Podcasting Q&A (Buzzsprout)

Have you ever tried to explain what a podcast is to a friend or family member?

Here's a quick breakdown of how podcasting works and how you can easily find and listen to new shows.

Record your podcasting question at Speakpipe.com/Buzzsprout to be featured on a future episode.

Video: How to Record a Podcast Remotely [The Ultimate Guide]
Guide: Download Sarah's Podcast Pitch Email Template

The truth is your favorite interview podcast is always looking for their next great guest.

So in this episode of Podcast Q&A, we'll break down what you need to do to get noticed and to land that next guest spot.

Record your podcasting question at Speakpipe.com/Buzzsprout to be featured on a future episode.

Video: How to land great podcast guests

Having an occasional or rotating cast of guests is a great way of adding value to your podcast. A great guest can bring a fresh perspective, new information, and captivating stories for your listeners.

And inviting a well-known or established guest on your podcast can help you grow your audience, especially if they share that episode of their audience.

But before you can benefit from having great podcast guests, you need to know where to find them.

So in this episode of Podcasting Q&A, you'll learn some of our favorite methods on how and where to find great guests for your podcast.

Resources We Mentioned:

• Matchmaker.fm
• PodMatch

Record your podcasting question at Speakpipe.com/Buzzsprout to be featured on a future episode.

Blog Post: Facebook Podcasts Updates

Marketing your podcast tends to be an afterthought if you are new to podcasting and if you're a seasoned podcaster it tends to be the chore of your passion project. 

However, marketing is an integral part of running a successful podcast and Social Media Marketing provides a crucial touch point with current listeners and gives you the opportunity to get in contact with new potential listeners to grow your audience.

So in today's episode, you'll learn all the ways you can market your podcast on Facebook.

Video: How to make your podcast one-of-a-kind

Whether you're just starting out or you're on your 50th episode, it can feel like a slog coming up with unique topics for your show.

So in this episode, we'll cover four easy strategies for generating new podcast topics.

Keyword Research Tools:

• Keywords Everywhere
• Answer the Public

Video: How to get more podcast ratings and reviews

Whether you're in the beginning stages of your podcast journey or if you've been podcasting for some time now, you might wonder, "What's the best way to measure the success of my podcast?"

Of course, success is defined differently for all of us. So in this episode, you'll learn some helpful metrics for gauging the success of your podcast.

Links We Mentioned:

• Buzzsprout's Global Stats
• Patreon

Blog Post: How to Record a Podcast on Zoom [Best Settings for 2022]
Video: How to Record a Podcast Remotely [The Ultimate Guide]

In today's world nearly 40% of podcasters are recording their interviews using Zoom. The only problem is that Zoom's default settings don't provide the high-quality audio that will podcasters are looking for.

So in this episode of Podcasting Q&A, we'll show you how to get the best audio quality from your Zoom recordings.

Video: How to choose the right podcast category

Many podcasters launch their show hoping to appeal to as many listeners as possible.

However, when you try to appeal to everyone, you often end up appealing to no one in particular.

So in today's episode, we're going to help you niche down so that you can get your podcast to connect to the right people.

Record your podcasting question at Speakpipe.com/Buzzsprout to be featured on a future episode.

Video: 7 Best Places to Get Free Music for Your Podcast

A good podcast intro is your first impression with new listeners and convinces them that your podcast is worth listening to.

So in today's episode, we'll cover the basic elements that every podcast intro needs so you can create the perfect intro for your show.

Record your podcasting question at Speakpipe.com/Buzzsprout to be featured on a future episode.

You've spent all this time creating a podcast, but now you want to make sure your show is being listened to.

In this episode of Podcasting Q&A, we discuss 5 ways to grow your podcast that don't cost money.

Resources from the episode:

• How to get into every podcast directory
• How to Get Booked on Podcasts
  • PodMatch.com
• How to Grow Your Podcast by Using TikTok
• Podcast Marketing: 100 podcasters share tactics they used to grow their shows
• How to Promote Your Podcast: 8 Simple Strategies
• Grow Your Podcast By Advertising in Podcast Apps

Have a question? Upload your podcasting question at Speakpipe.com/Buzzsprout to be featured on a future episode.

Visual soundbites, or audiograms, are a great way to promote your podcast on social media. But sometimes, it can be hard to choose the right clip or artwork to share.

In this episode of Podcasting Q&A, Jordan and Alban answer three questions from Charles, the host of JUMP...Success is Waiting!, about selecting what soundbites to share, what length they should be, and what kind of artwork works best for audiograms.

Links & Resources: 

• How to Create a Podcast Audiogram
• Get Free Images from Unsplash
• Get Free Images from Pexels

Have a question? Upload your podcasting question at Speakpipe.com/Buzzsprout to be featured on a future episode.

In this episode of Podcasting Q&A, Jordan and Krystal answer a question from Mel about how to keep your podcast interesting.

Special thanks to the Queen of Content, Krystal Proffitt, of the Proffitt Podcast and The Poddy Report for her amazing insight! You can also find her at www.krystalproffitt.com!

Links & Resources: 

• 75 Podcast Ideas and Topics to Explore in 2022
• 20 Unique Podcast Segment Ideas
• How to Take a Break from Your Podcast
• Podcraft: Growing Your Audience by Running a Listener Survey

Have a question?
Record & submit your question at podinbox.com/buzzsprout to be featured on a future episode!

Co-founder of Buzzsprout, Tom Rossi, joins this week's episode of Podcasting Q&A to explain how RSS Feeds work & different ways to create a Private RSS Feed. 

Thanks to Ryan for the question! You can check out Ryan's podcast, AntiArt Podcast at https://www.buzzsprout.com/1636159

Links & Resources: 

• 6 Best Ways to Create a Private Podcast

Have a question?
Record & submit your question at podinbox.com/buzzsprout to be featured on a future episode!

Buzzsprout Head of Marketing, Alban Brooke, joins this week's episode of Podcasting Q&A to give SEO (Search Engine Optimization) tips and how to optimize your podcast's discoverability with easy SEO techniques.

Thank you, Taylor for your question! You can check out Taylor's podcast, Eros Rising, at https://www.taylorjohnson.life/podcast/

Links & Resources: 

• PodNews: SEO data for Podcast Apps
   https://podnews.net/article/who-indexes-what
• Keyword Tools:
  https://ahrefs.com/keyword-generator
  https://keywordseverywhere.com/
  https://answerthepublic.com/

Have a question?
Record & submit your question at podinbox.com/buzzsprout to be featured on a future episode!

In this episode, Joshua asks, "Exactly how important is transcribing?"
 
Thanks for the question, Joshua! You can check out Joshua's podcast, 4th and Flex Fantasy Football Podcast here: https://4thandflexpodcast.buzzsprout.com/

What podcast transcripts do:

• make your content more accessible to listeners who are hard of hearing.
• boost SEO so search engines like Google can find your content.
• can heighten listener engagement, and
• make it easy for listeners to share quotes to social media.

Human-Transcription Services:

• Rev ($1.25/min and 99% accuracy),
• GoTranscript ($0.86/min and 99%+ accuracy), or
• hiring a freelance transcriber from Upwork ($10-$100; accuracy varies).

Automated Transcription Services: 

• Otter.ai
• Temi
• Rev
• Sonix.ai
• Descript
• Scribie
• Trint

Do-It-Yourself Transcription:
For examples of transcript formatting, check out Buzzcast & Podcasting Q&A transcripts. 

• https://pqa.buzzsprout.com
• https://buzzcast.buzzsprout.com

Buzzsprout Blogs & Videos:

How to Transcribe Your Podcast [2021]: https://www.buzzsprout.com/blog/transcribe-your-podcast
How to Add Transcripts to Your Podcast Episodes (Video): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N1fJ3K4vvq4

In this episode, Claire asks how to make the most of the QR Code she purchased for her podcast.
To listen to Claire's podcast, From the Horsebox, visit her website: https://fromthehorsebox.buzzsprout.com/

Have a question?
Record & submit your question at podinbox.com/buzzsprout to be featured on a future episode!

Want to create a podcast promo but not sure where to even start? In this episode, Buzzsprout Head of Marketing, Alban Brooke, joins Jordan to give tips that are sure to make your promo shine!

Things covered in this episode & links:

WRITE A SCRIPT
A podcast promo must be 12-40 seconds long, so be concise with information. 

5 Things to Include:

1. Podcast name
2. One-sentence description
3. Who the podcast is for
4. Why they should listen
5. Call to action

RECORD

• Record in a sound-treated environment
• Use a microphone 
• Record multiple takes and versions (practice makes perfect!)

EDIT & POLISH

Tips for editing vocals:

• Remove unwanted sounds or awkward pauses
• Consistent audio volume throughout
• If ad is too long, try speeding up vocals 1-5% to fit 

Sound effects and music:

https://www.buzzsprout.com/blog/free-music-for-podcasts

Now that you've finished your podcast promo, you'll want to get it in front of as many podcasters as possible. Head over to buzzsprout.com/ads to buy your first ad and get your promo in front of the right audience.

ALBAN'S TWITTER & CUNNINGHAM'S LAW
Twitter Post: https://twitter.com/AlbanBrooke/status/1536492873666990081?s=20&t=CsNY6YwSvRMgYkKr3dH5wg
Cunningham's Law: https://theoutline.com/post/8084/i-spent-a-week-being-wrong-online


*NOT A REAL BALLOON ANIMAL PODCAST IS NOT A REAL PODCAST...SORRY IF WE GOT YOUR HOPES UP.

In this episode, we give tips on how to create a simple yet effective pitch deck or one-pager to send to potential sponsors.

PITCH DECK
Here are some sites that have pitch deck templates:

• https://www.beautiful.ai
• https://www.canva.com
• https://slidebean.com
• https://www.google.com/slides

Slides to include in your pitch deck: 

1. TITLE: Podcast Artwork, Name, & Tagline
2. ABOUT: Short summary, podcast info & genre, mission, etc.
3. AUDIENCE/STATS: Downloads, listener demographics, and/or podcast industry stats
   Get podcast industry stats from: Buzzsprout Global Stats (https://www.buzzsprout.com/global_stats), Edison Research (https://www.edisonresearch.com/podcast-research), or Podcast Insights (https://www.podcastinsights.com)
4. PRICING: List cost per 1,000 downloads, bundle discounts, or just a flat-rate you feel comfortable with. 
5. TEAM/CONTACT INFO: Include people making the podcast happen, along with the podcast email, website, and socials.

ONE PAGER/SINGLE SHEET
Use a resume or newsletter template from any word processor to create a one pager to send to a sponsor. Be sure to include the five items listed for the pitch deck slides on the single sheet.

Remember to save your pitch deck or one pager so that information can be updated in the future as your podcast grows!


Have a question?
Record & submit your question at podinbox.com/buzzsprout to be featured on a future episode!

Podcasting Q&A is hosted by Jordan Blair @jordanpods

In this episode, we give tips on how to craft the perfect pitch email to grab the attention of a potential sponsor. 

TIPS FOR MAKING A GOOD FIRST IMPRESSION

1. Do your research: look into the brand to be sure they are a good fit & customize the pitch with information about the potential sponsor
2. Look the part: use a pitch deck or one-pager to show you mean business! Check out our previous episode about how to make a pitch deck or one-pager here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/328913/10857825
3. Be clear & confident: be concise, friendly, & confident in the way you write your email

CREATE AN EMAIL TEMPLATE
Creating a word document and saving it as a template to copy & paste into the body of an email will save lots of time!

A pitch email should have three basic things: 

• Podcast name and a brief description
• Why you think the sponsor would be a good fit
• Links to the podcast website & socials

Remember, be personable and friendly!

Things to avoid:

• Complaining about how hard it is to find sponsorships
• Including large attachments such as audio files or press kits 
• Asking for too many sponsorships upfront

WHERE TO FIND SPONSORS:

Cold Email

• Target emails to appropriate brands
• Listen to other podcasts in your niche to find brands interested in podcast advertising
• Try finding a local company with a digital storefront

Podcast Ad Marketplace

• Podcorn.com
• Gumball.fm

Agency or Network Representation

• Advertisecast.com
• Midroll
• True Native Media

Have a question?
Record & submit your question at podinbox.com/buzzsprout to be featured on a future episode!

Podcasting Q&A is hosted by Jordan Blair @jordanpods

In this episode, Kate Casey joins Jordan to share her strategies for getting celebs to promote their guest interviews on her podcast! 

Thank you, Marie, for your question! You can check out her podcast, Culture and Leadership Connections here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/202666

Guest Kate Casey
Host of Reality Life with Kate Casey, where she interviews the directors, producers, and stars of unscripted television. Follow Kate and her podcast here: linktr.ee/Katecasey

TIPS FOR GUEST PROMOTION:
1. MANAGE YOUR EXPECTATIONS OF GUEST MARKETING

Be mindful that guests are not a marketing team, and they might not share the interview at all! You can prepare the guest by asking them to please share the episode after it publishes, and make sure that the quality of the podcast is good to increase t.

2. COMPLIMENT THE GUEST TO BUILD TRUST & CONFIDENCE

Complimenting starts when you pitch them to come on the show! Tell them after the interview what an amazing job they did and be specific about things they said that were meaningful to you. People want to be appreciated, and a little encouragement goes a long way.

3. PROVIDE QUALITY MATERIALS TO THE GUEST THAT ARE EASY TO SHARE
Ask the guest for a picture of themselves they really like, because if the marketing materials sound great, look great, and are easy to share, the guest is more likely to use them.

Have a question?
Record & submit your question at podinbox.com/buzzsprout to be featured on a future episode!

Podcasting Q&A is hosted by Jordan Blair @jordanpods.

In this episode, Mary asks, "do you have any tips for audience engagement?"

Thank you, Mary, for your question! You can check out her podcast, Stop Drinking & Start Living here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/894589

Guest Gill Tietz
Host of Sober Powered Podcast, where she uses science, psychology, and compassion to help you understand why you struggle to moderate, why it's so hard to quit drinking, and how to develop the coping skills you need to stay sober. Check out her podcast here: https://www.soberpowered.com/

It can be tough to get your audience engaged and participating with your calls to action. Here are some quick tips to increase listener interaction!

1. Be Accessible
Make sure that listeners know where and how to reach you (Facebook Group, Email, Discord, etc.).

2. Be Specific
Tell your audience exactly what to contact you about. For example, instead of "Ask me anything!" try saying "What is something you've struggled with lately?" to generate more focused engagement.

3. Be Authentic
Audience members don't respond well to aggressive marketing tactics & can tell when someone is only trying to make a sale. Be genuine in your intentions to bring value to your listeners, and they will give value back. 

Have a question?
Record & submit your question at podinbox.com/buzzsprout to be featured on a future episode!

Podcasting Q&A is hosted by Jordan Blair @jordanpods.

In this episode, Buzzsprout support team members Gilon & Priscilla join Jordan to answer some of the most asked questions about podcast directories!

Questions answered in this episode:

• Does Buzzsprout submit my podcast to directories for me?
• What is required to get listed?
• How long does it take to get listed across all directories? 
• Why am I not listed yet in a specific directory yet? What can I do? 
• Once I am listed, how do new episodes show up? 
• What do I do if a new episode isn't showing? 

Have a question?
Record & submit your podcast question at podinbox.com/buzzsprout to be featured on a future episode!

Podcasting Q&A is hosted by Jordan Blair @jordanpods.

In this episode, Andrew asks, "what are the pros and cons of episodic artwork?"

Thank you, Andrew, for your question! You can check out his podcast, The Family Histories Podcast here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1712992

FIND ANGIE ONLINE:
Follow and listen to Podfluencer Society at: https://www.podfluencersociety.com
Connect with Angie online at: https://beacons.ai/theactualangie/socialmedia
More Podcast Resources: https://podfluencerbrands.com  

Having episodic artwork is an easy way to add uniqueness to your podcast, but is it worth all the extra time and effort to create?

PROS

• Adds uniqueness & elevated visualization
• Guest feature makes them feel special
• Re-use imagery for social promotion

CONS

• Careful to not have guest feature make them appear as the host of the podcast
• Difficult to update if there is a mass change in your podcast (i.e. name, branding, network)
• Time consuming & potentially expensive
• Smaller than main cover art in the feed

 
Have a question?
Record & submit your question at podinbox.com/buzzsprout to be featured on a future episode!

Podcasting Q&A is hosted by Jordan Blair @jordanpods.

NOTE: Since recording this episode, Angie Griffith's podcast was rebranded to the new title: Podfluencer Society. As such, some links mentioned may have changed. Visit the contact form at podfluencersociety.com if you cannot find what you are looking for. 

In this episode, Ross asks "where can I get free music & what is the best editing software?" for a podcasting project. Thanks for your question, Ross!

Guest Badr Milligan
Host of The Short Box Podcast
Twitter: @TheShortBoxJax
Check out his podcast here: https://www.theshortboxpodcast.com/

EDITING TIPS
Buzzsprout Podcast Editing Playlist

EDITING SOFTWARE
Audacity
Free, open source audio editing software compatible with Windows, macOS, Linux & more!
Audacity Help & How-to's: https://forum.audacityteam.org/

GarageBand
Free audio editing software compatible with macOS. Apple App store also has a mobile version.

FREE MUSIC
Buzzsprout Podcast Music Playlist

• YouTube Audio Library
• https://freemusicarchive.org
• https://pixabay.com
• https://incompetech.com

FREE SOUND EFFECTS

• https://freesound.org/

 
Have a question?
Record & submit your question at podinbox.com/buzzsprout to be featured on a future episode!

Podcasting Q&A is hosted by Jordan Blair @jordanpods.

Conferences are a great opportunity to learn new things, network with other podcasters and get inspired. In this episode, Arielle Nissenblatt joins Jordan to discuss the top podcast conferences to attend, no matter your location or budget!

Thanks, Patricia, for the question! You can listen to her show, Preppy Podcast here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1004692

Special thanks to our guest, Arielle Nissenblatt, for sharing her experiences and tips! Arielle is the founder of Earbuds Podcast Collective & Co-Host of Sounds Profitable. You can find Arielle on Twitter @arithisandthat and at https://www.ariellenissenblatt.com/

📆 View the podcast event calendar from PodNews! https://pod.events/

Conferences mentioned in this episode:

• Podcast Movement
• Podcast Movement Evolutions
• Blk Pod Festival
• On Air Fest
• Outlier Podcast Festival
• Podfest
• Podfest Origins
• ShePodcasts  
• Podthon
• Radiodays Europe
• Radiodays Asia
• Radio Days Africa
• Podcast Show London
• Africa Podcast Festival

Have a question?
Record & submit your question at podinbox.com/buzzsprout to be featured on a future episode!

Podcasting Q&A is hosted by Jordan Blair @jordanpods.

Getting a big-name guest, whether it be a celebrity or industry expert, can seem impossible to an indie podcaster. Our guest, Angie Griffith, shares her top tips for landing the guest interview of your dreams!

Thanks to Jenna Duddleston for the question! You can find her podcast, Bar Talk with Jenna, here: https://bleav.com/shows/bar-talk-with-jenna

FIND ANGIE ONLINE:
Follow and listen to Podfluencer Society at: https://www.podfluencersociety.com Connect with Angie online at: https://beacons.ai/theactualangie/socialmedia  
More Podcast Resources: https://podfluencerbrands.com  

Angie's "3 P's" for getting big-name guests on your show:

1. PITCHING: Prepare a one-sheet or pitch deck for your podcast; find a direct representative of the celebrity; have a clear and informative subject line; say why this guest is important to you; describe what your podcast is about; tell them why they would be a good fit for your podcast; say what qualifies you to speak on the subject; give the invitation and what you intend to discuss in the interview; attach one-sheet/pitch deck; follow-up.

2. PREPPING: Request assets in advance: the official bio, talking points, preferred promo photo; ask if there are any topics to avoid.

3. PREVIEWING: Give your guest the chance to review all of the assets before they go live: final edited interview; promotional graphics; show notes with links; where to find contact information.

Have a question?
Record & submit your question at podinbox.com/buzzsprout to be featured on a future episode!

Podcasting Q&A is hosted by Jordan Blair @jordanpods.

NOTE: Since recording this episode, Angie Griffith's podcast was rebranded to the new title: Podfluencer Society. As such, some links mentioned may have changed. Visit the contact form at podfluencersociety.com if you cannot find what you are looking for.

In this episode, Badr Milligan joins Jordan to brainstorm how to start a second podcast or leverage your current show's success when new podcast inspiration strikes!

Thanks for your question, Kelly! You can find Kelly's podcast, This vs. That: Wedding Decisions with Kelly McWilliams here: https://www.kellymcwilliams.com/blog/this-vs-that-wedding-podcast

Guest Badr Milligan
Host of The Short Box Podcast
Twitter: @TheShortBoxJax
Check out his podcast here: https://www.theshortboxpodcast.com/

 HOW TO ANNOUNCE NEW PODCAST CONTENT

• Announcement promo in dynamic content pre-roll
• Tell listeners in podcast intro/housekeeping segment
• Spread the word on social media

WEIGHING OPTIONS WHEN YOU HAVE A NEW PODCAST CONCEPT:

• Start a second podcast
• Integrate new bonus content into the current podcast
• Rebrand the original podcast
  • https://www.buzzsprout.com/blog/how-to-rebrand-a-podcast

Have a question?
Record & submit your question at podinbox.com/buzzsprout to be featured on a future episode!

Podcasting Q&A is hosted by Jordan Blair @jordanpods.

Launching a podcast is an exciting accomplishment! But it can be discouraging if you don't get the support you want from your family and friends. In this episode, Jordan and Angie Griffith talk honestly about family support and how to stay positive when the people in your inner circle don't cheer you on!

Thanks, Vineeta, for your question! Vineeta's podcast is launching soon! Follow Vineeta on Instagram to be the first to know! @vineeta_santoshi

FIND ANGIE ONLINE:
Follow and listen to Podfluencer Society at: https://www.podfluencersociety.com 
Connect with Angie online at: https://beacons.ai/theactualangie/socialmedia 
More Podcast Resources: https://podfluencerbrands.com  

Have a question?
Record & submit your question at podinbox.com/buzzsprout to be featured on a future episode!

Podcasting Q&A is hosted by Jordan Blair @jordanpods.

NOTE: Since recording this episode, Angie Griffith's podcast was rebranded to the new title: Podfluencer Society. As such, some links mentioned may have changed. Visit the contact form at podfluencersociety.com if you cannot find what you are looking for.

In this episode, Travis explains the pros and cons of uploading videos for your podcast on YouTube.

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

Are you thinking of changing the name of your podcast and taking it in a different direction? In this episode, Travis helps you decide if rebranding is right for you and how to do it without losing your subscribers.

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

It's really important that you have a single place that you can send literally anyone to learn more about your podcast and subscribe on the app of their choice. In this episode, Travis explains why your website is the "home base" of your podcast and introduces the new Buzzsprout podcast websites.

Purchase your podcast domain at one of these websites:

• HostGator
• Bluehost
• GoDaddy
• Google Domains

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

What's the best way to promote your podcast using social media? In this episode, Travis explains how to create content that people will feel inspired and motivated to share with their friends.

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

Podcasting is a lot of work and you'll reach a point where you just need to step away for a while. But how do you do that without losing the momentum that you've built? In this episode, I'll teach you how to use seasons so you take planned breaks from your podcast.

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

When should you pull the trigger and invest in some nicer podcast gear? Answer: when your current setup is holding you back.

Microphones mentioned in this episode:

• Rode Procaster
• Heil PR40
• Shure SM7B (+Cloudlifter)

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

What's the best method for uploading a new podcast episode into Buzzsprout? What fields should you spend more of your time on? In this episode, Travis dives into the most effective way to upload each episode.

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

Should you use a USB microphone or an XLR microphone? It depends... In this episode, Travis explains the pros and cons to each microphone and which one is best for you.

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

In this episode, Travis explains how to make your episodes irresistible to both subscribers and casual passers-by.

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

Where do you find high-quality music that you can use in your podcast without the risk of being sued? In this episode, Travis breaks down what "royalty-free" music is and where you can find it.

Websites mentioned:

• SoundCloud
• AudioJungle
• Soundstripe

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

Dynamic ads promise to make monetization easy for smaller creators, but is it the right choice for your podcast? In this episode, Travis breaks down the pros and cons of dynamic ads.

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

You want it to be "stupid easy" for someone to find and listen to your podcast. In this episode, Travis walks through the 5 directories every podcaster needs to submit their podcast to.

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

The only thing more exciting than launching your podcast is watching your download numbers grow over time. But if you're looking to your stats to validate that your podcast is a success, you'll be continually discouraged.

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

Auphonic is an online software tool that gives you pro-level audio processing with the click of a button.

Try out Auphonic for free.

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

The difference between a great interview and a mediocre one comes down to how comfortable your guest feels. In this episode, Travis shares 3 strategies to help your guests trust you with their stories.

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

With Headliner, you can create custom audiograms using your podcast audio and share them on social media. Did we mention it's free?

Check out Headliner.app and get started.

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

What are the most effective strategies for landing high-quality guests on your podcast? In this episode, Travis outlines three of his favorite strategies.

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

You don't have to spend hundreds of dollars to get professional sound quality, just grab our favorite microphone and you're good to go!

Check out our recommended microphones

• Audio-Technica ATR2100
• Samson Q2U (if outside the US and Canada)

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

In this episode, Travis breaks down the two online interview solutions that we recommend for podcasters.

Check out our recommended solutions

• Zoom
• Zencastr

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

When potential listeners are scrolling through their podcast app first impressions are everything! Make sure your podcast artwork isn't holding you back.

Get High-Quality Podcast Artwork

• Canva
• Fiverr
• 99 Designs

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Have you ever wanted to interact with the people that listen to your podcast? With Facebook groups, you can!

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Every January people take up new resolutions to improve their life in some way. Today we'll talk about three resolutions you can make that will grow your podcast and help you reach your goals.

Watch the Buzzsprout webinar - "10 Tips to Grow Your Podcast Audience"

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One of the smartest (and easiest) ways to come up with relevant episode topics is to figure out what dates, events, or holidays matter to your audience and create timely content around them.

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How do you get that professional studio sound quality in the convenience of your own home? Choose a recording space with lots of clutter.

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What's the best strategy for connecting with your audience and scaling your podcast?

In this episode, we'll give you three reasons why email beats social media every time.

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What should you include in your podcast episode description? How much information do you need to include? How do your show notes compliment your podcast episodes?

In this episode, we'll give you two things to avoid and two things to consider when putting together your show notes.

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Once you sign up for an email service provider, you need a strategy that will incentivize your audience to sign up for your list.

In this episode, we'll give you three lead magnet ideas you can create for your new podcast email newsletter.

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Apple recently sent an email to every podcaster on their platform letting them know about some changes that are coming in the near future.

In this episode, we'll break down the three big pieces of news and how it affects you as a podcaster.

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

The best place to get high-quality answers for your podcast-related questions is in an online podcast community.

In this episode, we'll break down four communities we believe every podcaster should be a part of.

Links to the podcast communities:

• Podcasters' Support Group
• Podcast Movement Community
• Podcasts We Listen To
• Buzzsprout Podcast Community

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Unless you know how to use proper mic technique, that new $400 microphone isn't going to do you any good.

In this episode, we'll teach you the four (plus one bonus) techniques you can utilize to get high-quality audio out of almost any microphone.

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What do you do if you find yourself not liking the guest you’ve asked to be on your show? How do you decide not to use the interview without offending the person?

In this episode, I'll teach you how to break the news in a way that minimizes conflict and protects your podcast.

Fill out this short questionnaire to submit a question or topic for a future episode.

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Mandee asked "How do you know when your new podcast is a success? How many listeners/downloads should I expect in my first week to know if I'm doing what I should be doing?"

In this episode, I'll ask you three questions to help you discover what success looks like for your podcast.

Fill out this short questionnaire to submit a question or topic for a future episode.

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This week we're kicking off a 5-week miniseries to help you grow your podcast and get more listeners.

In this episode, Travis tells you the 3 things you have to do to go from "amateur" to "pro" podcaster.

Stuff mentioned in this episode:

• 99designs
• Auphonic.com
• "The Complete Guide to Microphone Technique"
• "Acoustic Treatment for Podcasters"

Go to the "Resources" tab in your Buzzsprout dashboard to get 20% of your 99designs Design Competition.

Fill out this short questionnaire to submit a question or topic for a future episode.

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This is Week 2 of our 5-week miniseries focused on helping you grow your podcast and get more listeners.

In this episode, Travis teaches you how to reduce churn so when new people discover your podcast they become longterm listeners.

Fill out this short questionnaire to submit a question or topic for a future episode.

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This is Week 3 of a 5-week miniseries to help you grow your podcast and get more listeners.

In this episode, Travis teaches you the top, free marketing strategy that is working for podcasters right now.

Read How to Get Booked on Podcasts on the Buzzsprout blog.

Fill out this short questionnaire to submit a question or topic for a future episode.

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

This is Week 4 of a 5-week miniseries to help you grow your podcast and get more listeners.

In this episode, Travis teaches you why you should feature Facebook Group admins on your podcast.

Read Pat Flynn's full blog post at smartpassiveincome.com

Fill out this short questionnaire to submit a question or topic for a future episode.

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This is Week 5 of a 5-week miniseries to help you grow your podcast and get more listeners.

In this episode, Travis explains why Overcast ads are his go-to paid promotion strategy.

Learn more about running ads on Overcast by visiting overcast.fm/ads

Fill out this short questionnaire to submit a question or topic for a future episode.

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In this episode, Travis teaches you how to come up with the perfect name for your podcast.

Fill out this short questionnaire to submit a question or topic for a future episode.

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In this episode, you’ll learn what clipping is and how to keep it from destroying your podcast episodes.

Fill out this short questionnaire to submit a question or topic for a future episode.

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In this episode, you’ll learn how to level your audio so you don’t blow out your listeners' eardrums.

Fill out this short questionnaire to submit a question or topic for a future episode.

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In this episode, you’ll learn how to set your podcast episodes to the perfect volume using loudness normalization.

Loudness Target Guidelines:

• Mono Audio Files: -19 LUFS
• Stereo Audio Files: -16 LUFS

Check out our Auphonic guide for podcasters.

Fill out this short questionnaire to submit a question or topic for a future episode.

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

In this episode, Travis explains why you absolutely must record each person to their own track (and how to do it).

Gear we recommend for multitrack recording:

• Scarlett 2i2
• Zoom H4n Pro
• Zoom H6
• Rodecaster Pro

Read our Podcast Accessories Guide to find even more options.

Disclosure: Some of these product links are affiliate links, which means Buzzsprout might receive a small commission if you decide to purchase them.

Remote recording solutions:

• Zoom.us
• Squadcast
• Zencastr

Read our Long-Distance Interview blog to learn which solution is best for you.

Fill out this short questionnaire to submit a question or topic for a future episode.

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

In this episode, you'll learn how to decide which monetization strategy is best for your podcasting goals.

Check out our new blog podcast: How to Make Money Podcasting.

Fill out this short questionnaire to submit a question or topic for a future episode.

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

In this episode, you'll learn about the most well-known podcast monetization strategy - the host-read ad.

Check out our new blog podcast: How to Make Money Podcasting.

Fill out this short questionnaire to submit a question or topic for a future episode.

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

In this episode, you'll learn how to find and secure sponsors for your podcast.

Check out our new blog podcast: How to Make Money Podcasting.

Fill out this short questionnaire to submit a question or topic for a future episode.

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

In this episode, you’ll learn how to make money by promoting someone else’s products.

Learn more about the Buzzsprout Affiliate Marketplace in this recent blog post.

Check out our new blog podcast: How to Make Money Podcasting.

Fill out this short questionnaire to submit a question or topic for a future episode.

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

In this episode, you’ll learn how your listeners can directly support your podcast.

Check out our new blog podcast: How to Make Money Podcasting.

Fill out this short questionnaire to submit a question or topic for a future episode.

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

In this episode, you’ll learn how to create and sell information products that your listeners will love.

Online Course Platforms:

• Teachable
• Thinkific
• Podia

Pick up "Published" by Chandler Bolt to learn how to write your first book.

Check out our new blog podcast: How to Make Money Podcasting.

Fill out this short questionnaire to submit a question or topic for a future episode.

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

In this episode, you’ll learn how to create and sell podcast merch without turning your garage into a warehouse.

Here's a helpful guide that explains how Print-On-Demand services work - https://www.printful.com/how-printful-works/on-demand-drop-shipping

Check out Printful, our recommended POD solution - https://www.printful.com/

Check out our new blog podcast: How to Make Money Podcasting.

Fill out this short questionnaire to submit a question or topic for a future episode.

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

In this episode, you’ll learn how to package your knowledge and expertise into a coaching program or consulting service

Check out our new blog podcast: How to Make Money Podcasting.

Fill out this short questionnaire to submit a question or topic for a future episode.

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

Today on 5 Minute Mondays, you’ll learn about dynamic ad insertion and how it can (potentially) help your podcast.

Platforms that offer DAI:

• Art19
• Midroll
• Megaphone

Check out our new blog podcast: How to Make Money Podcasting.

Fill out this short questionnaire to submit a question or topic for a future episode.

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

Today on 5 Minute Mondays, we’ll cover the pros and cons of joining a podcast network.

Fill out this short questionnaire to submit a question or topic for a future episode.

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

Today on 5 Minute Mondays, we’ll discuss whether or not you should script your podcast episodes.

Fill out this short questionnaire to submit a question or topic for a future episode.

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

Today on 5 Minute Mondays, we’ll cover five podcast segments you can insert into future podcast episodes.

Check out our blog post with 18 Unique Podcast Segment Ideas.

Fill out this short questionnaire to submit a question or topic for a future episode.

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

Today on 5 Minute Mondays, you'll learn approximately how long it SHOULD be taking you to record, edit, and upload a podcast episode.

Fill out this short questionnaire to submit a question or topic for a future episode.

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

Today on 5 Minute Mondays, we'll cover five strategies that will help you stay motivated and make 2020 the best year ever for your podcast.

Fill out this short questionnaire to submit a question or topic for a future episode.

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

Today on 5 Minute Mondays, we’ll dive into a relatively untapped marketing strategy that could pay big dividends for your podcast.

Learn more about how to do a podcast episode swap.

Fill out this short questionnaire to submit a question or topic for a future episode.

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Today on 5 Minute Mondays, we’ll explain when it’s finally time to splurge on some pro audio editing software.

Software we recommend:

• Hindenburg Journalist Pro
• Adobe Audition
• Logic Pro X

Fill out this short questionnaire to submit a question or topic for a future episode.

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

Today on 5 Minute Mondays, you’ll learn how to properly incorporate music into your podcast episodes.

Check out our blog featuring 9 places to get free music for your podcast.

Places to purchase royalty-free music:

• Audio Jungle
• Soundstripe

Fill out this short questionnaire to submit a question or topic for a future episode.

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

Today on 5 Minute Mondays, you’ll learn how to tell if your podcast is growing.

Check out our in-depth tutorial on the Buzzsprout Advanced Podcast Statistics on YouTube.

Fill out this short questionnaire to submit a question or topic for a future episode.

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

Today on 5 Minute Mondays, you’ll learn how to tell which apps your listeners prefer and why that’s important.

Check out our in-depth tutorial on the Buzzsprout Advanced Podcast Statistics on YouTube and our Overcast Ads Video.

Fill out this short questionnaire to submit a question or topic for a future episode.

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

Today on 5 Minute Mondays, you’ll learn how to use your Listener Locations data to tailor your podcast for your audience.

Check out our in-depth tutorial on the Buzzsprout Advanced Podcast Statistics on YouTube.

Fill out this short questionnaire to submit a question or topic for a future episode.

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

Today on 5 Minute Mondays, you’ll learn how to incorporate multiple episode formats into a single podcast.

Fill out this short questionnaire to submit a question or topic for a future episode.

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

Today on 5 Minute Mondays, I’ll discuss whether or not it makes sense to translate your podcast to grow your audience.

Fill out this short questionnaire to submit a question or topic for a future episode.

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

Today on 5 Minute Mondays, you’ll learn how to nail your remote interview recordings.

Watch our Auphonic Tutorial for Podcasters to see if it will help your workflow.

If you're looking for a plugin to help remove reverb in your recordings, consider the ERA 4 Reverb Remover.

Fill out this short questionnaire to submit a question or topic for a future episode.

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

Today on 5 Minute Mondays, you'll learn why an online course may be the key to your podcast's next breakthrough.

Courses we recommend:

• Gimlet Academy
• How to Start a Podcast
• Amp'd Up Podcasting
• Podcast Production Course

Fill out this short questionnaire to submit a question or topic for a future episode.

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

Today on 5 Minute Mondays, we'll cover the pros and cons of using Podcorn to monetize your podcast.

Learn more about Podcorn for podcasters.

Fill out this short questionnaire to submit a question or topic for a future episode.

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

Today on 5 Minute Mondays, we’ll talk about the impact that the coronavirus is having on podcast listening around the world.

Record your podcasting question at Speakpipe.com/Buzzsprout to be featured on a future episode.

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

Today on 5 Minute Mondays, you'll learn how to record and edit podcast episodes using just your phone.

Record your podcasting question at Speakpipe.com/Buzzsprout to be featured on a future episode.

Microphones:

• RODE smartLav+ Kit for iPhones
• RODE smartLav+ Microphone
• RODE SC6 (Android users)
• Movo Podcast Interview Microphone
• Headphone to Lightning Dongle
• Headphone to USB-C Dongle

Software:

• GarageBand (iPhone, iPad)
• Recording Studio Light (Android)

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

Today on 5 Minute Mondays, you'll learn whether you should rebrand your podcast or start a new one.

Record your podcasting question at Speakpipe.com/Buzzsprout to be featured on a future episode.

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.

Today on 5 Minute Mondays, you'll learn all the details about the show that’s replacing this one, Podcasting Q&A.

Record your podcasting question at Speakpipe.com/Buzzsprout to be featured on a future episode.

Need some help with your podcast? Join the Buzzsprout Podcast Community on Facebook to get the help you need from podcasters just like you.