Becoming a podcaster that people want to buy from rarely comes down to endless script revisions, long ads, or a more polished delivery. The shows that convert consistently tend to feel clear, intentional, and trustworthy long before an offer is ever mentioned. When listeners understand what you stand for and what to do next, buying stops feeling like a decision and starts feeling like a natural step.

In this episode, money mindset mentor, three-time author, and OG podcaster Denise Duffield-Thomas reveals the podcast choices that supported the growth of her multi-million-dollar business. Her approach challenges common assumptions about monetization and highlights how sustainable success is built through consistency, transparency, and systems that respect how people actually make decisions.

One of the most useful insights? How the 8 Money Archetypes decide when to buy.

This episode explores something I see come up again and again with podcasters: how our internal relationship with visibility and money quietly shapes every outward decision we make. Long before we talk about offers, those beliefs influence how clearly we communicate value, how confidently we frame our episodes, and whether listeners feel invited in or kept at a distance. Talking this through with Denise made it clear how much trust is built at this level, often without us realizing it.

One of the most fascinating parts of our conversation explored the eight money archetypes - a money personality framework developed by Kendall Summerhawk, in which Denise is certified - and how understanding these archetypes helps podcasters design content and offers that align with how their audience actually makes buying decisions.

1. Understand why Accumulators need clarity, reassurance, and an easy path to action - and how small friction points in your content or website can quietly block conversions.
2. Discover why Maverick podcasters often abandon shows or offers that are already working, and how building flexibility into your content strategy prevents self-sabotage.
3. See how Nurturers can shift from feeling guilty about selling to confidently monetizing their podcast by framing offers around impact, service, and care for others.
4. Reframe “too many ideas” as a strength for Alchemists, and learn how creating simple containers for content turns creativity into consistent momentum.
5. Learn why Rulers don’t need motivation, but clear systems - and how a podcast becomes a scalable business asset when efficiency and leverage are prioritized.
6. Understand how Connectors build trust through stories, humanity, and transparency - and why showing your process helps listeners feel safe engaging and buying.

Positioning also plays a key role here. Showing up as a contributor rather than an all-knowing authority creates a different kind of relationship with an audience. Listening to Denise reflect on learning alongside her listeners reminded me how trust deepens when people feel included rather than instructed.

Reassurance emerges as an important and often overlooked element. Some listeners need time, repetition, and confirmation before making decisions, and that isn’t hesitation to overcome - it’s a...

Most podcasters assume discovery happens through social media, word of mouth, or being featured by the editorial teams at Apple Podcasts or Spotify. But the data tells a very different story. In this episode, I sit down with Jennifer Han, CMO at Ausha, to unpack how listeners actually choose their next podcast, and why most creators are optimizing for the wrong behaviors.

What surprised even me is how dominant in-app search has become.

According to the industry discovery research we discuss, one in two podcast listeners discover new shows directly inside podcast apps, and 70% of them use the search bar.

Editorial features and charts? They account for a fraction of discovery.

If you want to grow sustainably, understanding how Apple Podcasts and Spotify search really work it’s truly foundational to surpass your competitors.

For the full list of links, resources and show notes, please visit:

https://thepodcastspace.com/podcast/s4-113-pso-and-ranking-on-podcast-platforms

Try PSO [affiliate link]: https://ausha.co/?fpr=psothepodcastspace

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• 00:46 - Meet Jennifer Han: Chief Marketing Officer for Ausha
• 01:33 - Understanding Podcast Search Optimization
• 06:45 - Practical Tips for Podcast Metadata
• 15:05 - Optimizing for Apple Podcasts and Spotify
• 23:07 - Tracking and Analyzing Podcast Performance
• 28:13 - Conclusion and Additional Resources

If you ask most podcasters what they’re doing to grow their show, the answers sound familiar: posting clips on social media, chasing consistency, experimenting with video, and hoping the algorithm finally notices them. But when you look at the data - real, self-reported data from creators who’ve been at this for years - a different story emerges. Growth isn’t evenly distributed, and effort doesn’t automatically translate into momentum. Some podcasts with massive audiences are shrinking, while smaller, focused shows are quietly compounding month over month. The gap isn’t about talent or effort but it’s truly about strategy.

That’s why my conversation with Jeremy Enns stopped me in my tracks. As the researcher behind the Podcast Marketing Trends Report, Jeremy looks past tactics and into patterns. What stood out most wasn’t what podcasters should be doing, but what actually correlates with sustainable growth and what doesn’t. Even more striking: his personal recommendation for podcasters who want to grow without ever touching social media.

Not as a contrarian take, but as a data-informed one.

• 03:10 – Who took the Podcast Marketing Trends Report 2005
• 05:30 – Why Big Podcasts Are Shrinking While Small Shows Grow
• 07:20 – You Don’t Need a Large Audience to Build a Profitable Podcast
• 09:55 – The Reality Behind Declining Podcast Growth Rates
• 12:45 – Audio vs. Video: How Metrics Are Being Distorted
• 16:50 – Do Social Platforms Actually Drive Podcast Growth?
• 20:00 – Short-Form Video Builds Brands, Not Downloads
• 28:40 – Why Email Is the Most Underrated Growth Channel
• 37:05 – How to Grow a Podcast Without Social Media

For the full list of links, resources and show notes, please visit:

https://www.thepodcastspace.com/podcast/s4-112-what-300-podcasters-reveal-about-podcast-growth-in-2025-podcast-marketing-trends-report

👩‍💻 Book your Podcast Power Hour: thepodcastspace.com/powerhour

Check out the Podcast Marketing Trends Report.

Reflecting on the annual impact of your podcast can often feel like never-ending numbers and charts, trends, and internet buzz. Downloads, comments, views - it's easy to get overwhelmed by the metrics that are supposed to define your success.

What if I told you that you could bypass this chaos by focusing on just three crucial questions to audit your podcast effectively and strategically?

In my 15+ years of working as a podcast marketer and content strategist, I've seen creators get analysis paralysis over podcast analytics, forgetting the core reasons they started in the first place. My goal with this episode is to help you reclaim clarity and purpose for your podcast with a simple, focused audit before the end of the year. Ready?

Just hit play.

📝 Reflect back on these three vital questions:

1. Did your audience grow meaningfully?
2. Did the podcast align with your larger business goals?
3. Were your processes conducive to effortless and effective content creation?

By keeping a pulse on these areas, you're equipped to go into the new year with a renewed focus and determination.

For more focused guidance, book a discovery call to plan a content strategy that suits your goals and minimizes the overwhelming noise.

Chapters:

• 00:00 Introduction to the Simplest Podcast Audit You'll Ever Make
• 00:12 The Importance of Strategic Podcast Audits
• 00:37 Equipping Yourself for Podcast Success
• 02:23 Understanding Podcast Metrics
• 06:16 Evaluating Podcast Impact on Goals
• 13:17 Tools and Processes for Podcast Efficiency
• 24:00 Final Thoughts and Invitation

For the full list of links, resources, and show notes, please visit:

https://www.thepodcastspace.com/podcast/s4-111-the-simplest-end-of-year-podcast-audit-youll-ever-do-just-3-questions

👩‍💻 Book your Podcast Power Hour: thepodcastspace.com/powerhour

If having a small audience is the number one insecurity podcasters face, the second biggest is this one: “My background isn’t traditional enough… so who am I to host a podcast?”

Maybe you’ve wondered the same.

Maybe you’ve questioned whether your experience “counts,” or whether you’re allowed to call yourself an expert.

Here’s the truth — the podcasters who stand out aren’t the ones with the most formal credentials. They’re the ones who understand how their lived experiences, soft skills, and natural strengths help them connect with listeners in a way no traditional path ever could. And in this episode, I’ll show you exactly how to tap into that.

You don’t need decades of experience or a perfect résumé to have a meaningful presence behind the mic. Listeners connect to shows that feel human — and humanity comes from perspective, not perfection. When you really think about the shows you love, it’s rarely about textbook expertise. It’s about how the host makes you feel understood.

Your past roles (even the unexpected ones) have given you tools you might not realize you have. Retail jobs? They train you to read emotions, understand insecurities, and create comfort — all skills that help you put guests at ease and show up confidently on camera or audio.

Hospitality teaches you to anticipate needs, calm nerves, and guide people through new experiences. If you’ve ever worked a service job, you’re already equipped to create a welcoming recording environment and a listener experience that feels intentional.

Maybe you’ve had communications, journalism, or content roles. Those experiences help you sharpen your hooks, verify information, tell stronger stories, and structure episodes that actually fulfill the promise of the title. These are transferable skills — not prerequisites you need to “earn.”

If you've worked in nonprofit or mission-driven spaces, you already understand how to do a lot with limited resources. That ability to be scrappy, collaborative, and strategic is gold when building a sustainable podcasting workflow.

Your personal passions matter, too. Your interest in design, aesthetics, or visual storytelling? That’s exactly what helps you create a coherent brand and a recording setup that communicates trust and personality before you say a single word.

If you geek out on psychology or human behavior, that becomes the backbone of your listener journey — guiding people from “I found this episode interesting” to “I want to learn more,” and eventually “I want to work with this host.”

And when you look at other podcasters with non-traditional backgrounds — like Hetal, who used her curiosity as a biomedical engineer to break down global health topics, or Dani (Danilea), who built a wellness show rooted in inclusivity — you’ll see proof that you don’t need the “right background.” You need the right angle.

Your life, your perspective, your interests, and even your quirks make your show memorable. These elements shape your show’s promise and help listeners feel like they’re learning from someone who gets them — not someone performing expertise.

As AI-generated content becomes more common, the shows that win will be the ones rooted in lived experience, real stories, and genuine connection. Everything that makes you “different” is exactly what helps you stand out.

Chapters:

• 00:00 - Overcoming Podcasting Insecurities
• 07:06 - The Importance of Hospitality Skills in Podcasting
• 13:42 - Marketing Strategies for Podcasters
• 18:57 - Connecting Personal Interests to Podcasting
• 24:08 - Final Thoughts on Unique Show Premises

For the full list of links, resources and show notes, please visit:

Are you torn between creating a dedicated social media account for your podcast or integrating it into your personal brand? You're not alone!

In this episode of The Podcast Space, we’ll break down the critical decision many podcasters face regarding social media as a podcaster. With my extensive experience in podcast marketing, I’ll guide you through the nuances of this dilemma that keeps so many podcasters paralyzed and help you find the best path forward for your unique situation.

As an award-winning podcast marketer, I’ve worked with podcasters and small business owners around the globe, and I’ve seen firsthand how your approach to social media can significantly impact your podcast's success. I emphasize that the choice between a dedicated account and your personal brand hinges on several factors: your personal goals, the resources at your disposal, and how you want to engage with your audience. Understanding these elements is essential for crafting effective podcasting strategies and achieving your podcasting goals.

Throughout the episode, I'll present five critical questions that every podcaster should consider when deciding their social media strategy:

• What is the main goal of your account?
• How many platforms can you realistically manage?
• Are you ready to develop a comprehensive strategy?
• Do you want to go beyond the bare minimum?
• And how can your listeners publicly share and discuss your show?

These questions are pivotal in shaping your podcast content strategy and ensuring that your social media efforts align with your overall podcast growth strategies.

I also explore the pros and cons of both approaches.

A personal account can be a powerful tool for those looking to build their personal brand, while a dedicated account can offer a clearer focus and more targeted marketing opportunities. Throughout this episode, I share tactical podcast advice and podcast marketing tips to help you make an informed decision that aligns with your vision.

Ultimately, my goal is to encourage you to be intentional in your social media strategy for your podcast. By doing so, you can forge meaningful connections with your audience, enhance your podcast visibility, and increase listener engagement.

Join me in this episode, as we navigate the world of social media for podcasters and equip you with the insights needed to avoid common podcasting mistakes and leverage your online presence effectively.

• 00:00 -Introduction to Social Media Strategies for Podcasters
• 01:01 - Key Questions to Determine Your Social Media Strategy
• 05:40 - When to Use Personal Accounts for Podcast Promotion
• 09:53 - When to Create a Dedicated Podcast Account
• 16:24 - Common Mistakes Podcasters Make on Social Media
• 23:20 - Conclusion and Call to Action

For the full list of links, resources and show notes, please visit:

https://www.thepodcastspace.com/podcast/s4-109-social-media-for-podcasters-dedicated-accounts-vs-personal-profiles-for-maximum-engagement-and-growth-strategies

👩‍💻 Book your Podcast Power Hour: thepodcastspace.com/powerhour

Tags: social media for podcasters, podcasting strategies, podcast marketing, social media strategies for podcasters, podcast growth strategies, podcasting for personal brand, social media, listener engagement strategies, podcast visibility

For years, business owners have been told that starting a podcast is the ultimate marketing move — the one strategy that magically solves everything. And while I genuinely believe podcasts are among the most powerful visibility tools available, I’ve also seen how they can become a money-draining hobby instead of a high-ROI business asset.

After working with podcasters across four continents, I’ve realized that many are unknowingly leaving money on the table — not because their show isn’t great, but because their monetization strategy isn’t aligned with their business model. Let’s break down the five biggest ROI mistakes that could be quietly costing you growth and revenue.

• 00:00 - The Power of Podcasts in Business
• 00:53 - Common Mistakes in Podcast Monetization
• 02:11 - Exclusive Deals vs. Broad Reach
• 05:07 - The Importance of Product Promotion
• 08:48 - Ad Breaks: A Missed Opportunity
• 13:42 - Selling Without Being Salesy
• 17:17 - The Fallacy of Affiliate Marketing

Many business owners see creators landing “exclusive” deals with Spotify or Samsung and think that’s the ultimate success metric. But here’s the reality — exclusivity limits your reach unless the platform can prove it will drive revenue or audience growth. Unless they can show data, testimonials, or client case studies that back up the ROI, you’re better off being everywhere (including YouTube)!

This is one of the most expensive mistakes I see. Too many podcasters are producing content their ideal clients don’t actually need. If your episodes aren’t directly connected to the problems your business solves, you’re building awareness with the wrong audience.

Here’s a simple test: can someone listen to your show and instantly visualize where their ad could go? If not, you’re missing out. Even if you’re not running ads yet, including clear ad breaks (“We’ll be right back after this quick message…”) signals to brands that you understand structure.

A lot of purpose-driven creators fear that selling will make them sound pushy. But education without goal connection will lead to creator burnout. Today’s content landscape is noisy, and subtlety doesn’t pay the bills.

Affiliate links can be tempting, but they rarely create meaningful income for small, niche shows. Let’s do the math: promoting a $30/month tool with a 10% commission might earn you $3. Promoting your own $500 coaching session or $95 digital product could earn you hundreds or thousands.

When you start structuring your podcast like a revenue engine — not a random content platform — everything changes. You create episodes intentionally. You align your call-to-actions. You attract sponsors who share your values. And suddenly, your show isn’t an expense — it’s an asset.

Podcasting is still one of the most effective visibility tools for service-based business owners. The difference between a show that drains your energy and one that drives consistent ROI is strategy.

For the full list of links, resources and show notes, please visit:

https://www.thepodcastspace.com/podcast/s4-108-how-to-turn-your-podcast-from-a-time-sink-into-a-sales-engine

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If you’re serious about growing your podcast in 2026, YouTube is no longer a “nice to have”—it’s a core part of your podcast marketing strategy. This year, YouTube rolled out a wave of new tools that make the platform friendlier than ever to creators who want to grow sustainably without burnout. From AI-powered analytics to auto-dubbing in 20+ languages, these updates are transforming how podcasters reach global audiences, collaborate smarter, and monetize content more effectively.

But here’s the real question: which of these features actually move the needle for podcasters—and which are just shiny distractions? In this episode of The Podcast Space, I welcome video strategist Yesenia Bocanegra to break down what’s essential for growth, what to experiment with, and what you can safely ignore (at least for now).

The new AI analytics in YouTube Studio are one of my favorite additions. They make it so much easier to understand how each episode performs, which content connects most with listeners, and where new subscribers are coming from. I’ve always loved data, but let’s be honest—it can be overwhelming. This update finally makes analytics feel approachable, even for creators who aren’t data nerds.

Then there’s the collaboration feature, which has been an absolute game changer for me. I tested it by tagging past guests in older videos, and after collaborating with sponsorship coach Justin Moore, I saw a 700% increase in views in just two weeks. It’s one of those “low effort, high reward” features that breathe new life into your back catalog. I now see collaborations as part of my passive marketing strategy—a simple but powerful way to extend reach without constantly creating new content.

Chapters:

• 00:00 - Introduction to YouTube's New Features for Podcasters
• 00:07- Leveraging YouTube’s New Collaborations Tool for Audience Growth
• 00:38 - AI Tools and Studio Upgrades for Content Creation

For the full list of links, resources and show notes, please visit:

https://www.thepodcastspace.com/podcast/s4-107-the-youtube-features-podcasters-cant-live-without-in-2026-and-whats-just-hype

👩‍💻 Book your Podcast Power Hour: thepodcastspace.com/powerhour