Podcasting Strategy Simplified | The Business Owner's Guide to Podcast Success

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.

📆 Schedule a Free Strategy Kickstart Call with Jason Cercone

📲 Or Contact Me Directly: [email protected] | 412.965.8428

👉 Got a question you'd like featured on Monday's 5-Minute Questions Series? Send it to me via SpeakPipe

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


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.

📆 Schedule a Free Strategy Kickstart Call with Jason Cercone

📲 Or Contact Me Directly: [email protected] | 412.965.8428

👉 Got a question you'd like featured on Monday's 5-Minute Questions Series? Send it to me via SpeakPipe

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


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.

📆 Schedule a Free Strategy Kickstart Call with Jason Cercone

📲 Or Contact Me Directly: [email protected] | 412.965.8428

👉 Got a question you'd like featured on Monday's 5-Minute Questions Series? Send it to me via SpeakPipe

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


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.

📆 Schedule a Free Strategy Kickstart Call with Jason Cercone

📲 Or Contact Me Directly: [email protected] | 412.965.8428

👉 Got a question you'd like featured on Monday's 5-Minute Questions Series? Send it to me via SpeakPipe

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


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!

Have you ever stopped to think about what a person thinks about before they press play on your podcast? 

Or, to take it a layer deeper: have you ever stopped to think what YOU think about about before pressing play on a podcast (or consuming any piece of content, for that matter)?

It's time to take a deep dive into the psychology that captivates a potential podcast listener from the very first time they discover your podcast and how they get invested in your show over time. 

It's the Season 3 Livestream Series Premiere of Let's Blow This Up and I'm joined by the incomparable Doug Downs, host of Stories & Strategies, the most listened-to podcast in the Public Relations space. 

Throughout this episode, Doug and I discuss:

• What gets a listener bought in and excited to consume your content
• The Nudge Theory (and how it relates to podcasting)
• The human side of podcast consumption and how our content impacts listeners
• How to get listeners engaged in your content
• Podcast episode structure and flow
• Light, medium, and heavy podcast listener personas and how they consume content

Connect with Doug:
YouTube | Instagram | Website

Click here to check out Doug and I's conversation about the rise and fall of Haliey Welch on his podcast, Stories & Strategies

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.

📆 Schedule a Free Strategy Kickstart Call with Jason Cercone

📲 Or Contact Me Directly: [email protected] | 412.965.8428

👉 Got a question you'd like featured on Monday's 5-Minute Questions Series? Send it to me via SpeakPipe

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


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 first installment in the Let's Blow This Up Season 3 Solo Series with yours truly, Jason Cercone. Today, I'm kicking off this series by breaking down that crucial first step you need to take when starting a podcast for your business. 

It's not just about fancy equipment or gorgeous backgrounds or renting state-of-the-art studio space. It's about attacking podcasting with a realistic mindset...and this one item that so many new podcasters tend to ignore. 

If you do this one thing right, your podcasting efforts will have a solid foundation on which to grow for years to come. Not only that, you'll create a content machine that checks many boxes in your overall marketing and branding strategy.

Smash that play button...and let's blow this up!

Key Takeaways:

• Define a clear podcast strategy before starting a business podcast.
• Assess your available time and resources to ensure sustainability.
• Choose a production format that aligns with your business goals and audience.
• Align your podcast’s content with your brand’s voice and message.
• Understand the importance of mindset and consistency in podcasting.
• Prepare yourself for the long-term commitment a podcast requires.

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.

📆 Schedule a Free Strategy Kickstart Call with Jason Cercone

📲 Or Contact Me Directly: [email protected] | 412.965.8428

👉 Got a question you'd like featured on Monday's 5-Minute Questions Series? Send it to me via SpeakPipe

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


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!

Welcome to Season 3 of Let's Blow This Up! We are kicking off this brand-new season with the first installment of in our Co-Host Collective Series.

In this episode, Jason Cercone is joined by Marc Ronick of iRonick Media and Simona Costantini of Volt Productions for a deep dive into the proper mindset every podcaster needs to experience growth and longevity in this space. Without question, it’s the mental approach that sets the foundation for long-term success in podcasting.

We'll also explore why many new podcasters are hesitant to embrace the word "authenticity" and why it’s essential to create genuine content rather than trying to put on a performance. Refining your craft consistently and approaching podcasting with authenticity, rather than performance, allows for more growth, less pressure, an a genuine product that will keep listeners coming back for more.

The three of us all agree there's a common trap new podcasters fall into: wanting to bypass mindset and jump straight to fame and fortune. By focusing on the right mindset first, podcasters can build lasting connections, develop their craft to stand out in a crowded market, and create opportunities to monetize their content because it has a substantial audience consuming it.

Key Takeaways:

• The right mindset is essential before leveraging podcasting for your brand.
• Authenticity is a vital element in podcasting that many are afraid to embrace.
• Podcasting should be approached as a craft, not just a performance.
• Continuous practice helps you improve and move beyond feeling like you're “playing a role.”
• Many new podcasters rush into seeking fame and riches, ignoring the mindset work and establishing "The Why" that precedes success.
• Understanding the power of authenticity will help you create genuine, meaningful connections with your audience.
• Success in podcasting is built over time with consistency and the right mental approach.

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.

📆 Schedule a Free Strategy Kickstart Call with Jason Cercone

📲 Or Contact Me Directly: [email protected] | 412.965.8428

👉 Got a question you'd like featured on Monday's 5-Minute Questions Series? Send it to me via SpeakPipe

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


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 officially been 10 years since I heated up a microphone and recorded my very first podcast episode!

Since then, it's been an adventurous journey...filled with all the ups and downs you've probably heard about in this arena...

It's also been a decade worth of learning from failures, capitalizing on successes, and doing my best to stay sharp in a world that's constantly evolving.

It was only moments after my first episode was recorded back in 2015 that I knew podcasting was going to be my thing. And I made it a point to lean into it as hard as I possibly could.

Even after all this time, there isn't a day that goes by where I don't learn something new.

Today, I'm going to take a moment to reflect on my time in the wild world of podcasting...and I invite you to press play and join me. 

In this bonus episode of Let's Blow This Up, I'm sharing stories, insights, and important things I've learned along the way over the last 10 years. From how I broke into podcasting out of spite to the time I discovered what listener experience truly meant to the self-evolution that led to the launch of Bombtrack Media and this very podcast and all stops in between, I'm diving into all of it (or as much of it as I can in 30 minutes).

Pour your favorite beverage and join me as I look back on a decade in podcasting! 

📆 Schedule a Free Strategy Kickstart Call with Jason Cercone

📲 Or Contact Me Directly: [email protected] | 412.965.8428

👉 Got a question you'd like featured on Monday's 5-Minute Questions Series? Send it to me via SpeakPipe

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


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!

If you've launched a podcast, you know full well there are several moving parts. And if any of those parts fail to work correctly, the growth and overall success of your podcast will suffer.

If you haven't launched your own podcast yet, get comfortable and smash that play button...because you're gonna want to hear this.

Building a solid foundation on which to build your podcast over time is something I take very seriously at Bombtrack Media. By addressing all the critical and pertinent aspects of bringing your podcast to life - then growing it consistently over time - at the very beginning, you ensure you're set up to experience significant gains with your show.

Welcome to Making a Podcast With Bombtrack Media, a new bonus series I'm producing here on Let's Blow This Up with clients I've worked with. In these episodes, you'll learn what it was like for these brands and personalities to leverage the podcast medium and build something that elevates the visibility of their brand and amplifies their message to a larger audience...with the help of yours truly.

In this episode, I share the mic with Cassie Brkich, the Founder of Brkich Design Group, as she shares the story behind her first podcasting experience. As you'll hear, this was not something Cassie had on her bingo card and, quite frankly, the thought of doing her own show (despite the natural abilities I saw in her when she joined me during Season 1 of Let's Blow This Up) scared the hell out of her.

In this candid conversation, Cassie and I discuss:

• How she felt when I presented the idea of launching her own podcast
• The growth she's gained by moving forward and putting herself out there
• Items we covered in the overall creation process
• Feedback her show has received in its early weeks of publication
• What it was like to work with Bombtrack Media on this project
• How we both helped each other develop new approaches in our business thanks to this podcast

Swing to the sweet sounds of Design and Thrive: brkichdesign.com/podcast
Check out the studio where we recorded Season 1: whittedmedia.com

📆 Schedule a Free Strategy Kickstart Call with Jason Cercone

📲 Or Contact Me Directly: [email protected] | 412.965.8428

👉 Got a question you'd like featured on Monday's 5-Minute Questions Series? Send it to me via SpeakPipe

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


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!

Have you ever given your podcast a top-to-bottom inspection and discover some changes are in order?

Of course you have, we've all been there. And if you're just getting started, believe me...that day will come.

I'm currently in this position as we wind down Season 2 and, to discuss winning strategies for bringing big changes to your show, I'm welcoming my friend Jay Franze back to Let's Blow This Up for the Season 2 finale!

Jay and I will be sharing some real-life stories of questions we asked ourselves when changing things up with our shows and will provide our insights on things that worked...and things that didn't.

We also discuss:

• Best practices for creating immediate engagement with your guests (and listeners, too)
• How to properly utilize Calls to Action in show notes
• Implementing new formats and segments in your show
• The three different episode formats you'll hear when Season 3 of Let's Blow This Up kicks off next year

Thank you for making this a memorable season, Bomb Squad! I'll see you again in February 2025!

Connect with Jay Franze: www.jayfranze.com

📆 Schedule a Free Strategy Kickstart Call with Jason Cercone

📲 Or Contact Me Directly: [email protected] | 412.965.8428

👉 Got a question you'd like featured on Monday's 5-Minute Questions Series? Send it to me via SpeakPipe

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


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!