184 | Indie Podcaster's Playbook: Tips for Growth and Monetization with Steven Gould

184 | Indie Podcaster's Playbook: Tips for Growth and Monetization with Steven Gould

Author: Chris Smith January 6, 2025 Duration: 1:01:03

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In this episode of Podtastic Audio, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Steven Gould, the creator of the hit podcast Things Police See, to dive into the secrets behind his incredible podcasting success. Steven shared his journey of growing a niche podcast from zero to tens of thousands of downloads per month, all while staying true to his indie roots. Here's what you'll take away from our conversation:

  • Why focusing on a niche can help you connect with a dedicated audience.
  • How Steven turned his passion for podcasting into an income stream with Patreon and sponsors.
  • What he's learned about navigating the challenges of download fluctuations (yes, we talk about the infamous Apple update!).
  • The importance of mixing personal stories with guest interviews to keep your show authentic and engaging.
  • Tips for staying consistent, motivated, and excited about your podcast, even when it feels like a grind.

If you've ever wondered how to grow your podcast, monetize it, and still keep your content authentic, you're going to love this episode. Steven's story is packed with inspiration and practical advice for any indie podcaster out there.

Chapter Timestamps:

00:00 Intro and Welcome

02:21 Steven's Podcasting Journey

05:49 Growing a Niche Audience

10:59 Challenges and Sensitive Topics

17:45 From Zero to 40K Downloads

26:04 Why Solo Episodes Matter

38:01 Monetizing the Podcast

47:47 Programmatic Ads Explained

55:47 Podcasting as a Business

58:44 Final Thoughts and Where to Connect

Podgagement® (formerly "My Podcast Reviews") is all about simplifying your podcasting and helping you engage your audience and grow your podcast!

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Chris Smith hosts Podtastic Audio: Crafting Compelling Content with Crystal Clear Audio for Indie Podcasters, a resource built specifically for independent creators who care deeply about their craft. The focus here is on the intersection of great storytelling and technical clarity, proving you don't need a studio budget to sound professional. Each episode feels like a practical workshop, breaking down the often-overwhelming process of audio production into manageable steps. You'll hear straightforward advice on selecting affordable microphones, optimizing a recording space, and editing techniques that make a real difference. The discussions go beyond gear, though, tackling how to structure episodes for impact and keep an audience engaged. This podcast operates on the principle that clear, compelling audio is the foundation of any successful show, and it's dedicated to helping you achieve that on your own terms. Whether you're troubleshooting a specific echo issue or looking for creative ways to script your introductions, the guidance is always grounded in real-world experience. It’s a blend of education and encouragement for anyone who wants their voice to be heard exactly as they intend it.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Podtastic Audio: Crafting Compelling Content with Crystal Clear Audio for Indie Podcasters
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