Podcast events provide unparalleled opportunities for podcasters and podcast enthusiasts to connect, learn, and grow. These events are perfect for networking, meeting your podcasting idols, forging valuable relationships, and staying current with the latest trends and developments in the podcasting world. Whether you’re looking to learn from industry experts or discover emerging voices, podcast events are a must-attend for anyone passionate about the podcasting space.

And as the podcasting landscape continues to evolve, there are still a host of exciting podcast events of 2024 lined up from June to December. Whether you’re a seasoned podcaster, a newcomer to the scene, or an avid listener, these events offer valuable opportunities for learning, networking, and growth. 

Let’s dive into the must-attend podcast events for the second half of 2024.

The Exciting Podcast Events of 2024 Part 2: June -December

June

Podcast Power Up Summit

• Date: 2 June, 2024
• Location: Toronto, Canada
• Event type: In Person 
• Cost: $100

The Podcast Power-Up Summit: Emerging Voices and Industry Innovators is more than just your average podcast event, It’s a chance to hear from, and network with, some of the top experts and podcasters from across North America. And it’s a community where you can exchange ideas, gain insights, and forge meaningful connections that can propel your podcasting journey forward.

You can find out all about this upcoming podcast event of 2024 here.

This Is How We Podcast

• Date: 13 June, 2024
• Event type: Virtual 
• Cost: Free

Over the last 6 months, The Podcast Catalyst has hosted three events specifically for podcasters, attracting the interest of more than 200 people in Cape Town. 

In June, they are making the circle even bigger with a virtual event all about best audio practices. From equalizing to syncing and everything in between, they’re going to show us how it get’s done.

This time, Lindsay Johnson, the sound wizard at Crossfade Studio will lead the session at this event. He’ll unpack the best practices for capturing and editing your audio and show you how it’s done. Get a direct line of sight on how to make your podcasting workflow better. 

You can find out more here.

SA Podcast and Music Festival

• Date: 14 – 15 June, 2024
• Location: Johannesburg, South Africa
• Event type: In Person 
• Cost: R600 + 

The SA Podcast & Music Festival is a brand-new podcast event where brands, businesses, culture, and creativity converge in a celebration of the arts. 

The SA Podcast and Music Event is set to be a landmark gathering for podcasters, music enthusiasts, and industry professionals. Scheduled to take place in the vibrant city of Johannesburg, at Emperors Palace.

This event promises to be a dynamic blend of insightful discussions, live performances, and unparalleled networking opportunities.

Find out more here.

International Women’s Podcast Awards

• Date: 19 June, 2024
• Location: London
• Event type: In-Person and Virtual
• Cost: £10-£60 

The International Women’s Podcast Awards is both a podcast awards program as well as a podcast event! The International Women’s Podcast Awards aims to honor and celebrate moments of brilliance in podcasting and the women and people of diverse genders that produce them. 

The submissions have been judged, the nominee shortlists are in! All that’s left now is to celebrate the winners! 

This podcast awards event will take place on the 19th of June, 2024 at the Savoy Place in London, but it will also be a virtual event.

You can find out more about the International Women’s Podcast Awards here.

Related read: Podcast Awards 2024: How to Get Your Podcast Nominated

July

True Crime and Paranormal Festival

• Date: 12-14 July, 2024
• Place: Denver, Colorado
• Event type: In-person
• Cost: $219 – $249 with add-ons available. Find out more here.

Are you a true crime aficionado or a fan of the paranormal? Then you won’t want to miss the 2024 True Crime and Paranormal Festival! This exciting event offers podcast listeners the unique opportunity to meet and interact with their favorite podcasters and content creators in person.

This year’s festival promises an array of crossover collaborations you won’t find anywhere else. It’s a true fan’s dream come true!

As always, there will be live recordings, and engaging panel discussions, and the main draw of the festival is the large Podcast Gallery.

Picture a hall filled with tables representing the best in the true crime and paranormal podcast genres. Podcasters step out from behind their microphones to meet and mingle with fans. Engage in conversations, snap selfies, and create lasting memories with your favorite podcast creators.

Find out more here.

Next up, in August…

August

Podcast Movement

• Date: 19-22 August, 2024
• Location: Washington, D.C.
• Event type: In Person 
• Cost: Currently $339 – $639

Podcast Movement stands as the premier podcast conference worldwide. Each year, this event unites thousands of dedicated podcasters and industry professionals from across the globe. It’s a unique opportunity to learn, grow professionally, and, most importantly, evolve and hone your podcasting skills. 

This year, the event takes place in Washington, D.C., and spans over four dynamic days filled with keynotes, breakout sessions, panel discussions, and networking meetups. There are also usually all kinds of fun things like a pre-event day, add-on workshops, as well as some cool parties!

The core content at Podcast Movement is organized into several topic-based tracks, making it easy for attendees to find sessions that align with their interests and goals.

There are three different passes available, all with different price points.

You can find out more here. There are also currently discounts, payment plans, and team discounts available.

Moving on to September we have…

September

Podcast Day Asia

• Date: 3 September, 2024
• Location: Kuala Lumpur
• Event type: In Person 
• Cost: Find out more about registering and tickets here.

Programmed once again by Podnews Editor and Radio Futurologist James Cridland, Podcast Day Asia 2024 is set to be a day brimming with fantastic speakers and invaluable insights. Whether you’re an independent podcaster, or work within the audio or podcasting industry, Podcast Day Asia offers a wealth of knowledge, opportunities to make connections, and the chance to expand your network.

Podcast Day Asia will feature, amongst other cool happenings, a lineup of industry experts who will share their insights on monetization, listener trends, audience growth strategies, and business expansion. Learn from the best in the field and discover the latest technology advancements, especially in AI tools, to enhance your podcasting skills.

You can find out more about this podcast event here.

London Podcast Festival

• Date: September 5 – 15 September, 2024
• Location: London
• Event type: In-person and virtual
• Cost: Find out more here.

In September, head on over to London for the London Podcast Festival. Produced by the UK’s home of live podcasting, Kings Place, the festival features live shows, workshops, meet and greets, panels, and classes to celebrate the art of podcasting, and the best in UK and international podcasting talent. 

Taking place in front of a live audience at Kings Place, the festival is a chance to celebrate the fast-growing popularity of podcasts whilst giving listeners the chance to meet their favorite podcast hosts. A number of the events will be live-streamed to audiences across the world via KPlayer, the Kings Place pay-per-view platform

With its unique blend of entertainment and insights, the London Podcast Festival promises an unforgettable experience for podcast enthusiasts and creators alike.

Find out more about all that’s on in London here.

PODSUMMIT YYC

• Date: 20 – 21 September, 2024
• Location: Calgary, Alberta, Canada
• Event type: In-person 
• Cost: Find out more about tickets here.

PodSummit YYC 2024 will bring together the brightest minds and most innovative voices in Canadian podcasting for two days of networking, learning, and inspiration. Attendees can look forward to a diverse and dynamic lineup of keynote speakers, panel discussions, workshops, live podcasts, and interactive sessions exploring the latest trends, strategies, and technologies shaping the future of podcasting.

Find out all you need to know here.

International Podcast Day

• Date: September 30, 2024
• Event Type: Virtual
• Cost: Free

Mark your calendars! On September 30, 2024, podcasters and podcast enthusiasts from around the world will come together once again to celebrate International Podcast Day!

Since its inception in 2015, International Podcast Day has grown tremendously, bringing together voices from nearly 70 countries. This special day celebrates the power of podcasts and highlights the global reach and impact of this dynamic medium. Each year, hundreds of hours of audio are broadcast in celebration, showcasing the diversity and creativity of podcasters worldwide.

To get ideas for how you can celebrate, or what’s on the cards for this year’s celebration, click here.

Heading into October, we have…

October

International Women’s Podcast Festival

• Date: 3 -4 October, 2024
• Location: London
• Event type: In-person and virtual
• Cost: Find out more here.

In October, Content is Queen and Spotify are hosting the International Women’s Podcast Festival 2024. This is a two-day event with the mission to unite the global community of female innovators and leaders in podcasting, audio, and broadcasting.

The festival, now in its fourth year, is a celebration of diversity and creativity in the podcasting industry, offering an intersectional experience tailored to help podcasters create and grow in an inclusive and inviting space. It includes live podcast shows, masterclasses, and workshop curation designed to accelerate careers and develop audio skills.

There’ll even be an evening with Sarah Koenig!

Find out more here.

Afros & Audio Podcast Festival

• Date: 18-20 October, 2024
• Location: Baltimore, MD
• Event type: In-person
• Cost: Find out all the information on tickets and passes here.

This year will be the 6th Annual Afros & Audio Podcast Festival. This podcast conference celebrates diversity, creativity, and the indie spirit of podcasting. By attending this podcast event, you’ll be able to connect with like-minded creatives and industry experts, learn from workshops, panel discussions, and a live show. You’ll also join the celebration of the diversity and creativity of Black podcasting, and have the opportunity to grow your podcast with valuable resources and guidance.

You can find out more here.

The Cheerful Earful

• Date: Not yet released
• Location: UK
• Type: In person

Another exciting podcast event still to be added to the 2024 calendar is The Cheerful Earful, the ultimate festival celebrating funny podcasts, both big and small. At his podcast festival, audiences can enjoy live shows of their favorite podcasts featuring all-star guests from the world of British comedy and beyond.

As the UK’s first comedy-podcast festival, Cheerful Earful is a dedicated space to honor the podcasts that make us laugh. It’s a showcase of the nation’s most beloved pods and a platform for emerging shows to connect with new audiences and grow their fan base.

The creators of this festival are committed to establishing and expanding a legacy event that highlights hilarious podcasts, whether they have legions of fans or a handful of loyal listeners. While no exact details have been given for this year’s event, it is promised to return, so stay tuned!

Find out more here.

So Many Podcast Events of 2024 to Look Forward To!

From industry giants to niche community gatherings, the second half of 2024 is packed with podcast events that promise to inspire, educate, and connect podcasters from all walks of life. As the podcasting landscape continues to evolve, attending podcast events can provide valuable insights, networking opportunities, and a chance to be part of the vibrant podcasting community. Also, who doesn’t love attending events, right?! We’re so excited about the diverse range of podcast events still on the calendar for 2024. Each event offers something unique, catering to various aspects of podcasting, whether it’s technical details, marketing strategies, networking, or just plain fun!

These podcast events of 2024 are not to be missed if you want to stay up-to-date on the latest trends in podcasting, expand your network, and gain fresh perspectives. So mark your calendar, book your tickets, and enjoy all the opportunities the world of podcasting has to offer!

And as always, we’re going to be using case studies of shows we think are hitting podcast ads out of the park. This time, we’re using Smartless and Was I In A Cult? to really showcase what it takes to make effective podcast ads…so you can, too!

But Why Are We Focusing On Podcast Ads?

Well, it’s mainly because this is one of the first ways podcasters get into monetizing their podcast. The push for podcast ads has been pretty explosive over the past couple of years. If you’re an avid podcast listener, you’ve no doubt experienced the uptake in ads on your favorite shows. And this is mainly because more and more, brands and advertisers are recognizing podcasts as prime real estate for effective ad campaigns. 

Podcast ads are a great investment for advertisers because they tap into a highly engaged and loyal audience.

Additionally, podcasts offer targeted advertising opportunities, allowing brands to reach specific demographics and interest groups. This targeted approach, combined with the intimate and trusted nature of the medium, results in higher conversion rates and a stronger return on investment for advertisers.

The Rise of Podcast Ads

It’s no wonder then that we’ve seen an overall 9.5% increase in global ad spend when it comes to podcast advertising. What’s more, podcast advertising is expected to snag 2.5B of the budget in the U.S. alone, representing an uptick of 19% year over year.

And that’s great news for podcasting! Of course it is! But! Before all you can see are dollar signs flashing before your eyes, it’s important to know how to use ads on your show. You’re not guaranteed this amazing payout. You have to engage your audience.

And to do that, you need to know how to create effective podcast ads.

So, what makes a podcast ad truly effective? Today, we’re using two top podcasts that we think are acing the podcast ad game and examining just how they do it.

But first! If you’ve never listened to an episode of SmartLess or Was I In A Cult? (You’re missing out! But that’s beside the point…) Here’s a little synopsis of each podcast…

SmartLess

“SmartLess” with Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, & Will Arnett is a podcast that connects and unites people from all walks of life to learn about shared experiences through thoughtful dialogue and organic hilarity. In each episode of SmartLess, one of the hosts reveals his mystery guest to the other two. What ensues is a genuinely improvised and authentic conversation filled with laughter and newfound knowledge to feed the SmartLess mind.

Fun fact! A recent episode of the show featured three former US Presidents!

Was I In A Cult?

Hosted by Tyler Measom and Liz Iacuzzi, Was I In A Cult? is a documentary-style podcast showcasing individuals who have been in, and most importantly, successfully left a cult. Told first-hand by the experiencer themself, these are raw, riveting and inspirational tales of what it means to be a survivor. Using levity and info-tainment, the show humanizes the cultic experience and may leave some of our listeners asking themselves…“Wait…Was I In A Cult?”

Best place to start? I recommend the MLM LULAROE: “WHAT’S YOUR WHY?” episode!

Now, without any further ado, let’s break down why these two shows have such effective podcast ads, so that you can use these strategies to create effective podcast ads on your show, too!

How to Create Effective Podcast Ads

1. Authenticity is Key

When it comes to effective podcast ads, nothing beats authenticity. Both SmartLess and Was I In a Cult? are masterclasses in authenticity when it comes to their ads. 

NOTE: It should be stated here that both of these shows use host-read ads. Host-read ads have proven to be the most effective when it comes to podcast ads. And this is mainly due to that really special relationship that develops between host and listener. And when it comes to advertising, you can leverage this relationship to convert to good responses to your ad campaigns. So that’s always something to bear in mind when you’re looking to create amazing, engaging, and effective podcast ads!

Back to these podcasts…

Both of these shows thrive fundamentally because of the genuine chemistry and spontaneous humor of their hosts. 

And when it comes to their podcast ads, the same authenticity shines through. The hosts don’t just read scripts; they share personal anecdotes and experiences with the products. This creates a seamless blend between content and advertisement, making the ads feel like an organic part of the show rather than an interruption. Although, of course, they do make it clear that what they’re sharing is ad or sponsor-related. This also helps spark the required action when the CTA’s are given, as the listeners already trust what the host is sharing.

Takeaway:

If you’re creating an ad campaign for a sponsor for your podcast, aim to weave in your own stories and experiences with the product. Your listeners already trust you. So they will also trust you about products you love. Remember: Authenticity fosters trust and makes the ad more relatable and engaging.

2. Great Audience Knowledge

This next element of effective podcast ads is vital…great audience knowledge! Remember how we spoke about the trust podcast listeners have for their favorite podcast hosts? Well, podcast hosts need to honor and respect that trust by only partnering with brands or businesses that align with their show’s values. This is so vital for getting favorable outcomes for your podcast ads!

You have to pick brands that align with what you stand for on your show, your values, and even your audience’s interests. If you’re just picking brands based on what you’re getting out of the deal in a monetary sense, your audience will know. And you’ll soon lose them! The worst possible outcome!

SmartLess and Was I In a Cult? clearly only partner with brands that they already love, and crucially, who they know their audience will love too. And this, at the end of the day, helps make the conversions they’re after in terms of sales that much easier to make.

Takeaway:

Understand the interests and needs of your audience. Pick brands or ad partners that resonate with your listener’s values and interests, and ensure that the products advertised are relevant and beneficial to them. This is a vital part of effect podcast ad campaigns!

3. Seamless Integration

One of the standout features of both “SmartLess” and “Was I In A Cult?” is the seamless integration of ads into the episodes. Instead of jarring transitions, the ads flow naturally from the content, maintaining the listener’s engagement and minimizing disruption. Again, it’s always clear that it’s an ad, but the ads on these shows work so well because they’re given the same effort as the rest of the content. 

In other words, they don’t just “tack on” the ads. Ads are given the same kind of consideration as the rest of the content. And that’s why they deliver what the hosts are hoping for. That effort and care is another key element of effective podcast ads.

Takeaway:

Work on integrating ads smoothly into your episodes. Whether through clever transitions, relevant content, or even humorous asides, keep the flow consistent to maintain listener engagement. 

Remember: Podcast ads matter in terms of what you want to get out of them. So you should put the care and effort into making them great so that they give you the outcome you’re looking for!

4. Entertainment Value

Now, this next element will need to be tweaked and tailored specifically for each podcast, and be relevant to whatever “entertainment” means within the context of your show. But for both SmartLess and Was I In A Cult? humor is an integral part of their podcasts. 

And so one of the key reasons their ads work so well is because they both leverage the comedic talents of their hosts to make ads entertaining. The humor and wit that permeate the show are carried into the ads, making them not only bearable but enjoyable. This keeps listeners from skipping through the ads and increases the likelihood of them remembering the advertised products, and taking the required action. (More on that in a bit!)

Takeaway:

Incorporate elements of your show’s unique style into your ads. Whether it’s humor, suspense, or emotion, align the ad’s tone with your podcast’s overall vibe to keep listeners engaged.

5. Clear and Compelling Calls-to-Action

Now, it doesn’t matter how clever or funny your podcast ads are, if they don’t do what you want them to do, they really mean nothing. So, another key element of effective podcast ads is that they include a clear and compelling call-to-action (CTA).

Both SmartLess and Was I In A Cult? excel at this by providing listeners with simple, actionable steps, like visiting a website or using a specific promo code that they share in the ad, making it easy for listeners to follow through.

Bonus points if you add your links to your promos in your show notes!

Takeaway:

Ensure that your ads include a straightforward and appealing CTA. Make it easy for listeners to take the next step, whether it’s visiting a website, signing up for a service, or using a promo code. Use your links!

6. Consistency And Considered Repetition

And finally, Key Number 6 for effective podcast ads: Consistency and considered repetition. Both “SmartLess” and “Was I In A Cult?” have found the right balance between consistency and repetition, or frequency, when it comes to how they place their ads.

Neither show repeats an ad too many times in one episode. (This is a pet peeve of mine, btw!) But they do repeat the ads over different episodes as a way to build familiarity with the brands in question. This is what I’m calling “considered repetition.” Because while frequent exposure to the same ads helps reinforce the message and keeps the product top-of-mind for listeners, you have to find the balance between beneficial and annoying. And repeating the same ad in the same episode multiple times may sound like a good plan on paper, but I promise, in reality, it most certainly is not!

Takeaway:

Run your ads consistently over a series of episodes to build familiarity and trust. Considered repetition helps reinforce the message and increases the likelihood of listeners taking action, but without causing annoyance or driving away your audience.

Go Make Those Effective Podcast Ads!

Podcast ads are a great way to monetize your podcast. But, they have to be done right to be effective! And creating effective podcast ads is both an art and a science. But they are far easier to replicate when you know the formula.

By applying these strategies to your ad campaigns, you can create podcast ads that not only capture attention but also drive action. Shows like “SmartLess” and “Was I In A Cult?” set the standard for how to do podcast advertising right, turning what could be a disruptive experience into an engaging and even enjoyable part of the show. Take a page from their playbook and elevate your podcast advertising game!

What podcasts do you think get podcast ads right? Let us know and we’ll dive into them next!

This Is How We Podcast is an event by The Podcast Catalyst. And the visionary behind both of these entities is Sean Loots. Sean is still forging ahead, doing incredible things for the podcasting space. Both through the Podcast Catalyst, as well as through his own show, Something Shifted.

I recently interviewed Sean for We Edit Podcasts’ In The Spotlight series. And it was great to hear his insights on the podcasting landscape in South Africa. You can find that post here.

And if you are a podcaster or are in the podcasting space and you want your turn In The Spotlight, reach out to me at jennay@weeditpodcasts.com!

This podcast event was the second in the series of the This Is How We Podcast events, but the heart remains the same, to elevate the status of podcast creators in South Africa. 

But more than that, it’s to create a collaborative space where all kinds of podcasters can glean the wealth of knowledge from those who have been making podcasts successfully for some time already.

The most recent This is How We Podcast event was dubbed “The Storytellers Edition”. Because at the heart of a good podcast is a great story. But you have to know how to tell it! And the guests selected to share at the event are true powerhouses when it comes to knowing how to craft a narrative, whether that’s through audio only or through visuals.

We’ll break that down in a bit. But first…

Sean Loots in Conversation with Podcaster Nicole Engelbrecht

First up, Sean interviewed Nicole Engelbrecht. Now, if you’re a fan of true crime podcasts, then Nicole needs little to no introduction, as she is the creator and host of the True Crime South Africa Podcast. It’s an incredibly popular show, both in South Africa as well as further afield.

And part of the reason why Nicole is so good at what she does is because she’s a master storyteller. Her stories always include lots of human details – this is often the key to drawing the listeners in and getting them to care about the story being told. But she’s also just so good at getting the heart of each story to shine through.

During their interview with Sean, Nicole shared some of the things she’s proudest of on her podcasting journey. Topping that list is the community that she’s built around her show. Her Facebook group currently has over 20,000 members, which is incredibly impressive. But more than that, the group carries Nicole’s heart for telling the victim’s stories and carries her ethos – and this is what makes her community extra special.

Nicole also answered all kinds of questions from the audience. One key piece of advice she gave was how to find your voice as a podcaster. Her best tip is to not try to sound like what you think people want to hear. You have to be yourself. Because you can’t pull off being fake for too long!

Nicole was also asked what’s kept her going for so long – particularly as it was quite a lonely journey for her for most of it. And her answer rings true for all kinds of podcasters – it’s the listener feedback that keeps her producing episode after episode. 

As well as the feedback she receives from the families whose stories she’s telling.

Or when there’s a lead on a cold case! 

My biggest takeaway from their interview was how focused Nicole is on telling the victims’ stories. It’s not about sensationalism for Nicole – which is so easy to veer off into, particularly in this genre. And “storytelling” can be ‘misused’ here to just create hype. But to truly tell the victim’s story requires skill, restraint, and care. And Nicole has this in spades!

Nicole has also just released her second book! SIZZLERS: The hate crime that tore Sea Point apart recently hit the shelves. It shares the horrific story of what is considered to be one of the worst mass murders in SA. It’s another incredibly important story that Nicole felt the need to tell.

Nicole, we wish you all the best as you continue to make waves in the podcasting space and beyond!

Part 2: Visual Storytelling Presentation By Mirandi Nel and Curt Ruiters

The second part of the event’s festivities was a presentation by Mirandi Nel, who runs Stellar Stories, and Curt Ruiters, founder of Quickclick Productions.

Both Mirandi and Curt are incredible visual storytellers in their own right.

And together, they gave a fantastic presentation where they shared the vital elements podcasters need to create a video creator’s toolkit. 

This was a really great asset to this storytellers’ edition of the This Is How We Podcast event, particularly with the rise of the video podcast, as well as the need for podcasters to be able to effectively promote their shows via all the different social media channels. Video is simply just the best way to gain traction on these platforms, but knowing how do to so well is the key!

Mirandi and Curt shared openly and expertly about how to take great images and videos with the simplest of tools. They covered the best phone settings, light set-ups, and so much more, really breaking down any perceived barriers that you need to be a film master to make great videos!

They also opened the floor and fielded all kinds of questions with ease and expertise. They really wanted to impart their knowledge and ensure we all left with way more insight than we came in with!

Once again, the latest This Is How We Podcast event is really just a great snapshot of all that is happening in the podcasting space in South Africa. And it’s just so exciting to see all that is taking place in the country when it comes to podcasting and podcast creation!

But don’t just take my word for it! Here are some snippets and takeaways from attendees as well as from many of the guests of honor!

First up…

Nicole Engelbrecht

“My first few years as a podcaster were pretty lonely so I love these events where aspiring and active podcasters as well as podcurious people all get together in one room. I learn as much from others as they may from me, even when I’m the one speaking at the event and it’s just really nice to network within the community. 

Sean Loots is amazing at putting these events together and his passion for podcasting really comes through. [The most recent] podcast event in particular was valuable for me because of the presentation by Mirandi and Curt. As much as I am super comfortable behind the mic I struggle hugely with video so their toolkit and easy ways to use your phone to create content was really insightful.”

If you love true-crime podcasts, check out True Crime South Africa!

And don’t forget to get your hands on a copy of Nicole’s latest book, SIZZLERS: The hate crime that tore Sea Point apart.

And speaking of Mirandi…

Mirandi Nel

“It was once again a lovely experience to attend the “This is How We Podcast” event. The energy in the room was incredible – podcasters were all eager to share their knowledge and experiences, creating a supportive community. It was also insightful to listen to Nicole Engelbrecht and Sean Loots’ discussion, leaving me feeling inspired.”

Mirandi and Curt’s “video creator’s toolkit” was a really practical lesson for podcasters looking to get into video and visual storytelling. Curt summarizes his vision of their presentation and gives some extra encouragement here…

Curt Ruiters

“In summary, if your goal is to begin creating content and sharing your unique story with the world, the best tool to start with is in your pocket [your smartphone]. There are plenty of tools available to make your content stand out, it just takes a bit of learning. Don’t get left behind and keep learning, it’s fun!”

Michail Petersen

Here’s some feedback from event attendee, Michail Petersen. Michail is a soon-to-be-official podcaster. (You can follow the Their Perspective Podcast Instagram account here as well as his YouTube Channel here in preparation for the launch of the show!) Michail shares what he found most valuable about attending this event:

“Community Support: This is How We Podcast fosters a supportive environment within the podcasting community, where attendees feel valued and encouraged to grow. Through events like these powered by organizers like Sean, podcasters gain practical tools and knowledge to enhance their shows and improve editing and recording techniques. 

(This is where Carli and We Edit Podcasts really helped me way before this event by sending me templates for helping me get guests onto my podcast.) (You’re welcome, Michail!)

Do you want those templates, too? Reach out to us and we’ll send them along!

Collaborative Spirit: The event showcases a collaborative spirit among podcasters, with a shared mission to elevate the industry. Attendees freely shared insights and expertise, contributing to the overall growth and success of podcasting in South Africa.”

And finally, some great feedback from attendee and podcaster, Jared Whitfield, one half of Dumpster Salad…(which is a super fun podcast name, am I right?!)

Jared Whitfield

“As always, the This is How We Podcast event was a super inviting experience that provided a great moment for us podcasters to chat, share ideas, and provide support for each other. Nothing refreshes my excitement for podcasting like these events. The live episode with Nicole was very reassuring and insightful about the care that we need to be putting into our shows, while the presentation about video content creation was a very good basic course on content creation that really leveraged phone technology. It was a great way to introduce creators to how to use video, despite the hesitancy from podcasters who are guarded against the idea of using video.

I have come to look forward to these events for both the potential insights, as well as seeing the podcasters I now get to call friends.

Overall these events never fail to excite me and provide opportunities for us all to grow together. 10/10 event.

XOXO, Dumpster Salad”

One Final Note!

Finally! Another big shoutout to Sean Loots from The Podcast Catalyst for all the work that goes into making a podcast event like this possible. A lot of work goes on behind the scenes to make it all seem so effortless! So we salute you for all you’re doing for the podcasting space!

And, as always, we’re looking forward to your next event!

Podcasting People is a bite-sized podcast featuring tips from all kinds people working in the podcast industry. And through the platform of the show, Gareth has actually built an incredible community of podcasting people.

Also, FUN FACT! Gareth Davies gave me my first “podcast guest” spot opportunity on an episode of Podcasting People. (I give a quick tip of content editing! You can listen to that here.) 

So I have first hand experience of the incredible space Gareth is creating for podcasting people to share their knowledge and experience, and just learn and grow together!

Gareth also creates and produces The Music Room. This podcast explores personal stories of inspiration from music industry professionals. On these episodes, guests are invited to leave an item and a piece of advice for others to find.

So with all this experience in both the audio and podcasting worlds, I knew Gareth would have tons of incredible value to share.

(I was right, btw.)

During the interview, Gareth shares his experiences in these two worlds, the things he’s found surprising on his podcasting journey, and some of his biggest lessons.

And of course, some top podcast recommendations!

So, let’s dive right in and step In The Spotlight with Gareth Davies.

In the Spotlight: An Interview with Gareth Davies

Jennay: Gareth! So great to chat to you again. Thank you so much for stepping In The Spotlight! I’m really excited for all you have to share with us today.

But first. We love an origin story here at The Podcast Digest, can you tell us a little about your journey in audio and how you have now come to the podcasting space?

Gareth: I’ve always been deeply involved with music, and became a professional media composer in 2011. I’ve been fortunate enough to write music for both commissioned TV shows and multiple production music libraries, so by now my music has been featured in loads of broadcast programming around the world. 

I see my journey into podcast production as a natural progression from music, there are a lot of skills that would feature in the centre of that Venn diagram. My friends and I were making up radio shows for fun way back in 2002…I think the first shows we did were edited on minidisc(!) So when I was drawn to podcasting as a medium I immediately felt comfortable. My first podcast was made with a fellow composer, and we had no idea how much work would be involved. I was already obsessed though, and I’ve been producing and hosting podcasts ever since.

Jennay: That’s such a cool journey into podcasting! I know the latest TV series you worked on was Toad & Friends. I can’t wait to introduce my niece and nephews to this! They’re going to love it!

And now one of my favorite questions…What are your top three podcast recommendations?

Gareth: I have so many favorite podcasts; similar to music, there’s a podcast for every mood. Ask me again next week and it might be different, but this week I’m playing:

The Rest Is Entertainment: as well as the content being relevant to my work, Marina & Richard hit the balance between entertaining and informative perfectly. The pacing is spot on.

I Never Thought It Would Happen: Chris Difford (of the band Squeeze) hosts this brilliant interview show in collaboration with the charity Help Musicians. 

In & Around Podcasting: I have to give a shout out to Danny & Mark at the hosting platform Captivate, who have gone the extra mile with this industry show. I like it because it doesn’t just cater to industry professionals, but to indie podcasters too. That’s basically my mission for Podcasting People.

Jennay: These are great picks! I’ve now added The Rest is Entertainment and I Never Thought It Would Happen to my list! And In & Around Podcasting has such a great theme song! (Besides being an all-round stand-out show!)

Now, let’s get into your podcasts. What initially sparked the idea for Podcasting People?

Gareth: I was becoming increasingly bored of podcasting podcasts from people who have made a business out of telling people how to podcast. Podcasting is a fast-evolving medium, so to hear from people who actually work in the industry and experience those nuanced changes in the landscape is way more beneficial in my view.

On top of this, I started taking on podcast clients last year but realized I didn’t really know anyone in the podcast industry. What better way to get to know people than by starting a podcast?

Jennay: Now that we know what sparked the initial idea for Podcast People, can you share a little about the mission and vision behind the show?

Gareth: I touched on it before…promises of fame and fortune if you buy someone’s course seem ridiculous. I want the indie community to get to know awesome industry people like I have. The mission is to bridge that gap through the power of podcasting. In addition, I’d love to see an Apple-style ‘genius’ bar at podcast events where indie podcasters can go and talk to industry professionals. If anyone wants to pay me to set that up I’m all ears! 

Jennay: Someone PLEASE pay Gareth to set that up! That would be amazing!

Now, from an audio perspective, you’re in this really interesting position where you’ve been in both the music production world and the podcasting space. Are there similarities or crossovers? Or how do they differ?

Gareth: As a freelance composer there are lots of parallels with indie podcasting. You have to wear all the hats and wear them well. You have to consider your environment and audio equipment when recording, mic technique…there’s a lot of crossover. I bet if indie podcasters were to have a go at producing music they might surprise themselves.

Also – in my experience – composers and podcasters aren’t that different as people. We’re all trying to tell a story through sound. Most of us are trying to cut through the noise, and are wearing multiple hats as I mentioned earlier. Most of us appreciate a sense of community to keep us going, which is why I started communities for both my Music Room and Podcasting People podcasts.

Jennay: I know I’ve told you this before (and I’ve said it above, too) but I think you’ve done something really special with the community you’ve created around Podcasting People. And I’m sure with The Music Room as well. What might have started off as a way for you to meet podcasting people has morphed into a way for podcasting people to meet podcasting people. And that is pretty cool in my book!

Now, who are some people you admire from a professional standpoint?

Gareth: I have so much admiration for all of the guests on Podcasting People. If I had to pick people out it’s because I’ve seen close up the work they’ve been doing.

James Cridland, for instance, really needs a day off. I appreciate all the work he does to deliver industry news consistently, and he remains really approachable. 

Danny Brown at Captivate has given me lots of time recently; we’ve featured on each other’s shows, and Danny seems to teach me something new about podcasting every time he opens his mouth. 

I also have to mention the mighty Arielle Nissenblatt for immediately saying ‘YES’ to being my first guest on Podcasting People. It gave me the confidence to make the show in the first place. 

Finally, Jennay Horn is a wonderfully positive presence on social media, which is always so welcome. Have you heard of her?

Jennay: [Insert blush face…and a tear!] Thank you, Gareth. I am incredibly humbled by the mention. And completely agree with you on all the above. James, Danny, and Arielle are truly some legendary Podcasting People!

Changing pace a bit, what has been the most surprising thing you’ve experienced in the podcasting space?

Gareth: I guess the ratio of how difficult it is to stand out to how nice people are. You’d think everyone would be more guarded and in it for themselves, but honestly I’ve not experienced any of that. It feels like we’re all in it together, and everyone I’ve met in the industry has been welcoming and supportive. 

Jennay: That really has been my experience in the space, too. And what would you say has been the biggest lesson you’ve learned on your podcasting journey?

Gareth: Don’t take on more than you can handle. My answer to most questions is ‘that would make a great podcast’, so I have to really consider how to designate my time. Our most valuable commodity is time, so I say do less better.

Jennay: That’s a great saying! Have you considered podcast merch! I would DEFINITELY buy a t-shirt with “Do Less Better” sprawled across it! It’s a great motto!

What are your goals for the next couple of months with regards to your podcast/other projects?

Gareth: The response to Podcasting People has been lovely, and potential guests keep saying yes to my invites, so I’m considering doubling the output and going weekly. 

In other news, I’ve just rewritten the music to the Music Room podcast, so that’ll go live with the next episode. Talking of the Music Room, I have a special episode in May that’s all about managing mental health in the music industry. It feels like the most important episode I’ve produced to date so I’m looking forward to seeing what the reaction will be.

I’ve also just launched some services via The Sound Boutique, so if anyone needs anything – from music/sound design through to editing services or even full production – come and say hello.

Jennay: I’m really looking forward to listening to that episode! (And your new music!)

I’m also incredibly excited to see your next steps on Podcasting People and all the cool projects you’ll take on via The Sound Boutique. 

Thank you so much, Gareth, for joining us In The Spotlight today! Anything else you’d like to share? And how can readers connect with you?

Gareth: I really appreciate being asked to answer these questions. I enjoyed answering them!

And if you’re involved in podcasting at any level, come and join the community at http://podcastingpeople.community

Who Will Be in the Spotlight Next?

Are you a podcaster? Or do you work in the podcasting space? Do you want the chance to be In The Spotlight? I’d love to connect with you! Reach out to me at jennay@weeditpodcasts.com.

Who knows! You could be In The Spotlight next!

Want to check out some more In The Spotlight interviews? Here’s the interview with South African podcaster, Sean Loots: In the Spotlight: Interview with Podcast Creator Sean Loots.

But first, a little more Case Study background and why we felt it an important project to tackle…

The podcasting space is a fascinating place. On the one hand, it’s exploding and expanding as a medium, with new shows joining the space, on what feels like a minute-by-minute basis. (Fun fact! At the time of this ‘going to print’ according to the Podcast Index, 353,592 episodes had been published in the last 30 days!)

(Information correct on day of publishing.)

But on the other hand, podcasting is still a medium in its infancy. There’s so much to learn. But, if we’re being honest. There’s also a lot of misinformation out there.

So, we figured we can put our years of podcasting experience and knowledge to effective use by diving into all kinds of podcasting topics and sharing the results of what we find. So that you can build your podcast on workable strategies and a factual foundation.

(We channel a little MythBusters on this post, if you’re looking to bust some of those pesky podcasting myths: The Truth About Some Common Podcasting Myths)

And so the Case Studies Series was born!

And first up, we’re tackling one of the most-Googled podcasting questions: How do I get my podcast to rank on Apple Podcasts?

Yes, there are a number of really great articles and resources on the topic. And for sure, you can and should read those! (The more you know, right?!) But for this case study, we’re going to dive into how one particular powerhouse podcaster was able to accomplish this impressive feat!

And that powerhouse podcaster is none-other than Steph Taylor!

But before we get into it, a disclaimer..

PLEASE NOTE:

This is a case study of what worked for one podcaster. This does not necessarily mean this exact method will yield the same results for every podcaster. There will always be a number of outside factors and circumstances that can affect the success of any of the strategies we share here. (And there’s always that tricksy algorithm to consider!) 

The aim of these case studies is to explore the methods other podcasters have found to be successful, to share what’s worked for them, so that you can tailor these to your own show and the factors within your control linked to your show.

NOW! Let’s get into it!

A We Edit Podcasts Case Study: A Strategy to Rank In Apple Podcasts featuring Steph Taylor

First up, let’s talk a little about our featured podcaster, Steph Taylor. Steph is an incredible online business strategist who helps service-based business owners build profitable and sustainable online businesses that continue to grow even when they’re offline. And here’s a fun IMPRESSIVE fact: In just 12 months, Steph took her online business from a hundred K to over a million dollars without the tradeoff of more hustle and more time.

But that’s not all Steph does! Steph is also the host of the podcast, Imperfect Action, which has clocked over two million downloads and counting. Through her episodes, Steph teaches online businesses how they too can reach financial choice, time, and location freedom through her framework that blends strategy, content sales systems, and mindset. 

All of that is incredibly impressive!

But the reason we picked Steph as the featured podcaster for this first study is what Steph was able to do the week she launched her podcast…

She reached that coveted Number 1 spot in Apple Podcasts during launch week!

So, how did Steph do it? How did she rank in Apple Podcasts in the week she launched her show?

Let’s find out!

Case Study: Steph Taylor’s Strategy to Rank In Apple Podcasts

Step 1: Produce High-Quality, Listener-Focused Content

First and foremost, it all starts with creating high-quality episodes. Now this will literally be our “Step 1” for every strategy for achieving podcast success. This is will never not be a vital step. If you want your show to grow and achieve success, you will always have to create high-quality episodes. High-quality in terms of content and audio production.

But Steph Taylor took this to the next level when it comes to her strategy to rank in Apple Podcasts. Not only did she focus on creating high-quality first episodes, Steph also ensured that those first episodes were listener-focused. (We’ll dive deeper into this in Step 3!)

Step 2: Launch with A Number of Episodes

Step 2 in Steph’s strategy to rank in Apple Podcasts is something we always tell our clients: When you’re planning your podcast launch, plan to launch with more than one episode!

Why?

Well, because this helps fast-track the relationship between you and your listeners. Just as you get to know someone the more you engage in conversation with them, so your listeners get to know you better the more content you share with them. And this is vital for building a loyal listener base.

But there is another key reason why this is a great podcast launch strategy, especially if you’re looking to launch with a bang! (Again, we can’t promise a Number 1 rank in Apple Podcasts, but there will be great launch stats!) And the reason is simple. The more amazing, value-filled episodes you have available on Podcast Launch Day, the longer your listeners will stay engaged with your show. And this, as with any listener-based medium, does great things for the metrics.

This is what Steph Taylor did when she launched her podcast, and this is what we highly recommend all podcasters do whenever they’re planning their podcast launch!

(Want more insider tips to help you ace your podcast launch? Then check out this episode of Business Beyond the Mic where Carli and Reuben break down all you need to know about successful podcast launches!)

Step 3: Acing the Algorithm

And now we get to the key step that helped Steph rank in Apple Podcasts at Number 1 the week that she launched her show. 

(Remember: Algorithms are tricksy things, and we cannot guarantee this will definitely work for everyone! BUT this is a great strategy for building your loyal listener base and getting your target audience finding and engaging with your show as you launch.)

Was Steph able to achieve this because she had a strong brand and a massive email list already? Guess what? No! Steph actually had quite a small email list – around 1,000 subscribers – as she prepared to launch her podcast.

HOT TIP! This email list had been built by consistently creating highly-valuable free content…this is a really effective way to grow a mailing list.

But here is the magic of Steph’s podcast launch strategy…

Steph made sure her first episodes were specifically listener-focused. Steph co-created her first 10 to 20 episodes essentially with her target audience. 

She went into certain business Facebook groups and shared that she was starting a podcast. She also shared that the episodes were going to be five to ten minutes long, and that she would be talking about relevant marketing issues.

Then she asked the key question…”What questions do you have or what struggles do you have when it comes to marketing your business?” 

And BINGO! She got a long list of things that people – her target audience! – were struggling with. From there, what Steph did was pick some of the top questions or struggles people seemed to have, and she created her first couple of episodes around these. A genius way to ensure that your podcast is serving its target audience right from its launch!

And then when Steph had launched her podcast and published those episodes, she went back to that Facebook group, found that relevant question, and then commented to share that she had just created an episode based on this question. And she added the link to that episode in the comment! 

The result? Excited engagement from her target audience right from Launch Day!

But there is one more element to Steph’s launch strategy that helped seal the deal to rank in Apple Podcasts…

So, we mentioned Steph had a small email list. And so she used that mailing list to announce that her podcast was launching soon. BUT! She didn’t tell them the name of the podcast just yet. This meant her audience couldn’t go and subscribe until the launch date. 

Why did this matter?

Because one of the understood ways of how the “top charts ranking” works in Apple Podcast is that it is based on the number of new subscribers over seven days. But, it is a weighted average. 

So Steph used this information to her advantage.

She wanted as many people as possible to subscribe in those first 24 hours, ideally in those first 48 hours. So in that time period, she went to work. She sent out those emails to her mailing list, she showed up on social media, she commented in those Facebook groups with a very specific CTA – “Subscribe to my podcast”.

And her hard work and strategy paid off!

And because Steph had laid a clear path to get her target audience to her podcast, within her desired timeframe. And because, when her listeners found her show, they found a number of amazing episodes perfectly tailored to the type of content they were looking for, Steph was able to score big in the metrics department. And the result was that coveted Number 1 rank in Apple Podcasts.

From that incredible start, Steph’s podcasting journey has only gained more traction and has soared from strength to strength. Imperfect Action has turned into a massive driver of new email subscribers which, in turn, have converted to impressive online course sales. This, in turn, is what runs her business. 

(Fun fact! Imperfect Action actually wasn’t the name of the podcast when Steph launched! She rebranded! Perhaps that will be a future case study? How to do a successful podcast rebrand….)

So, Steph really laid such a great foundation for her show that her podcast has almost become the engine of her entire business.

And if that’s not something to aspire to, we don’t know what is!

If you want to hear more from Steph Taylor, then check out her conversation with Carli on this episode of Business Beyond the Mic. There is so much value in that conversation, you don’t want to miss out! 

And as we stated in the beginning of this case study, Steph Taylor is an incredible business strategist! She has created some amazing resources to help you achieve your dreams and far-surpass your goals. So head on over to her website to find out all she has to offer!

The Case Study Conclusion

In conclusion, Steph Taylor was able to rank in Apple Podcasts at the Number 1 spot during her launch week for three reasons. First and foremost, Steph consistently created value-packed, listener-focused episodes. This is true from those all-important first few launch episodes (recall how she tailored those first episodes to be exactly what her target audience was looking for!) right through to her 700th episode and counting! Valuable content first, that will always be the key. 

Secondly, Steph launched with a number of episodes. Again, this is something we always tell our clients. You want to launch with at least 3 episodes. This helps fast-track the relationship between you and your listeners. But it also helps keep your listeners engaged with your show, especially as you launch. The more content that you launch with, the more there is to consume, and the longer listeners ‘stay’ on your show.

And finally

Steph did the groundwork to ensure her target audience found her show right away, so that she could use the way Apple Podcasts evaluates listens in her favor during her launch week. The double punch of getting her listeners to ‘tune in’ during those specific 48 hours and creating the exact type of content her target audience were after is what helped Steph Taylor rank in Apple Podcasts at Number 1 in her podcast launch week.

Again, we can’t guarantee that following these steps will ensure that you rank in Apple Podcasts as soon as you launch your podcast. As much as we wish we could! But we can guarantee that applying these steps will, without a doubt, set you off on a great trajectory as you launch your show. 

And through studying cases of what has helped other podcasters achieve success, and applying these strategies to your own show, or tweaking them and combining them with your own podcasting strategies, you will find opportunities and strategies tailored to your show’s success journey!

Want help with launching your own podcast? Check out our LAUNCH PACKAGES here or schedule a FREE CALL with one of our team here.

Want to find out more about a specific avenue of the podcasting journey? Or want to know how another podcaster aced an angle of the podcasting process? Tell us! And we’ll get “On the Case!”

Let’s start with that hot take, shall we…

Why (I Believe) Every Podcast Should Be Edited

I’m just going to come right out and say it. I firmly believe that all podcast episodes require at least some basic editing. And, to be clear, I’m taking about content editing. Audio leveling, taking out those awkward pauses, coughs, “hmm-hmms” (Top tip! Mute your mic when your guest is responding!) and any excessive use of filler words like “ahs” and “ums” are a given.

That kind of editing is just necessary to give your listeners a great listening experience. Remember, a podcast is primarily an audio medium. So, another given, you have to focus on great sounding audio if you want your show to do well. Bad audio quality will make listeners tune out quicker than you can say…well, “Bad audio” I guess? 

So, that kind of editing should always be done. As I said, the editing I’m talking about is content editing. I.e removing actual chunks of audio.

This is where the controversy enters the chat. I know some podcasters are “against” this idea of ‘editing’ their podcast because they don’t want to lose the “natural conversation” that’s the hallmark of great podcasts.

I get that. I don’t want you to lose that either. Because it is part of the charm that makes podcasts so special. But content editing your episodes won’t make you lose that magic! When done well, your listeners won’t even know you have edited anything out.

And the above is actually part of the problem. When you think about some top-notch interview podcasts, it never sounds like the conversations have been edited. It just sounds like they pressed ‘record’ and went for it. Then they added their intro and outro, a bit of music, and hit “publish”. And so the thought process that has been born because of this is that if the “podcasting greats” are doing that, shouldn’t I been doing that, too.

Related read: A Case Study of the Best Podcast Intro: Steven Bartlett’s The Diary of a CEO

The problem is, I don’t think that’s exactly what the greats are doing. 

Let me unpack this. Let’s think about those podcasts that we think of as being something special again. (One of my top picks would be The Diary of a CEO with Steven Bartlett.) Yes, they sound natural. But there is something else that has set these apart. They are jam-packed with value. For beginning to end, you are engaged with the conversation, and you stay engaged, because everything they’re offering has value.

Now, there are two possible reasons for this

1. Absolutely everything they say and absolutely everything their guests say from the second ‘record’ has been hit is amazing…

…or…

2. There has been some content editing after the fact so that all we, as the listeners, get is highly valuable content.

And I’m willing to bet that 95.5%* of the time it’s the latter.

Because you always want to give your listeners episodes that are jam-packed with valuable content. You also want to be respectful of their time and their commitment to you and your show. Rather give them 30 minutes of fantastic content, rather than the whole hour of conversation that actually happened but not everything offers your audience value.

(*PLEASE NOTE: This statistic is just a guess. I have conducted no hard research other than my conversations with some top-notch podcasters who I know are content editing their episodes. But again, they’re doing this so well that we, as listeners, would never know!)

You can give your audience highly valuable episodes every single time and keep that natural, easy conversation if you carefully content edit your episodes.

But, as I’m sure you can gather, this kind of editing takes time. And a fairly comprehensive set of editing skills so that you’re keeping that natural sound, while taking out anything that dilutes your content.

And that brings me to my next point, why it can be really beneficially to outsource your podcast editing to a professional podcast editor, or, better yet, a full-service podcast production agency…

But I’m not just here to tout my thoughts without also giving you some solid evidence. So, without any further adieu, take a look at the 7 benefits of hiring a professional podcast editor (or podcast editing company!) to handle your podcast editing.

7 Benefits of Hiring a Professional Podcast Editor to Edit Your Podcast

So let’s just dive right in, shall we? I’m shooting from the hip here. I know there are logistics to consider, I totally get that, and we will get into that. But for now, I’m simply stating the fact that hiring a professional podcast editor or podcast production company to edit your podcast will offer you several key benefits.

1. Professional Quality

Production companies specialize in audio production and editing – this is literally what they do. Meaning they have the expertise, professional resources, and the experience to deliver high-quality audio. (Obviously, this is dependent on the quality of the raw audio that they have to work with. Even the best in the business can’t do all that much if the raw audio sounds like it was recorded with whatever mic they use do to the announcements at grocery stores!)

But you give them good raw audio, and reputable, a professional podcast editor can work some real magic!

2. Access to Expertise

Working with professional podcast editors or a podcast production agency gives you incredible access to expertise. Well-established podcast companies have a team of experienced professionals who specialize in various aspects of audio production. (As well as other aspects of the podcast process! If you’re also looking to outsource your show notes, transcripts, and even your podcast marketing assets. You can check out all We Edit Podcasts offers here.) 

By working with a podcast production company to edit your podcast episodes, you gain access to a wealth of expertise and knowledge that can elevate the quality of your podcast and help you achieve your creative vision.

3. Time Savings

Here’s possibly the biggest benefit of hiring a professional podcast editor or podcast editing company to edit your podcast…the time factor.

Editing a podcast (yes, even if you’re not editing your episode content) can be time-consuming. This is especially true if you’re new to the process or have limited editing skills. Outsourcing editing to a production company frees up your time to focus on other aspects of podcasting, such as content creation, marketing, and audience engagement, allowing you to grow your show more efficiently.

Which brings us nicely to…

4. Scalability

I’m willing to bet that every podcaster enters the space with the goal to grow their podcast and achieve podcast success – whatever that looks like to you as a podcaster. But the potential for a podcast to grow is directly related to your ability to grow it. I’m talking about scalability. 

Podcast growth requires you consistently do all the things that podcast growth entails. Besides putting out your (high-quality!) usual podcast episodes, you may need to up your guest appearances, increase your marketing efforts, or even increase the frequency of your episodes – whatever your show and your audience need to grow.

But whatever it is, it all means much more time and effort needs to be funneled to your podcast. Time which you may not have. Professional podcast production companies or agencies have the capacity to scale their services to accommodate your evolving needs, whether you’re producing more frequent episodes, upping your marketing strategies, or exploring other opportunities for collaboration and expansion.

5. Consistency

The next benefit of hiring a professional to edit your podcast is consistency.

Consistency is key in podcasting, both in terms of release schedule and audio quality. Production companies can help maintain a consistent standard across episodes, ensuring that each one meets your desired level of quality and aligns with your podcast’s overall tone and style. Again, this is what they do. This is what We Edit Podcasts does. And we do this for all our clients.

Take a look at the packages We Edit Podcasts offers here.

6. Prioritization

Which brings me to a really important benefit of hiring a professional to edit your podcast, prioritization. When you’re the one editing your podcast, especially if your show is a side hustle, editing and anything related to your show is usually a “as I have time” situation.

But when you outsource your podcast editing, your podcast becomes someone’s priority. And when it comes to We Edit Podcasts, provided we have all the necessary assets, we can edit your podcast episode and get it back to you in *48 hours! 

You just send off your assets to us, and you let our audio engineers work their magic. And “Hey, Presto!” You’ll have your episode ready to go, all while you kept doing everything that you’ve got to do!

*NOTE: There are circumstances that can change this, but this will always be communicated with the client. 

7. Customization and Creative Input 

And finally, when you choose to have a podcast editing professional edit your podcast, you can get access to new creative input and customization to help you make your podcast all you’ve dreamed it to be and more. Particularly if the podcast production agency you pick offers premium and custom launch packages…

With these types of launch packages, you’ll get a team that will work closely with you to understand your vision, goals, and preferences for your podcast.* They can offer creative input and suggestions to enhance your content and make it more engaging and compelling for your audience. Basically, choosing a full-service podcast production agency can give you options and assets you probably wouldn’t have access to if you were doing every part of the podcasting process on your own.

*Editing company and package-offering dependent, obviously. 

To Hire a Professional Podcast Editor or Not? That Is The Question…

So, in closing, I’ll say it again (and probably again, and again…and again) I firmly believe that all podcast episodes require at least some basic content editing. Yes, you want your conversations to sound natural – that is part of the charm of podcasts after all. I get that. But you always, ALWAYS, want to give your listeners episodes that are jam-packed with valuable content and are respectful of their time and their commitment to you and your show.

And unless you can ensure that your entire conversation, and every answer from your guests is abundantly valuable, you should edit out anything that dilutes your episode. I promise, you can do this AND ensure that your conversations sound natural.

You just have to know how to edit.

Which is why outsourcing all that editing could be the best move for your show in the long run. There are obviously always factors to consider, budget being a top one. But in many cases, that financial output pays back its dividends through all the benefits you gain access to. Not to mention the “price” of all the time you’ll get back!

Overall, hiring a podcast production company to edit your podcast can provide you with the expertise, professionalism, and support you need to create a successful and impactful podcast. By outsourcing editing to professionals, you can focus on what you do best – creating great content – while leaving the technical aspects of audio production in capable hands. This will ensure that you’re always putting out the best possible episodes for your audience. And this will always be vital for longterm podcasting success!

Ready to try a podcast editor to edit your podcast?

So if you’re ready to experience all the benefits of choosing a professional podcast editor to take care of your podcast editing, why not reach out to us? You can schedule a free call with one of our team here. Or, you can even give our editing a go with our free trial episode offer! We would love to help you make your podcasting dream come to life!

NOTE: Again, the thoughts expressed in this post are my own. If you take umbrage (one of my favorite words, btw) to anything I’ve said, please don’t hesitate to reach out! I’d love to hear your thoughts on the topic!

Sean is a veteran podcast creator and all-around audio aficionado from South Africa. I recently interviewed Sean for We Edit Podcasts’ In The Spotlight series. And it was great to hear his insights on the podcasting landscape in South Africa. You can find that post here. 

And if you are a podcaster or are in the podcasting space and you want your turn In The Spotlight, reach out to me at jennay@weeditpodcasts.com!

Now, back to my recap. 

The heart behind all of the This Is How We Podcast events is to elevate the status of podcast creators in South Africa. 

But more than that, it’s to create a collaborative space where all kinds of podcasters can glean the wealth of knowledge from those who have been making podcasts successfully for some time already.

In light of this, the latest This Is How We Podcast event took the form of live interviews with some big names in the South African podcasting scene.

First up, Sean interviewed the Jody and Ross, otherwise known as the Bioscope Brasse! The Brasse are nearing their 100th episode – a huge feat in its own right! But in 2023, the Bioscope Brasse made it onto the Apple Podcasts list of Shows We Love in 2023. 

During their interview with Sean, Jody, and Ross shared the ins and outs of their podcasting process. They shared the why and how of their podcasting journey. And they also were really open about the challenges of creating a high-quality podcast.

My biggest takeaways from their interview: 

Keep your why simple. Their “why” was free movie tickets! 

You have to be passionate about whatever your podcast is about. Jody and Ross are SO passionate about films. Their podcast serves as an outlet for that passion. And it’s what brings their listeners in.

Authenticity is key. Jody and Ross have a genuine friendship. They also aren’t trying to be anyone other than who they are. This is why their audience stays.

Editing is crucial. Ross shared how much time goes into editing down an episode. He shared how careful and thoughtful he has to be during the editing process to ensure that their conversation still sounds natural – and if you’ve ever listened to an episode, you’d actually be surprised at how much time is spent editing. The conversation sounds so natural and easy. But this is the result of editing – and editing with your audience in mind – ensuring that you’re offering them value from start to finish.

And Jody and Ross certainly do this! But I’m not just saying that because I’m a fan of their show. Their stats testify to this. They have a 96% listen rate. 96%! This means that their listeners are listening to literally the entire episode – and only drop off before the closing. If that doesn’t tell you you’re doing something right in the world of podcasting, I don’t know what will!

Part 2

The second live interview of the This Is How We Podcast event featured Francois Retief, COO of iono. Iono.fm offers podcast hosting and radio streaming services with audio ad monetization features.

During his interview, Francois shared an in-depth presentation on how to understand podcast analytics and what to do with the data.

Now, if you ever thought analytics were boring, you need to hear Francois speak! His passion for stats shines through all he shares. And he truly makes the numbers become more than just numbers. The numbers are your audience, and understanding the analytics better helps podcasters better understand their audience. The stats also tell you so much about your listeners! And you can then use this knowledge to better your show.

Francois also shared with fantastic but realistic insight what podcasters need to know when it comes to that all-important topic of podcast monetization. 

He gave an honest look at what kind of numbers you should be aiming for if you’re looking to run successful ad campaigns or look for sponsorship. And he also gave practical tips for the type of monetization options on the table for different types of shows.

Perhaps my favorite part of the presentation was what Francois shared on the power and value of audio. This is why we had all gathered together in that room. It’s the power of audio that brought us together. And it was the power of audio that hummed through the air as we all mingled and swapped stories after the interviews. 

This podcast event really was an incredible glimpse at what is happening in the podcasting space in South Africa. And it’s so encouraging to see how the love of podcasts and the pull of the medium are taking root and growing exponentially in the country!

But don’t just take my word for it! I connected with some incredibly cool people at the event, and here is what some of them had to say:

Jonathan Warncke

Jonathan has created many podcasts! They include How To Make a Podcast in South Africa and Off the Grid in SA. Jonathan also serves as the managing director of the South African Podcasters Guild. Here is what he had to say about This Is How We Podcast:

“I really appreciated the format of “This is How we Podcast”. The 1-2 punch of relaxed, engaging conversation with the Bioscope Brasse team and the insightful presentation from Francois struck just the right tone for South African podcasting. 

We’re on an adventure, we’re having fun, but we’re also looking to the future. We’re looking to grow this industry into a vibrant, multicultural force for change, dialogue, and new employment opportunities for South Africans.

Sean is serving the community with his trademark humor, humility, and warmth. I look forward to the next meetup.”

Krystle Kustanovich

Krystle is a Mental Performance Coach. You can check out her podcast, I Never Thought of It That Way here. And here are Krystle’s thoughts:

“Before going to this event, I thought I was failing as a podcaster. 

Turns out I was wrong!!

I’m a baby podcaster. I have:
7 episodes
111 listens
31 subscribers

These numbers usually bother me (they look so little) but [at the event] I learned that I’m exactly on the right track!!!

Stoked to be learning more about this new medium that I find so much joy in!”

Diego Domingo

Diego the Head of Member Affairs for the South African Podcasters Guild. He is also the host and founder of the worshipGear Podcast. This is what Diego had to say about the event:

“I recently attended the This Is How We Podcast event hosted by Sean Loots. It was an incredible event where I got to meet some prominant podcasters in SA, namely the Gen C podcast and Bioscope Brasse. The Bioscope Brasse also had a very interactive and informative chat on how they started which put a lot of things into perspective for me.”

Kate Thompson Davy

Kate is a freelance journalist and sometimes indy podcaster. You can find her journalistic work here. And her podcast “It Happened Here” on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all the others. (Kate promises to start making episodes again soon!) Here are Kate’s thoughts on the event:

“The ‘This Is How We Podcast’ event was great – I really enjoyed the first session which was essentially a live podcast recording with the Bioscope Brasse. I was amazed how articulate and smooth they (and Sean) were, completely off the cuff. I really need to up my game in this department to reduce my editing time. The second session about podcast analytics was also extremely informative, and provided the kind of numbers about our industry that are incredibly hard to find. Thanks to Iono.fm for this transparent and informative presentation. I’m not great at networking, but these events make it easy to learn and meet fellow creators. Looking forward to the next one.”

Sean is a podcasting powerhouse! Not only is he the host of the Something Shifted podcast, and the brains behind The Podcast Catalyst, but Sean is also the force behind This Is How We Podcast, a series of in-person events in South Africa.

During the interview, Sean shares all about the upcoming event, and he also gives great insight into the South African podcasting landscape, and so much more! Let’s dive right in and step In The Spotlight with Sean Loots.

In the Spotlight: An Interview with Sean Loots

Jennay: Firstly, Sean, thank you so much for stepping In The Spotlight! I’m really excited for all you have to share with us today.

But first. We love an origin story here at The Podcast Digest, can you tell us a little about how you came to the podcasting space?

Sean: Absolutely! My journey to podcasting started on the radio. I worked on radio from 2006 – 2022 and won a South African Radio Award during my time as the afternoon drive show host on Good Hope FM. I also created a lot of audio for on-demand listening. During my time as afternoon drive show host, my daughter was born and diagnosed with chronic health issues. 

In 2020, I published a short podcast series relating to Zoe’s special needs called Unstoppable and found the process to be very cathartic. 
Since then I have told many of my own stories (Unstoppable, Some Assembly Required) and helped others craft theirs (Life in the Psych Lane, The Expansive, Veritas Wealth, The Good Life Popup Podcast, to name a few). 

My podcast is called Something Shifted with Sean Loots and deals with change. 

Jennay: Wow, Sean, that’s quite the origin story. I found it really beautiful how sharing your story was cathartic for you – while being something that is helpful and encouraging to others. That’s truly the power of audio story-telling at play. It changes all involved. I admire you for stepping out and sharing your stories!

And now one of my favorite questions…What are your top three podcast recommendations? 

Sean: Heavyweight, The Girlfriends, and Hidden Brain.

Jennay: Great picks! The Girlfriends was one of my top picks for the best of 2023! 

Now, let’s dive a little deeper and talk about your upcoming event on April 4th, This Is How We Podcast. Can you tell us a little about what the vision behind This Is How We Podcast is?

Sean: The heart behind all of the This Is How We Podcast events is to elevate the status of podcast creators in South Africa. 

And then taking it that step further, to share the wealth of knowledge accumulated by those that have been making podcasts successfully for some time already.

Related read: Podcasts In Review: The Best Podcasts of 2023

Jennay: That’s really exciting! And I’m incredibly excited that I get to attend April’s “This Is How We Podcast” event! What are you hoping attendees will experience at and take away from the event?

Sean: At this upcoming event, I will be in conversation with the hosts of Bioscope Brasse, Jody Felton & Ross Solomon about how they make their show, what they find most challenging, and how they made the Apple Podcasts Shows We Love list for 2023. 

Francois Retief from IONO.fm will also deliver a presentation about podcast analytics and answer questions about how to use data to monetize a podcast.

I also hope that attendees learn something from another creator’s process and maybe tweak it to fit their own workflow. 

I firmly believe that by gaining a better understanding of how to read podcast data, attendees will be able to apply this knowledge and explore ways of monetizing their projects.

The opportunity to network and collaborate with other creators is another strong reason to attend the This Is How We Podcast event series. 

Jennay: If I was incredibly excited before, now I’m quadruple that! That all sounds pretty amazing.

Now, Sean, you’re really involved in all things podcasting taking place in South Africa.

What three words would you use to describe the podcasting landscape in South Africa? And can you expand upon these?

Sean:

1. Exploding 

As a podcaster, I often receive emails and WhatsApp messages from people wanting to know more about the medium. I have therefore developed podcast coach and consultation services. 

Find out more about all the services Sean offers here.

2. Diverse

From science to comedy, sport to finance, wellness to art and everything in between, South Africans are telling stories, sharing their culture, perspective, and their knowledge, capturing the essence of communities.  

3. Young

While podcasting is already into its second decade, many South Africans are only now discovering the medium. As they find their new favorites, it is important for them to hear themselves and not only international perspectives. 

Jennay: I love your choice of words! They’re really reflective of the vibrancy and life of the South African podcasting scene! 

What are some of the most unique trends or characteristics you’ve seen in the South African podcasting scene compared to other countries?

Sean: While there is no data to back this up, I have noticed that many SA podcast creators are well into their 30s. It’s no surprise then that most podcast listeners are also over the age of 30.  

With more ways than ever to capture and share audio, the space is cost-effective for parents and business owners to make and share content with peers. Having said that, we are also noticing that many creators are opting for video podcasts and like to use YouTube as a hosting platform. I think this is because it is widely known as a space for consuming content. 

Jennay: And then taking a more global perspective on the South African podcasting space, why should advertisers and investors look to South African podcasts when it comes to ad spots, sponsorship, and the like?

Sean: Like I said before, the space is exploding! And with diverse voices comes a wide array of choices and niche communities to tap into. 

With an upswing in content creation and listenership, the time to invest in South African podcasters is now. 

Larger audiences are currently finding particular genres (true crime, comedy, entrepreneurship) where quality meets storytelling, whereas smaller shows are developing a strong fan base. 

Jennay: That’s some sound advice! (Pun obviously intended!) And we’re so excited to hear how podcasting is expanding in South Africa. Can you speak to the production quality of South African-based podcasts? 

Sean: I served as a judge for the APVA Awards 2023* and was really encouraged by the quality of storytelling and level of production. When individual producers are emulating the quality of production teams, I think it indicates very exciting things for the future of local podcasting. 

*The APVA is Africa’s premier audio awards and event, recognizing outstanding talent across Africa

Jennay: We wholeheartedly agree! Now, who are some of your role models or influential figures within the South African podcasting community?

Sean: I find Nicole Engelbrecht’s story and the way in which she has carved out a creative career to be very inspiring. 

(Nicole Engelbrecht is the creator and host of the popular True Crime South Africa and I Lived Through This podcasts. True Crime South Africa consistently charts as South Africa’s most popular true-crime podcast even among international offerings, and in 2021, Business Insider ranked the podcast as the 5th most listened to podcast overall in the country.)

I also consider Paulo Dias, Lindsay Johnson, and Spike Balletine to be audio wizards! 

Jennay: And finally, looking ahead, what do you envision for the future of podcasting in South Africa, and what opportunities do you anticipate for those looking to join this space?

Sean: I see the term ‘podcasting’ becoming a catch-all for digital storytelling. I myself am working on developing strong creator communities and developing storytelling skills as I think there is a gap in this space. 

I also think audio created specifically for children will increase exponentially over the next few months. 

Jennay: We couldn’t agree more! Particularly in reference to the need for strong creator communities. That’s something we’re really passionate about at We Edit Podcasts. And we’re also seeing that uptake in audio for children, which we love to see…and hear!

Thank you so much, Sean, for joining us In The Spotlight today! How can readers connect with you?

Sean: Thank you for the opportunity to share my thoughts. If any podcasters would like to attend or support the next This Is How We Podcast event, they can contact me via my website www.seanloots.com.

Who Will Be in the Spotlight Next?

Are you a podcaster? Or do you work in the podcasting space? Do you want the chance to be In The Spotlight? I’d love to connect with you! Reach out to me at jennay@weeditpodcasts.com.

Who knows! You could be In The Spotlight next!

Just as we tidy up our physical spaces, it’s a really great idea to declutter and organize our digital spaces, too, from time to time. Many of us are living more and more of our lives in a digital world. And our digital lives can quickly become cluttered with outdated files, unused apps, and just general digital clutter. 

But there’s an easy fix! A digital spring clean! So, let’s dive into why and how to do a digital spring clean, and why NOW is the perfect time to do it.

BONUS!

Keep reading! We’ve included a bonus fun freebie to help you get that ball rolling on your digital spring clean! You don’t want to miss it!

Why Should You Do a Digital Spring Clean?

As we mentioned above, our digital spaces need the occasional spring clean, just as our physical spaces do. We spend so much time on our PCs, smartphones, and tablets – whether it’s work-related, or in our personal lives. And if we’re not meticulous in our day-to-day operations (a clue, I certainly am not! As much as I try or aspire to be!) our galleries, inboxes, desktops, and files become cluttered and disorganized. And I don’t know about you, but this is super frustrating at times, and can even go as far as to put me in a bad mood!

But that’s not the only reason why a digital spring clean is in order from time to time! 

1. Boost Productivity

A cluttered digital space can be overwhelming and distracting. And it can also mean you take way to long to find what you’re looking for! By decluttering your digital life, you’ll create a more focused and productive environment.

2. Streamline Workflow

Along with boosting your productivity, a decluttered and organized digital workspace makes it easier to find what you need when you need it. This is an underrated way to streamline your workflow and save you time.

Which is what we’re all after, right?

3. Free Up Storage Space

Digital clutter can also take up valuable storage space on all our devices. So periodically clearing out your old files, galleries, and apps can free up that much-needed space. And, of course, this can then also improve device performance. Another win!

4. Enhance Security

Doing a digital cleanup is also a great time to look at your security protocols and enhance your overall digital security. So take the time to back up and update your passwords and other cyber-security protocols.

So that’s the “why”, now let’s talk about the “how”! 

(And don’t forget that free checklist!)

How To Do a Digital Spring Clean

1. Cleanup 

Begin your digital spring clean with a general cleanup. You can start by organizing your files and Folders. Sort through your documents, photos, files, and your downloads folder, and organize these into logical folders. You can also use this time to delete duplicate files, archive old folders and files, or just delete anything you no longer need.

Next, turn your attention to your desktop! Clean up and re-organize your desktop files. This can help speed up your device, but it also can help streamline your process and minimize your frustration.

2. Declutter

Next, turn your attention to your inboxes and mailing lists. These also need a little digital spring clean from time to time. Start by creating folders or labels to organize emails into categories. And then start filing your emails or subscriptions under these.

You should also take some time to unsubscribe from unnecessary email lists and newsletters. Sometimes we sign up to these, thinking they’ll add value. But if you haven’t opened a single email from a certain sender in months, it’s probably best to declutter those inboxes and unsubscribe!

And don’t forget to clean out your trash and spam folders!

You can also extend your digital spring clean to your social media accounts. Unfollow social media accounts that no longer add value, that are no longer active, or those you’re simply no longer interested in seeing content from.

This frees you up to see all that stuff you’re actually interested in!

3. Back-Up

The next step in your digital spring clean is to back up. This is something we often neglect…and then seriously regret when things go wrong! But this is an easy fix if you add ‘backing up’ into your digital spring clean routine.

Systematically go through your devices and ensure that your important files and data are backed up securely. You can back up your files either to cloud storage or to external drives.

You could also consider going through your passwords and updating these, as well as any other security protocols. 

Finally, it’s always a good idea to periodically run security scans on the relevant devices to check for malware or viruses.

4. Update

Now, it’s time to update! Here, you can start by auditing your social accounts. And then update your banners, bios, relevant links, your contact info, or anything else that may have changed or needs something added.

Now is also a great time to do those software and app updates that have been accumulating!

5. Refresh

Finally, it’s time for a refresh. It’s always a great idea to spruce up and refresh your elements from time to time. Not only to help keep your audience and followers engaged but as they say, a change is often as good as a rest. And so a refresh can just give you some added inspiration and motivation.

You can use this time to refresh your marketing strategies, take new headshots for your profiles, or revamp your banners or other assets.

If you have a podcast, a digital spring clean could be the perfect time to podcast artwork, as well as some of your other episode elements. You could record a new intro, and outro, add new ads, or update your CTAs.

Bonus!

6. Detox

As part of your digital spring clean, it’s a great time to think about instituting a digital detox plan. We all know that there are great benefits to spending dedicated time away from our screens. But knowing and doing are two vastly different things!

A digital detox won’t happen unless you make a plan for it! So make it a goal to set boundaries for screen time and prioritize activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul.

Free Digital Spring Clean Checklist

As promised! We’ve created a fun freebie just for you! To help you kickstart your digital spring cleaning journey, we’ve prepared a comprehensive checklist that you can download for free. This checklist will make it easy 

[Download your free Digital Spring Clean Checklist here!]

Conclusion on the Digital Spring Clean

By following these tips, you’ll not only declutter and organize your digital life but also create a more secure, productive, and streamlined digital life. Not to mention, a whole lot less frustration! And clean and tidy files just look so good! So, embrace a fresh start, whether you’re officially entering Spring or not, use our free checklist, and start that digital spring clean today!

Related read: The Best Self-Improvement Podcasts 

Everything starts with an introduction. And when it comes to creating a successful podcast, a well-crafted podcast introduction sets the tone, engages the audience, and prepares them for the journey ahead. And The Diary of a CEO just does this so well.

And we’re going to dive into all of this in this first post of the series.

Understanding the Power of Podcast Intros

But before we dissect why the intros of The Diary of a CEO are some of the best (if not the best) in the biz, let’s unpack the significance of podcast introductions, and why they’re such a key part of the podcast episode.

Although, often not given the attention and thought they need or deserve.

First up, the podcast intro serves as the gateway to the episode. It’s how you can capture your listeners’ attention right from the very beginning of your episode. And it’s also how you will entice those tuning in for the first time to stay. In other words, a well-crafted podcast intro not only introduces the host and show overall to the listeners and helps build the anticipation for what’s to follow, but it also helps establish that all-important connection with your audience.

So, podcast intros are pretty important. But the key is getting them right. And as we’ve said, there’s no podcast that does it quite as well as The Diary of a CEO.

These intros are masterfully crafted to captivate listeners from the get-go. Obviously, Steven Bartlett is an expert interviewer. And this is the reason why we keep returning to his podcast episode after episode.

But it’s his intros that really helped propel the popularity of his podcast.

So let’s break down why his intros are so effective, so you can create amazing podcast intros for your show, too.

A Case Study on the Podcast Intro Featuring The Diary of a CEO by Steven Bartlett.

1. Intrigue and Anticipation

The number one tactic used in the intros of each episode of DOAC is intrigue and anticipation. 

Just take a listen to the beginning of this episode featuring best-selling author Robert Greene. (You’re going to want to listen to the whole episode right here, right now. And that’s totally cool – just come back and finish the post afterward, okay? So that the next time someone hears YOUR podcast intro, it has the exact same effect!)

I picked this episode because it was the latest at the time of writing this post, but really, I could have picked any episode – all the principles we’re going to be talking about today feature in every one of these podcast intros.

But first and foremost, Steven Bartlett’s podcast intros grab our attention through the use of intrigue and the building of anticipation. The clips that are picked for the intro feature some of the best takeaways, insights, or shocking moments from the interview. But we only get a partial view of these. And this is so key for getting us hooked!

What will I be able to detect?

Just what is the common sign of a frenemy?

I don’t know about you, but now I’m invested and I want to know!

And that, my friends, is the hallmark of a great podcast intro.

But that’s not the only reason why DOAC absolutely nails the podcast intro.

Now let’s move on to the next element of great podcast intros.

2. Audience Knowledge

Pure and simple, Steven Bartlett knows what his audience wants. Of course, he picks incredible guests who are experts in their vast array of fields. Some are controversial. Some are risky. 

And as his audience, we want to hear it all.

But more than booking great guests, DOAC showcases their audience knowledge by the way they set up their intros. They know the best insights, the key takeaways, or perhaps the most shocking or jaw-dropping moments from the interviews, they know these are the moments we’re going to want to know more about. And so they expertly weave snippets of these into the podcast intro.

If we’ve said it once we’ve said it (probably) 1,000 times – taking the time to really know your audience will always, always, be worth it on your journey to long-term podcast success.

And when it comes to crafting stand-out podcast intros, this proves true once again.

3. Compelling Storytelling

The intros of The Diary of a CEO understand the power of compelling storytelling. At first listen, it may seem that Steven Bartlett’s intros are just a collection of random outtakes. But really, they’re carefully chosen and carefully cut to create a compelling narrative.

The intros are always engaging – whether they leave cliffhangers or only give you half of the full picture. But they’re never jumbled. There’s always a clear narrative that arcs the intro. 

And by framing the episode within a narrative arc, he hooks us as the audience and keeps us invested in the journey ahead.

This brings us to the next element every podcast intro of DOAC uses…

4. Clear Narrative

Something else that DOAC does exceptionally well in their intros is creating a clear narrative. Even though he’s just sharing snippets or hot takes in the intro, there’s a clear arc of where the episode is going. 

Why is this so effective in a podcast intro?

Because it paints a great overview of the episode and it sets our expectations sky-high. 

Through the use of some of the most intriguing snippets, takeaways, or some out-of-context insights from throughout the episode, we get a pretty good idea of where the episode is going…and we also we want to go along for the ride!

5. Emotional Impact

Emotions play a pivotal role in Steven Bartlett’s podcast intros. Whether it’s eliciting connection to the topic, creating intrigue, or even going in with the shock factor, his intros are consistently eliciting some kind of emotional response from us as the listeners. 

And utilizing emotional responses in an intro is incredibly effective because it heightens your level of investment. Whether the emotions the intro invoked were good, bad, or a weird mix of the two, you’re now invested in the process of unpacking these emotions, ie, listening to the episode. 

6. Concise and Punchy

Despite hinting at some seriously big topics or thoughts during its intros, another reason why the podcast intros of DOAC are so effective is because they’re also concise and super punchy. If you take a listen to any of the intros on Steven Bartlett’s podcast, you’ll notice there’s one massive statement after the other in pretty quick succession!

And that’s an amazingly effective tactic for grabbing our attention! Just while you’re processing that first major bomb, you’re hit with another.

And another.

And possibly, another!

And all this does is get you primed and ready to listen to the whole episode. Because now you need the context, the advice, and the amazing insight that’s going to accompany those punchy statements.

Pulling some of your key stand-out moments from an episode, or using parts of those hot takes your guest dished up, and stacking them up back-to-back is another way to amp up your podcast intro and keep your listeners hooked on your show! 

7. Visual Attention Grab

Last but not least, there’s a visual element to the success of The Diary of a CEO’s intro. Besides creating an effective audio hook, take a look at how DOAC effectively uses visual elements to grab the attention of us as viewers.

I don’t know about you, but I’m tempted to stop writing RIGHT NOW and check out any and all of those episodes shown above! They’re super attention-grabbing, right? Wouldn’t it be amazing if this was your podcast we were talking about? Well, follow Steven Bartlett’s example and incorporate some attention-grabbing visuals, and it could be!

Now, you may not have a video podcast, but you can still use this element to your podcast’s advantage. As we always say, your podcast is a brand, and you have to treat it as such when it comes to marketing and promoting your podcast.

So take a page out of the DOAC’s playbook and create visuals that grab the attention of viewers on whatever platforms you’re using to promote your podcast. Create images, audiograms, or videograms, use a variety of the tactics we’ve mentioned above, and your visual elements will stop the scroll, get more eyes on your content, and more ears on your podcast!

Related read: The Most Effective Ways to Promote a Podcast

Conclusion on the Podcast Intro

Steven Bartlett’s “Diary of a CEO” really nails the podcast intro. IMHO, there are very few podcasts that do it better. 

But by using DOAC as a case study, any podcaster can learn the effective techniques for crafting intros that captivate audiences and set the stage for a compelling listening experience.

Bottom line? Podcast intros are a vital part of your podcast episode. And they could be the key to expanding your reach and achieving podcast success. 

So put the time into studying those doing the podcast intro well, and use this to craft stand-out intros for your own show!