Overview In this episode, I review a comprehensive checklist for launching a podcast, emphasizing the importance of planning, defining a mission statement, choosing a niche, and selecting the right equipment. I share tips on the recording and editing process, branding strategies, and effective marketing techniques to promote the podcast. I conclude with advice on engaging with the audience and monitoring the podcast's success. Takeaways A checklist is essential for a smoother podcasting process....
Jun 26, 2025•22 min•Ep. 117
Last week, I talked about the importance of having a dedicated website for your podcast. In this episode, I explore the best platform for your podcasting needs, featuring an insightful conversation with Dave Jackson, Head of Podcasting at Podpage. I share my experiences using Podpage over the years and discuss how it can streamline your podcast workflow and enhance your connection with listeners. Dave provides valuable insights into the platform's features, including built-in voicemail, SEO opti...
Jun 19, 2025•14 min•Ep. 116
This week's episode discusses the necessity of having a dedicated website for your podcast. Inspired by a recent PodMatch survey, I highlight the alarming rate of broken links and the importance of a central hub for podcasts. I also cover the benefits of owning a podcast website, including email collection, SEO optimization, and brand uniformity. Additionally, I give a brief review of different platforms for creating podcast websites, weighing their pros and cons, and providing actionable steps ...
Jun 12, 2025•17 min•Ep. 115
In this episode I discuss seven big mistakes beginner podcasters make, drawing from my own experiences. No matter where you are in your podcasting journey I'm sure at least one of these points will resonate with you. Podfade is real! But if you remain vigilant, you will build a podcast that your listeners love. Key Takeaways Don't jump into podcasting without a plan. Define your ideal podcast avatar. Focus on your audience, not just downloads. Avoid comparing yourself to successful podcasters. T...
Jun 03, 2025•14 min•Ep. 114
In this episode, share my seven secrets to podcasting success. Starting with defining your niche so you can focus on your podcast content and audience. In addition, I include practical advice and insights for indie podcasters to avoid common pitfalls and thrive in the podcasting space. Key Takeaways Define your niche to guide content creation. Mindset is crucial for podcasting success. Every podcast should have a clear mission statement. Consistency in publishing is key to growth. Editing should...
May 30, 2025•18 min•Ep. 113
Summary In this episode, I discuss the challenges and rewards of starting a podcast. How podcasting not only impacted my life positively but also the lives of others. I talked about sharing personal stories and experiences that helps me as a podcast host to heal. Reflections of my own journey and growth I've experienced through podcasting, exposes the immense benefit of answering the call to share your message via a podcast. Podcasting helps the host. But more importantly, it helps listeners. I ...
May 22, 2025•13 min•Ep. 112
Summary In this episode, I discusse the importance of defining your ideal podcast avatar, or podcast listener, to create engaging content that resonates with a specific audience. I emphasize the need to niche down in a competitive podcasting landscape and I provide strategies for understanding the needs and desires of your ideal listener. By focusing on one person, podcasters can generate relevant content, attract the right guests, and ultimately grow their audience. Takeaways If your podcast is...
May 16, 2025•15 min
In this conversation, Alex Thoric shares insights on the importance of vision and persistence in entrepreneurship, drawing parallels between his experiences as an athlete and a marketer. He discusses the challenges of staying focused in a noisy digital landscape, the evolving role of marketing funnels, and the transition from providing services to focusing on education. Alex emphasizes the significance of setting clear goals and investing in oneself, while also offering practical advice for aspi...
May 08, 2025•24 min•Ep. 109
Dr. Rhonda Parker-Taylor joins Tools of the Podcast Trade to discuss how authentic storytelling, clear personal values, and emotional intelligence skills fuel both life success and podcast growth. She shares her journey from small-town Indiana to author, EQ trainer, and 100-time podcast guest, explaining why purposeful gratitude and daily intention help anyone, especially podcasters, turn rough seas into smoother sailing. Key Takeaways Story First, Metrics Second – Listeners return when every ep...
May 01, 2025•23 min•Ep. 108
In this episode, Robert Downey, Co-founder of Simply Be Found , explains how voice search and AI-driven indexing revolutionize how small businesses and podcasters get discovered online. He offers powerful insights on schema, content creation, and the future of SEO, urging creators to adapt quickly or risk being left behind. Robert also shares practical tips for leveraging schema, blogging, and raw video content to increase organic visibility without relying on paid ads. Key Takeaways 01:58 AI Se...
Apr 25, 2025•23 min•Ep. 107
Business Coach, Scott Beebe, shares his expertise and insights to challenge us to write our vision down. He breaks down why chaos creeps in when purpose is absent and how you can build a powerful, profitable show by getting radically clear on your mission, process, and people. If your podcast feels like a hobby, but you want it to be more, this episode is for you. Key Takeaways Purpose is foundational — chaos in business and podcasting often stems from a lack of clearly articulated vision, missi...
Apr 17, 2025•17 min•Ep. 106
What if the secret to growing your podcast wasn’t better tools or big guests but storytelling your audience can’t stop thinking about? In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly how to craft compelling podcast stories that not only engage but create loyal listeners who keep coming back for more. 02:08 Start With a Hook Instead of saying, “Today we talk about health,” try something intriguing like, “Ever wondered how one small habit could transform your life?” Hooks create curiosity and increase ...
Apr 10, 2025•7 min•Ep. 105
Carol Kabaale shares her journey from a corporate job in hospitality to becoming the founder of her own marketing agency focused on ad strategy and email list growth. Driven by burnout and a desire for more freedom and presence in her personal life, Carol made a bold leap, quitting her job and pursuing certification in marketing. She now specializes in helping female coaches and podcasters build sustainable businesses beyond social media by creating intentional email marketing systems. Carol emp...
Mar 27, 2025•18 min•Ep. 104
In this episode, I share essential tips for unlocking podcast success. I emphasize the importance of defining success, niching down to target a specific audience, crafting engaging content through storytelling, ensuring good audio quality, maintaining consistency in publishing, and promoting the podcast effectively while avoiding burnout. I conclude with a bonus tip about the value of creating an email list for direct communication with your audience. Takeaways Success in podcasting can be defin...
Mar 21, 2025•21 min•Ep. 103
Listen for a fun chat with Eric Melchor, the mastermind behind PodKit! In this episode, Eric shares his journey from a mediocre tennis player in Texas to a podcasting pro living in Romania. He’s not just about dad jokes; he’s also the founder of B2B Pod Pros, helping over 50 podcasters land their first sponsorship. Curious about how to create a stunning media kit without the hassle? Eric spills the beans on PodKit, a dynamic online tool that makes crafting your media kit a breeze—no more tedious...
Mar 13, 2025•21 min•Ep. 102
In this episode, I share some insights from my interview with fantasy author Joe Hilliard, focusing on the creative process of storytelling and the journey of aspiring podcasters. If you don't want to miss the full interview follow this podcast on your favorite platform. The conversation emphasizes the importance of commitment, constructive criticism, and taking action toward your dreams, whether in writing or podcasting. I encourage you to engage with their audience. 00:00 Introduction to the J...
Mar 06, 2025•8 min•Ep. 101
Summary In this episode, I share real strategies for aspiring podcasters who are not yet ready to launch their shows. I discuss the importance of building an online presence through social media and blogging, as well as tips to engage with the podcast community and develop your unique voice. These are actionable tips to help you rewire your thinking and provide guidelines to build a runway for a successful podcast launch. I wish I had known about this when I started my first podcast. Follow for ...
Feb 28, 2025•8 min
Are you hesitating to start your podcast due to fear or uncertainty? In today's episode, I share my transformative journey through four podcasts, revealing the highs and lows I faced. Discover how I overcame imposter syndrome and learned to embrace my voice, despite the initial doubts that held me back. My podcasting story is a testament to the power of persistence and self-belief. I discuss why I started Tools of the Podcast Trade and why waiting for "perfection" can be a trap. By sharing my st...
Feb 20, 2025•11 min•Ep. 100
There's something fulfilling about having guests on a podcast but let's face it, there needs to be more balance between the benefits to the host, guest, and audience. In this episode, I discuss the advantages and disadvantages of having guests on your podcast. Who does it benefit? How can you make guest episodes more beneficial for all involved? If you currently interview guests on your podcast or considering it, this episode is for you. Key Takeaways: Guest Interviews Can Be Beneficial but Requ...
Feb 13, 2025•11 min•Ep. 99
In this episode, I talk with Matthew Lesko. For years I watched him on TV in his colorful jacket covered in question marks. This is a fun conversation with a man who has spent decades pointing ordinary individuals to free money from the government available in the form of grants and mentorship. If you're looking for some funding for your podcast, this episode is for you. (00:00) Passion Leads to Success – Matthew Lesko emphasizes that to succeed in life, your heart has to be in whatever you do. ...
Feb 06, 2025•23 min•Ep. 98
In this episode, I speak with digital creator and content coach David Griffiths, who shares his journey of struggling with YouTube for over a decade before discovering the key to creating engaging content. He discusses the importance of consistency, audience research, and strategic content creation to grow a loyal following. He also highlights the role of mentorship, the power of short-form video, and the necessity of clear calls to action in building a successful digital presence. Finally, Davi...
Jan 30, 2025•25 min•Ep. 97
Summary : In this episode, I'm happy to geek out over content creation and podcasting tools with Dustin PolyInnovator, a multidisciplinary content creator and entrepreneur. We discussed Dustin's journey in content creation, his unique polycast approach, and strategies for omnichannel content distribution. Dustin shares insights on building a sustainable content strategy, leveraging automation tools, and maintaining consistency in podcasting to avoid podfade. Key Takeaways: Diversifying Content S...
Jan 23, 2025•30 min•Ep. 96
Nicolette Nierras shares her transformative journey from a corporate career to becoming a hypnotherapist and podcaster. After experiencing a divorce and career burnout, she embraced change and pursued her true purpose. Through her story, she emphasizes the importance of self-discovery, authenticity, and building meaningful connections. Nicolette's insights inspire listeners to confront their fears and take bold steps toward their own transformation. I encourage you to listen to Nicolette's story...
Jan 17, 2025•36 min
In this conversation, Jonathan Green discusses the impact of AI on jobs, his journey as an entrepreneur, and how to effectively use AI tools like ChatGPT to enhance business efficiency and podcasting. He emphasizes the importance of being proactive in learning AI to stay relevant in the job market and shares practical tips for podcasters to leverage AI in their content creation process. Key Takeaways: The Role of AI in Business (00:00 - 00:29): AI, particularly ChatGPT, is reshaping industries. ...
Jan 09, 2025•22 min•Ep. 93
In this episode, Anika Jackson discusses the importance of branding when starting a podcast, emphasizing clarity, intentionality, and authenticity. She provides insights on building a brand blueprint that includes purpose, vision, and mission to connect deeply with an audience. Anika also highlights how sound design and storytelling enhance a podcast’s identity. Key Takeaways with Timestamps Clarity in Branding is Key (02:38) Understanding your purpose and vision sets the foundation for a succes...
Jan 03, 2025•26 min•Ep. 92
This episode features Isaac Mashman, personal branding expert and founder of Mashman Consulting Group. We discussed the nuances of personal branding versus marketing, actionable tips for podcasters to grow their audience, and strategies to monetize your brand while staying authentic. “Branding is what you are known as or known for; marketing is how you get more people to know about you.” – Isaac Mashman Connect with Isaac: Website | LinkedIn | Instagram Mentioned: The Strangest Secret by Earl Ni...
Dec 20, 2024•17 min•Ep. 91
In this episode, I talk with Mitch Carson, a celebrated professional speaker and closer. We discuss strategies to elevate your brand through speaking, podcasting and media exposure. Mitch who has graced stages in 63 countries and produced over 2000 live events, shares actionable insights and personal anecdotes that will inspire podcasters and entrepreneurs alike. From leveraging trending topics to creating impactful media strategies, Mitch’s wisdom will help you rise above the noise and stand ou...
Dec 12, 2024•28 min•Ep. 90
Philippa Gamse, a digital analytics and strategy consultant, talks about the critical role of analytics in podcasting and business. We discuss how understanding the metrics can help podcasters and entrepreneurs make informed decisions to improve their business. Philippa shares practical examples of how analytics can expose audience behavior and content effectiveness, and emphasize the importance of adapting strategies based on the data. We concluded with actionable tips for podcasters to enhance...
Nov 21, 2024•19 min•Ep. 89
In this episode, I speak with Jerry Potter about strategies to start, grow, and monetize a podcast. Jerry alos introduces his unique "Modcast" system, designed to streamline podcast production and maximize listener engagement. Key Takeaways: 00:00 - Podcasting Popularity: Over 200 million Americans listen to podcasts every week, showing the strong demand for audio content. 00:15 - Perfect Timing: There’s no better time to launch a podcast, whether you’re a nonprofit, solopreneur, or aspiring pod...
Nov 21, 2024•23 min•Ep. 88
In this conversation, I talk with scalar energy researcher Tom Palladino, who discusses the concept of scalar energy, its potential applications in free energy and health, and the importance of pursuing one's passions. Tom explains how scalar energy can be harnessed for healing and the significance of using photographs to connect with energy fields. He emphasizes the need for morality in using this technology and offers insights for aspiring creators on staying dedicated to their dreams. Unfortu...
Oct 31, 2024•18 min•Ep. 87
