Build a Big Podcast - Marketing for Podcasters (A Podcast on Podcasting)

What does Taylor Swift have to do with your first 1000 podcast subscribers?

When you look at how she grew her own audience (and reputation), a lot.

In this episode, I talk about a simple way to grow your podcast audience. So simple that many people skip it. But that's because it's also difficult and will require you to do some work as well as face rejection.

Is it worth it? Yeah.

Like to read? More thoughts on getting your first 1000 podcast subscribers.

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Want more? Big Podcast Insider is a weekly newsletter on podcasting. If you like the content of this episode, you can subscribe here to it in a newsletter format – it's free and you can unsubscribe at any time with a single click.​

Topics covered in this episode:​

• Taking advantage of the post-pandemic and post-social media urges
• Organize a meetup related to your podcast topic
• "Special effects" in podcasting – not necessary (if the storyline is compelling)
• Rules of engagement for interviews
• The importance of avoiding podcast and social media "shovelware"
• Different content for Facebook vs. podcasting
• Directly connecting and engaging with the audience through live events
• Meta's guide for Reels 
• Ensuring your guests sound good
• Adapting questions if certain topics are off-limits
• How Dolly Parton handles "personal" questions

Episode Timestamps:​

[00:01:27] Tips, best practices, and classified ads.

[00:04:57] Meetups: The ultimate audience growth strategy.

[00:06:58] Good storyline beats special effects in movies (and in podcasts).

[00:11:24] Avoid shovelware. Customize your content for each outlet.

[00:15:22] How to format your podcast episodes.

[00:17:42] Rules for podcast guests.

[00:19:42] Boost your podcast audience, buzz, and revenue.

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 139 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.​

Pre-interviews are an important part of producing a great podcast. You know that. 

But sometimes guests push back on doing a pre-interview, thinking they're not important or otherwise not needed. 

While it’s understandable that some guests may feel confident enough to wing it or may simply "not have the time" for a pre-interview, it’s crucial to explain why this step is so important.

Here are some strategies you might find helpful:

• Emphasize on Mutual Benefit: Explain that a pre-interview is not just beneficial for the host but also for the guest. It allows them to clarify their thoughts, prepare their anecdotes, and understand what to expect from the conversation.

• Assure Them It’s Not a Rehearsal: Some guests may feel that a pre-interview takes away from the spontaneity of the podcast. Reassure them that it’s not about scripting the conversation, but rather about setting a loose framework.

• Promote It as a Time Saver: A well-prepared interview often takes less time than an unprepared one. Detailing this might appeal to guests who are concerned about time commitments.

• Highlight Previous Successes: Share examples of past episodes where pre-interviews resulted in a great conversation, fun anecdotes, or insightful revelations.

• Offer Flexibility: If time is a constraint for the guest, offer to conduct a shorter pre-interview or do it via email or text. The goal is to at least get some preparation in.

Remember, podcasts are about engaging conversations and shared experiences. Ensuring both parties are prepared will only enhance the final output.

Want More?

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Topics covered in this episode:​

• Dolly Parton and her Imagination Library program
• "Hate listeners" and spreading a message
• Barbie boycotts and your podcast
• Engaging the listener through vivid descriptions
• Experiencing the Malibu Dreamhouse and encountering a character
• Young girls and the future of society
• Successfully getting a message across during a difficult interview

Episode Timestamps:​

[00:00:29] Barbie, video comments, Dolly Parton

[00:06:05] Message spreading brings satisfaction, regardless of actions.

[00:06:49] "Hate Listeners" bring benefits

[00:12:11] Sneaky messages that change the world.

[00:14:07] Leverage others on social media for attention.

[00:19:03] Barbie (with music).

[00:21:58] Dolly Parton's faces judgment during interview.

[00:24:35] A really hot podcast ...

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 138 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.​

Topics covered in this episode:​

• Oops! A Lawsuit in Federal Court 
• Bad Legal Advice?
• Hollywood Strike: Updates and Predictions for Resolution
• Recording from Home in a Closet
• Analyzing Audio Quality with Podcast Grader
• The Importance of Prioritizing Goals over Engaging in Arguments on Social Media
• Using Postal Mail to Promote Your Podcast

Episode Timestamps:​

[00:06:09] Legal actions may not be worthwhile.

[00:12:52] "Opportunities happen, be ready."

[00:15:57] Promoting your podcast via postal mail 

[00:17:51] Remote work "rules" 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 137 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.​

Topics covered in this episode:​

• The Importance of Involving Listeners in Your Podcast
• Engaging, Promoting, and Growing Your Podcast Community
• Unlocking the Power of User-Generated Content
• How Autonomy Drives Podcast Engagement3
• The Importance of Origin Stories and Detail
• Fresh Episode Ideas: Q&A, Flipped Format, and Bonus Content

Episode Timestamps:​

[00:02:54] Disney's attention to detail 

[00:05:11] Your "Origin Story" crucial to generate viewer interest

[00:08:24] Encourages signing up for your mailing list and review your podcast

[00:12:54] Audacity - Is it a cult?

[00:14:31] User-generated content and what you need to know about it

[00:17:31] Getting listeners involved with your podcast

[00:20:15] Podcast monetization program for successful 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 136 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.​

Topics covered in this episode:​

1. Outgrowing Your Podcast: The importance of constantly evolving your podcast to keep up with your own growth and changing interests. 
2. Newsjacking: Discover a powerful strategy to attract more listeners by leveraging current events and trends. 
3. The Power of Rewards: Engaging your listeners is crucial for the success of your podcast. 
4. Embracing Background Noise: Creating an authentic podcast experience is essential. 
5. Finding "Money in the Middle"

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 135 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.​

Topics covered in this episode:​

• Why it's important for an artist (and you as a podcast) to be known for authentic work rather than being associated with other types of art.
• The importance of informing viewers/listeners about your real work when creating response videos or remixes.
• A discussion on a legendary broadcaster known for "The Strangest Secret" and his achievements in the spoken word album industry.
• Insights into daily routines
• The importance of planning episodes and writing for a great podcast.
• Tips on how to finish a podcast faster.
• Stolen tricks to grow your podcast and a conversation about equipment choices.
• How to enhance the quality of a podcast.- The sponsor for this episode, Riverside.fm, a platform for remote podcast and video recordings.
• Utilizing pinned posts on social media for maximum visibility of promotions.
• Exploring underutilized opportunities to reach new people who will be interested in your podcast
• Speaking at live events
• Advice on preparing a basic talk for unexpected speaking engagements.
• Introduction to the Audio Monetization Program (AMP), which offers one-on-one assistance to help you gain more listeners, engagement, impact, and income for your podcast.

Episode Timestamps:​

[00:04:34] Struggles with self-employment.

[00:08:34] Review and analyze successful content (podcasts and videos) to improve your own.

[00:10:22] A legendary broadcaster who achieved success with his spoken word album. He emphasized the importance of planning and writing. This will also help you with your podcast.

[00:14:32] A timer, a leaderboard, and "distracted" alerts. How this can help you get more done ...

[00:18:48] Underutilizedopportunities to promote your podcast (and how to approach them)

[00:22:52] Building relationships and cross-promoting 

[00:24:30] Creating a podcast without expensive equipment ... or cheap (and free) equipment.

[00:28:24] Get personalized podcast assistance for $50/month through Big Podcast AMP - Audio Monetization Program. Join other dedicated podcasters and boost your listener base, engagement, impact, and income.

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 134 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.​

This is what you'll get from this very short episode of Build a Big Podcast:

Benefits of Podcasting for Communication Skills

• Podcasting can help improve communication skills by enhancing storytelling abilities
• Thinking through and editing thoughts before speaking can lead to clearer and more concise communication
• Effective communication skills learned through podcasting can be applied in various situations, like group calls or webinars

How Podcasting Helps with Personal Introductions

• Podcasting can help you get to the point and quickly exit conversations
• The three-act structure, which is commonly used in podcasting, is essential in introductions, just like in storytelling
• Introduction skills can help with all aspects of your life, including business, career, or even dating purpose

Advantages of Podcasting Beyond Direct Monetary Gains

• Podcasting can help clarify and explore ideas and contribute to the completion of projects, such a books
• Anyone can benefit from podcasting, even if they are unsure what to podcast about or no one listens to their podcast
• Podcasting can help build professional authority in a specific niche

Thanks to Gabriel Suarez from Camp Iron Mountain for the inspiration for this episode.

Like the podcast? 

Subscribe now and never miss an episode of Build a Big Podcast.

Want more? Big Podcast Insider is a weekly newsletter on podcasting. If you like the content of this episode, you can subscribe here to it in a newsletter format – it's free and you can unsubscribe at any time with a single click.​

On this episode of Build a Big Podcast, we explore the topic of when it's time to the name of your podcast. This episode was inspired by a message from York Campbell of Welcome to Earth Stories.

Sometimes changing your podcast name is necessary to attract the right audience. And if what happened to York is happening to you, it's time to make your move.

Topics on this Episode:

• What's the importance of podcast titles?
• Is your podcast relevant to your audience? How to know ...
• Can the name of a podcast be changed after it has already been established?
• What should you do if your podcast title isn't attracting the desired listeners?
• Why change the name of your podcast? (And when to do it ...)

Like the podcast? Subscribe now and never miss an episode.

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.​