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

Have you found your podcast host to be lacking in features?

This is exactly the scenario I found myself in when I was with my previous podcasting host, Megaphone. I found that (for me) the interface wasn't the best, and I found a lack in features to help grow my podcast.

So, in this episode, I talk about my decision and experience to switch my podcast hosting platform from Megaphone to Captivate.fm. I'll go through the reasons why I decided that Megaphone wasn't the podcast hosting platform for me and also why I decided to move over to Captivate.fm.

Scroll up and hit play to listen to this episode and pick up some podcasting tips that will help you if you're on the fence about choosing either Megaphone or Captivate.fm as your podcast hosting service. You'll also pick up podcasting tips about how to choose the podcast host that best suits your own podcast.

Episodes mentioned:

• Ep 27: Buzzsprout: Is It Worth the Hype? - https://veritysangan.com/podcast/ep-27-buzzsprout-is-it-worth-the-hype/
• Ep 39: Changing Podcast Host – Is It Time To Switch? - https://veritysangan.com/podcast/ep-39-changing-podcast-host-is-it-time-to-switch/

Links:

Try Captivate free for 7 days - https://veritysangan.com/captivate

Highlights:

• Switching podcast hosts
• Issues with previous host (Megaphone)
• Benefits of new host (Captivate.fm)
• Responsive support team
• Favourite feature: Captivate Sync plugin - Automated post pages and back catalog sync
• Other Captivate.fm features: Monetization options and guest booking section

Timestamps:

• [00:00:01] Switching Podcast Hosts: A Tech Thursday Report
• [00:03:35] Switching Podcast Hosts: What You Need to Know
• [00:04:43] Why I Switched Podcast Hosting Platforms
• [00:11:31] My Journey from Megaphone to Captivate

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In this episode, I'll address the frequently asked question about whether podcasters need to produce weekly episodes. There is no hard and fast rule dictating a weekly release schedule and as a podcaster, you should find a rhythm that works for them. I parallel this with music artists who don't release albums every week, highlighting that consistent output does not necessarily mean weekly episodes.

I'll encourage you to focus on the age-old podcasting tip that is creating quality content and building a loyal audience, rather than feeling pressured to adhere to a specific release schedule. Ultimately, the emphasis is on the fact that podcasting is about finding what works best for you as an individual podcaster and your show.

Highlights:

• Introduction to the question: Do you need to produce weekly podcast episodes?
• Comparison with music artists who release albums less frequently than weekly.
• Emphasizing that consistency does not necessarily mean a weekly release schedule.
• The importance of finding a rhythm that works for the podcaster.
• Highlighting the benefits of releasing episodes less frequently, such as allowing for more focused content and better preparation.
• Encouraging podcasters to prioritize quality over quantity and to set realistic goals for themselves.
• The importance of communication with listeners about release schedules and expectations.

Timestamps:

• [00:00:00] Introduction
• [00:01:32] Debunking the Weekly Release Myth
• [00:02:10] Success Stories: Lessons from the Music Industry
• [00:03:34] Finding Your Podcasting Rhythm
• [00:04:52] The Importance of Quality Over Quantity

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Join me for an insightful conversation with Chris Smith from Podtastic Audio as we dive deep into the world of podcasting audio.

I ask Chris why there seems to be a preference for audio podcasting over video and how listener statistics should inform podcast content. He shares effective ways to improve audio quality in podcasts, pointing out "With audio, you can do more with less. Audio is probably the only content that ever would exist that you can physically consume while doing anything else."

We discuss the immersive experience of audio, podcast advertising, challenges in video editing compared to audio, and much more. You'll hear nuggets of wisdom from Chris like "What's in it for the listeners? I know why you as the podcaster are doing it...But why should the listener care? Why are they here? What are they getting out of this?” We'll also talk about the statistic that 80% of podcasters DON'T use video as part of their podcasting production.

Tune in for actionable podcasting tips and insights on how to create a successful podcast without spending a fortune.

🎧 Listen to Podtastic Audio - https://podtasticaudio.com/

Highlights:

• Advice on creating a great podcast without spending a fortune
• The benefits of audio podcasts and the ability to create an immersive experience for listeners
• The preference for audio podcasts over video podcasts and the freedom and convenience it offers
• Understanding your audience and using listener statistics to inform content creation decisions
• The immersive experience of audio and the quick pacing of YouTube videos
• The significance of audio quality in podcasting and actionable tips for improving it
• The difference between radio and podcast advertising, and the ability to skip ads in podcasts
• The impact of microphone choice, headphone usage, and environment on audio quality
• The importance of engaging content and providing value to the listeners.

Timestamps:

• [00:00:00] Intro
• [00:03:46] Why Focus on Audio Podcasts
• [00:10:16] The Pros and Cons of Audio vs Video Podcasting
• [00:16:05] The Importance of Knowing Your Audience in Podcasting
• [00:21:17] The Power of Audio and YouTube's Quick Pace
• [00:29:48] Improving Audio Quality for Podcasts
• [00:35:51] The Importance of Audio Quality in Podcasting

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In this episode, I discuss the concept of cloaking affiliate links and why it is an important podcast monetization strategy.

I explain what exactly cloaking links means and the various benefits it provides in terms of improving click-through rates, deterring commission theft, and making links more memorable and shareable. These podcasting tips are not to be missed! I then recommend using the WordPress plugin Pretty Links to easily customize and brand your affiliate links. I emphasize the importance of only promoting affiliate products you genuinely trust and believe in.

Links:

• Pretty Links (WordPress plugin):https://prettylinks.com/

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In this episode, I had an engaging conversation with Matt Gilhooly, the host of The Life Shift Podcast. As Matt delved into his journey, he highlighted the importance of maintaining authenticity and curiosity during interviews. As he put it, "I really want it to be a candid conversation, because if you say something that sparks my curiosity, I want to go down that road." Our discussion explored various aspects concerning podcasting, from filtering pitches to formulating spontaneous questions. 

Can we approach strangers for their personal stories? How does one sift through numerous pitches to find the perfect guest? What is the role of active listening in shaping a dynamic podcast interview? How do you transform critical feedback into a symbol of pride? You'll find answers and podcasting tips to all these intriguing questions and explore more as Matt shares invaluable advice and tips for aspiring podcast hosts.

And don't miss out on the fun story behind Matt's unique 'It's Just Okay' t-shirt too! Stick around to the end to find out where you can listen to the Life Shift Podcast and connect with Matt. Get ready for an episode packed with insight, podcasting advice, and inspiration.

🎧 Listen to The Life Shift Podcast: https://www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com/

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Have you ever fallen for common podcasting myths? I'm raising my hand here! I'm Verity from The Lazy Girls Guide to Podcasting and in this straight-talking episode, I'm getting real about assumptions I used to make. 

If you're nodding along to any of these, let me pull back the curtain:

I cringe at what I used to believe before learning these truths. As I reflect on mistakes that misguided me, I realization hit: so many podcasters fall into the same traps! 

So I'm coming clean. Join me as I unpack the myths, missteps, and lessons that now guide my podcasting approach. Whether you're starting out or more experienced, these podcasting tips and my transparency provide an "aha" moment and path forward. 

I'm excited to simplify the complexities around growth and peel back the curtain on the podcasting world. Hit play now to hear me get vulnerable and equip you with game-changing insights!

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Are you ready to take your podcast interviews to the next level?

In this episode of Lazy Girls Guide to Podcasting, I'll reveal a game-changing approach and tips to categorizing podcast guests. Discover the three distinct types of guests that can transform your show and skyrocket engagement. Join me as I share valuable podcasting tips on booking guests, including untapped potential within your circle, finding new voices, and leveraging well-known experts.

Learn how to provide value to your audience and create episodes that leave a lasting impact. Plus, dive into my personal experience and tips on successful guest booking.

Don't miss out on this episode packed with actionable strategies for you and your podcast!

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In this episode, we discuss why doing "listen for listen" or "subscribe for subscribe" exchanges is the worst way to grow your podcast audience. I'll explain why this strategy doesn't lead to genuine growth and instead suggest strategic podcasting tips for promoting your podcast through social media and other channels where your target audience resides.

We'll cover the importance of genuine connection and engagement in building a podcast audience and look at promoting on platforms where your podcast audience is. We also talk about the importance of creating original content to foster community growth. I'll explain why I'm so against the transactional model of growth and instead focus on key strategies that will help you attract listeners who genuinely appreciate their content.

Read the Blog Post: The No 1 WORST Way to Get More Podcast Listeners >> https://veritysangan.com/the-no-1-worst-way-to-get-more-podcast-listeners/

Links:

• Episode 48 - Using Business Marketing Strategies to Promote Your Podcast – Podcast Marketing Series Pt 1

Highlights:

• Importance of batch recording podcasts in busy months like December
• Benefits of splitting up the recording, editing, and note-making processes efficiently
• Common ineffective strategy of 'subscribe for subscribe' or 'listen for listen'
• Importance of genuine connection and engagement in building a podcast audience
• Strategies for promoting on platforms where your audience is
• Creating original content to foster community growth
• Discouraging the transactional model of subscribe-for-subscribe or listen-for-listen
• Importance of creating authentic promotional strategies

Timestamps:

• [00:00:00] Intro
• [00:02:04] Podcast Growth: Do's and Don'ts
• [00:10:52] The importance of authentic audience growth for your Podcast

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Just last month I noticed a significant 78% drop in downloads when I did not promote my podcast on Twitter for two weeks, but no noticeable impact when I stopped promoting on Instagram.

So, in this episode, I explore why not posting on Twitter (or X!) was so impactful on my podcast and offer valuable podcasting tips as to why it's so important to choose the right platform for promoting your podcast, based on where your audience is.

Creating effective podcast show notes that can attract potential listeners, increase downloads, and boost your subscriber count is a pivotal part of podcast production. So, in this episode, I'll share my podcasting tips and strategies to enhance your show notes, including writing catchy headlines, providing brief episode overviews, using timestamps, and avoiding technical jargon.

We will touch on the significance of incorporating SEO techniques to improve your podcast's visibility in search engine results. Learn how to utilise keywords and phrases strategically in your show notes to reach a wider audience and increase your podcast's discoverability.

Furthermore, I'll introduce you to my favourite efficient online tool, Summarize.com, which auto-generates show notes, timestamps, hashtags, social media posts, and even email templates. Discover how this fantastic resource can simplify your podcast promotion process and save you time!

Read the Blog Post: How to Write Stand-Out Podcast Show Notes >> https://veritysangan.com/how-to-write-stand-out-podcast-show-notes/

Links:

• Summaraize -https://veritysangan.com/summaraize
• Otter.ai -https://veritysangan.com/otter
• Hemingway App -https://hemingwayapp.com/

Timestamps:

• [00:00:00] Introduction
• [00:00:24] Mastering Podcast Show Notes
• [00:02:25] Improving Your Podcast Show Notes
• [00:05:46] Practical Tips for Crafting Compelling Podcast Show Notes
• [00:07:47] The Importance of Show Notes for your Podcast: Tools and Strategies

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