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)

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)

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)

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)

In this episode of Build A Big Podcast, dive into the power of insider language, strategies for audience growth, and crucial tips for preventing hearing loss as a podcaster ...

Episode Topics

1. Insider Language

   : Engaging and retaining podcast audience

2. Audience Building

   : Quality followers over quantity

3. Podcasting Conferences

   : Critiques and recommendations for improvement

4. Hearing Loss

   : Risks from frequent headphone use

5. Monetization

   : Big Podcast AMP and diverse income streams

6. Content Quality

   : Emotional impact and engaging delivery

7. Automated Scheduling

   : Streamlining guest booking processes

You want these links ...

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

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00 "Belonging" is crucial for podcast growth
• 04:23 People share podcasts with like-minded insiders
• 08:51 Expand podcast revenue with diverse skills
• 10:03 Quality followers - prioritize interaction over quantity
• 13:09 Quality podcast plus promotion attracts an audience effectively
• 16:04 Quality audio crucial for overcoming situational disabilities
• 21:57 "Unconferencing" and attending events even with affordability issues
• 25:10 Opioid addiction affected his hearing severely ...
• 25:41 Protect your hearing; fake eardrum may be an option for the future
• 31:32 Understanding jargon can be difficult for listeners - here is what to do!
• 35:02 Subscribe and never miss an episode

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 206 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)

Unlock the secrets to creating impactful podcast content, celebrity influence, and smart recording techniques with David Hooper on this episode of Build a Big Podcast ...

Episode Topics

1. Celebrity Interviews and Content Strategy
2. Podcast Growth Techniques and Stages
3. Importance of Community Engagement
4. Enhancing Audio Quality on Budget
5. Consistency and Quality in Content Creation
6. Ideation and Research for Podcast Topics
7. Effective Marketing and Monetization Strategies

You want these links ...

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

Episode Timestamps

• 04:09 Valuable artists and celebrities differs from marketing "influencers"
• 08:32 Focus on evergreen topics over fleeting trends
• 11:36 Balance creativity and strategy in podcasting decisions
• 13:47 Build your audience; they will grow organically
• 17:22 Use pop filter or speak at angle
• 21:41 Low-cost ad space for independent podcasters
• 23:06 Helping podcasters succeed and monetize.

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 205 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)

Unlock your podcasting potential with tips on rebranding, leveraging Podcasting 2.0, improving audio quality, and an opportunity to join the 30-Day Solo Podcasting Challenge for a special price (see cart and use coupon FINAL27) in this episode of Build a Big Podcast with David Hooper.

Episode Topics

1. General Advice

   • Importance of giving listeners something to care about and something they'll miss if it's gone.

2. Sponsor Advertisement: Riverside.fm

   • Features and benefits of Riverside.fm

   • Overview of multitrack recording and its importance.

   • Free trial and discount code (BIGPODCAST) for Riverside.fm.

3. 30-Day Solo Podcast Challenge

   • Details about joining the 30-day challenge.

   • Benefits: improving hosting skills, clarifying your message, and working with David Hooper and Big Podcast

4. Temporary Rebranding

   • Example of Goldfish crackers rebranding to Chilean Sea Bass

   • How to use creative rebranding to attract attention to your podcast

5. Podcasting 2.0

   • Overview of the concept and its current state

   • Benefits: listener messages, direct donations, advanced RSS features

   • Mention of players supporting Podcasting 2.0:

     • Podverse

     • Fountain

6. Technical Tips: Audio Editing

   • How to make your voice sound better in Audacity

   • Sequence of editing steps: EQ, normalize, compress, normalize

7. Listener Engagement

   • Story about an April Fool's joke that didn't go over well

   • Discussion on how passive listeners often do not interact but still care

   • Encouragement to consider every listener, even those who don’t actively engage

8. Internet Domain Importance

   • Story about the disappearance of the ".io" domain extension

   • Importance of controlling your domain name and using domain-based RSS wrappers

You want these links ...

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

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00 Halloween enables authenticity; use it for podcasting
• 04:14 Postproduction enhances podcast transitions and content delivery
• 08:32 Podcasting 2.0 offers substantial, evolving upgrades
• 13:31 Audacity adds nondestructive editing (and how to improve your voice)
• 17:01 Each email/comment you get represents many unspoken voices
• 20:22 Domain control isn't always guaranteed; consider alternatives
• 23:25 Join the 30-Day Solo Podcast Challenge 

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 204 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 discusses the importance of cutting out the middleman, mastering solo podcasting, and building rapport with guests, featuring tips from his own experiences and lessons from legendary hosts like Howard Stern.

Introduction

• Introduction to Alibaba and AliExpress
  • Caution against buying microphones
  • Comparison with Amazon
• Purpose of the podcast
  • Growing your podcast
  • Attracting more listeners
  • Making sharable content

Cutting Out the Middleman

• Personal anecdote on using Alibaba
  • Recommendation against purchasing microphones there
• The World's Oldest Podcaster ... Zita Christian
  • Starting podcasting at 69 years old
  • Overcoming initial challenges
  • Importance of self-editing and perseverance
  • Hiring out tasks vs. personal involvement

30-Day Solo Podcast Challenge

• Details about the challenge
  • Importance and difficulty of solo podcasting
  • Process overview
  • Offering personal coaching and support
  • Encouragement to join and contact for a discount

Big Podcast AMP

• Introduction to audio monetization program
  • Personal coaching for audience growth
  • 30 Day Solo Podcast Challenge is included
  • Further coaching options and discount details

You Are Not Late

• Debunking the myth of being too late to start podcasting
• Encouragement to start now

Rapport Building with Howard Stern

• Masterclass on building rapport
  • Kamala Harris interview example
  • Howard Stern's evolution as a host
  • Practical advice on pre-interviews and guest comfort

PodIndy Event

• Information about PodIndy in Indianapolis
  • Focus on independent podcasting
  • Learning opportunities and networking
  • Mention of notable attendees including Dave Jackson

The World is a Quiet Place (Until You Hit Record)

• Addressing background noise in recording
  • Personal anecdote involving a guest's dog
  • Integrating unexpected sounds into the show
  • Ethics and strategy for handling distractions

You want these links ...

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

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00 Cutting middlemen boosts podcast market strategy
• 04:12 Podcasting in 70s, inspiring tech adaptation
• 07:39 Quick solo podcasting tips for improvement
• 11:01 Podcasting easier now (and not too late)
• 14:46 Learn solo podcasting, grow audience in 30 days
• 16:48 Howard Stern: top radio interviewer now
• 21:11 Dog barking during radio session
• 23:49 Work with distractions (unless they're too disruptive)
• 26:17 Join 30-Day Podcast Challenge ...

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 203 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)

Uncover the crucial steps to building a lasting podcast audience, the impact of consistent content creation, and strategies for leveraging social media and interactive tools to boost engagement and growth in this episode of Build a Big Podcast!

Big Ideas in this Episode

1. Project Impact and Persistence

   : Slow starts, steady growth

2. Building an Audience

   : Leveraging guest appearances

3. Social Media and Interactivity

   : Engaging through platforms

4. Sales and Distribution Insight

   : Importance of sales channels

5. Independence and Control

   : Retaining content rights

6. Success Stories

   : Examples of gradual success

7. Platform Preferences

   : Reaching audiences effectively

You want these links ...

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

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00 Learn how to grow and monetize your podcast with insights from Build A Big Podcast
• 07:53 Releasing projects can significantly impact your life, but not all will gain traction
• 11:55 Continual promotion leads to growth; sustained interest is key
• 14:51 Self-publishing offers control over pricing, content, and royalties, unlike traditional publishers
• 18:57 Podcasting gains respect as Kamala Harris appears on Call Her Daddy to reach younger, less politically active voters in a tight election
• 22:27 Getting political on your podcast is risky due to tribalism; only do so if it aligns with your niche
• 25:28 Creative careers require long-term effort. Audiences value longevity and understand the need for breaks to sustain creativity
• 26:33 Take time off for the holidays if needed, but consider creating content during this period when there's less competition. Prioritize self-care.
• 30:15 Subscribe to Build A Big Podcast at bigpodcast.com/subscribe for instant episode updates

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 202 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 overlooked podcasting skills, Pixar storytelling rules, and all about new tools to help grow your podcast audience and improve content quality in this episode of Build a Big Podcast!

Big Ideas in this Episode

1. Overlooked Podcasting Skills Skills developed through podcasting
2. Pixar Story Rules Engaging content and character development
3. Interview Flexibility Adapting to unexpected interview directions
4. Podcast Ads - Handling contracts and ad scripting
5. Sonic Dash Competition - a 48-hour audio storytelling contest
6. Audience Growth Strategies to broaden your listener base 

You want these links ...

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

Episode Timestamps

• 04:10 Heroes gain powers ... what about you?
• 06:49 Your origin story
• 11:49 Consistent publishing gains listeners in crowded market
• 15:13 Focus on retention
• 18:47 Interactions, conversations, and diplomatically saying no
• 25:54 Skilled interviewers adapt, listen, improve interviews
• 27:38 Notejoy simplifies collaborative podcast production
• 29:52 Podcasting can change the world

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 201 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)