Episodes

Have you ever received a guest pitch so bad it made you want to crawl under your desk? In today's Podcasting Morning Chat, the Empowered community discusses guest pitches—the good, the bad, and the downright cringeworthy. We're not just here to swap horror stories. We explore the art of crafting winning pitches and handling those awkward moments with finesse. We cover everything from essential prep work before you hit "send" to the nuances of email pitching and even how to write subject lines th...

Are you struggling with writer's block in your podcasting journey? You're not alone! In today's episode, we host a community mastermind session to help community member, Dan Woerheide, tackle his creative challenge of generating episode ideas and breaking through creative barriers. The community shares practical and actionable techniques such as free writing, leveraging AI for content creation, and the critical role of defining your target audience. Tune in for valuable insights and podcasting t...

Today, we’re bringing back our favorite game—the Wheel of Topics! Our incredible community members take turns spinning the wheel and answering some of the most pressing questions about podcasting. In this episode, we explore what we wish we had known before starting our podcasts, how to stay motivated after the honeymoon phase ends and share some of the best time-saving practices. Plus, we're celebrating the wins of the Empowered Podcasting community, including some exciting award nominations! ...

Have you ever found yourself trapped in the endless cycle of comparing your journey to someone else's? Today, we're tackling the comparison topic - the good, the bad, and the unexpected. Inspired by a question from our co-host Jonathan in our Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group, we explore how comparison can sometimes motivate us to achieve more. As President Theodore Roosevelt said, "Comparison is the thief of joy" – or is it? Join us as we challenge ourselves to reflect on times when compariso...

Today, we're back with the latest in podcasting. We take a look into the podcast charts to uncover what's catching listeners' ears. We also examine the significant role of AI in podcast creation and its impact on both creators and listeners. We also bring you the inside scoop on upcoming awards shows and industry events from all over the globe. Tune in to stay ahead of the curve with the latest in podcast news. Episode Highlights: [6:19] Icebreaker question: What is the number one tool or servi...

Have you ever joined a mastermind group? Today, we discuss what masterminds are, how they differ from coaching, and why they could be valuable for your podcast’s growth strategy. We explore different types of masterminds, from free community-driven groups to paid experiences, and provide insights on finding the right fit. The community also highlights the benefits of collaboration and accountability in masterminds and how they can help supercharge your skills through peer wisdom. Episode Highli...

Are you curious about the advantages of being a podcast guest? Join the Empowered Podcasting community as we explore how appearing on podcasts can enhance your audience and personal brand. Listen in and gain insights on optimizing guest appearances and determine the best approach for you. Episode Highlights: [15:43] Pros and cons of being a podcast guest vs. host. [26:15] Using podcast guesting to build reputation and audience. [29:44] Guest podcasting vs starting a new podcast. [33:24] Mark...

Are you looking for inspiration to fuel your podcasting journey? Today, the Empowered Podcasting community shares their proudest moments, weekly wins, and the significant personal growth they've experienced. Join us as we explore how this medium shapes our community members and enjoy stories of perseverance, unexpected challenges, and remarkable personal development. Episode Highlights: [5:04] Icebreaker Question: what has been your proudest moment in podcasting so far? [5:09] Motivations, grow...

Have you ever considered what makes a podcast memorable? In this episode, we analyze the factors contributing to a podcast's lasting impact and its ability to build a strong community around it. We emphasize the crucial role of audience engagement and community building. Additionally, we provide insights into the importance of thorough interview preparation to ensure genuine conversations. We also touch on unconventional recording approaches and the power of a narrative style to differentiate yo...

Ever feel like the podcasting world is changing faster than you can hit "publish"? We've got you covered! This episode explores the latest news that's got creators buzzing. The community breaks down fresh industry stats and unpacks how AI is shaking things up. We also dig into exciting new features in popular apps and discuss features we'd like to see included in podcast-listening apps. Tune in to stay in the loop and ahead of the curve! Episode Highlights: [3:10] Icebreaker question: What's a ...

Are you faced with the challenge of finding your authentic voice in podcasting? You're not alone. Inspired by a question from our Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group, we're discussing the struggles and successes of developing a genuine on-air style. Our community explores how embracing your quirks can help you better connect with your audience and why staying true to yourself and practicing is so important. Episode Highlights: [5:36] Icebreaker Question: Where do you find license-free music for...

Have you ever considered why so many podcasts disappear after just three episodes? Today's topic was inspired by a question from our Empowered Podcasting Facebook group. We explore the surprising statistic that 90% of podcasts don't make it past their third episode. We discuss the benefits of planning ahead, creating episodes in batches, and setting achievable goals for growth. Additionally, we discuss discovering your distinctive voice and reconnecting with the inspiration that led you to start...

Are the podcast directories crowded, or is there still space for your voice? Today, we tackle a question from our community mailbag about podcast sponsorships. We explore strategies for approaching potential sponsors and share insights on building relationships. Our discussion touches on understanding your audience, crafting effective media kits, and contacting the right people to support your podcast. In our news segment, we discuss recent podcast trends, looking at changes in listening habits ...

The inaugural Empowered Podcasting Conference has transformed our online community into a thriving, real-world network of creators and collaborators. Our first-ever event in Charlotte, NC, is proving to be a resounding success, bringing together podcasters from contrasting backgrounds for an unforgettable weekend of learning, networking, and inspiration. Today, we reflect on overwhelmingly positive feedback about the conference's intimate atmosphere, sparking genuine connections and meaningful c...

We’re broadcasting live from the Hyatt Centric in Charlotte, North Carolina, home of the inaugural Empowered Podcasting Conference. Join us as we dive into the kickoff of this dynamic event and share our wins from the week. You'll hear from various speakers about their unique experiences and insights on podcasting, networking, and personal growth. We explore strategies for choosing sessions at conferences, the importance of building relationships, and how these interactions can spark new ideas a...

Ever felt lost in the sea of faces at a podcast conference? Or maybe you're a seasoned pro wondering if you're really getting the most out of these events? In this episode, we share practical tips for networking, choosing valuable sessions, and maintaining connections after the event. We discuss ways to boost your confidence, even if you're feeling a bit overwhelmed, and share some lessons we've learned along the way. These events are golden opportunities to grow, connect, and elevate your podca...

What is the one free service that could revolutionize your podcast workflow? Today the community shares their wishlists, revealing surprising insights about the challenges and dreams within the industry. Also through a creative exercise, we confront the anxieties that often hold us back in our creative projects. This led to some powerful moments of reflection and growth. We also explore the latest AI tools reshaping podcasting and discussed the often-underestimated power of community support in ...

Fear often resides within creativity, impacting how we approach our work and objectives. Today, the community is addressing two common challenges that many creators face: the fear of failure and, surprisingly, the fear of success. We share practical strategies to overcome these mental barriers and discuss setting realistic goals, managing perfectionism, and measuring progress in meaningful ways. And before we get to that, we address whether or not we use 'guest intake' forms and if so, how? Ep...

Can a negative mindset derail your podcasting dreams? Today, the community explores whether mindset matters in podcasting. We discuss the contrast between growth and fixed mindsets, revealing how a fixed mindset—characterized by avoiding challenges and fearing failure—can hinder podcast success. Our discussion emphasizes the power of language, sharing strategies to reframe negative self-talk, and cultivating a growth mindset. Episode Highlights: [4:50] Ice-breaker question: What's one habit/ro...

Are your podcast ads too long? In today's episode, the community tackles the hot topic of ad length and its impact on your show. We reveal insights and opinions that could transform your approach to podcast advertising, including real-world examples and practical tips from seasoned podcasters. This episode is for you if you are looking to optimize your ad strategy and keep your listeners engaged. Episode Highlights: [5:45] Icebreaker: What is the ideal length of a podcast ad? [8:05] Live reads ...

Ever wondered what story an inanimate object would tell? In today's episode, we kick off with the question: "If you could tell the story of an inanimate object, what would it be and why?" Our community offers a range of creative ideas. We segue into Riverside's exciting new update that's set to revolutionize podcast recording. We also discuss a mailbag question about the "follow for follow" strategy on social media, offering alternative practices for podcasters looking to grow their community. ...

In today's episode, we revisit and expand on the intriguing topic of promoting your podcast without relying heavily on social media. We kick off with a thought-provoking question: "How much time do you spend on social media promoting your podcast?" After learning about the levels of time investment by various podcasters, we explore whether social media is as effective as many assume. This episode sheds light on alternative strategies that can shift your perspective on the role of social media in...

Can a podcast succeed and build a strong following without depending on social media platforms? Today's discussion will explore methods for promoting your podcast beyond solely using social media and strategies for effectively utilizing social media to benefit your podcast's growth. Episode Highlights: [6:49] Icebreaker: Do you use a branded or non-branded email address? [19:51] Using social media to promote podcasts, with tips on creating engaging content. [25:12] Podcast growth strategies, i...

Today, we reflect on the concept of legacy in podcasting, discuss how podcasters can think about their legacy, share personal stories, and offer practical advice. This episode features insights from our hosts and community members, with plenty of thought-provoking moments and inspiration. Episode Highlights: [4:48] Ice-Breaker: What do you want your podcast legacy to be? [5:39] The value of connecting with your legacy [7:29] Jacqui shares why focusing on legacy makes you a better person [9:5...