Want to grow your podcast? So do I! I’ve been podcasting since 2016, and I’m learning new tricks all the time. There are new ways to grow, monetize and get found that I’m exploring (and it’s working!). By implementing these strategies, you’ll create a podcast that captivates your target audience, builds an engaged community and amplifies your reach. Remember, it’s not just about the numbers; it’s about creating meaningful connections with your listeners and delivering valuable content that leaves a lasting impact. And if you find podcasting as rewarding and cathartic as I do, you’ll ensure you stick around for a long time!
How to Grow Your Podcast in 2023
-
Clearly Define Your Tribe:
Let’s start by getting crystal clear on who your podcast is for. Take the time to deeply understand your ideal listener, their passions, struggles, and aspirations. Craft episodes specifically tailored to resonate with your target audience. When you speak directly to their hearts and minds, they’ll feel seen, understood, and more likely to become loyal fans.
2. Create Value-Packed Content:
When it comes to podcasting, quality reigns supreme, and that starts with your speaking skills, vocal quality, research and value. I used to think the most top-notch equipment mattered. Well, it doesn’t. I record some of my episodes straight into my iPhone. Gone are the days where you need a soundproof booth and expensive mic. Instead, just ensure each episode is full of valuable insights, actionable advice, or captivating stories. Aim to empower, educate, and entertain your audience, leaving them hungry for more.
3. Expand Your Reach on YouTube:
While audio remains the heart of podcasting, incorporating video on YouTube can give your show a new lease on life. Record your podcast episodes with video and upload them to YouTube. Leverage the visual medium to engage viewers with visuals, graphics, and eye-catching thumbnails. Optimize your YouTube channel with relevant keywords and compelling titles to attract organic traffic and introduce your podcast to a broader audience. YouTube is how a lot of people consume their content these days, but it’s also how more podcasters are being found.
4. Foster a Thriving Community:
Podcasts aren’t just about broadcasting; they’re about building a community of like-minded individuals. Encourage your listeners to connect and engage with you and each other. Create a dedicated Facebook group or an online forum where your community can gather, share their thoughts, and support one another. By nurturing this sense of belonging, you’ll cultivate loyal fans who will eagerly spread the word about your show. In my podcast episode where I interview Sal Di Stefano from Mind Pump, we talk all about doing live meetups and how they bond listeners, which just grows the community even more.
5. Leverage the Power of Social Media:
Social media is an essential tool for podcast promotion. Period. Create engaging profiles on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter to connect with your audience. Share snippets, teasers, and compelling quotes from your episodes. Encourage listeners to share your content and engage with them through comments and direct messages. Create Stories and use TikTik to just talk to your audience and explain recent podcast topics. Ask questions and create Story polls to get people engaged. By actively participating in social media conversations, you’ll amplify your podcast’s reach and forge deeper connections with your audience.
6. Collaborate with Fellow Podcasters:
Teamwork makes the dream work, and collaboration with other podcasters can skyrocket your growth. Identify influencers or complementary shows in your niche and explore opportunities for guest appearances or joint episodes. These cross-promotional endeavors expose your podcast to new audiences, spark fresh conversations, and establish valuable connections within the podcasting community. I’ve done this with Lewis Howes, Mind Pump, Natalie Jill, Mel Robbins and more, and it always generates new followers.
7. Engage Authentically with Your Audience:
Your listeners are the lifeblood of your podcast, so make sure to authentically engage with them. Encourage reviews, ratings, and comments, and respond to feedback promptly. Consider hosting live Q&A sessions at a meetup (or like I do on Patreon using Zoom), listener challenges, or special giveaways to show your appreciation. By building a genuine connection with your audience, you’ll foster loyalty and turn casual listeners into passionate advocates.
8. Harness the Power of Email Marketing:
Email marketing is a tried-and-true method to nurture your podcast community. Create an email list and offer exclusive content, behind-the-scenes insights, and bonus episodes to your subscribers. Craft personalized newsletters that resonate with your audience, and keep them updated on upcoming episodes, events, and exciting announcements. By delivering value straight to their inbox, you’ll keep your podcast top of mind and build a strong bond with your community. I do this every Friday with my “Snapshot” newsletter.
9. Maximize Discoverability with Transcriptions and Show Notes:
Boost your podcast’s discoverability and cater to various learning preferences by providing transcriptions and detailed show notes. Transcriptions make your content accessible to a wider audience, including those with hearing impairments, while improving search engine rankings. Show notes serve as a roadmap, allowing listeners to quickly navigate to the sections they find most intriguing. Both these additions enhance the user experience and make your podcast more attractive to potential listeners.
10. Stay Consistent and Embrace Evolution:
Consistency is the secret sauce to podcasting success. Commit to a regular release schedule and stick to it. Be reliable and dependable, and your audience will develop a sense of anticipation for your episodes. However, remember that growth requires adaptation. Embrace new technologies, formats, and trends. Continually evaluate your strategies, experiment with new ideas, and never shy away from evolving your podcast to meet the changing needs of your audience.
Comment below the name of your podcast so that I can check it out!
And here are additional resources about podcasting:
YouTube and Podcast Show Growth
Grow Your Podcast & Community Tips With Sal Di Stefano from Mind Pump
Don’t forget to subscribe to BYT for weekly shows dedicated to business growth and social media success!
We are also on YouTube! All our podcasts can be found in video form! Click here to subscribe.
