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Podcast

Podcast Launch Case Study – PTC 344

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When you go through a podcast launch, there are pitfalls to avoid. Creating a strategy for your show early is a critical piece to ensure your podcast helps attract your ideal clients and drives your business.

On this episode, I want to take you through a launch case study to help you discover a few things you might tighten up with your show.

PODCAST LAUNCH

If you do not have a podcast yet, you could launch in a weekend. I am holding a 3-day workshop that will get your podcast launched in a weekend.

During this workshop, you will discover how to build a solid podcast that will attract your ideal listeners. You won’t just learn how to record, edit and publish your podcast. I will take your hand and walk you through it during this workshop.

You will learn how to properly conduct interviews that will benefit you. We will create your marketing strategy to grow your audience. By the end of the weekend, you will refine your personality to create engaging entertainment that will attract your ideal clients.

If you would like to launch your podcast in 3 days, enroll at www.PodcastTalentCoach.com/start.

This 3-day workshop happens Friday through Sunday, July 16th through the 18th. You will publish your podcast by the end of the workshop.

STRATEGY

Your podcast can be a powerful tool when you are trying to attract your ideal clients. You need to decide how your podcast fits into your plan.

I like to start with the end in mind.

Let’s say you are a coach looking to attract clients. How might your podcast bring those potential clients into the top of your funnel.

Well, you need to decide what your funnel looks like before you can answer that questions.

How do you enroll clients? You could use a webinar. Strategy or discovery calls is an option. Clients could discover you by seeing you on a summit or stage. They might hear you on another podcast.

Once those potential clients discover you, where do they go for more information? This is where you send them to your lead magnet or directly to your podcast.

I like sending people to a lead magnet first. Let’s capture their information so we can invite them to listen to the podcast.

If you invite them to your podcast while giving an interview on another show, you get one opportunity to invite. If you invite them to grab your lead magnet, you can then use your e-mail to invite them to listen many times.

Once they begin listening to your podcast, they begin to know what you are all about. They can decide if they like how you teach and what you have to offer. Your podcast is all about building report with your listeners.

On your show, you can offer listeners more help and opportunities to get what you have to offer. When the time is right for them, they can sign up to work with you as a coach and become a client.

This is the sort of process you need to develop if you want to use your podcast to grow your business. Start with the end in mind and determine how your podcast fits into that strategy.

PODCAST LAUNCH CASE STUDY

Sadie came to me to launch her podcast “Meathead Test Kitchen” with her co-host Sausha. They wanted to create a show around their healthy eating and workout products.

Demonstrating your products, courses and books is a great way to make money with your podcast. This is like a weekly webinar, but your prospects actually subscribe to it.

How great is that? Your listeners ask for it every week! Give them a sample of your stuff. Then, tell them where to buy it.

This is like a long infomercial for your stuff without the slimy feel. You are offering help and showing your ideal clients how to get more.

Do you have a book or course you could demonstrate on your show? Your own little home shopping network … and your ideal clients are subscribing.

This is what Sadie and Sausha do on the Meathead Test Kitchen podcast. Sadie followed my Podcast Fast Blueprint to launch her show in 30 days. Now, they demonstrate products and direct people to their website to buy them. Some of these products are their own products. Some are affiliate products.

On this episode, we talk to Sadie about her launch experience, how she is growing her show and using it to build her business. Enjoy.

PODCAST LAUNCH WORKSHOP

If you do not have a podcast yet, you could launch in a weekend. Join us for a 3-day workshop that will get your podcast launched in a weekend.

During this workshop, you will discover how to build a solid podcast that will attract your ideal listeners. You won’t just learn how to record, edit and publish your podcast. I will take your hand and walk you through it during this workshop.

You will learn how to properly conduct interviews that will benefit you. We will create your marketing strategy to grow your audience. By the end of the weekend, you will refine your personality to create engaging entertainment that will attract your ideal clients.

If you would like to launch your podcast in 3 days, enroll at www.PodcastTalentCoach.com/start.

This 3-day workshop happens Friday through Sunday, July 16th through the 18th. You will publish your podcast by the end of the workshop.

If you don’t have a mentor who can take your hand and walk you every step of the way, go to www.PodcastTalentCoach.com/start. Join us for the 3-day workshop and get your podcast launched in a weekend.

Podcast

6 Steps To Start A Podcast – PTC 338

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If you want to start a podcast, don’t make it harder than it needs to be. Follow these 6 steps and you can launch a podcast in 30 days.

The first thing you need to remember is patients.

FISH

Download numbers are is like a fishing stories. The fish in the story is always bigger than the actual fish.

Many podcasters twist the numbers and inflate their stats to make their downloads look better.

A podcaster might say, “I am getting 3,000 downloads.” That could be true.

It could also be true that our podcaster is doing a daily show that gets 100 downloads with each episode. When added together, the show had 3,000 downloads total last month.

The statistic is true, yet a bit misleading.

Here is the truth. The median number of downloads for an episode is 121.

Yes, not 1,210. One hundred twenty one.

First, a math refresher before the details. To calculate the median, you stack up all of the numbers smallest to largest. The one right in the middle is the median number.

This means 50% are higher and 50% are lower than the median number. It is the middle.

“The Feed” is the official podcast of podcast audio host Libsyn. Each month on the show, VP of Podcast Relations for Libsyn Rob Walch presents the actual numbers.

This data is based on active shows hosted on Libsyn released in the month of March 2021. Downloads are measured to the end of April 2021.

For the month of March 2021, according to Rob, the median number of downloads for an episode of an active podcast on Libsyn is 121 downloads.

This means if your podcast is getting 121 downloads, you are doing better than half of actively published podcasts on Libsyn.

For perspective, only 6.2% of the active shows are getting over 5,000 downloads during that period.

Getting 1,000 per episode would put you in the top 20%.

2,800 downloads would make you better than 90% of the active podcasts.

Only 5% of active shows get more than 6,600 downloads per episode.

Next time you compare yourself to another show, keep these numbers in mind.

6 STEPS TO START A PODCAST

There are 6 steps to launch your podcast. Those are purpose, program, platform, produce, promote, and profit.

Let’s take each of these one by one.

PURPOSE

Define your why. Without a strong why, it will be difficult to find the motivation to produce every week.

PROGRAM

Define your topic. Make sure it is something you can talk about for hours on end.

PLATFORM

What will be the structure of your podcast? You can choose interview, solo show, multiple hosts, magazine style or a variety of these. Then, develop a show clock.

PRODUCE

Record your show. Use Audacity (free) or Hindenburg (paid). Record your interviews with Zoom. Edit the audio, and export it as an .mp3. Post it on your audio host and website for your potential clients to enjoy.

PROMOTE

Don’t believe if you build it they will come. It doesn’t happen that way. Tell everyone about it. Find ways to get in front of new listeners.

PROFIT

Build a system to monetize your podcast. Use your podcast to build authority and relationships. Send your listeners to your e-mail list and nurture the relationship even further. Be sure you have something to sell.

ACCOUNTABILITY

The other important piece you need is an accountability partner. You’ve been wanting to start a podcast, but haven’t pulled the trigger.

Anne joined me in my Podcast Fast Blueprint program. She said she wanted to start a podcast for a long time. She just never pulled the trigger.

After going through the program and launching her show in 30 days, she finally accomplished her goal.

She said the program was so helpful. Anne just needed someone pushing her to get it across the line.

That is the power of accountability. Sometimes we have a desire to do something. We just need that accountability partner to help push us to get it done.

That’s what Podcast Fast Blueprint can do for you. Are you ready to launch your show? Would you like to see if Podcast Fast Blueprint makes sense for you?

If you don’t have a mentor who can take your hand and walk you every step of the way, go to www.PodcastTalentCoach.com/apply, click the button and apply to have a chat with me. We will develop your plan and see how I can help and support you to achieve your podcast goals.

Podcast

What You Need To Launch A Podcast – PTC 329

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Launching a podcast doesn’t need to be difficult. Many gurus make you think it takes a lot of technical knowledge and magic powder. Today, I am going to show you how easy it can be to launch your podcast.

Even if you have a podcast, you’ll find some tips here today that will make it even easier for you to succeed.

CHALLENGES

Let’s start with the challenges. There are 3 big challenges that coaches face as they try to build their podcast and audience.

– The first is making it more complicated than it needs to be.

– They don’t have a roadmap

– They don’t know where to start

Let’s take these one at a time.

KEEP IT SIMPLE

Don’t make it complicated. You don’t need to be a tech guru to create a podcast.

Start by recording your episode in audio software. Then, edit it. Editing a podcast is like editing a word document. Highlight and delete. If you need help here, go to www.PodcastTalentCoach.com/editing.

Next, export the file as an .mp3. This is just like saving a document as a .pdf. Click “file” and “export”. Some audio software has an export button that makes it really easy.

You then upload your file to your audio host, such as Libsyn. This is just like uploading a photo to Facebook. Your audio host stores your audio. You can get a free month by using the code PTC at www.Libsyn.com.

Embed the audio player and episode on your website. Just copy and paste the code.

Finally, be sure your show is linked to Apple Podcasts and the others. This involves coping the address from your audio host and pasting it on the platform. You only need to do this once.

That’s it. You have a podcast.

Now, producing your podcast is just one of the 6 parts. Most gurus will teach you maybe 2 parts. You need all 6 for a successful podcast. I’ll show you those in a bit.

SPENDING MONEY

You also don’t need to spend a ton of money to podcast.

The #1 mistake most people make when they are launching is spending way too much on equipment and making it more complicated than is necessary. You don’t need a professional studio.

Start with a few inexpensive pieces of gear. You probably already have a computer available.

You need a decent USB microphone that you can plug right into your computer. That will cost you about $75.

You need some headphones. You probably already have a pair of earbuds laying around your home.

Get some editing software. You can get Audacity for free on the internet or use Garage Band on your Mac. I really like Hindenburg Journalist. That will cost you about $100.

If you are going to do interviews, you can record those using free resources like Zoom, Skype or something similar.

Can you spend more? Sure, but why? Don’t complicate it with a mixer and bunch of cables. Don’t go spend $300 on a mic. Just get started.

ROADMAP

Next, many podcasters don’t have a roadmap for success.

One secret most gurus don’t tell you is that getting listeners isn’t enough. You need to develop a plan to keep them listening.

Many podcast gurus teach you how to create a podcast. Record your interview. Convert it to an .mp3. Upload it to your host. You have a podcast. Now what?

Some may even teach you how to get a few listeners. But, that is where most people teaching podcast stop.

The problem is … if you keep putting water in a bucket with holes in the bottom, it becomes very difficult to increase the amount of water in the bucket.

The same is true with your podcast. If you keep adding listeners, but they don’t stick around, your audience and authority won’t grow.

If you want to use a podcast to grow your business and authority, you need to build it on a solid foundation and strategy.

STRATEGY

Earlier I told you there were 6 steps to a successful podcast. 

My Podcast Fast Blueprint teaches you all 6 steps. Those steps are Purpose, Program, Platform, Produce, Promote and Profit.

Producing your show is only one piece.

Your purpose is your why. Without a solid why, you won’t stick with it. Creating a podcast every week will soon seem like a chore.

Find your inspiration with a strong why.

Your program is your niche. This is what you will talk about. It better be something you love and can talk about for hours. This makes creating content so much easier.

Your platform is the format of your show. Will your show be solo, interview, magazine, documentary, two-person or some other format?

We’ve talked about producing. Record, edit, export, post.

Promote is all about attracting your listeners. This is how you bring fans to your show and keep them listening.

Finally, profit from your efforts. Money doesn’t fall from the sky. You need to build an audience and have a strategy.

Six steps. It doesn’t need to be any harder than that.

WHERE TO START

The third challenge many would-be podcasters face is that they don’t know where to start. Let me show you.

What would it mean to your business if you had an easy way to connect to the big fish that were your ideal clients? You could serve them and help them by inviting them on your show and nurture the relationship. Another powerful way to attract your ideal clients.

Let’s talk about using a podcast to drive your business. You have been trying to find unique ways to reach your potential clients. Over the last few minutes we’ve been together, I hope you have written down a few ideas how you might incorporate a podcast into your marketing plan.

How great would it be to be able to talk directly to your ideal client every week and have them request it? They actually subscribe to hear you demonstrate your authority in the space.

You have the steps that can help you. By now, you know how I communicate. You know how I teach. Let’s figure out what you are doing right and find ways to do more of that.

Here’s what I know. If you want another level of success in your business, you’re gonna need help. There’s no way to get different results by doing the same thing. There’s no way you’re gonna get to another level on your own. You need help, and I’d like to be that help.

YOUR OPPORTUNITY

That’s why I am so excited to offer you this opportunity to get into my Podcast Fast Blueprint launch program. This will help you get your podcast launched in 30 days or less.

Launching a podcast is much easier than you think if you know the roadmap. It takes a lot less time than you can imagine. And, it is much more effective than other content methods at attracting and creating powerful relationships with your ideal clients. 

So, let me offer you some help. What would it mean if you were able to get in front of your ideal clients each and every week? Not only that, but your ideal clients actually subscribe and ask to hear from you every week?

This is like a weekly webinar with a built-in audience. What would that do to your coaching business? That is the power of a podcast.

How quickly could you grow your influence and authority in your niche if you were talking to and teaching your potential clients each and every week? That is the power of a podcast.

How would you like me to help you launch a podcast of your own in 30 days? I will walk you through the process step-by-step.

I have a coaching program where I will walk your through the entire process. You will have your podcast launched in 30 days if you do the work consistently. No guessing. I will lay it out for you. You simply need to take the action.

It is called the Podcast Fast Blueprint. And classes are getting ready to start. I’d love to have you join us.

WHAT YOU GET

The coaching includes six weekly group calls with me to teach you the process, to ensure you are taking the right steps and to get all of your questions answered.

This program will give you access to the Podcast Fast Blueprint online portal that will include the recorded calls and plenty of resources that will show you the steps and walk you through the podcast launch checklist. We will record video of the calls and put them inside of the member area, so you can access them again when you need them.

You will also be able to download audio recording of the calls, so you can take them with you and listen on your time. This is just like a private podcast of the teachings. Listen to them whenever you’d like at your convenience.

On top of the 6 weekly calls, you will get the step-by-step Podcast Fast Blueprint to build a successful podcast that not only demonstrates your authority, but attracts clients as well. This process is laid out in the Podcast Talent Coach worksheets that took me 30 years in radio and podcasting to learn, develop and perfect.

This formula is inside of the Podcast Fast Blueprint modules that walk you through creating your content and connecting to your ideal clients. You will learn all of the things necessary to launch in 30 days and start attracting clients.

You will also get lifetime access to our closed group where you can share ideas, get additional support and ask any other questions you might have. Most importantly, you get a system you can follow to launch in 30 days.

In order to ensure you get the attention you need and deserve, I will also give you a personal one-on-one call at the end of the program to develop your audience growth plan after you have launched.

THE VALUE

Total value of this program is thousands and thousand of dollars. But your tuition isn’t nearly that.

People usually pay $1,500 for just the process itself without the recordings, support group, and all of the other components. You won’t pay that either.

You can get full details at www.PodcastTalentCoach.com/start. I’m not giving the price here, because it could change at any time. This podcast will be around for years. You can see the current structure, bonuses, and price and find the enrollment link at www.PodcastTalentCoach.com/Start.

If you don’t have a mentor who can take your hand and walk you through the entire process to launching your podcast in 30 days or less, you owe it to yourself to check this out. Stop suffering through the trial and error. Stop beating yourself up with “someday”. Make that “someday” today.

Of course there is a guarantee. In fact, there are two guarantee. First, if you take action and do the work, and you are not launched in 30 days, I will coach you for free until you have your podcast launched.

And, I’ll give you a 30-day money back guarantee. If you get into it and within the first 30 days you realize this isn’t for you, I’ll give you your money back with no questions. What do you have to lose?

WHAT WOULD IT MEAN?

Just think, what would it mean to your business if you could get in front of your clients each and every week? Not only that, but your ideal clients actually subscribe and ask to hear from you every week? This is like a weekly webinar with subscribers and a built-in audience.

What would that do to your influence and authority? Podcasting could double in the next 5 years. 90 million people in the U.S. alone have listened to a podcast in the past month, and it is only getting bigger. Now is the time to start.

Come check out the program and get enrolled. Make today your day. Visit www.PodcastTalentCoach.com/Start.

When you join today, you will get instant access to the entire content in the portal. Plus, you will get all of the templates and documents you need to launch your podcast.

THE MODULES

You can start studying today. You can begin in module one by defining your show focus and developing your ideal client.

Each step has homework that you will submit in the private group for feedback.

As we go through this journey, you will begin creating your podcast step-by-step one step at a time. Module 2 will show you how to structure you show, prepare for each episode and how to interview.

Then, module 3 will teach you improve your show and process.

Module 4 shows you how to use your content to attract your clients and so on. You will have your podcast launched in 30 days.

We will begin the live calls soon. So, right now when you take action and join the program, you can get started and be on the path to launch your show in 30 days.

You’ve been saying, “One day I’ll launch my podcast.” One day is just a pipe dream unless you set a deadline and take action.

Here is your chance to launch your show in 30 days. Join the program to today and make today your “one day”.

Make a big impact in your business and in your life. Begin growing your authority and demonstrating your expertise.

Get enrolled at www.PodcastTalentCoach.com/Start.

I am excited to work with you. Be sure to take advantage of the exclusive offer today and check out the bonuses.

Let’s get you launched in the next 30 days. I can’t wait to help you launch. Get the details at www.PodcastTalentCoach.com/start.

I’ll see you in the program.

Do you need help with your podcast? E-mail me any time at Coach@PodcastTalentCoach.com. Let’s see what we can do.

Let’s turn your information into engaging entertainment.

Podcast

Don’t Wait For Perfect – PTC311

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Let’s look back over the past 12 months. What are you working on that isn’t quite yet launched? Don’t wait for perfect. Ship it.

Some of my greatest accomplishments happened when I was pushed along before I felt I was 100% ready. I wasn’t perfect, but I started.

TRY IT

It was August 1994. I was working at the big rock radio station in my hometown. The gig was only overnights. But, it was full-time and in the big city.

That night, we were having our annual birthday bash for the station. This was a big concert to celebrate the 16th anniversary of the station.

This particular concert featured REO Speedwagon, Starship and Cheap Trick. Three bands that were a bit past their prime, but still big staples on album rock radio.

At this point, I had been in radio for about 6 years. I have been to plenty of concerts. However, this was our show. And it was at the 8,000-seat arena in town.

Starship had just got off the stage. REO was the only band left to play. That’s when the program director said, “Let’s go. We’re going to welcome the crowd and introduce the band.”

Now, I have never had the desire to be on stage. I’ve never wanted to be a public speaker. In fact, speaking in front of a crowd made me incredibly nervous like it does with most people.

My boss grabs the entire on-air staff, about 12 of us, and we head on stage. The crowd sees us and goes crazy.

The morning show takes the mic and says hi. Another roar from the crowd. They thank the rockers for coming out on that particular night to help us celebrate. Another cheer.

THE BIG CHEER

That’s when it happened.

The morning guys begin to introduce the entire staff. One by one, they go down the line pointing out the DJ and getting a cheer from the crowd.

My show is on the radio right before them. They have kind of taken me under their wing.

As they get to me, they give me a little longer intro with some brotherly kind of love and the crowd gives me a cheer a bigger than I expected.

That felt good. My butterflies went away. My chest puffed up just a bit.

That’s when I realized what I had been missing. There is a point where my anxiousness turned into exhilaration.

Where I had once feared speaking to a crowd, I learned that it might just be something I would come to love.

Sure, the butterflies are still there before I step out. But, it is more like the butterflies you experience right before you get to the top of the rollercoaster hill. You know what is on the other side, but it’s still a little scary.

Suddenly you’re in the middle of it absorbing it all. Taking it all in. You just need to get over the top of the hill.

This year, give something a try that you’ve been avoiding due to fear. You won’t know you love it until you try.

So few people are willing to push past the top of the hill. You can discover a whole new world if you just push yourself to try something new.

JUMP

Next, jump.

It was April 2013. I was just launching Podcast Talent Coach. The show was still a blog and not yet a podcast.

I was writing for New Media Expo. They were using my posts on their website as part of their podcasting section.

The whole business was still coming together. The gurus all made it sound so easy. Create all of these multiple streams of income and you’d be rich before you knew it.

Unfortunately, I didn’t know much about the tech. I was a radio guy. I knew content. Figuring out an RSS feed and a funnel and a shopping cart was all a little beyond my reach.

My blog posts contained my e-mail address and an offer for coaching. I didn’t yet know what that coaching would look like. I just knew I could help people shape their content and create stronger shows.

Then one day I received an e-mail.

Ken reached out and told me his wife found my blog. Ken was on the radio and needed help improving his show.

He and I agreed to jump on a Skype call and devise a plan. We chatted for about 90 minutes. At the end, we had a plan to help him reach his goals.

The next day, I e-mailed Ken an agreement recapping what I would provide and what he would pay. He sent me that first payment as a money order. We started coaching.

Was it perfect? Was the funnel optimized? Heck no. I didn’t even know what a funnel was at this point.

We just made an agreement, he paid me and we got started.

Don’t wait until it’s perfect. Jump. Perfect is a pipe dream.

THE SHARKS

Finally, get started.

Last weekend, I had the pleasure of attending Collaborate. It was an amazing event where I made a ton of great connections.

Two weeks before Collaborate, the organizers were recruiting people to participate in Shark Attack.

During this part of the event, five people will make their pitch to a group of high level, online marketers with the hopes of getting those marketers to promote them to their list.

Shark Attack is an opportunity to really get to the next level and play big time.

Now, I was nowhere ready to apply for Shark Attack. My funnel wasn’t perfect. The Audience Explosion Blueprint didn’t have mounds of data to support the conversion numbers. I hadn’t done really big JV launches in the past.

Why would these big players ever want to promote me?

As I was talking with my coach, we discussed where I was and where I wanted to go. We chatted about the last webinar I did and how it converted.

She finally said, “Erik, you’re ready. Go for it.”

I said, “Are you sure?” Then I brought up all of the excuses. My funnel, my data, my history.

She assured me that all of that would be fine. It would never be perfect. I just needed to start.

At 11pm the night before the deadline, I prepared my pitch and shot the audition video. I hit the submit button and went to bed.

Two days later there was a prep call for the event. On this call, the organizers get everybody ready to network and connect. To get the event to run well, they explain everything you need to know to get the most out of the event.

During this call, the 5 participants for Shark Attack are announced.

THE WINNERS ARE …

When they got to the list of five participants, I heard my name called. I would be pitching to the sharks.

We had no idea who they would be. We only knew we would have two minutes to make our pitch and get the sharks interested in promoting our programs.

There was now less than four days to refine and perfect my pitch and figure out how to get these people to promote me. I would be pitching as hundreds of other online marketers watched. The sharks would then have 15 minutes to ask me questions and pick apart my idea.

When the day came for Shark Attack, the sharks turned out to be Jeanna Gabellini, Rob Goyette, Debbie Allen, Alex Mandossian, Michelle Schubnel, and Alex Moscow. All very big players in online marketing.

Names of the participants were drawn in random order. As the first few went, it was just as you would expect. Questions came quickly. Plans weren’t quite refined. Lots of inquiries about the numbers. It was rough.

MY TURN

Name after name was called. It quickly became obvious that I would be last. After the first four went through the process, it was my turn to make the pitch.

I wasn’t sure if waiting was more difficult or if going last actually benefitted my by seeing the others go first. The feedback they received helped me refine my pitch just a touch.

It was finally time. I made my two minute pitch and asked for the partnership. Immediately, Debbie Allen said, “I’m in.”

We were off to a good start. Then, Alex Mandossian chimed in. He told me he didn’t understand the promise I was making or what my clients would receive.

All of a sudden, the sharks were arguing amongst themselves. Michelle thought it was perfectly clear. Jeanna wasn’t quite convinced. Moscow really liked the idea. Rob doesn’t like podcasting, but thought his audience would be a fit.

It all came in a flurry. I answered questions as fast and as best as I could.

That fifteen minutes passed quickly. It was exhilarating. It was also a lot of pressure.

At the end of it all, four said they were in. The other two said they would be willing to have another conversation.

Wow! I went into this unsure of my ability and feeling unprepared. If it hadn’t been for my coach pushing me to try it anyway, I would have missed out. I wouldn’t have these incredible opportunities sitting in front of me ready to make 2021 an amazing year for me.

Sure, it’s scary. Sure, you don’t feel like you’re ready. It will always be scary. It will always feel like it could be better and more ready.

If you want to make big things happen in the next year, acknowledge the fear. Then, do it anyway. Take the first step.

THE NEXT STEP

Are you ready to make 2021 an incredible year? Now is the time to get started.

You won’t know you love it until you try.

Don’t wait until it’s perfect. Jump.

Acknowledge the fear. Then, do it anyway.

I have told you about my Audience Explosion Blueprint. You can get an incredible deal right now for Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

The two biggest shopping days of the year are coming. If you want to explode your audience over the next year, you can get in now with this deal.

Since it is available for a limited time, and since this podcast will be around for a very long time, I have posted the deal on the website. If the deal is still good, you will find it at www.PodcastTalentCoach.com/BlackFriday.

Rocky grew his audience by 100% by going through the program. If you want to play big in 2021, get in on this now. Even if you don’t have a podcast yet, this will make even more sense for you.

Check it out at www.PodcastTalentCoach.com/BlackFriday.

 

Whatever you do, make 2021 big. Get started. Use these three tips to reach your goals and live your dreams.

Let’s turn your information into engaging entertainment.

Podcast

Revisit – How To Start A Podcast – PTC294

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This week I am traveling. I got caught with only my laptop. Which got me thinking … what do you need to start a podcast? Follow these 6 easy steps and learn how to start a podcast.

WHY NOW?

I have been chatting with many coaches and online entrepreneurs over the past few months. So many of them mention that they are starting a podcast in a month or two.

Perfectionism is the one thing that holds so many people back from starting anything. Dan Miller of “48 Days To The Work You Love” often says, “If you wait for all of the stoplights to turn green before you go, you will never get started.”

Things will never be perfect. Start. Launch. Learn. Refine. Improve. Continue.

NOBODY STARTS AT THE TOP

That is the only way you will achieve big things. Very few people start at the top.

Over the next few weekends, my son is attending a few team tryouts. He is a 16-year-old ice hockey goaltender. He is trying out for teams comprised of 16- to 20-year-olds. I’m proud of the way he is showing up and competing.

We understand it is a long shot that he will make one of these teams. However, he is learning so much about what it takes to be the best at this level.

You can do the same. But, only if you start. Take action and start the journey.

If you want one of the best podcasts in your niche, get started.

If you want a successful online business or coaching practice, get started.

SOME FREE TRAINING

This weekend, I was listening to a training by my coach. He said, “If your first effort fails, you don’t want to fail in front of a crowd of thousands. Get started with what you have.”

When you start your podcast, be happy that the audience is small. This is the best arena for learning. Episode 50 will be much better than episode 1. But, only if you actually start and record episode 1.

If you haven’t launched your show yet, I am holding a free, online training on Saturday, August 1. It is called “How To Launch A Podcast In 30 Days To Attract Your Ideal Clients.” If you would like to attend from the comfort of your home, you can get the details at www.PodcastTalentCoach.com/launchtraining.

During this free training, you will discover:

1- The 3 Ps necessary for every successful podcast

2- How to use a podcast to attract your ideal clients

3- A step-by-step process to launch your show in 30 days

A year ago, I recorded an episode that teaches you the 6 steps to get your podcast up and running in 30 days. Stop waiting for perfection and start.

If I can record an episode in my car with a pair of earbuds, you can use whatever you have at home. Just get started.

Today, I want to revisit that episode. It was originally released last September. This will help you get started.

If you would like my help getting started, be sure to get registered for the free training at www.PodcastTalentCoach.com/launchtraining.

Enjoy the episode and thanks for being here.

– – –

START A PODCAST

It seems so overwhelming. Launching a podcast looks so technical and confusing. What do you need to start a podcast?

It really is much easier than it appears. You can truly have a show up and running in four weeks.

When I was launching my podcast, I had been in radio for a couple decades. I knew how to create a great show.

What I didn’t know was how to get it on the internet, on Apple Podcasts and out to the world. I knew how to create an .mp3, but how do I make that .mp3 an actual podcast?

I watched a ton of YouTube videos. It felt like the more I watched, the more confused I became. It seemed everyone had their opinions without a real “right” answer. I had almost too many options. Which were the best?

6 STEPS TO START A PODCAST

Here are six easy steps to follow to get your podcast up and running. Don’t overthink it. Done is much better than working for perfection.

1. Logo & graphics

Canva

Fiverr

99 Designs

2. Website

WordPress

Hosting

3. Microphone

AudioTechnica ATR2100

Samson Q2U

4. Recording software

Audacity

Hindenburg

5. ID3 tags

An ID3 tag is a data container within an MP3 audio file stored in a prescribed format. The information is used by software like audio players and podcast catchers. For songs, this data usually contains the artist name, song title, year and genre of the audio file. For podcasts, it contains show name, show title, host name, website, and artwork.

ID3 Editor at PA-Software.com

6. Hosting account

Libsyn

Blubrry

JUST START

Hook up your gear. Record your show. Add ID3 tags. Upload it to your podcast host. Post it on your website.

This just gets your podcast out to the world. However, it doesn’t ensure you have great content.

To connect with your audience, you need to define your listener, lay out your mission, develop a show clock and more. You can get my podcast launch checklist at http://podcasttalentcoach.com/podcastlaunch.

Create great content. Spend most of your time promoting your show.

You can find my podcast and other tools to help you create great content at www.PodcastTalentCoach.com.

Let’s turn your information into engaging entertainment.

Podcast

Start Now – PTC266

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What does success look like for you over the next 12 months? Have you broken your goals down to specific steps? Start to take steps toward reaching your goals.

Now, this episode isn’t all about setting goals. We are not going to talk about SMART goals and the five goal-setting steps. You know your goals need to be Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant and Time bound. It is also wise to write them down and create an action plan. You can find that information anywhere.

GOALS

What I want to talk about today are the specific actions you can start to take that will get you to your goals.

I was in a coaching session with my business coach the other day. We were talking about where I want the business to go. We were discussing my goals for the next year.

As we talked about my goals for 2020, I realized I don’t need as many coaching clients as I thought. As we worked out the numbers and the structure of the business and what I can offer, I really only need a few great clients to reach my goals.

I can continue to help as many podcasters as possible with my podcast and free worksheets. I can continue to offer my Dollars and Downloads course for those not yet ready for coaching. A few of the right clients will help me reach my goals for 2020.

At that point, my coach and I broke down the year in terms of the number of new clients I would need to find, how many products I would need to sell and what I would need to create to reach the goal.

Have you translated your financial goals into number of business transactions that would need to happen this year. You cannot possibly begin taking steps toward your financial goals without defining those steps.

My coach and I worked together to put the money on paper in terms of business action steps and clients.

KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

When I was getting my MBA, we learned a lot about the Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) that drive businesses. There are a few indicators that will help you determine exactly what will drive your business.

A KPI is defined as a quantifiable measure used to evaluate the success of an organization, employee, etc. in meeting objectives for performance.

They are the quantifiable, outcome-based statements you’ll use to measure if you’re on track to meet your goals or objectives.

KPIs are not the overall goal of earning a specific amount of money. They are the steps you can control to help you reach those goals.

For instance, I know that 2 out of every 3 people I help during a free podcast strategy call will turn into a client. They recognize the value of the help I provide and they are at a point in their journey where coaching makes sense.

Therefore, if I know how many active clients I need each month, I can then determine how many free strategy calls I need to complete each month as well.

To gain strategy calls, I need to connect with people. If I can determine which actions attract strategy calls, I can then determine how much action I need to take.

Let’s say I average two strategy calls every time I am a guest on a podcast. I can then work back to figure out how many podcasts appearances I need to make in order to get hit my number.

Those are key performance indicators. It is all about taking the right action. Start using them to reach your goals.

IDEAL CLIENTS

My coach and I determined how many free strategy sessions I need to conduct to find the ideal clients that get the most benefit from my coaching.

Ideal clients are key. Not every podcaster is the right fit for my coaching. There are specific podcasters that can truly use my coaching to really improve their podcast and business.

There are some podcasters that benefit greatly from my coaching. They have a fantastic business helping their clients. They use their podcast to attract new clients and build their authority in the space.

On the other side, there are many podcasters I help with my free strategy session that are not a great fit for my coaching program. Those podcasters get a great deal of benefit from the session by defining their strategy and improving their show. Their show simply isn’t at the level where it can support coaching.

It is just fine that these podcasters aren’t ready. They will eventually be in a place where they are ready to start. We just work together to figure out where they are today.

PARTNER

That is the benefit of having a coach or accountability partner. An outside perspective can ask the questions you don’t see, because you are too close to the situation.

If you would like to see where you are, check out my free strategy session online at PodcastTalentCoach.com/coaching. You can get the details and schedule your free session right there.

You need to take time this week to not only set your goals, but truly define the areas that will really move the needle for you. Define the Key Performance Indicators that will move your podcast and business toward your goals.

Looking back at my process, the most productive week I ever had occurred when I was specific about the very next steps I needed to take. Then I put them in writing to help me start.

That week, I accomplished more than I had in the previous 2 months. It was all because I determined what actions would make a difference, I wrote them down, and then did the very next thing on the list. Focus and start.

YOUR KPIs

As you develop your KPIs, you should have around six. That number will vary depending on the size and scope of your business.

There are four characteristics of every key performance indicator. The should be

  • Measurable
  • with a target
  • from a source
  • and a reporting frequency

Your KPI must be able to be measured. “Be better at returning calls” isn’t specifically measurable. 10 clients is measurable.

It should have a target. 10 calls each week has a target with respect to number and time.

A good KPI has a source. You know exactly where they data will come from and how it is measure. “Connect with 10 clients each week” doesn’t have a clear source. You don’t really know what that means.

When your KPI is “10 face-to-face meetings with clients each week”, you know exactly how to measure that KPI. You know the source of the data.

Finally, you need a reporting frequency. It does you no good to set a KPI if you don’t plan to review your progress on a weekly or monthly basis. Inspect what you expect.

EXAMPLES

There are various examples of strong KPIs.

With regard to sales, you might measure the number of qualified leads in your sales funnel.

A customer KPI could be the number of clients that renew each month.

Marketing KPIs could be monthly website visits or Facebook posts each week.

You need to track these KPIs over months. As you start, these will adjust quite a bit. You won’t know what has impact on the results until you track it.

I know that 2 out of every 3 calls result in a client, because I tracked it over time. The results of a few months gave me an indication of that cause and effect.

Take time to begin tracking your results. If you post a call-to-action on Facebook once a day, what does that do for your results? When you bump it up to twice a day, is there any effect on the results?

Determine what your next steps need to be. Then, start by working backwards.

START WITH FIVE YEAR GOALS

Where do you want to be in five years? Define your long-term goals first.

Use the SMART method to get clear. You might consider creating realistic goals along with some stretch goals.

Five years is a long time. You can get a lot done in 1,825 days.

Many of us overestimate what we can do in one year, but underestimate what we can do in five. Think big.

How much do you want to be earning? What do you want your work life to look like? What does your family look like? How does your health look? Where are you in your spiritual walk?

GOALS NEXT YEAR

Next, where do you want to be next year? Be clear on the goals and lay in some stretch goals.

If you want to make $24k over the next year, $2,000 a month could be realistic. Maybe $8,000 a month is possible if a few key things happen. That would take you to $100k next year. That would be a nice stretch goal.

Just like the saying says, “Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you’ll land among the stars.” It has been credited to Norman Vincent Peale. I’ve heard the great Les Brown say it. Regardless of where it originated, there is truth in it.

Shoot for your stretch goal. You may just outperform your realistic number.

QUARTERLY GOALS

Now, let’s break the yearly goal into four parts. What do you need to accomplish in each quarter of the next 12 months to get you to your yearly goal?

You eat an elephant one bite at a time. Break your yearly goal into quarterly milestones. Be clear and specific. “Get more clients” is not a goal. How many do you need. If you need 24 over the year, can you land 6 per quarter or one every other week?

As you break your goal into smaller steps, you will see if your goals are feasible with the tools and time you currently have. You may find that you need to add help or give up something in order to make the goals happen.

WEEKLY GOALS

Next, we take the quarterly goals and break those into week-by-week goals. You have 13 weeks in the quarter. What needs to happen every week to make the goals a reality?

Be sure to build in some “catch up” time. Again, we overestimate what we can accomplish in a short time. The shorter the time, the more we miss the estimate. Build in time to catch up each week.

THIS WEEK

Now that you have your weekly goals, what are the things that need to be completed this week? Create the task list and start.

TODAY

Take a look at this week. What are your objectives today? What is the next most important step? Start there.

REVIEW

Review each step of the way. Are your goals realistic? Can you really put in that much time everyday, every week and every month to make your goals happen?

Review your KPIs on a regular basis and adjust where needed. Make sure the key performance indicators are truly indicators. If you adjust them, ensure there is an effect on your results.

CONSISTENT ACTION

Finally, stick with it. Focus. The only way you will achieve your goals is with consistent action. Take steps forward every day.

To help you take those steps, find an accountability partner. Maybe join a mastermind. Hire a coach. Enlist a partner. Whatever it takes to keep you moving forward toward your goals.

Setting goals and writing them down won’t be enough. Focused action on the next step is the key to making your goals a reality. Start and then stay accountable to action.

I’d love to help you. Check out my Free Strategy Session where you and I will sit down for 30 minutes to lay out an action plan for your show and business. Get the details at www.PodcastTalentCoach.com/coaching.

Let’s turn your information into engaging entertainment.

Podcast

What Do You Need To Start A Podcast – Episode 248

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It seems so overwhelming. Launching and starting a podcast looks so technical and confusing. What do you need to start a podcast?

START A PODCAST IN 4 WEEKS

It really is much easier than it appears. You can truly have a show up and running in four weeks.

When I was launching my podcast, I had been in radio for a couple decades. I knew how to create a great show.

What I didn’t know was how to get it on the internet, on Apple Podcasts and out to the world. I knew how to create an .mp3, but how do I make that .mp3 an actual podcast?

I watched a ton of YouTube videos. It felt like the more I watched, the more confused I became. It seemed everyone had their opinions without a real “right” answer. I had almost too many options. Which were the best?

6 STEPS TO LAUNCH

Here are six easy steps to follow to get your podcast up and running. Don’t overthink it. Done is much better than working for perfection.

1. Logo & graphics

Canva

Fiverr

99 Designs

2. Website

WordPress

Hosting

3. Microphone

AudioTechnica ATR2100

Samson Q2U

4. Recording software

Audacity

Hindenburg

5. ID3 tags

An ID3 tag is a data container within an MP3 audio file stored in a prescribed format. The information is used by software like audio players and podcast catchers. For songs, this data usually contains the artist name, song title, year and genre of the audio file. For podcasts, it contains show name, show title, host name, website, and artwork.

ID3 Editor at PA-Software.com.

6. Hosting account

Libsyn

Blubrry

 

Hook up your gear. Record your show. Add ID3 tags. Upload it to your podcast host. Post it on your website.

This just gets your podcast out to the world. However, it doesn’t ensure you have great content.

To connect with your audience, you need to define your listener, lay out your mission, develop a show clock and more. You can get my podcast launch checklist to start a podcast at http://podcasttalentcoach.com/podcastlaunch.

Create great content. Spend most of your time promoting your show.

 

You can find my podcast and other tools to help you create great content at www.PodcastTalentCoach.com.

Let’s turn your information into engaging entertainment.

Podcast

Finding Your Confidence – Episode 168

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Finding Your Confidence – Episode 168

Finding Your Confidence
Copyright: lzflzf / 123RF Stock Photo

Where do you start? How do you convince yourself that you have what it takes? How do you develop your confidence to launch?

There is a great quote from famous basketball coach Bobby Knight that says, “The will to win is not nearly as important as the will to prepare to win.Everyone wants to win but not everyone wants to prepare to win.”

Many podcasters want to win. Then the little voice in their head holds them back. Is that you? Do you have the desire to get your message out to the world, but lack the confidence to actually follow through with it?

That impostor syndrome creeps in quite often. I think it is human nature.

I recently sent a quick, 5-question survey to my tribe. The survey is designed to ensure I am delivering the content every week that you can use for your show. The survey helps ensure I am delivering and serving you each week.

If you would like to take 3 minutes to complete the survey, you can find it here.:

 – – PODCAST TALENT COACH SURVEY – –

Three of the five questions are yes/no questions. It is truly a 3-minute survey. And, it is completely anonymous.

I HAVE NO VALUE

The first question on the survey is, “With regard to your podcast, what are you struggling with most?”

The answers to that question spanned the podcasting spectrum from traffic to monetization to workflow and everything in between.

One of the answer really struck me. The respondent said, “Confidence – do I REALLY have anything valuable to share?”

Wow, what an answer. There is obviously some passion there. Otherwise, they wouldn’t have the desire to launch a podcast in the first place.

I want you to remember this. You can learn technique. You can’t learn passion.

If you have the passion, you can learn how to produce and promote a podcast to gain an audience. If you have a passion for something, there is a great chance others have the same passion.

Dave Jackson just interviewed a podcaster on the School of Podcasting who has a podcast designed to put you to sleep. The guy intentionally rambles so you can fall asleep to his show. It is reported that he gets about 2.3 MILLION downloads per month.

If he can produce a podcast designed to put you sleep, you can surely share your passion. I can teach you the nuts and bolts. It is up to you to bring the passion.

A COACH CAN HELP

On PodcastTalentCoach.com, I offer coaching services. To ensure you and I are a fit to work together, I offer a free strategy and planning review first. This helps us determine that you see the benefit of my coaching and I know you are willing to learn. We put a plan in place and then decide if we want to move forward.

Find the link in the coaching section of PodcastTalentCoach.com.

The final question on the survey is, “If you have yet to take advantage of the free, no obligation review of your show with Podcast Talent Coach, what is holding you back from the opportunity?”

To that question, somebody replied, “The show is hopeless – I don’t want to spend money because I really have n0 talent.”

There is another example of the impostor syndrome creeping in. The talent to produce a podcast can usually be taught. You don’t need a big voice and huge sense of humor. You simply need the passion to share your love of your niche.

PODCAST ABOUT YOUR PASSION

I know that sounds like logical, common sense. I know you probably think only a crazy person would ever put the time and effort into a podcast on a topic about which they do not care. It’s not as crazy as it sounds.

Podcasters and broadcasters alike will often discuss topics they think interests their audience. These may be topics in which the podcaster may have a slight interest, but not a passion. They tell themselves, “I must discuss this. It is what the audience expects.”

It creates a problem when you are only generally interested in a topic and you’re only discussing it because you think the audience will be interested. As you discuss, you will sound generally interested. It is tough to fake interest for any length of time. Your listeners will notice. When you aren’t interested, they aren’t interested.

Find that topic that stirs your passion. When you are passionate, your audience will hear your enthusiasm come through the speakers. Your enthusiasm will be contagious. Your passion will stir their interest.

I’m sure you’ve seen a professor who had the ability to make a dry subject interesting. Maybe it was your trigonometry teacher. They were passionate about the subject and created an interest with you. There may not have been a passion in you for trig. But, there was some interest.

Interest works from speaker to audience. It won’t work from audience to speaker. For true audience engagement, podcast about your passion.

BATTLE THE IMPOSTOR

If you have ever fought the impostor syndrome, being more prepared will help you win that battle. Being prepared for your show will give you focus, make your show more entertaining, and create stronger relationships with your listeners. Most importantly, it will give you confidence to overcome impostor syndrome. You will be able to build that belief in yourself.

The impostor syndrome, or impostor phenomenon, is the psychological phenomenon in which people are unable to internalize their accomplishments. Despite external evidence that proves they are deserving and successful, those that suffer from impostor syndrome do not feel they deserve the success.

These people believe their success came about not because of skill or expertise, but more because of luck or manipulation. Students sometimes face this phenomenon in college when they tell themselves they really don’t belong in such an esteemed university and others may soon discover the fraud.

It is common for us all to experience the impostor syndrome to some extent. The phenomenon is roughly the opposite of your ego. Your ego is telling you that you are the best around and people should admire everything you’ve done.

Your internal impostor is then telling you that you have no authority to be doing this. You are a fake and a fraud with no credibility. The only reason you are in this position according to your internal impostor is because nobody has yet discovered the truth.

Both your ego and impostor exist within you. Learning how to manage both is a challenge. Take steps to build confidence within yourself. Understand that others fight the same battle. You are not alone.

BELIEVE IN YOURSELF

You have every right to create a great podcast. You have just as much right as the next podcaster. There is only one expert at your opinion. That expert is you.

Nobody knows more about your beliefs and opinion than you do. Develop confidence in yourself. You have great content and a unique opinion. Believe in yourself. You’ll be great. Prepare for it.

Being well prepared for your show and having the confidence to stick to the plan will help you win that battle against you internal impostor.

Do you need help with your podcast? Check out my coaching services. Let’s see what we can do.

 – – COACHING SERVICES – –

You can find my podcast and other tools to help you create great content at www.PodcastTalentCoach.com.

Let’s turn your information into engaging entertainment.