Let's chat about the biggest red flag when it comes to podcast guests: the obsession with audience size.

Seriously, if the first thing a potential guest wants to know is how many downloads your show gets, it’s a major warning sign. It’s like they’re only interested in what they can milk out of your audience, rather than the value they can bring.

Today I look at why that’s a total turn-off and how the best guests focus on delivering value instead of just self-promotion. We also share some hilarious stories about awkward guest interactions, and trust me, you’ll be cringing and laughing at the same time. It’s a wild ride through the absurdity of podcasting dynamics that’ll have you shaking your head in disbelief.

Takeaways:

• Bad podcast guests often only care about their own promotion and not yours.
• When looking for podcast guests, focus on whether they can add value to your audience.
• The first question from a guest shouldn't be about your audience size, it's a huge red flag.
• A good guest will want to know about your audience, not just how big it is.
• Building relationships after interviews is key; don’t let it be a one-off thing.
• Grow your influence through solo shows and your network through interviews, that’s the game.

Links referenced in this episode:

• podmatch.com
• podcastguests.com
• schoolofpodcasting.com

Mentioned in this episode:

Is Your Podcast Not Growing?

Struggling to grow your podcast beyond friends and family? You're not alone. I've been there too. That's why I created "10 Proven Strategies to Grow Your Podcast Audience" - a free guide packed with actionable techniques that have helped countless podcasters expand their reach and build loyal listener communities. Stop guessing what works. These are battle-tested methods used by top podcasters who speak to engaged audiences every week. Head to schoolofpodcasting.com/10tips now and download the free guide because your podcast deserves to be heard.

10 Tips

In this episode, we look at essential strategies for fitting podcasting into a hectic schedule. Whether you're balancing a full-time job, family, or other commitments, maintaining consistency in podcast creation can be challenging. I share time management hacks and scheduling tips tailored for busy podcasters like you.

Introduction to Consistent Podcasting: Why consistency matters and how it can enhance your connection with your audience.

Understanding Your Time: Learn the importance of tracking your time with tools like Clockify to gain insight into your current scheduling habits.

Scheduling Strategies: Discover practical advice on how to effectively incorporate podcasting into a busy life. Learn how to adjust your podcasting schedule based on your available time, not the other way around.

Balancing Act: Get tips on how to balance podcasting with personal commitments, ensuring you don't sacrifice essential aspects of your life.

Flexible Podcast Scheduling: Explore options for podcast frequency, such as bi-weekly or monthly episodes, and understand why it's okay to choose a schedule that works for you.

Avoiding Burnout: I discuss the risks of overcommitting and share strategies to prevent burnout by maintaining a healthy work-life-podcast balance.

Ready to Start Podcasting?

Consider signing up for the School of Podcasting to get tailored advice and support. Use the coupon code 'listener' for a membership discount, available in monthly, quarterly, or yearly plans.

Clockify: A time-tracking tool to help manage your podcasting schedule.

School of Podcasting: Visit the School of Podcasting for more resources and to sign up using the discount code 'listener'.

Mentioned in this episode:

Is Your Podcast Not Growing?

Struggling to grow your podcast beyond friends and family? You're not alone. I've been there too. That's why I created "10 Proven Strategies to Grow Your Podcast Audience" - a free guide packed with actionable techniques that have helped countless podcasters expand their reach and build loyal listener communities. Stop guessing what works. These are battle-tested methods used by top podcasters who speak to engaged audiences every week. Head to schoolofpodcasting.com/10tips now and download the free guide because your podcast deserves to be heard.

10 Tips

So, someone on Reddit wrote, “My podcast stinks,” and I think we should talk about it.

Spoiler alert: just because your download numbers are low doesn’t mean your podcast is a total flop—like, it’s not the end of the world if you’re not raking in those big numbers. We chat about how it’s not just about the content but also the delivery, because if your audio sounds like it’s coming from a tin can, uh, good luck with that! We also throw around some ideas on getting feedback, practicing your craft, and remembering your “why” behind podcasting. So, grab your headphones and let’s chat about how to make sure your podcast doesn’t suck—unless that’s your goal, in which case, carry on!

Reddit is a wild place, huh? So, some poor soul decided to air their podcast grievances and proclaimed, 'my podcast stinks!' Cue the collective gasp from the podcasting community. But instead of spiraling into despair, we examine what this actually means for podcasters everywhere.

I mean, who defines success anyway? Our conversation kicks off by flipping the script on the typical podcasting narrative. We chat about how every download counts, even if it's just your mom and your dog tuning in. If you’ve ever thought about throwing in the towel because your download numbers look like the score of a bad baseball game, we’ve got some comforting truths for you. Your show could be a massive success if it brings you joy, which is really what matters, right?

Then we tackle some serious podcasting wisdom. If your audience is only a handful of people, that’s still a gathering! It's like playing to a room full of friends who actually want to hear what you have to say. We argue about the importance of content and delivery, because let’s face it, you could have the most riveting subject matter, but if it sounds like you recorded it in a tin can, good luck keeping anyone around. I offer some tips on spicing things up, like practicing your delivery (yes, even if it feels like talking to yourself in the mirror). Let’s be honest, we all need to keep sharpening our skills.

And naturally, we can’t resist discussing the age-old podcasting dilemma: why are you even doing this? If your goal is to have fun, then congratulations! You’re winning! But if you’re in it for fame and fortune without a plan, well, you might want to rethink your strategy. The episode wraps up with some encouragement to get feedback and engage with your audience—because who knows, they might just love that thing you think is a total flop! So tune in and let’s redefine success together.

• Just because your podcast isn't on the charts doesn't mean it’s a flop; success looks different for everyone.
• If you’re podcasting for fun and enjoying the process, then congratulations, you’re winning at life!
• Your show might be reaching just a handful of listeners, but hey, those are still real humans tuning in, right?
• Feeling like your podcast stinks? Maybe it’s time to ask for some honest feedback from friends or fellow podcasters.
• Tired of low download numbers? Remember, it takes time to grow an audience; patience is key, my friend!
• Practicing your delivery is like stretching before a workout; it makes all the difference for your podcasting game.

• Reddit
• School of Podcasting