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Spotify just rolled out a new feature called “Plays” that shows your episode play counts publicly inside their app. But this move isn't about helping creators. It's about algorithmically manipulating what used to be a level playing field—and it benefits Spotify, not you.Worse? It distracts you from the metrics that actually show if your podcast is working. And for independent, niche hosts, this one visible number will breed unhealthy comparison, magnify self-doubt, and drive thousands of talented podcasters to quit before their show ever has a chance to grow.In this episode, we're breaking down what you need to know about this new metric, why it tells you nothing about the true health of your show, and what to focus on instead if you want a real understanding of how your content is resonating with listeners.Want to know what smart podcasters are tracking instead? Hit play and let's dive in.Episode Links:Why Spotify's New “Plays” Feature Actually Hurts Independent PodcastersOther Episodes You'll Love:4 Key Signs Your Podcast Is Making an Impact5 Metrics No One's Teaching That Tell You If Your Podcast Is Growing→ This episode was recorded on the Deity VO-7USupport the showLiked this episode? Share it with a fellow podcaster! Love this show? Say thanks by leaving a positive review.Register for Courtney's Free Podcasting Workshop: How to 10x Your Business with a Podcast in 2025Schedule a 1:1 Podcasting Audit with Courtney. Curious about PodLaunch®? Book a Demo to see if our podcasting mentorship is the right fit for your business. Connect with Courtney: Linked In | Instagram | PodLaunch HQ ©Ⓟ 2018–2025 by Courtney Elmer. All Rights Reserved.
Quick—nothing's batched and an episode's due tomorrow. What do you do? Panic? Procrastinate? Skip it and hope no one notices? Sure, you could ghost your audience—but what does that really cost you? Authority. Credibility. The listener trust you've worked so hard to build. That's why in this episode, I'm giving you 8 plug-and-play ideas you can use anytime your production schedule falls apart and you're about to spiral into “I'm failing at podcasting.” These are the exact strategies I've used when a hurricane hits, school randomly shuts down, or I'm on vacation. They've never failed me in over 5+ years of podcasting—and they'll save you one day too. So if you want to run your podcast like a pro (and make sure one rough week doesn't undo the consistency, trust, and credibility that set your show apart) hit play and let's dive in.1:18 – Why Skipping an Episode Does More Damage Than You Think3:02 – The Backup Plan Every Pro Needs for Sick Days, Travel Plans, and Life's Curveballs4:44 – 8 Plug-and-Play Ways to Save Your Schedule When You've Got Nothing Batched10:52 - Why These Backup Strategies Are My Secret Weapon for Consistency14:36 – How to Take a Structured Hiatus Without Breaking the Trust You've BuiltOther Episodes You'll Enjoy:How Do You Fit Time to Prep Your Podcast Into Your Schedule?→ This episode was recorded on the Deity VO-7USupport the showLiked this episode? Share it with a fellow podcaster! Love this show? Say thanks by leaving a positive review.Register for Courtney's Free Podcasting Workshop: How to 10x Your Business with a Podcast in 2025Schedule a 1:1 Podcasting Audit with Courtney. Curious about PodLaunch®? Book a Demo to see if our podcasting mentorship is the right fit for your business. Connect with Courtney: Linked In | Instagram | PodLaunch HQ ©Ⓟ 2018–2025 by Courtney Elmer. All Rights Reserved.
It's the day before your episode goes live—and you still have to outline it, record it, edit it, and get it all done before 6:00 am tomorrow morning when your listeners will be looking for it. You tell yourself you work better under pressure, but this pace is unsustainable. It drains your energy, kills your creativity, and honestly? It makes you hate your podcast.In this episode, I'm answering a listener's question about finding time to prep your episodes—and exposing what's really behind the last-minute race to hit publish. You'll get the exact system I use to stay a month ahead on content, so you can plan without pressure, record without rushing, and stop duct-taping episodes together at midnight the night before they air.So if you're *over* staying up late and showing up tired in the name of staying consistent, hit play and let's dive in.1:12 – Why “Finding Time to Record” Keeps You Editing at Midnight and Praying the Wi-Fi Holds 3:18 – What Your Listeners Can Hear When You Show Up With Last-Minute Energy 5:05 – How I Stay a Month Ahead on Content and Still Follow Inspiration When it Hits 7:30 – Why Letting Guests Control Your Calendar Sabotages Your Authority 9:48 – The System That Turns Shower Thoughts Into Fully Formed EpisodesOther Episodes You'll Love:Steal This Episode Planning Framework to Cut Your Prep Time in Half8 Ways to Fill a Content Gap Without Sounding Unprepared→ This episode was recorded on the Deity VO-7USupport the showLiked this episode? Share it with a fellow podcaster! Love this show? Say thanks by leaving a positive review.Register for Courtney's Free Podcasting Workshop: How to 10x Your Business with a Podcast in 2025Schedule a 1:1 Podcasting Audit with Courtney. Curious about PodLaunch®? Book a Demo to see if our podcasting mentorship is the right fit for your business. Connect with Courtney: Linked In | Instagram | PodLaunch HQ ©Ⓟ 2018–2025 by Courtney Elmer. All Rights Reserved.
You've probably Googled it. You've definitely heard five different answers from five different podcast “experts.” But how long should your episodes be? That depends entirely on your listener—and in this episode, I'm showing you how to figure out your perfect episode length using real data from your show.You'll learn the two metrics that matter most (and exactly where to find them), how to run a simple 10-episode audit to calculate your ideal episode length, and why nailing this is the fastest way to increase listener retention—and conversions.Because every time a listener drops off before your CTA, you're losing the chance to grow your audience (and your income)—so if you want to fix it, hit play and let's dive in.1:05 – Why Copying Other Shows (Even Unintentionally) Lowers Listener Retention2:58 – How to Stop the Silent Listener Drop-Off That's Killing Your Conversions8:16 – Run This 2-Metric Audit to Calculate Your Perfect Episode Length14:20 – Where to Place Your CTA So More Listeners Actually Hear It17:36 – Why Higher Listener Retention Drives More Plays (and Conversions)Other Episodes You'll Enjoy:How Do You Make Listeners Stay Longer? (and Why It Matters)→ This episode was recorded on the Deity VO-7USupport the showLiked this episode? Share it with a fellow podcaster! Love this show? Say thanks by leaving a positive review.Register for Courtney's Free Podcasting Workshop: How to 10x Your Business with a Podcast in 2025Schedule a 1:1 Podcasting Audit with Courtney. Curious about PodLaunch®? Book a Demo to see if our podcasting mentorship is the right fit for your business. Connect with Courtney: Linked In | Instagram | PodLaunch HQ ©Ⓟ 2018–2025 by Courtney Elmer. All Rights Reserved.
Most podcasters want more revenue from their podcast—but few have a plan for getting there. In this episode, Danielle Hayden (reformed corporate CFO and founder of Kickstart Accounting) is back to break down the numbers side of podcast growth. If you've ever wondered how to track conversions from your podcast, how to budget for your show, or how to confidently decide where to invest, this episode gives you the strategy most podcasters struggle to figure out alone. So if you're ready to learn how high-earning podcasters think about spending—and how to run your podcast like a business even when it's not making money yet—hit play and let's dive in. 1:05 – Why Knowing Your Profit Margin Matters More Than Podcast ROI3:26 – The Marketing Budget Benchmarks Most Podcasters Don't Know About5:51 – What to Track (and How) to Measure Real ROI From Your Show10:14 – How to Build a Spending Plan That Supports Your Podcast Growth14:00 – Where to Invest First to Get the Biggest Return From Your PodcastEpisode Links:Grab Danielle's free budgeting templateCheck out Danielle's podcast: Business By the BooksRead my go-to book on buying back your time: Buy Back Your Time by Dan MartellOther Episodes You'll Enjoy:This One Belief Is Costing You Podcast Revenue → This episode was recorded on the Deity VO-7USupport the showLiked this episode? Share it with a fellow podcaster! Love this show? Say thanks by leaving a positive review.Register for Courtney's Free Podcasting Workshop: How to 10x Your Business with a Podcast in 2025Schedule a 1:1 Podcasting Audit with Courtney. Curious about PodLaunch®? Book a Demo to see if our podcasting mentorship is the right fit for your business. Connect with Courtney: Linked In | Instagram | PodLaunch HQ ©Ⓟ 2018–2025 by Courtney Elmer. All Rights Reserved.
Your podcast isn't making money yet, so you think twice before investing in it. But without investing in the help you need to grow your show, it keeps struggling to bring in revenue. Ready to break out of the cycle?Meet Danielle Hayden—reformed corporate CFO, founder of Kickstart Accounting and host of Business by the Books. She joins me to break down why most podcasters never reach profitability, what your podcast spending habits reveal about you, and what needs to change if you want your podcast to drive actual revenue, not just downloads. Because publishing consistent content is one thing—building a podcast that pays you back is another. So if you're done publishing episodes for free and you think it'd be really great to finally get paid for doing work you love, hit play and let's dive in.1:05 – Why Most Podcasters Hesitate to Invest in Their Shows—and Stay Unprofitable Because of It2:27 – How Ego, Fear, and Old Money Stories Shape Your Podcast Decisions7:56 – How High-Earning Podcasters Decide Where to Spend First10:18 – Why ROI Isn't the Only Way Your Podcast Pays You Back11:49 – How to Run Your Podcast Like a Business When It's Not Making Money YetEpisode Links:Check out Danielle Hayden's podcast: Business By the BooksConnect with Danielle: KickstartAccountingInc.comMy go-to book on buying back your time: Buy Back Your Time by Dan MartellOther Episodes You'll Enjoy:The Spending Strategy Behind Podcasts That Make Money→ This episode was recorded on the Deity VO-7USupport the showLiked this episode? Share it with a fellow podcaster! Love this show? Say thanks by leaving a positive review.Register for Courtney's Free Podcasting Workshop: How to 10x Your Business with a Podcast in 2025Schedule a 1:1 Podcasting Audit with Courtney. Curious about PodLaunch®? Book a Demo to see if our podcasting mentorship is the right fit for your business. Connect with Courtney: Linked In | Instagram | PodLaunch HQ ©Ⓟ 2018–2025 by Courtney Elmer. All Rights Reserved.
Most podcasters think the problem is low downloads. But do you know what actually causes low downloads? When people can't tell—within seconds—why your show is for them.Fellow podcaster Desiree Petrich shares the messy, emotional (and ultimately empowering) process of rebranding her show—from trying to be everything for everyone to creating a bingeworthy podcast that speaks directly to first-time managers. You'll hear what happened when she finally narrowed her focus, brought more of her real voice to the mic, and stopped being afraid to ask for help.What you're about to hear isn't a story about overnight success. It's about choosing to keep podcasting when you love it too much to quit. So if you want to create a podcast you're proud of—and one your listeners can't wait to learn from—hit play and let's dive in.1:04 – The Moment Desiree Realized Her Podcast Wasn't Helping Her Business (or Her Audience)8:38 – How Rebranding Gave Her Permission to Finally Say What She Meant11:15 – The Naming Strategy That Helped Her Stand Out in a Saturated Category16:13 – What Listener Feedback Sounds Like When Your Message Finally Hits20:14 – The Gut-Check Question to Ask Yourself at the End of Every Episode—and Why It Changes EverythingEpisode Links:Check out Desiree Petrich's Podcast: You're The Boss. Now What?Other Episodes You'll Love:How to Make Your Podcast Worth Every Second You Spend on ItQ + A | Can't Break 200 Downloads? Let's Fix That→ This episode was recorded on the Deity VO-7USupport the showLiked this episode? Share it with a fellow podcaster! Love this show? Say thanks by leaving a positive review.Register for Courtney's Free Podcasting Workshop: How to 10x Your Business with a Podcast in 2025Schedule a 1:1 Podcasting Audit with Courtney. Curious about PodLaunch®? Book a Demo to see if our podcasting mentorship is the right fit for your business. Connect with Courtney: Linked In | Instagram | PodLaunch HQ ©Ⓟ 2018–2025 by Courtney Elmer. All Rights Reserved.
You're second-guessing your content. Overthinking your numbers. Wondering if podcasting is even worth it. And it's not because you're doing it wrong—it's because you're doing it alone.In this episode, I'm joined by longtime podcaster and founder of the New England Podcasters Group, Andy Lyons, to expose the hidden costs of podcasting in isolation—and why plugging into a room of serious podcasters could be the thing that finally gets your show the numbers it deserves.So if you've been white-knuckling your way through this podcasting thing, hoping that if you just stay consistent it'll all click soon, this episode will show you why that hasn't worked—and what to do instead. Hit play and let's dive in.Episode Links:Check out Ande Lyon's podcast: Don't Be Caged By Your AgeOther Episodes You'll Enjoy:The One Thing Podcasters Should Track Instead of DownloadsStarting a Podcast That Builds Your Business (and Your Self Belief)→ This episode was recorded on the Deity VO-7USupport the showLiked this episode? Share it with a fellow podcaster! Love this show? Say thanks by leaving a positive review.Register for Courtney's Free Podcasting Workshop: How to 10x Your Business with a Podcast in 2025Schedule a 1:1 Podcasting Audit with Courtney. Curious about PodLaunch®? Book a Demo to see if our podcasting mentorship is the right fit for your business. Connect with Courtney: Linked In | Instagram | PodLaunch HQ ©Ⓟ 2018–2025 by Courtney Elmer. All Rights Reserved.
If you're still airing interviews you wouldn't listen to yourself—just because you feel obligated toward your guests—you're not building trust with your listeners. You're breaking it. And once your audience feels like their time isn't valued? They won't complain. They'll just stop listening.If you want a podcast that builds authority and drives loyalty, you need to lead interviews that earn attention. In this episode, you'll learn how to ask questions your guest hasn't answered a dozen times, pull out insights your audience can *actually* use, and create one-of-a-kind conversations that make your show worth returning to, following, and sharing.So if you're done settling for polite interviews that don't convert (and ready to lead ones that earn trust and ultimately grow your show) hit play and let's dive in.
If your guest could've given the same answers on five other podcasts, you didn't lead the interview—you hosted a rerun. And when every guest episode sounds the same? Listeners don't blame the guest. They stop trusting you. In this episode, you'll learn the three host mistakes that quietly erode your authority, why “just letting the convo flow” leads to copy-paste content your audience has already heard, and how to stay in control of the conversation without sounding stiff or losing rapport. Because great interviews don't just happen, and they're what separates podcasts that get skipped from the ones that get shared. So if you want to lead interviews that hook your listeners and keep them coming back (without sounding scripted or stiff), hit play and let's dive in.
Most podcasters know they need a website—but what you might not realize is how the wrong kind of site can quietly bury your show in search and cost you the listeners, leads, and visibility you're working so hard to earn.In this episode, I'm breaking down everything you need to know about podcasting websites—from what to include (and what to avoid), to where it should live, to the one mistake that could be sending all your search traffic (and Google authority) to someone else's site instead of yours.So if you've ever Googled “Does my podcast need its own website?” or “Should I buy a domain for my podcast?”—and you're podcasting to grow your brand and want your show to get found online—hit play and let's dive in.0:07 – Do You Really Need a Website for Podcasting?2:15 – Can You Use the Free Website From Your Podcast Host?3:50 – What's the Best Way to Set Up a Website for Podcasting?5:43 – Do You Need a Domain Name for Your Podcast?8:12 – What Should You Include on Your Podcast Website?12:45 – Should Your Podcast Live on a Separate Site or Your Main Brand Site?14:08 – When Third-Party Podcasting Sites Like PodPage Make Sense (and When to Avoid Them)Episode Links:See our podcast blog in action: PodLaunchHQ.comIf you meet the criteria I shared in the episode for using PodPage, click here to choose a plan (and tell Brandon and Dave that Courtney @ PodLaunch sent you!)Other Episodes You'll Enjoy:4 Podcast Growth Strategies You Haven't Tried Yet (But Should)→ This episode was recorded on the Deity VO-7USupport the showLiked this episode? Share it with a fellow podcaster! Love this show? Say thanks by leaving a positive review.Register for Courtney's Free Podcasting Workshop: How to 10x Your Business with a Podcast in 2025Schedule a 1:1 Podcasting Audit with Courtney. Curious about PodLaunch®? Book a Demo to see if our podcasting mentorship is the right fit for your business. Connect with Courtney: Linked In | Instagram | PodLaunch HQ ©Ⓟ 2018–2025 by Courtney Elmer. All Rights Reserved.
Krissy Bold launched a parenting podcast with a confusing name, hour-long episodes no one finished, and a message no one was clicking on.Then she made a few key changes and hit #3 in Parenting—outranking Big Bird, Blippi, and Frozen in under a week—and she's been ranking on the top podcasting charts ever since.What changed?In this episode, we're unpacking the key differences between a podcast people scroll past and one they binge, share, and rave about. Even better? You'll learn how to apply this to *your* show so you can stop refreshing your stats like it's going to change something and start building a podcast listeners want to support and shout from the rooftops.So if you've been wondering what your podcast is missing, this episode has your answer. Hit play and let's dive in.0:07 – What to Look for When Your Podcast Isn't Working (and You're Doing Everything Right)4:52 – Why Listeners Aren't Finishing Your Episodes (Even If the Content Is Good)6:40 – The Messaging Fix That Finally Got Krissy's Audience to Lean In10:28 – The Relaunch Plan That Took Her to the Top Parenting Charts19:30 – Why Most Podcasters Overlook the Easiest Way to Reach Their AudienceEpisode Links:Check out Krissy Bold Bold's Podcast: Mom's Guide to Finding HerselfLearn More from Krissy: MomIdentityProject.comOther Episodes You'll Enjoy:How to Make Your Podcast the One Listeners Can't Ignore→ This episode was recorded on the Deity VO-7USupport the showLiked this episode? Share it with a fellow podcaster! Love this show? Say thanks by leaving a positive review.Register for Courtney's Free Podcasting Workshop: How to 10x Your Business with a Podcast in 2025Schedule a 1:1 Podcasting Audit with Courtney. Curious about PodLaunch®? Book a Demo to see if our podcasting mentorship is the right fit for your business. Connect with Courtney: Linked In | Instagram | PodLaunch HQ ©Ⓟ 2018–2025 by Courtney Elmer. All Rights Reserved.
Still waiting to feel “ready” before you start pitching the guests or sponsors you really want?In this episode, HuffPost contributor and media expert Alice Draper is back to show you the exact process she uses to turn rejection into a measurable growth strategy for your podcast. You'll learn how to build your “rejection muscle,” set rejection goals that lead to more yeses, and use data from ignored or declined pitches to refine your messaging and land bigger and better opportunities.So if you've been overthinking your pitch or convincing yourself you need a bigger audience before you can pitch bigger guests or sponsors—and you're ready to be the kind of host people say yes to without hesitation—hit play and let's dive in.1:08 – The Surprising Growth That Can Happen When You Treat Rejection as a Strategy, Not a Setback 6:24 – How to Use Pitch Rejections to Improve Your Messaging 9:17 – A Simple Way to Make Your Pitches More Specific (and Stand Out) 12:24 – What it Really Means When No One Replies to Your Pitch (and How to Handle It) 14:15 – If Pitching Feels Intimidating Right Now, Here's How to Take the Pressure OffEpisode Links:Steal Alice's pitch templates—the same ones that have helped her clients land interviews on 500+ top shows like WorkLife with Adam Grant.Check Out Alice Draper's Podcast: My Rejection StoryLearn More from Alice: hustlingwriters.comOther Episodes You'll Enjoy:The Real Reason You're Still Sitting on That Guest or Sponsor Pitch→ This episode was recorded on the Deity VO-7USupport the showLiked this episode? Share it with a fellow podcaster! Love this show? Say thanks by leaving a positive review.Register for Courtney's Free Podcasting Workshop: How to 10x Your Business with a Podcast in 2025Schedule a 1:1 Podcasting Audit with Courtney. Curious about PodLaunch®? Book a Demo to see if our podcasting mentorship is the right fit for your business. Connect with Courtney: Linked In | Instagram | PodLaunch HQ ©Ⓟ 2018–2025 by Courtney Elmer. All Rights Reserved.
You know that pitch you *almost* sent? Or that big guest or sponsor you're telling yourself you'll reach out to “once you're ready”? That idea you keep researching but haven't acted on yet? This episode is about that moment—when you're stuck between wanting more for your podcast and actually going after it.HuffPost contributor and media expert Alice Draper has helped clients land guest spots on 500+ podcasts, including WorkLife with Adam Grant and UnF*ck Your Brain. She joins me to unpack the psychology behind rejection, why your brain sees “no” as a survival threat, and how this fear keeps you from the visibility, credibility, and growth you deserve.So if you're tired of watching other people land the guests, sponsors, and traction you want—and you're ready to start pitching bigger names and getting your show into the rooms it deserves to be in (even if it scares you a little)—hit play and let's dive in.1:36 – The Real Fear Behind “My Show Isn't Big Enough Yet”6:15 – How Visibility Triggers Imposter Syndrome (and What to Do About It)9:09 – “They'll Probably Say No Anyway”—And Other Lies We Tell Ourselves15:46 – Why You Don't Need More Downloads to Pitch Big Guests or Sponsors17:58 – The One Thing You're Not Doing That Could Actually Grow Your ShowEpisode Links:Steal Alice's pitch templates—the same ones that have helped her clients land interviews on 500+ top shows like WorkLife with Adam Grant.Check Out Alice Draper's Podcast: My Rejection StoryLearn More from Alice: hustlingwriters.comOther Episodes You'll Enjoy:How to Train for Rejection and Use It to Grow Your Podcast Faster → This episode was recorded on the Deity VO-7USupport the showLiked this episode? Share it with a fellow podcaster! Love this show? Say thanks by leaving a positive review.Register for Courtney's Free Podcasting Workshop: How to 10x Your Business with a Podcast in 2025Schedule a 1:1 Podcasting Audit with Courtney. Curious about PodLaunch®? Book a Demo to see if our podcasting mentorship is the right fit for your business. Connect with Courtney: Linked In | Instagram | PodLaunch HQ ©Ⓟ 2018–2025 by Courtney Elmer. All Rights Reserved.
You've heard “niche down” is the key to podcast growth. But what if your niche is actually too narrow to scale? In this live coaching session, I walk Dennis through why his podcast wasn't attracting the audience he really wanted—and the simple repositioning moves we made to fix it.We're breaking down how his show's branding was confusing listeners instead of converting them, and how these core podcast content gatekeepers will either earn the click or cost you the download. So if you're tired of seeing single-digit downloads on episodes you spent hours producing (or you've been publishing weekly but your numbers haven't budged in months) this episode will show you exactly what to change. Hit play and let's dive in.Want my expert eyes (and ears) on your show? Apply for on-air coaching here (spots are limited).0:04 – When “Niche Down” Backfires and Stops Your Podcast From Growing1:12 – What You Think Your Podcast Is About vs. What Listeners Actually See3:18 – Why Your Podcast Name Might Be Turning the Right Listeners Away5:26 – Why Listeners Aren't Clicking (Even If You Know Your Content Is Valuable)9:03 – The Fix: How to Reposition Without Losing the Heart of Your MessageSupport the showLiked this episode? Share it with a fellow podcaster! Love this show? Say thanks by leaving a positive review.Register for Courtney's Free Podcasting Workshop: How to 10x Your Business with a Podcast in 2025Schedule a 1:1 Podcasting Audit with Courtney. Curious about PodLaunch®? Book a Demo to see if our podcasting mentorship is the right fit for your business. Connect with Courtney: Linked In | Instagram | PodLaunch HQ ©Ⓟ 2018–2025 by Courtney Elmer. All Rights Reserved.
You've got the mic. You've got the mission. So why isn't anyone listening?That's the question Dennis—high school athletics coach turned podcaster—was asking when he came to me for help. He knew who he wanted to serve, but a few months in, he was still struggling to get people to notice his show.In this first-ever Fix My Pod on-air coaching session, we're breaking down the gap between knowing your audience and actually getting them to click play—because nothing kills momentum faster than showing up every week and still getting ignored.So if you've launched (or you're about to) and want to get more of the right listeners hitting play on the episodes you're working hard to create, hit play and let's dive in.Want my expert eyes (and ears) on your show? Apply for on-air coaching here (spots are limited).0:05 – Why Your Podcast Isn't Getting Clicked (Even If Your Content Is Great)2:15 – Why Your Podcast Might Be Clear to You, but Confusing to Listeners6:40 – How to Find Your Angle in a Crowded Podcast Niche10:28 – How People Actually Decide If Your Podcast Is Worth Their Time14:08 – 5 Things That Make or Break Your Podcast's First Impression14:46 – What Your Cover Art, Title, and Description Are Actually Saying to Your ListenersSupport the showLiked this episode? Share it with a fellow podcaster! Love this show? Say thanks by leaving a positive review.Register for Courtney's Free Podcasting Workshop: How to 10x Your Business with a Podcast in 2025Schedule a 1:1 Podcasting Audit with Courtney. Curious about PodLaunch®? Book a Demo to see if our podcasting mentorship is the right fit for your business. Connect with Courtney: Linked In | Instagram | PodLaunch HQ ©Ⓟ 2018–2025 by Courtney Elmer. All Rights Reserved.
Do This, NOT That: Marketing Tips with Jay Schwedelson l Presented By Marigold
In this episode of "Do This, Not That," host Jay Schwedelson interviews Courtney Elmer, founder of PodLaunch and host of "Insider Secrets to a Top 100 Podcast." They dive deep into the world of podcasting, exploring everything from why it's not too late to start a podcast to the secrets of ranking on the charts and setting realistic expectations for podcast success.BTW! GURU Conference is back!!!
You've been told video is the only way to grow your podcast—but the ones shouting the loudest about it? They're the ones profiting from your overwhelm.In this episode, Buzzsprout's Head of Marketing Alban Brooke is back to expose what no one is talking about: the hidden costs, the inflated promises, and the hard data that shows how video might actually be hurting your show more than helping it. He also shares what *really* happened behind the scenes when Buzzsprout went all-in on video—and the exact moment he realized they got it wrong.So if you've been wondering why podcasting feels harder than it should (and you're ready to build a podcast you won't secretly resent) hit play and let's dive in.2:01 - The Real Video Podcasting Backstory (and Who's Profiting From It) 4:34 - Why 84% of the Top 50 Podcasts Don't Upload Video to Spotify 6:43 - The Silent Burnout Epidemic Among Podcasters Trying to “Do It All” 8:17 - The Video Wake-Up Call Buzzsprout Didn't See Coming 10:23 - The Emotional Toll of Trying to Podcast Like a YouTuber 15:07 - The Real Question Every Podcaster Should Ask Before Adding VideoEpisode Links:Get a $20 Buzzsprout credit when you sign up through this link—courtesy of Alban and the Buzzsprout team.Other Episodes You'll Enjoy:Podcast Growth Myths Debunked by Buzzsprout's Head of MarketingWhy Audio-Only Podcasting Still DominatesSupport the showLiked this episode? Share it with a fellow podcaster! Love this show? Say thanks by leaving a positive review.Register for Courtney's Free Podcasting Workshop: How to 10x Your Business with a Podcast in 2025Schedule a 1:1 Podcasting Audit with Courtney. Curious about PodLaunch®? Book a Demo to see if our podcasting mentorship is the right fit for your business. Connect with Courtney: Linked In | Instagram | PodLaunch HQ ©Ⓟ 2018–2025 by Courtney Elmer. All Rights Reserved.
You could record another episode. You could double down on promotion. You could even guest on a hundred other podcasts. But if your show isn't built to attract the right listeners? None of it will work.In this episode, Alban Brooke, Head of Marketing at Buzzsprout, rips apart the most common (and costly) podcast growth myths—like why simply “putting out great content” isn't enough and why most marketing tactics are a waste of time.So if you're ready to quit the endless cycle of more content, more promotion, more whatever—and finally get your podcast in front of the right listeners, hit play and let's dive in.0:45 - Why ‘More Listeners = More Growth' Is a Lie3:15 - Why Some Podcasts Explode Overnight (and Yours Hasn't Yet)8:45 - The Podcast Marketing Advice That's Wasting Your Time14:30 - What Actually Makes Listeners Binge Your Podcast21:10 - The Difference Between Podcasters Who Grow vs. Those Who PlateauEpisode Links:Get a $20 Buzzsprout credit when you sign up through this link—courtesy of Alban and the Buzzsprout team.Other Episodes You'll Love: The One Thing Podcasters Should Track Instead of DownloadsThe Dark Side of Video Podcasting (And Why Many Podcasters Regret It)→ This episode was recorded on the Deity VO-7USupport the showLiked this episode? Share it with a fellow podcaster! Love this show? Say thanks by leaving a positive review.Register for Courtney's Free Podcasting Workshop: How to 10x Your Business with a Podcast in 2025NEW! Schedule a 1:1 Podcasting Audit w/ Courtney (60-min paid session). Curious about PodLaunch®? Book a Free Discovery Call to see if our podcasting mentorship is the right fit for your business. Connect with Courtney: Linked In | Instagram | PodLaunch HQ ©Ⓟ 2018–2025 by Courtney Elmer. All Rights Reserved.
Spending hours on your podcast but still waiting for it to pay off? PodLaunch® graduate Jen Edmonds was too—booking guests last minute, scrambling to release episodes, and promoting nonstop with nothing to show for it.The fix? A streamlined podcast strategy that turned her show into an audience growth engine. In this episode, we're breaking down the exact shifts Jen made, what happens when you treat your podcast like an asset instead of an afterthought, and the podcast systems you need to actually drive results. So if you're tired of your podcast feeling like a full-time job with no paycheck, hit play and let's dive in.0:00 – Why Podcasting Feels Like a Full-Time Job With No Payoff4:12 – The Hidden Time Suck That's Slowing Your Podcast Down9:37 – The Shift That Turns Your Podcast Into a True Business Asset14:52 – The Real Cost of Running Your Podcast Without a Strategy18:25 – The Truth Behind Predictable Podcast GrowthEpisode Links:Check out Jen Edmond's podcast: Your Journey to FertilityOther Episodes You'll Enjoy:Creating a Podcast That Attracts New Clients Every Month→ This episode was recorded on the Deity VO-7USupport the showLiked this episode? Share it with a fellow podcaster! Love this show? Say thanks by leaving a positive review.Register for Courtney's Free Podcasting Workshop: How to 10x Your Business with a Podcast in 2025NEW! Schedule a 1:1 Podcasting Audit w/ Courtney (60-min paid session). Curious about PodLaunch®? Book a Free Discovery Call to see if our podcasting mentorship is the right fit for your business. Connect with Courtney: Linked In | Instagram | PodLaunch HQ ©Ⓟ 2018–2025 by Courtney Elmer. All Rights Reserved.
If you've been told that sharing your podcast on social media will grow your audience—spoiler alert—it won't. And if you've been stuck at the same download count despite posting, guesting, and promoting your show, this episode will show you why.We're busting the biggest misconceptions about podcast growth, including why consistency alone won't build your audience (and what will), why guesting on bigger podcasts doesn't guarantee more listeners, and the one thing you must have in place before any marketing strategy will actually work.So if you're tired of posting, promoting, and hoping for the best (and you're ready to see a real ROI from your podcast), hit play and let's dive in.0:45 - Why Posting on Social Media Won't Grow Your Podcast (And What to Do Instead)4:46 - Why Guesting on Big Podcasts Won't Magically Bring You Listeners9:08 - The Real Reason Your Podcast Isn't Growing (That Has Nothing to Do With Promotion)14:25 - The 3 Podcast Growth Triggers That Actually Bring in New Listeners21:51 - How to Get Your Podcast Discovered Without Spending Extra Time or MoneyOther Episodes You'll Enjoy:How to Hit the Top 5 in Apple and Spotify Search ResultsThe Exact SEO Keywords You Need to Get Your Podcast FoundWhy ‘If You Build It, They Will Come' Isn't Working for Your Podcast→ This episode was recorded on the Deity VO-7USupport the showLiked this episode? Share it with a fellow podcaster! Love this show? Say thanks by leaving a positive review.Register for Courtney's Free Podcasting Workshop: How to 10x Your Business with a Podcast in 2025NEW! Schedule a 1:1 Podcasting Audit w/ Courtney (60-min paid session). Curious about PodLaunch®? Book a Free Discovery Call to see if our podcasting mentorship is the right fit for your business. Connect with Courtney: Linked In | Instagram | PodLaunch HQ ©Ⓟ 2018–2025 by Courtney Elmer. All Rights Reserved.
If you don't have a guest release form in place, this episode is your wake-up call. If you do have one, are you sure it actually protects you? Podcasting attorney Gordon Firemark is back to break down why every podcaster (yes, even small shows) needs a rock-solid guest release before hitting record.He shares exactly what it should include, when your guests should sign it, and the real-life story of a podcaster who skipped this step—and got sued for it. So if you want peace of mind knowing your podcast is legally protected, hit play and let's dive in.0:29 - Why Even Small Shows Need a Guest Release Form2:11 - How Skipping This Step Opens You Up to a Lawsuit6:15 - What to Include in Your Guest Release for Full Protection7:30 - The Must-Have AI Clause That Protects Both You and Your Guest9:34 - The Easiest Way to Get Guests to Sign (with Zero Pushback) Episode Links:Check Out Gordon Firemark's Podcast: Legit Podcast ProGordon's Book: The Podcast, Blog & New Media Producer's Legal Survival Guide Free Lawyer-drafted Podcast Guest Release Agreement Additional Lawyer-drafted Legal Templates & Forms Easy Legal For Podcasters DIY Legal Training Other Episodes You'll Enjoy:The Legal Blind Spots That Could Shut Down Your Podcast → This episode was recorded on the Deity VO-7USupport the showLiked this episode? Share it with a fellow podcaster! Love this show? Say thanks by leaving a positive review.Register for Courtney's Free Podcasting Workshop: How to 10x Your Business with a Podcast in 2025NEW! Schedule a 1:1 Podcasting Audit w/ Courtney (60-min paid session). Curious about PodLaunch®? Book a Free Discovery Call to see if our podcasting mentorship is the right fit for your business. Connect with Courtney: Linked In | Instagram | PodLaunch HQ ©Ⓟ 2018–2025 by Courtney Elmer. All Rights Reserved.
You put in the work. You craft your episodes. You build your brand. But what if someone swoops in and steals it—your content, your show name, even your audience—because you didn't have the right legal protections in place?That's exactly what we're tackling today with podcast and entertainment lawyer Gordon Firemark. From copyrights and trademarks to AI-generated content and guest releases, we're breaking down the most overlooked legal protections every podcaster needs to have in place before it's too late.Even if you're just getting started or think your audience is too small for this to matter, waiting until it's a problem is a mistake you don't want to make. Hit play and let's dive in.1:30 - 5 Ways to Protect Your Podcast Before It's Too Late2:44 - Copyright 101: Are Your Episodes Actually Protected?7:01 - Trademarks: Why Your Show Name Isn't Automatically Safe10:22 - Music & Fair Use: The Legal Minefield Most Podcasters Ignore13:43 - AI, Voice Cloning & The Legal Loopholes You Need to Know Episode Links:Check Out Gordon Firemark's Podcast: Legit Podcast ProGordon's Book: The Podcast, Blog & New Media Producer's Legal Survival Guide Free Lawyer-drafted Podcast Guest Release Agreement Additional Lawyer-drafted Legal Templates & Forms Easy Legal For Podcasters DIY Legal Training Other Episodes You'll Enjoy:What to Include in Your Guest Release Form for Total Protection → This episode was recorded on the Deity VO-7USupport the showLiked this episode? Share it with a fellow podcaster! Love this show? Say thanks by leaving a positive review.Register for Courtney's Free Podcasting Workshop: How to 10x Your Business with a Podcast in 2025NEW! Schedule a 1:1 Podcasting Audit w/ Courtney (60-min paid session). Curious about PodLaunch®? Book a Free Discovery Call to see if our podcasting mentorship is the right fit for your business. Connect with Courtney: Linked In | Instagram | PodLaunch HQ ©Ⓟ 2018–2025 by Courtney Elmer. All Rights Reserved.
Ever stare at your podcast stats, searching for proof your show is actually working—only to wonder if anyone even cares?Pressing play isn't the same as listening. If people drop off early, skip episodes, or never engage, your podcast isn't holding their attention. And if your show keeps getting swiped past, it's time to figure out why.In this episode, I'm breaking down the four unmistakable signs that prove your podcast is resonating with listeners (or not). You'll learn why downloads don't tell the full story, the retention metric that actually predicts growth, and the one kind of feedback that proves listeners are hooked and taking action. So if you're ready to stop guessing and start seeing real proof that your podcast is working, hit play and let's dive in.0:45 - Why Download Numbers Deceive You About Your Podcast's Success2:18 - 4 Signs That Prove Your Podcast Is Resonating With Listeners5:27 - The Retention Benchmark That Shows Whether Listeners Are Hooked or Bored8:03 - The Surprising Reason Listeners Skip Your Show (And How to Stop It)13:24 - The Listener Feedback That Proves Your Podcast Is Changing LivesOther Episodes You'll Love:Why Your Podcast Isn't Growing (Even If Your Content Is Great)Steal This Strategy to Keep Your Audience Coming Back4 Reasons Why Podcast Guesting Isn't Working for YouThe Down & Dirty Truth About Episode Length→ This episode was recorded on the Deity VO-7USupport the showLiked this episode? Share it with a fellow podcaster! Love this show? Say thanks by leaving a positive review.Register for Courtney's Free Podcasting Workshop: How to 10x Your Business with a Podcast in 2025NEW! Schedule a 1:1 Podcasting Audit w/ Courtney (60-min paid session). Curious about PodLaunch®? Book a Free Discovery Call to see if our podcasting mentorship is the right fit for your business. Connect with Courtney: Linked In | Instagram | PodLaunch HQ ©Ⓟ 2018–2025 by Courtney Elmer. All Rights Reserved.
Ever spent hours crafting a podcast episode packed with expert knowledge, only to watch it get fewer downloads than the one you threw together last minute? Or worse—seen another podcast with generic advice rack up five-star reviews while your in-depth, value-packed episodes keep getting ignored?In this episode, I'm breaking down why what you think is valuable and what your listeners perceive as valuable are two completely different things. If you don't bridge that gap, your podcast won't just struggle to grow—it'll keep getting overlooked while less helpful shows take the spotlight.So if you want listeners to stop tuning out halfway, and start seeing your show as a must-listen, hit play and let's dive in.0:45 - Why Giving Away Your Best Content for Free Won't Grow Your Podcast3:22 - The Messaging Mistake That Makes Listeners Tune You Out6:10 - Why Your Audience Doesn't Care How Much You Know (Yet)9:55 - The Surprising Reason Your Listeners Aren't Taking Action (And How to Fix It)14:16 - The Listener Psychology Formula That Makes Your Podcast Impossible to IgnoreOther Episodes You'll Love:3 Ways to Hook Your Listener Before They Ever Hit PlaySupport the showLiked this episode? Share it with a fellow podcaster! Love this show? Say thanks by leaving a positive review.Register for Courtney's Free Podcasting Workshop: How to 10x Your Business with a Podcast in 2025NEW! Schedule a 1:1 Podcasting Audit w/ Courtney (60-min paid session). Curious about PodLaunch®? Book a Free Discovery Call to see if our podcasting mentorship is the right fit for your business. Connect with Courtney: Linked In | Instagram | PodLaunch HQ ©Ⓟ 2018–2025 by Courtney Elmer. All Rights Reserved.
So, you want your audience to see you as a pro? Good news: it's not about having the latest gear. It's about knowing when to upgrade and how to maximize what you've got. Home studio expert Junaid Ahmed is back to share his simple, no-BS advice on building a home studio setup that grows with you. We're breaking down when to invest in new gear, when to hold off, and the small tweaks that make a big difference in your sound—without blowing your budget.If you think better gear is the key to earning authority in podcasting, this episode will change your mind. Hit play and let's dive in.1:02 - What Actually Makes You Look Like a Pro (Hint: It's Not Your Gear)3:20 - The First Step to a Studio Setup That Grows With You5:42 - When to Invest in New Gear (and When to Save Your Money)10:11 - Quick Fixes for Pro-Level Sound on Any Budget14:20 - How to Upgrade Your Gear Without Breaking the Bank Episode Links:Check out Junaid Ahmed's Podcast: Hacks to HobbiesBook Your Free Home Studio Audit with Junaid: HomeStudioMastery.comBuy, sell or trade used video gear:mpb.com keh.com Other Episodes You'll Enjoy:The Secret to a Home Studio That Elevates Your Authority → This episode was recorded on the Deity VO-7USupport the showLiked this episode? Share it with a fellow podcaster! Love this show? Say thanks by leaving a positive review.Register for Courtney's Free Podcasting Workshop: How to 10x Your Business with a Podcast in 2025NEW! Schedule a 1:1 Podcasting Audit w/ Courtney (60-min paid session). Curious about PodLaunch®? Book a Free Discovery Call to see if our podcasting mentorship is the right fit for your business. Connect with Courtney: Linked In | Instagram | PodLaunch HQ ©Ⓟ 2018–2025 by Courtney Elmer. All Rights Reserved.
Better gear won't make you a better podcaster. But you can create a home studio that looks and sounds pro—using what you already have. Fellow podcaster and tech guru Junaid Ahmed joins me to distill 20+ years of audio and video design into 20 minutes of no-nonsense advice to help you create a home studio that commands authority on any budget, and to prove that how you use your gear matters more than the gear itself. So if you're worried your setup makes you look unprofessional (or that your audience won't take you seriously), this one's for you. Hit play and let's dive in.0:55 - Why Better Gear Won't Make You a Better Podcaster2:24 - How to Create a Home Studio That Commands Authority—Without Spending a Dime4:57 - Why Dedication to Your Craft Builds Deeper Trust With Your Listeners16:18 - Why Gear Placement > Gear Price (Always)17:20 - How to Get Studio-Quality Audio on Any BudgetEpisode Links:Check out Junaid Ahmed's Podcast: Hacks to HobbiesBook Your Free Home Studio Audit with Junaid: HomeStudioMastery.comOther Episodes You'll Enjoy:4 Ways to Upgrade Your Home Studio Without Overspending→ This episode was recorded on the Deity VO-7USupport the showLiked this episode? Share it with a fellow podcaster! Love this show? Say thanks by leaving a positive review.Register for Courtney's Free Podcasting Workshop: How to 10x Your Business with a Podcast in 2025NEW! Schedule a 1:1 Podcasting Audit w/ Courtney (60-min paid session). Curious about PodLaunch®? Book a Free Discovery Call to see if our podcasting mentorship is the right fit for your business. Connect with Courtney: Linked In | Instagram | PodLaunch HQ ©Ⓟ 2018–2025 by Courtney Elmer. All Rights Reserved.
What if one bad review was all it took to silence your podcast for a year? That's exactly what happened to bestselling author, investor, and financial literacy expert, Janine Mix. But instead of quitting, she came back stronger—revamping her show in a way that made it impossible for the right listeners to ignore.In this episode, Janine shares how to tell if your podcast is too broad, the biggest messaging mistake that stops listeners from hitting play, and how to create a podcast that commands attention and keeps your audience coming back. So if you're ready to create a must-listen show (and realize that rejection isn't the end—it's actually a sign you're on the right track), hit play and let's dive in.0:19 – The Fear That Keeps Listeners From Connecting With Your Podcast3:05 – How to Tell if You're Playing It Too Safe With Your Podcast8:04 – The Messaging Mistake That Keeps Listeners From Hitting Play15:24 – What to Do When Self-Doubt Stops You From Hitting Publish21:16 – How to Keep Showing Up When Growth Feels SlowEpisode Links:Check out Janine Mix's podcast: Permission to ProsperOther Episodes You'll Love:Steal My High-Converting Episode Framework→ This episode was recorded on the Deity VO-7USupport the showLiked this episode? Share it with a fellow podcaster! Love this show? Say thanks by leaving a positive review.Register for Courtney's Free Podcasting Workshop: How to 10x Your Business with a Podcast in 2025NEW! Schedule a 1:1 Podcasting Audit w/ Courtney (60-min paid session). Curious about PodLaunch®? Book a Free Discovery Call to see if our podcasting mentorship is the right fit for your business. Connect with Courtney: Linked In | Instagram | PodLaunch HQ ©Ⓟ 2018–2025 by Courtney Elmer. All Rights Reserved.
AI voice cloning sounds like the ultimate shortcut—efficiency, scale, and less time spent recording. But what happens when your listeners can tell the difference and it destroys their trust in you, costing you the credibility, growth, and authority you've worked so hard to build?I'm pulling back the curtain on the hidden dangers of AI voice cloning and why using it could be the biggest mistake you ever make with your podcast. You'll find out how AI is silently devaluing your expertise, why listeners always know when something feels off (and how that kills engagement), and the five things you should never outsource to AI—unless you want to blend in with everyone else.If you're serious about building a binge-worthy Top 100 podcast that actually grows your business (and being seen as the go-to authority in your niche) hit play and let's dive in.0:05 - AI Voice Cloning: The “Shortcut” That Could Kill Your Credibility0:22 - Can You Spot the Fake? Most People Can't (But Your Listeners Will)3:01 - The Hidden Cost of Outsourcing Your Voice6:30 - What Actually Builds Listener Loyalty (Hint: It's NOT Your Content)12:55 - Five Things You Should NEVER Let AI Touch—Unless You Want to Blend In→ This episode was recorded on the Deity VO-7USupport the showLiked this episode? Share it with a fellow podcaster! Love this show? Say thanks by leaving a positive review.Register for Courtney's Free Podcasting Workshop: How to 10x Your Business with a Podcast in 2025NEW! Schedule a 1:1 Podcasting Audit w/ Courtney (60-min paid session). Curious about PodLaunch®? Book a Free Discovery Call to see if our podcasting mentorship is the right fit for your business. Connect with Courtney: Linked In | Instagram | PodLaunch HQ ©Ⓟ 2018–2025 by Courtney Elmer. All Rights Reserved.
Video podcasting is everywhere. But does that mean your podcast needs it? Because let's be real: we both know that repurposing full-length episodes or posting random clips won't cut it if you actually want to grow your audience.In this episode, I'm back with Bryan Fittin of GoRogue Studios to break down the stupidly effective way to leverage video podcasting—aka the type of content that makes listeners fall in love with your show, the one thing you should be sharing to turn casual viewers into superfans, and why you don't need fancy production to grab attention.So if you don't want to hire a full production team, spend hours editing, or post content that looks great but doesn't actually drive listeners back to your show, hit play and let's dive in. 0:29 – Video Podcasting Won't Grow Your Show—But This Will0:54 – The Type of Content That Makes Listeners Fall in Love With You4:02 – Why the Smallest Moments Build the Biggest Audience16:15 – Why Low-Tech, Low-Production Video Delivers More Value Than You Think20:19 – The Best First Step If You're Stuck on What to PostEpisode Links:Connect with Bryan: GoRogueStudio.comOther Episodes You'll Enjoy:How Video Can Make (or Break) Your Podcast→ This episode was recorded on the Deity VO-7UHave a question about launching or growing a podcast you want me to answer on air? Shoot me a text!Support the showLiked this episode? Share it with a fellow podcaster! Love this show? Support the show or say thanks by leaving a positive review.Register for Courtney's Free Podcasting Workshop: How to 10x Your Business with a Podcast in 2025NEW! Schedule a 1:1 Podcasting Strategy Call w/ Courtney (60-min paid session). Curious about PodLaunch®? Book a Free Discovery Call to see if our podcasting mentorship is the right fit for your business. Connect with Courtney: Linked In | Instagram | PodLaunch HQ ©Ⓟ 2018–2025 by Courtney Elmer. All Rights Reserved.
Video podcasting is not the magic growth hack you've been sold. In fact, too many podcasters are finding out the hard way that adding video is costing them nothing but time, energy, and listeners.That's why I invited Bryan Fittin, founder of GoRogue Studios, to break down exactly what adding video can and can't do for your show—and the risks no one's talking about when you don't approach it strategically.We cover AI video editors (spoiler: they're not a shortcut), which platform is actually best for getting started with video (hint: it's not YouTube), and why adapting your podcast content for video takes more than flipping your iPhone around and hitting record.So if you're wondering whether video is the next big move for your podcast or another recipe for burnout, hit play and let's dive in.0:55 Why Video Podcasting Might Cost You More Than It Gains You8:45 The Truth About AI Video Editors (And Why They Won't Save You Time)12:15 The Best Platform for Video Podcasts (Hint: Not YouTube)17:40 Why You Can't Just Flip Your Camera and Hit Record21:30 Should You Add Video or Stick to Audio? Here's How to DecideEpisode Links:Connect with Bryan: GoRogueStudio.comOther Episodes You'll Enjoy:The Type of Content that Turns Podcast Listeners Into SuperfansSteal My High-Converting Episode FrameworkThe Pros & Cons of YouTube for Podcast GrowthWhy Audio-Only Podcasting Still Dominates→ This episode was recorded on the Deity VO-7UHave a question about launching or growing a podcast you want me to answer on air? Shoot me a text!Support the showLiked this episode? Share it with a fellow podcaster! Love this show? Support the show or say thanks by leaving a positive review.Register for Courtney's Free Podcasting Workshop: How to 10x Your Business with a Podcast in 2025NEW! Schedule a 1:1 Podcasting Strategy Call w/ Courtney (60-min paid session). Curious about PodLaunch®? Book a Free Discovery Call to see if our podcasting mentorship is the right fit for your business. Connect with Courtney: Linked In | Instagram | PodLaunch HQ ©Ⓟ 2018–2025 by Courtney Elmer. All Rights Reserved.
Think your podcast should be making you money by now? Here's why it's not—and what to do about it.In part two of this episode series, I'll help you set accurate expectations for podcast monetization whether you don't have an offer yet (or don't plan to), have an offer that's not converting, or have an offer that is converting and want to scale it.We'll unpack how your podcast serves you at each stage, the expectations you need to set, and the strategies that separate profitable podcasters from the ones stuck creating content that never pays off (literally). So if you're ready to build a podcast that actually drives revenue (without guessing, hoping, or waiting forever to see results) hit play and let's dive in.0:07 – What Separates Profitable Podcasters from the Rest6:16 – No Offer? Here's What to Focus on First17:35 – Have an Offer, But No Sales? Here's Why21:06 – Have a High-Converting Offer? Here's How Your Podcast Can Scale It29:50 – How to Align Your Podcast with Your Monetization GoalsOther Episodes You'll EnjoyYour Podcast Won't Drive Sales Without This→ This episode was recorded on the Deity VO-7UHave a question about launching or growing a podcast you want me to answer on air? Shoot me a text!Liked this episode? Share it and tag @thecourtneyelmer! Love this show? Say thanks by leaving a review.Register for Courtney's Free Podcasting Workshop: How to 10x Your Business with a Podcast in 2025NEW! Schedule a 1:1 Podcasting Strategy Call w/ Courtney (60-min paid session). Curious about PodLaunch®? Book a Free Discovery Call to see if our podcasting mentorship is the right fit for your business. Connect with Courtney: Linked In | Instagram | PodLaunch HQ ©Ⓟ 2018–2025 by Courtney Elmer. All Rights Reserved.
Most podcasters want to make money from their show. The problem? Too many assume that having a podcast and making money from it are one and the same—but they're not.In this two-part episode series, I'm breaking down how to bridge the gap between having the podcast and making money from it, with what you actually need to turn listeners into buyers. Plus, we'll unpack one of the biggest mistakes podcasters make that causes them to spend hours scripting, recording, and editing, only to refresh their analytics and see no new downloads and no new dollars in their bank account.So if you're ready to build a podcast that actually drives business growth without spending hundreds of hours creating episodes and not getting paid for it, hit play and let's dive in.0:04 – The Real Reason Your Podcast Isn't Paying You Yet4:50 – The Two Biggest Reasons People Never Make Money From Their Podcasts6:16 – Why a Podcast Won't Fix a Broken Offer (But Will Expose the Problem)9:37 – The Question That Determines If Your Podcast Will Make Money13:49 – How to Set Accurate Expectations for Podcast MonetizationOther Episodes You'll EnjoyWhat to Do When Your Podcast Isn't Converting→ This episode was recorded on the Deity VO-7UHave a question about launching or growing a podcast you want me to answer on air? Shoot me a text!Liked this episode? Share it and tag @thecourtneyelmer! Love this show? Say thanks by leaving a review.Register for Courtney's Free Podcasting Workshop: How to 10x Your Business with a Podcast in 2025NEW! Schedule a 1:1 Podcasting Strategy Call w/ Courtney (60-min paid session). Curious about PodLaunch®? Book a Free Discovery Call to see if our podcasting mentorship is the right fit for your business. Connect with Courtney: Linked In | Instagram | PodLaunch HQ ©Ⓟ 2018–2025 by Courtney Elmer. All Rights Reserved.
Send Us a Text MessageAlthough podcasts have been around since 2003, in many ways, the podcasting industry is still in its infancy, and we're yet to understand what's coming next. Thankfully, there are signs of what's to come! In this episode, 3 leading experts in the podcasting industry, Courtney Elmer, Joe Casabona, and Vinnie Potestivo, explain their predictions for podcasting's future. Get ready to understand how to position yourself to maximize your impact in podcasting as a guest or host!MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/316Chapters00:00 Introduction to the State of Podcasting02:15 Current Trends and Challenges in Podcasting04:37 Strategies for Organic Discovery08:22 Enhancing Recognition and Visibility19:06 Building Systems and Automations for Success24:20 Rapid Fire Insights for Podcasters29:48 The Future of PodcastingTakeawaysPodcasting is growing, but many podcasters quit early.SEO is crucial for organic discovery of podcasts.Consistency builds listener habits, not necessarily growth.IMDB can enhance discoverability for podcasters.Creating systems can save time and reduce stress.Focus on the problems your podcast solves for listeners.Engagement requires clear calls to action.The future of podcasting will involve AI-generated content.Authenticity and relatability will set podcasts apart.Building a community is more important than just growing an audience.MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/316
Business, Business and Education - Courtney Elmer | PodLaunch
It's here! ✨Black Friday✨ is the perfect time to take a step toward the parenting experience you've been dreaming of. Whether you're navigating big emotions, tackling everyday challenges, or looking for ways to connect more deeply with your kids, these two special offers are here to bring a little more ease and joy into your home.Option 1: $1890 Group coaching plan (Saving $810)Join a community of like-minded parents, all working towards the same goal: creating a more peaceful, positive home. Through shared experiences and expert guidance, you'll have the support you need to make parenting easier and more enjoyable.Option 2: Bundle of 5 one-on-one sessions for $499 ($250 savings)For those looking for personal support, this bundle is a great way to dive deep into the specific challenges and goals that matter most to you and your family. We'll work together to create lasting change that makes daily life feel lighter.In this episode, I highlighted how the Sustainable Parenting podcast was featured on Courtney Elmer's "Insider Secrets to Build a Top 100 Podcast". Here's the link, if you'd like to check out that episode. ✨Want more?1) Use this link for a FREE 20 min clarity call with Sustainable Parenting.2) Download the FREE pdf. on getting kids to listen
I know you're dedicating countless hours to creating content—emails, podcast episodes, social media posts; the list goes on and on. But the real question is, are you getting noticed amongst the noise or are you blending in? In today's episode, we're unlocking the secret to grabbing attention in a world where the average person's attention span is shorter than a goldfish. If you're ready to stop being a best-kept secret, this episode is for you!
In today's episode we team up with the brilliant Courtney Elmer, Founder & CEO of PodLaunch, to spill the beans on how to transform your podcast into a revenue-generating machine! After helping over 70+ business owners learn to launch a Top 100 podcast, she's a treasure full of #GoldenBoulders you don't want to miss: - The million $ question: how do we move people into buying your stuff. - Discover the key metrics for podcast success and how to properly use them for consistent growth and revenue. - What to look for in order to grow consistently and accurately. - How to set up your podcast for profits from day one, even if you already launched. If you're serious about taking your podcast to the next level and converting listeners into loyal fans and customers, this episode is a must-listen! Enjoy! Timestamps: 02:00 Proven formula boosts podcast rankings significantly. 06:56 Know your podcast's audience and their problems. 11:17 Base content on a real, specific person. 14:09 Expert podcasts solve specific problems, ensure audience retention. 16:27 Launch boosts visibility, aligns messaging, attracts listeners. 20:45 Use rankings to build consistent traffic growth. 22:58 Podcast for kids during drop-off, solving problems. 26:56 Focus on relationship building, not egocentric promotion. 28:00 Driving podcast listeners to action and generating revenue. 31:11 Trust builds belief, leading to conversion actions. 36:23 Measuring listening time: crucial for podcast performance insights. 37:18 Analyze listener data to tailor podcast content effectively. 42:38 Focus on consistently high-performing topics for traction. 46:27 Organize podcast details in a spreadsheet. Problem solved. 49:04 Shows create suspense to maintain audience interest. Connect with Courtney: Website Instagram LinkedIn Connect with Fonzi: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Twitter Connect with LUISDA: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Twitter Subscribe to the podcast on Youtube, Apple, Spotify, Google, Stitcher, or anywhere you listen to your podcasts. You can find this episode plus all previous episodes here. If this episode was helpful, please don't forget to leave us a review by clicking here, and share it with a friend.
Have a question about launching or growing your podcast? Shoot me a text!Liked this episode? Share it and tag @thecourtneyelmer Love the show? Leave a review Ready to become a Top 100 podcast host? Book a free strategy call NEW WORKSHOP: Insider Secrets to a Top 100 Podcast Connect with Court: Instagram | Linked In | Website
Most podcast hosts think high-quality episodes are enough to attract new listeners. But they're not. If you want to be the host of a top-ranked podcast, you need to know how to hook your listener *before* they hit play.Because having a bingeworthy podcast isn't just about keeping listeners' attention — it's about knowing how to grab it in the first place.In this episode, I'm breaking down three powerful ways to subconsciously communicate the value of your show to your potential listener. You'll also learn the five red flags to avoid when creating episode titles and why AI tools aren't helping your show stand out as much as you think.If you have a podcast or you're thinking of starting one, mastering this skillset will set you apart from 99% of other hosts who aren't doing this, so hit play and let's dive in.Other Episodes You'll Enjoy:How to Speak the Language of Your Ideal ListenerThe Best (and Worst) Ways to Use AI for Your Podcast→ This episode was recorded on the Deity VO-7UHave a question you want me to answer? Shoot me a text!Liked this episode? Share it and tag me @thecourtneyelmer Love the show? Leave a review and let us know Ready to launch + grow your Top 100 podcast? Book a free strategy call NEW! Live Workshop: Insider Secrets to a Top 100 Podcast Connect with Courtney: Website | Instagram | Linked In
Ever find yourself staring at your podcast analytics dashboard, wondering what to do with all that data? Maybe you check once a month to see if your downloads are increasing. But what if you knew how to decode your listener data to pinpoint exactly what your listeners want and unearth your most bingeworthy episode topics? Whether you've been podcasting for a while or you're just starting out, this episode will teach you how to use your data to craft content that keeps your current listeners hooked and helps you get discovered by new ones every week.Ready to turn your podcast analytics into a Magic 8-Ball that tells you what your listeners want most? Hit play and let's dive in.Episode Links:MowPod.comOther Episodes You'll Enjoy:The Down & Dirty Truth About Episode Length→ This episode was recorded on the Deity VO-7UHave a question you want me to answer? Shoot me a text!Liked this episode? Share it and tag me @thecourtneyelmer Love the show? Leave a review and let us know Ready to launch + grow your Top 100 podcast? Book a free strategy call NEW! Live Workshop: Insider Secrets to a Top 100 Podcast Connect with Courtney: Website | Instagram | Linked In
The biggest reason most hosts give up after Episode 6? They aren't seeing an ROI on the time and effort they're putting into their podcast.But the *real* reason they aren't seeing an ROI isn't because their show isn't good enough or there's too much competition — but because they don't know how to stand out against it. Think of it like this: you'd never spend a year or more writing a book, only to tell no one, hit “publish” on Amazon, and hope it becomes a bestseller, would you? Of course not. Yet this is how most people start their podcasts… and why they're shocked when their show only brings in less than 100 downloads an episode. That's why I invited mindset expert and podcast host Karen Powell to break down the key differences between hitting publish and launching a podcast — and what can happen when you have a strategic plan in place to build momentum from day one and get your show discovered by new listeners every day. The best part? This process will work whether you have an established podcast or you're just starting out,If you're ready to reach a global audience of listeners eager to hear your message, hit play and let's dive in.Other episodes you'll enjoy:EP 227 | Here's What Launching a Podcast Looks Like→ This episode was recorded on the Deity VO-7UHave a question you want me to answer? Shoot me a text!Liked this episode? Share it and tag me @thecourtneyelmer Love the show? Leave a review and let us knowReady to launch + grow your Top 100 podcast? Book a free strategy call NEW! Live Workshop: Insider Secrets to a Top 100 Podcast Connect with Courtney: Website | Instagram | Linked In
Tired of asking for reviews in every episode and hearing nothing but crickets? I mean, it's obvious from your analytics dashboard that people are listening to your show. People even tell you “omg I love your podcast” or “that episode was exactly what I needed to hear!”But STILL they won't take 30 seconds and leave a review. #rudeThat's because there's two types of reviews (and two types of behavior that drives them), and in this episode I'll unpack what they are and how to leverage them to your advantage so you can start getting the social proof on your show you deserve. Ready to see those five stars start rolling in so that you (and others!) know your show is worth the listen? Hit play and let's dive in.Episode Links:PodLotteryPodMatchOther Episodes You'll Enjoy: EP 238 | 4 Powerful Techniques to Keep Listeners Engaged EP 239 | The Real Reason Why Your Podcast Isn't Converting→ This episode was recorded on the Deity VO-7UHave a question you want me to answer? Shoot me a text!Liked this episode? Share it and tag me @thecourtneyelmer Love the show? Leave a review and let us knowReady to launch + grow your Top 100 podcast? Book a free strategy call NEW! Live Workshop: Insider Secrets to a Top 100 Podcast Connect with Courtney: Website | Instagram | Linked In
You know when you listen to a podcast episode and you're like, “This is creepy. It's like they made this just for me. How did they know I needed this?! Are they in my brain?! Woah. HOW DID THEY KNOW?!"(Well. It's me, hi. I'm doing it again).Look, no one (and I mean absolutely no one) starts a podcast and says, "I want to put all this effort in and get zero return."You *want* to reach millions with your message.You *want* a bingeworthy show that people rave about with their friends.And it sure would be nice to convert at least some of your listeners to clients and customers, wouldn't it?If you're like, ummm DUH, YES then pay close attention because you're about to learn how to drive more conversions from your podcast by learning how to communicate in a way that makes your listener pay attention while creating desire and demand for whatever program, product, or service you offer.My friend and mentor Brandon Lucero is a fellow top podcaster and a master at the art of persuasive communication, and I asked him to join us inside this bonus episode to show you the biggest reasons why your listeners aren't converting to clients — and how to fix these once and for all.Ready to get more listeners saying “OMG, you're in my head” and “How can I work with you?!” Hit play and let's dive in.Episode Links:The New Generation Entrepreneur Podcast with Brandon LuceroFollow Brandon on Instagram Other Episodes You'll Enjoy:EP 238 | 4 Powerful Techniques to Keep Listeners Engaged Throughout Every EpisodeEP 159 | 3 Surprising Content Mistakes that Are Costing You Clients → This episode was recorded on the Deity VO-7UHave a question you want me to answer? Shoot me a text!Liked this episode? Share it and tag me @thecourtneyelmer Love the show? Leave a review and let us knowReady to launch + grow your Top 100 podcast? Book a free strategy call NEW! Live Workshop: Insider Secrets to a Top 100 Podcast Connect with Courtney: Website | Instagram | Linked In
Have a question you want me to answer? Shoot me a text!If you want a podcast that thousands of people listen to, you first have to know how to get people to care about what you have to say.The problem? Most podcast hosts think “valuable content” is the key to growing an engaged podcast audience. So they teach as much as they can in every episode because they believe more information means more value.But it doesn't work like that. (If it did, then your listeners wouldn't lose interest and stop listening before finishing the episode).If you want to become a top podcast host, you need to learn how to speak your listener's language. This is why I invited top podcaster and communications expert Brandon Lucero to join me in this episode to show you four powerful ways you can hook your listeners in, keep them engaged, and drive more conversions from your podcast.[SPOILER ALERT] these four techniques will allow you to stop creating episodes that blend in with others, make listeners rave about your content, keep listeners coming back again and again to binge your episodes, and raise their hands asking how to work with you.If you don't want that, don't listen. But if you're ready to learn how, hit play and let's dive in.Episode Links:The New Generation Entrepreneur Podcast with Brandon LuceroFollow Brandon on Instagram Other Episodes You'll Enjoy:EP 236 | Steal My High-Converting Episode Framework→ This episode was recorded on the Deity VO-7ULiked this episode? Share it and tag me @thecourtneyelmer Love the show? Leave a review and let us knowWant our help to launch + grow your Top 100 podcast? Book a free strategy call and let's find out if we're a fit to work together. NEW! Join me for our next NO-PITCH Live Workshop: Insider Secrets to a Top 100 Podcast Get instant access to the weekly Own Your Voice digital newsletter with even more insider tips on how to rank and grow a Top 100 podcast that can converts your listeners to clients on repeat. Connect with Courtney: Website | Instagram | Linked In
"Do I really need a podcast editor? Or can I get by with one of those AI editing tools and call it a day?"This is a question I get asked all the time by people who value their time, and there's no shortage of opinions on this topic.But if you're a business owner who podcasts (or if you're someone who wants to turn your podcast into a business) there are some pros and cons you need to consider.I invited 2x bestselling author and award winning host Shawn Shewchuk to join me inside this episode, because he's helped over 12,500 entrepreneurs learn how to do more in less time — not by managing time, but by thinking about it differently.We're breaking down what you need think about as the CEO of your business (and your podcast) so that you can best answer this question based on your current stage in business, size of your team, unique business goals, and goals for your podcast.Ready to learn if editing your podcast is the best use of your time and energy during this stage of your podcasting journey? Hit play and let's dive in.→ This episode was recorded on the Deity VO-7UHave a question you want me to answer on air? Shoot me a text!Liked this episode? Share it and tag me @thecourtneyelmer Love the show? Leave a review and let us knowWant our help to launch + grow your Top 100 podcast? Book a free strategy call and let's find out if we're a fit to work together. NEW! Join me for our next NO-PITCH Live Workshop: Insider Secrets to a Top 100 Podcast Get instant access to the weekly Own Your Voice digital newsletter with even more insider tips on how to rank and grow a Top 100 podcast that can converts your listeners to clients on repeat. Connect with Courtney: Website | Instagram | Linked In
The biggest complaint I hear from experts who are using their podcast as a lead-gen tool is this:"No matter how much valuable content I give away for free in every episode, I still can't get listeners to convert to leads!"I get it, because I was once there too. You started your podcast to get more eyeballs on your business and your offers. And it's ridiculously frustrating to spend hours creating every episode only to have listeners tell you they love your show (but never ask how to work with you).After spending over 500+ hours studying what separates successful podcasts from the ones that fail (and helping 60+ business owners launch a Top 100 podcast that turns listeners into high-ticket clients), I've found there are three reasons why this happens...And inside this episode, I'm breaking down you're struggling to convert your listeners to leads from your podcast and show you how to create real desire and demand for whatever it is you offer... without having to give away everything you teach for free.Ready to find out why you're not converting as many listeners as you want to be and fix this problem once and for all? Hit play and let's dive in.→ This episode was recorded on the Deity VO-7UHave a question you want me to answer on air? Shoot me a text!Liked this episode? Share it and tag me @thecourtneyelmer Love the show? Leave a review and let us knowWant our help to launch + grow your Top 100 podcast? Book a free strategy call and let's find out if we're a fit to work together. NEW! Join me for our next NO-PITCH Live Workshop: Insider Secrets to a Top 100 Podcast Get instant access to the weekly Own Your Voice digital newsletter with even more insider tips on how to rank and grow a Top 100 podcast that can converts your listeners to clients on repeat. Connect with Courtney: Website | Instagram | Linked In
Ever wonder whether you should offer subscription-based bonus content on your podcast? Well, you're not alone.Sure, it has the potential to create a new income stream and provide even more value to your most engaged listeners — but it can sometimes be tough to tell if it's something your podcast will *actually* benefit from or if it's just another shiny object.In this episode of Listener Q +A, we're breaking down the pros and cons of subscription-based podcast content so you can decide if it's right for your podcast.I'll give you the answers you can't find on Google to questions like:→ "How do paid podcast subscriptions actually work?"→ "What are the pros and cons of offering paid podcast subscriptions?"→ "Will offering a paid podcast subscription help me increase listener engagement?"→ "Do paid podcast subscriptions count toward (or take away from) my total podcast downloads?"→ "How much can I ~really~ make from offering a paid podcast subscription?"...and more... Ready to find out if offering your listeners a paid podcast subscription is right for your podcast? Hit play and let's dive in.→ This episode was recorded on the Deity VO-7ULiked this episode? Share it and tag me @thecourtneyelmer Love the show? Leave a review and let us knowWant our help to launch + grow your Top 100 podcast? Book a free strategy call and let's find out if we're a fit to work together. NEW! Join me for our next NO-PITCH Live Workshop: Insider Secrets to a Top 100 Podcast Get instant access to the weekly Own Your Voice digital newsletter with even more insider tips on how to rank and grow a Top 100 podcast that can converts your listeners to clients on repeat. Connect with Courtney: Website | Instagram | Linked In