You're not creating content for content sake. You're building a platform that will command attention. To succeed, you need to become someone worth listening to.

COMMAND ATTENTION BY BECOMING SOMEONE WORTH LISTENING TO

In today's episode, we dive into the importance of becoming someone worth listening to. It's the only way to command attention.

It's not about having the perfect microphone or even launching the slickest podcast. It's about who you are and how you connect with your audience.

Your success requires stepping into the spotlight authentically and creating a platform that will command attention. Let's explore how you can attract listeners and build impactful relationships by truly being yourself.

COMMAND ATTENTION WITH THE POWER OF PRESENCE

It's all about presence, not just the platform. We often get caught up in the technicalities of podcasting, from RSS feeds to sound quality, but those aren't the cornerstones of success.

The true power lies in who you are when you're on the mic. I shared my journey in radio, learning the importance of presence from legendary hosts who commanded rooms.

Your voice and personality are what make your podcast resonate. By leaning into your unique identity, you can become someone people not only enjoy but remember. This is how you command attention.

UNIQUE VOICE, UNIQUE SUCCESS

Finding your unique voice is key to distinguishing yourself from the sea of sameness. I spoke about how I transitioned from imitating others to discovering my own identity in radio. This critical shift allowed me to build a connection with my audience.

When I made my shift, people began recognizing me on the street. This was not because I was famous, but because they felt they knew me through my stories and genuine engagement.

The same principle applies to your content. To command attention, embrace your uniqueness and share your journey. This will grow your influence.

DON’T SETTLE FOR JUST AN AUDIENCE

Growing your audience isn’t just about numbers; it’s about creating raving fans who would follow you anywhere. Many content creators struggle because they aim for listeners rather than influence.

When I worked with hosts like Oscar Trimboli, a listening expert, we transformed his show to highlight his expertise and personality. This in turn, drew in an audience keen on his insights. It’s about moving beyond mere content to establish trust and authority with your listeners.

LET ME HELP YOU ACHIEVE YOUR GOALS

Being worth listening to in order to command attention isn't something that happens overnight. It requires strategy and commitment to share who you authentically are.

That's why I'm here as your coach. Whether you're just starting or looking to level up, let me guide you. Together, we can refine your approach and uncover the aspects of your personality that captivate your audience.

Visit podcasttalentcoach.com/apply for a personalized coaching session. Let's turn your podcast into a platform that leaves a lasting impact so you can command attention.

Sharing yourself on your podcast is the way to build relationships with your audience. However, you need to be careful what you share.

SHARE YOURSELF AUTHENTICALLY

We have group calls twice a month inside the Podcast Profits Accelerator. This is where a group of podcasters are growing the audience and business. You can see details at www.PodcastTalentCoach.com/accelerator.

On a call the other night, one of the members asked what they should share and how much.

What you share on your podcast needs to be strategic. It should reinforce your brand. What you share should build relationships.

DESI SAW US AS FRIENDS

When I was on the radio, it was my goal to get my listeners to see me as their friend. They would take me with them everywhere they went by listening to me on the radio.

I was on the local Top 40 radio station and had a girl who would call me often.

She had a severe developmental disability. It affected her speech which made her difficult to understand.

When I couldn't understand what she was saying, it would make it ridiculous to make her laugh. She may be asking it I could play 'Nsync. I would say, "Did I lick the kitchen sink?"

Desi would laugh and laugh that I couldn't get it right. We would break it down by word until I finally got it. Some days were better than others.

She was in a wheelchair. Her assistant at the home where she lived would sometimes bring Desi to see me at remote broadcasts when she was up to it. I would give Desi some of the t-shirts and prizes we were giving away and have a little fun.

SHE FOLLOWED ME

I then moved to the country station in town. Desi moved with me and would continue to call. However, her call were becoming less frequent. Her health was starting to decline.

We still talked and laughed. She had new songs to request, and I still got it wrong.

Then one day Desi's assistant called to tell me Desi was moving to a new facility and wanted me to know. She gave me Desi's new address so I could write her which I did. Just a quick note to tell her I hoped she was doing well.

That was the last time I heard from Desi. Her calls stopped after that. I just hope I added a little smile to her day every once in awhile.

That's what can happen when you share yourself with your listener.

DON'T SHARE TOO MUCH

On the other hand, it can be dangerous when you share too much.

Don't share you address or the school of your small children.

You don't want to share when you are going on vacation and won't be home.

Avoid sharing anything that could make you vulnerable.

Most people in the world are nice. They have no ill will against you.

However, some are crazy and evil. There are people who may not like what you say or think you are better friends than you really are.

You don't want to live in fear. But you also don't want to leave yourself exposed.

I DIDN'T MEAN TO SHARE MY BABY

It happened to me when we were having our first child.

I was working at the Top 40 station at the time. My wife and I were expecting our first baby.

She went into the hospital on a Friday morning to deliver our little girl. This wasn't something I share much about on the radio. I did mention a few times we were expecting.

That Friday I wasn't on the air. Our little girl came into the world with little complication. She was beautiful.

Saturday morning we woke up and were discussion our departure from the hospital. My wife was still in bed with our daughter. We were waiting for the doctor to come by the room.

Around lunch, a visitor appeared at the door. It was a high school girl who listened to the station and called often. She had brought a gift for the baby.

It was quite awkward. We chatted politely for a few minutes. Then I stood up to thank her for coming and politely escorted her back to the elevator.

Trouble was averted. But it was a little crazy that she even knew where we were.

2 LADIES TALKING SEX

It can happen to you if you are diligent about what you share. Sometimes that includes protecting your identity depending on your content.

One year a Podcast Movement, Dave Jackson from the School of Podcasting and I were standing in the lobby of the hotel deciding which panel to attend next. That's when two twenty-something ladies approached us.

They had recognized us and had questions about their podcast.

The two proceeded to tell us they hosted a very popular podcast about sex. They both used different names on the podcast. Aliases.

The podcast was becoming very popular. Their brand was growing. Now these young ladies wanted to know if they should start using their real names to build their personal brands or continue using the aliases.

Dave and I both suggested they continue to use the aliases. The content of their show could potentially attract the wrong people to be superfans. They surely didn't want a dangerous individual showing up unexpectedly that could do them harm.

Use good judgement.

SHARE YOUR BRAND

So, what do you share and how much?

Begin by writing your origin story. How did you develop your superpower? When did you discover you have the ability to do what you do?

Write all of it.

Then, find the pieces of that origin story that support your brand and your foundational principles.

Demonstrate what you stand for and what you stand against.

Drip pieces of your origin story into your content episode after episode. People will get to know you over time. And more importantly, get to know your brand.

I share many of things I've encountered over my 35 years in radio and dozen years in podcasting. We talk about the people I've met and the challenges I've encountered.

You know I love hockey and live in the Midwest. We talk about my passion about adding more relationships to the world, because I see my kids lacking powerful relationships due to technology.

On the other hand, I'm not telling you my address or where my wife works. I didn't tell you I was spending a week in Colorado skiing in January before I went there.

It's not that I don't trust you. I just don't need someone showing up at my hotel room or worse yet, showing up at my house while I'm not home. 

Use common sense about what you share.

Share your beliefs and values. Share stories that support those beliefs. Don't share personal information that could put you in danger.

Share to build the brand and attract your ideal clients.

If you don't have a mentor who can take your hand and walk you every step of the way, go to www.PodcastTalentCoach.com/apply, click the button and apply to have a chat with me. We will develop your plan and see how I can help and support you to achieve your podcast goals.

Storytelling is a powerful way to create relationships with your audience. Your stories allow you audience to get to know you.

STORYTELLING BY THE BEST

The best speakers in the world use powerful storytelling.

Zig Ziglar always used great stories in every point he made. He was a master at storytelling.

If you've listened to Zig, you've heard the story of the old water pump or the selling pans door to door. He made his stories come to life.

When Simon Sinek speaks, he is always telling stories. Watch his TedTalk on starting with why and you will see a talk filled with stories.

Brene' Brown is one of my favorites. Her stories of struggle and success make you fall in love with everything she does.

Storytelling allows your audience to get to know you. By the stories you tell, your listeners know what you value, what you believe and how you operate.

Friendships are formed through storytelling. Watch these three and others to learn from the best.

TRANSPORT YOUR LISTENER

One reason storytelling is so powerful is that stories transport your listener to other places. They forget about their problems and struggles for a bit.

To take your listeners somewhere else, use visual words. Bring your story to life in the theater of the mind. Use words they can see.

Active language helps your story come to life. It is easier to see walking than walked. "He walked into the diner" is harder to envision than "He came walking into the diner."

Use all five senses. What did it look like? Describe the smells. What were the sounds? How did you feel?

The more descriptive your story, the more it will come to life in your listener's mind.

DO I LIKE YOU?

Stories will help people decide if they like you.

Your listeners need to like you in order to listen to you. They are going to spend 30 minutes or an hour with you in their earbuds. It better be more than info.

Pretend they are asking, "Would I enjoy taking a one-hour car ride with this person every week?" That is really the essence of your show.

Develop friendships by telling a story to your best friend. Let your listener learn something about you.

REVEAL THINGS THROUGH STORYTELLING

When I review shows for my clients, I always ask myself, "What do I know about the host that I didn't know before the show started?"

Reveal things about yourself to let your listeners get closer to you.

During a show review for a client recently, he referenced his Italian in-laws, mentioned the movie Talladega Nights and talked about the R&B group Boyz II Men. Little things like that let us get to know him.

When are building your influence and authority, you need to become a powerful personality that attracts people. Storytelling defines your character. This is how people get to know, like and trust you.

The Bible has lasted for thousands of years because of the stories around a powerful character.

Comic book heroes have been around for decades due to the stories and characters.

Zig Ziglar was influential because of his storytelling and powerful personality.

To increase your influence and significance, leverage storytelling.

STORYTELLING WITH DR. MICHELE GUNDERSON

In this episode, we have a fantastic interview with Dr. Michele Gunderson. She is a former university instructor and Iyengar yoga teacher who has transformed into a successful entrepreneur.

Dr. Michele possesses a unique talent for helping business owners align their inner and outer worlds through storytelling, which can catapult their businesses to new heights.

During my conversation with Dr. Michele, you'll learn how understanding and harnessing the power of story can lead to incredible opportunities, whether you're working to grow your podcast, inspire an audience, or achieve five- or six-figure months in your business.

We'll dive into key elements that make stories memorable and compelling, and how they can transform not just your messaging but your entire business strategy.

Dr. Michele also provides practical insights into recognizing empowering and disempowering narratives within ourselves and their impact on our business results.

Get ready to be inspired as Dr. Michele Gunderson guides us through the art of storytelling and how it connects us deeply with the world around us. It's a conversation filled with fascinating insights and actionable tips on harnessing the undeniable power of story to drive your success.

Dr. Michele's free gift is called "7 Quick Tips for Crafting an Inspiring Story That Sells". You can download it at QuickStoryTips.com.

HELP WITH YOUR STORYTELLING

Let me help you with your storytelling.

If you don't have a mentor who can take your hand and walk you every step of the way, go to www.PodcastTalentCoach.com/apply.

You can click the button and apply to have a chat with me. We will develop your plan and see how I can help and support you to achieve your podcast goals.

Let's get started today.

Why do you want a podcast? I'm pretty sure you don't want a podcast just to have a podcast. You want influence and authority. You want significance.

SIGNIFICANCE AND COMPANIONSHIP

It's not about what you're saying. It is about who you're being when you're saying it. Your significance comes from who you are, not what you say.

Your listeners come for your content, but stay for you.

When I coach clients, they often find it difficult to step into who they really are. They don't think people want to hear about their life or story.

But, that's the furthest from the truth. People listen to you for companionship.

Companionship is the primary reason people listen to audio. They don't want to be alone.

People don't want to exercise alone, so they have their earbuds in. They don't want to drive alone, so they have audio on. Your fans don't want to be alone on a run, so they are listening to your podcast. You're keeping them company.

MORE OF YOU

On a coaching call the other day, my client said his former coach told him to cut out all of the personal stuff. Nobody wants to hear it.

That advice couldn't be further from the truth. And it's detrimental to your podcast.

Are your downloads struggling? There isn't enough of you. Your podcast cannot survive on content alone.

Artificial intelligence can copy your information. It can probably generate your six steps to success faster than you can. I don't need to sit through 30 minute of your podcast.

AI can't copy you and your story. Share yourself with your fans and stand out.

Your fans want more of you.

That little voice in your head is telling you that people may not like what you share. They may not like the real you.

And that's ok.

NOT FOR EVERYONE

The biggest personalities are polarizing. But they didn't start that way.

Oprah started as a typical news anchor. She went on to host a daytime television show that was just like her competitors Phil Donahue, Sally Jessy Raphael and the others.

When Oprah finally decided to be herself, share her struggles and do it her way, her star shot to the top. However, she wasn't for everyone. But her superfans loved her. She had incredible significance that lives on today.

Howard Stern started in radio doing the same schtick every other DJ was doing. He struggled to find success.

One day Stern decided to do it his way and be himself. He rubbed a lot of people the wrong way. Even his program director was trying to hold him back.

But, his fan base started to grow quickly. People loved him. And people hated him. He surely isn't for everyone.

But the people who love him really love him. He became the biggest star on the radio, because he shared himself. His became of person of significance.

SIGNIFICANCE BY SELECTION

You don't need to share everything about yourself to grow your significance. It requires sharing the right things.

The fans get to know you by the stories you share with them. Share the stories that build your brand.

Once you've determined your ideal target listener, you know exactly what means the most to them. This is where your significance originates. Speak into their lives by sharing parts of your life with them.

There are seven elements of powerful, magnetic personalities. This is how to start your journey to significance.

I teach you how to elevate your significance and become a magnetic personality who attracts clients to you rather than chasing them inside of the Podcast Profits Accelerator community.

This is powerful group that will help you build and implement your podcast monetization strategy. It all begins by becoming a magnetic personality. You can get full details at www.PodcastTalentCoach.com/accelerator.

A CHARACTER

First, you need a character. That is you. Have the courage to step into who you are.

You are the leader of your tribe. People want what you have. Believe in yourself.

Ignore the people who aren't following you. They won't become your fans anyway. People who don't love you won't buy your products, consume your content.

On the other hand, your fans will love you when you lead.

ORIGIN STORY

Next, you need an origin story. How did you develop your superpower?

You need to be able to tell this story in ten minutes and also in 90 seconds.

Your origin story is how your significance came to be. It's a critical part of your journey. This is the first step in getting people to love who you are. Share your struggles, discoveries, and successes.

Gary Vaynerchuk has his origin story of how his father immigrated here from Belarus and started a liquor store.

Steve Jobs had his origin story of being adopted and starting his computer company in the garage with his buddy Steve Wozniak.

TRANSFORMATION

The third element is the transformation. This is the moment you discovered your superpower. Think of it in terms of, "And then one day..."

When was the moment you discovered this was your purpose in life?

Jeff Walker of Product Launch Formula had his transformation when he did his first launch of his newsletter to 19 people.

Howard Stern has his "oh wow" moment when he was frustrated and just shared his life on air one day. People started calling, and he knew he was on to something special.

PRINCIPLES

From your origin story, you next need to develop your foundational principles. These are the things that lay the foundation for what you do.

What are the principles you won't break?

Russel Brunson of ClickFunnels believes you're only one funnel away from breaking through.

Dave Ramsey is against credit cards.

STORIES

Next, you need stories that wrap around and demonstrate your principles. Think of these like the parables in the Bible. People learn through story.

There are a few stories from your journey that solidify your principles. Share these stories often. These could be small pieces of your origin story.

Russel Brunson has his potato gun story.

Alex Hormozi has the story of sleeping on the floor just to make it work.

LINGO

Personalities with significance have a certain lingo that superfans use. This is a little insider language.

What phrases do you use often? Find half a dozen sayings that are common in your talks and use them often.

Gary Vaynerchuk talk about arbitrage and hustle.

Dave Ramsey uses “live like no one else so later you can live like no one else”.

WORD OF MOUTH

The final element is word of mouth. You need a handful of superfans who will spread your praises everywhere they can.

Celebrate these people on your show. Get them to tell as many people as possible.

Empower your superfans.

Rush Limbaugh had dittoheads.

Alex Hormozi has MoziNation.

SIGNIFICANCE

When you have accomplished all seven traits of magnetic personalities, you'll see your significance grow.

Would you like my help implementing this into your show and business? Are you struggling to get noticed and grow your influence?

Come join us in the Podcast Profits Accelerator.

This is powerful group that will help you build and implement your podcast monetization strategy. It all begins by becoming a magnetic personality. You can get full details at www.PodcastTalentCoach.com/accelerator.

I can't wait to see you there.

You spend so much time creating your content every week, maximize your time by repurposing your content. One powerful way to repurpose is by converting your podcast into a book.

Each week you create great show notes. Those show notes can be organized into a book.

THE POWER OF CONVERTING A PODCAST INTO A BOOK

There are a variety of benefits of turning your podcast into a book. Let's look at a few.

A book can help you build your legacy. Your book will be around for years to come. Share your story and build your legacy.

Your book can build credibility and expertise. Just having a book gives you credibility. There is an aura around published authors.

A book can help generate leads. In today's world, you can include links to your lead magnets, landing pages and online content within the book. This is especially true in digital form.

When you have a book, you have a reason to be on other stages and expand your network. Your book gives hosts something to interview you about.

You can increase your influence and reach when you have a book. When you book is on Amazon, you have incredible search power. People can find you easily.

Personally, a book can help you get clarity on your message. The writing process helps you refine your message and get clear on exactly what you want to say.

Finally, your book will allow you to share your story and build relationships. People can get to know you better through your book.

HELP TRANSFORMING YOUR PODCAST INTO A BOOK

You don't have to do it alone. There are writing experts who can help you with a variety of steps in converting your podcast into a book.

There are ghost writers who can take your content and write it for you.

You can enlist editors to help you organize the content.

There are specialists who can check your grammar and punctuation.

Others can help you create your cover and format your book.

You can enlist specialists to help with the marketing plan.

Decide where you need help and get started converting your podcast into a book.

PODCAST INTO A BOOK WITH CHERI MERZ

One of the best experts to help you gain more visibility by converting your podcast into a book is my good friend Cheri Merz.

A twenty-five-year serial entrepreneur, Cheri returned to her dream of a writing career after retirement.

Today, with more than thirty indie-published novels, one memoir, and several non-fiction books to her credit, Cheri’s mission is to guide entrepreneurs to integrate an effective book writing and publishing strategy into their visibility plan.

Cheri provides mentoring to craft an engaging signature story. She provides you the expertise and coaching or done-for-you services to publish, launch, and market a high-quality solo or compilation book.

This is an interview from my Podcast Profits Summit. Enjoy my conversation with Cheri Merz.

You can get Cheri's free gift "Podcast to Book Conversion: Essential Tools and Resources" at www.podcasttalentcoach.com/podcasttobook.

LET'S GET STARTED

If you don't have a mentor who can take your hand and walk you every step of the way, go to www.PodcastTalentCoach.com/apply, click the button and apply to have a chat with me. We will develop your plan and see how I can help and support you to achieve your podcast goals.

What is your biggest podcast struggle? On this episode, we are going to help a handful of podcasters overcome their biggest challenge.

LET ME HELP YOU WITH YOUR STRUGGLE

If you are struggling somewhere in your podcast process, shoot me an email. That might be getting started, growing your audience, maintaining consistency, generating revenue or something else. I'd love to help you.

You can send me your struggle and I'll answer it here on the show. Visit www.podcasttalentcoach.com/contact. You can send me a note there.

Here are the important links mentioned in this episode:

Send your question: www.podcasttalentcoach.com/contact

Get CastMagic: www.podcasttalentcoach.com/castmagic (affiliate link)

Get Opus.pro: www.podcasttalentcoach.com/opus (affiliate link)

Podcast editing services: www.podcasttalentcoach.com/editing

Podcast hosting: https://libsyn.com Use coupon code PTC and get your first month free (affiliate code)

Podcast Launch Accelerator: http://www.PodcastTalentCoach.com/pla

THE CHALLENGES

In this episode, we will tackle a variety of challenges.

Tannen wants to know how to create a solid marketing strategy.

Barbara is struggling to get people to subscribe.

Ralph doubts he is even reaching anyone.

Jeffry wants to know how to get started.

The struggle Vanessa is facing is confidence without sounding arrogant.

Michael's biggest struggle is finding people to help him.

THE MARKETING STRUGGLE

My biggest struggle is building a solid marketing strategy? How do I take my show and chop it up for a week's worth of social posts? When do I post them to create consistency?

-Tannen

There are a variety of AI tools that can help you create chunks of content.

Repurposing your content on social media does two things for you. First, it helps you connect with your current listeners keeping them coming back.

Next, sharing on social in the right way can help you reach new listeners. This includes TikTok and reels. Most social media only reaches your followers. These two platforms put your content in front of new people who might be interested.

To grow your show, you need to find new listeners who don't know you.

I recommend you record your podcast on video to begin. Use the video for YouTube to get discovered. You can also repurpose parts of the video for social media content.

Then, use the audio from the video as the podcast. Use this for social content as well.

Create captioned social media videos, quote cards, audiograms, and social posts.

AI can help you create a lot of this. However if you don't have time, you can always pay someone to do it for you. How much is your time worth?

Two tools I really like. The fist is CastMagic. You can find my affiliate link at www.podcasttalentcoach.com/castmagic.

The other tool I love is Opus.pro. It creates captioned social media videos for your podcast. Find my affiliate link at www.podcasttalentcoach.com/opus.

Let me help you. Visit www.podcasttalentcoach.com/editing. You can get a week's worth of social content for every episode.

GETTING SUBSCRIBERS

My biggest struggle is getting subscriptions. How do I get people to subscribe to my podcast?

-Barbara

Start with the why.

When we try to get people to take action, such as subscribing to your podcast, we often rely too much on logic.

People make decisions emotionally. Then, they justify those decisions with logic.

When you spend too much time on the steps in your process, the features in your program or the content on your podcast, people don't take action.

Nobody cares about your details … yet.

Spend more time on the why. Stir emotion.

Make your audience care. Then you can get into the details.

AM I REACHING ANYONE

My biggest podcast struggle right now is actually more of a struggle of faith. I’ve been doing the show daily for over a year and I sometimes doubt whether it’s actually reaching anyone. Since I do a Christian based show, I know that God is always faithful and I simply need to trust in his timing and do the work. It’s just hard some days when I look at the analytics.

-Ralph

Share that on your podcast. Be real. Touch people emotionally.

Spittin' Chicklets just shared a piece on their show. It is a show about hockey.

Whit is former NHL player Ryan Whitney. Biz is former NHL player and NHL hockey analyst on TNT Paul Bissonette. When they talk about being “in the room”, they are talking about being in the locker room.

This audio comes from episode 545. It is an example of remembering why they do it.

So Biz was, sitting in the Delta Lounge, I believe, at the airport, and a guy came over and dropped off this letter. I'm gonna read it to you quick because Biz sent it over to the guys.

He said, “I listened to you guys when my life was falling apart. Just having the pot on in the background made me feel like I was back in the room. At sometimes, I was as bad as it gets with mental health, family, booze, etcetera. Since then, I've quit drinking two plus years now, and me and my family, wife and two little girls have made it out the other side, and we're doing great. You guys will never know how much comfort and support I got from just having the pod on and bringing me back to a good spot. You and Whit and all the boys saved my life. Sorry to bother you on your day off. Thank you, Nick.”

And Biz, like, made it clear to us, like, reading something like that, man, he's got it right there... This is why we do it.

What you're doing is important, Ralph. Keep at it.

I STRUGGLE GETTING STARTED

My biggest podcast struggle is just getting started. How do I find the confidence to take the first step?

-Jeffry

You can do this. We eat an elephant one step at a time.

Break it down. In my Podcast Launch Accelerator, we build your podcast step-by-step.

First, define your why, your topic and your idea target listener.

Next, develop your show structure. Will it be solo, interview or something else?

Get some equipment. You'll need a mic, a laptop and some headphones.

Download Audacity to help you record and edit. It is free software.

Hit record and share your thoughts.

Export your audio as an .mp3. Upload it to your audio host, like Libsyn.

Connect your host to all the podcast players.

Take it one step at a time.

SOUNDING CONFIDENT

How do I sound more confident and less arrogant.

-Vanessa

This is an interesting question, Vanessa. I'm not sure how you can be arrogant without being confident.

People want to know what you know. Share it with them.

Share yourself and your story. Let people fall in love with you.

As Zig Ziglar said quite often, “You can get anything you want in life as long as you help enough other people get what they want.”

Give. Help people reach their goals.

Then, offer to give them more help for an investment.

On this show, I offer a ton of free advice. I would hope you don't feel like I'm arrogant or egotistical. Take my content and put it into action.

However, I'm here when you want more help. When you need someone to walk you every step of the way, reach out. I'm more than willing to have that conversation with you.

Believe in yourself. Some people will love you. Others may not. And that's ok.

Attract the people who love you for who you are.

THE TIME STRUGGLE

My challenge is finding time. It's hard doing it by myself. My biggest podcast struggle right now is finding people to help me.

-Michael

Schedule it. Put it on the calendar. What gets scheduled gets done.

You can also get a co-host. Share the work.

Hire a virtual assistant to take the easy stuff off your plate. This could include creating show notes, posting your episode, and the other rote work that is the same week after week.

As we discussed earlier, you can hire an editor. You can see my work at www.podcasttalentcoach.com/editing.

What is your time worth? Hiring an editor allows you to show up and share your magic. Then, you can hand it off to someone else to do the dirty work while you spend your time getting more clients and generating more revenue.

LET ME HELP YOU

I'd love to help you. You can send me your struggle and I'll answer it here on the show. Visit www.podcasttalentcoach.com/contact. You can send me a note there.

If you're really serious about overcoming your biggest struggle, we can also sit down for an hour of coaching.

I can take your hand and walk you every step of the way. To get the details, go to www.PodcastTalentCoach.com/apply, click the button and apply to have a chat with me. We will develop your plan and see how I can help and support you to achieve your podcast goals.

Curiosity is one of the biggest traits of great personalities. If you want to become a magnetic personality who attracts client to you rather than chasing them, you need to discover how to be more curious.

PEOPLE LOVE CURIOSITY

One of my best on-air talent had a powerful sense of curiosity. He loved to learn about people and things. He also had a unique view of every situation.

His name is Mike, but everyone calls him Big Party. When you think of a guy named Big party, you probably envision a very large, rotund man. This wasn’t the case. Party is an average looking guy. He just makes everyone feel special when they are around him.

His curiosity leads him to ask great question of everyone he meets. When he conducts an interview, he doesn’t have a list of questions. He just asks about the things that pique his curiosity.

One day after I left the radio station, the bosses thought it would be better if Big Party talked less and played more music during his show. The ratings dipped.

But more importantly, Party hated what he was doing. During his vacation, he decided he was going to quit when he returned.

The day came for Party to go back to work, and he changed his mind. But rather than following orders and playing more music, he decided he was going to do his show his way. If they didn’t like it, they could fire him.

He began leading with his curiosity again. The content became stronger. Listeners started to return.

Soon the ratings were back up. And management quit tinkering.

Because Party is interested, he becomes interesting. People want to know what he thinks about things and events, because he has an interesting take.

Curiosity is powerful.

CONTENT FROM CURIOSITY

Curiosity will also help you overcome writers block.

When you’re curious about what’s going on in your surroundings, you never get stuck without things to talk about.

Be curious about the things that happen around you. Take notes. Jot down the things that catch your attention.

Connect those interesting things to powerful stories.

Learn to ask questions about everything.

Don't be so tied to the script or list of questions. Listen intently, and pivot when necessary.

CURIOSITY MAKES YOU SMARTER

When you're curious, you'll naturally become more intelligent. You will be amazed at the things you learn when you look for more information.

Talk less and listen more.

When things happen during your day, ask yourself why.

Remember when you were little and you asked why about everything? Why is the sky blue? Why do dogs bury their bones? And why do we sneeze?

Be curious about things that happen in your life. Take note of the stories associated with those questions.

Curiosity is where most podcasters struggle. It's also why they fail to become influential.

Your content won't keep people coming back every episode. Artificial intelligence can copy your content in a heartbeat. They will only come back if they are attracted to you.

Curiosity is how you develop your personality. How you become a influential authority. Your curiosity and courage will begin to attract clients to you rather than chasing them everyday.

ALSO BE COURAGEOUS

Once you start developing your curiosity, have the courage to share those curiosities on your show.

Express your real thoughts and feelings. Try new things.

When you are curious and courageous, you become more interesting. You become more likable.

This week, start taking notes of the interesting things that happen in your day.

Then, use some of the most interesting in your episodes.

If you don't have a mentor who can take your hand and walk you every step of the way, go to www.PodcastTalentCoach.com/apply, click the button and apply to have a coaching call with me. We will develop your plan and see how I can help and support you to achieve your podcast goals.

There are times when you run out of time. When the time crunch hits, how do you consistently publish your podcast each week?

I RAN OUT OF TIME

My calendar got tight this week. Recording and publishing this episode became a challenge.

I typically record my podcast on Saturdays. On Tuesday we have our Podcast Profits Accelerator calls. Most of my coaching calls are on Thursdays.

This week, we suddenly had visitors coming to town. Then, I had some last minute travel come up.

Next thing I know, I'm running out of time to get everything done.

It takes creativity when you run out of time.

We moved the Podcast Profits Accelerator call to Thursday. My mastermind changed to Saturday. Luckily, one of my clients moved a couple days as well.

Those moves freed up time time to get business done. But what happens with the podcast episode? I still need to publish that.

When you run out of time, there are a few ways to still publish an episode.

WHO CAN HELP

The first thing you can do is find someone who can help you.

I recently read The Road Less Stupid by Keith J. Cunningham. In the book, Cunningham talks about being more productive by doing only the things in your circle of genius. Delegate everything else.

YOUR PRESENTATIONS

To create an episode, what content can you repurpose?

Presentations you've given to other groups can make good content.

Gary Vaynerchuk often uses his keynote speeches for podcast episodes. Alex Hormozi will use recordings of his q&a sessions for episodes.

I've done "ask me anything" sessions on Facebook and used those as podcast episodes.

SUMMIT INTERVIEWS

When you run out of time, summit interviews make great podcast content.

I hold two summits each year. During that summit, I interview 23 different experts. Those interviews become podcast episodes.

People can attend the summit and get all of the content plus ask questions. Or they can wait while the content drips out over time.

With nearly two dozen interviews, I have almost half a year of content to use as necessary.

PLAN AHEAD

Planning ahead helps you avoid running out of time.

Work a week ahead. When you run out of time, you already have the episode recorded for this week. Get ahead of the game.

You can also record an emergency episode. This is an evergreen episode you use in case you have nothing else.

GUEST HOST

One solution few consider when they run out of time is a guest host.

Find another expert in your niche who complements what you do. Ask them to host your episode this week.

You can also share an episode from other podcast to expose their show to your audience. You would simply record an intro and explain.

OTHER INTERVIEWS

Have you been interviewed on other podcasts? You can use those interviews when you run out of time.

You've shared great content with other hosts. Surely your audience would benefit from those conversations.

Use one of those interviews as an episode of your show.

PICK ONE

Those are six solutions you can use when you run out of time and can't find room in the schedule to record a new episode.

If you don't have a mentor who can take your hand and walk you every step of the way, go to www.PodcastTalentCoach.com/apply, click the button and apply to have a chat with me. We will develop your plan and see how I can help and support you to achieve your podcast goals.

In this episode we discuss the significance of building relationships over simply producing better content to achieve audience growth. While many podcasters believe the secret to audience growth lies in creating superior content, the true key lies in fostering better relationships with your audience.

AUDIENCE GROWTH STARTS WITH YOU

Content serves as the initial attraction, but it's the bond between the podcaster and listeners that keeps people coming back for more. People come to your podcast for your content. They stay for you.

My recent trip to Walmart is a perfect example. The lack of human interaction made shopping frustrating. I share that story in this episode.

Compare your experiences at Walmart to the magical, emotion-filled experiences at Disney World. Disney delivers exceptional customer service and relationships that make all the difference.

Strong relationships can create memorable experiences, which is crucial for achieving audience growth in podcasting.

HAVE A CLEAR PLAN

We also talk about the importance of having a plan and a clear objective for achieving audience growth. In this episode, I show you how shared experiences and emotional bonds can build a community.

Following a structured, step-by-step approach, taught by my mentor Iman Aghay, led to significant and quick growth within my own business.

It is critical to your audience growth success that you have a plan. According to available data, studies suggest that around 70% of businesses that survive for five years have a documented business plan.

How does that apply to your growth.

You don't necessarily need a formal MBA business plan. It just means a significant majority of successful businesses rely on a formal plan to achieve their objectives.

DON'T GROW TOO SOON

Executing a strategic plan can lead to audience growth. But, avoid premature growth, which can lead to failure if the product isn’t ready for the market.

Marketing expert David Ogilvy famously said, "Great marketing only makes a bad product fail faster." Ensure your content is engaging and ready to convert first-time listeners into loyal audience members before you aggressively pursue audience growth strategies.

AUDIENCE GROWTH THROUGH COACHING

To help you achieve your audience growth objectives, join me for a one-on-one coaching session. Together we will craft and outline a customized strategy specific for your situation.

I've seen my biggest growth in my business when I've focused on the next most important thing.

Dream big, plan the work, and take action.

Let me help you with a coaching call. Together, we will build your audience growth strategy.

Go to www.PodcastTalentCoach.com/apply, click the button and apply to have a chat with me. We will develop your plan and see how I can help and support you to achieve your podcast goals.

What is your biggest challenge right now? Many podcasters recently shared their answers with me. Today, I'll help you overcome your biggest challenge.

OVERCOMING YOUR BIGGEST CHALLENGE

I've often heard many podcasts fade away after 7 episodes. The industry has termed it podfading.

I thought the number was a bit crazy. Then one day, I realized how true it is.

A client was trying to grow her podcast. Her biggest challenge was attracting new listeners.

We decided the strategy that would fit best was appearing on other podcasts. Let's get in front of her ideal clients.

We opened Apple Podcasts and started searching for podcasts that matched her caregiving niche.

As we combed through the podcasts, nearly every other one had only released a few episodes and the last was months or years ago. They had faded away.

Podfading is real.

THOSE THAT HAVE FADED

I did the same exercise with another client. We opened Apple Podcasts and searched "Get Untuck". Here is what we found.

Even many of the top recommended podcasts have faded away, though with more episodes.

These are listed in order that Apple Podcasts recommended them.

Get Unstuck with Murielle Marie. 23 episodes last published 7/24/23.

Get Unstuck Today by Paul Salter. 47 episodes last published 7/14/24.

How To Get Unstuck with Helen Thomas. 19 episodes last published 5/28/24.

Get Unstuck & On Target by Mike O'Neill. 203 episodes last published 2 days ago.

Get Unstuck. Move Forward With Your Life by Jason Hopcus. 12 episodes last published 4 days ago.

Get Unstuck by Becky Branton-Griemann. 48 episodes last published 4/20/22.

Get Unstuck by Mutita Panmook. 245 episodes last published 1 day ago.

Get Unstuck: Elite Voices Making An Impact by Maiken Kuhl. 31 episodes last published 12/13/24.

Get Unstuck with Michele Lefler. 53 episodes last published 10/17/23.

You get the idea that most of them fade away. But you're saying, "Erik, these all have 40 or 50 episodes."

The next recommended podcast is Get Unstuck & Go by Rodrigo Labra. 4 episodes published last published 2/14/23.

Then there is Unstuck With Me by Barbara Jebet. One episode published 5/7/20.

Get Unstuck & Find Clarity by Lysia Nathanya. 2 episodes last published 10/10/19.

Get Yourself Unstuck by Andrew Eaton – 3 episodes last published 3/27/20.

And it goes on and on.

YOUR BIGGEST CHALLENGES IS USUALLY ONE OF THESE THREE

Most podcasts fade away due to three big challenges. First, the podcast becomes more work than they thought it would be. To overcome this challenge, you need a process in place to consistently produce your show.

Next, podcasts fade away because it doesn't grow as fast as they thought it would. You need a system in place to methodically grow your audience.

Finally, podcasts fade away because it doesn't generate money as fast as they thought it would. Most lack a strategy to generate revenue with their show.

I imagine your biggest challenge has something to do with one of these three.

Let's look at the biggest challenge from each of these listeners and see how we can overcome your hurdles.

APPEARANCES INTO CASH

The most significant challenge I face with podcasts is turning my appearances into cash. While I deeply value the opportunity to share my story and connect with new audiences, I want to better leverage these appearances to generate tangible income, whether through promoting my books, courses, or speaking engagements. Balancing that monetization goal while maintaining authenticity and value for the audience is a priority for me.

-Sheldon

Thanks for the question, Sheldon.

You can maintain your authenticity and value by serving first. Brendon Burchard once said one of the reasons you're not making money is that you don't seek to help first.

If you are using your podcast appearance to help listeners first, it is your obligation to offer to help them go even further by working with you.

You can only teach so much in an interview. Help them clearly see what is possible. You can even point them in the right direction. Then, offer to help them implement it.

Begin by creating a strategy for your interviews. Start with the end in mind. Where do you want to take them?

When I'm interviewed, my goal is to get people to a sales video that will sell my program to help people launch their podcast. The video shows people how to walk through the 21 steps to launch. Then, the video offers the course to implement the checklist.

During the interview, I help people see how easy it is to launch the podcast. We talk about the benefits of having a podcast. I help listeners envision having their own podcast and growing their significance in their niche.

The interview is about inspiration and clarity.

At the end of the interview, I invite people to get my podcast launch minicourse at www.podcasttalentcoach.com/launch. They opt in and get on my list. Then they get access to the 21-point checklist and a video that walks them through it.

After going through the 5-minute video, they are invited to a call with me to answer their questions. Finally, I ask if they would like help implementing the plan.

It's all about having a strategy and begin by serving people first.

SHOULD I START

My biggest challenge is to decide whether to start a podcast or just groom and promote myself as a guest on existing podcasts. I am leaning toward the latter as I am uniquely prepared to bring help, hope and healing to a huge, constantly-growing, group of pain-filled people. On the other hand, I am tech averse and doubt I have inclination, time, skill, or energy to take on development of an adequate self-conducted podcast.

-Dale

These are two separate strategies.

Appear on other podcasts to get discovered and attract new followers.

Have your own podcast to build relationships with your followers.

When you have your own podcast, you get to have a conversation with your listeners every week. You get to share your story and let them get to love you.

Creating a podcast isn't that difficult.

Editing audio is like editing a Word document. Copy, cut, paste, delete. All the same commands.

Saving it as an .mp3 is like exporting that Word document as a .pdf.

If you can upload a photo to Facebook, you can upload audio to your host.

After your podcast is set up, that's about all it takes each week.

To get help walking through the process, join my for the free podcast launch workshop. Get the details at http://www.PodcastTalentCoach.com/launchworkshop.

FINDING NEW AUDIENCES

My biggest challenge is reaching new audiences.

-Jeanette

I have found the best way to grow my audience is partnering with others.

Find people who are speaking to your ideal clients. Then, partner with them to reach more of your ideal clients.

I recently had a former client reach out. She saw me speak on a group call about the power of getting interviewed on other shows.

She called to say she is ready to relaunch her podcast. On top of that, she is partnering with another expert to launch a joint venture and would like my help.

This is the power of partnering with others. You never know who is in the audience.

MY BIGGEST CHALLENGE IS MY AGE

I am 73, so not a spring chicken by any stretch of the imagination, but dumb as a post when it comes to technology. I would very much like to have my own podcast for my business that I am trying to get off the ground, but tech stuff bites me every time. I already have people interested in what I do, and I have had offers to be an affiliate, but I don't know how to set that up on my WordPress site.

-Marilyn

Start slowly, Marilyn. If you already have others interested in what you offer, sell it before you build it.

If you can get 10 or 12 people to invest in a $500 course you teach live over 6 weeks, you can make a quick $5,000.

This is what I did.

I found multiple people who wanted to grow their audience. During conversations with each of them, I offered to teach them how in a 6-week course. They each paid me $500 before it even started.

I recorded the entire program. That became my course. The $5,000 funded my other projects to find more clients.

As I mentioned with Dale, the tech isn't that difficult. Plus, you can also find people to help you produce the show once you begin generating revenue with the course you just built.

You don't need to build a big affiliate program on your Wordpress site until you have something that sells. Just get started.

GETTING GUESTS

My biggest challenge right now is getting consistent guests in my niche.

-Greg

Getting guests typically isn't very difficult. The biggest challenge is asking often.

Not every invite will accept your invitation. Just keep asking.

When you land a guest, ask them for referrals. If they have guest ideas for you, ask them to send an introductory email.

The best chance of getting a guest is finding someone who has something to promote. That could be a book, program, organization or a variety of other things.

Reach out to potential guests on a regular basis. Put it on your calendar and do it often. You'll find success.

PARTNERS

My biggest trouble is connecting with other podcasters to grow my podcast. As you know, many podcasts podfade and I’m finding that to be very true. Many of the podcast I’d love to connect with when I look them up have stopped producing months ago. I would like help in finding the best podcasts I can connect with.

-Edwin

Don't limit your options to only experts in your niche. Find anyone who speaks to your ideal clients.

One of my clients is an accountant. His ideal clients are entrepreneurs.

When he looks for partners, he isn't only looking for other accountants or even experts in the financial space.

He is finding partners by looking for experts speaking to entrepreneurs. I could be a partner for him, because my audience if full of entrepreneurs.

This client could partner with funnel experts, mindset coaches, social media marketing pros, or a variety of other influencers.

Don't limit your scope. Find people speaking to your ideal clients.

When you find a great partner, ask for referrals. Get them to introduce you to others.

Once you get the wheel turning, you'll gain momentum.

Have fun with it.

YOUR BIGGEST CHALLENGE

I would love to help you with your biggest challenge. Email your question or biggest challenge to [email protected].

You can also get an hour of my coaching to build your podcast strategy. You can apply for that call at www.podcasttalentcoach.com/apply.