Unconventional Podcasting Wisdom to Break the Mold for Success

03/15/24 • 4 min

“In order to be irreplaceable one must always be different.”

– Coco Chanel

You’re a podcaster. You love creating your show. But sometimes marketing and promotion to stand out can feel like an insurmountable challenge. With so many podcasts (YouTube videos, television shows, radio stations, books, and blogs) vying for an audience’s attention, how can you make sure your podcast doesn’t get lost in the noise?

While traditional advice like “know your audience” and “invest in quality equipment” are important, I’ve been thinking a lot lately about unconventional approaches to help you make a mark.

Here are some out-of-the-box tips for podcasters looking to break the mold and find success in this competitive landscape:

1. EMBRACE IMPERFECTION

Perfectionism can be the enemy of progress, especially in the world of podcasting. Instead of agonizing over every “um” and “uh,” embrace the raw and authentic nature of your content. Some of the most beloved podcasts are praised precisely because they feel like intimate conversations rather than scripted performances. Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through, flaws and all.

2. EXPERIMENT WITH FORMAT

Who says a podcast has to follow a strict interview or storytelling format? Get creative and experiment with different structures and styles. Maybe you want to incorporate elements of improv comedy, or perhaps you’re interested in creating an audio collage of soundscapes and music. The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to think outside the box and push the boundaries of what a podcast can be.

Six months ago, I transformed the Inspired Money podcast from a conventional pre-recorded one-on-one interview show to a livestream with three or four guest panelists. It’s been fun, challenging, and refreshing. I like to say having four guests is like a normal podcast on steroids. Embrace experimentation.

3. CULTIVATE A NICHE WITHIN A NICHE

In a crowded market, finding your niche is crucial. But why stop there? Instead of simply focusing on a broad topic like “true crime” or “self-improvement,” dig deeper to carve out a niche within that niche. Maybe you’re passionate about true crime stories with a supernatural twist, or perhaps you have a unique perspective on mindfulness and meditation. By honing in on a specific angle or theme, you can attract a dedicated audience who shares your interests.

4. COLLABORATE, DON’T COMPETE

Instead of viewing other podcasters as competitors, see them as potential collaborators. Reach out to fellow creators in your niche and explore opportunities for cross-promotion, guest appearances, or even co-hosted episodes. Not only does this expand your reach and introduce your show to new audiences, but it also fosters a sense of community within the podcasting world.

5. FOCUS ON ENGAGEMENT, NOT NUMBERS

It’s easy to get caught up in metrics like download numbers and subscriber counts, but true success in podcasting goes beyond mere statistics. Instead of fixating on quantity, prioritize quality engagement with your audience. Respond to listener feedback, foster meaningful conversations on social media, and create opportunities for your audience to participate in the content creation process. Building a loyal and engaged community around your podcast is far more valuable than chasing fleeting metrics.

6. DON’T BE AFRAID TO PIVOT

Finally, remember that flexibility is key for any creator. If something isn’t working, don’t be afraid to pivot and try something new. Your podcasting journey is a marathon, not a sprint. It’s okay to course-correct along the way.

In a world where conformity often reigns supreme, embracing your uniqueness as a podcaster can be your greatest asset. By daring to be different and embracing unconventional approaches, you can create a podcast that not only stands out but also leaves a lasting impression on your listeners. So go ahead, break the mold, and let your creativity soar.

The podcasting world is waiting for your uniqueness to shine brightly.

Mentioned in this episode:

Join and Subscribe

Visit www.podcastgym.com/newsletter to joing our community and subscribe to the Podcast Stronger newsletter.

“In order to be irreplaceable one must always be different.”

– Coco Chanel

While traditional advice like “know your audience” and “invest in quality equipment” are important, I’ve been thinking a lot lately about unconventional approaches to help you make a mark.

Here are some out-of-the-box tips for podcasters looking to break the mold and find success in this competitive landscape:

1. EMBRACE IMPERFECTION

2. EXPERIMENT WITH FORMAT

3. CULTIVATE A NICHE WITHIN A NICHE

4. COLLABORATE, DON’T COMPETE

5. FOCUS ON ENGAGEMENT, NOT NUMBERS

6. DON’T BE AFRAID TO PIVOT

The podcasting world is waiting for your uniqueness to shine brightly.

Mentioned in this episode:

Join and Subscribe

Visit www.podcastgym.com/newsletter to joing our community and subscribe to the Podcast Stronger newsletter.

Previous Episode

Boost Your Podcast's Reach by Repurposing Content on TikTok, IG, and YouTube

In the vast landscape of digital content creation, podcasters are constantly seeking innovative ways to expand their reach and engage with new audiences. One strategy that has gained significant traction is repurposing podcast content into short form videos for platforms like YouTube Shorts, Instagram Reels, and TikTok. While this effort may not immediately increase podcast downloads, there are numerous benefits to this approach that can elevate awareness and take your podcast to new heights.

Broader Audience Engagement: Creating short form videos allows you to tap into different demographics and preferences. Some people prefer quick and visually engaging content over longer audio formats, so repurposing your podcast into bite-sized videos can attract a broader audience base.
Increased Social Media Visibility: Social media algorithms favor video content, and platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok actively promote short form videos. By sharing your podcast highlights or interesting snippets on these platforms, you can leverage their algorithms to increase visibility and reach a larger audience.
Viral Potential: Consistently publishing short form videos increases the chances of hitting content that resonates with a wider audience and goes viral. A single viral video can bring an influx of attention to your podcast, leading to increased brand recognition and potential listeners.
Showcasing Personality and Expertise: Short form videos provide an excellent opportunity to showcase the personality behind the podcast and highlight your expertise on specific topics. This personal touch can create a stronger connection with your audience, making them more likely to explore and subscribe to your podcast for more in-depth content.
Cross-Promotion Opportunities: Repurposing content for different platforms opens up opportunities for cross-promotion. You can encourage your podcast audience to follow you on social media for exclusive clips and updates, and vice versa. This interconnected approach helps in building a community around your podcast.

MY RESULTS

Growing a podcast’s downloads can feel like an uphill battle, given the fierce competition for attention. The power of short form videos lies in their potential to break through the noise. Virality is unpredictable, but by consistently sharing engaging snippets, you increase the likelihood of capturing the attention of a wider audience. Even if not every video goes viral, the cumulative effect can significantly elevate your podcast’s overall visibility and attract new listeners.

Over 90 days, I’ve posted a couple dozen short form videos on social media. Please don’t laugh at my modest follower counts!

In my experience, I’ve found that views are highly unpredictable. There’s no way to predict which video will perform best on each platform. The same video will do well on TikTok and not do anything on IG. The next video will do well on YouTube but not TikTok.

Cumulatively, the views add up.

TikTok 10,632

Instagram Reels 9,712

YouTube Shorts. 5,269

OPUS CLIP – AI VIDEO CLIPPING TOOL

I recently discovered Opus Clip an AI tool that makes creating shorts that saves me a lot of time!

Here’s how it works.

Drop a YouTube link (or Rumble link, Zoom link, Google Drive link, or select a file MP4, MOV, WEBM)

It previously took me 30-60 minutes to create 1-3 clips using a video editor, but Opus created 25-30 clips from my hour long video episode in a matter of minutes!

FEATURES

Opus automatically creates each clip with captions, assigns and ranks them by a Viral Score: The likelihood that this video will go viral on Short/TikTok/Reels
You can edit clips by editing the transcript (including roughly 30 seconds before and after)
You may link social accounts and share directly from Opus
There is an integration with Adobe Premiere so you can export an XML file (Davinci Resolve is coming, if not available already)
You may download an HD clip to your local drive

PRICING

Starter For individual creators $9 USD/month for 150 processing minutes per month

Pro (LIMITED TIME: SAVE 67%) For professional creators, marketers, and teams

$9.5 USD/month (Regular $29 USD/month) $114 billed annually for 3600 proc...

Next Episode

Why Podcasting Isn't Dying: A Resilient Medium Thriving Against All Odds

Recent headlines have been quick to proclaim the demise of podcasting, citing layoffs at major platforms like Spotify and Public Radio. Yet, amidst the tumult, there lies a different narrative – one of resilience and growth. Contrary to naysayers, podcasting is not dying; it’s evolving, adapting, and flourishing in unexpected ways. In this post, we’ll explore why podcasting remains a vibrant medium, despite challenges, and discuss strategies for monetization and success.

THE RESILIENCE OF INDEPENDENT PODCASTS

While it’s true that some major players in the podcasting industry have faced setbacks, independent podcasts have continued to thrive. These grassroots creators epitomize the essence of podcasting – a platform where anyone with a microphone and a story can find an audience. Unlike traditional media, where gatekeepers control access, podcasting offers a level playing field for creators of all backgrounds and interests.

Independent podcasts often have loyal and engaged audiences, built through authenticity, niche content, and community engagement. Unlike corporate giants, these creators are nimble, able to pivot quickly in response to audience feedback, and can produce content with little to no budget. Moreover, they’re not beholden to shareholders or advertisers, allowing them to maintain creative control and pursue their passions without compromise.

PODCAST LISTENING IS UP

According to the Infinite Dial 2024 report by Edison Research, the podcast landscape is witnessing significant shifts, with nearly 100 million Americans engaging with podcasts weekly. Despite concerns over a decline in downloads due to alterations in Apple iOS 17, indicating a drop in figures for major podcasts like This American Life, Edison’s survey-based findings present a more nuanced perspective. Contrary to download metrics, Edison’s data reveals a positive trend, with 47 percent of Americans aged 12 and above tuning into podcasts monthly, marking a five-point increase from the previous year, the largest jump since 2019. Moreover, weekly listeners have increased from 31 to 34 percent, estimating around 98 million individuals. By relying on survey data rather than raw downloads, Edison’s report offers insight into the evolving podcast landscape, underscoring its integration into mainstream media consumption habits. Additionally, the report touches on various other trends such as social media usage, smart speaker ownership, and audiobook consumption, providing a comprehensive view of the evolving media landscape.

MONETIZATION STRATEGIES FOR PODCASTERS

For those looking to monetize their podcasts, there are numerous avenues to explore:

Advertising and Sponsorships: While recent layoffs at major platforms might suggest a slowdown in advertising revenue, independent podcasters are still attracting sponsors. By cultivating a dedicated audience and producing high-quality content, podcasters can command competitive advertising rates or secure sponsorship deals with brands aligned with their niche.
Crowdfunding and Patronage: Platforms like Patreon have empowered podcasters to monetize directly from their audience. By offering exclusive content, merchandise, or behind-the-scenes access, creators can incentivize listeners to support them financially. This model not only provides a steady stream of income but also fosters a deeper connection with fans.
Merchandise Sales: From t-shirts to mugs to stickers, merchandise sales offer another revenue stream for podcasters. By leveraging their brand and creating unique, appealing products, creators can turn their listeners into loyal customers while generating supplementary income.
Live Events and Ticket Sales: Especially post-pandemic, live events present an exciting opportunity for podcasters to engage with their audience in person. Whether it’s live recordings, Q&A sessions, or meet-and-greets, these events not only generate revenue but also strengthen the bond between creators and fans.
Premium Content and Subscriptions: Some podcasters opt for a subscription-based model, offering premium content or ad-free episodes to subscribers for a monthly fee. This approach provides a predictable income stream while rewarding loyal listeners with exclusive perks.

CONCLUSION

Despite the challenges faced by the podcasting industry, it’s clear that the medium is far from dying. Independent creators continue to produce innovative and compelling content, forging meaningful connections with audiences around the world. By embracing new monetization strategies and staying true to their vision, podcasters can thrive in this dynamic and ever-evolving ...