Have you ever wondered if the reason your podcast hasn’t “exploded” is actually the very thing that could help it last—and make it more rewarding? This week, I look into why having a smaller, passionate, and loyal audience often leads to more meaningful wins (personally and professionally) than simply racking up big download numbers.
If you want to learn how to create enduring engagement, avoid common pitfalls, and connect with listeners in a way that actually matters, this episode is for you.
Here’s what I cover in this week’s “Podcast Stew” styled episode (which includes chapters).
1000 True Fans
- Why a “thousand true fans” might just be your biggest business advantage (and how focusing on your core audience beats chasing the casual crowd).
- Lessons from YouTube experts (Rocks Codes, Stephen Bartlett, Mr. Beast, Marques Brownlee) on where to put your energy if you want to succeed, and the role thumbnails, titles, and discovery play in growth
- My thoughts on competing with “the big guys” - what you should (and shouldn’t) compare against, and why joy matters
- Independent vs. networked podcasting: Candid stories from the Young and Profiting team, the Midas Touch podcast, and why control is crucial
- The truth about monetization—when is the right time (and why “3% conversion” is the real number to expect)
- Behind the curtain of podcast business stats: Lessons from Goal Hanger, ad revenue, and memberships
- Platform realities: Spotify’s “walled garden,” why I recommend “anybody but Spotify” for hosting, and insights from James Cridland at Podnews
- The importance of fun and fulfillment: advice from LeBron James and Charlie Puth on why loving the work is the true engine for longevity
- How to effectively use calls-to-action: Taking lessons from an Audible ad in “Project Hail Mary” and why going “deeper” with your fans matters
Links mentioned this week:
School of Podcasting
Podpage
Podnews Report Card
How to Pitch a Podcast Show (Coming Soon!).
Creators Hub in Spotify
Apple Podcasts Hub
Whether you’re launching, growing, or just rethinking your show’s direction, this episode is packed with honest stories and actionable advice, plus a dash of inspiration to help you stay true to your voice and audience. As always, if you want to go deeper, join the free School of Podcasting
Thanks for listening! Don’t forget to share with a friend who needs a reminder that influence starts with true connection.
Mentioned in This Show
Oxford Road The Media Roundtable Episode
Sound Off Podcast (Matt Cundill interviews Doug Downs)
Why MKBHD Told Netflix: "Don't Bother on Jon Youshaei channel
What Podcasting Can Learn From YouTube Growth with Rox Codes (Podbiz with Norma Jean Belenky)
Lisa Kudrow on Vanity Fair Channel
Sounds Profitable The Download
James Cridland on Spotify's Features "Coming Soon."
Jordan Harbinger Talks YouTube on New Media Show with Rob Greenlee
Charlie Puth on Rick Beato Channel
Project Hail Mary Trailer
Big Lash Energy Interview
Audible (aff link)
Mentioned in this episode:
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Podpage
Question of the Month: The Smallest Amount of Downloads
We all want a bigger audience. We all put a lot of work into our shows. With this in mind, what is the smallest amount of downloads you would do the show for? If it drops below a number would you stop, or put effort into finding out why?
Does the size of your audience matter?
Go to schoolofpodcasting.com/question by August 28th (and don't forget to say a little bit about your show and your website address so I can link to it in the notes)
School of Podcasting
Where Will I Be?
I love meeting you when I'm out at events. Here are some of my next events:
Podcast Movement September 17-18
Podindy November 7th (use the coupon pacer at podindy.com)
Where Will I Be?
Podcasting Six Weeks
Ready to start your podcast? Podcasting in Six Weeks gives aspiring podcasters a proven, step-by-step system to launch with confidence. Stop overthinking and start publishing. Enroll today and your podcast could be live in just six weeks. Classes start August 19th
Podcasting in Six Weeks
