The Circle Sessions

In this episode of The Circle Sessions, host Brett Johnson is joined by Yasmine Robles from Robles Designs, a member of The Circle Of Experts.

As they discuss the critical aspects of website design, Yasmine shares her insights on the challenges small businesses face in keeping up with design trends, the importance of incorporating design elements that are both trendy and timeless, and practical tips for navigating design trends while ensuring a timeless website look.

She also provides valuable insights on implementing conversion-focused designs effectively and shares upcoming trends in website design.

Top Takeaways

1. Businesses need to strike a balance between modern and timeless website design to stand out and endure in the fast-evolving web design landscape.

2. When considering design trends, the amount of website traffic plays into the decision-making process. Larger sites with more traffic can conduct audits and AB tests to adapt to trends, while smaller sites may rely more on the client's needs and preferences.

3. Blindly chasing design trends without considering long-term effects can risk businesses losing their brand identity. It's crucial to strategically make design changes that align with the company's core values.

4. To incorporate both trendy and timeless design elements, businesses need to identify their brand's core values and weave them into the design. Modernizing aspects like color schemes, typography, and user experience while maintaining timeless essence can be achieved through strategic design choices.

5. Businesses should invest time in understanding their brand identity, customer expectations, and goals before incorporating design trends to ensure that the visual elements align with the brand essence.

6. For effective conversion-focused designs, it's important to know the purpose of the changes and conduct tests to understand what works best for conversions. Using tools like AB testing, surveys, and customer analysis can inform design decisions that drive conversions.

7. Trends in conversion-focused design involve a focus on typography, utilization of white space, larger text, and strategic placement of elements to guide user attention and enhance accessibility.

8. To ensure a timeless and conversion-focused website look, businesses should regularly update and refresh design elements while maintaining a clear understanding of their audience and brand identity.

9. Website audits are crucial for both new and existing websites to gain insights on SEO, traffic, social media interactions, and backlinks. The audit results can inform strategic content planning and provide a roadmap for website improvements.

10. Businesses and podcasters can engage with website designers and consultants to conduct audits, seek strategic design advice, and align their websites with their branding and marketing goals to achieve better results.

Memorable Moments

00:00 Larger sites need trend-based traffic analysis. Smaller clients' needs differ based on audience.

05:32 Integrating brand values into the design for success.

08:08 Analyzed business goals, and updated logo with tweaks.

13:20 Understand the goal, test, gather feedback, and then implement.

15:27 Focus on timeless fonts for website success.

19:24 Small business owners should assess marketing and design.

21:00 Seeking website audit for potential changes.

Yasmine works alongside clients to design a website that's driven by strategy, looks amazing, and that you can actually use to grow your podcast, and your business.

Her website.

Her Instagram.

Click here for the checklist!

Each week, one of The Circle of Experts talks about critical aspects of growing your podcast. We focus on marketing, social media, monetization, website design, and implementation of all of these to help you make the best podcast possible.

Have a question or an idea for one of our episodes? Send us an email at [email protected].

The Circle of Experts are:

Yasmine Robles from Rebel Marketing

Tonnisha English-Amamoo of TJE Communications

Don The Idea Guy

Brett Johnson, My Podcast Guy®, from Circle 270 Media® Podcast Consultants

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/vince-mcgill/lemon-slice

License code: 2NRNUIV5VG7FU3K5

Copyright 2025 Brett Johnson, My Podcast Guy™

In the March 2024 episode of "The Circle Sessions" titled "Ripped From The Podcast Headlines," host Brett Johnson and special guest Don The Idea Guy discuss a range of trending topics in the podcast industry, focusing on feedback mechanisms, SEO tactics, AI in podcast promotion, and novel tools for podcast creation and marketing.

Top Takeaways

**AI in Podcast Promotion**: Spotify’s innovative use of AI for behavioral targeting represents a new frontier in podcast marketing, helping podcasters reach more tailored audiences and promote their back catalogs more effectively.

**Evolving Ad Insertion Techniques**: AI is changing the podcast advertising landscape by enabling smarter, contextually relevant ad placements. Still, there's a concern over maintaining the balance between content quality and ad revenues.

**Importance of Planning Content for Ads**: The sophistication of AI tools for ad placement makes it increasingly important for podcasters to mindfully plan their content to seamlessly incorporate advertisements without detracting from listener experience.

**Apple and AI Promotion Tools**: The episode notes that while Spotify has spearheaded the use of AI for podcast promotion, Apple is seen as lagging but has plans to support Google's Gemini AI tool, highlighting the trend towards AI adoption in podcasting platforms.

**Podcasting Tools and AI Integration**: With platforms like Launchcasts providing AI-generated scripts, voice options, and artwork, podcast creation is becoming more accessible. However, the quality and creativity of content generated through AI might still require human oversight and finesse.

**The Roast Format for Feedback**: Brett Johnson and Don The Idea Guy discussed the potential for entertaining and insightful podcast reviews through a "roast" format. This could create an engaging way for podcasters to learn from each other’s successes and mistakes. Send us an email with your request to have your podcast, podcast website, or podcast social media analyzed.

[email protected]

Key Moments

00:00 Spotify uses AI for targeted podcast promotion.

05:51 Podcasters prefer Spotify over Apple for tools.

08:12 Audacy introduces AI tool for podcast advertising.

09:42 AI transcript contextual; avoiding accidental ad placement.

15:53 AI platform launches podcasts with script and art.

19:23 Ausha study unlocks questionable tactics for Apple Podcasts.

20:10 SEO study reveals outdated penalized practices. Avoid.

26:08 Feedback sessions on various industry content.

27:53 Podcast roast videos promote feedback and discussion.

30:22 Comparing podcast episodes and promotional strategies.

Possessing creative powers beyond those of mere mortals, DON THE IDEA GUY rescues those in need of innovative ideas through his brainstorming sessions, articles, and websites.

DTIG (DEE-tigg) has been featured in Small Business News, interviewed by the New York Times, quoted in Fast Company magazine, and served as the first president of the International Idea Trade Association.

Don is a proud member of the BzzAgent community, and is featured in BzzAgent.com founder Dave Balter’s book “Grapevine: The New Art of Word-of-Mouth Marketing.”

His Innovation Channel on the Duct Tape Marketing Blog has been recognized as a Forbes Favorite.

Don is the author of the book “100-WHATS of CREATIVITY“, one-hundred ‘what if?’ questions to spur your creativity, unmuck your mind, and break through your mental blocks and has written dozens of articles and hundreds of blog postings on the subject of increasing innovation and adding creativity to your personal and professional life.

Each week, one of The Circle of Experts talks about critical aspects of growing your podcast. We focus on marketing, social media, monetization, website design, and implementation of all of these to help you make the best podcast possible.

Have a question or an idea for one of our episodes? Send us an email at [email protected].

The Circle of Experts are:

Yasmine Robles from Rebel Marketing

Tonnisha English-Amamoo of TJE Communications

Don The Idea Guy

Brett Johnson, My Podcast Guy®, from Circle 270 Media® Podcast Consultants

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/vince-mcgill/lemon-slice

License code: 2NRNUIV5VG7FU3K5

Copyright 2025 Brett Johnson, My Podcast Guy™

In this episode of The Circle Sessions, host Brett Johnson discusses the current landscape of political podcasts, focusing on the pros and cons of creating content in this genre.

Brett delves into a recent survey highlighting the popularity of political podcasts among different generations and shares insights on the engagement and sharing of political news and media. He explores the potential challenges of creating and sustaining a political podcast amidst the dynamic nature of election cycles and offers valuable considerations for content creators looking to navigate the ever-changing political landscape.

Whether you're already entrenched in political podcasting or considering entering the space, this episode provides valuable insights into the unique opportunities and potential pitfalls of this genre.

Top Takeaways

1. The popularity of political podcasts during an election year can be significant, with a surge in content creation around election cycles.

2. The analysis identifies NPR News Now as the most favored news and political podcast in the US for this election cycle, with different age groups showing preference for specific political podcasts.

3. Despite the surge in political podcast content, engagement levels may not necessarily match the increase in content creation, with a noticeable decline in interest for some segments of the population.

4. Generational differences exist in how various age groups perceive and engage with political content on social media, with some feeling the need to share their political views and others refraining from doing so due to election-related stress.

5. While there was a significant increase in podcast listenership from 2004 to 2023, the impact of political podcasts and their sustainability beyond the election cycle is a consideration for podcast creators.

6. Political podcast creators may need to explore alternative show formats and consider the potential challenges posed by the lack of campaign ad spending in political podcasts.

7. There are considerations around the sustainability of political content, its ability to stay relevant beyond the election cycle, and the potential need for creators to pivot their content to retain their audience's interest.

8. Creators are encouraged to evaluate how their political content can survive beyond the election cycle and consider seeking guidance from podcast consultants to navigate the changing landscape of political podcasting.

9. The influence of culture and the potential political backlash may affect advertiser caution in associating with political content, prompting creators to consider the intersection of their content with cultural elements.

10. Understanding the long-term game plan for political podcast content, including its ability to adapt and stay relevant beyond the election cycle, is essential for creators venturing into this niche.

Podcastle

Each week, one of The Circle of Experts talks about critical aspects of growing your podcast. We focus on marketing, social media, monetization, website design, and implementation of all of these to help you make the best podcast possible.

Have a question or an idea for one of our episodes? Send us an email at [email protected].

The Circle of Experts are:

Yasmine Robles from Rebel Marketing

Tonnisha English-Amamoo of TJE Communications

Don The Idea Guy

Brett Johnson, My Podcast Guy®, from Circle 270 Media® Podcast Consultants

Copyright 2025 Brett Johnson, My Podcast Guy™

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/vince-mcgill/lemon-slice

License code: 2NRNUIV5VG7FU3K5

Welcome to a new episode of The Circle Sessions with your host Brett Johnson and our special guest Tonnisha English-Amamoo from TJE Communications.

In this episode titled "Social Media Tools Refresh," Brett and Tonnisha dive into the ever-changing landscape of social media tools, discussing how the tools are evolving with the implementation of AI and the new features they offer.

Tonnisha shares her expertise on various tools such as Canva, Grammarly, Airtable, and email marketing platforms, shedding light on their functionalities and benefits.

From discussing scheduling tools to the importance of email marketing, this episode provides valuable insights for small businesses and podcasters to level up their social media game.

Top Takeaways

1. Social media tools are constantly evolving and incorporating AI to improve user experience and content creation.

2. Canva is a beloved tool for creating graphics and has integrated AI features to assist with writing and design selection.

3. Grammarly is a valuable tool for ensuring the accuracy and quality of written content, particularly in catching errors and improving consistency.

4. Tracking time spent on tasks, such as content creation and design, is crucial for efficient work management, and tools like Toggl can help with this.

5. Airtable can be utilized for content calendar planning, collaborating with clients to approve content, and organizing podcast episodes.

6. Implementing a shared calendar with your team is essential for keeping track of important dates and coordinating promotional activity for events and guests.

7. Scheduling tools like Sprout Social, Hootsuite, Buffer, and others help manage and automate social media content, but it's beneficial to consider their partnership with platforms like Meta for optimal engagement.

8. Email marketing remains highly effective for maintaining direct contact with an audience, as it offers a consistent way to connect with individuals, even when social media platforms experience downtime.

9. Leveraging website-built email marketing capabilities for selling products, merch, or exclusive content can enable seamless communication and engagement with your audience.

10. Engaging with tools and platforms for professional development, such as attending conferences or workshops, is crucial for enhancing skills and staying informed about industry trends and best practices.

Memorable Moments

00:00 Grammarly improves writing with helpful suggestions.

05:53 When should you seek professional design help?

07:29 "Dissect and reassemble Canva designs, saving time."

13:23 Airtable simplifies content planning, earns rewards.

15:49 Grandparents don't understand but technology works well.

17:30 Some social media scheduling tools may impact engagement.

21:24 Mailchimp, Constant Contact, Klaviyo, Omnisend, Shopify, Squarespace offer email marketing.

26:05 Emails: direct connection, bypasses social media congestion.

Subscribe to Tonnisha's Tip of The Month

TJE Communication’s mission is to empower and educate small women-owned businesses and equip them with digital solutions to level the playing field.

IG - @tjecomm

TW - @tjecomm

LI - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonnishaenglish/

FB - https://www.facebook.com/tjecomm

Each week, one of The Circle of Experts talks about critical aspects of growing your podcast. We focus on marketing, social media, monetization, website design, and implementation of all of these to help you make the best podcast possible.

Have a question or an idea for one of our episodes? Send us an email at [email protected].

The Circle of Experts are:

Yasmine Robles from Rebel Marketing

Tonnisha English-Amamoo of TJE Communications

Don The Idea Guy

Brett Johnson, My Podcast Guy®, from Circle 270 Media® Podcast Consultants

Copyright 2025 Brett Johnson, My Podcast Guy™

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/vince-mcgill/lemon-slice

License code: 2NRNUIV5VG7FU3K5

In this episode of The Circle Sessions, our host Brett Johnson sits down with Yasmine Robles, a member of The Circle Of Experts from Robles Designs.

Yasmine brings her expertise in website strategy and marketing to discuss the crucial role of analytics in optimizing websites and marketing strategies for small businesses and podcasters.

They explore the benefits of using analytics to track website performance, choosing the right tools, interpreting data strategically, and continuously improving digital presence.

Yasmine shares practical tips and takeaways for leveraging analytics to drive data-driven decision-making, and how it can save time and money in the long run.

Top Takeaways

1. Analytics provide invaluable insights into website performance and marketing efforts, enabling data-driven decision-making.

2. Small business owners and podcasters should align analytics tools with their specific goals and marketing channels, such as using Google Analytics and social media platform insights.

3. Bing should not be overlooked for analytics, especially if a significant portion of website traffic comes from different platforms or operating systems.

4. Interpreting data should start with identifying key performance indicators (KPIs) and goals that can be measured, and then looking for trends, anomalies, and patterns.

5. A/B testing involves testing variations, such as different landing pages or email subject lines, to see which performs better in terms of user responses and conversions.

6. Regularly reviewing analytics and setting benchmarks, experimenting with changes, and continuously iterating based on insights obtained are key strategies for continuous optimization of online presence.

7. Don't be afraid to regularly check and interpret the numbers, as analytics can be a powerful tool for making strategic decisions in marketing, podcast promotion, and online business.

8. Embracing analytics and setting clear goals while choosing the right tools can help small business owners and podcasters interpret data strategically and consistently over time.

9. Even if time is limited, tracking and recording analytics data is essential for future reference and historical analysis, especially as the podcast and business grow.

10. Yasmine Robles of Robles Designs can provide expertise in running A/B tests, explaining jargon, offering freebies, and providing overall design and marketing support for podcasters and small business owners.

Memorable Moments

00:00 Align tools with goals for effective marketing.

04:09 Explore different platforms, track stats, and know goals.

09:07 AB testing involves comparing and testing items.

11:03 Experiment with A/B testing in email marketing.

Yasmine works alongside clients to design a website that's driven by strategy, looks amazing, and that you can actually use to grow your podcast, and your business.

Her website.

Her Instagram.

Click here for the checklist!

Each week, one of The Circle of Experts talks about critical aspects of growing your podcast. We focus on marketing, social media, monetization, website design, and implementation of all of these to help you make the best podcast possible.

Have a question or an idea for one of our episodes? Send us an email at [email protected].

The Circle of Experts are:

Yasmine Robles from Rebel Marketing

Tonnisha English-Amamoo of TJE Communications

Don The Idea Guy

Brett Johnson, My Podcast Guy®, from Circle 270 Media® Podcast Consultants

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/vince-mcgill/lemon-slice

License code: 2NRNUIV5VG7FU3K5

Copyright 2025 Brett Johnson, My Podcast Guy™

Welcome back to The Circle Sessions! In today's episode, we're taking a deep dive into the fascinating world of sleep chronotypes and how they affect our daily lives.

Host Brett Johnson breaks down the four animal sleep chronotypes - lion, bear, wolf, and dolphin - and discusses how understanding your own chronotype can supercharge your productivity and podcasting game. So, whether you're an early riser like a lion, a night owl like a wolf, or somewhere in between, figuring out your peak performance times is key to creating top-notch podcast content.

Let's explore the link between sleep chronotypes and podcasting success and discover how to harness your body's natural rhythms for an epic podcasting experience.

Top Takeaways

1 - Understanding your sleep chronotype can help you optimize your work day and rest periods for maximum productivity, which can in turn improve the quality of your podcast content.

2 - Lions tend to wake up early, feel most energetic before noon, and wind down in early evening.

3 - Bears follow the sun, being most productive in the middle of the day and retiring early in the evening.

4 - Wolves wake up later in the day, are most productive in the afternoon, and go to bed late.

5 - Dolphins wake up at 6 in the morning, are most productive in the late afternoon, and go to bed around 11 o'clock.

6 - Embracing your natural productivity patterns can lead to feeling better about the content you're creating and being respectful of what your body can give you while podcasting.

Dr. Michael Breus - Clinical Psychologist, Sleep Medicine Expert

Each week, one of The Circle of Experts talks about critical aspects of growing your podcast. We focus on marketing, social media, monetization, website design, and implementation of all of these to help you make the best podcast possible.

Have a question or an idea for one of our episodes? Send us an email at [email protected].

The Circle of Experts are:

Yasmine Robles from Rebel Marketing

Tonnisha English-Amamoo of TJE Communications

Don The Idea Guy

Brett Johnson, My Podcast Guy®, from Circle 270 Media® Podcast Consultants

Copyright 2025 Brett Johnson, My Podcast Guy™

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/vince-mcgill/lemon-slice

License code: 2NRNUIV5VG7FU3K5

Get ready to level up your social media game with our latest chat – "Social Media Best Practices" – where Brett Johnson and Tonnisha English Amamoo, are talking about doing social media the right way.

First up, Brett’s eyeballing the whole AI scene with a pinch of salt, especially when it’s churning out blog posts trying to sound like us. On the flip side, Tonnisha’s all about keeping things real, even when robots are penning your captions.

We all know juggling Instagram stories, Facebook posts, and tweeting can drive you up the wall. Tonnisha's pro-tip? Pick your social media home wisely, folks – no need to win popularity contests on every app.

Remember Vine's crash and burn? Brett and Tonnisha remind us not to put all our digital eggs in one basket.

When the world's buzzing with news, post with purpose, or maybe get a second opinion before you click 'Share'.

Rebranding? Converting those likes into subscribers? Tonnisha is handing out advice on why it's crucial to get peeps over to platforms you actually own.

By the end of the episode, you’ll be equipped to not only make noise on social media but to do so without losing track of why you started in the first place.

Top Takeaways

1. **AI Integration Must Be Authentic**: While AI can replicate a business owner's voice to generate content, Brett and Tonnisha emphasize the necessity of adding a personal touch to maintain authenticity.

2. **Human Proofreading is Essential**: Regardless of AI-assisted content creation, the hosts stress the importance of reviewing and ensuring that all published content aligns with the brand’s voice and the podcast’s ethos.

3. **SMART Social Media Strategy**: When leveraging social media, Tonnisha advises setting Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound (SMART) goals to avoid becoming overwhelmed and to increase effectiveness.

4. **Platform Focus Over Quantity**: Rather than trying to be present everywhere, choose a platform that matches the brand's audience and concentrate efforts there for maximum impact.

5. **Be Mindful of Current Events**: Tonnisha and Brett highlight the need to post content that is sensitive to major issues and to avoid being perceived as insensitive or irrelevant.

6. **Consult a Specialist**: Before sharing content, Brett suggests seeking the perspective of social media specialists or others to ensure it fits the brand and current social context.

7. **Own Your Audience**: The hosts encourage converting followers to subscribers on owned platforms like websites and email lists to avoid being solely dependent on social media platforms.

8. **Content Optimization for Platforms**: It’s crucial to create and tailor content specifically for the platform it’s meant for, as each platform has its own rules and audience preferences.

9. **Authenticity in Political/Social Stances**: When taking a stance on political/social issues, authenticity is key. Inauthenticity can cause backlash and may necessitate public apologies.

10. **Conservation of Focus and Energy**: Tonnisha and Brett warn against the burnout that comes from feeling obligated to comment on every event. Prioritize staying true to one's core beliefs and strategic goals.

Memorable Moments

00:00 Automate social media but still engage personally.

04:45 Use social media in a balanced way.

07:56 AI systems help align content with the brand.

12:19 Automation and S.M.A.R.T. goals for social media.

14:06 Experiment with platforms, but diversify cautiously.

17:04 Content emphasizes attracting an audience through engaging content.

21:56 Meta's integration benefits content creators across platforms.

25:06 Small business owners should be mindful of authenticity.

29:33 Choose focus wisely, and don't burn out.

Subscribe to Tonnisha's Tip of The Month

TJE Communication’s mission is to empower and educate small women-owned businesses and equip them with digital solutions to level the playing field.

IG - @tjecomm

TW - @tjecomm

LI - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonnishaenglish/

FB - https://www.facebook.com/tjecomm

Each week, one of The Circle of Experts talks about critical aspects of growing your podcast. We focus on marketing, social media, monetization, website design, and implementation of all of these to help you make the best podcast possible.

Have a question or an idea for one of our episodes? Send us an email at [email protected].

The Circle of Experts are:

Yasmine Robles from Rebel Marketing

Tonnisha English-Amamoo of TJE Communications

Don The Idea Guy

Brett Johnson, My Podcast Guy®, from Circle 270 Media® Podcast Consultants

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/vince-mcgill/lemon-slice

License code: 2NRNUIV5VG7FU3K5

Copyright 2025 Brett Johnson, My Podcast Guy™

The Circle Sessions

53 From Pixels To Profits

In this episode of The Circle Sessions, Brett Johnson and web design expert Yasmine Robles from Robles Designs dive deep into the world of conversion-focused web design and how it can boost profitability for businesses and podcasts.

Yasmine knows her stuff when it comes to creating websites that are not just visually stunning, but also strategically designed to convert visitors into loyal customers. Their conversation is full of practical advice and real-life examples, making it a valuable listen for anyone looking to level up their online presence and monetization game.

They kick things off by discussing the importance of conversion-focused design and how it's all about making moolah from your website. Yasmine sheds light on the nitty-gritty of strategic planning, user experience optimization, and the art of driving desired actions – all with the ultimate goal of turning visitors into happy customers. It's not just about creating a pretty website; it's about crafting an online experience that seamlessly guides people towards making a purchase or taking the desired action.

They dig into the core principles of conversion-focused design, focusing on clarity, simplification, and relevance. They stress the need for a clear and user-friendly layout, especially optimized for mobile because, let's face it, we're all glued to our phones these days. Yasmine draws parallels between these design principles and podcast strategy, emphasizing the importance of keeping content clear, simple, and relevant – whether you're designing a website or planning your next killer podcast episode.

Things get practical when they walk through a scenario of a podcaster wanting to sell merch like coffee mugs. Yasmine's advice is spot on – align your podcast content with your website, and leverage show notes and transcripts to promote your merch seamlessly. Add some upsell opportunities and user-generated content, and boom, you've got a holistic approach to boosting those merchandise sales.

Smartphone vs. desktop user behavior takes center stage, and Yasmine stresses the need for simplicity and ease of navigation, especially on mobile. No one likes a complicated purchasing process, right? So, keeping it a smooth 1-2-3 step journey is key to driving those sales.

The episode wraps up with a reminder about the power of post-purchase engagement and leveraging user-generated content for some good old social proof. Yasmine's insights on nurturing customer relationships post-purchase and building a community-driven approach are pure gold. Because let's be real – creating a hyper-engaged community around your brand or podcast is like hitting the jackpot for sustained profitability and growth.

Top 10 Takeaways

1. Conversion-focused web design is essential to maximize profits from a website, and this approach involves creating a clear path for users, simplifying navigation, and presenting relevant content to drive desired actions.

2. Strategic website layouts guide users through a seamless journey, focusing their attention on key elements that drive conversions, such as call-to-action buttons and strategically placed information.

3. To sell merchandise on a website, such as coffee mugs with a podcast logo, a strategic approach involves incorporating links in show notes or blog posts, providing a clear path to purchase, and potentially upselling related products.

4. Mobile optimization is crucial for e-commerce websites, and while the user journey should be similar for desktop and mobile, the content presentation should be simplified and tailored to the user's viewing experience on different devices.

5. The post-purchase journey should include a thank-you page and transactional and marketing emails to engage customers further and encourage repeat purchases or additional actions.

6. User-generated content, such as images of customers using purchased products, can be utilized on websites to build a sense of community and increase customer engagement.

7. Podcasters can monetize their offerings through various strategies, including selling merchandise, creating a paid community, utilizing "buy me a coffee" options, and leveraging user-generated content for promotion.

8. Websites can feature a "meet our community" section or showcase user-generated content from social media to foster community engagement and increase the cool factor associated with the brand.

9. Engaging with customers post-sale and maintaining a sense of community can contribute to repeat purchases and continued support of the brand, beyond the initial transaction.

10. Podcasters and businesses can seek professional support for website audits, SEO optimization, and content creation to ensure their online presence is effectively utilized to drive profits and engage their audience.

Memorable Moments

00:00 Core principles: clarity, simplification, relevance, mobile optimization.

05:35 Strategic podcast promotion for coffee shop merch.

08:44 Simplify e-commerce design for better mobile experience.

12:43 Podcasters create community and monetize through paid content.

15:11 Taking screenshots is okay, ask for permission.

Yasmine works alongside clients to design a website that's driven by strategy, looks amazing, and that you can actually use to grow your podcast, and your business.

Her website.

Her Instagram.

Click here for the checklist!

Each week, one of The Circle of Experts talks about critical aspects of growing your podcast. We focus on marketing, social media, monetization, website design, and implementation of all of these to help you make the best podcast possible.

Have a question or an idea for one of our episodes? Send us an email at [email protected].

The Circle of Experts are:

Yasmine Robles from Rebel Marketing

Tonnisha English-Amamoo of TJE Communications

Don The Idea Guy

Brett Johnson, My Podcast Guy®, from Circle 270 Media® Podcast Consultants

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/abbynoise/face-game

License code: IUDJXGXP8JAXJVJS

Copyright 2025 Brett Johnson, My Podcast Guy™

Welcome to The Circle Sessions, where we dive into the latest news and trends in the world of media, advertising, and content creation. In this episode, host Brett Johnson is joined by the ever-creative Don The Idea Guy as they explore the hot topics ripped from the headlines.

The world’s #1 podcast, The Joe Rogan Experience has renewed with Spotify. The show will no longer be exclusive: and will ‘soon’ be made available on additional platforms like Apple, Amazon and YouTube. Terms of the deal weren’t given; the Wall Street Journal suggests the deal is worth as much as $250mn; however, Spotify told The Guardian that figure was incorrect.

SiriusXM Inks New Multi-Year Agreement with SmartLess Media, Including Powerhouse Flagship Podcast, “SmartLess” SiriusXM’s roster, which includes Crime Junkie, Pod Save America, and Conan O’Brien Needs A Friend. SiriusXM also cut a deal with James Corden in November.

Use Passionfroot to create an online media kit and find sponsors. Here is the example we talk about in the podcast.

In a split 3-2 vote, the Federal Communications Commission has voted to move forward with a proposal that would bestow benefits on broadcasters that invest in locally-originated programming. If adopted, it would give processing priority to radio and TV stations that certify they provide locally originated programming when they file license renewal applications or transfer a license. Don and Brett disagree on the opportunities for podcasters if this unfolds for stations needing more locally produced content.

Brett has more to say about this in this episode of The Circle Sessions.

Key Takeaways

1. There is potential for podcasters to leverage opportunities in traditional radio stations and platforms like SiriusXM for additional exposure and audience growth.

2. The strategy of podcast advertising warrants careful consideration, ensuring that ad breaks do not overwhelm the listener experience.

3. Understanding listener behavior, preferences, and consumption patterns can help in strategizing podcast release schedules and content.

4. The evolution of platforms like SiriusXM from satellite to app-based services could impact the landscape of podcast exclusivity and subscriber counts.

5. The competitive landscape of podcast acquisitions by major platforms like Spotify and SiriusXM signals a shift towards exclusive content and original programming.

6. Platforms like Passionfroot.me offer creators a visual portfolio and sponsorship pitching platform, potentially presenting a valuable revenue generation opportunity.

In this engaging and informative episode, listeners are treated to a wealth of knowledge and lighthearted banter, making "Ripped From The Headlines" a must-listen for anyone interested in the podcasting industry and the world of content creation.

Memorable Moments

04:04 Spotify deal opens up to other platforms.

09:02 Discovering interconnected relationships in Hollywood's behind-the-scenes.

11:33 Discussion of podcast listening habits, particularly bingeing.

13:54 SiriusXM app evolving for future satellite usage.

16:55 Netflix and Amazon create original content studios.

19:09 Passionfroot.me - Community for creators and brands, media kit.

25:08 FCC proposes benefits for locally originated programming.

34:12 Use your podcast to gain traditional media coverage.

39:28 Finding common solutions to audience growth challenges.

Possessing creative powers beyond those of mere mortals, DON THE IDEA GUY rescues those in need of innovative ideas through his brainstorming sessions, articles, and websites.

DTIG (DEE-tigg) has been featured in Small Business News, interviewed by the New York Times, quoted in Fast Company magazine, and served as the first president of the International Idea Trade Association.

Don is a proud member of the BzzAgent community, and is featured in BzzAgent.com founder Dave Balter’s book “Grapevine: The New Art of Word-of-Mouth Marketing.”

His Innovation Channel on the Duct Tape Marketing Blog has been recognized as a Forbes Favorite.

Don is the author of the book “100-WHATS of CREATIVITY“, one-hundred ‘what if?’ questions to spur your creativity, unmuck your mind, and break through your mental blocks and has written dozens of articles and hundreds of blog postings on the subject of increasing innovation and adding creativity to your personal and professional life.

Each week, one of The Circle of Experts talks about critical aspects of growing your podcast. We focus on marketing, social media, monetization, website design, and implementation of all of these to help you make the best podcast possible.

Have a question or an idea for one of our episodes? Send us an email at [email protected].

The Circle of Experts are:

Yasmine Robles from Rebel Marketing

Tonnisha English-Amamoo of TJE Communications

Don The Idea Guy

Brett Johnson, My Podcast Guy®, from Circle 270 Media® Podcast Consultants

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/vince-mcgill/lemon-slice

License code: 2NRNUIV5VG7FU3K5

Copyright 2025 Brett Johnson, My Podcast Guy™

Setting and Achieving S.M.A.R.T. Goals for Your Podcast

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In this episode of The Circle Sessions, host Brett Johnson is joined by Tonnisha English-Amamoo, a digital marketing expert and the founder of TJE Communications. Tonnisha is passionate about helping small businesses level the playing field through digital marketing strategies. The episode focuses on the concept of S.M.A.R.T. goals and how podcasters can apply this framework to set and achieve their podcasting goals effectively.

Understanding S.M.A.R.T. Goals

Tonnisha provides an in-depth understanding of S.M.A.R.T. goals, breaking down each component of the acronym:

1. Specific: Tonnisha emphasizes the importance of setting specific goals, highlighting how specificity aids in tracking progress and making necessary adjustments.

2. Measurable: She elucidates that measurable goals enable podcasters to quantify their progress over time and make informed decisions based on data and analytics.

3. Achievable (or Attainable): Tonnisha advises against setting unattainable goals, underscoring the need to strike a balance between challenge and achievability. She recommends breaking large goals into smaller, more manageable steps to maintain sustainability.

4. Relevant (or Realistic): With a focus on relevance to overall business objectives, Tonnisha stresses the importance of aligning podcasting goals with the larger context of the podcaster's brand and mission.

5. Timely: Lastly, Tonnisha discusses the significance of setting time frames for achieving goals, allowing for strategic planning and periodic check-ins to evaluate progress.

Applying S.M.A.R.T. Goals to Podcasting

Brett and Tonnisha explore the application of S.M.A.R.T. goals specifically within the realm of podcasting. They delve into the relevance of setting time frames for podcast seasons, allowing podcasters to take breaks, reevaluate, and plan new content. Moreover, they address the need for podcasters to consider the sustainability of high-demand content and the potential benefits of evergreen content strategies.

Top Takeaways

1. S.M.A.R.T. goals can be applied at any time of the year, not just at the beginning of the year.

2. When setting S.M.A.R.T. goals for a podcast, specificity is important to track progress and make adjustments.

3. Measurable goals help in monitoring and evaluating progress, such as tracking content posting frequency and follower growth.

4. Achievable/attainable goals should be challenging yet realistic for sustainable progress and growth in a podcast.

5. The relevance of goals to the overall business objectives is crucial to ensure the efforts align with the desired outcomes.

6. The timeliness of goals provides a clear timeframe for achieving them and organizing tasks effectively, which is important for mental well-being and preventing burnout.

7. Utilizing seasons for podcasts can provide a natural break for reflection, evaluation, and planning, allowing for quality over quantity.

8. Pivot is essential as unforeseen circumstances might require a change in plans, and that's okay.

Setting Realistic Business Goals on Social Media — Tonnisha English-Amamoo

Podcasting Best Practices — Brett Johnson

Memorable Moments

00:00 Important to set specific, trackable goals.

03:41 Evaluate, align, and adjust social media strategy.

07:40 Set achievable, sustainable goals for personal growth.

12:27 Align personal goals with business strategy realistically.

14:32 Setting specific and timely goals is important.

18:17 Podcasts, true crime, pop culture, recording weekly.

20:19 Create evergreen content, set goals, and maintain a schedule.

Subscribe to Tonnisha's Tip of The Month

Each week, one of The Circle of Experts talks about critical aspects of growing your podcast. We focus on marketing, social media, monetization, website design, and implementation of all of these to help you make the best podcast possible.

Have a question or an idea for one of our episodes? Send us an email at [email protected].

The Circle of Experts are:

Yasmine Robles from Rebel Marketing

Tonnisha English-Amamoo of TJE Communications

Don The Idea Guy

Brett Johnson, My Podcast Guy®, from Circle 270 Media® Podcast Consultants

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/vince-mcgill/lemon-slice

License code: 2NRNUIV5VG7FU3K5

Copyright 2025 Brett Johnson, My Podcast Guy™