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

How China tariffs could impact your gear, viral death clock promotions, smarter cross-promotion strategies, storytelling upgrades, and the hilarious bad podcast guest action figure in this episode of Build a Big Podcast ...

Why You Should Listen

• Why China's tariff hike could quietly kill your podcast dreams unless you act now

• The death clock trick: what you can learn from a "dark" graphic to make your show go viral (and build your email list)

• Five storytelling secrets that hook listeners so they crave every episode (and beg for more)

• Why your competitors want you to ignore the silent weapon hidden in simple quiz tools

• How to legally "hijack" other podcasters' fans without making enemies (or swapping feeds)

• The overlooked danger of supply chain chaos: how even your "Made in USA" mic could skyrocket in price overnight

• The "joint giveaway" secret: how a hunger for free stuff turns strangers into loyal subscribers

• The envy-inducing magic of stealing credibility … by swapping genuine testimonials instead of ads

• Why "feed swaps" might secretly be killing your hard-won audience—and 3 sneaky swaps pros use instead

• How to seduce big-name guests with a single irresistible offer they can't refuse

• The embarrassing mistakes that make you look like a clueless newbie—and how to turn them into status and power

• The action-figure test: Is your next podcast guest a hidden time bomb or goldmine of content?

• Why the "sticky middle" of your guests' stories fuels listener addiction (and gluttony for more episodes)

• The untapped lust for exclusivity—how to use mysterious bonus content to drive audience greed and sharing

You want these links ...

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

Episode Timestamps

• [00:03:27] Will China tariffs wreck your podcasting setup? Why "just raise your prices" isn't the answer you think it is!

• [00:04:53] The fridge fiasco: How a tariff-induced 13-day wait for a refrigerator foreshadows what might hit your podcast gear soon

• [00:06:28] The "tape sync" days: How podcasters used to hire strangers to record guests in other cities—and why you might actually be getting a bargain today

• [00:09:02] The viral death clock: How an oddly morbid Instagram meme can juice your podcast's visibility with the power of quizzes

• [00:11:40] Why full-on feed swaps could sabotage your subscribers—and clever, less-annoying ways to cross-promote your show for fast growth

• [00:14:51] The LinkedIn law of reciprocity: How writing testimonials for others can flood your inbox with glowing words—and why it works for podcasters too

• [00:21:34] What makes a "bad podcast guest" and the underestimated magic of "the sticky middle" story—plus, the hilarious Bad Guest Action Figure you've got to hear about

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 228 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)

Late-night recording realities, must-know rules for standout podcast artwork, creative promo ideas, and lessons from HBO's production magic in this episode of Build a Big Podcast ...

Why You Should Listen

• The 5 unbreakable rules for podcast artwork that hook strangers and make your show impossible to ignore (break these rules and watch your show disappear into oblivion!)
• Why putting your face on your podcast art could be the #1 mistake crushing your downloads—even if you think you're famous in your niche!
• How to create irresistible, thumb-stopping visuals—no art degree, big budget, or fancy tools required
• The hidden power of "less is more" that magnetically draws listeners while your competitors wave their brand in desperation
• The secret font trick that keeps your show out of the "scroll and forget" graveyard (ignore it and only your mom will squint to read your title)
• The color contrast code that screams "LISTEN NOW!" to casual browsers, even if they'd previously sworn off podcasts for life
• How to use a swipe-worthy podcast promo so contagious, fans share it for you (your show spreads like gossip at a high school cafeteria!)
• Why memes might be the most criminally overlooked path to podcast virality—and how to hijack them to seduce new listeners
• The quick and greedy way to turn a podcast "time-waster" into a lead-generating machine—influencers and bestselling authors are using it right under your nose
• This "graphic recording" hack can morph your episodes into art people crave and share… even if your show is "just audio"
• How to unlock the untapped creative genius hiding in podcasting's earliest days—unplug, go analog, and watch your show explode with edge and personality
• The HBO "million dollar intro" lesson: Why money and fancy tech are overrated, but limitation could turn you into a podcasting legend almost overnight
• Discover the anti-perfection story formula—makes even audio stumbles feel like genius, while "over-editors" drive away their audience in droves
• The simple 3-step creativity trigger any podcaster can use—turning technological envy into your secret weapon for audio power
• Why podcasting is the new business card … and how you can dominate your space while others look and sound exactly the same

You want these links ...

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

Episode Timestamps

• [04:59] Why you should almost never put your photo on your podcast artwork—even if you're "known in your niche"
• [07:10] The hard rule for podcast cover art: No more than five words—here's why
• [09:17] The secret danger of text on top of photos: How most podcasters ruin their first impression
• [10:37] The meme-inspired podcast promo strategy you can steal—even if you have zero graphic design skills
• [13:43] What making a 10-second HBO intro in 1982 can teach you about forcing creativity with limited tools
• [14:55] The Bob Barker microphone limitation: How to spark breakthrough interviews with fewer resources
• [21:33] Why everybody having a podcast is actually your opportunity—and the video that proves it

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 227 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 podcasting authenticity, how AI is reshaping accents, the importance of staying true to your voice, and the opportunities in hyper-local content for podcasters

in this episode of Build a Big Podcast ...

Episode Topics

• How to protect your podcast's brand from being hijacked (or even stolen)
• What is authenticity in podcasting? Not what most people think ...
• Using AI to decode your audience? You should.
• Local media is dying. This is an opportunity for podcasters!
• How to embrace your authentic voice ... really
• Podcasting shortcuts you can use to simplify your production
• Are you in control your podcast's narrative?

Why You Should Listen

• Why chasing authenticity could be your downfall in podcasting!
• The deceptive world of social media and how to see through the smoke and mirrors!
• How to be truly transparent without bragging about being transparent!
• Discover the secret behind my most successful podcast ever! (HINT: It was hyper-local!)
• Use the death of local media to grow your audience!
• AI knows who listens to your podcast – do you?
• Is your podcast missing its true audience? AI will let you know ...
• Indian accents to American in seconds – a controversial new AI tool explained!
• Radio voices are dead? What listeners want now ...
• Michelle Obama's bold podcasting move: Did she just wipe out an indie podcast brand?
• How big businesses hunt indie podcast ideas!
• Myth debunked: You don't need a professional studio to have a killer podcast!
• What listeners actually want to hear from your podcast!
• Why your podcast shouldn't just copy the big guys, and what to do instead!

You want these links ...

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

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00 Podcast Growth Tips
• 04:09 Editing Enhances Message Clarity (and Attracts Listeners)
• 08:21 How to Maximize Local Impact with Podcasts
• 10:59 AI Tools for Podcasters
• 15:35 "Radio Voice Bias" and AI Tool's to Change Your Accent
• 17:25 Celebrity Podcasts are Overshadowing Indies
• 22:20 How to Protect Your Podcast Brand
• 23:17 DIY Trademark Tips and Podcasting Insights

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 226 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 shares tips for podcasters on filling unused ad space with public service announcements, using tools like Zoom's PodTrak 2, and automating episode notes and social media, all aimed at growing your podcast audience and monetizing your content in this episode of Build a Big Podcast ...

Episode Topics

• Transform Your Podcast with Public Announcements
• USB Mic Innovations
• From College Radio to Podcasting: Leveraging Old Techniques for Modern Success
• Boost Podcast Growth and Income with Proven Marketing and Production Tips
• Affordable Podcasting: Create Great Content with Just $100
• Unleash the Power of Automated Episode Notes and Social Media
• Elevate Your Podcast Quality with Top Gear
• Mastering Sponsorship Deals to Monetize Your Podcast Effectively
• Building Identity and Community Around Your Podcast's Unique Voice
• How to Streamline Your Podcast Workflow
• Overcoming Podcast Challenges: From Equipment Choices to Audience Engagement
• Unused ad space for PSAs
• Newsletter and podcast synergy
• Podcast tools and equipment
• Affordable podcast production
• Sponsorship and monetization strategies
• Identity through podcasting
• Automating podcast tasks

You want these links ...

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

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00 Podcasting Insights
• 06:04 Seeking Inspiring Podcast Stories
• 09:09 Automate Your Episode Notes
• 14:41 Prioritize Immediate Podcast Payments
• 18:34 From Zero to Impact
• 19:21 Addiction and Transactional Relationships
• 22:34 Monetize Your Podcast Easily

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 225 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)

Learn how to harness the power of audio to grow your podcast audience, connect with Gen Z listeners, and drive engagement with effective storytelling and marketing strategies in this episode of Build a Big Podcast ...

Episode Topics

• Video vs. Audio Podcasting
• Marketing for Podcasters
• Gen Z's Audio Preferences
• Podcast Monetization Strategies
• Storytelling Techniques
• Tools for Podcast Production
• Editing in Podcasting

You want these links ...

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

Episode Timestamps

• 03:06 Podcast Growth and Monetization Guide
• 08:11 Boost Podcast Reach & Revenue
• 11:31 Reviews on Amazon
• 14:38 Strengthening Content with Repetition
• 16:24 Quick Editing Trick
• 19:22 Should You Start a Podcast?

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 224 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 strategies for podcast success, highlighting the balance between quality and quantity, the dangers of the "podcasting treadmill," and tips for boosting engagement and finding your voice as a podcaster in this episode of Build a Big Podcast ...

Episode Topics

• Enhancing radio voice with cardio
• Importance of practice and confidence
• The podcasting treadmill explained
• Focusing on quality over quantity
• Engaging podcast titles
• Alternatives to Mailchimp
• Power of community and meetups

You want these links ...

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

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00 AI-Powered Podcasting Solution
• 03:24 "Podcasting Treadmill"Explained
• 08:25 Focus: Quality Over Quantity
• 12:40 Edit First 100 Episodes Yourself
• 14:21 Redefining Success in Podcasting
• 16:41 Experimentation in Podcasting
• 21:34 "Enhance" Content for Better Podcasting Results
• 24:50 Networking for Podcasting Success
• 27:36 Patience ...
• 30:11 Action Over Ideas
• 33:24 Mailchimp Alternative for Podcasters
• 36:25 Free Community Meeting Spaces Available
• 40:28 Subscribe to Build the Big Podcast

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 223 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)

The rise of AI as a tool for podcasters, the myth of YouTube as a podcast killer, the power of community, and shares tips on increasing podcast traffic while encouraging a focus on creativity over algorithms in this episode of Build a Big Podcast ...

Episode Topics

• AI in podcasting
• The concept of a "podcast killer"
• YouTube's impact on podcasts
• Building a podcast community
• Using Riverside for podcasting
• Understanding "EEAT" for content creation.
• Differentiating YouTube and podcasting strategies

You want these links ...

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

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00 Build a Big Podcast Insights
• 05:03 How to Prove You're Authentic
• 06:21 Building Expertise and Authority
• 10:11 Power of Focused Audience Attention
• 14:31 Selective Booking Decisions
• 16:22 Followers' Influence is Dying
• 20:15 Creating Without Expectations

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 222 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 explores the importance of showing up big for every podcast, harnessing AI for editing, building genuine audience connections, and validating your podcast ideas for success in this episode of Build a Big Podcast ...

Episode Topics

• Perform every episode like a big show
• Marketing strategies for podcast growth
• AI's impact on podcasting and opportunities
• Importance of personal connections in podcasting
• Multi-platform presence for audience expansion
• Validating podcast ideas effectively
• Relationship advice for podcasters

You want these links ...

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

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00 Perform Every Gig Like a Stadium
• 04:21 AI Lacks "Personal Connection"
• 08:17 Your Podcast Community and Unique Voice
• 10:44 Embrace Interviews for Growth
• 12:56 Monetize Message: Audience, Impact, Profit
• 18:21 Broadcast Radio and Podcast Isolation

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 221 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 shares tips for podcasters on how to grow their audience, improve interview skills, and monetize their shows, highlighting the importance of life experience, consistency, and creating value for listeners in this episode of Build a Big Podcast ...

Episode Topics

• Developing podcast interview skills
• Building a podcast audience
• Maximizing podcast equipment efficiency
• Utilizing Riverside.fm for recordings
• Personal growth as a podcast host
• Importance of listener interaction

You want these links ...

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

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00 Podcast Interviewing School
• 03:49 Prince's Studio
• 09:13 Do You Look at Past Progress?
• 12:46 Dementia and Empathy
• 15:41 Perseverance
• 16:35 Authentic Vulnerability in Podcasting
• 21:23 Start Podcast with 25 Episodes?
• 23:05 Podcasting Sales Strategy and Longevity Insights
• 28:50 Podcast Training and Collaboration

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 220 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 shares a personal story about Seal to illustrate the importance of valuing your true fans and making meaningful connections, even if your audience isn't massive yet.

You want these links ...

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

The Newsletter for Podcasters

• Big Podcast Insider - Weekly Podcasting Newsletter ​

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)