Why Feedback and Self-Review Are Essential for Podcast Growth

Today I’m digging into the importance of honest self-review and seeking feedback from your listeners to make your show even better. Inspired by an interview I heard with Geddy Lee of Rush by Rick Biato, I’ll share how even the pros take time to reflect on their work and look for ways to improve. I’ll talk about why it’s crucial to revisit your older episodes, ask your audience the right questions, and be open to constructive criticism, even if it stings a little. My goal is to help you move beyond just being “good enough” and become someone’s favorite. Let’s get started on how you can make every episode better than the last!You Need Fresh EarsGeddy talks about how when you're making the music, you're not listening to the whole song. This is true of podcasters. We are paying to the details, but not the whole episode. We aren't paying attention to the flow, or the tease, or any other ingredients that might be missing.We may have been up against a deadline, and decided to "just push publish" well now with some time between the date it was published and the current date, you may hear with a new mindset that sees way you could improve.Get CreativeThe beauty of podcasting is it's YOUR SHOW. You can do whatever you want. You may lose some of your audience, but you might also gain a whole lot more. If you want to try something, try it.Only One Way To Find OutThere is only one way to know if it will work. Saturday Night Live does a dress rehearsal and if that audience doesn't laugh (even if all the writers thought it was great) it doesn't make it to the show. The content is shaped by feedback.Get Some Honest FriendsI've worked with clients and I'll spot some pretty easy tings to fix to improve their show, and they will say "Oh man, my friends said it was amazing." That doesn't mean the show wasn't good, but "amazing" may be a stretch.Eventually Rush Found Their AudienceThe band Rush was about to lose their record deal. They could have listened to the record label and tried to make hits. Instead they followed their guy, and made a very experimental record called 2112. Then the audience heard it, and they told a friend, who told a friend. That audience lead to them being able to do whatever they wanted for the rest of their careers. This wouldn't have happened without some experimentation and feedback from their fans.Need Help With Your Show?I have a podcast review service currently called "Podcast Hot Seat" and you can get your episode and/or website review to let you know what you're doing right (so you can do more of it) and what might need some tweaking.Let the passion to serve your audience outweigh your fear of feedback. Feedback is the breakfast of champions. Do what others are too afraid to do, and you will stand yards ahead of them.I'm here to help.Takeaways:When creating podcast content, regularly review your old episodes to find areas for improvement.Engaging your audience through surveys can reveal what they truly want from your show.Listening back to your own recordings helps you notice things you might have missed during the live recording.Don't be afraid of constructive feedback; it's essential for growing your podcast and serving your audience better.Just like bands need to evaluate their live performances, podcasters should do the same to enhance their shows.Your podcast should resonate with listeners, not just exist because there's nothing else available.More Links Mentioned In the ShowJoin the School of PodcastingRick Beato Interview Geddy Lee of RushMentioned in this episode:Unlock Exclusive Insights: Subscribe to 'Podcasting Observations' Newsletter!Get insights into the world of podcasting like never before with "Podcasting Observations," your go-to source for trends, tips, and transformative insights tailored just for podcasters. Each issue of our newsletter offers a glimpse into what's shaping the podcast landscape, with actionable advice to boost your podcasting journey. You also get a glimpse "behind the scenes" and bonus content from the School of Podcasting. Go to www.podcastingobservations.comPodcasting ObservationsThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

I Can't Tell What Is Working!When you just promote your podcast everywhere, it's hard to tell what is working. One way that makes it easy to see what's working is to track the links you share. Newsletters like Kit, Beehiz, Mailerlite enable you to see what is getting clicked on. I use Fathom stats on my website so I can see where my traffic is coming from (and enables to see where I get more traffic from my newsletter than social media). This content may contain affiliate links, meaning I earn a small commission if you purchase through these links at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products or services I trust and believe will provide value to you. Thank you for your support!Resources MentionedSwitchy Link TrackerWhispr FlowSchool of PodcastingWhat is A Link Shortener/Tracker?There are tools like bit.com but my favorite is called Switchy (as you are switching out links). It does a ton of stuff:Creates tracking links for things you shareMakes it easy to organize you data so you can see what is workingMakes trackable QR codes (which I use in my slides when I speak)Can make a "Linktree" type website (all with trackable links)It's only $39 for a lifetime deal at App SumoTakeaways:Starting a podcast takes more time than you think, especially at the beginning.Using tools like Switchy helps track what works for your podcast and what doesn’t.Exercise can do wonders, like biking, which also relates to consistency in podcasting.Measuring your efforts in podcasting allows you to focus on what actually brings in listeners.Changing multiple things at once in your podcast can confuse results, stick to one at a time.Your newsletter might outperform social media for traffic, so don’t overlook it.Mentioned in this episode:Your Voice is Your LegacyYou have lived things that need to be heard. You can help other people, and I'm here to help. Don't let your story die within you, release your legacy today and start your podcast. I've helped hundreds (thousands?) of podcasters and I can help you. It's time to do it.School of PodcastingThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

My Podcast is Great, but It's Not GrowingEver feel like you’re pouring your soul into your podcast and the audience just isn’t showing up? Yeah, me too. In this episode, we tackle that painful realization that sometimes, the problem isn’t with the promotion, but with the content itself. We take a hard look at what happens when listeners start dropping off like flies. Is it that they’re just not your target audience? Or maybe, just maybe, your content isn't hitting the mark?Take It Outside of PodcastingWe draw some hilarious parallels between podcasting and other forms of media – like writing a book or even making a movie – because when you take it out of the podcasting bubble, things start to look a lot clearer.The Fear of FeedbackWe also discuss the absolute necessity of getting feedback from your audience and how terrifying that can be. But hey, if you’re not asking, you’ll never know what’s working and what’s not. So, buckle up as we dissect the ups and downs of podcasting, and how a little feedback can turn your ship around. You’ll leave this episode ready to engage with your listeners like never before!Takeaways:Podcasting advice sometimes makes more sense when you think outside of the podcasting bubble.Don't just assume your content is great; ask your audience what they really think.If your audience isn't coming back, maybe your content isn't hitting the mark anymore.Promoting isn't the only solution; feedback from listeners can be the real game changer.Taking a step back and comparing your podcast to books or films can clarify your approach.Remember, it’s not about the numbers; it’s about resonating with your true audience.Podcasting ObservationsSchool of PodcastingMentioned in this episode:Join the School of Podcasting CommunityUnlock your podcasting potential with the School of Podcasting, where your voice takes center stage. Whether you're a beginner eager to launch your first show or an experienced podcaster looking to refine your craft, our resources and supportive community are here to guide you every step of the way. I have expertly crafted courses on everything from choosing the right equipment to mastering audience engagement, and enjoy personalized coaching that tailors success strategies to what YOU need. Join a vibrant network of fellow creators dedicated to sharing knowledge and inspiring growth. Elevate your podcast to new heights—your journey starts hereSchool of PodcastingThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Why Am I Podcasting Again?Have you ever stopped and wondered if you're podcasting for the right reasons?Sometimes it can feel like we're shouting into the void while the rest of our lives demand our attention. Between work, family, and everything else competing for our time, it's easy to look at your podcast and wonder if it's still worth the effort.When Life Gets in the WayIn this episode, I talk about the challenge of keeping your podcast momentum alive when life gets messy. Not every season of podcasting is exciting. Sometimes you're tired, overwhelmed, or simply questioning whether the time you're investing is paying off.Those moments happen to all of us, and they often force us to reevaluate why we started podcasting in the first place.The Passion vs. Profit QuestionOne conversation really stood out to me. I spoke with a client who had been podcasting for four years but had never seriously considered how to monetize their show. Their goal was simply to share helpful content and make a positive impact.But after four years, they started asking a different question: "Is this still enough?"That question opened the door to a deeper discussion about goals, expectations, and what success actually looks like.Sometimes the Goal Needs to ChangeOne of the biggest lessons from this conversation is that it's okay for your goals to evolve.Maybe you started podcasting as a hobby. Maybe you wanted to build a community, grow your business, or simply have meaningful conversations. As your circumstances change, your reasons for podcasting can change too.A fresh perspective can reignite your enthusiasm and help you see opportunities you may have overlooked.Finding New Energy for Your PodcastIf you've been feeling stuck, frustrated, or uncertain about your podcast's future, this episode is a reminder that you're not alone. Sometimes the solution isn't quitting. Sometimes it's simply redefining what you're trying to accomplish.By revisiting your goals and being honest about what you want from your podcast, you may discover a new sense of purpose that makes the journey exciting again.Keep This in Mind When Monetizing Your ShowAs someone who wrote a book about making money with your podcast, you need to keep in mind you don't monetize a podcast, you monetize audience (and often yours is too small as 3% of your audience will take action). Final ThoughtsPodcasting today can feel overwhelming. There are endless platforms, constant changes, and enough advertisements to make anyone question their sanity. But when you reconnect with your "why," the path forward often becomes much clearer.If you've ever wondered whether your podcast is still serving you—or whether you're serving your podcast—this episode is for you.Takeaways:Babies are like the ultimate podcasting nemesis, demanding all your attention and time.Monetizing your podcast can feel like a nasty uphill battle, trust me on that one.If you're not making money, don't lose sight of the joy your podcast brings you.Changing your goals can light a fire under you and bring back that energy and enthusiasm.Links referenced in this episode:schoolofpodcasting.comThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Are you eager to promote your podcast but worried about breaking the rules in online groups? In this episode of "Your Podcast Consultant," I share practical advice on how to approach forums, Facebook groups, and Reddit communities the right way. Drawing from my own stories and hard-earned lessons, I explain why simple self-promotion often leads to bans—and what you can do instead to build genuine connections and grow your audience. Whether you're just starting out or looking to expand your reach, this episode is packed with small lessons that deliver big value for every podcaster.Takeaways:When promoting our podcast, we often make rookie mistakes that come back to bite us later.Self promotion in forums usually gets you banned, like, seriously, just don't do it.Always check the forum rules before posting about your podcast, or you'll regret it.Making friends before promoting your podcast can actually help you gain listeners and avoid bans.Consider reaching out to moderators first; they might even want to join your podcast.If you need help growing your podcast, there are plenty of resources available for you.Links referenced in this episode:schoolofpodcastingpodmatchpodcastguestsredditfacebookguestexchangeThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

In this episode, I share some insights from the world of podcast interviews, sharing surprising experiences from a marathon of guest appearances on brand-new shows. Maybe Not Use AI ResearchDiscover the pitfalls of relying too heavily on AI-generated questions, the importance of audio quality, and why genuine research and thoughtful preparation make interviews truly valuable. Whether you're a podcasting newbie or looking to sharpen your hosting skills, I've got some practical advice and candid insights to help you create interviews that stand out, and get shared.Takeaways:Using AI for podcasting is all about how good your prompts are, so don't skimp on that.New podcasters often have terrible audio quality, just buy a decent microphone already.If you're interviewing someone, do your homework and ask unique questions, please.Podcasters need to realize that repetitive questions make for boring interviews, spice it up!When you have better audio than your guest, it’s time to reconsider your setup, trust me.Researching your guest before the interview is not crazy prep, it's called being a pro.Mentioned in This EpisodePodmatchPodcast GuestsSamson Q2U MicrophoneThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

How is this still happening?You ever have one of those moments where you see something so ridiculous you can’t help but roll your eyes? That’s basically the theme of this episode. I’m talking about the world of podcasting and, honestly, it’s kind of wild. It’s 2026, and people are still posting “New episode out! (and that's it)” on social media like that’s some kind of marketing strategy. Seriously?Yes, It's Better Than Nothing...In this episode, I talk about why podcasters need to stop doing the bare minimum when promoting their shows. If you’re going to post on social media, at least make it interesting. Lead with a question. Share a bold statement. Give people a reason to stop scrolling and pay attention. Don’t just announce your existence, do something to spark curiosity.Use a HookI also dig into the importance of using hooks when sharing episodes. In today’s world of endless content, you need something that grabs attention immediately. Whether it’s a thought-provoking question, a surprising opinion, or a compelling claim, the goal is to invite people into a conversation, not just tell them your episode exists.There is No Excuse for "New Episode Out"And honestly, with all the AI tools available now, there’s really no excuse for lazy promotional posts anymore. AI can help you come up with stronger captions, better hooks, and more engaging content in seconds. If your entire strategy is still “new episode out,” it might be time to rethink things.Throughout the episode, I share practical tips on how to create social posts that actually connect with your audience and make people want to listen. I also invite listeners to join the School of Podcasting community, where we do listener parties, personal coaching, and help podcasters grow their shows in smarter ways.If you’re serious about podcasting and want your marketing to stand out, this episode is your reminder to stop being basic and start being intentional. Podcast promotion doesn’t have to be boring — and honestly, it shouldn’t be.Takeaways:In this episode, we discuss how just saying 'new episode out' is the laziest way to promote your podcast, so let's spice it up!Every podcaster should lead with a hook that actually grabs attention, otherwise, what's the point of even posting?We emphasize the importance of creating engaging social media posts instead of the bland standard phrases that nobody cares about.It's shocking to see how many people still use outdated promotional tactics like 'find me wherever you find your podcasts' – just stop it already!If you want your episode to stand out, it needs a compelling claim or question that makes people want to listen and engage.Utilizing AI tools can help you generate better social media content than the typical 'new episode out' post, so why not give it a shot?This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Podcast promotion breaks down to this:Identify who your audience isGo to where they are (online and offline)Make friends with themTell them about your showDon't Overthink itSo a person on Reddit mentioned they wanted to grow their podcast about horror movies.Let's see.... where could I find a bunch of people who like horror movies... if only there was a place where people who like horror MOVIES go. If only......Go to Where They AreSo go to the movie cineplex, if you want to go all out have a t-shirt made for you with your logo and URL on the shirt (see Stickermule), and have some business cards made with your logo and website address, and a QR code (I use switchy for that. It not only makes QR code and a whole lot more but I can track how many times that QR code was used).Then as people are entering the building ask them, "Are you hear to see (scary movie title)?" and if they say "Yes," then give them a card and say "I do a podcast for people just like you."ExpectationsYes, some will throw the card away. Some will put it in their pocket. Other will be bored sitting through endless advertisements waiting for the movies to start and will point their phone at the QR code (which takes them to my follow page).Keep in mind you build you audience one person at a time.And often that one person hangs out with other people who also like what they like, and word of mouth starts to grow your show. Now, word of mouth is effective. We know it is. It ranks high in all the ways to promote your podcast, but we also know it is slow. If you are looking for a giant switch to give you 30,000 downloads an episode, that just doesn't happen.The More You Do It The better You Get At itI know for me, selling my book, Profit From Your Podcast, in person is always a little uncomfortable, but the more I did it, the better I got at it and the more books I soldDo You Need Help Growing Your Podcast?If you need help growing your show, come visit me at schoolofpodcasting.com. One of the features we have there are listener parties where a group of us will get together and you get to watch us listen to your show. This way you can see if we laugh when we're supposed to laugh and cry when we're supposed to cry. If it's not working, you'll know immediately and it's time to go back and do some basic editing. Check it out at schoolofpodcasting.com.Mentioned In This EpisodeStickermule (T-shirts and more)Canva (business Cards)Design Crowd (crowd source your business card or t-shirt design)Switchy (QR codes that are trackable)This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

July 4th was supposed to be a festive day filled with fireworks, but instead, it turned into a disaster for me.Picture this: I’m all set to enjoy the show, but as I step out, the sky starts drizzling. Naturally, I whip out my phone to scroll through social media, because who doesn’t love seeing what everyone else is up to while ignoring the world around them?Fast forward a few moments, and bam! My foot hits an uneven sidewalk, my phone goes flying, and I’m face-first in the concrete. My knees did not fare well. Everyone around me thinks it’s a scene from a slapstick comedy, and I’m just trying to play it cool, you know?But here’s the kicker: this little escapade has everything to do with podcasting. Yeah, you heard me right. Looking stupid while starting a podcast? It’s practically a rite of passage. We’ll dive into how to embrace that awkwardness and turn it into something valuable. So, buckle up; it’s going to be a wild ride!We've Looked Stupid BeforeI live near Cleveland Ohio and if I go into a room of 30 adults and scream, "Here we go brownies here were go!" they will answer with RUFF RUFF! Grown adulst will bark like a dog.Also being Ohio means you must stand and spell your state when someone plays the song Louie Louie.My favorite is the "Chicken Dance" at weddings how this tradition of some demonic polka got started I will never know, but again everyone is willing to look stupid.When you venture into podcasting one of two things will happen. You will have a successful show that you love doing, you'll have that story about the time you started a podcast.I Can HelpTakeaways:So, if you're thinking about starting a podcast, brace yourself, because looking stupid is basically part of the package.People worry too much about looking dumb on a podcast; trust me, we all do it sometimes, and it’s totally fine.You can learn from your own mistakes, but learning from others is even better, so listen up, folks.In the end, podcasting is about having fun and sharing stories, not about being perfect.When you finally start your podcast, remember: you might end up with a great show or a hilarious story about your failed attempts.If you want to avoid looking stupid, just don’t do stupid stuff, but let’s be real, we all mess up sometimes.Links referenced in this episode:schoolofpodcasting.comThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

I've been researching the current challenges creators are facing on YouTube, particularly with demonetization issues. I share my thoughts on why YouTube, as great as it is for discovery and stats, can be risky for creators—especially those who rely on it for income.I spotlight the story of Steven song, a talented animator who invested hundreds of thousands of dollars and over a decade into his channel, only to be demonetized without warning. You’ll hear how the lack of human customer support at YouTube is affecting creators’ mental health, and why relying solely on YouTube revenue might not be the best strategy.All Your Eggs in One BasketI talk about the importance of diversifying your income streams and caution against tying essential expenses to unpredictable YouTube payouts. I also offer some practical advice on making your content more discoverable, like focusing on great episode titles and eye-catching thumbnails, while reminding you that YouTube’s algorithm can be both a blessing and a curse.If you’re thinking about starting a video or audio podcast, or simply want to learn about the realities of growing on YouTube in today’s landscape, this episode gives you valuable insights and honest advice from my years in the industry.Ready to take your podcast to the next level? Visit schoolofpodcasting.com and use the coupon code “listener” for a special deal. I look forward to helping you succeed!The secret reasons Youtube is demonetizing channels (video)I got demonetized it's over. (video)This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy