Prologue
The Pause Button
I’m pausing weekly issues while I focus on finishing my upcoming book, Podcast Launch Plan.
I'll be back in January. Until then, here are three ways to keep in touch:
- My podcasting articles on Substack.
- Get email updates on the book (as well as requests for specific podcaster examples ... it could be you I'm looking to feature.)
- Send any podcasting-related questions to me via Bluesky.
My podcast on podcasting, Build a Big Podcast will continue to be released at least once per week.
I'll see you back here in January!
Sponsor
Big Podcast AMP
If you like the newsletter, you'll love Big Podcast AMP (Audio Monetization Program).
This personal coaching program helps you do three things:
- Grow your podcast audience.
- Get people talking about your podcast.
- Make more money with your podcast (and podcasting skills).
You can get details here.
Podcast Marketing
Growing Your Newsletter (Or Podcast)
NOTE: I've seen a lot of comments this week about ConvertKit raising its prices. If you use ConvertKit for your newsletter, check out Encharge on Appsumo for a nice alternative with a one-time cost (no recurring fees)!
As far as building your email list or newsletter, this guy has some good advice on:
- Setting Up Your Newsletter (The Smart Way)
- Growing Your List (Without Being Annoying)
- Making Money (Without Feeling Gross)
- Writing Tips / Structure
- Technical Stuff
All of this applies to your podcast, by the way, so take a look, even if you don't have a newsletter.
Three things you'll relate to:
- Your podcast is a conversation, not a broadcast.
- Talk like you're speaking to a friend.
- Start small, stay consistent, and build relationships with listeners.
Good luck!
Podcast Hosting Skills
Eight Ways to Develop Your Unique Voice
The list below is my modified version of this list, which was made for writers.
- Say what you’re scared to say.
- Leverage your experiences.
- Showcase your flaws.
- Stand out.
- Ignore rules.
- Practice.
- Pay attention to others.
- Pay attention to yourself.
I agree with some, but not all of these. I'm going through each on episodes of Build a Big Podcast if you want my thoughts on why each of these matter (or don't matter).
Podcast Production
Podcasters and Romance Novelists
I ran into a friend of mine in the book publishing business and he mentioned a woman he knows who makes *one million dollars per month in the romance genre.
"Is her stuff any good?" I asked him.
"Of course not," he replied.
This genre is legendary for churn and burn, both by writers and readers.
- Set a daily word-count goal
- Time writing and breaks
- Don’t get stuck on specific words
- Set boundaries with your family and friends
- Start small, but write everyday
- If you’re stuck, write crap for a few minutes
Some good advice for podcasters here. The main thing ... make the commitment, set the stage, and keep going.
Personally, I've found it helpful to have a set time when I'll be recording. Note that this is easier when you have a guest, producer, or somebody else working with you. It's easy to delay when it's just you.
Do I always want to step into the studio and record? No. But I've found that feeling and energy comes when I get started.
What motivates you to get behind the mic and record? Let me know.
Podcast Humor
Podcasters Podcast
Podcasters make podcasts ...
... and when they aren't making podcasts, they buy microphones.
The Wrap Up
More Help for Your Podcast ...
If you want the shortcut to building a podcast people care about, here’s how Big Podcast can help you …
Free of charge ...
- Big Podcast Extra – Short emails to help you build an audience, attract clients, and make money via podcasting
- Build a Big Podcast – The Marketing Podcast for Podcasters
- Podcast Growth Toolkit – The "Swiss Army Knife" of podcasting ...
For budgets under $750 …
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For budgets of $3000 or more …
We offer a range of podcasting services including:
- Full-service podcast production and marketing
- Podcast and radio hosting
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