50 Podcasting Tips in 15 Minutes by Pat Flynn

Introduction

• Pat Flynn, podcasting for 12-13 years.
• 50 tips for podcasting.

Tips

Mention Other Podcasts

• Increases visibility through related podcasts on Apple.
• Gains new listeners even without being a guest.

Podcast Length

• Should be as long as necessary to deliver value.

Artwork

• Critical for first impressions.
• Make sure it looks good even on small screens (mobile optimization).

Grow Through Guest Appearances

• Be a guest on other podcasts.
• Easier for listeners to find you; endorsed by the host.

Start with Known Contacts

• Begin guest appearances with people you know.
• For unknown podcasters, get an introduction.

Tell Stories

• Stories are memorable and shareable.

Invest in a Quality Microphone

• Audio quality is paramount.
• Recommendations range from affordable to high-end microphones.
• Speak at a fist-length from the mic for best sound.

Use a Shock Mount

• Improves audio by reducing vibrations.

Get a Mic Flag

• Adds branding and professionalism, particularly for video podcasts.

Batch Process Episodes

• Record multiple episodes in one session.
• Reduces stress and improves content management.

Plan Ahead

• Schedule time to plan episode content.
• Enhances production efficiency.

Editing

• Don’t remove too many mistakes; keep it natural.

Make Guests Comfortable

• Make them feel at ease before recording.
• Use a conversational tone.

Avoid Zoom for Remote Interviews

• Provides compressed audio.
• Use better platforms like squadcast.fm.

Analyze Related Podcasts

• Discover similar podcasts for collaboration opportunities.
• Find guest podcasting opportunities.

Pay Attention to Analytics

• Monitor download trends and episode-specific downloads.
• Look at retention graphs for drop-off points.

Burst Strategy

• Publish multiple episodes in a short period for higher downloads and calls to action.

Visuals on Website

• Post referenced visuals on your site to drive traffic.
• Ease of access for listeners.

Limit Mentions of Links

• Keep it to one or two easy-to-remember links.

Build an Email List

• Direct engagement with listeners.
• Use lead magnets.

Monthly Listener Conversations

• Gain insights and tailor content accordingly.

Handling Breaks

• Don’t make a big deal; provide value immediately upon return.

Pivoting is OK

• Adjust show direction, name, or artwork if needed.

Subscribers are Human

• Value even small audiences; imagine them as a real gathering.

Selling on Podcasts

• Use client transformation stories to highlight products.

Relatable Guests

• Focus on guests who are relatable, not just celebrities.

Bring a Microphone to Events

• Capture impromptu conversations.

Travel Recording Options

• Recommendations include Zoom H6n and Rode SmartLav.

Recording at Home

• Use a tool like Rodecaster Pro for high-quality audio and multiple inputs.

Record Video Versions

• Allows for dual use; audio for podcasts, video for platforms like YouTube.

Quick Solutions for Last-Minute Interviews

• Collaborate with friends or colleagues for faster setups.

Go Deeper in Interviews

• Follow up on answers for more insightful content.

Solo Podcasting Tips

• Focus on the desired outcome and work backward.

Avoid Full Scripts

• Script intro/hooks but keep the rest conversational.

Be Yourself

• Authenticity is your unique advantage.

Create a Community

• Use tools like Circle for listener interactions.

Recap Episodes

• Ideal for end-of-year summaries or category-specific recaps.

Engage Communities Naturally

• Become part of forums/groups before sharing podcast links.
• Feature forum owners as guests to get endorsed.

Avoid Comparisons

• Focus on your growth rather than comparing with others.

Social Media Sharing

• Link to your website or use Linktree for easier access.

Create Strong Hooks

• Offer compelling reasons for listeners to stay through the episode.

Use Personal Thank-You Videos

• Engages and builds super fans when listeners respond to social media posts.

Salvage Poor Interviews

• Edit useful clips and add your own commentary for engaging episodes.

Listicle Episodes

• People love lists; use storytelling to enhance.

Music Licensing

• Use royalty-free or custom-made music to avoid legal issues.

Have Fun

• Enjoy the process and the connections you make.

Quick Episode Endings

• Avoid long summaries; keep listeners engaged till the end.