Prologue
Old School vs. New School
First, a couple of new things you may be interested in ...
- My new book on podcasting will be released on Tuesday. Pre-order for only $.99!
- Focusrite just released a cool new tool for podcasters, The Vocaster. You can see it here and listen to it here.
As far as "old" stuff, this issue of Big Podcast Insider talks about one of the oldest and most effective online tools we have when it comes to our podcasts – email.
I've been thinking a lot about email lately, largely because it's how I've been doing 99% of the outreach for the new book.
In this issue, I've got a couple of things for you to consider when it comes to your email. One is taking advantage of the email you already send each week, even if it's not promotion in nature. The other is how to improve how you respond to guest pitches you get via email, meeting requests, etc.
Speaking of guest pitches, if you've got a podcast with an audience who can benefit from marketing via guesting on podcasts or creating their own podcasts, I'd love to come on your show and help them to make those things happen. To arrange an interview with me, please reach out here.
Have a quick question about your podcast marketing? Twitter is the quickest way for me to get an answer to you.
Podcast Marketing
14 Best "Email Signature" Design Examples
An email signature feels old school to a lot of people, but this simple strategy works for getting more listeners to your podcast. Best of all, it's something that takes just a few minutes to set up and, once you do, you don't have to think about – all the "work" is done automatically.
My suggestion if you want more subscribers ... Two links – one for iPhone and one for Android. Then take people to with Apple Podcasts or Google Podcasts (or whatever "Android" podcast option you prefer).
Or, if you'd rather have a single "subscribe" link in your email signature, link to a page like this one and let people make the decision on a dedicated landing page.
This article is worth a look to get some ideas that go beyond the usual "name and company" you see most people use. But that works too, so if you want an easy way to get started with it check out this tool.
Podcast Production
How to Say No to Guest Pitches (and More)
Saying no is hard, but it's also essential for your sanity and the quality of your podcast. Here are some templates for how to say no, so you can take back your life.
Note that I think some of these are pretty harsh, while others almost apologize too much. To me, the secret of a good "no email" is being firm in your decision (you want to own it and don't want to have to explain yourself in a followup), but also being kind.
How do you find the balance of firm and kind? I think it helps if you've actually been in the sender's shoes. For example, if you're turning down a guest pitch for your podcast, you're going to have a different approach if you've pitched yourself (or somebody else) as a guest and been on the receiving end of a rejection.
Take a look, use what you feel resonates with you, and leave the rest.
Podcasting Deals
EmailBadge - The $9 Email Signature
If you're looking for an easy way to do an email signature, this tool is only $9.
Is it fancy? No. This is a quick and dirty tool that will get you going now though and let you know if this strategy works for you.
The Business of Podcasting
THIS IS IMPORTANT! Copyright Claims Up to $30,000 ...
"Copyright Trolls" are also going to have a field day with this.
It's nothing to be scared of, but do be aware. Generally, I think it's a good idea.
As the first ever copyright small claims forum, the CCB will provide an accessible and efficient option...involving claims up to $30,000.
The quick and dirty ...
The Copyright Claims Board (CCB) is a three-member tribunal with extensive expertise in copyright matters that provides a streamlined alternative to federal court to resolve copyright disputes involving claims up to $30,000.
More info is linked.
The Wrap Up
Like this Newsletter? Tell a Friend ...
My goal is to better empower podcasters to be more successful spreading their messages and make more money with their podcasts.
I'd love it if you'll help me spread the word about this newsletter by sending your podcasting friends to bigpodcast.com/newsletter.