The Hardest Part of Being a “Podcast Coach”
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So You Want to Be a Podcast Coach?
Over the years I will give tasks for new podcasters to complete. One item was very simple. Go find a show similar to yours. Later, we’ll reach out and see if they are interested in partnering/cross promotion. For now, just find one.
Behind the scenes: I just went to Google, and because it’s raining here I typed, “Weather Podcast,” and one source lists 19 different podcasts about the weather. This took maybe 15 seconds.
Remember, we weren’t reaching out. We just wanted to identify. I once did this with a group. The number of students who “did their homework” was (to be honest) disappointing.
Only a handful actually looked. Most didn’t. And that’s the thing about homework — it’s not hard, it’s just optional, and optional things get skipped. Everyone wants the growth. Almost nobody wants to spend the 15 seconds finding out who else is already doing it.
We All Want a Bigger Podcast Audience
As I get older, I know I should be lifting weights. It helps build muscles, which burn calories and helps me lose weight. I can read about lifting weights. I can watch video after video about lifting weights. I can listen to audiobooks about lifting weights. I can study reps and sets. I can shop for kettlebells or dumbbells, or total gyms, shake weights…
None of this actually builds muscles.
I Went to Lunch With a Personal Trainer
It turns out Podpage customer Brian Parana of the Driven To Health show is super fit, and if you’re trying to lose the “dad bod,” he’s a good place to start. While I was with Brian, I skipped the bread and stopped after two pieces.
I gave him some insights into podcasting, and he gave me insights into fitness.
Knowledge is only power when you act on it.
So You Need To Do Something
Me: Have you surveyed your audience?
Podcaster: Yes, but I got zero responses.
Me: Did you try again?
Podcaster: No.
Me: How many times did you tell the audience about the survey?
Podcaster: I don’t remember.
Me: Would you like me to listen to an episode? Which one should I listen to? Podcaster: No, I’m good on content. I just need it to grow (this is said very, very often).
Me: Did you at least promote it on social?
Podcaster: Which one?
Me: Which one are you on the most?
Podcaster: Instagram.
Me: Then Instagram.
Podcaster: Oh, no, I didn’t.
Me: Did you start a newsletter? Kit, MailerLite, Beehiiv, Substack, Ghost — they all have free versions.
Podcaster: I’m not sure what to say.
Me: Whatever is on your mind that they might find useful or entertaining. It could be a single paragraph. Seth Godin (a famous blogger) recently published a blog post with 178 words.
Podcaster: Oh, OK. I’ll think about it. I know I should.
There is No 10,000 Download Switch
It appears that most (not all) podcasters want to take one step, and that is to flip a switch and instantly have an audience of 10,000.
I’m sorry to say, it just doesn’t work that way.
Podcasting is simple. It’s not easy.
But Wait There’s More (wait for it…)
After ignoring all of your good advice, they will drop you for a new coach because “you weren’t really helping.”
I Do Love My Clients
If this sounds like I’m bitching about some (not all) of my clients, it’s because I am. Now, please note, I love them all in the same way you love your children. But don’t you love the child who cleans their room and puts their dishes in the dishwasher without being told just a little more?
They are doing the work.
So You Want to Be a Podcast Coach
Bring an insane appetite to help people, and an endless supply of patience. It would also help if you knew something about podcasting (did I say that out loud?).
With enough encouragement, hand holding, and pointing people in the right direction, they often trust you enough to take steps. For me, I keep my eye on the benefit I KNOW they will feel once they keep moving. I help the them see the unseen, and catch them when they jump. Eventually, they will stop researching, and start doing.
Podcast not growing as fast as you want? I’ve repackaged the “Podcast Hot Seat" (including a price change) and made it more ala cart. We all miss our own mistakes because we are too close to the content. Pull your car into the podcast garage, and let me take a peak at it. See www.fixmypodcast.com
I’ve had two people sign up and they loved the service. Are you next?
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What’s Coming In The Future
My next School of Podcasting episode will be about what I took away from Empowered Podcasting Conference. One tip is going to save me $100/month.
Need Help With Your Podcast?
Whether you’re just starting or a seasoned podcaster, the School of Podcasting can help. Helping podcasters is what I do, and I’ve been doing it since 2005
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