Podcasting for Indie Podcasters: Podcasting Tips for How to Start and Run a Podcast

In this episode, I explore the idea of interviewing your competitors on your podcast. When considering this, it's important to differentiate between general competitors and direct competitors.

General competitors simply exist in your broader niche and can provide additional perspectives to conversations. Direct competitors target the exact same audience as you and sell similar offerings.

If you're using your podcast to attract ideal clients or customers, interviewing direct competitors may not be the most strategic move. You don't want to provide your audience with other options besides yourself. However, there can be value in interviewing general competitors as a way to add more diversity of opinions and insights for your listeners' benefit.

When considering who to interview, my biggest podcasting tips is that you want to select guests who will truly add value for your listeners and align with your podcast objectives. The key is finding the right balance between collaborating with others in your niche and safeguarding your own business interests.

Episodes mentioned:

• Ep 10: Guest Booking Tips: It’s Not About the Numbers
• Ep 18: Why You Need A Podcast Guest Release Form (and How to Write One)
• Ep 56: How to Attract High-Value Guests to Your Show

Highlights

1. Should you interview your competitors on your podcast?
2. Differentiating between generalized competitors and direct competitors
3. Considering if podcast guests are competitors or collaborators
4. Pricing as a factor in determining if someone is a direct competitor
5. Evaluating the potential benefits and drawbacks of interviewing competitors on your podcast
6. Deciding on potential guests based on whether they are general competitors or direct competitors
7. Balancing the benefits of collaboration with protecting your own interests when interviewing competitors on your podcast

Timestamps:

• 00:00:00 Intro
• 00:00:20 Should You Interview Your Competitors on Your Podcast?
• 00:02:15 Strategic Approaches to Engaging with Competitors in a Niche Space
• 00:03:56 Considering Whether Podcast Guests Are Competitors or Collaborators
• 00:05:38 Should You Interview Your Competitors on Your Podcast?
• 00:06:45 Consider the Type of Guests You Invite on Your Podcast
• 00:08:01 Interviewing Competitors: Tips and Considerations

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In this episode, I am going to answer one of my most asked questions: How much time do I need to podcast? So this episode will answer that question and also give you some podcasting tips for your own process for running your podcast efficiently.

When researching an episode, I spend a maximum of 30 minutes gathering accurate information. My solo episodes run 10-20 minutes while my guest interviews last up to 60 minutes. I aim for a 1:1 ratio between recording and editing time. So if an episode takes 20 minutes to record, I'll spend 20 minutes editing it.

For promotional content, I lean on tools like Canva and Summarize. In about an hour a week, I can create social captions, graphics and short video clips. I'm most active in engaging with other podcasters on Twitter.

To interview guests smoothly, I set up automated booking links, research each guest beforehand, and prepare 3-4 potential questions. This prep ensures an on-topic, professional discussion.

Listen in for more tips to make your podcasting production process run as smoothly as possible.

Tools mentioned:

• Lazy Pod Club - https://veritysangan.com/lazypodclub
• SummarAIze - https://veritysangan.com/summaraize
• Canva - https://veritysangan.com/canva

Highlights:

• The efficiency of the podcast recording process
• Importance of accurate information and quick research
• Duration of solo episodes and guest interviews
• Time requirements for editing
• Balancing recording and editing in podcast production
• Workflow for podcast editing and promotion

Timestamps:

• 00:00:00 Intro
• 00:01:20 Podcast Recording Process Optimization
• 00:02:28 Podcast Recording and Editing Insights
• 00:03:29 Finding the Right Balance Between Recording and Editing Podcasts
• 00:06:14 Managing Time for Podcast Production and Promotion
• 00:07:43 Tips for Setting Up a Successful Podcast Guest Interview Process
• 00:09:05 Tips for Running a Podcast Efficiently

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I want to provide you with a detailed breakdown of how much it really costs me to start and run my podcast, The Lazy Girl's Guide to Podcasting.

This episode is honest, and it's gritty. And it's something that not enough podcasters are covering or being honest about.

I'm going to be completely transparent and break down every expense - from software subscriptions to website fees. My hope is that this will give you a realistic idea of what to budget for if you want to start podcasting or aren't sure about your own podcast spend.

I encourage you to calculate your own cost per episode, whether podcasting is a hobby or a business. It's important to understand exactly what you are investing and make sure it aligns with the value you receive. I'll give you some strategies and podcasting tips to help you calculate your cost per episode and also insights into the tools that I use for my podcast.

Tools mentioned:

• Captivate.fm - https://veritysangan.com/captivate
• Riverside.fm - https://veritysangan.com/riverside
• SummarAIze - https://veritysangan.com/summaraize
• Canva Pro - https://veritysangan.com/canva
• Thrivecart - https://veritysangan.com/thrivecart
• Hostinger - https://veritysangan.com/hostinger
• Elementor Pro - https://veritysangan.com/elementorplugin
• WPRocket - https://veritysangan.com/wp-rocket

Highlights:

• Podcast hosting costs with Captivate.fm
• Graphics creation with Canva
• Software used for podcasting: Riverside FM and Summarize
• Website expenses breakdown: domain name, WordPress, Elementor Pro, WP Rocket
• Email marketing with ConvertKit
• Cart checkout with ThriveCart
• Total annual spend on the podcast
• Comparison to podcast manager costs
• Using AI tools like Summarize for content creation
• Importance of knowing your podcast costs and evaluating spending per episode

Timestamps:

• 00:00:00 Intro
• 00:02:00 Podcast Software Expenses
• 00:04:26 Website Expenses
• 00:05:11 Tools for Email Marketing and Cart Checkout
• 00:08:20 Cost breakdown of running a podcast
• 00:11:18 Streamlining Content Creation with AI Tools
• 00:12:09 The Cost of Podcasting: A Breakdown of Expenses

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Do you experiment enough with your podcast?

In this episode, I am joined by Adam from Podcasting Business School to discuss the importance of experimenting more with your podcast. I know it can be scary to try new things, worried you might lose listeners. But be brave - what's the worst that could happen? The worst-case scenario is that your listeners will skip an episode they don't love rather than unsubscribe.

We share examples and podcasting tips of experiments, like workshop weeks with multiple episodes released at once and incorporating audience audio clips. Podcasting is still new with few rules, so we have so much room for creativity.

Consider what's holding you back from experimenting. Is it fear of failure? Know that one "bad" episode won't ruin your podcast. And trying new things, whether it's your format, guests, topics, or marketing, could take your show to the next level.

I'm here to tell you - be fearless. The opportunities here are immense, for both hosts and guests. This is the frontier, and together we're still shaping what podcasting can become. So try something new today! What do you have to lose?

Highlights:

• The fear of putting out a bad episode and losing subscribers.
• Examples of podcast experiments, such as workshop weeks and audience audio clips.
• Creating snippet episodes to cater to a specific audience.
• The evolving nature of podcasting and the lack of rules.
• The freedom and opportunity podcasting provides for creators and guests.
• Podcasting as a business tool and its growth and acceptance.
• Using experimentation to improve format, guests, questions, topics, and marketing.
• Overcoming the fear of potential outcomes and embracing new ideas.



Timestamps:

• 00:00:00 Do You Experiment Enough with Your Podcast?
• 00:01:07 How to be Fearless and Experiment with Your Podcast Content
• 00:03:49 The Frontier of Podcasting: Rule-Breaking and Innovation
• 00:05:51 The Potential of Podcasting as a Business Tool
• 00:08:45 Experimenting with Your Podcasting

Guest bio:

Adam Schaeuble is a full-time podcaster, podcasting business consultant, and the host of the Apple Top 100 ranked podcast Podcasting Business School. Adam uses his three-phase Podcasting Business Accelerator process to help coaches, consultants, and service providers leverage podcasting to generate a 6 figure income stream while subtracting at least ONE day from their work week.

• Listen to Podcasting Business School: https://www.podcastingbusiness.school/
• Website: https://www.podcastingbusiness.school/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastingbusinessschool/

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Are you ever hit with shiny object syndrome when it comes to podcasting tech? You know what I mean; you see (or hear) someone talking about another piece of podcasting tech, and you're convinced that switching to something new will propel your podcast forward.

But is the grass always greener on the other side?

It's a common struggle of podcasters; facing analysis paralysis when it comes to choosing podcasting tech tools and platforms. So in this episode, I share my experience of feeling stuck in the endless search for the perfect tools and emphasize the importance of prioritizing content creation over constantly trying new tools.

We talk about how and why it's so important to focus on the basics, such as a podcast hosting platform, recording and editing software, and graphic design tools for podcast artwork. I'll even give you some recommendations for podcast tech and software that you might want to check out if you haven't found something you like yet.

But overall, the biggest podcast tips for this episode is to stop getting distracted by 'shiny object syndrome' and sticking with what works best for you as the podcaster, and your podcast.

Afterall, your audience come to you for your content; not because of the tech you've used during production.

Tools mentioned:

• Captivate.fm - https://veritysangan.com/captivate
• Buzzsprout - https://veritysangan.com/buzzsprout
• Riverside.fm - https://veritysangan.com/riverside
• Canva - https://veritysangan.com/canva

Highlights:

• Importance of prioritizing content creation over tech tools
• Advice to stick with what works and focus on basics
• Avoiding 'shiny object syndrome' in podcasting tech
• Essential tools for starting a podcast: hosting platform, recording/editing software, graphic design tools
• Importance of having the basics in place and focusing on content creation

Timestamps:

• 00:00:00 Intro
• 00:01:07 Overcoming Podcast Tech Analysis Paralysis
• 00:03:08 Stick with What Works and Focus on the Basics - Podcasting Advice
• 00:04:27 Essential Tools for Starting a Podcast
• 00:07:50 Advice on Choosing Podcast Tech Stack Wisely

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I know first-hand how tough it can be to land on the perfect name for your podcast. So if you're struggling to name your new podcast, or wondering if you should rename your existing show, I want to share three crucial podcasting tips to consider:

First, ensure your title targets keywords your audience is actually searching for. You want your podcast to appear when listeners search relevant terms on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Generic names or obscure puns likely won't rank well.

Second, create a title that speaks to your listeners and draws them in. The name should clearly communicate what they can expect from hitting play on your latest episode.

And third, it should be obvious at a glance what your show is about. Strong podcast discovery happens through word-of-mouth, with fans recommending episodes to their friends. So make it easy for them to explain what you cover.

The goal is to end up with a podcast name optimized for discovery and engagement. I want you to attract your ideal audience, keep them hooked, and make it effortless for them to share your show with like-minded friends. So let searchability, intrigue and clarity guide you as you name or even rename your podcast.

Read the Blog Post: How to Name Your Podcast in 2024 >> https://veritysangan.com/how-to-name-your-podcast-in-2024/

Highlights:

• The importance of selecting a podcast name that reflects content and resonates with your target audience
• Being open to changing podcast title if needed
• Value of experimentation and adaptation in podcast naming
• Strategies for naming a podcast to improve searchability and discoverability
• Using relevant keywords in podcast titles for search rankings

Timestamps:

• 00:00:00 Intro
• 00:01:45 Choosing a Name for a Podcast
• 00:04:34 Tips for Creating Engaging Podcast Titles
• 00:05:28 Tips for Improving Podcast Discoverability
• 00:06:40 The Importance of Clearly Communicating Your Podcast's Content

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Josiah and Travis from Print on Demand Cast join us in this episode to discuss common mistakes in the print-on-demand industry, particularly for podcasters using print-on-demand for their podcasting merch.

They share their top podcasting tips for starting print-on-demand services for podcast merchandise and explore different types of print-on-demand products and services and how podcasters can leverage them for their podcasts.

Travis and Josiah provide valuable insights on how to navigate the landscape of merchandising and highlight the importance of engagement with the audience. They emphasize the variety of merchandise beyond t-shirts and hoodies, offering a wide range of products for podcasters to consider.

Additionally, they discuss the Print on Demand Cast podcast as a helpful resource for those looking to learn more about the print-on-demand business model.

Highlights:

• Common mistakes in the print-on-demand industry
• Top tips for starting print-on-demand services for podcast merchandise
• Different types of print-on-demand products and services
• How podcasters can leverage print-on-demand for their podcasts
• Navigating the landscape of merchandising in print-on-demand
• Importance of engagement in print on demand for podcast merchandise
• Variety of merchandise options beyond t-shirts and hoodies
• Insights on starting a print-on-demand journey
• Introduction to the Print on Demand Cast podcast as a resource

Timestamps:

• 00:00:00 Intro
• 00:01:00 Common Mistakes in Print-on-Demand Merch
• 00:01:21 Tips for Starting a Print-on-Demand Journey for Podcast Merchandise
• 00:18:37 Discussion on Print on Demand with Travis Josiah

Guest bio:

Travis and Josiah have been selling products online since 2014. In 2017, Travis made the switch to begin selling print on demand products and Josiah was soon to follow. Over the first few years of POD, they talked about starting a podcast that they wished was available when they began, but drug their feet until eventually creating the Print On Demand Cast in late 2020.

Over the past few years the show has grown and both Travis and Josiah have learned a lot about podcasting and print on demand. Today with more than 175 episodes, they continue to enjoy sharing all about the Print On Demand industry, as well as the weekly dad joke and whatever other entertaining or silly anecdote will make the other laugh!

• Website:http://printondemandcast.com
• Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/printondemandcast
• Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/printondemandcast/
• YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@PrintOnDemandCast

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In this episode of The Lazy Girl's Guide to Podcasting, I'm joined by Travis and Josiah from Print on Demand Cast to discuss creating merchandise for your podcast using print-on-demand services.

They provide practical podcasting tips on getting started with print-on-demand, deciding what products to sell, designing effective merch, avoiding common mistakes, and leveraging merch to promote your show.

Highlights

• Definition and significance of print on demand in e-commerce
• Leveraging print-on-demand services to generate revenue for podcasts
• Platforms for creating and selling merchandise for podcasts (e.g., Printful, Spring, Teespring)
• Designing merch that resonates with the podcast audience
• Importance of utilizing existing assets like logos and websites for merch design
• Creating niche branded merchandise to appeal to listeners
• Tips for setting up merchandise from a print-on-demand service for a podcast
• Keeping merchandise relevant to the podcast's content and audience

Timestamps:

• 00:00:00 Intro
• 00:01:13 Print on Demand Business and Podcasting Journey
• 00:02:51 Print-on-demand and E-commerce Businesses
• 00:07:23 Monetizing Podcasts Through Merchandise
• 00:08:33 Exploring the Business of Print on Demand in Podcasting
• 00:11:00 Creating Merch for Your Podcast: A Beginner's Guide
• 00:14:55 Strategies for Creating and Selling Podcast Merchandise

Guest bio:

Travis and Josiah have been selling products online since 2014. In 2017, Travis made the switch to begin selling print-on-demand products and Josiah was soon to follow. Over the first few years of POD, they talked about starting a podcast that they wished was available when they began, but drug their feet until eventually creating the Print On Demand Cast in late 2020.

Over the past few years, the show has grown and both Travis and Josiah have learned a lot about podcasting and print on demand. Today with more than 175 episodes, they continue to enjoy sharing all about the Print On Demand industry, as well as the weekly dad joke and whatever other entertaining or silly anecdote will make the other laugh!

• Website:http://printondemandcast.com
• Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/printondemandcast
• Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/printondemandcast/
• YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@PrintOnDemandCast

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In this week's Tech Thursday episode, I'm talking all about taking short snippets from your podcast episodes and repurposing them as promotional videos for social media, such as Instagram Reels and TikTok.

I'll highlight some useful features in Riverside FM, like their Magic Clips tool that automatically selects clips from your episodes that could work well for social media. We will discuss using AI tools like Riverside and VideoAI for creating and editing video content, pointing out the advantages and minor limitations of each platform.

You'll discover the importance of adding captions to social media videos to boost engagement and accessibility. And I will also share with you my process for making shareable videos with captions for Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter and more.

Read the Blog Post: How to Use TikTok to Promote Your Podcast

Links Mentioned:

• Ep 63: Why I Quit Promoting My Podcast on TikTok
• Riverside.fm -https://veritysangan.com/riverside
• Vidyo.ai -https://vidyo.ai
• ContentStudio -https://veritysangan.com/contentstudio

Highlights

• Repurposing podcast snippets for promoting on social media platforms like Instagram Reels and TikTok.
• Using Riverside FM to create video snippets for social media promotion, including the new Magic Clips feature.
• Advantages of using VideoAI for generating captions in videos and comparison with Riverside's caption options.
• Tips for saving upload minutes on VideoAI by creating clips on platforms like Riverside.
• Importance of adding captions to social media videos for increased engagement and accessibility.
• Creating engaging social media videos for promoting podcasts with captions, visuals, and audiograms.

Timestamps:

• 00:00:00 Intro
• 00:00:22 How to Use Podcast Snippets for Instagram Reels and TikTok Videos
• 00:01:22 Using Riverside FM to Create Video Snippets for Social Media Promotion
• 00:02:30 Using AI Tools for Content Creation and Editing
• 00:03:24 Benefits of Using VideoAI for Captioning
• 00:04:41 Tips for Using Video AI and Riverside for Podcast Editing
• 00:09:00 Master Class Ideas and Behind-the-Scenes Recording

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Are podcasting rules even real?

In this episode, I reveal the 7 podcasting rules I deliberately break...and how that unconventional approach led my show to exponential growth.

You won't find intros, outros, or strict formatting here. Instead, I skip the fluff and focus on quality content that connects with my listeners.

I'll share my podcasting tips on why I don't waste money on expensive equipment or studios, rarely bother with video, and steer clear of interview-only formats.

My rule-breaking style clearly works - my podcast continues growing its audience every single month.

Whether you're an experienced podcaster or just starting out, I'll inspire you to throw out the rulebook and redefine what it takes to truly thrive.

Highlights:

• Not having a traditional intro and outro
• Not following a strict episode format
• Including transcripts in episodes for SEO purposes
• Not upgrading equipment
• Not using a script

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