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

Discover essential podcasting tips, lessons from Steve Albini, and advice on guest selection, marketing, and monetization in this episode of Build a Big Podcast!

Key Themes

• Audience growth strategies
• Guest pitches
• Integrity of podcast content
• Monetization methods
• Counterfeit podcasting equipment
• Steve Albini's lessons for podcasters

Topics covered in this episode:​

• Podcasting Advice from the Bible Belt: Insights into using traditional media techniques for modern podcasting.
• Steve Albini's Lessons for Podcasters: Key takeaways from the renowned audio engineer's advice and how it applies to podcasters.
• 34 Ways to Make Money as a Podcaster: Various monetization strategies for podcasters and creators with practical examples.
• Dealing with Mismatched Guest Pitches: How to handle and decline guest pitches that do not align with your podcast's theme or audience.
• The Importance of Podcast Integrity: Maintaining relevance and consistency in your podcast content and guest selection.
• Avoiding Fake Equipment: A warning about counterfeit Shure microphones and advice on ensuring you purchase authentic gear.
• Creating Authentic Content with Urgency: Discussing the balance between high-quality production and the raw performance captured in podcasting.

Episode Timestamps

• 04:57 Podcasters accept mismatched pitches all the time
• 06:44 Reject unrelated podcast proposals to maintain quality
• 11:37 Lo-fi podcasting with Shure SM58 mic
• 13:17 Chasing money may not attract podcast listeners
• 17:05 Speakers (like podcasters) need to adapt to uncertainty
• 20:51 Phone calls, screening, and messages left behind
• 23:42 Vocaster mic and interface for $100
• 26:18 Subscribe at bigpodcast.com/subscribe for latest episodes

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 180 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)

David Hooper dives into the details of the Focusrite Vocaster One and Vocaster Two Studio setups, offering insights into their usage, features, and how they can enhance your podcasting experience.

Key Themes

• Comparison of Vocaster One and Two Studios
• Benefits of Focusrite's audio interfaces
• Practical podcasting gear setup suggestions
• Impact of microphone choice on audio quality
• Automating audio settings with Focusrite Vocaster interfaces
• Portable podcasting equipment for remote interviews

Topics covered in this episode:​

• Overview of Focusrite's Vocaster One and Vocaster Two Studio interfaces and their features
• Comparison of Vocaster One and Vocaster Two microphones with popular models like Shure's SM58 and SM7B
• Discussion on the build quality, affordability, and suitability of Vocaster mics for beginners and professionals
• Explanation of the podcasting setup used by David Hooper for this episode, including the use of Audacity and not using a noise gate or compressor
• Insights on the automatic gain control feature of Vocaster interfaces and how it optimizes recording levels automatically

Want a Focusrite Vocaster?

• Vocaster One
• Vocaster Two

Want more help growing your podcast audience?

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

Discover the secrets of powerful podcasting with tips on audience growth, monetization, effective use of feedback, and the latest podcasting tools to make a podcast people care about.

Key Themes

• Tom Petty's insights on podcasting
• Audio quality and technical troubleshooting for podcasters
• Utilizing riverside.fm for podcast recording
• Listener retention differences: Apple vs Spotify
• Strategies for conducting impactful podcast interviews
• Benefits of receiving and acting on feedback from listeners
• Tools and tips for podcast monetization

Topics covered in this episode:​

• The importance of listener retention on different podcast distribution platforms, like Apple and Spotify.
• Strategies for preparing for podcast interviews, including the value of pre-interview calls.
• Tips on using YouTube's community posts to enhance podcast visibility and engagement
• Discussion on whether the world needs more podcasts and self-reflection for podcasters
• Podcasting insights from Tom Petty's approach to not boring the audience and getting to the point
• The use of AI tools in automating podcast summaries and feedback collection

Episode Timestamps

• 04:37 Tom Petty and podcasting
• 07:08 Consider if the world needs your podcast
• 11:22 Leverage long podcasts on YouTube using built-in tools
• 13:26 Uncovering unique podcast content from guests
• 18:46 Free Swiss Army Knife of podcasting
• 19:39 Audio Monetization Program 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 179 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)

David Hooper talks about a Dave Ramsey impersonation scam, explores essential podcasting tools like Audacity 3.5.1, and delivers tips for podcast growth and authenticity

Key Themes

• Avoiding scams and impersonation in podcasting
• Importance of tailored coaching for podcasters
• Equipment options for budget-friendly podcast setups
• Audience growth through effective improvement strategies
• Innovating within the podcast format
• Using professional tools for audio enhancement
• Continuous self-improvement and critique in podcasting

Topics covered in this episode:​

• Discussion on a scam involving someone posing as Dave Ramsey to sell investment schemes and debt reduction plans
• Overviews of podcast studio packages available for purchase, including details on equipment included in both a $100 and $200 option
• Analysis of new features in Audacity 3.5.1, including cloud project saving, pitch shifting, and a simplified interface
• Techniques for improving podcast hosting skills, focusing on one area at a time such as enhancing listening capabilities or delivery
• Impostors on social media impersonating podcasters
• Insights on creative risk and content delivery that meets audience expectations but also pushes boundaries

Episode Timestamps

• 04:52 Robin Williams' struggles in show business ... similar to a lot of people
• 09:08 Identify podcasting roadblocks, focus on improving and implementing
• 10:35 Repetitive interview questions that hinder genuine conversations
• 15:10 Voiced audiobooks, podcasting templates, training
• 18:29 Learning podcasting from music industry and pioneering digital media
• 20:38 Podcast uniqueness lost with copied interview format
• 24:11 Impersonators appear on social media, even inpersonating podcasters
• 28:02 Free tools and templates for podcasters' success
• 29:43 Subscribe to this podcast at bigpodcast.com for podcast growth tips

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 178 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)

Discover how AI is transforming podcasting, explore effective podcast cover art design, and learn tips to enhance your podcast's impact in this episode of Build a Big Podcast with David Hooper.

Key Themes

• Will AI replace podcasters?
• AI's role in audio editing.
• Designing effective podcast cover art.
• Using AI for podcast production enhancements.
• Importance of authentic podcast presentations.
• Tools for optimizing podcast content creation.
• Strategies for monetizing and growing podcasts.

Topics covered in this episode:​

• AI's potential to replace podcasters and its impact on different industries.
• The role of guest appearances in enhancing podcast engagement and adding variety to content.
• The analogy of podcasting to book categories and the importance of your podcast's title and theme.
• Strategies for designing effective podcast cover art that attracts and communicates with the target audience.
• Voicenotes AI notetaker: A tool for organizing podcast ideas and creating episode outlines.
• The importance of preparing and checking equipment with remote guests to ensure quality podcast production.
• Tools and resources that can aid in podcast content creation, audience growth, and monetization.

Episode Timestamps

• 03:32 Editing evolves, jobs may be eliminated.
• 06:24 Stepping out of "religion" leads to growth.
• 09:38 Evaluate podcast content, enhance message with guests.
• 14:10 Imagine a "family man" with a shocking act ...
• 18:54 Podcaster opportunities and recourses to help you grow, automate, manage your podcast.
• 22:08 Personalized coaching for you to grow your 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 177 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)

Gain invaluable insights on expanding your podcast's reach, monetizing effectively, and connecting with your audience on a deeper level with marketing expert David Hooper in this episode of Build a Big Podcast.

Key Themes

• Importance of podcasting beyond audio.
• Embracing diverse voices through podcasting.
• The concept of "1000 True Fans" explained (and how it works for podcasters)
• Monetization strategies beyond direct podcast earnings.
• Utilizing voice-changing technology in podcasting.
• Avoiding audio issues in podcast production.
• Utilizing classified ads for podcast growth.

Topics covered in this episode:​

• It's never "just a podcast" - your role in connecting people and fostering a sense of belonging.
• The concept of "1000 True Fans" and how nurturing a small, dedicated audience can sustain a podcaster financially.
• Leveraging the podcast as a marketing tool to promote other revenue-generating activities such as live performances, books, and workshops.
• Discussion on the updated version of the "1000 True Fans" manifesto and its relevance to podcasters.
• Voice-changing technology for podcasters who want to change their voice for their show or certain segments.
• The complications and editing nightmares caused by extra sounds during recording (and which sounds to listen for).
• The emotional connection and impact that podcasters can have on their listeners by making them feel seen and understood.

Episode Timestamps

• 03:43 Social media is hard to avoid.
• 08:18 Selling merch to fans.
• 10:36 Spotify 
• 13:50 Noisy fashion choices
• 18:54 $100 podcast studio includes audio interface, mic, headphones.
• 20:36 Personalized coaching for podcasters to grow 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 176 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)

In this episode of Build a Big Podcast, David Hooper reveals affordable podcasting secrets, reflects on creator burnout, and decodes the shifting dynamics of internet fame and audience building.

Key Themes

• Affordable podcasting equipment options
• Ensuring podcaster well-being
• Engaging audience interaction techniques
• Importance of editing for focus
• Dealing with social media algorithms
• Building true fan connectivity
• Diversity in podcasting guests

Topics covered in this episode:​

• Examining the cost and benefits of affordable podcasting equipment, like the Focusrite Vocaster Studio bundle, for achieving a professional sound on a budget.
• David Hooper's insights on maintaining podcaster well-being and avoiding burnout in the pursuit of consistently creating podcast episodes.
• A discussion on the strategies for making podcasts more spreadable, including interactive elements like Q&A sessions and connecting with listeners through shared experiences.
• Reflections on the importance of editing and structure in podcasting to ensure episodes remain clear, focused, and accessible to listeners.
• Consideration of current social media trends and their impact on creators, including the shift towards algorithmic content prioritization.
• An exploration of Patreon's role in fostering deeper connections between creators and their true fans, and its implication for creators' control over their work and income.
• The significance of diversity in podcast guest selection to ensure a wide range of perspectives and voices are represented in the podcasting space.

Episode Timestamps

• 06:12 Focusrite interfaces - a reliable and efficient solution.
• 11:06 Top players dominate with money, knowledge, content.
• 13:44 Editing issues make listening harder, removing "immersion."
• 16:59 Interactive content and accessibility to build podcast community.
• 19:50 Enhanced episode notes and accessibility features for podcasts.
• 25:26 Podcasters sacrificing themselves for their shows' success.
• 28:08 Versatile podcasting toolkit, personalized coaching for growth.
• 29:28 Subscribe to Build a Big Podcast with a single click

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 175 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)

Discover the future of podcasting with David Hooper as he explores the Supertone Shift voice processor. Supertone Shift offers real-time voice changing and lets users immediately switch to any selected voice. And there's a lot of potential for podcasters here ...

In this episode ...

• Real-time voice processing technology
• Voice options with Supertone Shift
• The importance of anonymity for certain guests
• Potential for fiction podcasts and audiobooks
• Advancements in digital recording convenience
• Focusrite Vocaster One Studio

Links ...

• Supertone Shift
• Focusrite Vocaster One Studio

More ...

• Big Podcast Insider - Weekly Podcasting Newsletter ​
• Big Podcast Extra
• Big Podcast AMP (Audio Monetization Program)

Dive deep with David Hooper on the latest Build a Big Podcast episode as he explores strategies for audience growth, monetization insights, and the resilient mindset needed to thrive in the podcasting world. 

Key Themes

• Audience growth through buying ads
• Social media clips for engagement
• Podcast advertising revenue projections
• Authentic ads in podcasting
• Podcast growth and monetization strategies
• Podcast cover art importance
• Networking in podcast communities

Topics covered in this episode:​

• Buying ads to grow a podcast audience and selecting the right online advertising options.
• Tips for converting podcast videos into engaging social media clips.
• Projected growth in podcast advertising revenue, potentially reaching $43 billion by 2032.
• Strategies to embrace change and take small actions to improve a podcast, such as utilizing SEO for better discoverability.
• The effectiveness of host-read advertisements and the value of creating authentic ad experiences for listeners.
• Insights into the challenges faced by creative individuals, like sensitivity and criticism, and their relevance to podcasters.
• Encouragement for podcasters to innovate with episode formats, lengths, or topics, and to engage in podcasting communities for networking and idea sharing.

Episode Timestamps

• 05:55 Embracing change in podcasting, small steps lead to big impact.
• 07:30 Beyonce makes a country album with help from established artists.
• 11:19 How to do a podcast teaser
• 13:54 Podcast (or radio show) format and interviews. 
• 19:06 A guide to buying ads for podcast growth at bigpodcast.com/amp. 
• 22:55 Content creators face challenges with unsatisfactory interviews for their audience, leading to reputational risks and vetting issues. 
• 26:04 Article on host-read advertisements emphasizing their effectiveness in leveraging trust and connection with audiences. 
• 31:59 Visit bigpodcast.com/subscribe for easy access to all episodes on iPhone, Android, or RSS.

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 174 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)

In this episode of Build A Big Podcast, host David Hooper shares valuable insights on navigating 1-star podcast reviews, podcast ease, and never starting from zero, offering valuable tips for podcasters looking to grow their audience and impact.

Key Themes

• Audience Growth: Strategies for attracting more podcast listeners.
• Reviews: Understanding the impact of both positive and negative reviews.
• Ease in Podcasting: Tips for making podcasting more manageable and stress-free.
• Starting Out: Embracing existing skills and experience when launching a podcast.
• Automated Tools: Using AI and automation to streamline podcast production.
• Guest Relationships: Managing interactions with podcast guests effectively.
• Monetization: Maximizing opportunities to make money from a podcast.

Topics covered in this episode:​

• The importance of podcast reviews, including how bad reviews can actually be beneficial
• Tips for dealing with negative reviews and learning from the feedback
• How to handle bad reviews without rewarding bad behavior
• Encouragement for podcasters to leave positive reviews for other podcasts
• Strategies for making the podcast recording process easier, including segmenting episodes and being prepared
• The concept of leveraging existing skills and knowledge to avoid starting from scratch in podcasting
• Tools and services to aid in podcast production

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00 Negative reviews improve podcast authenticity, create contrast.
• 05:47 Apology for disappointment? No.
• 08:24 How to support podcasters and content creators (without spending money).
• 11:08 Who is listening to your podcast? How to find out ...
• 16:04 Broadcast mics vs. "consumer" mics
• 18:21 Inherited characteristics and how your podcast will benefit
• 22:45 Podcast production, monetization, coaching
• 23:56 Enhance your podcast and grow your 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 173 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)