Links :
Beyond the Post Website: https://beyondthepost.fm
PodLink: https://pod.link
SMR Podcast: https://smrpodcast.com
Make sure to visit https://beyondthepost.fm for everything else—Patreon, our audio podcast, YouTube channel, and more!
In this episode, we dive into the intricacies of promoting a podcast effectively, particularly focusing on reaching out to those unfamiliar with the podcast medium. I recount the story of a client who, after producing around thirteen episodes, expressed difficulty in gaining traction with word-of-mouth promotion. The challenge lies in engaging people who are not already podcast listeners. This conversation reveals that it's not enough to merely inform someone about a show; we need to consider their familiarity with the platforms where podcasts reside.
As I reflected on the journey of helping my client build her podcast platform, it became clear that there were critical assumptions made about her familiarity with streaming apps like Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Many potential listeners may not know how to access podcasts if they don't fall within the seasoned podcast listener category. Similar to people who have never tried Netflix, these individuals might simply be unaware of how to access this form of media. Thus, it’s essential to offer guidance rather than just suggest that someone find and listen to our podcasts.
We further explore practical tips for introducing our shows to non-podcasters during in-person interactions. I emphasize the value of direct engagement in these situations and suggest demonstrating how to subscribe to the podcast right then and there. Using tools like QR codes allows listeners to easily access content without needing to navigate multiple platforms or remember complex details about show titles and where to find them. Presenting links that lead directly to a podcast in various applications enhances the likelihood of someone following through and actually listening.
Throughout our banter, I share my experience undergoing a personal transformation in how I discuss my podcast with others. I initially avoided mentioning it altogether, but now I realize it's a valuable opportunity to engage people, particularly when they express interests that align with the themes of my show. However, appropriate context matters; it’s essential to recognize when a conversation is not the right moment to make a pitch.
I also touch on the importance of repeated messaging when trying to get individuals to check out our shows. Just as with commercial viewership, listeners might need to hear about a podcast multiple times before taking action. Therefore, I advocate for consistently mentioning my podcast in casual conversations—after all, if I don’t promote my content, who will?
Our dialogue also leads to a discussion on building engagement through easy-to-access channels. I outline the necessity of making it as effortless as possible for potential listeners to find and subscribe to podcasts, utilizing QR codes and even dedicated links that lead to alternative listening platforms, ensuring a smoother onboarding process into our podcast universe.
Towards the end of the episode, I share an exciting personal update about the revival of one of my long-running podcasts, the SMR Podcast. After a six-month hiatus, we returned to the airwaves due to the encouragement from our community, underscoring the importance of listener feedback in shaping our podcasting journey.
Listeners can expect practical takeaways on how to share, promote, and engage with their audience more effectively, turning casual conversations into opportunities for new subscribers and fostering a vibrant community around their podcast.
Chapters:
00:00:00 BTP S3 E9 Timeline
00:00:30 Introduction to Podcasting Challenges
00:02:17 Overcoming Word-of-Mouth Barriers
00:04:23 Promoting Your Podcast Effectively
00:07:30 The Importance of Repetition
00:09:23 Showing vs. Telling: Getting Listeners
00:12:27 The Allison Maneuver: A Bold Approach
00:14:49 Advocating for Fellow Creators
00:18:23 The Return of SMR Podcast
00:22:23 Wrapping Up: Finding Our Show