Many aspiring podcast guests make the mistake of overloading their pitches with unnecessary details, excessive self-promotion, and a lack of personality. These generic, templated pitches fail to grab a host’s attention and, more and more, are getting ignored as podcasters look for how the guest can impact their audience.

In this episode from the Season 3 Co-Host Collective of Let's Blow This Up, Simona Costantini, Traci DeForge, and yours truly are breaking down why simpler is better when it comes to pitching yourself as a podcast guest. Instead of overwhelming hosts with a long-winded email, we reveal an easy-to-implement strategy that makes your pitch stand out.

Authenticity is the key to securing guest spots, yet many pitches sound robotic and impersonal. We discuss how focusing on the value you bring to the host’s audience—rather than just talking about yourself—can drastically improve your success rate.

By shifting your approach, simplifying your pitch, and doing something as simple as starting a conversation, you can build better relationships with podcast hosts. Tune in to learn exactly what to say (and what to avoid) so you can start landing more guest opportunities with ease.

Key Takeaways:

• Overcomplicated pitches get ignored—keep it simple and to the point.
• Stop making your pitch all about you; focus on what the audience will gain by hearing your story and expertise.
• Authenticity matters more than a perfectly polished, templated email.
• Show that you understand the podcast and why you're a great fit for it.
• Personalize your pitch instead of using a copy-paste approach.
• One simple shift in your strategy can significantly increase your chances of getting booked.

Connect with Simona Costantini: Website | Instagram
Connect with Traci DeForge: Website | LinkedIn

Season 3 of Let's Blow This Up is proudly sponsored by The Podcast Professionals Association! Click here to learn more about this growing organization.

Did a tip or strategy from this podcast change the game for you? Buy Me a Coffee to say thanks!

Schedule a Free Discovery Call with Jason Cercone

MUSIC CREDITS:

Podcasting Strategy Simplified: Burn The Track (Inspiring Rock Trailer) by Alex Grohl on pixabay.com

Let's Blow This Up: Aggressive Metal Trailer (Dragon Heart) by Alex Grohl on pixabay.com

Thank you for listening and becoming an official member of The Bomb Squad!

Life is all about building relationships. Whether in your personal or professional life, the strength of your relationships will dictate the level of success and happiness you feel.

In the business world, networking and making key connections is critical to growing in your brand, generating opportunities for yourself, and...to put it bluntly, getting shit done.

For years, I've firmly believed in the power of in-person networking and, since making podcasting such a huge part of my life, I've discovered the podcast medium presents the greatest digital networking platform in the world. If you use these platforms properly, there's no limit to how many powerful, meaningful, and lucrative relationships you will build!

In this installment of Let's Blow This Up, I'm joined by the one and only Julie Brown, renowned keynote speaker, author of This Shit Works, and quintessential networking authority for an in-depth conversation on the power of networking in-person, virtually, and with your podcast.

In this conversation, we'll discuss:

• Getting back to in-person networking after the pandemic
• How to game plan for results with your networking efforts
• Why the podcast medium continues to be underutilized when it comes to networking
• Why introverts make phenomenal networkers
• Tips and strategies for YOU to succeed at networking

Connect with Julie
Website | LinkedIn

Pick up a copy of Julie's Book, This Shit Works

Season 3 of Let's Blow This Up is proudly sponsored by The Podcast Professionals Association! Click here to learn more about this growing organization.

Did a tip or strategy from this podcast change the game for you? Buy Me a Coffee to say thanks!

Schedule a Free Discovery Call with Jason Cercone

MUSIC CREDITS:

Podcasting Strategy Simplified: Burn The Track (Inspiring Rock Trailer) by Alex Grohl on pixabay.com

Let's Blow This Up: Aggressive Metal Trailer (Dragon Heart) by Alex Grohl on pixabay.com

Thank you for listening and becoming an official member of The Bomb Squad!

Podcasting is more than just creating content. It’s one of the most powerful digital networking tools available. Whether you're hosting or guesting, a podcast opens doors to meaningful relationships that can lead to collaborations, business opportunities, and long-term connections.

In this episode from the Season 3 Solo Series of Let's Blow This Up, I'm digging deeper into the power of leveraging the podcast medium as a networking tool.

As a host, your podcast gives you a unique reason to reach out to high-level guests, industry experts, and potential business partners. Instead of a cold pitch, you're offering them a platform to share their insights - creating a natural foundation for building rapport and future collaborations.

As a guest, your appearance shouldn’t be a one-time interaction. It’s a chance to establish a deeper connection with the host. Engaging before, during, and after the episode, following up with value, and finding ways to continue the conversation can turn a single podcast interview into a lasting professional relationship.

If used strategically, podcasting can become the most valuable networking tool in your arsenal, allowing you to cultivate connections at scale. By prioritizing relationship-building over transactions, you can turn every episode into an opportunity to expand your network in a meaningful and impactful way.

Key Takeaways:

• Podcasting is a top-tier digital networking platform.
• Hosting a podcast gives you a natural reason to connect with industry leaders.
• Being a guest is an opportunity to build long-term relationships, not just a one-time appearance.
• Following up and providing value strengthens connections made through podcasting.
• Meaningful relationships are built through engagement before, during, and after the recording.
• A strategic podcasting approach turns content creation into a networking powerhouse.

Season 3 of Let's Blow This Up is proudly sponsored by The Podcast Professionals Association! Click here to learn more about this growing organization.

Did a tip or strategy from this podcast change the game for you? Buy Me a Coffee to say thanks!

Schedule a Free Discovery Call with Jason Cercone

MUSIC CREDITS:

Podcasting Strategy Simplified: Burn The Track (Inspiring Rock Trailer) by Alex Grohl on pixabay.com

Let's Blow This Up: Aggressive Metal Trailer (Dragon Heart) by Alex Grohl on pixabay.com

Thank you for listening and becoming an official member of The Bomb Squad!

Podcast download numbers are a crucial metric, but knowing when and how to analyze them is much more important. 

In this episode of the Let's Blow This Up Co-Host Collective Series, I’m joined by Marc Ronick and Simona Costantini to break down the role of download numbers and how podcasters should use them effectively.

How long should you wait until you begin analyzing your metrics?

When do download numbers matter?

What's the best way to evaluate these numbers and use them to enhance your efforts?

Answers to these burning questions and more await you in this action-packed episode!

A big factor in tracking downloads is how podcast hosting platforms, including Spotify as a stand-alone host, report their numbers. We explore the differences in metrics between hosts and share tips for getting the most accurate picture of your podcast’s performance.

While downloads matter, they shouldn’t be an obsession—great content and audience connection should always come first. By focusing on producing valuable episodes, podcasters can build a loyal listener base that goes beyond the numbers.

Key Takeaways:

• Download numbers are important, but knowing when to analyze and utilize them is key.
• Metrics from different hosting platforms may vary, so understanding the differences is essential.
• Using Spotify as a stand-alone host provides unique insights separate from traditional hosting platforms.
• Tracking download numbers helps podcasters make strategic content and marketing decisions.
• Obsessing over numbers can be counterproductive—engagement and connection matter more.
• The best approach is to focus on quality content that resonates with your audience.

Connect with Marc Ronick: Website | Instagram
Connect with Simona Costantini: Website | Instagram

Season 3 of Let's Blow This Up is proudly sponsored by The Podcast Professionals Association! Click here to learn more about this growing organization.

Did a tip or strategy from this podcast change the game for you? Buy Me a Coffee to say thanks!

Schedule a Free Discovery Call with Jason Cercone

MUSIC CREDITS:

Podcasting Strategy Simplified: Burn The Track (Inspiring Rock Trailer) by Alex Grohl on pixabay.com

Let's Blow This Up: Aggressive Metal Trailer (Dragon Heart) by Alex Grohl on pixabay.com

Thank you for listening and becoming an official member of The Bomb Squad!

The Podcast Professionals Association is the podcast industry's only nonprofit trade association, recently receiving its coveted 501(c)(6) status. The PPA consists of experienced podcast producers, audio engineers, marketing specialists, podcast managers, coaches, consultants, and more.

In this installment of Let's Blow This Up, I'll be joined by the PPA's Co-Founders, Traci DeForge and Jenn Trepeck! This duo discovered a significant need in the podcast space and, throughout this conversation, we're going to learn more about their mission and the PPA's dedication to supporting podcast service professionals across the globe.

Some of the topics we'll be covering:

• What is the PPA and what originally inspired its formation?
• How does this nonprofit organization support podcasters (no matter where they're at in their journey)?
• Why is the PPA something that's needed in our industry?
• What role do Jenn and Traci want the PPA to play as the organization continues to grow and establish relationships with other entities in the podcast world?

If you're a professional in the podcast space or someone looking for to access to legitimate, established professionals to ensure your podcasting efforts are maximized, check out this conversation and discover how the PPA can support your ongoing efforts!

Learn more about the PPA at podcastprofessionalsassociation.com

Click here to email Jenn & Traci directly

Season 3 of Let's Blow This Up is proudly sponsored by The Podcast Professionals Association! Click here to learn more about this growing organization.

Did a tip or strategy from this podcast change the game for you? Buy Me a Coffee to say thanks!

Schedule a Free Discovery Call with Jason Cercone

MUSIC CREDITS:

Podcasting Strategy Simplified: Burn The Track (Inspiring Rock Trailer) by Alex Grohl on pixabay.com

Let's Blow This Up: Aggressive Metal Trailer (Dragon Heart) by Alex Grohl on pixabay.com

Thank you for listening and becoming an official member of The Bomb Squad!

Are you wondering if doing your podcast in season format can actually work? Today, I'm bringing you tangible proof.

In this installment of Let's Blow This Up, I'm breaking down why podcast seasons are a viable option for building your podcast AND creating the marketing content you need to grow your brand. 

But I'm not doing it alone. I've got real-life testimony from four of my clients:

• Mary Kitchen, Co-Host of The Cleanup Crew: Bookkeeping Without the Chaos
• Charlie Krebs, Host of Soft Skills: Strong Results
• Erin Marks, Marketing Director of Precise, Inc., the law firm behind the podcast Data Discourse
• Cassie Brkich, Host of Design and Thrive

I also share a story that impacted me just recently and reaffirmed my belief in building this show in season format. 

Producing in seasons allows for better planning, higher-quality content, and a more strategic approach to branding. Instead of scrambling to release new episodes weekly, podcasters can focus on delivering well-thought-out content that aligns with their goals.

Ultimately, the best podcast format is the one that works for you, your schedule, and your brand's long-term vision. If a seasonal structure helps you create better content and stay consistent, then run with it!

Key Takeaways:

• A seasonal podcast format can help creators stay consistent while avoiding burnout.
• Planning content in batches allows for higher-quality episodes and better storytelling.
• Seasons give podcasters the flexibility to align their content with brand goals.
• A continuous release schedule isn’t the only way to build an engaged audience.
• Real-life examples featured in this episode show that many podcasters find success with a seasonal approach.
• The best format is the one that supports your workflow and long-term strategy.

Season 3 of Let's Blow This Up is proudly sponsored by The Podcast Professionals Association! Click here to learn more about this growing organization.

Did a tip or strategy from this podcast change the game for you? Buy Me a Coffee to say thanks!

Schedule a Free Discovery Call with Jason Cercone

MUSIC CREDITS:

Podcasting Strategy Simplified: Burn The Track (Inspiring Rock Trailer) by Alex Grohl on pixabay.com

Let's Blow This Up: Aggressive Metal Trailer (Dragon Heart) by Alex Grohl on pixabay.com

Thank you for listening and becoming an official member of The Bomb Squad!

Growing your podcast often requires some outside-the-box thinking. It's not just about posting new episodes on social media or repurposing your content for other platforms or telling everyone within earshot you have a podcast they should consume today.

Imagine the conversations that would start if one of your loyal fans was wearing a hoodie with your show's logo on it!

Or maybe your logo pops up on a coffee mug on someone else's livestream.

The possibilities are endless...and huge! 

In this episode of Let's Blow This Up, I'm joined by the incomparable Michael Bickett, Founder and COO of Certified Crucial, for a deep dive into elevated strategies for growing your podcast, including but not limited to...wait for it...MERCH!

Throughout this conversation, Michael drops phenomenal insight to help you incorporate merchandise into your podcast growth strategies. Smash that play button and discover:

• The tangible impact merch can have on your audience
• How to build a well-curated merchandise strategy
• Why merch won't matter if your content isn't on point
• Innovative ways to use merch you've probably never thought about

Connect with Michael:
Certified Crucial | Geeks Under the Influence

Season 3 of Let's Blow This Up is proudly sponsored by The Podcast Professionals Association! Click here to learn more about this growing organization.

Did a tip or strategy from this podcast change the game for you? Buy Me a Coffee to say thanks!

Schedule a Free Discovery Call with Jason Cercone

MUSIC CREDITS:

Podcasting Strategy Simplified: Burn The Track (Inspiring Rock Trailer) by Alex Grohl on pixabay.com

Let's Blow This Up: Aggressive Metal Trailer (Dragon Heart) by Alex Grohl on pixabay.com

Thank you for listening and becoming an official member of The Bomb Squad!

Video continues to be a hot-button issue in the world of podcasting and creators are feeling the pressure to add a visual component to their shows.

So today, The Co-Host Collective is here to discuss the impact video is having on podcast production, how its use is changing the landscape, and...we'll answer the question: is video crushing the podcast medium?

This installment of The Co-Host Collective features yours truly, Ana Xavier of The Podcast Space, and Simona Costantini of Volt Productions. Together, we are breaking down the difference between basic video production and high-end, highly-edited content filled with effects, transitions, and b-roll and helping you understand how to determine what level of production will work best for you.

For podcast editors and producers, positioning video editing services correctly is crucial in attracting the right clients. We explore the best ways to communicate the value of video production and how to price these services effectively.

We also address common pitfalls podcasters face when incorporating video, from overestimating their capabilities to underestimating the time commitment. 

Key Takeaways:

• Video is becoming a dominant force in podcasting, but not every show needs it.
• There’s a big difference between simple video recordings and fully-produced video content.
• Podcasters need to set realistic expectations for what their video will look like.
• Podcast editors can position video services effectively by clarifying the level of production offered.
• High-end video production requires more time, skill, and resources than many podcasters anticipate.
• Understanding the role of video in a podcast can help creators make better decisions for their brand and overall content strategy.

Connect with Simona: Website | Instagram
Connect with Ana: Website | Instagram

Season 3 of Let's Blow This Up is proudly sponsored by The Podcast Professionals Association! Click here to learn more about this growing organization.

Did a tip or strategy from this podcast change the game for you? Buy Me a Coffee to say thanks!

Schedule a Free Discovery Call with Jason Cercone

MUSIC CREDITS:

Podcasting Strategy Simplified: Burn The Track (Inspiring Rock Trailer) by Alex Grohl on pixabay.com

Let's Blow This Up: Aggressive Metal Trailer (Dragon Heart) by Alex Grohl on pixabay.com

Thank you for listening and becoming an official member of The Bomb Squad!

Success in podcasting isn’t about following every piece of advice you find online — it’s about finding what works for you. And in this episode of Let's Blow This Up, I'm taking a shot at some of the unsolicited advice that throws too many aspiring podcasters off their game before they ever have a chance to experience a major breakthrough.

Unfortunately, many aspiring podcasters give up because they try to follow a “one-size-fits-all” approach that doesn’t align with their time, goals, or creative energy. Instead, it's time to explore why successful podcasters build shows on their own terms and why you need to do the same.

If you want to succeed at podcasting and, ultimately, play the long game, you need to stay engaged and excited about the process. Tune in to discover how to make your podcast last by embracing your unique workflow and ignoring the noise from the so-called "gurus" and "experts."

Key Takeaways:

• There is no single “right” way to become a successful podcaster. Every approach has its pros and cons
• Following unsolicited advice that doesn’t fit your workflow or time constraints will lead to burnout and resentment for your show
• Making your podcast last is all about staying engaged and motivated while embracing the small victories that happen along the way
• What successful podcasters do to grow without burning out
• The pros and cons of different podcasting approaches—and how to choose yours
• How to succeed at podcasting by balancing strategy with personal creativity

Season 3 of Let's Blow This Up is proudly sponsored by The Podcast Professionals Association! Click here to learn more about this growing organization.

Did a tip or strategy from this podcast change the game for you? Buy Me a Coffee to say thanks!

Schedule a Free Discovery Call with Jason Cercone

MUSIC CREDITS:

Podcasting Strategy Simplified: Burn The Track (Inspiring Rock Trailer) by Alex Grohl on pixabay.com

Let's Blow This Up: Aggressive Metal Trailer (Dragon Heart) by Alex Grohl on pixabay.com

Thank you for listening and becoming an official member of The Bomb Squad!

It's the second installment in the Season 3 Co-Host Collective Series and I'm joined, once again, by Megan Shields of Chimehouse Media to explore the often-overlooked strategy of paid Facebook and Instagram ads for podcasters looking to grow their shows. Despite the powerful potential of advertising on these platforms, many podcasters shy away from using paid campaigns to reach new listeners and expand their audience due to the limited amount of other people capitalizing on these approaches.

Megan breaks down her TriFecta Ad Strategy, a comprehensive approach designed to not only increase podcast listeners, but also boost social media engagement and grow email lists. By following these actionable strategies, podcasters can maximize the impact of their advertising efforts and build a more engaged, loyal community.

This episode also covers the common misconceptions and hesitations that keep podcasters from investing in paid ads, and how shifting that mindset can lead to significant growth. Whether you're looking to amplify your reach, deepen engagement, or build your email list, this episode offers valuable insights for podcasters ready to take their show to the next level.

Key Takeaways:

• Paid Facebook and Instagram ads can significantly boost podcast growth, but are underutilized by podcasters.
• Megan Shields’ TriFecta Ad Strategy focuses on increasing listeners, engagement, and email list growth.
• A well-executed ad campaign can help podcasters reach new audiences beyond their current network.
• Social media engagement and email list building are essential components of a successful podcasting strategy.
• Shifting your mindset toward using paid ads can be the key to unlocking new growth opportunities for your podcast.
• Megan shares practical steps for implementing paid ads effectively to increase podcast visibility.
• Understanding how to track and optimize ad campaigns is crucial for maximizing ROI.

Connect with Megan:
Instagram | Website

Season 3 of Let's Blow This Up is proudly sponsored by The Podcast Professionals Association! Click here to learn more about this growing organization.

Did a tip or strategy from this podcast change the game for you? Buy Me a Coffee to say thanks!

Schedule a Free Discovery Call with Jason Cercone

MUSIC CREDITS:

Podcasting Strategy Simplified: Burn The Track (Inspiring Rock Trailer) by Alex Grohl on pixabay.com

Let's Blow This Up: Aggressive Metal Trailer (Dragon Heart) by Alex Grohl on pixabay.com

Thank you for listening and becoming an official member of The Bomb Squad!