Podcasting Insights: podcast growth advice for indie creators

Beehiiv are targeting podcasters with offers to join their new creator platform. But is this the solution podcasters have been waiting for?Link to check out their teased offer: https://www.beehiiv.com/beehiiv-for/podcasters

Diary of a CEO is doing something genuinely damaging to indie podcasters. Not maliciously. The damage is the business model.Hi, I'm Neal Veglio, The Podmaster.In this episode, I'm breaking down exactly why comparing your show to mega-podcasts like Diary of a CEO, High Performance Podcast, and Young and Profiting isn't just unhelpful — it's statistically irrational.Using Phil Rosenzweig's Halo Effect, Nassim Taleb's Silent Graveyard, the Columbia Music Lab experiment, and Daniel Kahneman's narrative fallacy, I'll explain the intellectual architecture behind why these shows exist, who they're actually designed to serve, and why their 'success strategies' are largely retrospective fiction.You'll hear why the gap between what these shows promise and what they can actually deliver is not a flaw — it's the product.Also in this episode:Listener email: Do you actually need a trailer episode before you launch?Experiment: Listen back to your three most downloaded episodes and steal from yourself.If you've been measuring your show against something that was never real — head to podmastery.co and click 'Get your podcasting challenge solved'.Useful links:Phil Rosenzweig's The Halo Effect summarised: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=klngdRa8nOINassim Taleb's Fooled by Randomness: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Fooled-Randomness-Hidden-Chance-Markets/dp/0141031484The music lab study: https://www.princeton.edu/~mjs3/salganik_dodds_watts06_full.pdf

A lot of people are excited about AI tools that promise instant, studio-quality podcast audio.Record on your phone. Click a button. Sound professional.But that story deserves a closer look.Hi, I'm Neal Veglio, founder of Podknows Podcasting and the Podmastery community.In this episode of Podcasting Insights, I unpack what happens when technology starts erasing the difference between effort and outcome — and ask what podcasting quietly loses when “good sound” becomes a default instead of a craft.This isn’t an anti-AI rant.And it’s not about gatekeeping beginners.It’s about incentives.Standards.And what we’re rewarding at scale.You’ll learn:• Why AI audio tools raise standards and lower effort at the same time• How one-click fixes create a podcasting “house sound”• The difference between accessibility and erasing craft• Why effort still matters, even when listeners can’t hear it• The question creators should be asking before relying on AI cleanupLinks:Waves Voice Regen:https://www.waves.com/voice-regenI’d love YOUR feedback:https://www.podmastery.co/surveyI’ve been doing this for 20+ years and run a successful podcast marketing agency.Want me to audit your podcast?https://podmastery.co/liteMentioned in this episode:A Podknows ProductionPodknows helps brands and creators to build their podcasts into virtual sales and marketing teams which get them results even when they're sleeping. Find out more at https://podknows.co.uk/

A lot of people are saying video is the future of podcasting.That video is the gateway drug — the thing that creates new podcast listeners.But that story deserves a closer look.In this episode of Podcasting Insights, I question the growing narrative around video podcasting, discovery, and conversion — and ask whether we’re confusing reach with commitment, and visibility with attention.This isn’t about dismissing the data.It’s about questioning the story we’re telling around it.You’ll learn:• Why “discovery” is an incomplete metric• The difference between conversion and gravity• Why video often benefits from defaults, not desire• What podcasting’s real strength has always been• The question creators should be asking instead of “Should I do video?”Links:Podnews story on charting clips based podcast:https://podnews.net/update/complete-rankersEdison Research – The Evolving Ear:https://www.edisonresearch.com/how-new-consumers-are-shaping-podcastings-next-chapter-the-evolving-ear-webinar/I’d love YOUR feedback:https://www.podmastery.co/surveyI've been doing this 20+ years and run a successful podcast marketing agency. Want me to audit your podcast?https://podmastery.co/liteMentioned in this episode:A Podknows ProductionPodknows helps brands and creators to build their podcasts into virtual sales and marketing teams which get them results even when they're sleeping. Find out more at https://podknows.co.uk/

A lot of podcasters don’t actually need any kind of new strategy.They just need honest podcast feedback that tells them what it actually feels like to listen.In this episode of Podcasting Insights, I explain why so many shows stall at “fine,” why polite feedback keeps podcasts forgettable, and how growth usually comes from being braver with what already exists.You’ll learn:• Why “competent” podcasts struggle to grow• The real question listeners ask in the first 30 seconds• Why delivery matters more than structure• How feedback beats endless strategy tweaksLinks:I'd love YOUR feedback: https://www.podmastery.co/surveyhttps://podmastery.cohttps://podmastery.co/liteMentioned in this episode:A Podknows ProductionPodknows helps brands and creators to build their podcasts into virtual sales and marketing teams which get them results even when they're sleeping. Find out more at https://podknows.co.uk/

Seriously. It's become a buzzword of basic b*tch podcast coaching.Evergreen podcast content is definitely not timeless.It is just content you have not looked at in ages.If your back catalogue feels a bit… awkward, this episode is for you.Not because you need more episodes.Because you probably need to stop pretending.Hi, I’m Neal Veglio, and in this episode of Podcasting Insights, I’m breaking down why “evergreen” became a polite way of saying “I’m never thinking about this again”, and what to do instead.In this episode, I cover:What evergreen was supposed to mean, and what it turned intoWhy podcasters stop sharing old episodes (it gets weirdly emotional)How to reintroduce older episodes without pretending they’re newHow to update the context without rewriting historyWhen to let an episode die, on purposeA practical idea using Captivate or Buzzsprout to dynamically inject fresh audio into old episodesIf you have episodes you avoid because they make you cringe a bit, or because you mentioned a tool that no longer exists, you’re not broken.You’ve just progressed.Now treat the work you already did with a bit more honesty.Links: 🔗 Podmastery site – https://podmastery.co 🔗 Book a Podcast Audit – https://podmastery.co/liteMentioned in this episode:A Podknows ProductionPodknows helps brands and creators to build their podcasts into virtual sales and marketing teams which get them results even when they're sleeping. Find out more at https://podknows.co.uk/

Most podcasts don’t struggle because the ideas aren’t good.They struggle because the release schedule quietly starts to drain the energy out of them.Somewhere early on, a lot of podcasters decide they probably 'should' be weekly.Not because it makes sense.Because it feels serious.In this episode, I talk about why recording less can actually make your podcast better.I also share a simple way to decide your schedule based on intent, not pressure, and explain why consistency isn’t about never missing a release day. It's about something far deeper.If your podcast is starting to feel heavy, rushed, or obligation-driven, this episode will help you reset without disappearing.Chapters00:00 – You Probably Overcommitted (And You Know It)00:53 – Why Weekly Feels “Serious” (But Usually Isn’t Thought Through)01:36 – The Guilt Loop That Quietly Ruins Podcasts02:12 – Recording From Obligation vs Recording With Intent02:47 – What Actually Happened When I Missed Episodes03:19 – The Spotlight Effect (And Why No One’s Watching You That Closely)03:53 – Frequency Doesn’t Build Trust. Intent Does04:15 – What Listeners Really Respond To05:07 – Consistency vs Frequency (They’re Not the Same Thing)05:50 – Recording Less Without Disappearing06:46 – Choosing a Schedule That Actually Fits You07:27 – Why People Forget Podcasts (And It’s Not Because You Missed a Week)Links:🔗 Podmastery site – https://podmastery.co🔗 Book a Podcast Audit – https://podmastery.co/liteMentioned in this episode:ChaptersThis podcast uses chapters on apps that support them.A Podknows ProductionPodknows helps brands and creators to build their podcasts into virtual sales and marketing teams which get them results even when they're sleeping. Find out more at https://podknows.co.uk/Book your Podmaster auditWanna get unstuck from the sub 100 downloads per month doldrums. Fancy getting closer to top 2% podcaster glory? Sounds like you need one of my Podmaster audits. Go to podmastery.co/lite and within 5 business days you’ll get a full video and written report on my findings. That's podmastery.co/lite Podmaster audit

Most podcasts don’t lose listeners because the content is bad — they lose them because trust gets broken quietly.Every time someone presses play, they’re making a small agreement with you.And most podcasts break it without even realising.In this episode, I unpack the idea of the “quiet agreement” — and why most if not all small podcasts break it, at least at first.I also share a simple test you can run on yourself to check whether your episodes earn the next listen.If you want your podcast to feel intentional, human, and worth sticking with — this episode will change how you think about every minute you record.Links:🔗 Podmastery site – https://podmastery.co🔗 Book a Podcast Audit – https://podmastery.co/liteMentioned in this episode:Book your Podmaster auditWanna get unstuck from the sub 100 downloads per month doldrums. Fancy getting closer to top 2% podcaster glory? Sounds like you need one of my Podmaster audits. Go to podmastery.co/lite and within 5 business days you’ll get a full video and written report on my findings. That's podmastery.co/lite Podmaster auditA Podknows ProductionPodknows helps brands and creators to build their podcasts into virtual sales and marketing teams which get them results even when they're sleeping. Find out more at https://podknows.co.uk/ChaptersThis podcast uses chapters on apps that support them.

Most podcasts sound the same — and it's killing your growth.If your show blends into the feed, this episode breaks down exactly why… and what to change.In this episode you’ll learn:Why copying “successful” shows usually backfiresThe #1 format mistake (hint: your guest intro)How to build episodes around pain pointsWhy packaging matters more than you thinkThe simple rule for titles, intros and structureLinks:🔗 Podmastery site – https://podmastery.co🔗 Book a Podcast Audit – https://podmastery.co/liteMentioned in this episode:ChaptersThis podcast uses chapters on apps that support them.A Podknows ProductionPodknows helps brands and creators to build their podcasts into virtual sales and marketing teams which get them results even when they're sleeping. Find out more at https://podknows.co.uk/Save hours on your editingWant to cut hours out of your production workflow? Whether you're a podcaster, YouTuber or even a professional content creator, this tool will get you back your life! (Note - although this is an affiliate, I don't recommend any tools I don't use myself. And I use this DAILY)Simplify your editingBook your Podmaster auditWanna get unstuck from the sub 100 downloads per month doldrums. Fancy getting closer to top 2% podcaster glory? Sounds like you need one of my Podmaster audits. Go to podmastery.co/lite and within 5 business days you’ll get a full video and written report on my findings. That's podmastery.co/lite Podmaster audit

Consistency. The word that sends podcasting “gurus” into fits of self-righteous joy as they pedal their courses and services. Think about it—how many times have you been told you have to publish your podcast on the same day, every week, at the exact same time? Some of you are still clutching your calendar and sweating because you’ve missed a Thursday morning release and assume your show’s doomed.Today, I’m slapping the nonsense out of that belief.

In this episode:This podcast is taking a new direction. Audience is split; creators want craft, while marketers crave strategy. A brand new show called B2B Podcasting Insights is launching for the business-minded listeners. Podcasting Insights will still be your creative haven, sans the marketing jargon. Expect shorter, punchy episodes that dive into serious ROI without the fluffy stuff. Next week, we'll chat about why consistency in podcasting might just be overrated.

You know that thing where you give everyone else great podcast advice… and then ignore it yourself?Yeah. That.In this episode, I’m calling myself out. And fixing my own podcast strategy in public. I realised my show had drifted, lost focus, and wasn’t clear who it was really for. So I’m stripping it back, rebuilding the positioning, and showing you exactly how to get clarity on your own audience too.If you’ve ever wondered whether your show’s serving the right people, or just shouting into the void then this one’s for you.You’ll learn:🎯 How to define your podcast audience (for real)🚫 What to cut ⚖️ The balance between craft, creator joy, and cash in the bank🔁 How to rebuild a show without starting from scratch👉 Site: https://podmastery.co👉 Contact: https://podmastery.co/contact👉 Leave me a voicemail: https://podmastery.co/voicemailMentioned in this episode:A Podknows ProductionPodknows helps brands and creators to build their podcasts into virtual sales and marketing teams which get them results even when they're sleeping. Find out more at https://podknows.co.uk/

If you're fed up with hearing people insist you "need to put your podcast on YouTube", this episode will give you a sense of relief. I've just come back from judging the Independent Podcast Awards and spent time with some of the best indie creators around. What struck me wasn't how eager they were to jump on video, but how quickly the myth started to unravel once we looked at what video actually costs independent podcasters, in cash, energy, and lost focus. This episode is all about unpacking the hard truth behind the "you must do video to grow" narrative and how most audio-first shows are actually better off keeping their attention on what already works. I share a case study of a winning indie show, Floating Space, and its host’s reaction when I pushed back on video hype and explained why going all-in on YouTube rarely delivers for indies who aren’t looking to become full-time video editors. There’s plenty here that you won’t find in any of the LinkedIn gurus’ posts, and you’ll walk away understanding why "discovery" isn't just about being searchable—it's about being findable and worth listening to.Chapters:00:00 The Video Myth02:00 Hype vs Reality05:00 Awards Night penny-drop08:00 “But you publish video…”11:00 What to do instead15:00 7-day focusPodcast Improvement Audit (Lite): https://podmastery.co/lite

AI makes it easy to ship more… of nothing. Here’s why “slop-casting” is flattening audio and how to outplay it with Voice, Value, and Vulnerability. Bonus: suggestion for a simple A/B experiment you can do today to audit your soul in the feed. Prefer an actual audit with me? Book here: podmastery.co/lite.Mentioned in this episode:A Podknows ProductionPodknows helps brands and creators to build their podcasts into virtual sales and marketing teams which get them results even when they're sleeping. Find out more at https://podknows.co.uk/

There’s a hard truth most podcast experts will dodge, but I don’t have the energy or patience for avoiding it - there’s a reason your podcast audience isn’t growing, and it’s not because you haven’t been hustling hard enough on LinkedIn or spamming your socials. Look, I see it over and over; brand new podcasters with all the energy in the world, launching their show and immediately going full throttle with promotion before even figuring out whether the content’s actually any good. In this episode of Podcasting Insights, I lay out why that’s a sure-fire way to set yourself up for repeated disappointment and burnout. Instead, I’ll walk you through my entire approach for building podcasts people actually want to talk about, and not just because you begged them to on LinkedIn. We get into why promotion isn’t the lever you pull first, what actually matters to develop a show that holds attention, and what I make every client face up to before they spend a penny (or another hour) trying to chase down listeners.00:00 Why Your Promotion is in Reverse!04:53 Integrity and Strategic Success07:34 "Building Loyal, Valuable Audiences"12:57 Silent Launch Strategy Advice13:59 Proof Before Promotion StrategyUseful links:Get your audit - https://podmastery.co/liteSee your Apple Podcasts retention data: https://podcastsconnect.apple.com/ Spotify dashboard: https://podcasters.spotify.com/gatewayFind all episodes of Podcasting Insights: https://www.podmastery.co/Tom Webster's The Audience Is Listening: https://audienceislisteningbook.com/Mentioned in this episode:A Podknows ProductionPodknows helps brands and creators to build their podcasts into virtual sales and marketing teams which get them results even when they're sleeping. Find out more at https://podknows.co.uk/Show Notes SimplifiedAre you sick of having to write out your episode descriptions (show notes) from scratch every time? Want to set up a templated approach that will save you hours every week? This tool is for you! (Note - this is an affiliate offer, but I don't recommend tools I'm not using myself, and I use this one DAILY)Simplify your show notes

Rapper's Delight might be the anthem we often think of when it comes to hip hop's origins, but let me hit you with a plot twist – it wasn’t the first. That honor actually goes to a gospel group called the Jubilees, who dropped a rap-like hit back in 1946! Wild, right? This kick-off leads us into a deep dive about the real essence of being ‘first’ in the podcasting world. It’s not just about who got there first; it’s about who can break through the noise and grab attention. We’ve all seen the podcasters vying to become the next ‘Diary of a CEO’ but spoiler alert: that’s a one-way ticket to nowhere. Instead, let’s focus on carving out our unique space. How do we find our own ‘Rapper’s Delight’ moment? It’s all about framing our conversations in a way that makes our audience stop, listen, and think, ‘wow, this is fresh!’ We chat about flipping the format, leading with tension, and showing up authentically. The takeaway? Don’t worry about being first or copying others; instead, aim to be the one who resonates. Let’s turn those critiques into stepping stones and make our voices heard in this crowded podcasting arena!Links referenced in this episode:podmastery.corockflight.copodmastery.co/contactpodmastery.co/voicemailAlso mentioned in this episode: Sugar Hill Gang Jubilaires Diary of a CEO Stephen Bartlett Primark Rock Fight Podmastery.co Apple Podcasts

Every podcaster dreads it: that brutal one-star review, the public comment that rips your hard work to shreds. But what if your harshest critic is actually your greatest growth tool?In this episode of Podcasting Insights with The Podmaster, I'm sharing the real story of how a vocal hater went from blasting my radio morning show to becoming one of my biggest advocates, even booking me for private gigs. You’ll learn how I made that happen, and how you can use the same methods for your podcast and any critics you get along the way. Also, I'll share the four ways critics can sharpen your podcast, and the simple rules that stop you from losing your mind when trolls strike.If you’ve ever felt crushed by negative feedback, this episode will change how you see it forever. Don’t fear your haters. Love them, learn from them, and watch how fast your podcast grows.Mentioned in this episode:Book your Podmaster auditWanna get unstuck from the sub 100 downloads per month doldrums. Fancy getting closer to top 2% podcaster glory? Sounds like you need one of my Podmaster audits. Go to podmastery.co/lite and within 5 business days you’ll get a full video and written report on my findings. That's podmastery.co/lite Podmaster audit

Curious?

Let me tell you where most podcasters get it wrong right from the jump. It’s that tired cliché “If you build it, they will come.” This episode is my reality check for you, and if you're honest with yourself, it could save you more disappointment and wasted effort than you realise. I walk through why just recording a bunch of episodes and putting them online is never going to magically build an audience, no matter how unique your idea feels. What you’re going to hear is the real work that has to go into positioning, marketing, production, and – above all – earning the right for your audience to come back again and again. It’s not glamorous, but it works, and I’m breaking down exactly why.The episode gets into the numbers, the psychology, and the relentless myth that your social media follower count will somehow guarantee instant podcast listeners. It doesn’t. You’ll learn why podcasts and radio might share a delivery method (audio) but are incomparable when it comes to how people find and commit to content. I’m calling out the ‘gurus’ peddling fairytales and laying out instead the importance of actionable strategy.With thanks to Irina Tudorache - https://www.linkedin.com/in/irina-tudorache/ and Michelle J Raymond for their valuable contributions towards this episode.If you'd like to leave me a message, the voicemail is https://podmastery.co/voicemailMentioned in this episode:A Podknows ProductionPodknows helps brands and creators to build their podcasts into virtual sales and marketing teams which get them results even when they're sleeping. Find out more at https://podknows.co.uk/

Every new podcaster does it. You launch your show, then spend the whole week refreshing your hosting dashboard analytics like it’s going to magically change. And when those first week podcast download numbers trickle in, they feel… embarrassingly small.Here’s the truth: those numbers don’t matter. Like, at all.In this episode, I’ll explain why your launch week stats are useless, the psychology behind why we obsess over them (hello, spotlight effect), and the success metrics that actually fuel real podcast growth. From listener retention to 30-day rolling averages, I’ll show you what’s worth tracking — and what’s just noise.If you’ve ever felt crushed by your first week’s downloads, this one’s going to reset how you think about podcast success.Mentioned in this episode:Free PLOT workbookA Podknows ProductionPodknows helps brands and creators to build their podcasts into virtual sales and marketing teams which get them results even when they're sleeping. Find out more at https://podknows.co.uk/

Why Your LinkedIn Followers Don’t Listen To Your PodcastA painful truth for business podcasters who still think follower counts equal listeners...Let’s get uncomfortable for a moment.LinkedIn tells you that bigger is better. Hit that 10,000, 50,000, or even 100,000 follower milestone, and suddenly you’re tempted to believe you’re sitting on a goldmine of eager podcast listeners.That couldn’t be further from the truth.I’ve consulted with more than enough LinkedIn 'influencers' to know this: if you’re counting on that social proof to deliver actual podcast results, you’re going to be disappointed. In fact, if you’re expecting more than a handful of listeners per episode simply because you have a five-figure following, you’re already losing the game.Here’s the reality.LinkedIn is a platform designed to serve its own interests, not yours. The algorithm is geared towards creating a false sense of reach and relevance. You post about your new episode, rack up a few dozen likes, maybe a polite comment from that one guy who always chimes in, and screenshot the analytics because they look impressive.But when it comes to actual podcast listeners—real people pressing play, not bots or random scrollers—the numbers barely register.And don’t just take my word for it. I’ve literally done the math for clients. The entire illusion falls apart once you work through the numbers on how posts convert followers into listeners. You’d be amazed (or horrified) at how small that number is.Imagine this: 100,000 LinkedIn followers. That’s enough to fill a stadium, right?So, if you’re chasing followers and bragging about your vanity metrics, you’re fooling yourself.Want to break this cycle?Listen to this episode to get the background on the problem.Then, get the Swipe Files so you can fix it. Ready to do the math? Get your free files at podmastery.co/math, or reach out for a straightforward audit of your podcast’s real growth potential.Because your real audience deserves better than a vanity strategy.Timestamps00:00 "LinkedIn Followers Don't Equal Success"03:57 Deceptive Podcast Popularity Tactics08:59 Boost LinkedIn Engagement Tactics10:46 "Podcast Growth and Mastery Tips"Mentioned in this episode:A Podknows ProductionPodknows helps brands and creators to build their podcasts into virtual sales and marketing teams which get them results even when they're sleeping. Find out more at https://podknows.co.uk/

Every August, you'll hear the same noise about everyone disappearing.Holidays, beaches, the world moving a little slower. I used to kinda buy into this myth myself, until I watched a client hit pause, just to realise that their audience hadn't gone anywhere. They'd simply found something else to jam into their earbuds. This latest episode of Podcasting Insights is all about flipping the so-called 'summer slump' on its head. I’m walking you through three moves you can make right now, literally before the weekend’s over, to keep your download numbers in healthy shape and your listeners coming back for more. No grand production, no drama, just practical steps you can act on right away. Mentioned in this episode:Book your Podmaster auditWanna get unstuck from the sub 100 downloads per month doldrums. Fancy getting closer to top 2% podcaster glory? Sounds like you need one of my Podmaster audits. Go to podmastery.co/lite and within 5 business days you’ll get a full video and written report on my findings. That's podmastery.co/lite Podmaster auditA Podknows ProductionPodknows helps brands and creators to build their podcasts into virtual sales and marketing teams which get them results even when they're sleeping. Find out more at https://podknows.co.uk/

How long should your podcast episodes actually be? Today, we’re tossing the rulebook out the window and figuring out episode length. Forget those guru-mandated magic numbers; it’s all about what suits your story and your listeners' needs. Whether you’re aiming for a quick, snappy 15-minute burst or a deep-dive extravaganza of over an hour, we’ll guide you through the pros and cons of each format.

It’s a well-worn scene now, isn’t it: you spend your evenings slicing up episodes, creating what you’re told are “virality-ready” podcast clips, then blowing them out across Instagram and TikTok, all on the promise - usually delivered to you by a LinkedIn “guru” - that social video is the missing link between your pod and the big leagues. You get a few views, maybe even a flattering comment from someone you’ll never meet. But, let’s be honest. The podcast stats don’t move. Maybe there’s the odd outlier, but mostly, you’re banging your head against the same wall every upload cycle. I see it every week with new clients, and it’s always the same confusion: “I’ve got the clips, Neal. I followed the formula. Why is my actual audience not growing?” There’s a reason for it. And in this episode, I break open exactly why your current approach isn’t moving the needle and what you need to flip around to get real, sustainable listener growth.Mentioned in this episode:A Podknows ProductionPodknows helps brands and creators to build their podcasts into virtual sales and marketing teams which get them results even when they're sleeping. Find out more at https://podknows.co.uk/Book your Podmaster auditWanna get unstuck from the sub 100 downloads per month doldrums. Fancy getting closer to top 2% podcaster glory? Sounds like you need one of my Podmaster audits. Go to podmastery.co/lite and within 5 business days you’ll get a full video and written report on my findings. That's podmastery.co/lite Podmaster audit

Welcome to Podcasting Insights with The Podmaster. I’m Neal Veglio, and I’m here to help independent podcasters and small business owners get real results from their shows. In this episode, I’m sharing my top five strategies for being a better guest on other people’s podcasts. If you’ve been invited onto shows and want to make a bigger impact, or you’re feeling nervous about coming across well as a guest, I’ve got you covered. My goal is to help you not just appear as a guest, but become someone hosts want to invite back. If you’re ready to up your podcast guest game and create more opportunities for your brand, this episode is for you.Mentioned in this episode:A Podknows ProductionPodknows helps brands and creators to build their podcasts into virtual sales and marketing teams which get them results even when they're sleeping. Find out more at https://podknows.co.uk/

Free download with this episode - podmastery.co/PLOT==================================There's something I see too much in podcasting and it still baffles me: the endless, rambling intros that sound like the warm-up act for a local weather segment rather than a well-crafted episode. Yet, podcasters fall into the trap every week, convinced their audience wants a 20-minute recap of what their dog ate for breakfast. So in this episode of Podcasting Insights I share my PLOT framework—the four-step, no-nonsense approach I've been using and refining for years, both with my own content and with clients who actually care about real retention (not just download numbers to brag about on LinkedIn). If you want honest specifics about how to hook, teach, and genuinely deliver value, without dropping your play-through stats, the PLOT method is the tool you should be using.Here’s how it breaks down, if you want to jump to what matters most:[00:00:00] – Why endless preamble kills retention, and what the first 60 seconds must accomplish[00:01:23] – Building a preview that sells the value of the episode (without overloading details or wasting attention)[00:02:56] – Understanding and using retention data: where to find the stats in Apple and Spotify dashboards, and what to do when your episodes drop below 60% retention[00:04:04] – ‘Launch’: Creating a structure with clear signposting, hooks, and removing dead wood; using sound design to keep listeners tuned in[00:05:57] – The ‘Offer’: Moving beyond pure value dumps, and making a meaningful offer that lets listeners take the next step without feeling like they’re being hard-sold[00:07:31] – ‘Takeaways’: The method for making sure what you teach actually sticks, using the 3:2:1 wrap-up and the power of a micro challenge[00:08:30] – When to tease the next episode and how not to overdo it[00:09:22] – Recap of the PLOT steps, and your reminder to ditch the 60-minute weather intros for goodIf you're serious about building a podcast that doesn't just get plays, but actually keeps listeners coming back, and moves them to action, stick this episode on your list. And if the insight makes you rethink your next intro, or finally gets you on track with what a good episode structure should look like, you’ll know it’s working. Hit subscribe and let me know what works.Mentioned in this episode:Free PLOT workbookA Podknows ProductionPodknows helps brands and creators to build their podcasts into virtual sales and marketing teams which get them results even when they're sleeping. Find out more at https://podknows.co.uk/

Let’s chat about Klaxon AI and what it brings to the table.... specifically, the promise of whipping up professional audio ads for podcasts and radio quicker than you can brew a cup of coffee. A polished 30-second ad is ready to roll. For 99 quid. Plus VAT. But is it any good? We'll learn together shall we?Go ahead and press play.Relevant links:https://www.klaxon.ai/https://www.asa.org.uk/codes-and-rulings/advertising-codes.htmlhttps://advertise.acast.com/news-and-insights/five-proven-ways-to-positively-impact-your-brands-kpis-when-advertising-in-podcastsMentioned in this episode:A Podknows ProductionPodknows helps brands and creators to build their podcasts into virtual sales and marketing teams which get them results even when they're sleeping. Find out more at https://podknows.co.uk/

I’ve lost count of the number of podcasters who approach me – sometimes in a panic, occasionally in despair – to say that their listener numbers are flatlining. Every week when they check their analytics (and let’s be honest, we all do that even when we say we don’t care about the stats, right?), the needle hasn’t really budged. That’s when they ask for a magic bullet. In almost all cases, it comes down to one thing they haven’t given anywhere near enough attention: their podcast intro. Now, before you tap out thinking, “Oh, my intro’s fine, mate. I even paid someone on Fiverr to do it for a tenner,” let me assure you – it probably isn’t 'fine'. In this episode, I’m taking you behind the scenes on why that all-important first impression matters so much more than most podcasters think.The mentioned study... https://time.com/3858309/attention-spans-goldfish/Timestamped Summary[00:00:01] – Why you need to give more thought to your intro.[00:00:28] – Why long or waffly intros kill shows.[00:01:13] – Real-life case study: Catherine Eardley’s weak intro.[00:03:13] – Catherine’s new, much sharper intro.[00:03:37] – Research: Microsoft’s attention span report.[00:06:44] – The practical method for fixing intros: a plain English breakdown of my “PLOT” system, and why “Preview” and “Launch” are most essential.[00:07:20] – Before and after demo of a “standard” dull intro versus a reworked, punchy, listener-centred one.Free Intros Blueprint https://podmastery.co/introsLinks referenced in this episode:podmastery.co/liteMentioned in this episode:Free Intros BlueprintDownload your free blueprint hereFree Intros Blueprint

You know that feeling you get when you’ve poured your heart into your podcast for months, only to see the kind of download numbers you could count on one hand? If that’s you, I want you to know you’re definitely not alone. The sheer number of podcasters who reach out to me, stuck in this exact scenario, is far higher than you’d probably guess. But here’s the kicker: it rarely comes down to a lack of effort or even a lack of content. More often, the problem is rooted in five persistent myths that quietly steer podcasters straight into a rut. Myths I see crop up almost every time I run an audit for someone serious about improving their reach. If you’re at the point where you’re open to a bit of tough love, this episode will give you a chance to step off the hamster wheel, take a proper look at what's holding your show back, and finally start seeing the kind of traction you actually deserve.Book your podcast audit nowhttps://podmastery.co/liteTimestamped summary00:00 Guest Dependency Issues in Podcasts04:00 Downloads Don't Equal Engagement09:41 Podcast Monetization Myths DebunkedMentioned in this episode:Book your Podmaster auditWanna get unstuck from the sub 100 downloads per month doldrums. Fancy getting closer to top 2% podcaster glory? Sounds like you need one of my Podmaster audits. Go to podmastery.co/lite and within 5 business days you’ll get a full video and written report on my findings. That's podmastery.co/lite Podmaster auditA Podknows ProductionPodknows helps brands and creators to build their podcasts into virtual sales and marketing teams which get them results even when they're sleeping. Find out more at https://podknows.co.uk/

If you’ve spent time scratching your head over how to actually make money from your podcast – not in a pipe dream, “I’ll just wait until the sponsors come running” sort of way, but in a real, put-cash-in-your-bank-account way – this episode is going to either save you from a world of wasted effort…or register as the podcasting equivalent of hearing Santa isn’t real. ==============================================================Have you signed up for my "Top Listener Pet Peeves" report yet?https://podmastery.co/petpeeves==============================================================I get it: the advice out there is either laughably vague or refers to audience sizes that would make most national radio stations blush. You’re told to focus on sponsors. You’re sold the idea that passive ad income is lurking just around the corner, when in reality, most podcasters would be financially better off mowing lawns. On “5 ways to make money with your podcast,” I’m breaking from that nonsense and lifting up the hood on what actually works if you’re not one of the lucky few sitting on tens of thousands of downloads. And, yes, I’ll lay out the business models that don’t work for the majority – and point you to approaches that actually deliver if you’re willing to think a little more creatively and act with intention.Chapters:00:00 Monetising for Indies04:17 Targeted Digital Products06:27 Podcast SponsorshipMentioned in this episode:Book your Podmaster auditWanna get unstuck from the sub 100 downloads per month doldrums. Fancy getting closer to top 2% podcaster glory? Sounds like you need one of my Podmaster audits. Go to podmastery.co/lite and within 5 business days you’ll get a full video and written report on my findings. That's podmastery.co/lite Podmaster auditA Podknows ProductionPodknows helps brands and creators to build their podcasts into virtual sales and marketing teams which get them results even when they're sleeping. Find out more at https://podknows.co.uk/

In a world where anyone with a microphone can claim to be a podcast expert, it’s crucial to arm yourself with the knowledge on how to differentiate the true pros from the shady fakers.We’re putting our detective hats on and analysing the tell-tale signs of those who are merely cashing in on your naivete.From the overly polished personal branding clips that scream desperation to the suspiciously high follower counts that suggest a bot brigade, we dissect the modern-day snake oil salesman lurking in the podcasting community.

Podcasters, gather 'round! We've got some juicy nuggets from Apple's latest WWDC that are sure to make your ears perk up and your podcasting dreams a little brighter. Companies mentioned in this episode: Apple Apple Podcasts Overcast Pocketcast AirPods Mentioned in this episode:A Podknows ProductionPodknows helps brands and creators to build their podcasts into virtual sales and marketing teams which get them results even when they're sleeping. Find out more at https://podknows.co.uk/

There’s a lesson quietly looming for every podcaster right now, and it comes from a place no one really expected: Marc Maron's WTF podcast is ending. Yes, the granddaddy of indie podcasting—the guy who not only defined the space for a generation, but who made even the President stop by his garage—has finally called it quits, citing burnout. That’s not just 'big news' for the podcasting industry, it’s a full warning bell for anyone invested in building their own show. You want to know what this means for you, and—crucially—how to avoid letting your own podcast become the next long-form collapse? In this episode, I get right into what the end of WTF really signals for indie creators, where Maron went wrong, and most importantly, how you can avoid burning out or falling off the map yourself.Timestamped Summary00:00 Marc Maron's Podcasting Lessons03:53 Podcasting Burnout Highlighted by Security Incident06:21 Outsource Podcast Editing for Efficiency09:51 Podcast Exit Strategy Challenges15:15 Batching Themed Episodes: Market Opportunity18:13 Maximizing Podcast Content Value20:28 Turn Critics into AlliesMentioned in this episode:A Podknows ProductionPodknows helps brands and creators to build their podcasts into virtual sales and marketing teams which get them results even when they're sleeping. Find out more at https://podknows.co.uk/Book your Podmaster auditWanna get unstuck from the sub 100 downloads per month doldrums. Fancy getting closer to top 2% podcaster glory? Sounds like you need one of my Podmaster audits. Go to podmastery.co/lite and within 5 business days you’ll get a full video and written report on my findings. That's podmastery.co/lite Podmaster audit

You’re an audio-first podcaster, and I get it—maybe the thought of adding video sends shivers down your spine, or just makes you roll your eyes at the idea of becoming yet another wannabe YouTuber. But what if dipping your toe into the video waters didn’t mean selling your soul to the YouTube algorithm, or breaking the bank on kit that just sits in the box? There’s a brand-new webcam—the $69 Lenovo C55—that’s just burst onto the scene, and in this episode, I give you exactly what you need to know if you’re toying with the idea of showing your mug on screen without looking like a relic from the dial-up era. Companies mentioned in this episode: Lenovo

There’s a nasty little mistake that’s probably killing your podcast—and most podcasters have no idea they’re making it. I’m not talking about your audio quality, your marketing, or even whether you’re publishing regularly. It’s something much more fundamental but shockingly overlooked. Psst! This episode comes with a free downloadable resource. Get it here - https://podmastery.co/titleIn this episode of Podcasting Insights with The Podmaster, I walked through a real-world fix for the most common reason your audience “just isn’t finding you,” no matter how good your content is. If you think your show deserves a bigger audience or you’ve been frustrated by that steady trickle of downloads that never quite becomes a surge, you’ll want to listen in. Trust me, I’ve just come back from talking to every kind of podcaster at The Podcast Show in London, and almost all of them had this issue—whether they realised it or not.I tell the stories of Grace and Luke—two podcasters who, like a lot of people, had clever, catchy titles they were really proud of. But the reality is, their otherwise smart titles were doing absolutely nothing to help them get found. My friend and colleague Colin Gray also recently posted about episode titles on LinkedIn and I think you should check it out. Here it is - https://www.linkedin.com/posts/colinmcgray_podcast-podcasting-contentmarketing-activity-7336372482544689153-lzvS?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAACx8U4ABavMWewKoCnY83LZFc5pdJxl8sdgTimestamped Episode Summary:00:00 "Improve Podcast Visibility with Titles"03:06 Podcast Discoverability Issues06:39 Revamping Podcast Titles for Clarity10:17 "Podcasting Insights Appreciation"Mentioned in this episode:Get your free podcast title checklistCheck your podcast's title against my free checklistTitle checklistA Podknows ProductionPodknows helps brands and creators to build their podcasts into virtual sales and marketing teams which get them results even when they're sleeping. Find out more at https://podknows.co.uk/

If you’re wrenching your hair out over your stagnating podcast audience, parked stubbornly south of the 100-listeners per episode mark.... Give me your ears! Not literally, keep those; you’ll need them for what you're about to hear.The pain of the plateauI get it; the deflation hits hard when your buffer audience wouldn’t fill a dinghy, let alone that elusive cruise liner you dream of sipping Negronis on after a good hour in the hot tub. But I'm going to share two key bits of insight with you.1: How you need to reframe your current audience stats.2: What you can do to increase them if you're still seeking dopamine. By the time we’re done, you’ll have a noggin brimming with tactics tailored to your individual podcast challenges. Because, let’s face it, moulding a prosperous podcast it’s not about rolling dice, it’s about strategy. Want to get more of a handle on your podcast strategy so you can enjoy more new ideal listeners who are actually going to enjoy what you're putting out? Contact me!https://www.podmastery.co/contact/Timestamped summary:00:00 Recommend using one of two website platforms.05:23 Grow podcast with targeted ad investment.08:25 Targeted, precise traffic without any wasted efforts.

Now and then, we like to share a show we hope you'll either like yourself, or know someone who will. Here's "Different, not broken". Check it out at https://differentnotbrokenpodcast.com/listen

Are you leaning a bit too heavily on Descript? Or, God forbid, trusting a one-click AI tool to turn your podcast into the audio equivalent of a ready-made M&S dinner for a first date you actually care about? This episode is for you.Listen, I don't care what all the “podcast productivity” wizards on LinkedIn will tell you. They love to make bold claims about how AI editing tools are making everyone’s life easier. But let’s be honest: if you use these tools the way they want you to—blindly, with zero thought—you’ll end up with a podcast that sounds like it was stitched together by someone who barely knows you, your show, or your audience. (If it sounds like I’m describing your last agency-produced episode, well… you said it, not me.)Let’s get something clear: I like Descript. I use Descript. It’s not about burning it at the stake. It’s that people are treating it like some magic bullet, when actually, used wrong, it’s more like shooting yourself in the foot repeatedly on autopilot. You want action? Here it is: listen to this episode and you’ll finally get what makes a difference between editing for quality, and mashing away at “remove filler words” until you don’t even sound like yourself anymore.Mentioned in this episode:A Podknows ProductionPodknows helps brands and creators to build their podcasts into virtual sales and marketing teams which get them results even when they're sleeping. Find out more at https://podknows.co.uk/

Check out this other show from Podknows Podcasting's network.Podbitch brings you all the podcasting gossip, delivered as only the Podbitch can.But who is the Podbitch? Ahh, that's for the inner sanctum to know and for you to find out.

Authenticity in podcasting is all the rage these days, but let’s be real—most of the folks shouting about it don’t even know what they’re talking about. Let's learn what trust really means in this wild audio podcasting jungle, and spoiler alert: it’s not about slapping out unedited recordings like some sort of lazy podcasting buffet. We’ll also throw some shade at the likes of Steven Bartlett, whose antics might just be the poster child for everything that’s gone wrong with podcasting trust. Companies mentioned in this episode: Steven Bartlett Diary of a CEO Dr. Joe Dispenza Podmastery.co Spotify Advertising Standards Authority Podknows Podmaster audit Mentioned in this episode:Save hours on your editingWant to cut hours out of your production workflow? Whether you're a podcaster, YouTuber or even a professional content creator, this tool will get you back your life! (Note - although this is an affiliate, I don't recommend any tools I don't use myself. And I use this DAILY)Simplify your editingBook your Podmaster auditWanna get unstuck from the sub 100 downloads per month doldrums. Fancy getting closer to top 2% podcaster glory? Sounds like you need one of my Podmaster audits. Go to podmastery.co/lite and within 5 business days you’ll get a full video and written report on my findings. That's podmastery.co/lite Podmaster audit

So, here’s the scoop: I totally flaked out and forgot that Good Friday was a thing, leading to an unexpected missed episode publication last week. So I feel like I need to strip myself of the self-appointed "The Podmaster" title now. But even the pros can drop the ball sometimes! In this episode we're looking into the art of planning your time off like a pro, so you don’t end up scrambling for content when it's already too late, like yours truly. We’ll explore some solid strategies and figure out how to keep our podcasting game strong while still giving ourselves a well-deserved break!Audit Podmaster Discount 25% Mentioned in this episode:A Podknows ProductionPodknows helps brands and creators to build their podcasts into virtual sales and marketing teams which get them results even when they're sleeping. Find out more at https://podknows.co.uk/

AI is still crashing the podcast party. Microsoft’s Copilot is the latest major platform to strut in with its new AI podcasting tool, joining Google’s already established Notebook LM. So, are we really witnessing the death of the human podcaster? Let's explore how this shiny new tech might impact on this still evolving space.Companies mentioned in this episode: Microsoft Google Mentioned in this episode:A Podknows ProductionPodknows helps brands and creators to build their podcasts into virtual sales and marketing teams which get them results even when they're sleeping. Find out more at https://podknows.co.uk/

Picture this: a bunch of sprightly nonagenarians sitting around, chatting about life, love, and the occasional tango. That’s the heart and soul of Noventa y Contado, a podcast that has taken the world by storm, not just for its content but for its sheer audacity. Who knew that 90-year-olds could rock the podcasting scene? The brainchild of a viral TikTok moment featuring 97-year-old Alberto Chab, this gem showcases the wisdom and wit of a generation often overlooked by mainstream media. https://www.tiktok.com/@noventaycontandoWith topics ranging from health tips to spicy tales of romance, the show digs deep into the rich tapestry of life experiences that these beloved seniors bring to the table. Each episode features a rotating cast of characters, each with their unique perspectives, moderated with a gentle touch that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. But wait, there’s more! This isn’t just your run-of-the-mill storytelling podcast; it's a cultural phenomenon that’s bridging the gap between generations. Companies mentioned in this episode: Noventa y Contado TikTok YouTube Spotify Apple podcasts

Imposter syndrome is the sneaky little buggah that many of us podcasters have to grapple with, whether we’re just starting out or have logged countless hours behind the mic. It's that annoying voice whispering doubts like, “Who do you think you are?” and “Why would anyone want to listen to you?” But here’s the truth — you are absolutely qualified to podcast, and we’re going to explore how to silence that pesky voice for good. Why is this feeling so common in the podcasting world? What practical strategies are there to boost your confidence, even when you’re feeling vulnerable? It's all in this episode!Mentioned in this episode:Show Notes SimplifiedAre you sick of having to write out your episode descriptions (show notes) from scratch every time? Want to set up a templated approach that will save you hours every week? This tool is for you! (Note - this is an affiliate offer, but I don't recommend tools I'm not using myself, and I use this one DAILY)Simplify your show notesAudit 25% Discount OfferGet a 25% discount on Podmaster auditsAudit Podmaster Discount 25%A Podknows ProductionPodknows helps brands and creators to build their podcasts into virtual sales and marketing teams which get them results even when they're sleeping. Find out more at https://podknows.co.uk/

Being exposed to free podcasting tools can feel like stepping into a candy store. It sounds like a dream come true: no upfront costs, no wallet sweating, just pure, unadulterated creativity! But hold your horses, Sebastian! As we peel back the shiny wrapper of these free services, we uncover the not-so-sweet reality lurking underneath. We're talking about the sneaky little catches that can turn your podcasting dream into a bit of a nightmare. You might think you're saving a couple of quid or bucks, but in the long run, it could cost you way more than you bargained for. What’s the catch, you ask? Click play, and find out.Companies mentioned in this episode: Spotify for Creators Mentioned in this episode:A Podknows ProductionPodknows helps brands and creators to build their podcasts into virtual sales and marketing teams which get them results even when they're sleeping. Find out more at https://podknows.co.uk/The Podmaster's 7 Day Makeover courseGet your show in shape!

Picture this: You're determined to grow your podcast to get the best possible results, but find yourself smothered by the temptation of paying some guy to hoist it onto the so-called podcast charts. Your ego takes hold, and even though you know you shouldn't pay to 'cheat', the idea of finally getting noticed and regarded as a great podcaster becomes too much to bear. But wait - do you really know what you're getting yourself into? This episode of Podcasting Insights with The Podmaster is inspired by a frankly wrong piece of advice offered by another podcast - Podcast Marketing Trends, hosted by Jeremy Enns and Justin Jackson. They claimed paid podcasting promotion is a money pit. Well, I'm hoping to help you understand the different kinds of paid podcast promotion. So, is it a cunning growth hack or just a money pit disguised with sweet promises? Stick with me—Neal Veglio—for a reality check.Here's what you'll learn: The murky truth behind those promises of instant chart success and 10,000 downloads by Tuesday, and why these schemes aren't worth the faux glitz they offer. What are click farms? Why a real, authentic audience isn't just science fiction but a tangible outcome when approached with the right mix of strategy and sincerity.As promised, here are the names of our clients who have used Podknows Podcasting's marketing help in the past.Colin True (The Rock Fight, Open Container)Michelle J Raymond (Social Media for B2B Marketing)Mahmood Reza (From Creative Passion to Profit)Holly Christie (Websites Made Simple)Mentioned in this episode:A Podknows ProductionPodknows helps brands and creators to build their podcasts into virtual sales and marketing teams which get them results even when they're sleeping. Find out more at https://podknows.co.uk/Book your Podmaster auditWanna get unstuck from the sub 100 downloads per month doldrums. Fancy getting closer to top 2% podcaster glory? Sounds like you need one of my Podmaster audits. Go to podmastery.co/lite and within 5 business days you’ll get a full video and written report on my findings. That's podmastery.co/lite Podmaster audit

YouTube is working on a new feature that could change the game for podcasters everywhere. Imagine this - dynamic mid-roll ads that we can control! I mean, come on, who wouldn’t want the power to swap out ads in our podcast episodes with the ease of changing our socks? YouTube’s working on an ad tech solution that lets us do just that, making it possible to update ads without the hassle of re-uploading our content. Find out why this is such a big deal for podcasters as Amelia Knight talks us through the latest developments from the video hosting platform.Mentioned in this episode:A Podknows ProductionPodknows helps brands and creators to build their podcasts into virtual sales and marketing teams which get them results even when they're sleeping. Find out more at https://podknows.co.uk/