Friendly Podcast Guide: Teaching Women How to Grow a Podcast (Without Burning Out)

Ever wonder how people actually find your podcast? In this episode, I’m breaking down the basics of podcast SEO—what it is, why it matters, and how to start using it right now to grow your show. These simple, repeatable strategies will help your podcast get discovered on both podcast apps and Google—without burning you out.

Hi, I’m Andi Smiley, your friendly podcast guide and podcast coach for women who want to grow their shows sustainably. I’ve built my podcast through smart, low-stress marketing strategies like SEO and Pinterest and I’m sharing the exact steps with you.

Topics Discussed in This Episode

• What podcast SEO is and why it matters

• How to brainstorm the right search phrases

• Using Google autocomplete to expand your keyword list

• Where to place keywords in your podcast content

• Why you don’t need to rename your podcast to improve SEO

• How Pinterest supports long-term podcast growth

• Real-life results from my own Pinterest strategy
  

Key Takeaways

Podcast SEO isn’t as hard, or technical, as it sounds. It starts with knowing what your listener is searching for, using those phrases naturally in your titles and descriptions, and repeating the process across all your content. The best part? Once you’ve done it, those strategies keep working in the background while you go live your life.

Timestamps

(00:00) Intro & who this episode is for

(00:37) How Pinterest helped grow my podcast

(01:26) Step 1: Brainstorm podcast seo keywords

(01:56) Step 2: Use Google to expand your podcast seo keywords

(02:41) Step 3: Add podcast seo keywords everywhere

(03:26) Step 4: Repeat across your content

(03:58) One simple step to get started

Links & Resources

• Grab the free checklist: Is Pinterest Right for Me?

• Connect with me on Instagram

• Connect with me on Threads

• Subscribe to the show so you don’t miss next week’s Pinterest episode!

In this episode, I’m sharing powerful, real-life advice from seven inspiring mom podcasters to help you grow your podcast audience without burning out. From mindset shifts to smart marketing strategies and time-saving tools, these nuggets of wisdom (plus my own commentary) are here to encourage and energize your podcasting journey.

I asked seven amazing mom podcasters to share their best sustainable podcasting strategies. You'll hear advice from:

• Candace, The Podcasting Mentor: Better Brave

• Scotti, Unlocking School Success

• Kristen, Amplify Ambition

• Ashley, Taboo Science

• Erin & Heather, Three Kitchens

• Sarah & Kenzie, Cosmic Group Chat

• Rachel, Teenagers Untangled

 ...and of course, I’m adding in my own thoughts and lessons from coaching podcasters just like you.

Topics Discussed in This Episode

• How to grow a podcast audience without social media burnout

• Why Pinterest might be your secret marketing weapon

• Mindset shifts that help you hit publish

• Time-saving podcast systems for moms

• Perfectionism and why “done” is better than perfect

• The power of batching and working ahead

• Smart ways to use AI tools for podcasting

• Guesting tips that actually help your podcast grow

• What sustainable podcasting really looks like

Key Takeaways

• Start before you’re ready—your voice matters now, not “someday”

• Podcasting doesn’t need to be perfect to be powerful

• Protect your energy with intentional breaks and flexibility

• Use Pinterest for long-term podcast growth without social overload

• Systems and tools (including AI) can help you stay consistent

• Letting go of perfection is one of the best podcast tips for moms

Timestamps

(00:00) Welcome and intro

(00:34) Why I switched from Instagram to Pinterest

(01:27) Mindset tips

(03:53) Protect your energy

(06:28) Build systems and use tools

(12:00) Final thoughts & your one next step

Links & Resources

• Join the waitlist for Pinterest Magic for Podcasters (launches Sept 29 – get $10 off!)

• Follow me on Instagram

• Candace’s podcast: The Podcasting Mentor: Better Brave

• Scotti’s podcast: Unlocking School Success

• Kristen’s podcast: Amplify Ambition

• Ashley’s podcast: Taboo Science

• Erin & Heather’s podcast: Three Kitchens

• Sarah & Kenzie’s podcast: Cosmic Group Chat

• Rachel’s podcast: Teenagers Unta

Ready to grow your podcast in 2026 without burning out? In this episode, I'm sharing four sustainable, impactful strategies to help you stand out and stay energized as a mom who podcasts. Plus, I reveal how Pinterest quietly revolutionized my own podcast growth—and how it can do the same for you.

Hi, I’m Andi Smiley—your podcast guide and coach for moms who want to grow their shows in a way that fits their real life. I bring practical podcast tips, honest stories from my own journey, and wisdom from brilliant podcasters and experts (like the Pinterest pro I’ll be featuring soon!).

Topics Discussed in this Episode

• Four podcast growth strategies for 2026

• How podcast SEO helps more listeners find your show

• Using Pinterest instead of Instagram for podcast marketing

• Why average consumption rate matters more than downloads

• Where to find your podcast analytics beyond downloads

• How Pinterest helped my podcast reach new listeners

• Tips for taking intentional podcast breaks (without ghosting)

• Podcast SEO isn’t scary—just use real words your listeners search for.

• Pinterest is the podcast marketing platform no one’s talking about (yet!).

• Pay attention to how long people actually listen to your episodes.

• Breaks are powerful—but tell your listeners what to expect!

(00:00) Welcome

(00:32) My big podcast marketing aha moment

(01:24) Podcast growth tip #1: Make Podcast SEO your friend

(02:35) Tip #2: Pinterest over Instagram

(04:21) Tip #3: Look at your average consumption rate

(05:33) Tip #4: Take intentional podcast breaks

(06:32) Your one next step: Try Pinterest

• Get on the waitlist for Pinterest Magic for Podcasters

• Episode with Brittany Herzberg on SEO

• Apple Podcast Connect

• Create Pins with Canva

• Follow me on Pinterest

In this episode, I'm breaking down my Top 5 Takeaways from Podcast Movement, the biggest podcasting conference in the U.S. Whether you're brand new or a few seasons in, these tips will help you grow your podcast audience, feel less pressure around social media, and explore fresh, sustainable strategies for podcast marketing and monetization.

I'm Andi Smiley—podcast coach for moms and host of this show! I help mom podcasters grow without burnout by sharing practical podcasting tips and lessons from my own journey. I just got back from Podcast Movement, and I’m spilling the top insights that can make a big difference for your show.

Topics Discussed in This Episode

• How podcast SEO can help your audience find you

• Why Instagram doesn’t need to be your main marketing channel

• My podcast strategies: podcast swaps, podcast SEO and Pinterest

• Seeing other podcasters as collaborators, not competition

• Multiple ways to make money podcasting beyond ads

• The surprising ROI of Pinterest for podcast marketing

• What to focus on if you're overwhelmed with podcast growth

Key Takeaways

• Focus on podcast SEO—it’s the gift that keeps on giving.

• Social media is great for connection, but not ideal for growth.

• Podcast swaps are a powerful way to grow your listener base.

• Collaborate with podcasters in your niche—you’re stronger together.

• Monetization isn’t just ads! Paid subscriptions are a great option for smaller shows.

One action step: optimize your podcast with SEO-friendly keywords.

Timestamps

(00:00) Welcome

(00:33) My Pinterest “aha” moment

(01:40) Takeaway 1: Podcast SEO

(03:00) Takeaway 2: Social media ≠ podcast marketing

(03:38) Takeaway 3: Podcast swaps

(04:28) Takeaway 4: Collaborating with similar shows

(06:06) Takeaway 5: Different ways to monetize your podcast

(07:34) One action step

Links & Resources

• Join the Pinterest Magic for Podcasters waitlist (and get $10 off when it launches)

• Brittany Herzberg SEO Interview

• Follow me on Instagram

• Learn more on the Friendly Podcast Guide website

Season 4 is here! I’m sharing a peek into what’s coming up—including podcast marketing strategies I learned at Podcast Movement in Dallas, sustainable podcasting strategies that work for real life, and the heart behind why I coach moms in podcasting. If you’re wondering how to grow a podcast audience or start a successful podcast as a mom, you’re in the right place.
I’m Andi Smiley, podcast coach for moms who want to start and grow a podcast without burning out. With six years of podcasting experience and a heart for helping moms succeed, I bring practical tools, real-life advice, and a whole lot of encouragement to your earbuds.

Topics Discussed in This Episode

• Season 4 sneak peek

• What I learned at Podcast Movement Dallas

• Podcast marketing strategies that actually work

• Sustainable podcasting strategies for moms

• Why burnout doesn’t belong in your podcast plan

• How to grow a podcast audience without hustling 24/7

• Balancing podcasting with motherhood and caregiving

• A few surprises coming this season (hint: guest appearances!)

Key Takeaways
This season is all about marketing your podcast in a way that’s quick, effective, and totally mom-life-friendly. You’ll get expert advice, encouraging stories, and doable podcast tips for moms—so you can grow your audience without sacrificing your sanity.

Links & Resources

• Learn more on my website

• Follow me on Instagram

Ever wondered how a high schooler could take a passion for Greek mythology and turn it into a hit podcast? In this episode, I chat with Cole, the teen creator behind Lasting Legends: Greek Myths Surround Us, a kid-friendly podcast that connects ancient myths to the modern world. If your kids are into Percy Jackson or love learning through stories, this one's for you.

Cole isn’t just any guest—he’s a young podcaster who’s turning heads (and sparking conversations) with his thoughtful storytelling and creative sound design. His podcast has become a favorite in my house, and in this conversation, we dig into how he crafts his episodes, why he started his show, and what it’s been like seeing it reach listeners all around the world.

Topics discussed in this episode:

• Why he chose Greek mythology as his podcast focus

• Creative ways he ties myths to modern life

• The sound effects and production techniques that make his show engaging

• How his episodes spark family conversations (including at my house!)

• His advice for kids (and adults) who want to start a podcast

• What he's learned since launching Lasting Legends

• The episode he's most proud of—and why
  

Takeaways from this episode:Cole reminds us that podcasting can be a fun, creative outlet at any age—and that sound design can make a huge difference in how your audience connects with your content. If you're feeling stuck, try adding just one sound effect to your next episode. It could be the spark that reignites your love for podcasting.

Timestamps

(00:00) Intro

(02:09) Meet Cole and how he started podcasting

(07:18) The sound effects that bring his show to life

(10:20) What surprised him most about podcasting

(12:52) Cole’s top advice for new podcasters

(13:57) Where to listen to Lasting Legends

(14:36) Final thoughts and your one next step

Links:

• Listen to Lasting Legends on Pocket Casts

• Listen to Lasting Legends on Apple

• Listen to Lasting Legends on Spotify

• Try Show Notes Sidekick to name your episodes, write your show notes, and more
  

kid podcaster, Greek mythology podcast, podcasting for kids, creative podcast ideas, podcast sound effects, Lasting Legends

If you've ever wondered what a podcast network really is, how they work, or if your show is ready for one, this episode is for you. I sat down with Jeff Umbro, founder of The Podglomerate and host of Podcast Perspectives, to get all your podcast network questions answered in one friendly, info-packed conversation.

Meet the Expert

Jeff Umbro is the founder and CEO of The Podglomerate, a podcast network and production company, and host of the show Podcast Perspectives. With years of experience in both the creative and business sides of podcasting, Jeff offers a rare, insider look into what podcast networks are, what they offer, and how indie podcasters can know if joining one is the right move.

Topics Discussed in This Episode

• What a podcast network actually is today (it might surprise you!)

• The different types of networks: sales agencies, IP companies, service providers

• What to ask before signing with a podcast network

• How to evaluate if your show is ready to join a network

• Realistic download numbers networks are looking for

• What makes a show appealing to a network

• How to research and pitch a network effectively

• Why values and relationship fit matter more than you think

Key Takeaways

• Podcast networks come in many forms, and not all do the same things

• Before approaching a network, ask yourself what you want out of the relationship

• A great network fit is about values, goals, and shared expectations—not just numbers

• You can monetize your podcast at any size, but scale often matters to networks

• When reaching out, show you've done your homework—it's appreciated and remembered

Timestamps

(00:00) Intro and why this episode matters

(01:10) Show Notes Sidekick

(02:14) What is a podcast network?

(04:20) How to choose a podcast network

(06:00) Are you ready for a podcast network?

(07:29) First step to find a podcast network for your show

(10:14) Questions to ask podcast networks

(11:49) Jeff’s biggest advice to podcasters

(14:49) Final thoughts and next steps

Links:

• Show Notes Sidekick — My tool to help you name episodes, write show notes, blog posts, and get promo ideas in minutes!

• Friendly Podcast Guide on Instagram

• The Podglomerate — Jeff’s podcast network

• Podcast Perspectives — Jeff's podcast

• Podchaser — A helpful tool for researching podcasts and networks

Keywords

podcast network, podcast networks for small podcasts, should I join a podcast network, how to pitch a podcast network, podcast network benefits, podcast network requirements

In this season finale of The Friendly Podcast Guide, I’m reflecting on five big lessons I learned in season three. From embracing AI tools to discovering the magic of Pinterest for podcasters, this episode is packed with insights that made my podcasting journey more fun and fulfilling. Plus, if you’re feeling overwhelmed, I’ll tell you the one thing you should focus on first.

Hi, I'm Andi Smiley, your friendly podcast guide! I help podcasters create shows that are fun and fulfilling without burning out. I share practical tips, lessons from my own journey, and advice from podcasters I admire.

Topics discussed in this episode:

• Why ChatGPT is a game changer for podcasters

• How to use AI to streamline show notes, emails, and episode ideas

• My favorite marketing strategy: Pinterest for podcasters

• How narrative formats can rescue tricky interviews

• The surprising benefits of sending weekly emails

• Tips for talking about your podcast in real life

Takeaways from this episode:

• ChatGPT saves time and boosts creativity but always tweak its output.

• Pinterest is a powerful long-term marketing tool, even for beginners.

• Narrative formats can turn a so-so interview into a standout episode.

• Weekly emails aren’t as scary or overwhelming as they seem.

• Practicing “curiosity statements” makes it easier to talk about your podcast offline.

Timestamps: 

(00:00) Introduction

(01:00) How ChatGPT became my podcasting secret weapon

(04:19) Why Pinterest is my favorite podcast marketing strategy

(07:55) The magic of narrative format episodes

(09:33) Weekly emails: not as overwhelming as I thought

(10:18) How I got more comfortable talking about my podcast IRL

(12:01) One simple thing to try if you’re feeling overwhelmed

Links Mentioned:

• Grab the free Pinterest Magic for Podcasters Guide

• Brittany Herzberg (aka the Queen of SEO)

• Follow me on Instagram

Keywords: chat gpt for podcasters, pinterest for podcasters, podcasting for beginners, marketing your podcast

Is social media marketing getting you down? This episode is for you. Andi shares two simple, powerful ways to market your podcast that have nothing to do with Instagram or TikTok—but everything to do with real connection. These strategies are easy to start, but might just push you a little outside your comfort zone in the best way.

Andi Smiley is a podcast coach for moms who want to create a fun and fulfilling podcast without burning out. As someone who’s grown her podcast through meaningful, low-pressure marketing strategies, she’s here to share what’s worked for her and her clients.

Topics discussed in this episode:

• Why social media isn’t the only way to market your podcast

• How networking events (yes, really!) can help you grow your audience

• What to look for in a networking event that fits your vibe

• How to turn everyday conversations into podcast marketing moments

• Using “curiosity statements” to naturally talk about your show

• The power of in-person and face-to-face virtual connections

• A story about making a genuine connection that turned into a client

Takeaway from this episode:

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, start by writing down one sentence you can use the next time someone asks how you’re doing—something that naturally brings up your podcast. Practice saying it out loud. It doesn’t have to be perfect, it just has to be true. Marketing your podcast doesn’t have to feel like a sales pitch. It can just be you, sharing something you love.

Links:

- Book your 30-minute Podcast Jumpstart Session

- Buy my podcast planner (use FPG10 for 10% off!)

SEO Keywords:

How to promote your podcast offline, marketing your podcast without social media, networking for podcasters, non-traditional podcast marketing, creative podcast promotion ideas, ways to market your podcast without social media, how to promote your podcast in everyday life, how to confidently talk about your podcast, what to say when someone asks about your podcast, podcast elevator pitch, offline marketing tips for podcasters, introvert-friendly podcast promotion, how to market your podcast naturally

What is podcast SEO? In this episode Andi chats with Brittany Herzberg (the queen of SEO) and breaks down how we can use SEO for our podcasts in a way that doesn’t make me want to run away screaming. 

Brittany Herzberg is an SEO strategist and copywriter who has been using SEO to increase podcast discoverability for her own podcast and her clients’ podcasts for several years. She is good at explaining concepts like SEO keywords and visibility in a way that is simple, but very affective.

Topics discussed in this episode:

• Podcast SEO basics

• Podcast SEO examples

• Podcast discoverability

• Podcast SEO keywords

• Podcast SEO best practices

• How to get your podcast SEO right

Here's the one thing you should implement in your podcast if you’re feeling overwhelmed and not sure where to start and that is…making sure that your episode titles are 60 characters or less. Getting into this habit will be super helpful for you as you are starting your podcast. Like Brittany said during our conversation, it helps your ideal listener know what the episode is going to be about (because the title doesn’t get cut off with an ellipsis). And whenever you interview someone make sure to use their name in the title as well, so that when people are searching for that person, your episode comes up! (Okay, I know that was two things, but they were two small things, so hopefully that’s okay.)

Timestamps

(00:00) Introduction

(02:15) Getting to know Brittany

(03:52) Brittany’s SEO origin story

(05:19) SEO for new podcasters

(07:38) Podcast SEO keywords

(18:09) Podcast SEO in action

(21:56) Unique SEO strategy

(25:53) Podcast SEO resource

(28:03) The Basic B Podcast

(30:52) Summary

Links:

• It’s Karmic by Vika Bradford: https://play.pocketcasts.com/podcasts/ba409050-ec9c-0139-d4c2-0acc26574db2

• Uber suggest: https://chromewebstore.google.com/detail/ubersuggest-seo-and-keywo/nmpgaoofmjlimabncmnmnopjabbflegf?hl=en

• SEO for Podcasters guide: https://brittanyherzberg.com/digital-shop/p/seo-podcast-show-notes-template

• The Basic B Podcast: https://brittanyherzberg.com/the-basic-b-podcast

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