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

David Hooper shares tips on avoiding podcast burnout, leveraging guest booking tools, and future podcast trends, while reflecting on the evolution of podcast technology and celebrating community engagement in this episode of Build a Big Podcast ...

Episode Topics

1. Balancing guest appearances to avoid burnout and streamline scheduling with an automated podcast guest booking tool
2. Securing podcast feeds and better security practices, including using a personal domain and password managers like 1Password and Bitwarden
3. Feedback on Conan O'Brien's transition to a video podcast and the continued importance of audio-only formats for audience connection
4. Comparing past and present podcasting, highlighting the evolution from analog to digital and the democratization of the medium
5. Predictions for podcasting trends in the new year, including the rise of video content, analytics, and balancing production with promotion
6. Encouraging community-building through local meetups and live events to foster engagement among listeners
7. Emphasizing the importance of understanding your podcast audience and creating engaging content to stand out in an increasingly crowded field

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

Episode Timestamps

• 04:11 Audio distribution was labor-intensive before digital age
• 06:59 Early Internet freedom, less competition, but ...
• 10:46 Finding unique voices or big-name guests
• 15:28 Roundup format: Experts share predictions, drive traffic
• 17:56 Many podcasters are unsuccessful on YouTube platform
• 20:31 Executives increasingly using multichannel media for marketing
• 24:56 Hyper-local podcasts connect (and profit) effectively
• 26:55 Guests must have compelling content for podcasts
• 30:56 Use your own domain and secure your feed
• 34:52 Get a podcast booking system to make guest booking easier
• 35:57 Free online storage for your podcasts

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 212 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 affordable podcasting gear, listener growth strategies, and exclusive discounts on podcasting gear from David Hooper in this episode of Build a Big Podcast ...

Episode Topics

• Podcasting During the Holidays: Importance of maintaining connections with listeners through podcasting during the holiday season.

• Big Podcast Insider Newsletter: Overview of items covered in newsletter issue number 211, including podcast studio setup, gaining more listeners on Apple Podcasts, and improving microphone audio.

• Affordable Podcast Studio Setup: How to create a podcast studio for $158 with specific equipment recommendations like the Shure SM58 microphone and Focusrite Vocaster One interface.

• Apple Podcasts Category Personalization: New updates to Apple Podcasts that make it easier for listeners to discover podcasts based on their favorite categories.

• Localizing Your Content: Importance of modifying your podcast delivery and content to better fit the needs and preferences of your audience.

• Microphone Modification: How to make a $139 AKG Perception microphone sound like a $3500 Neumann U 87 mic with a simple $10 modification.

• Unlimited Music Licensing: Information on obtaining unlimited licensing for over 300,000 music tracks and sound effects for a one-time fee.

You want these links ...

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

Episode Timestamps

• 03:52 Mic with monitor and gain controls simplifies recording
• 06:48 Make your podcast compete using "life experience" and quality audio
• 11:40 Adapt delivery to fit audience needs - this is how McDonald's got so big!
• 15:32 DEAL >>> Unlimited music downloads: $99 one-time, worldwide license
• 17:31 Affordable, reliable microphone choice for field use
• 19:46 Free backup storage - protect your podcast recordings!

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 211 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 holiday edition of Build a Big Podcast, David Hooper discusses the polarized responses to podcasters' work, emphasizing the importance of evaluating feedback and staying true to your vision.

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)

Click the icon below to listen.

Discover the essential writing framework that can transform your podcasting skills, boost audience engagement, and drive podcast growth in this episode of Build a Big Podcast ...

Episode Topics

• Writing Framework for Podcasters
• Persuasion, Clarity of Thought, and Idea Generation
• Tactics for Better Podcasting
• Connecting with Listeners
• Affordable Podcasting Setup (I'm recording on it!)
• Twitter's relevance, building audiences, and podcast growth tools
• Adapting to Changes in Technology and Audience Expectations
• Twitter Community Dynamics and Bluesky
• Seth Godin Turned Me Down!
• Email Template to get More Reviews
• Free Podcast Scheduling Tool
• Avoiding a generic radio announcer voice
• Humorous Podcaster Stereotypes

You want these links ...

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

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00 Creative projects don't always bring in a ton of money ...
• 03:31 Easy setup and sound editing for podcasts
• 07:08 Twitter's decline mirrors all community instability
• 10:10 Fun site for audience growth on Bluesky
• 13:14 Seth Godin turned me down ...
• 18:16 How to improve production clarity and quality
• 19:24 Flexible interviews, adaptable ideas, attentive approach
• 24:04 Release episodes quickly; clarity over perfection and complexity
• 26:48 Grow your podcast audience with Big Podcast AMP
• 28:53 How to subscribe to the 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 210 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 how to enhance your podcasting journey with David Hooper's top tips on guest selection, balancing your time, and perfecting your craft

in this episode of Build a Big Podcast ...

Episode Topics

1. Podcast Growth Strategies
2. Podcast Recording Equipment
3. Mental Health for Podcasters
4. Importance of Guest Selection
5. Benefits of Monologue Podcasting
6. Your Podcasting Progress
7. Podcasting During the Holiday Season

You want these links ...

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

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00 Tips to improve your podcast
• 05:05 Monologue podcasts reduce dependency on guests
• 07:06 Blue Sky
• 09:42 Reflect on progress; you're improving significantly
• 14:12 Progress incrementally; focus on present actions

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)

Click the icon below to listen.

Discover affordable podcasting gear and essential tips for honing your skills in this episode of Build a Big Podcast ...

Episode Topics

1. Importance of skill development over equipment acquisition for better podcasting.
2. Inexpensive tool recommendations for podcasting, including alternatives to Canva and under $20 promotional tools.
3. Use of a free tool for guest agreements to ensure quality and legal clarity.
4. Insight on improving podcast performance by mastering raw, unedited recordings.
5. The significance of creating a memorable podcast graphic.
6. A tool that provides a mind map of your podcast audio to enhance listener engagement and SEO.
7. Access to a vast database of journalists, publishers, and podcasts for increasing media coverage of your podcast.

You want these links ...

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

Episode Timestamps

• 04:57 Focus on skills, not equipment, for podcasting
• 06:32 Perform well live (without relying on editing)
• 09:53 Improve your podcasting skills
• 15:38 The "Guest Agreement"
• 17:29 Sponsorship deal?
• 21:29 Connect with active podcasters and resources

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 209 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 how to grow your podcast inch by inch with actionable tips on audience engagement, better hosting, and powerful tools in this episode of Build a Big Podcast ...

Episode Topics

1. Incremental growth for success
2. Podcast marketing strategies
3. Small steps, big results
4. Hosting and "guest connection" techniques
5. Audience engagement tips

You want these links ...

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

Episode Timestamps

• 03:52 Q&A series about podcast growth and improvement
• 08:13 Evel Knievel toy video gains Instagram traction (and helps my interview)
• 10:20 When to prioritize audio over video
• 13:08 How to create a personal connection with podcast listeners
• 17:49 Automate podcast guest booking
• 19:28 You're not subscribed? Let's fix that ...

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 208 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 ten powerful strategies to overcome podcasting ruts, connect authentically with your audience, and rejuvenate your content in this episode of Build a Big Podcast.

In this episode ...

• Overcoming ruts and rejuvenating podcasts by changing routines and connecting personally with audiences
• David Hooper's philosophy on podcasting and varied content delivery to maintain listener engagement
• Ten strategies to combat podcasting apathy, including personal connections and direct listener interaction
• Practical tips for engaging listeners in person and experimenting with different podcast formats
• Emphasis on focusing on strengths in one format to achieve success, akin to the Podcasting Hall of Fame
• Technological advancements and affordable equipment options for enhancing podcast production
• Community building around podcasts and the utilization of listener feedback for content improvement

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.

Struggling with podcast burnout or apathy? In this episode of Build a Big Podcast, David Hooper shares actionable tips to re-engage with your audience and refresh your content.

in the latest episode of Build a Big Podcast.

In this episode ...

• Maintaining podcast momentum
• Overcoming burnout and apathy
• The importance of audience engagement
• Really talking to your listeners
• Refreshing your podcast content
• Building a community around your podcast
• Seeking listener feedback

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.

Unlock the secrets of voice-over gigs, podcast growth, and insider stories, plus exclusive tools and tips in this episode of Build a Big Podcast ...

Episode Topics

1. Voice over opportunities
2. Podcast marketing tips
3. Audience growth strategies
4. Twitter vs. Blue Sky
5. Microphone recommendations
6. Political podcast reach
7. Podcast monetization programs

1. Opening Remarks

• Personal anecdotes about voice-over gigs

  • Audiobooks vs. Commercials

  • VeggieTales and knockoff of "King of the Hill" experience

• Introduction to the podcast's purpose and audience

2. Voice-Over Gigs: How to Get Them

• The story of the Budweiser frogs

  • An ad agency employee gets the gig unexpectedly

• The story of the AOL "You've Got Mail" voice

  • Recording to cassette, wife's connection to the company

• Corona beer holiday commercial

  • A guitarist hired to whistle instead

• Importance of saying yes to opportunities

3. Key Announcements and Housekeeping

• Introduction to the podcast's sponsor, Riverside.fm

  • Features: Studio quality recordings, multi-track recording, AI editing tools

  • Promo code for listeners: "bigpodcast" for 15% off

• Explanation of sound cues used in the episode

4. Blue Sky and Twitter Updates

• Blue Sky adds 1,000,000 new users in a week

  • Creator of Blue Sky is also the creator of Twitter

  • Comparison to Twitter, user engagement, advice to claim usernames

• Mass exodus from Twitter

  • Austrian Airlines' and The Guardian's creative exits

  • Use of Tweet Deleter to cleanse old posts

5. Podcasting During Elections

• Impact of podcasts in elections

• Audience reach statistics for Trump and Harris via podcasts

  • Trump: 23,500,000 Americans reached

  • Kamala Harris: 6,400,000 Americans reached

• Reflections on podcasting's reach and specialized audience

6. The Best Microphone for Podcasting

• Humorous take on microphone debates among podcasters

• Advice on making a cheap mic sound better

  • Quiet recording environment

  • Proper distance from the mic

• David's setup: using an Electro-Voice RE20

7. Tribute to Elwood Edwards

• Death of Elwood Edwards, the voice of AOL's "You've Got Mail"

  • Historical significance of his voice work

  • Recording on cassette thanks to his wife's suggestion

• Other famed voice-over stories

  • Encouraging listeners to share their voice-over stories

8. Big Podcast AMP

• Explanation of Big Podcast AMP program

  • Goals: Grow podcast audience, increase engagement, monetize skills

• Invitation to reach out for personal coaching

9. Closing Remarks and Additional Resources

• Classified ads for tools to help podcasters

  • Book Like a Boss for automating guest booking

  • AudioPen app for converting thoughts into podcast outlines

• Subscription links for the podcast

  • Links for iPhone, Android, and RSS feed

You want these links ...

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

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00 This podcast episode is sponsored by Riverside.fm, offering studio-quality remote recordings, multitrack and text-based editing, AI tools for removing silences and filler words, and creating magic clip highlights
• 05:56 Share your stories via Mastodon, Blue Sky, or threads. Keep showing up for more opportunities
• 06:53 Seize opportunities; say yes
• 11:14 Twitter - Community collapse imminent; prepare to leave soon
• 13:31 Connect with experts or authors via interviews
• 17:30 Unexpected success stories

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 207 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.