Why spending big money on ads, chasing viral fame, or following every new platform isn't the answer (and what really builds a podcast audience that matters) in this episode of Big Podcast Playbook ...
Big Ideas in This Episode
Luck, ads, or fame: podcast growth myths exposed
Viral moments: why fame doesn't equal loyalty
$15,000 spent, only 178 downloads ... now what?
Famous parents, forgotten children
Coaches promising millions
Build longing: make a podcast worth missing
Small hinges, big doors
Why You Should Listen
How podcasters burn thousands on ads
Why "famous" is worthless (and what really drives listener obsession)
The jaw-dropping viral video contract
The real reason coaches push "the basics" (and why the lazy are secretly drawn to them)
When $15,000 in ads only gets you 178 listeners
How podcast consultants charge $7500
The seductive power of a giant antenna (and why you'll never buy your way to the top)
What social media "gurus" won't tell you about YouTube, TikTok, Instagram and podcast growth
Why unlocking listener loyalty unleashes total control over your audience (and their wallets)
The envy-fueled drama behind working with "competitors" (and why it's no real competition)
How churches and religious groups quietly dominate media ... and the secrets you can steal
What Fox News-style audience swapping reveals for hungry podcasters
The lazy podcaster's shortcut: Think you can survive without changing? Think again
How "air checks" from the pros create radio envy ... and a path to dominating your niche
Why the "small hinges, big doors" formula can make power, greed, and loyalty swing YOUR way
Episode Timestamps
[00:02] The letter from a frustrated podcaster: Is there really very little you can do to grow a show unless you're lucky or famous?
[06:05] "Viral moments won't get you loyal listeners" ... the Nashville Hawk Tuah girl story and the myth of overnight success
[07:18] Spending $15,000 on ads for 178 downloads per day: Is audience growth really for sale?
[09:16] Why even the daughter of the King of Rock and Roll can't leverage fame into real influence ... and what that teaches us about podcasting
[13:16] The hard truth about religious and niche shows: why your topic might get you ignored no matter how much you spend
[15:06] The $4000 guitar mistake: Why buying the fanciest tools won't make your podcast sing if you skip this one thing
[22:24] The secret to becoming a better podcaster that most will never try ... what SiriusXM jocks do that you probably don't
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