Prologue
Subscriber-Only Messages
The email version of this newsletter contained a message different from this one. It was about a time-sensitive offer which is no longer available.
Want to really connect with the subscribers of your podcast? Have something just for them.
Not everything has to be repurposed and posted in multiple places.
If you're into repurposing (as well as bonus content), check out the audio edition of this newsletter.
But before you do, be sure to subscribe here, so you don't miss time-sensitive messages in the future.
Steal This Idea
Spotify Wrapped is Back!
Everybody and his brother is sharing Spotify Wrapped graphics right now, so it's a great opportunity for you to join an existing conversation by sharing the Wrapped for Podcasters version that was made just for your podcast.
Podcast Hosting Skills
"Louder Than a Riot" Tips for Starting a Podcast
What happens when hip-hop stars come into contact with the criminal justice system? This is one of the topics that Louder Than A Riot looked at.
These are the kind of people you want to listen to. And they've got some great tips for starting a podcast.
The final quote ...
“I have friends who have done long-form narrative shows in their spare time with a producer, a host and an editor. And that’s it. It just really depends on how scrappy you want to be.”
And it wasn't just talk ... In the middle of the second season, Louder Than A Riot was dropped by NPR, but the hosts (and production staff) were so committed to finishing it, they did it independently.
Podcasting Events
Sonic Dash Audio Competition - January 5-7
Do you have what it takes to create a compelling audio piece in 48 hours?
If you enter this competition, you'll receive a prompt via email on Friday, January 5 at Noon EST. You'll then have the next 48 hours to create an audio piece (from scratch!) that runs 2 minutes or less.
This is very similar to KCRW's Radio Race and a great opportunity to add something new to your portfolio and meet some great people.
If you do this, let me know via Mastodon, Bluesky, or Threads! I'd love to help you get the word out about what you create.
Podcasting News
SCAM ALERT: "I Just Got Suckered to Be a Guest on a Podcast for $3000."
This "influencer scam" is worth being aware of.
While the chances of something like this happening to you are slim, it's important to keep stories like this in mind for when we approach guests. The more things like this that happen to people, the harder we have to work to get guests to take a chance on us.
Somewhat related ...
A few years ago, the television show Undercover Boss reached out to me about doing an interview with an "upcoming country music artist." There were some red flags, but like this scam, these guys were good.
I'll be sharing the full story in the audio edition of this newsletter.
Have you ever been conned online? Let me know via Mastodon, Bluesky, or Threads!
Podcast Production
Want to start a podcast? Read this first ...
Use these prompts and quick tips to get your creative process started:
- What is this idea? No, really. What is it?
- Is a podcast the best format for this? Why?
- What do I want to accomplish?
- What makes this distinctive from other similar podcasts?
- How passionate am I about the story/concept?
- Why am I the right person to make this podcast?
- Do I have the people, time and resources to make this?
Don’t just throw spaghetti at the wall — be intentional! Get the full list of questions to ask yourself before jumping in.
And when you're ready to grow your podcast ... I can help!
Podcast Humor
If "Wrapped for Podcasters" Was Honest ...
In all seriousness, Spotify's Wrapped is honest. But depending on your market, it may not show the full picture of how well your podcast is doing.
Spotify is a music-first platform. Most people, especially listeners who are 25 or older, do not listen to podcasts on Spotify.
Is there an opportunity for your podcast and Spotify? Yes, especially since Google Podcasts is going away and Android users need a good podcast player.
Do you have mobile-friendly "subscription page" for your podcast? If not, get one to help give your Spotify numbers a boost.
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.
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.