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

I've learned a lot about writing and communication from Mignon Fogarty (sometimes known as Grammar Girl), but also a lot about the business of podcast networks. In this episode we talk about both.

Mignon is the founder of the Quick and Dirty Tips network and creator of Grammar Girl, which has been named one of Writer's Digest's 101 best websites for writers multiple times. She is also an inductee in the Podcasting Hall of Fame.

She's a pioneer in the field of podcasting, recognizing its potential as a platform for independent journalism and storytelling. Her insightful interviews and informative content have made her a trusted source of information for her audience. With a background in linguistics and a passion for clear communication, she's become a leading voice in the world of podcasting, demonstrating the power of media in the digital age.

In this episode, I talk with Mignon about:​

• Success with Grammar Girl and her commitment to meeting podcast deadlines
• Her "Quick and Dirty" podcasting network
• Her use of a friendly cartoon character as Grammar Girl's avatar to make grammar more approachable and the importance of maintaining a personal connection with her audience
• The impact of speech styles on written content and the nuances of audio in podcasting in the age of advanced AI technology
• The challenges of content quality, fact-checking, and speed in podcasting without traditional journalistic filters
• Her career transition from writing and grammar to podcasting, facilitated by an experience with repetitive injury and dictation, and her subsequent success partnering with Macmillan Publishing

Episode Timestamps:​

• 00:00 "The Grammar Daily"
• 03:32 Anyone can now gather and share news.
• 06:52 Podcast deadlines are always strictly met ... at least for Grammar Girl
• 13:03 How a repetitive injury helped Mignon's podcast hosting
• 13:53 A partner for the "Quick and Dirty" podcasting network.
• 19:03 The Grammar Girl artwork and caricature.
• 20:22 Importance of forming personal connections in AI era
• 24:45 Why you need to promote your work after finishing it
• 28:23 PhD dropout becomes chair of media entrepreneurship ...
• 33:04 Detailed legal contracts 
• 35:04 The "original format" scripted shows continue
• 37:41 Privacy and making videos
• 42:23 Diversity in podcast (and other content) distribution
• 44:44 The NPR host who ignored me
• 46:49 Subscribe now to never miss an episode

Want 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.​ 

And if you want even more ... check out the daily newsletter, Big Podcast Daily.

Topics covered in this episode:​

• Dealing with the stress and challenges of podcasting, including burnout, creative expansion, and overcoming the pressure for overnight success.
• The importance and power of local content in podcasting, including successful connections with a local audience and sponsorships.
• The role of luck and slow-burn foundation in the success of podcasting, books, content, YouTube, and live events.
• Strategies for creating a positive environment for oneself and others to produce good podcast content.
• Insights on dealing with difficult individuals in the entertainment industry and the impact of talent versus behavior.
• The challenges faced by a successful media company owner in retaining a younger audience.
• The benefits and success of targeting a local audience in podcasting and building dedicated communities.

Episode Timestamps:​

• 00:00 Podcast burnout and tools for growth.
• 07:06 Avoid stress and negative people for success.
• 07:51 Talent isn't everything in the entertainment industry.
• 13:49 Real estate agents excited about local podcasting.
• 14:08 Specialized content attracts desired listeners, avoiding "waste."
• 17:30 Parasocial relationships can happen to you.
• 22:05 Ways to overcome podcast/creator burnout.
• 25:29 Chewbacca Mom ... now what?
• 27:51 Free podcast growth toolkit, personalized coaching available.

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

Topics covered in this episode:​

• New Year's resolutions and sustainability in podcasting
• Embracing mistakes and learning from experiences in podcasting
• Podcasting lessons from fashion icon Andre Leon Talley
• Tools and resources for podcasters
• Podcast growth and monetization
• The importance of diverse perspectives and inclusivity in decision-making positions
• Email management tips and the addictive nature of email communication

Episode Timestamps:​

• 00:00 A confession.
• 04:06 Oops!!
• 07:31 Fashion isn't everything
• 09:52 Empowering underprivileged communities to drive real change
• 16:12 Email overload and a loss of brainpower
• 18:56 Gmail tools and tips 
• 22:23 Tips for better interviews and audience surveys
• 26:06 Upcoming interview with Jim Collison, co-host of Ask the Podcast Coach
• 26:37 Royalty-free music

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

Topics covered in this episode:​

• The significance of the New Year and the need for a fresh start for you and your podcast
• The importance of setting clear expectations for guests and creating a guest confirmation page for interviews
• The concept of "a month in a day" to efficiently manage tasks and get things done before the year ends
• The benefits of transparency when interviewing sources and setting clear boundaries for interviews
• Strategies for committing to new projects for a specific duration to assess their feasibility and make adjustments
• Tools and methods for automating podcast outlines, episode notes, and summaries for improved efficiency
• The Big Podcast AMP (Audience Monetization Program) for personal coaching to grow your podcast audience, increase engagement, and monetize your podcast

Episode Timestamps:​

04:01 Improvement is gradual; celebrate small victories.

07:39 Challenges in podcasting?

10:38 Clarifying expectations, boundaries, and process when doing interviews

12:47 Why guests are often intimidated by you

18:00 Automated podcast outlines for only $29

21:25 Automated podcast transcription

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

Topics covered in this episode:​

• How to never miss an interview
• How an end-of-year survey can improve your podcasting strategy (and questions to ask your audience)
• Tips for pronouncing names correctly
• A checklist to catch audio problems in podcast interviews
• Transcribe your podcast with AI
• Considerations for purchasing podcast equipment (and its impact on success)

Episode Timestamps:​

04:38 Coordinating interviews

07:57 Improving your podcast with essential listener questions.

09:57 Why do people listen to your podcast?

13:22 NPR checklist helps prevent audio interview issues.

19:42 New equipment doesn't guarantee podcast success.

20:16 Shure SM58: A popular, durable, and reliable $99 microphone.

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

Topics covered in this episode:​

• The importance of seizing opportunities and recording meaningful conversations

• Reflecting on your impact and legacy as a podcaster

• Going deeper with podcast content and going beyond surface level goals for your podcast

• The potential for real impact and change, even with a small audience

• What your podcast makes possible

• Embracing the deeper intention and possibilities for podcasts, including "dirty joke" podcasts

• The power of passing on wisdom and messages through podcasting

Episode Timestamps:​

00:00 One of my first radio guests ...

06:04 Focus on impact, not just popularity or legacy.

07:26 Having real conversation despite differences and the potential for common ground in podcasting.

10:03 Embracing wisdom, exploring podcast potential, and uplifting people with humor.

The Newsletter for Podcasters

• Big Podcast Insider - Weekly Podcasting Newsletter ​

Want more help growing your podcast audience?

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

Topics covered in this episode:​

• The importance of getting listeners to take a specific action after listening to a podcast.

   

   

• Creating effective call-to-action statements and building an email list for communication with the audience.

   

• Lead magnet ideas to maintain listener engagement.

   

• Engaging and growing the audience with interactive content like quizzes, surveys, and assignments.

   

• Offering downloadable printables, templates, and tools related to podcast themes.

   

• Tips for testing microphones, maintaining podcast equipment, and using AI-based tools for transcription and organization.

Episode Timestamps:​

00:00 Visit newsletter.bigpodcast.com to see my dog.

05:39 Engage subscribers with immediate content.

09:28 Bookstagram buzz

12:38 Email engagement is crucial for immediate content consumption.

13:14 Attract subscribers with exclusive content and bonuses.

17:33 Engage audience with fun quizzes and tools.

21:45 Be a compassionate host for better interviews.

24:30 Keep guests at ease – one way to do it.

27:02 "Grow, engage, and monetize your podcast now."

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

Topics covered in this episode:​

• Importance of focusing on growing and retaining a podcast audience
• Using video outreach to book more podcast interviews and increase podcast visibility
• Taking a break from podcasting during the holiday season and maintaining listener engagement
• Lessons that podcasters can learn from college radio and its relevance to podcasting
• A new solution for podcasting's biggest challenge, focusing on discovery
• The evolution of podcast trends and debunking rumors of the "podcast bubble bursting"
• Harnessing the potential of AI and automation tools for writing podcast summaries and outlines

Episode Timestamps:​

04:35 Connect to more people now

06:19 30 helpful people

10:53 Need to take a break?

15:19 The pressure!!

16:45 Podcasting opportunities during holiday periods

20:59 FedEx and your podcast

25:04 Automated podcast content creation tool

26:45 Easily subscribe with a QR code.

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

This is a simple "trick" you can use to make being a guest on your podcast more memorable.

This is also a test ... which I'll explain after I tell you the trick.

Want more?

• Big Podcast AMP (Audio Monetization Program)
• Big Podcast Daily (my daily newsletter for podcasters)
• Big Podcast Insider (my weekly newsletter for podcasters)
• Big Podcast - The Book

Topics covered in this episode:​

• Spotify Wrapped and its impact on podcasters
• Highlights and insights from the podcast "Louder Than a Riot"
• Sonic Dash Audio Competition
• A podcast scam involving payment to be a guest
• Tips for starting a podcast
• Questions to ponder before starting a podcast
• Being the right person to make a podcast and the passion required to drive the process

Episode Timestamps:​

03:47 Starting a new podcast?

08:55 Stay mindful, stay informed, protect your image.

12:04 My "Undercover Boss" (and podcasting) story.

15:13 Rage farming 

18:25 Experienced, committed, and intentional ...

19:31 Spotify Wrapped may not reflect podcast success ...

22:04 Automation and AI for 

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