Your Mic

Speak up for your brand. Speke Podcasting.

At Speke Podcasting, we amplify voices and elevate brands through the power of podcasting. Our diverse portfolio of shows spans health, history, beauty, and social impact, each crafted to engage and inspire audiences.

Why Choose Speke Podcasting?

-Expert Production: High-quality audio that captivates listeners.

-Strategic Marketing: Tailored promotion to grow your audience.

-Brand Alignment: Ensuring your podcast reflects your unique voice and values.

From concept to launch, we're committed to making your podcast a powerful extension of your brand. You rock the mic, we’ll handle the rest.

Ready to amplify your voice? Message our founder at [email protected]!

What happens when you leave corporate America behind and bet on your own idea? Have you ever wondered if you could go from applying for hundreds of jobs to creating something from scratch?

In this episode, I'm sharing the real story behind Speke Podcasting's journey, including:

• Why your greatest rival in business might just be your own reflection
• What it takes to launch a business without loans or credit
• Speke Fest 2025 will bring podcasters together in October

Subscribe to Your Mic on YouTube, Apple, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

Shoot Freddy an email: [email protected].

Buy tickets to Speke Fest: Night of the Living Pod here.

Key Takeaways

1. The Unexpected Journey of Entrepreneurship
Takeaway:
Freddy Cruz never planned to start Speke Podcasting and initially struggled to find work after leaving radio, unsuccessfully applying for over 400 jobs. His story underscores that sometimes our career paths take surprising turns, and embracing those can lead to unexpected and rewarding opportunities.

2. The Realities and Challenges of Building a Business
Takeaway:
Owning a business is significantly more difficult, time-consuming, and expensive than it appears from the outside. Freddy emphasizes persistence, learning from failure, and the importance of self-reliance (operating without loans or lines of credit) when building something from scratch.

3. The Role of Support Systems
Takeaway:
Freddy credits his wife, family, clients, and business partners as essential to his company’s survival and growth. This highlights that no entrepreneurial journey is truly solo—support and belief from others make a huge difference.

4. Purpose-Driven Business and Conscious Capitalism
Takeaway:
Speke Podcasting aims to create genuine connections, treating clients as friends and operating with purpose beyond profit. The core idea is that success feels more meaningful when a business is driven by values and relationships, not just revenue.

5. The Power of Community and Forward Thinking
Takeaway:
Looking to the future, Freddy is focused on building community through events like Speke Fest 2025. He believes in creating spaces for collaboration, personal development, and resurrecting (“zombie”) podcasts—emphasizing that growth comes from rallying people around a shared vision.

Timestamped Overview

00:00 "Speke Podcasting's 2nd Anniversary"

03:59 "Plan Your Exit Strategy"

08:47 Joy in Mystery and Challenges

11:32 Building Our Empires Together

15:59 Zombie Podcast Conference Announced

Support the show: https://cruzthroughhtx.com/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How can you manage stress in your podcasting journey or professional life?

Lolita Guarin joins Freddy Cruz to share stress management strategies. She introduces the CALM method—control, acceptance/appreciation, limiting what doesn’t work, and multiplying what does. Lolita explains how childhood experiences and learned behaviors shape adult stress responses. She describes the importance of emotional regulation and recognizing subconscious patterns from early childhood. 

The discussion shifts to common pitfalls, like following ineffective advice out of loyalty, and the value of self-reflection. Lolita recounts her costly mistake hiring a podcast booking service and how she found success pitching herself. She encourages identifying what works in your process and letting go of attachments that are no longer valuable. 

For more on the CALM method and stress management resources, go to her website or check out her podcast, Be Amazing You on YouTube.

This episode is brought to you by Speke Fest 2025. Secure your spot HERE!

Subscribe to Your Mic on YouTube, Apple, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

Grab your Speke Podcasting roadmap HERE.

Shoot Freddy an email: [email protected]

Key Takeaways

1. Many of our stress responses and inability to handle emotions originate from patterns learned in early childhood, particularly before the age of seven. Without learning emotional regulation and coping strategies as children, we often carry unhelpful habits and fears into adulthood, affecting everything from our work to our relationships.

2. The CALM method (Control, Acceptance/Appreciation, Limiting what doesn’t work, and Multiplying what does) offers a practical, step-by-step approach to managing stress. The process involves identifying what you can control, accepting what you cannot, limiting behaviors that are unhelpful, and repeating the actions that bring positive results.

3. Sticking to old patterns—whether out of loyalty to parents, coaches, or even our former selves—can keep us trapped in ineffective or even harmful habits. Real freedom and reduced stress come from questioning these loyalties and consciously choosing what truly works for us now, rather than what we were taught to do.

4. Even costly mistakes, such as spending thousands on misguided advice or methods, can offer valuable lessons. By reflecting on what didn’t work, we can adapt, try new approaches (like self-pitching for podcast guesting), and ultimately find more authentic, sustainable success.

5. Whether it’s podcasting or personal growth, thriving comes from self-awareness and flexibility—paying attention to what actually yields results (instead of what “should” work according to others), and being willing to shift formats or abandon unproductive routines.

Timestamped Overview

00:00 "Stress Management Through Planning"

03:50 "Reflections on Fatherhood Habits"

07:23 "Control in Stressful Situations"

13:36 Human Relationships Shape Our Safety

15:17 Letting Go of Ineffective Habits

17:33 Stress Management Podcast Insights

21:18 "Successful Podcast Self-Marketing Journey"

25:53 Upcoming Book and Workbook Release

27:05 "Amazing Podcast and YouTube Channel"

Support the show: https://cruzthroughhtx.com/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why do so many new podcasters fail to grow their audiences and give up so soon?

Freddy Cruz argues it's because their shows are unfocused, dragging on without delivering value quickly. With listeners bombarded by countless distractions, no one has time to wait five minutes for the point. His solution: get clear, strategic, and to the value proposition within sixty seconds.

Subscribe to Your Mic on YouTube, Apple, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

Grab your Speke Podcasting roadmap HERE.

Shoot Freddy an email: [email protected]

Key Takeaways

1. Many creators fall into the trap of running a talk show rather than a focused podcast, leading to poor analytics and stagnant growth. It's critical to recognize the distinction and intentionally structure your episodes to add consistent value, rather than simply chatting on air.

2. Listeners need to know what value they're getting—and quickly. If you fail to deliver on your promise within the first 60 seconds (or ideally, even faster), you risk losing your audience entirely. The most successful shows get to the core message or topic right away.

3. A meandering or unfocused show is one of the main reasons podcast hosts give up after a few episodes. Without a strong value proposition and intentional content, listenership (and motivation as a creator) quickly fades.

4. With countless distractions, from other podcasts to phone notifications and advertisements, podcasters cannot expect people to wait several minutes for the content to start. Respecting listeners’ time is essential—get to the point, or risk being tuned out.

5. With millions of podcasts but only a fraction producing new episodes, the main culprit for early abandonment is the absence of a clear focus and strategy. It's not a lack of interesting stories, but rather a failure to structure and deliver them effectively that drives listeners away.

Support the show: https://cruzthroughhtx.com/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happens when one bold move puts an unknown name next to legends? Tommy Hilfiger was just another guy until a single Times Square billboard changed everything.

• We’ll look at why perception drives success before proof does.
• We’ll find out how podcasting today lets you bypass the gatekeepers.
• And we’ll see what it takes to stick with your message until the world catches on.

Subscribe to Your Mic on YouTube, Apple, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

Shoot Freddy an email: [email protected]

Key Takeaways

1. Tommy Hilfiger's career was instantly changed by a daring, unconventional billboard, showing that sometimes you have to demand attention and position yourself among the icons if you want to be noticed. Don’t wait for approval—create your own credibility.

2. In both fashion and podcasting, the perception you build (often before your actual “product” is known) is what drives your brand forward. Reality matters, but perception is what builds empires. Strategically managing how you’re perceived can skyrocket your visibility.

3. Today’s decentralized media landscape makes podcasting a powerful way to “put yourself on the map”—creating curiosity, credibility, and brand awareness, much like Tommy Hilfiger’s billboard did back in 1985. One episode, when crafted and promoted well, can change everything.

4. Success in podcasting (and entrepreneurship) is rarely instant. It’s not about your first episode—it’s about how long you can keep going through the low-listen days. Consistent effort over time is what leads to that one breakthrough moment.

5. Unlike in the past, you no longer need someone’s permission or industry approval to share your message. With podcasts, creators control their own narrative and access their audience directly. “Pick yourself,” broadcast your story, and connect with those who need to hear it.

Support the show: https://cruzthroughhtx.com/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Think about the last time you tried to get on a podcast. Maybe it was a cold email, or you spent hours crafting a pitch and still ended up with silence. Today, we'll break down what makes a podcast guest pitch stand out and the mistakes that send it straight to the rejection pile.

You’ll hear:

• What happens when a pitch misses simple details about a show

• Why building relationships matters more than a templated email

• How to make sure your pitch adds value to a host

Subscribe to Your Mic on YouTube, Apple, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

Shoot Freddy an email: [email protected]

Key Takeaways

1. A poor podcast guest pitch fails when it's generic, irrelevant, or shows a lack of research. Freddy Cruz breaks down an example highlighting classic mistakes—such as pitching after a show’s season has ended, failing to align with the show’s theme, and not establishing a local (Houston) connection. The main point: Do your homework and ensure your pitch is relevant and timely.

2. Effective outreach to podcast hosts goes beyond just sending a pitch. Cruz stresses building genuine relationships—interact on social media, comment on posts, follow up genuinely, and don’t immediately ask to be on the show. The concept: Networking and authentic connections increase your chances more than a cold, impersonal pitch ever will.

3. Aspiring guests shouldn’t expect to jump straight onto the biggest shows. Cruz advises starting on smaller podcasts that are a good fit, getting “reps” in as a guest, and gradually working your way up to larger audiences. The lesson: Growth is incremental—gain experience and credibility by starting small and climbing the ladder.

4. Before pitching, it’s critical to truly understand the show by listening to several episodes (not just the latest), reading about the host, and identifying previous relevant content. This helps you craft a specific, compelling pitch. The key: Thorough research tailors your approach and demonstrates real interest, setting you apart from generic pitches.

5. Your responsibility as a guest doesn’t end after the interview. Sharing your episode and helping promote the podcast helps both you and the host grow your audiences. Even a guest with a huge following can increase value by being proactive about sharing. The message: Promoting your episode is mutually beneficial—help your host win, and you win too.

Timestamped Overview

00:00 Podcast Pitch Falls Short

04:16 Effective Podcast Guest Pitching Strategies

06:32 "Podcast Pitching Insights"

09:44 "Maximizing Podcast Guest Impact"

13:17 Free Podcast Guesting Guide Available

 

Support the show: https://cruzthroughhtx.com/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happens when two podcast creators meet years ago, each taking a different path in Houston’s podcast scene? Raul Moreno, once in radio, set out to build a community for independent stories. Freddy Cruz began with military apparel, then turned his journey of recovery into a podcast that grew into something more. 

Together, they talk about:

• How trial and error shapes every episode and business move
• Supporting each other rather than competing in the world of podcast studios
• Building community and lifting up new voices in Pearland and beyond

Key Takeaways

1. Both Raul Moreno and Freddy Cruz reflect on their journeys from initial ventures into podcasting and production. Their stories highlight how growth often involves trial, error, and an openness to change, underscoring the value of starting small and evolving skills over time.

2. Despite running separate podcast production businesses in the Houston area, Raul and Freddy emphasize their friendship and collaborative mindset. Rather than seeing each other as rivals, they share referrals and support, advocating for a culture where abundance trumps rivalry and mutual success lifts everyone.

3. The conversation touches on overcoming setbacks, both technical and personal. They discuss how failure is inherent to growth, referencing personal mistakes with equipment, learning by doing, and the broader lesson that setbacks make eventual successes even more meaningful.

4. Raul and Freddy discuss the democratization of podcasting technology, noting how relatively affordable gear now allows anyone to create a high-quality show—something that would have been impossible decades ago. Their experiences using different tech (like Rode vs. Shure gear) highlight that passion and willingness to learn matter more than having perfect equipment.

5. A recurring theme is the value of community: both in terms of professional networks and personal support systems. The duo recounts how friends and colleagues gave them breaks or loaned gear early on, and how this spirit of generosity now influences how they help others get started. The importance of connecting, sharing, and not gatekeeping opportunities runs throughout the discussion.

Timestamped Overview

00:00 Collaboration Over Competition

03:51 Relocating Business to Shared Workspace

09:19 "Resilience Beyond Academic Pressure"

10:43 "Balancing Expectations and Self-Grace”

14:24 "Customizable Mics Revolutionize Broadcasting"

18:34 Raul: An Unforgettable Friend

Support the show: https://cruzthroughhtx.com/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are you overwhelmed trying to promote your podcast on every social media platform?

So many of us wonder if we need to post several times a day, everywhere, just to get noticed. Today, you’ll hear why you can grow your show smarter by:

• Focusing on just two platforms instead of all of them

• Analyzing where your audience spends time

• Doubling down on what’s working for your podcast

Subscribe to Your Mic on YouTube, Apple, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

Shoot Freddy an email: [email protected]

Key Takeaways

1. You need both quantity and quality, but quality comes from practicing and creating more content. It's like building up stamina—start small, get your reps in, and the quality will naturally improve as you go.

2. You do not need to be on every social media platform posting constantly. Instead, focus on just two platforms: your favorite and the one with the most growth potential for your podcast’s audience. This allows you to manage your time, reduce overwhelm, and be more strategic.

3. Identify where your audience actually spends time and meet them there. Even if it’s a platform you’re unfamiliar with, challenge yourself to create a presence where your podcast has the most potential to grow.

4. If a post does well, find ways to say the same thing differently multiple times and don’t be afraid to repost successful content months later. Iteration and recycling high-performing content are powerful growth strategies.

5. Utilize tools like Opus, CapCut, and Captions (including experimenting with AI features) to make creating and distributing content easier at scale. These tools help maintain a steady presence and streamline your workflow without needing to be everywhere at once.

Timestamped Overview

00:00 Podcast Growth Strategy Tips

04:56 "Content Creation Tools and AI Twins"

06:53 "Boost Your Podcast Engagement"

Support the show: https://cruzthroughhtx.com/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What makes retention rate a crucial metric in podcasting success?

Freddy Cruz explains that while reaching the first 1000 downloads is an exciting milestone, it's the retention rate that truly matters. Retention shows how engaging and valuable your content is to listeners. This insight helps podcasters refine their shows and attract potential sponsors.

Subscribe to Your Mic on YouTube, Apple, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

Shoot Freddy an email: [email protected]

Key Takeaways

1. Downloads vs. Retention Rate

   • Takeaway: While reaching 1,000 downloads is a significant milestone that indicates you're on the right track, it doesn't tell the whole story. True engagement is revealed through retention rates, as they show how much of your content listeners actually consume.

2. The Importance of Retention

   • Takeaway: High retention rates indicate engaging content and are more valuable than simply counting downloads. Retention reflects how effective your podcast is at keeping listeners tuned in from start to finish.

3. Podcast Episode Length

   • Takeaway: Shorter episodes often achieve higher retention rates because they are easier for listeners to complete. This is important for maintaining engagement, especially when listeners are multitasking.

4. Niche Content

   • Takeaway: Content that is tied to specific communities, events, or interests can engage a target audience deeply, resulting in higher retention rates. It shows the power of creating content that resonates with a defined group.

5. Guest Influence

   • Takeaway: Having influential guests can increase both downloads and engagement if they share the episode with their audience. Making it easy for guests to share further amplifies the reach and impact of your podcast.

Timestamped Overview

00:00 Podcast Success: Downloads vs. Retention

03:29 Podcasting vs. Traditional Radio Journey

08:13 Opt for Shorter Podcast Episodes

17:46 Leveraging Guest Influence Effectively

18:52 Focus on Podcast Listener Retention

Support the show: https://cruzthroughhtx.com/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Speke Fest 2025, October 10 and 11 at the National Museum of Funeral History, promises an energizing mix of marketing, networking, and personal development. 

With keynotes from industry leaders and workshops aimed at empowerment, attendees will leave inspired to elevate their shows—or even launch something new.

Early bird tickets are available all June, making it the perfect time to join the revolution.

Why should podcast hosts and aspiring creators attend Speke Fest 2025? 

The event centers on podcast marketing, networking, and personal development, with workshops, games, keynote speeches, and an after-party featuring a live DJ. 

Secure your spot HERE!

Support the show: https://cruzthroughhtx.com/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.