I’m taking a moment to celebrate a special milestone – our 200th episode!
It’s been an incredible 7-year journey, and I want to share some valuable insights from this experience that can help you turn your podcast into a marketing machine for your business.
I took a look at my most successful clients to find out what they’ve done and what they’re doing that has contributed to their success. In short, this is what’s working for entrepreneurs using podcasting for their business growth.
1. Building a Strong Foundation: Your Business
I often encounter entrepreneurs eager to turn their podcast into a business. While it’s possible, the more successful approach is to already have a well-established business. Your podcast should complement and drive interest to your existing business. Start by being crystal clear about the problem your business solves and who it solves that problem for. This clarity is your guide; everything about your podcast, from name to artwork, should seamlessly align with your business’ purpose and brand.
2. Be Clear on Your Podcast’s Intention
Let me be frank. You podcast’s intention is NOT maximum download numbers. Your podcast’s intention needs to go beyond the downloads and being clear on that is crucial. It’s not just about being the most popular kid on the block. What do those downloads mean to you? Define your podcast’s purpose and set measurable goals using key performance indicators (KPIs). If you’ve been fixated on download numbers, it’s time for a shift. In episode 177, I discussed the most important question to ask about your podcast goals, and in episode 51, we delved into whether you’re focusing on the right podcast stats.
3. Crafting a System: The Power of a Funnel
If you’ve done 1 & 2 (align your podcast with your business and establish clear intentions) the next thing I see working is having a system. Successful podcasters have a funnel that defines their listener’s journey. You need to understand what role your podcast is going to play in that funnel and make sure that you are using your podcast effectively to feed it. Integrating your podcast into your funnel boosts its impact and means that you can track whether your podcast is moving the needle for your business and goals.
4. The Ecosystem Approach: Beyond the Podcast
A podcast doesn’t operate in isolation; it’s part of a broader marketing ecosystem. Understand that your podcast is a valuable marketing tool but not the entire strategy. Leverage it to drive engagement across social channels, your website, and newsletters. Successful podcasters use their show to enhance their authority, ensuring their audience knows about the valuable content they provide. This is probably the biggest difference between my clients who are killing it and the podcasters I meet who are struggling.
5. Embracing Support: You Don’t Have to Go It Alone
The most successful podcasters don’t attempt the journey solo. There are so many ways to get support these days. You can hire an editor, social media manager, or podcast producer. Consider a podcast performance coach, ahem, like me, to align your show with your business goals. Embrace podcast tools and automation to streamline your processes. When you delegate smaller tasks, you can focus on the bigger picture, driving significant growth for your podcast and business.
Take Action for Your Podcast’s Success
I’ve seen these insights propel my clients to success, and now it’s your turn. Apply these principles to your podcast immediately. Clarify your business, set intentions, establish a system, create a marketing ecosystem, and don’t hesitate to seek support. Your podcast growth means business growth.
Want to be one of the success stories I brag about 100 episodes from now? Let’s dive deep into these areas in a free podcast coaching call. Book your free 15-minute coaching call HERE.
