Growing a podcast isn’t just about hitting record and hoping for the best. If you’ve been tuning in, you know we’re all about making remarkable content that actually resonates with listeners. Last week, we dug deep into what successful shows are doing differently, and trust me, it’s not rocket science. It’s about conversation, not just broadcasting.
Today, I’m sharing free tools and insights to help connect with your audience better and some juicy news from Spotify that might just change the way you think about your podcast. Spoiler alert: it’s not all sunshine and rainbows.
I looked at some of the big names in the biz and guess what? Most of them have one thing in common — they interact with their listeners. They don’t just talk at you; they want to talk with you. We’re talking newsletters, voicemails, and even knowing the eye color of your audience. Because if you can relate to your listeners on that level, you’re doing something right. I even had a hilarious blunder with my email list that turned into a goldmine of feedback — the kind of feedback that makes or breaks your show. So, if you’re still wondering why your podcast isn’t growing, it might be time to roll up those sleeves and get face-to-face with your audience, even if it’s over Zoom.
The best way to find out what your audience wants is to ask them. I’m inviting you into my podcast kitchen to help shape future episodes. Because at the end of the day, your podcast should feel like a recipe that everyone can enjoy together. Join me for a live chat on October 16th where we’ll dive into what you want to hear, and let’s make this show the best it can be. Remember, if you want to grow, you have to listen first. Now, go out there and start those conversations!
My Favorite Mistake: The I Sent My Whole List a Calendar Invite
I once thought I had setup a filter on my email list so it would only go to 10 people. I sent out an email with a link to schedule time on my calendar. I was doing some market research.
Imagine my surprise when I found it the email went THOUSANDS of email address and soon my calendar was filled with one on one meetings with my audience. Here is the thing:
It was the best mistake I've ever made. I really got to know my audience, and more importantly, they got to know me. The relationship I had with my audience got stronger, and I got some great feedback on ways to improve my show.
Tools To Get In Touch With Your Audience
You could do this via zoom for $18/month (and cancel after the first month), if you need a free email tool look at systeme (aff), which does email, communities, digital and physical goods, courses and more. You can use lu.ma to have people register (it's free if you don't charge). Lu.ma then reminds people, and makes it easy for them to add the meeting to their calendar. If you are looking for an affordable calendar tool, check out Tidycal. Unlike Calendly (that charges you a monthly fee) Tidycal is a low one time payment for a lifetime deal. I've used it for years.
Affordable Lifetime Music Deal
I've been using Audio Blocks for my background music, and I was aware of TuneReel (as you can buy a single song for around $15. They have a lifetime deal around $300 and this includes a license for your Podcast! They have THOUSANDS of songs to choose from and there are no “Cheap Casio Keyboard” sounding drums, etc. Check it out! (aff)
Takeaways:
- In episode 1000, we chatted about making remarkable content to grow your podcast, like, duh!
- Big shows aren't just blabbing at their audience—they're having a whole conversation with them.
- I found out almost all successful podcasts have a newsletter (or some other way to DIRECTLY communicate with their audience), so maybe get on that bandwagon.
- If you can name your audience's eye color, you're definitely connecting. That's the goal.
- The best feedback comes from real people, so meet them face to face if you can, it's a game changer.
- I made a huge email blunder once, and it turned out to be the best mistake ever, trust me!
Links referenced in this episode:
- schoolofpodcasting.com
- podpage.com
- podcastmovement.com
- buzzsprout.com
- convertkit.com
- mailerlite.com
- systeme (free Email List)
- podfest.com
- Zoom Meeting Software
- EoFire Show (John Lee Dumas' Show)
- Podcast Hot Seat (Podcast Audits)
- How to Grow Your Podcast
- TuneReel Music for Podcasts
- Podnews Weekly Review (one of my Favs!)
- Podcasting 2.0
Ready to Plan, Launch and Grow Your Podcast?
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Your audience will thank you.
