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

If you're wondering about Big Podcast AMP (Audio Monetization Program), this episode is for you.

This episode is Part 2 of 2 and I answer 20 of the most common questions that people ask about this program and working with me ... Part 1 is here.

The questions I answer:

1. How often is new recorded training content released?
2. Does the coaching include help with podcast monetization strategies?
3. What is the cancellation policy if I decide the group isn't right for me?
4. Can I get one-on-one coaching sessions, and if so, how are they scheduled?
5. Are there any resources provided, like worksheets or templates, to help with podcast planning and execution?
6. Is the forum moderated by experienced podcasters or coaches who can provide expert advice?
7. Will being a part of this group help me grow my podcast's audience?
8. How is member privacy handled within the group, especially on public forums?
9. Are there opportunities for members to showcase their podcasts within the group?
10. Does the group cater to both hobbyists and professional podcasters?
11. What specific skills or topics will I learn that I can't find in free podcasting resources?
12. Are the live calls interactive, allowing for Q&A and real-time discussion?
13. How do you measure the progress and success of the members in the group?
14. Is there a limit to the number of members in the group to ensure quality interaction and support?
15. Can members suggest topics or areas of focus for future training sessions or live calls?
16. Do you have guest speakers or experts in the industry participate in the coaching group?
17. What is the primary goal or mission of the coaching group for its members?
18. How does the forum facilitate ongoing learning and engagement between scheduled calls?
19. Are there any additional costs involved aside from the membership fee?
20. If I have a co-host or team, is there a plan available for group membership?

Mentioned in this Episode:

• 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

If you're wondering about Big Podcast AMP (Audio Monetization Program), this episode is for you.

This episode is Part 1 of 2 and I answer 20 of the most common questions that people ask about this program and working with me ...

The questions I answer:

1. My podcast is about __________. Can you help me?
2. Are your live sessions recorded?
3. How do you do the live sessions?
4. How long is the commitment for joining the group, and is there a trial period available?
5. Why yearly?
6. What level of experience in podcasting is required to join?
7. What topics do the live calls cover, and how frequently are they held?
8. How is the recorded training structured, and what areas of podcasting does it address?
9. Can members get personalized feedback on their podcasts within the group?
10. Is there a community aspect to the group? How do members interact with each other?
11. What are the technical requirements to access the forum and participate in the calls and training?
12. Are there any success stories or testimonials I can review?
13. What makes this coaching group different from other podcasting resources or communities?
14. What is the process for signing up?
15. Are there any special offers for new members?
16. Will there be opportunities for networking with other podcasters within the group?
17. Are there specific times when the live calls are scheduled, and are they available for replay if missed?
18. How does the coaching group stay updated with the latest podcasting trends and industry changes?
19. What kind of support can I expect to receive if I encounter technical issues or have questions?
20. Is the content within the coaching group catered to any particular niche or type of podcast?

Mentioned in this Episode:

• 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

Dan Hughley is an audio engineer who understands the importance of getting a good performance on tape. 

As a podcaster, you may know him from his work with Focusrite, manufacturer of the popular Scarlett line of audio interfaces.

In this episode, I talk with Dan about:​

• ​Making recording more accessible (and affordable).
• The rise of remote interviews and collaboration across different locations during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• The importance of having confidence in the gear you use (and knowing how to use it).
• Mic technique for optimal sound quality, including the use of boom arms or headsets.
• HEADSET MICS?! Is he serious?!! Yes! And when you should use them.
• Funny stories and common mistakes in the recording studio.
• The importance of learning equipment and avoiding issues like thin and quiet audio.
• The introduction and features of the new 4th generation Scarlett audio interface, including remote controllable gain, auto-gain technology, and improved audio quality.

Episode Timestamps:​

02:04 Capturing quality audio on location.

03:07 Remote interviews.

08:52 Good mic technique helps at funeral.

09:21 YouTubers lack understanding of mic technique.

14:57 How a fake button to toggle a red light can fool a producer (and you).

17:21 Remote controlled interfaces and other technology available to podcasters (for less than $500).

19:15 Lower noise floor, higher headroom = tremendous difference in your sound and how reference tracks aid in detecting deviations in sound quality. 

22:38 12 years ago ... Scarlett unlocked Pro Tools.

26:01 Be confident, make better podcasts.

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.​      

Note that this is PART 2 of a two-part series. PART 1 focuses on more psychology of getting a good episode on tape and how to make the most of your recording space. Subscribe to the podcast to make sure you don't miss it.

Topics covered in this episode:​

• The importance of podcast quality (and what this looks/sounds like)
• Automated quality checking tools
• Utilizing AI for content strategy in podcasting
• Editing podcasts with tools like Resound that detect filler words and long silences
• Setting boundaries as a podcaster and saying no to audience access requests
• Bad interview? Cut it short ...
• Different business models for podcasters, such as coaching, consulting, freelance services, and advertising
• Podcasting statistics, including download rates, episode frequency, and episode length

Episode Timestamps:​

02:48 Podcasting over holidays: Pros, cons, and considerations.

04:09 Thanksgiving?! What is that?

06:58 Engage and connect through unique holiday episodes.

12:00 421 downloads per episode

16:06 An automation tool that handles audio editing for you?

17:13 "Flight Check" tool  for podcasters.

20:34 Why people pitch you.

24:21 Don't waste time, follow the rules.

28:31 Automated guest booking for podcasters: Book Like a Boss.

30:12 Get the interview (plus studio 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 155 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 auidience?

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

I've learned a lot about both marketing as well as creativity from my work in the music industry, so it's always great to sit down with somebody who has a similar background and talk about how work in music applies to podcasting.

Dan Hughley is an audio engineer who understands the importance of managing people and situations in the studio. Like our role as podcasters, his role requires a bit of psychology. 

As a podcaster, you may know him from his work with Focusrite, manufacturer of the popular Scarlett line of audio interfaces.

In this episode, I talk with Dan about:​

• ​The importance of confidence and trust in interviews
• The differences between public personas and private personas in podcasting
• The role of the audio engineer in creating a comfortable recording environment
• Setting the space for creativity.
• The concept of "less is more" in music production and podcast editing
• Using reference tracks to make your episode the best it can be
• The importance of creating a dedicated creative space for podcasting, including tips on lighting, decor, and utilizing music during breaks
• The psychology of putting together great podcasts, including the need for listeners to be engaged and the importance of editing to create impactful content
• The role of listening skills in podcasting

Episode Timestamps:​

00:29 Marketing guy turned musician helps grow audiences.

05:16 Audio engineers are like psychologists – podcasters need these skills too.

08:21 Collaboration with professionals, "making good noise" and surpassing expectations.

09:28 Risk, trust, and letting loose as a musician and interviewer.

13:52 Allowing space for creativity and weirdness.

17:53 You need your version of David Bowie.

19:40 Creating space for artists in LA.

23:53 Acapella group emphasizes importance of listening in singing.

27:28 The hook 

28:48 Reference tracks and why "less is more."

32:37 Coming up ... Dan Hughley talks podcast equipment on budget.

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.​      

Note that this is PART 1 of a two-part series. PART 2 focuses on more technical elements of getting a good episode on tape and how to make the most with your recording budget. Subscribe to the podcast to make sure you don't miss it.

Topics covered in this episode:​

• The impact of using social media on creativity and the benefits and drawbacks involved.
• Copying industry trends in podcasting without realizing it and its implications.
• Generic guest pitch templates and the promotion of guest appearances on low-quality podcasts.
• The potential harm to a podcaster's reputation by saying yes to certain podcasts.
• Automation tools for podcasters such as Swell AI (episode notes and social media) and Book Like a Boss (guest booking). 
• Big Podcast AMP, a coaching program focused on growing podcast audiences and increasing monetization.
• What's next ... creating a comfortable studio environment and recording great interviews on a limited budget.

Episode Timestamps:​

00:02 Build a podcast that matters.

03:43 A magic trick brings quick win, hope, and more money.

07:37 Persistence and motivation lead to success. 

11:42 Speaking from the back of the throat can be harmful. Podcasters should aim for the "front of the face" to sound better.

14:26 Evenings are the preferred time for video podcasts. Opportunity still exists for audio podcasts in the morning, especially with younger people listening via Spotify.

17:19 Podcasts can be considered offline, as they are often listened to without a computer.

20:41 The dangers of seeking attention on social media.

24:17 It's good to copy what works in your industry ... sometimes.

28:34 Automates the guest booking and scheduling process.

29:35 Upcoming podcast episodes, Part 1: setting the stage for interviews with guests. Part 2: technical recording 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 154 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 auidience?

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

Topics covered in this episode:​

• The importance of focusing on creating helpful content for your podcast audience
• Exploring the use of AI in automating daily podcasts and its impact on podcasting
• Addressing email blockage issues and providing solutions to make sure your messages are delivered
• Discussing the relaxed lives of elite achievers and how it can benefit podcasters
• Tips for improving guest selection and interview skills
• The significance of having a supportive network of friends in podcasting (and the types of people you need to have a successful podcast)
• Highlighting useful tools for podcast automation and scheduling guests.

Episode Timestamps:​

[00:02:18] Podcast episode review on School of Podcasting

[00:04:53] Asking repetitive questions to experienced individuals is unlikely to yield unique answers.

[00:09:09] AI Podcasting? An option to use it ... notifying users of ongoing crimes shortly after they occur.

[00:12:15] People with years of podcasting experience don't always improve 

[00:14:47] Listening and editing yourself provides a different perspective for improvement. 

[00:18:51] Producers and collaboratosr are rarely seen in podcasting.

[00:20:05] Someone who believes in your podcast and helps make it real.

[00:23:17] Book Like a Boss automates guest booking and scheduling, preventing missed interviews by sending automatic reminders.

[00:26:00] Coming soon ... Dan Hughley of Focusrite discusses recording techniques and improving audio quality.

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 153 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 auidience?

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

Topics covered in this episode:​

• Live fast, die fast: Exploring the volatility of online communities and the importance of keeping listeners engaged by changing up your podcast content.
• The risk of sticking to a repetitive format in podcasting and the importance of creating variation for the audience's engagement.
• The opportunity to test changes in your podcast during NaPodPomo (National Podcast Post Month) and how it can benefit both you and your audience.
• Introducing Big Podcast Daily, a new daily newsletter providing valuable advice on podcasting, audience growth, hosting, messaging, and monetization.
• An SEO trick for podcasters – only $25!
• Grammar Girl
• The world's oldest podcaster and her journey in podcasting, starting at the age of 69.

Episode Timestamps:​

[00:04:31] An efficient format for mass producing episodes (but listeners hate it)

[00:09:32] Singer vs. podcast host

[00:11:00] Free course to help you be a better podcast host

[00:16:16] Podcast success on YouTube and money earned in podcasting – Is it worth the effort?

[00:18:33] How to stand out ... Wolfman Jack, old school radio DJs

[00:21:37] The reality television star with a brand new podcast

[00:24:05] Personal coaching program for podcasters

The Newsletter for Podcasters

• Big Podcast Insider - Podcasting Newsletter ​

This episode 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 152 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.​

In this episode of Build A Big Podcast, I discuss NaPodPoMo (National Podcast Post Month), which challenges podcasters to produce 30 podcast episodes in 30 days during the month of November. I share my own experience with NaPodPoMo and how it changed the direction of both my podcast and books.

There are several benefits to participating in the NaPodPoMo, including having a place to test new ideas, recording techniques, and segments. Yeah, you could do this at any time on your own, but one of the things that makes this challenge great is the community around it. Getting 30 episodes out in 30 days isn't a cakewalk and it's nice to be able to connect with others who understand what you're doing (and why you're doing it) as well as give you advice and recommendations should you find yourself stuck.

This is a great opportunity for podcasters (or people who want to podcast) to try new things – new segments, new topics, new ways of recording, etc.

Topics covered in this episode:​

• The importance of focusing on growing your podcast and building an audience.
• The value of creating a message that resonates with listeners and has the potential to make an impact.
• The potential drawbacks of seeking famous guests for your podcast.
• Tips for conducting successful interviews, including how to make the most of limited time with a guest.
• Stretching a short interview to create a longer, more valuable episode.
• Strategies for asking for what you want during an interview.
• The significance of providing helpful content that is unique and interesting to your audience.

Episode Timestamps:​

[00:01:23] Remote podcasting with great technology available for all.

[00:04:54] Tips for successful short interviews in podcasts.

[00:08:43] Clever party ideas for podcast events.

[00:10:57] Love him or hate him? Nobody is in the middle ...

[00:15:39] Self-editing helps podcasters hire, host better.

[00:17:40] Costs rise as production expands. How to make money podcasting.

The Newsletter for Podcasters

• Big Podcast Insider - Podcasting Newsletter ​

This episode 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 151 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.​