Podcast Rockstars

Kate Astrakhan is the owner of Podcast Network Solutions, a company that provides post-production and podcast support services to podcasters and networks alike. She is a technical podcast producer who fell in love with podcasting after working in the radio and broadcasting industry for more than 30 years. Kate delivers stunning sound quality for more than 1,300 episodes each month.   Kate joins me today to explain what podcast networks are and the pros and cons of joining a network. She dives into the factors to consider before joining a network and the benefits and drawbacks of joining a network that uses Dynamic Ad Placement. She also explains why she encourages podcasters to launch their own podcast network and when you should consider starting your own network to monetize your show.         “With networks, they need shows more than you need them.” - Kate Astrakhan     This week on Podcast Rockstars: What podcast networks are and what they offer What Dynamic Ad Placement is and why you should be mindful of networks who do this The red flags to watch out for when conversing with network representatives Who reaches out first - the network or the podcaster When to approach advertiser supported podcast networks How Dynamic Advertising works and good examples of this kind of advertising Strategies for starting your own network Factors to think about to make your network different from the rest out there Reasons why entrepreneurs should not join a network The end goal to keep in mind about your podcast   Rockstar Resources: Effective Podcast Launch Strategies with Kate Astrakhan   Connect with Kate Astrakhan: Podcast Network Solutions Website Facebook Twitter Instagram       Become a Podcast Rockstar!   Thanks for tuning into Podcast Rockstars - the show that helps business leaders become podcast legends. If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn and share your favorite episodes! Join our exclusive Podcast Rockstars Facebook group to connect with other podcast legends and legends-in-the-making to ask your most pressing questions and tell us what guests you’d love to hear on the show! And don’t forget to join our mailing list to learn what it takes to create great show notes for your podcast as well as receive updates on our latest episodes, blog posts, and other rockin’ content!

Many podcasters get the task of show notes creation done and over with either by using their episode transcripts or including a list of bullet points as their show notes. Many are not aware of the great value that well-written show notes provide and how these impact their show and their listeners. So, how does writing engaging show notes help you, your listeners, and your overall impact on Google search?   Today, I share some of the best practices when writing your show notes. I discuss the show-notes writing no-nos as well as the common mistakes other podcasters make when creating their show notes. I also share how to make it easy and convenient for your audience to look into necessary information and announcements from your show.       "Podcast listeners don’t want to “jump through hoops” to connect with your guest or use a product or service you are recommending in your episode."     This week on Podcast Rockstars: How long the show notes copy should be How your show notes word count affect your ranking on Google The significance of including a short guest biography for interview episodes Why it’s a no-no to tell your audience to “just Google” a resource mentioned on your show       Become a Podcast Rockstar!   Thanks for tuning into Podcast Rockstars - the show that helps business leaders become podcast legends. If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn and share your favorite episodes! Join our exclusive Podcast Rockstars Facebook group to connect with other podcast legends and legends-in-the-making to ask your most pressing questions and tell us what guests you’d love to hear on the show! And don’t forget to join our mailing list to learn what it takes to create great show notes for your podcast as well as receive updates on our latest episodes, blog posts, and other rockin’ content!

Toby Goodman is the owner and marketing director of Listen Better Marketing, where he helps entrepreneurs and podcasters be heard through revolutionary marketing that speaks to their market. He has worked in 25 countries and founded a global events company where he manages teams in different parts of the world. A professional drummer for 20 years, Toby works three days each week from his London studio and is currently focused on helping his clients thrive, playing fantastic music, and being a great dad.   Today, Toby shares the crucial roles that your website and email marketing play in your podcast marketing strategy. He explains why you should make sure that your website is aligned and consistent with your podcast and the message you convey to your audience. Toby also shares the key to turning podcast listeners and email subscribers into loyal clients and paying customers.       “You need a machine between the podcast and the transaction.” - Toby Goodman     This week on Podcast Rockstars: How Toby got started in podcasting The one thing that podcasts don’t give you Why the podcast should be the central pillar of your content and marketing efforts What are the three “locations” of podcast and email marketing How the physical location affects the marketing for podcasters and the kind of podcast your audience listens to Why the numbers of your downloads and listeners shouldn’t be the metrics you’re concerned about The only two metrics you need to consider How to make your listeners stay with you through email How often you should email your subscribers How to make people find time for you The one thing you should be focused on when recording a podcast Actionable tips for entrepreneurs and podcasters     Rockstar Resources: How to be Heard Book by Julian Treasure Five-Bullet Friday by Tim Harris The One Thing Book by Gary Keller     Connect with Toby Goodman: Listen Better Marketing Website       Become a Podcast Rockstar!   Thanks for tuning into Podcast Rockstars - the show that helps business leaders become podcast legends. If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn and share your favorite episodes! Join our exclusive Podcast Rockstars Facebook group to connect with other podcast legends and legends-in-the-making to ask your most pressing questions and tell us what guests you’d love to hear on the show! And don’t forget to join our mailing list to learn what it takes to create great show notes for your podcast as well as receive updates on our latest episodes, blog posts, and other rockin’ content!

  Think about the first podcast you ever listened to - how were you lured in to listen to that podcast episode? What was your first point of contact? The podcast title. Whether you’re hosting your podcast or looking forward to launching one, remember this short trip down memory lane and ponder on whether your podcast titles create a little - or much - impact on your show and, especially, on Google.   Today, I share four actionable tips to help you create excellent titles for your podcast episodes. I dive into each item in detail to help you have a better perspective of how these ideas convert new listeners into engaged followers. I also share how the implementation of these steps affect your Google ranking as well as your guest’s credibility.       “The title you create for your podcast episodes are extremely important for your listeners as well as search engines.”     This week on Podcast Rockstars: Factors to consider when creating podcast titles The first place listeners look to determine whether they’d be interested in listening to your podcast How putting irrelevant keywords on your title affect your Google ranking What kind of keywords you should include in the title Why you should add the name of your guest to your episode titles         Become a Podcast Rockstar!   Thanks for tuning into Podcast Rockstars - the show that helps business leaders become podcast legends. If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn and share your favorite episodes! Join our exclusive Podcast Rockstars Facebook group to connect with other podcast legends and legends-in-the-making to ask your most pressing questions and tell us what guests you’d love to hear on the show! And don’t forget to join our mailing list to learn what it takes to create great show notes for your podcast as well as receive updates on our latest episodes, blog posts, and other rockin’ content!

Ted and Arlene Taveras are the Co-Presidents of Insurance Licensing Services of America (ILSA),  an insurance licensing and compliance firm they established in 1997. Additionally, they are the co-hosts of the Spot On Insurance podcast. Through this platform, this fantastic husband-and-wife tag team offers help and support concerning the intricacies of insurance regulatory compliance.   Ted has over 20 years of experience with helping insurance professionals understand the complexities of insurance regulatory compliance. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in English and Journalism and is an active member of the Executive Board for Workforce Solutions for the Heart of Texas. Arleen holds an Associates degree in Risk Management from St. John’s University as well as a degree in Economics from New Jersey City University.   Ted and Arleen are what I would call LinkedIn Rockstars. They join me today to share the ways they use LinkedIn to promote their show. They dive into the ingenious strategies they use to grow their audience and expand their reach. Ted and Arleen also share some nuggets of wisdom that they learned and applied from John Lee Dumas and Kate Erickson, two podcasting pros who cater to an audience of a million listeners each month.       “If you want people to engage with you, you have got to go out there and engage with them." - Ted Taveras     This week on Podcast Rockstars: How Ted and Arleen started their podcast Why their podcast evolved from serving insurance agencies and companies to serving insurance professionals in general Why Ted felt the need to create a new podcast segment The hack they use to get more people to like their LinkedIn page and subscribe to the podcast How they connect with their network that guarantees engagement How they develop interesting long-form articles to promote their podcast guests on LinkedIn Which approach gets more engagement - a group page or individual messaging How to get others interested in looking at your profile and becoming a part of your community A time-saving app that helps them create quick and more-than-usual greetings What triggered them to relaunch their podcast A technique on how to get the company staff to subscribe to the podcast through LinkedIn A new LinkedIn tool that allows you to connect with people at conferences     Rockstar Resources: TextExpander Podcasters Paradise Spot on Insurance #74: Grow Your Agency with LinkedIn     Connect with Ted & Arleen Taveras: Spot on Insurance Website Facebook LinkedIn Instagram       Become a Podcast Rockstar!   Thanks for tuning into Podcast Rockstars - the show that helps business leaders become podcast legends. If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn and share your favorite episodes! Join our exclusive Podcast Rockstars Facebook group to connect with other podcast legends and legends-in-the-making to ask your most pressing questions and tell us what guests you’d love to hear on the show! And don’t forget to join our mailing list to learn what it takes to create great show notes for your podcast as well as receive updates on our latest episodes, blog posts, and other rockin’ content!

What’s the best day to release your podcast episodes? How do you determine your release schedule? These are common questions among podcasters - especially new creators. While we all want our podcasts to be successful, determining the perfect day to release your episodes can be quite challenging.   Today, I share the strategy I used to choose which day of the week to release my podcast episodes and why I don’t believe there is a “perfect” release day - despite what statistics might show. I explain the difference between a “popular” release day versus the perfect release day and why popularity shouldn’t be a factor when considering which days to release your episodes. I also discuss the factors you should consider while deciding which day of the week to release your content.       “Podcasting is an evergreen content marketing strategy - so the day you release your episode doesn’t matter as much as the content you produce.”     This week on Podcast Rockstars: The popular release days in the podcasting industry The air-day pattern I found among our podcast clients Why the “best day” is not necessarily the best for your show How to determine which day would be perfect to release your episodes The potential impact of releasing your episode on a popular day of the week         Become a Podcast Rockstar!   Thanks for tuning into Podcast Rockstars - the show that helps business leaders become podcast legends. If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn and share your favorite episodes! Join our exclusive Podcast Rockstars Facebook group to connect with other podcast legends and legends-in-the-making to ask your most pressing questions and tell us what guests you’d love to hear on the show! And don’t forget to join our mailing list to learn what it takes to create great show notes for your podcast as well as receive updates on our latest episodes, blog posts, and other rockin’ content!

Naketa Thigpen, a licensed clinical social worker, is the president and CEO of Thigpro Balance and Relationship Management Institute and considered to be the number one Balance & Relationship Advisor across the globe. Aside from being an empowerment speaker, Naketa is also the host of the podcast for ambitious women and a few brave men called Balance Boldly. She is also the author of the upcoming book Selfish: Permission to Pause, Live, Love & Laugh Your Way to Joy. With the mission to help others enjoy life as they create balance and joy, Naketa will be reaching out to more audiences as she launches her new show Kitchen Conversations #Unfiltered in the Spring of 2019. Naketa joins me today to share how she balances her time - both personally and professionally - boldly and unapologetically. She explains what a seasonal show is and the different strategies she uses to keep her audience engaged and interested between seasons. Naketa also shares why she’s not worried about the drop in live plays she experiences between seasons as well as how her podcast helps expand her personal and professional network while achieving various goals.   “They don't know if it's going to be week six or week eight, but my listeners trust that I'm going to show up. And they're coming and listening and learning and gathering which is all that I ever wanted.” - Naketa Thigpen     This week on Podcast Rockstars: The story of how her podcast came to be How she takes care of herself so she can be available to everyone else How she and her team produce seasonal shows and the average number of episodes she releases per season How her audience reacted when she didn’t give a ‘heads-up’ the first time she ended a season The various ways she saved money because of her show How she made the transition from Balance Beam to Balance Boldly The strategy she uses to avoid providing identical content to her email list and social media followers Why she doesn’t maintain a Facebook Group How her podcast has, directly and indirectly, impacted her business growth How her show allowed her to set healthy boundaries, personally and in her business

As much as we want to be consistent in releasing our podcast content, the reality is that there are times when our situation prevents us from doing so. It may be because of a health issue, a personal concern, or an unexpected transition in the business. If you find yourself in this tight situation, you should consider releasing an encore episode. Today, I share what encore episodes are and why podcasters utilize them. I discuss the factors you should consider when choosing encore episodes to re-release, such as the type of episode and the ‘age’ of your content. I also share how to use encore episodes as an effective content strategy that will affect the trajectory and success of your business, brand, and show.     “Releasing an encore episode is often better than skipping a week in your normal publishing schedule.”     This week on Podcast Rockstars: Why podcasters republish older episodes Why consistency is crucial for your show’s overall success What it means to have a ‘seasonal’ show What evergreen content is and why having this is crucial to your show How encore episodes affect downloads and listenership     Become a Podcast Rockstar!   Thanks for tuning into Podcast Rockstars - the show that helps business leaders become podcast legends. If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn and share your favorite episodes!   Join our exclusive Podcast Rockstars Facebook group to connect with other podcast legends and legends-in-the-making to ask your most pressing questions and tell us what guests you’d love to hear on the show!   And don’t forget to join our mailing list to learn what it takes to create great show notes for your podcast as well as receive updates on our latest episodes, blog posts, and other rockin’ content!

Amy Feierman is the co-host of The Amazon Files Podcast alongside her business partner Kristin Ostrander. Together, Amy and Kristin teach the Wholesale Bundle System where they equip Amazon sellers on how to find and create their custom wholesale bundle. Aside from being a podcaster, Amy is also an entrepreneur who has been selling online for a decade.   Amy joins me today to share how she and her business partner got more of their YouTube viewers to listen to their podcast. She discusses how they market from one platform to another as well as the importance of putting all their links - podcast and YouTube - on one page. She also shares how launching the podcast has impacted their business and why you shouldn’t start a podcast if your goal is to generate revenue.       “It’s really understanding what the audience wants to hear in a video versus what they want to hear on a podcast.” - Amy Feierman     This week on Podcast Rockstars: The turning point that led Amy to start a podcast The avenue that allows Amy and her co-host to interact with their audience The things they leave in the video but not in the audio The different expectations between doing something live versus pre-recorded audio The reason their podcast introduction is less than three minutes Why video content is more challenging than audio Tips on how to get comfortable in front of the mic or the camera How to overcome the hurdle of thinking you’re not good at something The type of visual content YouTube viewers prefer A tip to those who are putting podcasting off because they are afraid A message to those who are putting podcasting off because ‘they don't have time’     Connect with Amy Feierman: Mommy Income Website The Amazon Files Podcast Amy Feierman on Facebook       Become a Podcast Rockstar!   Thanks for tuning into Podcast Rockstars - the show that helps business leaders become podcast legends. If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn and share your favorite episodes!   Join our exclusive Podcast Rockstars Facebook group to connect with other podcast legends and legends-in-the-making to ask your most pressing questions and tell us what guests you’d love to hear on the show!   And don’t forget to join our mailing list to learn what it takes to create great show notes for your podcast as well as receive updates on our latest episodes, blog posts, and other rockin’ content!

Xavi Umeh is the founder of Brandedpod, a marketing company that specializes in helping startups get new clients fast using their own podcast. His business is founded on his belief that podcasting is the sure-fire way of building and growing your brand online. Xavi also offers excellent value to his audience through the free content he creates about how to get clients through podcasting on his YouTube Channel.   Xavi joins me today to share his six-step process for turning podcast listeners into new clients. He discusses the necessary factors you need to identify as you plan your show as well as how to design your podcast to attract ideal buyers and potential business partners. He also shares how to assemble an audience for a show that has not yet launched and the steps to take to optimize and further monetize your show.       “Your podcast should be a resource for your target buyer.” - Xavi Umeh     This week on Podcast Rockstars: How Xavi got started as a podcast producer What his podcast Brandedpod is about How he came up with his six-step strategy for turning podcast listeners into new clients The most important part of the podcast The sole purpose of your podcast to your customers Two problems your target market has and the role you play in it The two stages of launching your show A marketing strategy he uses to determine potential clients Why indirect marketing is faster and easier A five-step approach to making your podcast guest a prospective referral partner Why one referral partner is worth a lot more than one customer What optimization is and the things you can optimize in your business     Connect with Xavi Umeh: Brandedpod Website Facebook YouTube Special Offer! Get help with planning your podcast - for free! Email: xavi@brandedpod.com and mention Podcast Rockstars to receive free advice on how you should plan your podcast to attract new clients.       Become a Podcast Rockstar!   Thanks for tuning into Podcast Rockstars - the show that helps business leaders become podcast legends. If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Google Play Music and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn and share your favorite episodes!   Join our exclusive Podcast Rockstars Facebook group to connect with other podcast legends and legends-in-the-making to ask your most pressing questions and tell us what guests you’d love to hear on the show!   And don’t forget to join our mailing list to learn what it takes to create great show notes for your podcast as well as receive updates on our latest episodes, blog posts, and other rockin’ content!

LinkedIn is a popular social platform known to cater to entrepreneurs, business owners, and professionals. For this reason, it would be a no-brainer to promote any business - or in this case, your business-related podcast - on the most extensive professional social platform.   Sadly, many podcasters fail to notice the value of promoting their shows on this relevant social platform.   Today, I share five easy ways to promote your podcast on LinkedIn without sounding aggressive. I explain the first step to building awareness for your show on LinkedIn as well as the different LinkedIn pages you can utilize to further your marketing efforts. I also share the different apps you can use that can help you save time and effort when posting on LinkedIn as well as how to take your efforts to the next level.     “LinkedIn is a little-used promotion gem that can be a goldmine for new listeners, new guests, and even new potential clients.”     This week on Podcast Rockstars: Why you should promote your podcast on LinkedIn How often you should update your LinkedIn status How to use LinkedIn Publisher to promote your podcast episodes How to embed your podcast player on LinkedIn The difference between a LinkedIn Company Page and Showcase Page How to hyperfocus your marketing efforts on LinkedIn     Rockstar Resources: My LinkedIn Profile Hootsuite Co-Schedule Buffer       Become a Podcast Rockstar!   Thanks for tuning into Podcast Rockstars - the show that helps business leaders become podcast legends. If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn and share your favorite episodes!   Join our exclusive Podcast Rockstars Facebook group to connect with other podcast legends and legends-in-the-making to ask your most pressing questions and tell us what guests you’d love to hear on the show!   And don’t forget to join our mailing list to learn what it takes to create great show notes for your podcast as well as receive updates on our latest episodes, blog posts, and other rockin’ content!

Just like carpenters who need different tools for different purposes, podcasters also need various tools in their toolbox to promote their episodes. Some are fans of image quotes, while others like creating YouTube videos. One of the popular tools podcasters use today is an audiogram.   Today, I share three powerful tools you can use to repurpose your podcast episodes by creating fantastic audiograms for your social media. I compare these programs and discuss what makes each tool unique and worthy of adding to your podcast arsenal. I also share the features included in each of the tool’s free packages as well as the added features for the paid plans.       “There are many moving parts when it comes to launching and producing a podcast.”     This week on Podcast Rockstars: Two different programs I tried to create audiograms How Headliner allows you to add animations and captions to your podcast audiograms Using Wavve to create verticle audiograms for Instagram Stories The difference between the free Wavve plan and the paid plan The difference between Audiogram and Wavve     Rockstar Resources: Headliner Wavve Audiogram       Become a Podcast Rockstar!   Thanks for tuning into Podcast Rockstars - the show that helps business leaders become podcast legends. If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn and share your favorite episodes!   Join our exclusive Podcast Rockstars Facebook group to connect with other podcast legends and legends-in-the-making to ask your most pressing questions and tell us what guests you’d love to hear on the show!   And don’t forget to join our mailing list to learn what it takes to create great show notes for your podcast as well as receive updates on our latest episodes, blog posts, and other rockin’ content!  

Here’s a million-dollar question asked by podcasters: “Why can’t I just write the whole podcast episode as a long blog post?”   Writing the whole episode of your podcast can be detrimental to your show. But don’t worry because there are other ways you can use and repurpose the content of your podcast.   Today, I share how you can be creative in repurposing your podcast episodes into long-form blog post articles. I explain the difference between a blog and a podcast show note. I also emphasize why the short and skim-able show notes work better for your audience over the time-consuming long-form blog posts.       “Podcasters need to keep in mind the type of audience they are trying to target.”     This week on Podcast Rockstars: Our initial experiment with repurposing podcast episodes into long-form blog posts Why podcasters need to keep in mind the type of audience they are trying to target How many Americans today own a smartphone and smart speaker, according to a recent study by Edison Research Why you should refrain from turning your podcast into a long-form blog post How to be creative when repurposing content   Resource Mentioned: Infinite Dial 2019 (PDF) - Edison Research Study Music Oomph Infographic - Podcast Statistics (2019) Lidwell Writing Services Blog       Become a Podcast Rockstar!   Thanks for tuning into Podcast Rockstars - the show that helps business leaders become podcast legends. If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn and share your favorite episodes!   Join our exclusive Podcast Rockstars Facebook group to connect with other podcast legends and legends-in-the-making to ask your most pressing questions and tell us what guests you’d love to hear on the show!   And don’t forget to join our mailing list to learn what it takes to create great show notes for your podcast as well as receive updates on our latest episodes, blog posts, and other rockin’ content!

Budget planning is a crucial part of any business regardless of the industry. While each aspect in your business is vital for it to thrive, marketing your brand and offerings plays a critical role in acquiring clients and referrals. Having a podcast in your marketing toolbox is undoubtedly an advantage over your competitors.   Today, I share the things you should consider when budgeting your finances and allotting a budget for your podcast. I identify the tools and equipment you need to start a podcast. I also share how you can create great shows and continue to be in your zone of genius despite the nitty-gritty process of producing quality episodes.       “To have high-quality shows, you need to invest more than in the equipment.”     This week on Podcast Rockstars: Why you need a well-thought-out plan on how much you’re willing to spend on your podcast Other investments you should consider to produce a high-quality show How to choose the right and best-priced tools and outsourced services for your podcast The number of people you need to create a good podcast       Become a Podcast Rockstar!   Thanks for tuning into Podcast Rockstars - the show that helps business leaders become podcast legends. If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn and share your favorite episodes!   Join our exclusive Podcast Rockstars Facebook group to connect with other podcast legends and legends-in-the-making to ask your most pressing questions and tell us what guests you’d love to hear on the show!   And don’t forget to join our mailing list to learn what it takes to create great show notes for your podcast as well as receive updates on our latest episodes, blog posts, and other rockin’ content!    

As an entrepreneur or a business leader, then you know how critical it is to follow up with the people you connect with as well as new potential clients. The same is true for your podcast guests. Believe it or not, following up with your podcast guest is a crucial element that can significantly affect your show.   Today, I share why you should always follow up with the guests you feature, and interview on your podcast. I explain why it’s important to ask your guests to share their interview with their social media followers and email subscribers and how it can impact not only your episode downloads but also help your guest connect with their audience on a different level. I also discuss a simple strategy you can use to motivate your guests to share their episodes with their network.       “When you’re following up with your guest, it’s okay to ask them to help you promote your episode.”     This week on Podcast Rockstars: Why it’s important to follow up with your guests One of the best ways to build the support of your audience Why getting great guests on your show is only half the battle What to do if you’re struggling to find guests on your show How to let your guests know the episode is live An effective way to build and maintain a relationship with your podcast guest How the guests on your show can stay top of mind with their audience Crucial elements to include in your follow-up email How to make it super easy for your guests to share your episode     Rockstar Resource: Episode 8: 4 Creative Strategies to Find New Guests for Your Podcast     Grab Your FREE Podcast Guest Follow-Up Email Template!   Not sure what to include in the follow-up email to your podcast guests? No worries! Grab our free Podcast Guest Follow-Up Email Template and make the process of following up with your amazing guest's easy peasy.   This free template is designed to help you simplify the process of following up with your rockstar podcast guests and encourage them to share their episodes with their social media followers and email subscribers.   So if you’re ready to truly leverage the power of interviewing rockstar podcast guests - and ready to reap the reward when they share their episode - click here to grab your free template!       Become a Podcast Rockstar!   Thanks for tuning into Podcast Rockstars - the show that helps business leaders become podcast legends. If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn and share your favorite episodes!   Join our exclusive Podcast Rockstars Facebook group to connect with other podcast legends and legends-in-the-making to ask your most pressing questions and tell us what guests you’d love to hear on the show!   And don’t forget to join our mailing list to learn what it takes to create great show notes for your podcast as well as receive updates on our latest episodes, blog posts, and other rockin’ content!

Yann Ilunga is a podcasting consultant who helps entrepreneurs use the podcasting medium to attract prospective clients, increase their exposure, and ultimately, increase their sales. He is a systems strategist, an international speaker, and the founder of the largest online podcasting conference - the Podcast Success Summit. He has been coined a ‘Unicorn-Level Digital Marketing Expert’ by Inc. Magazine. In addition to helping podcasters improve their podcast systems and achieve their goals, he is also the host of four podcasts which include The Podcaster Lab, 360 Entrepreneur Podcast, and The Jazz Spotlight Podcast as well as the facilitator of Podcast Growth Mindset - the ‘Podcast Community to Join’ as mentioned by Forbes.   Yann joins me today to share strategies entrepreneurs can use to improve their interviewing skills. He discusses what hosts should do to prepare for a podcast interview and why it’s important to prepare your guests for their upcoming interview. He shares tips for helping new podcast guests feel comfortable behind the mic before and during the interview, strategies to encourage your guests to share their episodes, and an interesting tip on tagging your guest in your social media posts on publishing day.  He also shares strategies new podcast guests should use to prepare for their upcoming guest appearance as well as actionable tips for entrepreneurs that are considering podcasting as a marketing strategy.        "Guests come and go - but you, as the host, are the common denominator." - Yann Ilunga     This week on Podcast Rockstars: How Yann stumbled in the podcasting space How his podcast about podcasting is different from others Why he chose to do the post-production editing work How to ‘share the spotlight’ with your guests Why it’s important to leave room for “the unexpected” in your podcast interviews Why spontaneity isn’t always the best approach for interviewing podcast guests How to make your guest comfortable before hitting the record button How to increase the chances of listeners taking action after listening to your interview How to make it easy for your guests to share the episode with their network and social media followers Best practices for tagging your guest in your social media posts What aspiring podcasters should consider before starting a podcast     Rockstar Resources: Social Bee Click to Tweet     Connect with Yann Ilunga: Yann Ilunga's Website The Podcast Lab Podcast The Jazz Spotlight Podcast 360 Entrepreneur Podcast Podcast Growth Mastermind Facebook Group Facebook LinkedIn Instagram Twitter       Become a Podcast Rockstar!   Thanks for tuning into Podcast Rockstars - the show that helps business leaders become podcast legends. If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn and share your favorite episodes!   Join our exclusive Podcast Rockstars Facebook group to connect with other podcast legends and legends-in-the-making to ask your most pressing questions and tell us what guests you’d love to hear on the show!   And don’t forget to join our mailing list to learn what it takes to create great show notes for your podcast as well as receive updates on our latest episodes, blog posts, and other rockin’ content!

Planning the content you want to discuss on your podcast is only the beginning of your long journey ahead. Part of this planning is knowing who you want to invite as guests on your show. While there are many places you can consider, identifying specific areas you can look into will avoid the overwhelm of thinking about where to start your search.   Today, I share some creative strategies you can use to find new guests to interview for your show. I discuss four specific places you can explore to discover talents and potential guests that could impact your audience and your show. I also share ingenious ways to meet new people and expand your network when you have already exhausted yours.       “One of the things I love most about the podcast industry is how truly helpful podcasters are towards other podcasters.”     This week on Podcast Rockstars: The first and most familiar place to look for potential podcast guests How to connect with other podcasters within your niche The perks of listening to podcasts within your industry How to maximize the potential of connecting with other podcasters A smart way to get an idea on what your audience wants to hear on your show       Grab Your Free Tip Sheet: 27 Out-of-the-Box Ways to Find Great Podcast Guests   Are you struggling to find rockstar guests to invite on your show? Have you powered through your close network of friends and colleagues and now you’re struggling to figure out who you should feature next?   Then you need our free tip sheet: 27 Out-of-the-Box Ways to Find Great Podcast Guests.   This tip sheet will provide you with nearly 30 creative ideas on how you can find new, exciting, insightful guest experts to feature on your show.   What are you waiting for? Click here to join our mailing list and receive your FREE download!       Become a Podcast Rockstar!   Thanks for tuning into Podcast Rockstars - the show that helps business leaders become podcast legends. If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn and share your favorite episodes!   Join our exclusive Podcast Rockstars Facebook group to connect with other podcast legends and legends-in-the-making to ask your most pressing questions and tell us what guests you’d love to hear on the show!   And don’t forget to join our mailing list to learn what it takes to create great show notes for your podcast as well as receive updates on our latest episodes, blog posts, and other rockin’ content!

Kate Astrakhan is an audio engineer, technical podcast producer, and the founder of Podcast Network Solutions, a post-production company that helps podcasters and networks deliver amazing audio sound through post-production and podcast support services. Kate has over 30 years of experience in radio and broadcasting and has a love for storytelling. She fell in love with the podcast industry and its ability to give everyone a voice. Her company currently produces over 1,300 episodes per month.   Kate joins me today to share strategies on how to launch your podcast effectively. She discusses the basic tools you need to start a podcast as well as how to build your credibility, relationship, and trust with your audience. She also shares several ways to promote your show before its launch as well as helpful recommendations for your launch to get good traction, good subscription rates, and - more importantly - a good listening duration.       “You don’t want to launch with one show. That’s like a drop of rain in an ocean.” - Kate Astrakhan     This week on Podcast Rockstars: How Kate pivoted from radio to the podcast industry The different types of services and packages she offers to podcast networks The difference between audio editing and content editing How to create a huge impact using social media Why you need to promote your podcast guest before his or her interview The back-end work during the pre-launch of your show The number of episodes a new show should launch with and why Why you should ignore charts and New & Noteworthy for at least the first 3 months How long your podcast launch episodes should be The more important metric you need to have more than your downloads How much time to devote to planning and producing your podcast When to find sponsors and when to promote your own products and services     Rockstar Resources: Sennheiser microphones Behringer Xenyx 302USB Apple MacBook Zoom Audacity     Connect with Kate Astrakhan: Podcast Network Solutions Website Facebook Twitter Instagram Email: socialmedia@podcastnetworksolutions.com       Become a Podcast Rockstar!   Thanks for tuning into Podcast Rockstars - the show that helps business leaders become podcast legends. If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn and share your favorite episodes!   Join our exclusive Podcast Rockstars Facebook group to connect with other podcast legends and legends-in-the-making to ask your most pressing questions and tell us what guests you’d love to hear on the show!   And don’t forget to join our mailing list to learn what it takes to create great show notes for your podcast as well as receive updates on our latest episodes, blog posts, and other rockin’ content!

Sigrun Gudjonsdottir is the host of The Sigrun Show, a business podcast for female entrepreneurs. She is a lifestyle entrepreneur that has successfully established a seven-figure lifestyle business helping women across the globe build their dream businesses. She is a business mentor and international speaker and has been named the “female James Bond of Online Marketing.”    Originally from Iceland, Sigrun enjoys traveling the world while helping other women entrepreneurs, all while living her dream of having a location-independent business. Her motto is: Be Inspired, Think Big, and Take Action and through her podcast, she has helped thousands of women follow their passion - and turn that passion into a profitable business.   Sigrun joins me today to share how she launched her podcast with 100 episodes in 100 days. She explains why she decided on a 100-episode launch, how she got into podcasting as well as the inspirations that motivated her to create her own show. She also shares her secret for getting 180,000 downloads in the first year and a half of her podcast launch as well as some practical tips for those considering podcasting as part of their marketing strategy for their business.       “It’s easier to launch a podcast if you have an audience. It doesn't need to be big but have an audience before you start.” - Sigrun Gudjonsdottir     This week on Podcast Rockstars: The marketing strategies Sigrun used before she started her podcast How she leaped from doing webinars to podcasting What made her decide to do 100 episodes in 100 days when she launched her show How Sigrun came up with episode ideas for her 100-episode launch The challenges she encountered before and during the podcast launch and how she overcame them A glimpse of her behind-the-scene processes before recording an episode How launching 100 episodes in 100 days impacted her business     Rockstar Resources: The Sigrun Show Episode 3: How to Start Your Podcast the Easy Way with Kate Erickson The Sigrun Show Episode 5: How to Become Known in 30 Months or Less with Mark Schaefer The Sigrun Show Episode 12: Behind The Scenes of a Podcast Launch With 100 Episodes in 100 Days The Sigrun Show Episode 100: Lessons from 100 Podcast Episodes in 100 Days Zapier Google Sheets     Connect with Sigrun Gudjonsdottir: Website The Sigrun Show Podcast Facebook Twitter Instagram       Become a Podcast Rockstar!   Thanks for tuning into Podcast Rockstars - the show that helps business leaders become podcast legends. If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn and share your favorite episodes!   Join our exclusive Podcast Rockstars Facebook group to connect with other podcast legends and legends-in-the-making to ask your most pressing questions and tell us what guests you’d love to hear on the show!   And don’t forget to join our mailing list to learn what it takes to create great show notes for your podcast as well as receive updates on our latest episodes, blog posts, and other rockin’ content!

As an entrepreneur or a small business owner, you know the importance of creating a plan. Strategic planning helps you challenge your views and biases and help you acquire new insights into your business. Whether it’s mapping out your blog content for six months or jotting down your to-do list for the day, planning plays a crucial role when creating a content strategy for any aspect of your business - especially your podcast.   On this episode, I share how to create a content strategy and production schedule for your podcast for easier content planning and collaboration. I discuss four key elements of creating a content strategy for your show as well as some crucial questions you need to ask yourself before hitting the record button. I also share an effective way to organize your ideas as well as the tools that can help filter your thoughts so you can start being what your audience expects you to be - a podcast rockstar.       “Having a proper plan in place is critical to get from point A to point B in anything related to your business.”   This week on Podcast Rockstars: The benefits of planning ahead Why it’s important to identify your show’s overarching goals How identifying your listener avatar - your target audience - helps you create a content strategy for your show Why it’s important to think about your release schedule when creating a content strategy The importance of thinking about your podcast as a marketing strategy How to use the Brain Dump Strategy when planning your content Tools to help you create a brain dump list     Rockstar Resources: Episode 2: The Biggest Mistakes Podcasters Make and How to Avoid Them Asana Trello Google Sheets Evernote       Become a Podcast Rockstar!   Thanks for tuning into Podcast Rockstars - the show that helps business leaders become podcast legends. If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn and share your favorite episodes!   Join our exclusive Podcast Rockstars Facebook group to connect with other podcast legends and legends-in-the-making to ask your most pressing questions and tell us what guests you’d love to hear on the show!   And don’t forget to join our mailing list to learn what it takes to create great show notes for your podcast as well as receive updates on our latest episodes, blog posts, and other rockin’ content!  

Your systems and processes are crucial for getting things done in your podcast production. How do you gather information from your guests? How do you send them reminders about their upcoming interview?   Knowing which tools you need and the right ones for your processes make the difference between getting things done and thriving as a podcaster and getting burnt out and lead to podfading.   Today, I share the tools in my ‘podcasting toolbox’ that help me be productive. I discuss the features of each app as well as how each one saves me time and effort from doing repetitive tasks. I also share the benefits of using the apps as well as how these tools help streamline podcasting processes.       “These tools have saved me countless hours - not to mention stress.”     This week on Podcast Rockstars: Important features I looked for when choosing a booking app and the app I decided to use How automation tools help you save time and lessen your stress and the tool we recommend My preferred social media management tool and the features I love the most     Rockstar Resources: Acuity Scheduling Dropbox Zapier Buffer Hootsuite Later Zoom       Become a Podcast Rockstar!   Thanks for tuning into Podcast Rockstars - the show that helps business leaders become podcast legends. If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn and share your favorite episodes!   Join our exclusive Podcast Rockstars Facebook group to connect with other podcast legends and legends-in-the-making to ask your most pressing questions and tell us what guests you’d love to hear on the show!   And don’t forget to join our mailing list to learn what it takes to create great show notes for your podcast as well as receive updates on our latest episodes, blog posts, and other rockin’ content!

  Jo Dodds is the host of the POWER to Live More Podcast as well as the co-host of Engage for Success Radio. She is a consultant, speaker, and trainer on Employee Engagement and works on the core team at Engage for Success. She works with home-based coaches and consultants, helping them do more of what they want to do instead of what they should do through her program POWER to Live More. She helps them unleash their POWER within by improving their productivity, organization, wellbeing, energy, and resilience. Her POWER to Live More show explores these topics with guest interviews and a dash of storytelling.   Jo joins me today to share the systems and processes she established to be a productive podcaster. She discusses the challenges she faced as well as the inspirations that paved the way to the creation of her current personalized system. She also shares how she learned a strategy to find better quality guests to feature on her show as well as how she tweaks her processes to suit both her personality and her needs.       “Just go for it. Just get on with it. Just start it because things will evolve as you go along.” - Jo Dodds     This week on Podcast Rockstars: The hurdles Jo encountered as she started her podcast How a UK radio program she loves listening to influenced the format of her show The processes she put in place when she started recording her show How to get a better quality of guests for your show Strategies she suggests to other podcasters regarding simplifying processes Why she outsources her show notes The automation tools she uses as well as the list of things she wants to outsource Why done is better than perfect     Rockstar Resources: Asana Audacity TimeTrade GoToMeeting Missinglettr Zapier Pocket     Connect with Jo Dodds: Power to Live More Podcast LinkedIn Facebook Twitter       Become a Podcast Rockstar!   Thanks for tuning into Podcast Rockstars - the show that helps business leaders become podcast legends. If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn and share your favorite episodes!   Join our exclusive Podcast Rockstars Facebook group to connect with other podcast legends and legends-in-the-making to ask your most pressing questions and tell us what guests you’d love to hear on the show!   And don’t forget to join our mailing list to learn what it takes to create great show notes for your podcast as well as receive updates on our latest episodes, blog posts, and other rockin’ content!

There is a saying that goes, “Try and try until you succeed.” Many podcasters have tried various approaches and executed different strategies in their podcasting journey. If you are new to podcasting, an aspiring podcaster, or a solopreneur who wants to create a podcast as a part of your marketing strategy, then you have the advantage of saving time, effort, and money as you learn about the mistakes other podcasters have made - and how you can avoid them.   On this episode, I share three key mistakes new podcasters make when starting a podcast. I share some critical questions to help you get started as well as how to keep your audience engaged and excited. I also share tips on how to avoid making these mistakes to ensure you start your podcast with the right foundations so you can achieve not only your podcasting goals but also your full potential as a podcaster and business owner.         “If you’re thinking about launching a podcast this year, NOW is the time to start planning your vision, goals, and strategy for your show.” - Dawn Lidwell     This week on Podcast Rockstars: The foundational elements you should consider when planning your podcast The essential questions to ask yourself that will define the direction of your show A crucial podcasting element that is as important as the guests you want to interview The key to seeing conversions from your hard work A mistake that solopreneurs and early-stage entrepreneurs usually make What happens when you try to do everything in your podcast Why many podcasts fade out quickly     Become a Podcast Rockstar!   Thanks for tuning into Podcast Rockstars - the show that helps business leaders become podcast legends. If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn and share your favorite episodes!   Join our exclusive Podcast Rockstars Facebook group to connect with other podcast legends and legends-in-the-making to ask your most pressing questions and tell us what guests you’d love to hear on the show!   And don’t forget to join our mailing list to learn what it takes to create great show notes for your podcast as well as receive updates on our latest episodes, blog posts, and other rockin’ content!

Welcome to Podcast Rockstars - the show that teaches new and aspiring podcasters and business leaders how to expand their reach, grow their audience, and increase their revenue through podcasting.   I'm so excited you decided to join us!   In this episode, I share who I am, why I decided to launch Podcast Rockstars and the kind of content you can expect to receive from each episode. I share the backstory on how Lidwell Writing Services got started as well as the value we will bring each week through the show. I also share what you can expect from each powerhouse business leader we interview and the lessons they have learned throughout their podcasting journey.   So, grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and enjoy.         This week on Podcast Rockstars: How Lidwell Writing Services got started. Why we decided to launch the Podcast Rockstars show. What you can expect from each episode. Our goals, plans, and dreams for Podcast Rockstars. How each episode will help you - our amazing listeners!         Become a Podcast Rockstar!   Thanks for tuning into Podcast Rockstars - the show that helps business leaders become podcast legends. If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn and share your favorite episodes!   Join our exclusive Podcast Rockstars Facebook group to connect with other podcast legends and legends-in-the-making to ask your most pressing questions and tell us what guests you’d love to hear on the show!   And don’t forget to join our mailing list to learn what it takes to create great show notes for your podcast as well as receive updates on our latest episodes, blog posts, and other rockin’ content!