creation: Editing is the real work
• 23:05 Instagram model vs Call of Duty soldier
• 25:59 Grow your podcast audience and monetize effectively
• 27:20 Grateful

The Newsletter for Podcasters

• Big Podcast Insider - Weekly Podcasting Newsletter ​

This episode of Build a Big Podcast is brought to you by Riverside ...​

Riverside is online recording software that makes it easy for podcasters to record studio-quality interviews from anywhere. Try it free and, if you like it, get 15% off any membership plan when you use the code BIGPODCAST.​​

About this episode of Build a Big Podcast:​

This is the audio companion to Issue 196 of Big Podcast Insider. If you're interested in more info on what I talk about on this episode and also links, that's where to go. On this episode, I dive into where the money is made in podcasting. how to get more reviews (and subscribers) for your podcast, podcast hosting, and more. ​

Big Podcast Insider is a weekly newsletter on podcasting. If you like the content of this episode, you can subscribe here – it's free and you can unsubscribe at any time with a single click.​

Want more help growing your podcast audience?

• Big Podcast Extra - Podcasting Tips
• Big Podcast AMP (Audio Monetization Program)

Click the icon below to listen.

Unlock powerful podcasting tips, from mastering interviews to creating online radio stations, and learn how to amplify your message in this episode of Build a Big Podcast!

Topics covered in this episode:​

• Phil Donahue and Oprah Winfrey
  • Phil Donahue's Impact on Daytime Talk Shows
  • Oprah Winfrey's Acknowledgment of Donahue
  • Encouragement to Engage Listeners
  • Reference to Phil Donahue and David Letterman Interview
• Own Your Niche
  • Concept of Niche Ownership in Podcasting
  • Examples of Podcasters Adopting Words on Wordnik
  • Benefits of Word Adoptions for Engagement and SEO
• Larry King's Interview Preparation
  • Claim: Larry King Never Prepared for Interviews
  • Discussion on Authenticity vs. Preparation
  • Comparison with other Professionals (e.g., Guitarist Yngwie Malmsteen)
  • Advice on Traditional and Non-Traditional Preparation
• Apple Podcasts Web Edition
  • Benefits for Non-Apple Device Users
  • Increased Accessibility for Listeners
• Creating an Online Radio Station
  • Introduction to Radioize
  • Benefits of Online Radio Stations for Podcasters
  • Different Use Cases: Music, Fitness, Comedy
• The Gang Run Printing Method
  • Explanation of Gang Run Concept
  • Advantages in Cost and Time Efficiency
  • Advice on Scheduling Multiple Podcast Episodes for Recording
• Top 50 Podcasts in the United States
  • Trends in Top Podcasts
  • Advice Against Chasing Charts
  • Emphasis on Authentic Content Creation

Episode Timestamps

• 04:47 Engaging with your audience create impactful podcasts
• 09:11 The importance of authenticity in podcasting interviews
• 10:23 Preparation is key ...
• 15:33 Using podcast programming to drive traffic
• 16:17 Increase live interaction for your podcast by using this tool
• 20:01 New podcast content, including entertainment and talk
• 24:29 Gratitude for you

The Newsletter for Podcasters

• Big Podcast Insider - Weekly Podcasting Newsletter ​

This episode of Build a Big Podcast is brought to you by Riverside ...​

Riverside is online recording software that makes it easy for podcasters to record studio-quality interviews from anywhere. Try it free and, if you like it, get 15% off any membership plan when you use the code BIGPODCAST.​​

About this episode of Build a Big Podcast:​

This is the audio companion to Issue 195 of Big Podcast Insider. If you're interested in more info on what I talk about on this episode and also links, that's where to go. On this episode, I dive into where the money is made in podcasting. how to get more reviews (and subscribers) for your podcast, podcast hosting, and more. ​

Big Podcast Insider is a weekly newsletter on podcasting. If you like the content of this episode, you can subscribe here – it's free and you can unsubscribe at any time with a single click.​

Want more help growing your podcast audience?

• Big Podcast Extra - Podcasting Tips
• Big Podcast AMP (Audio Monetization Program)

Click the icon below to listen.

Learn unique strategies for growing, monetizing, and marketing your podcast, plus hear about the power of empathy and a fun (but awkward) Thanksgiving podcast story in this episode of Build a Big Podcast!

Topics covered in this episode:​

• Marketing for Podcasters
• Podcast Monetization Strategies
• Audience Engagement Techniques
• Podcasting Equipment and Tools
• Empathy in Podcasting
• Importance of Originality
• Helping New Podcasters
• Personal Coaching Program for Podcasters (Big Podcast AMP)

Episode Timestamps

• 04:05 Established podcasters are willing to help newcomers
• 08:09 Subscribe for more ...
• 11:40 Tips for better podcasting
• 15:29 A recording mishaps that lead to awkward holiday situation
• 17:27 Inspired by the adult industry ...
• 21:40 Live events to build audience, generate income, connect
• 25:24 Music licensing for your podcast is important ... protect yourself!

The Newsletter for Podcasters

• Big Podcast Insider - Weekly Podcasting Newsletter ​

This episode of Build a Big Podcast is brought to you by Riverside ...​

Riverside is online recording software that makes it easy for podcasters to record studio-quality interviews from anywhere. Try it free and, if you like it, get 15% off any membership plan when you use the code BIGPODCAST.​​

About this episode of Build a Big Podcast:​

This is the audio companion to Issue 194 of Big Podcast Insider. If you're interested in more info on what I talk about on this episode and also links, that's where to go. On this episode, I dive into where the money is made in podcasting. how to get more reviews (and subscribers) for your podcast, podcast hosting, and more. ​

Big Podcast Insider is a weekly newsletter on podcasting. If you like the content of this episode, you can subscribe here – it's free and you can unsubscribe at any time with a single click.​

Want more help growing your podcast audience?

• Big Podcast Extra - Podcasting Tips
• Big Podcast AMP (Audio Monetization Program)

Click the icon below to listen.

Discover essential tips for balancing podcasting and self-care, enhancing audio quality, and leveraging the power of life experiences in this episode of Build a Big Podcast!

Topics covered in this episode:​

• Dangers of sensational content
• Importance of self-care balance
• Validation of podcast content
• Mental health of podcast hosts
• Audio quality recommendations
• The cost of quality podcasting equipment
• Impact of life experiences
• Personal Coaching Program for Podcasters (Big Podcast AMP)

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00 Grow your podcast, make money
• 03:25 Podcast growth, profitability, and impact explained succinctly
• 11:33 Podcast AMP: Grow, promote, and monetize your podcast
• 14:57 Don't write memoir too soon, share experiences
• 18:27 Validation before podcasting, audience size doesn't matter
• 22:28 Serious burnout and hitting a wall
• 24:48 Busyness amplifies distractions; seek sustainable engagement
• 26:39 "Jokes reflect truth, mental health advice included."

The Newsletter for Podcasters

• Big Podcast Insider - Weekly Podcasting Newsletter ​

This episode of Build a Big Podcast is brought to you by Riverside ...​

Riverside is online recording software that makes it easy for podcasters to record studio-quality interviews from anywhere. Try it free and, if you like it, get 15% off any membership plan when you use the code BIGPODCAST.​​

About this episode of Build a Big Podcast:​

This is the audio companion to Issue 193 of Big Podcast Insider. If you're interested in more info on what I talk about on this episode and also links, that's where to go. On this episode, I dive into where the money is made in podcasting. how to get more reviews (and subscribers) for your podcast, podcast hosting, and more. ​

Big Podcast Insider is a weekly newsletter on podcasting. If you like the content of this episode, you can subscribe here – it's free and you can unsubscribe at any time with a single click.​

Want more help growing your podcast audience?

• Big Podcast Extra - Podcasting Tips
• Big Podcast AMP (Audio Monetization Program)

Click the icon below to listen.

Expert tips on growing your podcast, from mastering the perfect newscast template to leveraging Spotify comment sections in this episode of Build a Big Podcast!

Topics covered in this episode:​

• Promoting a podcast
• The importance of getting names right
• Featured podcasts on Pocket Casts - You could be next!
• The Spotify comment section (and how to take advantage of it)
• A 30-second newscast template
• Life after viral success (and why you'll be in good shape should you go viral)
• Personal Coaching Program for Podcasters (Big Podcast AMP)

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00 Maximize podcast reach, quality, and monetization
• 05:37 Pocket Cast app seeks new podcast features
• 06:33 Grow your audience with comments
• 11:16 Promote podcast on traditional audio platforms, not just YouTube
• 13:39 16 Minutes of Fame
• 16:57 Personalized coaching to grow, monetize podcast audience

The Newsletter for Podcasters

• Big Podcast Insider - Weekly Podcasting Newsletter ​

This episode of Build a Big Podcast is brought to you by Riverside ...​

Riverside is online recording software that makes it easy for podcasters to record studio-quality interviews from anywhere. Try it free and, if you like it, get 15% off any membership plan when you use the code BIGPODCAST.​​

About this episode of Build a Big Podcast:​

This is the audio companion to Issue 192 of Big Podcast Insider. If you're interested in more info on what I talk about on this episode and also links, that's where to go. On this episode, I dive into where the money is made in podcasting. how to get more reviews (and subscribers) for your podcast, podcast hosting, and more. ​

Big Podcast Insider is a weekly newsletter on podcasting. If you like the content of this episode, you can subscribe here – it's free and you can unsubscribe at any time with a single click.​

Want more help growing your podcast audience?

• Big Podcast Extra - Podcasting Tips
• Big Podcast AMP (Audio Monetization Program)

Click the icon below to listen.

In this episode of Build a Big Podcast, David Hooper emphasizes the importance of getting guest names right and maintaining respect and accuracy for a successful podcast interview.

Bullet Points:

• Respectful Podcasting Practices - The importance of being respectful to your podcast guests, ensuring you represent them accurately without manipulative edits
• Audience Priority - Ensuring that your audience comes first by not spreading propaganda, misinformation, or disinformation on your podcast
• Name Pronunciation Verification - The significance of verifying the pronunciation of your guest's name to avoid mistakes and show respect
• Cultural Sensitivity - Understanding that different cultures may feel uncomfortable correcting the host, hence the need for the host to create a welcoming environment for corrections
• Handling Corrections - Encouraging guests to correct any mistakes (names, dates, etc.) during the podcast to avoid extensive editing later
• Guest Experience - The impact of repeated corrections on the flow of an interview and strategies for handling such situations
• Personal Anecdotes - Personal stories and humorous instances related to name pronunciation errors and misunderstandings

Want more help growing your podcast audience?

• Big Podcast Extra - Podcasting Tips
• Big Podcast AMP (Audio Monetization Program)

Click the icon below to listen.

Discover essential insights on storytelling, monetizing your podcast, leveraging YouTube and AI tools for podcast growth in this episode of Build a Big Podcast!

Topics covered in this episode:​

• Podcasting Competition and Challenges
• Importance of Good Storytelling
• Monetizing Your Podcast
• YouTube vs. Audio Podcasts
• AI Tools for Social Media
• Listener Interaction Strategies
• Creating and Using Podcast Websites
• Personal Coaching Program for Podcasters (Big Podcast AMP)
• Tools and Services to Improve Podcasting Efficiency

Episode Timestamps

• 06:06 Monetizing audio skills, secrets of entertainment industry
• 09:16 Podcasters can make six figures diversifying income
• 11:45 YouTube reaches many, but audio fosters loyalty
• 13:58 YouTube can attract new podcast listeners
• 16:54 Educate followers, use direct RSS for outreach
• 22:02 Podcast Growth Toolkit
• 22:53 Grow your podcast, make mom proud, subscribe

The Newsletter for Podcasters

• Big Podcast Insider - Weekly Podcasting Newsletter ​

This episode of Build a Big Podcast is brought to you by Riverside ...​

Riverside is online recording software that makes it easy for podcasters to record studio-quality interviews from anywhere. Try it free and, if you like it, get 15% off any membership plan when you use the code BIGPODCAST.​​

About this episode of Build a Big Podcast:​

This is the audio companion to Issue 191 of Big Podcast Insider. If you're interested in more info on what I talk about on this episode and also links, that's where to go. On this episode, I dive into where the money is made in podcasting. how to get more reviews (and subscribers) for your podcast, podcast hosting, and more. ​

Big Podcast Insider is a weekly newsletter on podcasting. If you like the content of this episode, you can subscribe here – it's free and you can unsubscribe at any time with a single click.​

Want more help growing your podcast audience?

• Big Podcast Extra - Podcasting Tips
• Big Podcast AMP (Audio Monetization Program)

Click the icon below to listen.

Discover the latest podcasting tools, tips, and updates on accessibility, Audacity 3.6, Overcast's upgrade, and how to turn your podcast into engaging social media content in this episode of Build a Big Podcast!

Topics covered in this episode:​

• Accessibility equals audience growth
• Audacity 3.6 is out (with new features!)
• Overcast podcast player gets a big upgrade
• AI-generated social media content to help you grow your podcast
• Protecting your podcast data (and reputation)
• Amazon Prime Day deals for podcasters
• Personal Coaching Program for Podcasters (Big Podcast AMP)
• Tools and Services to Improve Podcasting Efficiency

Episode Timestamps

• 04:55 Accessibility important for reaching diverse podcast audience
• 08:34 Podcast hack? Use password manager ...
• 10:13 I lost a lot of data this week
• 15:54 AI quizzes, press releases
• 17:41 Get Audacity 3.6 free, great podcast deals
• 20:02 Podcast Growth Toolkit

The Newsletter for Podcasters

• Big Podcast Insider - Weekly Podcasting Newsletter ​

This episode of Build a Big Podcast is brought to you by Riverside ...​

Riverside is online recording software that makes it easy for podcasters to record studio-quality interviews from anywhere. Try it free and, if you like it, get 15% off any membership plan when you use the code BIGPODCAST.​​

About this episode of Build a Big Podcast:​

This is the audio companion to Issue 190 of Big Podcast Insider. If you're interested in more info on what I talk about on this episode and also links, that's where to go. On this episode, I dive into where the money is made in podcasting. how to get more reviews (and subscribers) for your podcast, podcast hosting, and more. ​

Big Podcast Insider is a weekly newsletter on podcasting. If you like the content of this episode, you can subscribe here – it's free and you can unsubscribe at any time with a single click.​

Want more help growing your podcast audience?

• Big Podcast Extra - Podcasting Tips
• Big Podcast AMP (Audio Monetization Program)

Click the icon below to listen.