How do I grow my podcast?
To grow your podcast, you need consistent content, smart promotion, and strategic audience engagement.
Quick Summary
To grow your podcast: deliver valuable content consistently, optimize your visibility, collaborate with others, and engage deeply with your audience.
Detailed Growth Strategy
1. Optimize Your Content
Pick a niche and stick to it: Know who you're talking to and what you're talking about.
Hook your audience early: The first 30 seconds matter—grab attention fast.
Consistency is currency: Release episodes on a regular schedule (weekly or biweekly is ideal).
Quality counts: Invest in good audio and editing—it builds trust and keeps listeners.
2. Leverage SEO
Use searchable episode titles, descriptions, and show notes.
Submit your podcast to all major directories (Spotify, Apple, YouTube, etc.).
Include transcriptions on your website or blog for better search visibility.
3. Promote on Multiple Channels
Share audiograms, reels, and clips on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube Shorts.
Post episode quotes and behind-the-scenes content.
Leverage email newsletters and your website to drive traffic.
Use hashtags and SEO keywords for discoverability.
4. Engage With Your Audience
End each episode with a call-to-action (subscribe, leave a review, DM you, etc.).
Respond to comments and DMs; ask for feedback and topic suggestions.
Build a community—Discord, Facebook group, or Patreon for deeper connection.
5. Collaborate Intentionally
Bring on guests with established audiences and cross-promote.
Do podcast swaps (you guest on theirs, they guest on yours).
Shout out other shows and tag them—it builds goodwill and exposure.
6. Run Targeted Ads
Promote your best episodes on Instagram, YouTube, or podcast apps like Overcast.
Retarget visitors with Facebook or Google Ads to convert interest into listens.
7. Track Analytics & Refine
Use tools like Podbean, Spotify for Podcasters, or Apple Podcasts Connect to monitor:
Listener drop-off points
Demographics
Popular episodes
Bonus Tip: Make Your Podcast a Movement
Follow the David Shands model—don't just create content, create culture. Host live events, build community, and make your show the epicenter of a lifestyle or niche.
For more podcast education and live training, visit Podcast Summit.