Big Podcast Playbook - Marketing for Podcasters (A Podcast on Podcasting)

How to Keep Your Podcast Rolling ... Even in a Crisis

What keeps the podcast machine rolling when ice storms, guest rejections, and burnout threaten your production? How to book better guests, maintain your standards, and plan for resets in this episode of Big Podcast Playbook ... Big Ideas in This Episode Reject generic pitches; stand out and win guests I got rejected by Seth Godin ... Why to never start interviews with "Tell me about yourself" Ditch TikTok-style guest audio Steal Hollywood's high-output secret Reset your podcast brand Don't let your audience trap you forever Why You Should Listen How to book A-list podcast guests—even if you have zero connections (and why begging publicists is killing your growth) Steal the ultra-rare "pre-interview research secret" that makes guests desperate to say yes (and spill their best secrets on your show) The deadliest mistake 99% of podcasters make with guest outreach ... and how to write irresistible pitches that cut straight through the noise The trick that lets you sidestep gatekeepers, leapfrog industry hierarchies, and go directly to the talent YOU want (instead of settling for scraps) Why "Dear Sir, I recently listened to…" makes you invisible ... and the exact wording to become an unforgettable host A psychological hack ripped from 90s direct mail that can snag you top experts, even when money isn't enough How rejection can be secretly more valuable than landing a big name ... and the story you can use to beat your competitors Discover the sneaky way to set standards so high, even so-called "influencers" have to up their game to be on YOUR podcast The "Aunt Mildred on Zoom" disaster: why lenient audio standards are killing your show's growth—and how to make every guest perform like a pro The forbidden rule: When (and why) to say NO to famous guests ... so you can build jealous demand and take full control of your microphone The unseen release discipline secret that separates billion-dollar brands from podfade nobodies—even during disaster, chaos, or epic hangovers How to "batch" your recordings and create unstoppable podcast momentum ... even on a shoestring schedule (lazy but lethal) The real reason being "over-prepared" will DESTROY your interviews (and how Mike Tyson's punch-in-the-face rule can set you free) The "season arc" masterplan that keeps listeners glued, destroys boredom, and creates fans willing to beg for the next episode How to time the perfect podcast reset ... so you never get trapped in a format you hate (and keep your freedom, fame, and audience envy forever) Episode Timestamps [05:00] The "thousand-dollar letter" gambit: How David Hooper tried to win Seth Godin's attention with an outlandish donation—and why it spectacularly backfired [07:11] Why "Tell me about yourself" is a rookie podcast mistake ... and what happens when you give stars an open mic about their latest thing [09:18] The embarrassing truth: How A-list internet influencers show up unprepared for major radio (and what you must demand from your guests!) [12:38] The harsh audience reality: Why begging for last-minute guests and winging episodes will destroy your podcast following [14:38] The "Mike Tyson rule" of interviewing ... what happens when your perfect game plan gets wrecked by one unexpected guest response [18:00] Reset or risk irrelevance: The strategy David Hooper used to shake up his entire podcast and why every show needs a periodic restart [22:19] The chilling influencer trap: How one top podcaster became prisoner to her conspiracy-hungry audience—and the jaw-dropping story behind a single makeup photo You want these links ... Subscribe to Big Podcast Playbook See Big Podcast AMP for personalized podcast growth assistance The Newsletter for Podcasters Big Podcast Insider - Weekly Podcasting Newsletter ​ Big Podcast Insider is a weekly newsletter on podcasting. If you like the content of this episode, you can subscribe here – it's free and you can unsubscribe at any time with a single click.​ Want more help growing your podcast audience? Big Podcast Extra - Podcasting Tips Big Podcast AMP (Audio Monetization Program) Click the icon below to listen.

Key Production Skills Every Podcaster Needs

A snowstorm threatened to derail his live show ... David breaks down exactly what production skills podcasters need to stay independent, keep their shows on track, and never miss an episode (even when things get wild) in this episode of Big Podcast Playbook ... Big Ideas in This Episode Build addiction: listeners willing to haul you through snow Podcasters crave loyalty, not just listeners Snowmageddon: Would your podcast survive? Control your sound, control your fate Envy-inducing: pro radio tools you can steal Quitters lose ... how to master your personal sustainability edge Editing for clarity: ruthless cuts, loyal fans Why You Should Listen The "Snowmageddon Loyalty Test": How a fiercely loyal audience will literally move mountains (or send 18-wheelers) for your podcast The blindingly simple mic trick that makes amateur podcasters sound like seasoned radio pros (and how most YouTubers blow it) Why "room awareness" is your secret weapon for dominating listener attention—even if your studio is a closet stuffed with winter coats How to cut your editing time in half by getting ruthless (without sacrificing one ounce of quality) The sneaky audio engineering level that gives your show an unfair advantage over "louder-is-better" competitors How one $200 piece of radio gear puts you in the same league as Rush Limbaugh and Terry Gross ... almost Is podcasting actually easier than radio? The dirty truth advertisers don't want you to know How to handle podcast ad breaks with film director-level mastery (and keep listeners salivating for more) The hidden reason pros record more content than they need—and why this "secret stash" gives you complete control How a simple, production workflow lets you outsource laziness—while you effortlessly pump out episodes What most podcasters get dead wrong about "file management" … and how a repeatable system means never losing a show again Why your most powerful path to riches might be less about downloads—and more about personal relationships that spark envy The seductive power of "cut for clarity"—how trimming the fat could get you adored, envied, and listened to more than your rivals Why one podcasting AI can do in 2 minutes what used to take a whole team (and how to exploit it for greed) How mastering these core production skills puts you light years ahead of the competition—letting you control your podcast destiny without begging techies, co-hosts, or fate Episode Timestamps [00:01:07] The listener loyalty test: Listeners offering hotel rooms, 18-wheelers, and professional drivers just to keep the show on air! [00:05:41] Why TikTokers and YouTubers fail at audio (and what secret most audio-first podcasters know that the video crowd misses) [00:07:17] The "down to the second" editing exercise that will instantly reveal the fat you never knew was hiding in your podcast [00:09:46] The host's magician move: using outros and teasers to make your interviews feel seamless—even when editing behind the scenes [00:11:08] The one recording meter range you MUST hit—ignore it and risk ruining your podcast audio forever [00:13:15] The "invisible" rackmount tool that makes dog barks and air conditioners disappear from your recordings [00:16:58] How building repeatable systems transforms you from overwhelmed amateur to daily podcasting pro You want these links ... Subscribe to Big Podcast Playbook See Big Podcast AMP for personalized podcast growth assistance The Newsletter for Podcasters Big Podcast Insider - Weekly Podcasting Newsletter ​ Big Podcast Insider is a weekly newsletter on podcasting. If you like the content of this episode, you can subscribe here – it's free and you can unsubscribe at any time with a single click.​ Want more help growing your podcast audience? Big Podcast Extra - Podcasting Tips Big Podcast AMP (Audio Monetization Program) Click the icon below to listen.

What Makes Forgettable Podcasts Bingeable

What separates a forgettable podcast from a bingeable one? David dives into the secrets of great content, writing strategies, and connecting with your audience in this episode of Big Podcast Playbook ... Big Ideas in This Episode Launch with 25 episodes: binge culture hack Ditch vague intros ... cold opens hook fast Segment secrets: radio's "Demo Derby" grabs sponsors Write podcast titles that earn obsessive clicks Get specific ... paint mind-pictures, win loyalty Only one call-to-action: avoid "Aesop's Donkey" paradox Speak insider language—create envy and exclusivity Why You Should Listen Why launching with 25 episodes could make listeners binge on your podcast like hungry wolves at a steakhouse (while competitors starve for attention) The one segment-creation secret David Hooper used to land a syndicated radio show (and big-name sponsors—no fame required) How "cold opens" hypnotize your audience before they even know what hit them—and why skipping them costs you loyal fans The simple segment structure formula that can make your content irresistible—even if you've never written a script before How strong endings can create addiction ... forcing your audience to always want "one more episode" (Netflix wishes they knew this ... just kidding, they probably DO know it) The one mistake in podcast intros that drives listeners away before you finish saying, "How are you, Brenda?" "Fuel for Thought" ... how a single phrase can make you the king of your audience's mind (and keep them begging for more) The dark art of descriptive writing: make listeners "see" your show, even if you record in a 5x8 closet (envy for your production secrets … triggered) Why vague promises sabotage your authority—and exactly what to say so people obey your every call-to-action How to make your episode titles scream "click me!" ... the spam-ad trick listeners can't resist (lust for content activated) The sneaky difference between clever headlines and clear headlines—and why going "general" is for losers who want to fade into obscurity How knowing your audience's lingo gives you power ... and instantly separates insiders from outsiders before the first word is spoken The "Aesop's Donkey" curse: why giving listeners too many choices leaves your podcast starving for attention ... and how to flip it in your favor How to reframe any segment for TOTAL CONTROL over who falls in love (or rage) with your podcast ... no apologies needed The secret that's been hiding under your nose: why polarizing content drives the true fans wild … and sends the sheep running (control the market by speaking only to the wolves) Episode Timestamps [00:01:35] What separates forgettable podcasts from bingeable ones—and why launching with 25 episodes might change everything [00:06:13] How a last-minute idea in a pitch meeting landed a syndicated radio show and got big sponsors onboard [00:09:07] Why "it depends" is the enemy of good podcast advice—and what you should say instead [00:10:49] The dirty secret behind headlines that "earn the click"—and how edgy, specific segments build cult audiences [00:13:06] How a scandalous 90s club band taught David Hooper the secret to making any niche irresistible—even Christian acts [00:14:04] The difference between clever and clear podcast titles, and why being too funny might actually lose you listeners [00:17:25] Why using your audience's secret language instantly separates insiders from outsiders—and makes your podcast irresistible to the right crowd You want these links ... Subscribe to Big Podcast Playbook See Big Podcast AMP for personalized podcast growth assistance The Newsletter for Podcasters Big Podcast Insider - Weekly Podcasting Newsletter ​ Big Podcast Insider is a weekly newsletter on podcasting. If you like the content of this episode, you can subscribe here – it's free and you can unsubscribe at any time with a single click.​ Want more help growing your podcast audience? Big Podcast Extra - Podcasting Tips Big Podcast AMP (Audio Monetization Program) Click the icon below to listen.

Core Podcasting Mic Skills

Master the five essential on-mic skills every podcaster needs, from hosting and interviewing to storytelling and voice control, in this episode of Big Podcast Playbook ... Big Ideas in This Episode Why "one-trick podcasters" get left behind Outsmart big studios: master every podcast skill NPR advice that flops for independents Be the hired gun clients envy and chase Ignore "radio land" and make listeners feel chosen Rambling guests? Here's how to wrestle control Death, dedication, and the power of pacing Why You Should Listen Why mastering "core on-mic skills" gives you instant status and respect — even if you're a complete unknown How to make your podcast so binge-worthy, your competition will be green with envy (while their own listeners defect to you!) The embarrassing mistake smart podcasters STILL make on interviews (and how it kills growth… are you guilty?) Do you secretly lust after the power to control every conversation? Learn the pacing trick that puts you in command How to turn any guest — even ramblers and narcissists — into pure podcast gold (with a Jedi-level redirect tactic) The glutton's way to churn out episodes fast… without ever needing a guest again (you'll never be hungry for content) The dirty little secret NPR won't tell you about podcast production — and why ignoring it could keep you broke How the oldest active podcaster hacked her way to total creative independence (learn what she refused to outsource!) The one "get in, get good, get gone" formula that will make your show addictively efficient — most hosts NEVER do this How the dark art of monologuing gives you total control and audience loyalty (even if you think you ramble too much) Use the envy-triggering skill of storytelling to have listeners glued to your every word — longing for the payoff The 3-part "parking lot moment" method for crafting stories people can't turn off (even after arriving home) Why the voice-control technique used by radio legends like Casey Kasem gives you seductive authority on the mic (and how to steal it) Strategic silence: The forbidden trick that makes every word sound richer — and your rivals sound like frantic amateurs Why developing these podcasting skills lets you outlast, outplay, and out-earn even the most well-financed shows (power is yours, no matter your gear or budget) Episode Timestamps [01:25] "This guy was amazing. Had one of those movie trailer voices … but that was all that he had." — The brutal truth about relying on talent alone in podcasting. [02:35] "A lady from NPR… She's giving a presentation … and says, 'Well, that's really for your producer.'" — A hilarious real-life moment revealing how out of touch even big media pros can be with indie podcasters. [05:12] "You are a part of that sustainability. You have to be able to continue to show up…" — The overlooked secret behind keeping your podcast alive when most fade out. [07:52] "This is an episode for you. I am talking to you. I don't say… 'All my fans listening.'" — Why the personal touch matters more than ever (and what old-school radio still gets wrong!). [10:03] "Are you doing it? You go in with an agenda, ten questions … you go into that next thing without responding to what's happening." — The embarrassing interview mistake even top podcasters make—and how to avoid it! [13:40] "Monologuing is weird, so you're going to have to practice it. But if you want to be a powerful podcaster, you need to get better at it." — The daring challenge: Hold attention solo, no guests, no music. [16:13] "You're going to lose your ability to sustain … to take a deep breath and go on and on … I could do that forever because I work on my breath control." — The voice control secret that separates pros from amateurs (and what smoking can teach you about podcasting longevity). You want these links ... Subscribe to Big Podcast Playbook See Big Podcast AMP for personalized podcast growth assistance The Newsletter for Podcasters Big Podcast Insider - Weekly Podcasting Newsletter ​ Big Podcast Insider is a weekly newsletter on podcasting. If you like the content of this episode, you can subscribe here – it's free and you can unsubscribe at any time with a single click.​ Want more help growing your podcast audience? Big Podcast Extra - Podcasting Tips Big Podcast AMP (Audio Monetization Program) Click the icon below to listen.

Returning After a Long Break: What Happens?

Can podcast awards really boost your reputation, and what happens when you return to podcasting after years away? David Hooper shares stories, listener letters, and hard-won insights in this episode of Big Podcast Playbook ... Big Ideas in This Episode Game podcast awards for envy-inducing credibility Micro-fame: win an award with only 50 votes Awards hype: open doors, but hollow inside Quit for years? Return with even more power Feel like a beginner again ... and win Old podcast kings return: threatened or inspired? Your fans crave glory too ... give it to them Why You Should Listen The hidden reason winning podcast awards can make your audience obsessed with you (and how to exploit it for massive loyalty) Why most awards are "vanity metrics" — and the sneaky little trick to use them for big-time credibility The under-the-radar method to game nearly any awards system (without breaking a single rule) "Best None of the Above"? How targeting obscure categories can make you a legend What elite podcasters do to turn tiny wins into doors flung open ... while you're still begging outside How to use jealousy to make your fandom fight for your honor (and skyrocket your reach overnight) The Cinderella story: coming back to podcasting after years in the abyss (Are you doomed or destined for a comeback?) Want a tribe who worships every word? Learn the community-building move that'll make your podcast listeners ravenous for more The one mistake fresh podcasters make when chasing awards (and how you can profit from their failure) Why the rules of podcasting have changed forever (and how industry dinosaurs will never see you coming) The real secret to regaining power after you've disappeared from the scene (and how to turn your absence into envy-fueled advantage) Why your rusty "return" is your most powerful superpower ... if you remember this one thing How seasoned hosts quietly outmaneuver the young hotshots ... with less effort and a bigger payday The hidden cost of burning yourself out (and why laziness just might lead to long-term podcasting power) The quickest way to get your confidence and voice back (plus a little-known daily ritual almost no podcast coach will tell you about) Episode Timestamps [00:01:47] How winning podcast awards is actually more about community building than personal achievement (and how few votes it really takes to win!) [00:02:10] The untold story of how a niche Renaissance Festival band topped the global charts thanks to a "Lord of the Rings" tune (and what it reveals about gaming online popularity) [00:04:46] The eye-opening truth: It might only take five votes to become an award-winning podcaster ... and how one "crappy" album cover won five times! [00:07:00] The secret behind accepting an award in an empty arena—how one podcaster created viral excitement by live streaming his own victory. [00:08:52] The Christopher Cross "curse" ... why the Best New Artist Grammy went from a shrine to a closet, and what it teaches you about chasing external validation. [00:13:00] How coming back to podcasting after years away makes you a different (and potentially better) creator, and why embracing that transformation is your secret edge. [00:20:18] The real reason podcasters get stuck after a break: feeling like a beginner again, and David Hooper's battle plan for getting your groove (and confidence) back faster than you think. You want these links ... Subscribe to Big Podcast Playbook See Big Podcast AMP for personalized podcast growth assistance The Newsletter for Podcasters Big Podcast Insider - Weekly Podcasting Newsletter ​ Big Podcast Insider is a weekly newsletter on podcasting. If you like the content of this episode, you can subscribe here – it's free and you can unsubscribe at any time with a single click.​ Want more help growing your podcast audience? Big Podcast Extra - Podcasting Tips Big Podcast AMP (Audio Monetization Program) Click the icon below to listen.