Most podcasters treat their show notes like an afterthought—and it’s costing them downloads. In this Espresso Shot episode, I’m breaking down the biggest mistake I see podcasters make with their notes (and no, it’s not what you think).

If your show notes are vague, keyword-free, or written only for current listeners, you’re missing out on one of the most powerful discoverability tools you have. Unlike big shows that can rely on name recognition, most of us need to use our notes strategically to get found in podcast searches and convert curious browsers into actual listeners.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why short or generic show notes hurt your growth

• How to write notes for future listeners, not just current ones

• The four steps to instantly improve your show notes: lead with a hook, use keywords naturally, make them scannable, and add a call to action

• A simple way to update your old notes to boost downloads

Your show notes are more than a recap—they’re a marketing tool. When you start treating them that way, you’ll get found more often and attract the right audience to your podcast.

Pro tip: Go back and update a few of your old episodes with stronger notes and watch what happens to your download numbers.

Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:

Apply to work with us: https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/6521a4cc8fdeed003a859a44

Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklist⁠

Website: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠

Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/⁠

YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction⁠

My favorite podcast tool, Descript: https://www.descript.com/?lmref=KkInCQ 

Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com

If you’ve ever been fascinated by manifestation, personal development, or even the art of confident speaking, this episode is for you. I’m joined by my client, Jen Coffey, former QVC television host and now the voice behind The Phoenix Podcast.

After more than a decade on live TV, Jen decided to create a new platform where she could share her true passions—helping people manifest their dreams and live with intention. Her podcast quickly grew into not only an inspiring show but also a coaching practice where she works directly with people ready to transform their lives.

In this conversation, Jen and I dig into:

• How she went from selling on QVC to launching a podcast all about manifestation

• Why Threads (yes, Threads!) played a key role in how we connected and started working together

• The behind-the-scenes lessons from years of live TV that podcasters can use to present themselves with confidence

• Why solo episodes can be just as powerful—if not more—than guest interviews

• How vulnerability and storytelling build deeper connections with listeners

• Jen’s best tips for showing up on camera and speaking with confidence

• The surprising ways podcasting has made her a better student of manifestation

Connect with Jen:

Podcast: https://www.jennifercoffey.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennifercoffey

Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:

Apply to work with us: https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/6521a4cc8fdeed003a859a44

Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklist⁠

Website: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠

Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/⁠

YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction⁠

My favorite podcast tool, Descript: https://www.descript.com/?lmref=KkInCQ 

Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com

When it comes to podcasting, facts and strategies are great... but what really keeps listeners coming back is YOU. In this Espresso Shot episode of Podcast Café, I’m diving into why getting personal with your audience is the fastest way to build trust and loyalty, plus exactly how you can do it without oversharing.

Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:

Apply to work with us: https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/6521a4cc8fdeed003a859a44

Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklist⁠

Website: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠

Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/⁠

YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction⁠

My favorite podcast tool, Descript: https://www.descript.com/?lmref=KkInCQ 

Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com

If you love travel and you love wine, this episode is for you. I’m joined by my client Nick Elliott, host of Pour & Explore, a podcast all about wine, food, and travel. Nick is a certified sommelier, classically trained chef, and world traveler who believes wine should be fun and approachable—not intimidating or snobby.

In this conversation, Nick shares how he blends his passions into a podcast that’s both educational and entertaining. We talk about his journey from hosting live webinars to podcasting, the creative ways he engages his listeners with guides and resources, and how he uses his podcast to grow The Wine Guy brand.

You’ll hear:

• Why Nick created Pour & Explore and how he keeps the content fresh

• How he chooses guests and balances solo vs. interview episodes

• Creative ways to repurpose podcast content into lead magnets

• Why making wine and food approachable matters more than rules

• Fun behind-the-scenes stories from Nick’s travels and meals around the world

Listen to Pour & Explore: https://www.thewineguy.vin/portfolio

Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:

Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklist⁠

Website: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/

⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/

⁠YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction⁠

My favorite podcast tool, Descript: https://www.descript.com/?lmref=KkInCQ

Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/

If your podcast doesn’t have a lead magnet, you’re missing out on one of the most powerful ways to grow not just your show, but your email list and business, too.

In this Espresso Shot episode, I’m breaking down exactly what a lead magnet is, why it matters for podcasters, and how to create one your listeners can’t resist. Lead magnets turn casual listeners into loyal subscribers who are ready to buy, so this is a must-listen if you want your podcast to fuel your business growth.

You’ll learn:

• What a lead magnet really is (and how it works for podcasters)

• Real examples of high-converting freebies you can create

• The 4 simple steps to move listeners from your podcast to your email list

• How to naturally promote your lead magnet in episodes and show notes

After 24+ years in executive search and recruiting, Kim Frost decided to add something new to her business strategy—a podcast. In this episode I sit down with my client, Kim, founder of Frost Connections and host of Hire Power, to talk about why she launched a show after decades in business, what it’s doing for her brand, and the unique structure she follows to deliver value-packed, 10-minute episodes to busy leaders.

Kim shares why she’s never been a podcast listener (until now!), how she uses her show to expand her reach beyond traditional networking, and the no-BS approach she brings to hiring, leadership, and client relationships. We also dig into her philosophy on bold outreach, building genuine connections, and why leaders need more than just “managers” on their teams.

If you’ve ever wondered how podcasting can fit into a well-established business—or how to stand out in a competitive industry—Kim’s story will inspire you to think bigger, start sooner, and lead with authenticity.

What you’ll hear in this episode:

• Why Kim started a podcast after 20+ years in business

• How Hire Power helps leaders improve their hiring and leadership skills

• The real difference between a manager and a leader

• Tips for building genuine business relationships (without hiding behind email and text)

• How nano-learning episodes create impact in under 10 minutes

• Why authenticity matters more than ulterior motives in podcasting

Connect with Kim:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/frostkim/

Podcast: https://www.frostconnections.com/hire-power-kim-frost

Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:

Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklist⁠

Website: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/

⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/

⁠YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction⁠

My favorite podcast tool, Descript: https://www.descript.com/?lmref=KkInCQ

Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/

Think your podcast episodes have to be long to be valuable? Think again.

I’m breaking down nano learning—short, hyper-focused podcast episodes designed to give your audience one actionable takeaway in 10 minutes or less.

You’ll learn:

• What nano learning is and why it works so well in today’s busy world

• How short episodes can help you stay consistent without burning out

• A 4-step framework for creating quick, high-value content your audience will love

• Ways to use nano learning to answer questions, share news, and give rapid-fire tips

If you’ve ever felt like you don’t have time to create a full-length podcast episode—or worried your audience is too busy to listen—this episode will show you how to make a big impact in a small amount of time.

Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:

Apply to work with us: ⁠https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/6521a4cc8fdeed003a859a44⁠

Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklist⁠⁠

Website: ⁠⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠⁠

Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/⁠⁠

YouTube: ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction⁠⁠

My favorite podcast tool, Descript: ⁠https://www.descript.com/?lmref=KkInCQ⁠

Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: ⁠⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/

Your podcast doesn’t have to stay the same forever—and neither do you.

In this episode of Podcast Café, Hayleigh sits down with Crystal Edwards, host of Gritty is the New Pretty, to talk about how your podcast can evolve alongside your life, your business, and your identity. From launching a podcast in the middle of a pandemic to hitting pause during major life transitions, Crystal shares what it means to lead with authenticity, pivot with purpose, and stay rooted in your mission—even when the strategy shifts.

They dive into:

• How Krystle's podcast was born from a community project and a personal loss

• The realities of podcasting while parenting, healing, and growing

• What happens when you stop editing out every “um” and embrace real conversation

• Why podcasting is a long game, and how it becomes a vehicle for connection, not perfection

• The power of using your voice, even when it feels vulnerable

Whether you’re just getting started or your podcast has been with you for years, this conversation is your reminder that it’s your show, so let it grow with you.

Connect with Krystle:

Website: www.gritcitywomen.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gritcitywomen

Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:

Apply to work with us:  ⁠https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/6521a4cc8fdeed003a859a44⁠

Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklist⁠⁠

Website: ⁠⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠⁠

Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/⁠⁠

YouTube: ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction⁠⁠

My favorite podcast tool, Descript: ⁠https://www.descript.com/?lmref=KkInCQ⁠

Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: ⁠⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/

Your podcast isn’t a contract you signed in blood, it’s a creative tool that’s meant to grow with you.

In this short + punchy Espresso Shot episode, I’m diving into what it really means to let your podcast evolve alongside your business. Whether your offers shift, your audience changes, or your voice becomes stronger, your podcast can (and should) move with you, not against you.

I’m breaking down:

• Why you don’t need to start over every time your business pivots

• How I’ve shifted my podcast Employee to Boss over the year

• What it looked like when a client transitioned her show from general mindset to business-specific content

• How to bring your audience along for the ride, so they feel invited, not confused

Your podcast should reflect who you are now, not who you were three years ago. Ready for a refresh? I’m always here to help you realign your show with your business goals. Reach out!

Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:

Apply to work with us:  https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/6521a4cc8fdeed003a859a44

Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklist⁠

Website: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠

Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/⁠

YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction⁠

My favorite podcast tool, Descript: https://www.descript.com/?lmref=KkInCQ

Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/

This episode is a little different... in the best way. A few weeks ago I threw a party to celebrate 5 years of my business (!!) and set up a mic for my friends, clients, and people I adore to leave me voice messages. What they shared? So sweet, so thoughtful, and honestly, exactly what I needed to hear. You’ll hear their messages, some of my own stories, and a whole lot of love. 💛

Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:

Apply to work with us: https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/6521a4cc8fdeed003a859a44

Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklist⁠

Website: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠

Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/⁠

YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction⁠

My favorite podcast tool, Descript: https://www.descript.com/?lmref=KkInCQ 

Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/