Prologue
The $79 Computer
Yesterday, I got a computer for $79. It's not fancy, but it gets the job done. In fact, I'm using it to write this message.
The computer I used to record the audiobook version of Big Podcast was free. Get the story here.
You don't need fancy (or expensive) equipment to do great work. Just ask this guitarist with one string (and 61,000,000 views).
But you do need to do the work. I talked about that on the most recent episode of Build a Big Podcast, which is about how to get your first 1000 podcast subscribers.
It's a simple process. But few will do it.
Which is exactly why it stands out when you do.
Sponsor
TidyCal - $29 Podcast Scheduler
Sick of recurring "booking calendar" fees? Get a lifetime deal on TidyCal for only $29.
Tired of missed interviews? TidyCal automatically converts time zones and sends confirmation emails to all participants, so everybody knows when (and where) to show up.
Podcaster Opportunities
T2 Invites for Podcasters
T2 is a new social media network created by ex-Twitter, Google, and Discord employees.
It's invite-only right now and there's a waitlist. But not for you ... if you get one of these 25 invites.
I've been on it for a few days and it's a nice platform. Definitely worth a look.
NOTE: I'm working on getting more invites. If you miss one of the 25 I have right now, keep trying. :)
Steal This Idea
Episode Notes on Steroids
Love this idea from the Everyone Hates Marketers podcast.
This is basically a database of everything mentioned on each episode – books, software, resources, etc. The more something is mentioned, the higher it is on the chart.
Would you be interested in something like this for your podcast? Let me know via T2, Bluesky, or Mastodon. I'm working on putting something like this together with some inexpensive "no-code" tools and am happy to share my progress (and hopefully plan) with you.
Podcast Hosting Skills
How to Overcome "Writer's Block"
I was hanging out with a bigwig social media guy a couple of years ago, going down the line at a Chipoltle.
This guy is always looking for content ideas ...
A guy in the kitchen grabbed a massive metal bowl and started mixing guacamole. My friend pulled out his phone and took a photo.
A couple of days later, he posted the photo with a caption and story related to his audience.
When it comes to your podcast, it can be helpful to always be on the lookout for new episode and topic ideas. But even the best of us hit "writer's block" sometimes ...
According to this article, here are five of the biggest blocks writers experience:
- Not knowing where to start
- Not knowing what to write
- Not having enough time
- Feeling overwhelmed
- Feeling unmotivated
Does this sound like you? If so, reach out to me via T2, Bluesky, or Mastodon. I'd love to get on a quick, 20-minute Zoom call with you to find out more about where you're stuck.
I'm not selling anything, by the way – I'm working on a new book and doing research for it.
Podcasting Tools
Remove Background from Images for Free
I love this free tool to remove the background from images. It's great for social media profiles, custom epiode art, and so much more.
No special knowledge of graphic design is needed – just upload the image with the background you want removed and it does everything for you with a single click!
Podcast Production
15 Principles of Guest Booking
A few years ago, I was at a podcasting conference that was made up of two distinct groups – independent podcasters and people from NPR.
I remember being at one of the NPR-led panels where the advice given was, "Let your producer handle that."
And I remember thinking to myself, "These people are in a completely different business from the indie podcasters who are here."
And most podcasters are as well. But NPR does a lot of things right, so anything happening there is worth paying attention to. For example, these 15 Principles of Guest Booking.
Everything on the list is worth consideration, but here's the (almost) 50% I think is the most important:
- Before you make any calls, develop a core understanding of the conversation.
- The most important quality in a guest is that they know what they’re talking about.
- That said, don’t let the great be the enemy of the good.
- Don’t be afraid to bail on an idea that just isn’t working.
- If a potential guest is too dense, a little coaching might help (but it also might not).
- Temper guest expectations.
- Always thank your guest.
What's do you think is the most important aspect of guest booking? Let me know via T2, Bluesky, or Mastodon.
Podcast Humor
If Podcasts Were Honest
This is a funny video, but also a very clever ad for earbuds. A little long, but I think a lot of people here will appreciate it as there are some real truths here as far as content creation.
Classifieds
Swell AI
Swell AI automates writing podcast summaries, articles, social posts, and more.
- Manage multiple shows in one dashboard.
- Build custom templates for each show.
- Connects with Google Drive, Dropbox, and Zoom.
Riverside - Remote Recording Studio
Riverside records high-quality audio (and video) directly from your browser. No special equipment is needed and connecting with your guest is as simple as sending a web link!
You can try Riverside free (no credit card is needed) and, if you like it, save 15% on any paid plan by using the coupon code BIGPODCAST.
Your Ad Here – Only $35!
I believe in podcasting and independent business. Because of this, I've made discount ad slots available for independent companies who support podcasters.
If you'd like to reach an audience of dedicated podcasters via both this newsletter and its audio edition (sent out via the Build a Big Podcast feed), get current availability and book your slot.
The Wrap Up
When you're ready, here's how I can help you even more ...
If you like the newsletter, you'll love Big Podcast AMP (Audio Monetization Program).
This personal coaching program has been designed to help you do three things:
- Grow your podcast audience.
- Get people talking about your podcast.
- Make more money with your podcast.
You can get details here.