Sarah Li-Cain: Building a Profitable Freelance and Podcasting Career

Send us a textStep into the world of hacking and podcasting with Jack Rhysider, host of the acclaimed Darknet Diaries. This episode's discussions cover everything from maintaining anonymity online, the art of crafting impactful stories, and the subtle distinctions between hacking and criminal activity. Jack not only relays his experiences with online doxxing and a brush with Hollywood, but also shares valuable insights into the power of connecting with audiences and the importance of celebrating successes. We navigate the nuances of podcast growth, audience engagement, and content creation and monetization, equipping you with plenty of strategies to enrich your podcasting journey.Jack also extends his advice to beginning podcasters on maintaining realistic expectations and the benefits of reinvesting in their podcasts.Subscribe to Buzzsprout Conversations on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app. Do you know somebody we should interview on Buzzzsprout Conversations? Reach out on Twitter.

Send us a textIn this video, I interview Jordan Blair from Dreamful Bedtime Stories about how her podcast skyrocketed to the top 1% globally, thanks to the invaluable input and support from an engaged audience.Jordan shares strategies for not only gathering feedback but leveraging it to continually enhance the show's content. She also goes behind the scenes of producing a story-telling podcast, from hand-picking enchanting tales to scoring free music for your podcast.Subscribe to Buzzsprout Conversations on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app. Do you know somebody we should interview on Buzzzsprout Conversations? Reach out on Twitter.

Send us a textIn this episode, I am joined by Sarah Li-Cain, who has built a successful career in podcasting and freelancing. And you might recognize her from some of the videos on the Buzzsprout YouTube Channel! Sarah shares how she transitioned from a full-time teaching role in China to a freelancer in the US. She shares the discipline and commitment that have been pivotal in her success as a freelance writer and podcaster. As well as the challenges she faced - juggling parental responsibilities and making her side hustle work. Sarah leaves us with valuable nuggets on content repurposing and podcasting in business. She explains how to maximize the potential of each platform, providing tips on securing podcasting clients as brands increasingly enter this space. Overcoming fear when launching a podcast and the necessity of a solid strategy in content creation are also discussed. Regardless of where you are in your freelance career, Sarah's experiences and advice offer valuable insights.Subscribe to Buzzsprout Conversations on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app. Do you know somebody we should interview on Buzzzsprout Conversations? Reach out on Twitter.

Send us a textIn this exciting episode, I had the incredible honor of sitting down with the legendary Adam Curry, a.k.a. the 'Podfather'. From his early days in pirate radio to then becoming an MTV VJ, and revolutionizing the way we consume media, Adam's journey has been nothing short of fascinating.The interview begins with a glimpse into Adam's appearance on the Joe Rogan Experience, where he shares some behind-the-scenes stories and insights. Then, we delve into his roots, discovering how he first learned the art of broadcasting audio and how it eventually led him to start a pirate radio station!Adam takes us back to the moment he landed his first job in radio and the invaluable lessons he learned from operating a radio show. One thing that becomes clear throughout the interview is how essential feedback is, and how live recordings played a pivotal role in shaping his approach to content creation.We explore the power of conversation in podcasting and how it creates an intimate connection with the audience, as well as how to find a good co-host. Then Adam shares some valuable advice on how to gauge your podcast's success and find fulfillment in your creative endeavors.Adam also explains the value-4-value approach to podcast funding, which challenges traditional advertising models and fosters a deeper connection between creators and their audience. He also talks about how initiatives like Podcasting 2.0 and the Podcast index empower content creators and revolutionize the podcasting space.Subscribe to Buzzsprout Conversations on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app. Do you know somebody we should interview on Buzzzsprout Conversations? Reach out on Twitter.

Send us a textWhat if you could harness the power of podcasting to connect with a diverse audience, share your passions, and even open doors to new opportunities? Badr Milligan, the engaging host of the Short Box podcast and founder of Jax Podcast Roushee Night, is here to show us how it's done. Milligan's decade-long journey in podcasting is a treasure trove of insights and experiences that he readily shares, from the evolution of podcasting technology to the art of prepping and outlining for conversation podcasts.Join us as we explore Milligan's unique promotional strategies that are deeply influenced by his love for music and hip hop. Discover the impact of physical flyers and street teams, and how they contributed to the success of his podcast, both at home and abroad. We also discuss his daring experiments with live shows and using platforms like TikTok, Reels, and YouTube Shorts. Milligan's pragmatic yet creative approach to marketing his podcasts is sure to inspire and educate budding podcasters.But it's not all about the tech and tactics, Milligan's success story also illuminates the importance of creating value for the audience, and building trust with them. We delve into the monetization of podcasts, looking at how he launched a Patreon and expanded his network. This episode also features a riveting discussion with Adam Curry on the 'value for value' business model, emphasizing the importance of trust and respect towards your audience. So, tune in for an inspiring and informative episode that reveals what lies beyond the mic in the world of podcasting.Subscribe to Buzzsprout Conversations on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app. Do you know somebody we should interview on Buzzzsprout Conversations? Reach out on Twitter.

Send us a textEver wonder what it takes to leave the comforts of a steady day job and plunge into the unpredictable world of online content creation? Meet Tom Buck – a seasoned podcaster, successful YouTuber, and, in his previous incarnation, a digital media teacher – who made this exact transition. Join us as we navigate the story of his transition from the classroom to the digital sphere, the multiple income streams that keep his creative engine running, and the often-underestimated hurdles of starting anew in unfamiliar territory.From the importance of embracing authenticity and having the right gear, to the art of tackling excuses, we delve into the intricate world of content creation. Hear straight from Tom how he broke free from the confines of societal norms, embraced his true self, and found his voice as a creator. Discover how he overcame the self-imposed limitations of gear and realized that it's not about having the best equipment, but rather about making the best use of what you have. The conversation uncovers the truth about gear as a disguise for the discomfort that comes with content creation.Beyond the creative journey, we also venture into the tricky landscape of monetizing content while staying true to your craft. Tom shares his insights on the benefits of sponsored videos, creating online courses, building supporter communities, and leveraging affiliate marketing. You'll hear the remarkable story of how YouTube's algorithm served as the matchmaker between Tom and his wife and why being uniquely 'you' is the magic ingredient for attracting the right audience. We wrap up with a crucial reminder of the importance of taking the first step in your creative journey, regardless of your gear or experience level. Because the best time to start is now.Tom Buck's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tombuckCourses: https://himynameistom.com/coursesThe Enthusiasm Project: https://enthusiasmproject.buzzsprout.com/Subscribe to Buzzsprout Conversations on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app. Do you know somebody we should interview on Buzzzsprout Conversations? Reach out on Twitter.

Send us a text0:00 Introduction0:25 How Arielle got started in podcasts0:50 Founding Earbuds1:54 Why is marketing important for podcasters?3:32 Identifying your podcast's audience  - What We Talk About When We Talk About Podcasts by Tom Webster: https://soundsprofitable.com/guide-and-article/what-we-talk-about-when-we-talk-about-podcasts/5:45 What makes a show recommendable?7:30 How do you hook new listeners?  - Jordan Harbinger Starter Packs: https://www.jordanharbinger.com/starterpacks/10:01 How to grow your podcast13:18 Getting featured in podcasting apps  - Counter Programming: https://shiraandarielle.buzzsprout.com/  - Get featured on Apple Podcasts: https://www.buzzsprout.com/blog/how-to-get-your-podcast-featured-in-itunes-new-and-noteworthy  - Get featured on Spotify: https://airtable.com/shrd0oasoTLijGglG18:14 Benefits of having a podcast trailer  - Trailer Park: The Podcast Trailer Podcast https://pod.link/166396504420:41 How to make a great podcast trailer  - Buzzsprout Ads: https://www.buzzsprout.com/ads22:16 Podcast Ratings & Reviews24:59 Why Arielle loves Podcast Newsletters27:32 Platform Risk  - Enshitification of the Web: https://pluralistic.net/2023/01/21/potemkin-ai/#hey-guys30:13 Promoting a podcast with social media36:00 "I have a closing remark"  - Adopt a Listener: https://tinkmedia.co/adoptSubscribe to Buzzsprout Conversations on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app. Do you know somebody we should interview on Buzzzsprout Conversations? Reach out on Twitter.

Send us a textIn this video, we interview Ross, host of the Smells Like Human podcast. We discuss his process for using Buzzsprout Ads, how he achieved 7,000 monthly podcast downloads, and why feedback is essential for podcast success. If you want to learn how to boost your podcast downloads and reach a wider audience, this video is a must-watch!Smells Like Humans is a weekly podcast that brings a humorous perspective to the quirky and curious aspects of human behavior. Check them out here: https://www.smellslikehumanspodcast.com/====== Time Stamps ======0:00-6:40 - Smells Like Humans Podcast 6:40-9:37 - Setting Podcast goals9:37-12:12 - How Ross grew his podcast 12:12-14:48 - Tips for creating a podcast promo 14:48-19:18 - Benefits of using Buzzsprout Ads 19:18-25:02 - Tips for indie podcasters 25:02-27:04 - Why feedback is important for podcastsSubscribe to Buzzsprout Conversations on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app. Do you know somebody we should interview on Buzzzsprout Conversations? Reach out on Twitter.

Send us a textFrancesca Amber hosts the Law of Attraction Changed My Life podcast, the UK’s number-one podcast for self-improvement. In this interview, you'll hear about Francesca's podcasting journey, the lessons she learned along the way, and her monetization tips as a top earner using Buzzsprout Ads.Subscribe to Buzzsprout Conversations on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app. Do you know somebody we should interview on Buzzzsprout Conversations? Reach out on Twitter.

Send us a textWhat does it take to transition from a stay-at-home mom to a successful media mogul? Tune in to our riveting conversation with Twila Dang, the dynamo behind Matriarch Digital Media, who fearlessly forged her own path in the podcasting industry. Her candid tales of resilience, determination, and the power of networking are bound to inspire. Discover how Twila recognized her potential, leveraged her skills, and created a thriving digital media company that doesn't shy away from empowering discussions about women's health and identity.Twila's journey is not just about personal growth. It's also about creating content that strikes a chord with its audience. Matriarch Digital Media, with its flagship shows Gynacast and Endocast, has become a beacon of empowerment and a safe haven for women to discuss topics often swept under the rug. Twila's third podcast 'Me Before Mom' steps up to remind mothers of their individual identities beyond motherhood. Learn how Twila has mastered the art of understanding her audience's needs and navigated the intricate world of contracts and intellectual property rights.Venture into the future with Twila as she shares her insights on the evolution of podcasting and its intersection with traditional radio. Her emphasis on the need to protect your intellectual property, create your own resources, and retain control of your content is a call to action for aspiring podcasters. We wrap up our conversation on the importance of a dynamic content library and understanding the metrics behind your podcast downloads. So, plug in your headphones and get ready for a journey that will leave you motivated to chase your dreams, empower others, and leave your unique mark in the world of media!Twila Dang, founder of Matriarch Digital Media, shares her journey of transitioning from radio to podcasting, why it's important to dream big, and some things you should know before joining a podcast network.Check out Matriarch Digital Media and follow Twila on TwitterSubscribe to Buzzsprout Conversations on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app. Do you know somebody we should interview on Buzzzsprout Conversations? Reach out on Twitter.