As we enter a new year, many of us are brimming with anticipation for the opportunities that lie ahead, both in our personal lives and in the realm of podcasting. We are determined to turn these aspirations into reality, to take your podcast to the next level.
Establishing clear goals is crucial and can significantly influence the success of your podcast in the coming year.
I want to focus on some broader areas that are essential to take your podcast to the next level.
1) Enhancing Your Storytelling Skills
Storytelling is a vital aspect of podcasting, deserving of its own dedicated section. The reality is that only a few people excel at it or make a concerted effort to incorporate storytelling elements into their shows.
You might wonder, “How can I craft a compelling story from a conversation with someone I’ve never met, especially if my podcast is interview-based?” The answer lies in recognizing what captivates listeners. It’s those interviews where the guest is a captivating storyteller, able to engage us with their responses, regardless of the topic.
When you can transform dense or seemingly dry subjects into entertaining and informative content, you’ll achieve great success with your podcast.
Your role as the host is pivotal in setting up engaging stories, even with unfamiliar interviewees.
And you have two important tools at your disposal.
Recruiting and Filtering Guests
Finding quality guests, regardless of your show’s stage, is a challenge. Initially, it involves intensive research and effort to attract qualified guests. Beyond expertise, look for their ability to craft engaging and relatable narratives.
Crafting Guest Interview Questions
Crafting questions strategically is vital. The way you structure your questions can prompt storytelling. Such questions could be:
- “Tell me about a time when…”
- “What would your best day ever be like…”
- “Walk me through how you did this…”
- “What is your greatest regret and why…”
- “What were you feeling during…”
- “What’s the best piece of advice you were even given…”
- “What was the best/worst/weirdest/exceptional moment…”
Notice these are open-ended, prompt questions that necessitate a story as the answer.
Mastering the art and science of storytelling takes time and practice, but it’s a critical skill for both hosting and podcasting success.
2) Embrace a Continuous Learning Mindset
Successful individuals in various fields share a common trait: an insatiable appetite for learning. They consume books, podcasts, courses, attend events, and continuously seek knowledge. Even as experts, they maintain humility, understanding that there’s always more to learn.
Extend this appetite for learning with your guests with key questions that you (and your listeners) want the answers to.
3) Your Podcast is a Business
Viewing your podcast as a standalone business entity, rather than just a podcast, expands your monetization options. Instead of solely relying on sponsorships, consider your podcast as part of a broader business strategy. Use it as a funnel to drive listeners toward other offerings, such as eBooks, courses, products, consulting, or membership communities.
This approach allows for diversification and increased revenue potential. It also aligns your podcast with broader business goals, setting clear expectations for growth and profitability. Building a profitable podcast business takes time, and it involves mastering multiple facets, including market research, promotion, lead conversion, and ease of transition for your audience.
4) Build and Curate Your Community
Growing your network within the podcasting community is essential for learning, sharing ideas, and replicating success. Connect with individuals who have achieved what you aspire to achieve in your podcasting journey. Borrow insights and strategies from those who have excelled in their shows and businesses.
Expanding your community involves engaging with online podcasting groups and forums, attending local podcasting meetups, reaching out to admired podcasters, and joining or forming mastermind groups. These connections offer valuable support, insights, and cross-pollination of ideas.
Remember that communities thrive on mutual giving and taking. Approach interactions with the intention of contributing, not just extracting value. This approach will enrich your podcasting experience and help you achieve your goals.
