Prologue
The 1-Star Review
Let's get real about reviews ... good and bad.
The bad ones hurt, but here's something for you to consider the next time one comes through ...
Bad reviews can actually help your podcast.
It's the "bad" reviews that provide contrast to the good ones. Too many good reviews and they'll work against you, because people assume they're fake. Even a single review that's critical of your podcast lets people know the reviewing system is working.
If you do get a bad review, never do this ...
Don't argue with the person who left the review. Don't try to convince anybody of something else.
Apologize if you need to, then analyze the critique without being emotional and make changes if needed. But don't let a critical review keep you from delivering the content you want to deliver, how you want to deliver it—your podcast isn't for everybody.
Got a "bad review" story? I'm putting together an episode about reviews and would love to hear it ... Reach out to me via Mastodon, Bluesky, or Threads.
A challenge for you ... If you like a podcast, leave a positive review. Apple Podcasts is the top destination for this, but Podchaser is another great option.
Sponsor
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Podcaster Opportunities
Yet Another Social Network ...
This is a new social network developed by the people at Sticker Mule.
Yeah, I know. I thought the same thing. But I join all new social networks to reserve my name—you never know when one will take off.
The "hook" seems to be, because all users are verified via automation, that there's less spam and friendlier conversation. I think it's too early to tell how that plan will work out, but reserve your name just to be sure, since a lot of people would love to see a friendly place online.
If you join, say hello!
Podcasting Tools
Who is Listening to Your Podcast?
Find similar podcasts (with similar audiences) with this interactive audience graph.
This is a great tool if you're looking for:
- cross-promotion partners
- potential guesting opportunities
- trends related to the topic of your podcast
It also makes for a great screenshot for social media!
Not subscribed to Build a Big Podcast yet? Make it happen.
Podcast Humor
It's Not Easy (But There is Ease)
When done right, we make podcasting look easy. Because of this, a lot of people think it is easy.
It's not. But there is ease in podcasting.
Some thoughts on how to do this ...
- Be Prepared - You can't prepare for everything, especially if you're doing an interview, but do whatever you need to feel comfortable before you hit record. For example, if you feel you need a pre-interview, get it. It's your show and you don't have to explain or justify why.
- Segment Your Episodes - You may find it helpful to break your episode into smaller, manageable segments. Even if you don't need "commercial breaks" within your episodes, this format allows for natural pauses and can make the recording process feel less overwhelming. Short breaks (just a couple of minutes) between recording also give you time to review what you've just recorded think through your next segment.
- Equipment Familiarity - Get comfortable with your recording equipment. Practice using your microphone, headphones, and recording software. Being at ease with your tools can significantly reduce recording anxiety.
And a BONUS TIP for you ...
Breathe.
Yeah, it sounds obvious, but I've found from my work coaching hosts of all types that it's easy to get caught up in a moment and either forget to breathe or talk so fast you start breathing in a way that's different from what you normally do, which can throw off your speaking voice. For example, if you start breathing through your mouth, the air you take in can dry our your throat, causing you to lose your voice.
What do you do to stay calm in the studio? Let me know via Mastodon, Bluesky, or Threads.
The Business of Podcasting
Never Start With Zero
I love the concept of "initial momentum." I talked about this in my book, Big Podcast—even a brand new podcaster who has never been behind the mic is still bringing important skills and knowledge to the table.
Nobody ever really starts with nothing. Even a young baby comes into the world with inherited characteristics and genetics that can be helpful for something.
If you're interested in this topic, you will enjoy this article on initial momentum.
Classifieds
Riverside - Remote Recording Studio
Riverside records high-quality audio (and video) directly from your browser. No special equipment is needed and connecting with your guest is as simple as sending a web link!
You can try Riverside free (no credit card is needed) and, if you like it, save 15% on any paid plan by using the coupon code BIGPODCAST.
Swell AI
Swell AI automates writing podcast summaries, articles, social posts, and more.
- Manage multiple shows in one dashboard.
- Build custom templates for each show.
- Connects with Google Drive, Dropbox, and Zoom.
Podpage
Join over 25,000 podcasters and automatically create a beautiful, listener-friendly podcast site from your RSS feed.
Podpage is the simplest way to create a podcast website.
The Wrap Up
When you're ready, here's how I can help you even more ...
If you want the shortcut to building a podcast people care about, here’s how Big Podcast can help you …
Free of charge ...
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- Podcast Growth Toolkit – The "Swiss Army Knife" of podcasting ...
For budgets under $750 …
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For budgets of $3000 or more …
We offer a range of podcasting services including:
- Full-service podcast production and marketing
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