How To Start, Grow and Monetise Your Podcast

Pod School
How To Start, Grow and Monetise Your Podcast

How To Start, Grow, and Monetise Your Podcast with James Burtt & Alex Chisnall Turn your podcast idea into an impactful brand and income stream! Join podcast experts James and Alex—who have launched 400+ top-charting podcasts—as they share practical and tactical steps to build, grow, and monetise your show. Each episode delivers actionable tips on podcast equipment, content strategy, audience growth, and brand monetisation to help you thrive in podcasting. Perfect for entrepreneurs, content creators, and anyone ready to amplify their voice, this is your weekly guide to profitable podcasting. Join the free Pod School community for exclusive resources, trainings, and support. Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, Amazon Music, and many more.

  1. 6 DAYS AGO

    How We Launched a Niche Podcast to #1 in Two Countries

    In this episode of How to Start, Grow, and Monetise Your Podcast, James Burtt and Alex Chisnall break down their recent podcast launch, which achieved the #1 spot in two countries and #2 in the UK. With just under 1000 downloads, 2000 YouTube views, and a 40% click-through rate to their Pod School platform, they reveal the strategies behind their success.  From leveraging niche content and creating engaging promotional assets to using platforms like Chartable for analytics, this episode provides actionable insights for aspiring and experienced podcasters. Learn how they turned a podcast into a content machine that drives engagement, generates revenue, and expands global reach.  Whether you're planning your first podcast or scaling an existing one, this episode delivers essential tips for maximising impact. This show is sponsored by Pod School - your hub for information, education and expert support on starting, growing, scaling, monetizing and optimising your podcast to generate more reach, more impact and more revenue What You'll Learn in This Episode: How a niche podcast can achieve global rankings. The role of categories and subcategories in podcast discoverability. Why focusing on engagement is more critical than sheer download numbers. Strategies to integrate your podcast with other platforms like YouTube and TikTok. How to use analytics tools like Chartable and TinyURL for smarter podcast growth. Key Takeaways: Consistency is key: A clear content strategy and actionable goals are essential. Niche podcasts can thrive: Depth over breadth when targeting your audience. Multi-platform reach matters: Use short-form content to drive long-form engagement. Data-driven decisions: Leverage click-through rates and rankings to refine your strategy. Monetisation pathways: Align your podcast goals with products or services to maximize ROI. Recommended Tools & Resources: Chartable: For tracking podcast reviews and rankings across multiple countries. TinyURL: To measure click-through rates and track promotional links. Pod School: A community and resource platform for podcasters at all stages. YouTube Shorts & TikTok: To create and share short-form promotional content. Otter.ai: For transcription and content repurposing. Join the Conversation: If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow podcaster who’s looking to grow their revenue. For more resources and expert advice, join the free Pod School community – the ultimate hub for podcast creators. Follow Us: Instagram: @podschool TikTok: @podschool.community YouTube: @stargrowmonetiseyourpodcast LinkedIn: James Burtt & Alex Chisnall In this show, we discuss: In this show we discuss: podcast launch strategy, how to start a podcast, niche podcast tips, podcast monetization, podcast analytics, creating short-form content, TikTok for podcasters, YouTube Shorts for podcasts, Chartable analytics, Pod School, podcast content strategy, grow your podcast audience, podcasting tools, how to promote a podcast, successful podcast launch, podcast ranking tips

    23 min
  2. JAN 6

    Turn Your Podcast into a Content Machine: Maximise Reach and Impact

    In this episode of Start, Grow, and Monetise Your Podcast, James Burtt and Alex Chisnall reveal the secrets to turning your podcast into a content machine. Learn how to repurpose your episodes into multiple formats like blogs, video clips, audiograms, and LinkedIn articles to maximize audience reach and engagement.  They discuss the power of macro and micro content strategies inspired by Gary Vaynerchuk’s method, the importance of SEO-driven content cycles, and using AI tools like Otter.ai and ChatGPT to streamline your workflow.  Discover actionable tips to grow your podcast audience, enhance discoverability, and establish expert authority on platforms like YouTube Shorts, TikTok, and LinkedIn. This episode is packed with insights to fuel your podcasting journey and turn every episode into a multi-platform success story. This show is sponsored by Pod School - your hub for information, education and expert support on starting, growing, scaling, monetizing and optimising your podcast to generate more reach, more impact and more revenue What You'll Learn in This Episode: How to repurpose your podcast into multiple content formats. The difference between macro and micro content strategies. Using short-form content for discoverability and authority building. Tools and AI platforms to streamline content creation. The importance of video content for online traffic growth. Strategies for creating a circular content cycle to engage audiences across platforms. Key Takeaways: Maximise Content Output: Repurpose one podcast episode into multiple content types, including video clips, audiograms, and blogs. Content Distribution: Leverage short-form content on platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts for better discoverability. AI for Efficiency: Use tools like Otter.ai for transcription and ChatGPT for content refinement to save time and enhance output quality. Video Is King: Capture video content even for audio podcasts to create versatile promotional materials. Circular Content Cycle: Redirect your audience between platforms, increasing engagement and building a strong content ecosystem. Recommended Tools & Resources: Otter.ai: Transcribe podcasts for blogs and articles. ChatGPT: Generate blogs, LinkedIn articles, and social media posts from podcast transcripts. Gary Vaynerchuk’s Content Deck: Learn how to turn one piece of content into 67. Canva: Design social media graphics and audiograms. LinkedIn Articles: Build authority and thought leadership. YouTube Shorts & TikTok: Platforms for short-form content discoverability. Join the Conversation: If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow podcaster who’s looking to grow their revenue. For more resources and expert advice, join the free Pod School community – the ultimate hub for podcast creators. Follow Us: Instagram: @podschool TikTok: @podschool.community YouTube: @stargrowmonetiseyourpodcast LinkedIn: James Burtt & Alex Chisnall In this show, we discuss: In this show we discuss: podcast content machine, repurpose podcast episodes, maximize podcast reach, podcast marketing strategies, short-form content for podcasts, podcast promotion tips, AI for podcasters, podcast repurposing tools, LinkedIn for podcasters, TikTok for podcast growth

    17 min
  3. JAN 1

    How to Set SMART Podcast Goals to Ensure Success

    In this episode of Start, Grow, and Monetize Your Podcast, hosts James Burtt and Alex Chisnall unpack the power of setting clear and actionable podcast goals. They delve into the importance of SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound) and how they drive focus, growth, and long-term success.  Using real-world examples, they illustrate how having a clear listener avatar and defined objectives can transform your podcasting journey. From achieving chart-topping success in record time to monetizing with targeted strategies, this episode offers invaluable insights for podcasters at any stage.  Whether you're launching your first episode or looking to scale, this conversation will inspire you to take your podcast to the next level. This show is sponsored by Pod School - your hub for information, education and expert support on starting, growing, scaling, monetizing and optimising your podcast to generate more reach, more impact and more revenue What You'll Learn in This Episode: How to set SMART goals for your podcast and why they matter. The importance of understanding your ideal listener avatar. Real-life examples of podcast success through goal-setting. Strategies for monetization and creating a sustainable content model. How to stay motivated during challenging times. Key Takeaways: SMART Goals: Setting Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound goals ensures clarity and direction. Know Your Listener Avatar: Identifying your ideal audience, like "Johnny" in this episode, helps tailor content and strategy. Monetization Planning: Define your financial goals and reverse-engineer your strategy to achieve them. Consistency is Key: Even in tough times, clear goals keep you focused and committed. Niche Wins: A hyper-focused podcast can create massive impact with a smaller, targeted audience. Recommended Tools & Resources: SMART Goals Framework: A proven model for goal-setting. Content Calendars: Plan episodes to align with your objectives. Podcast Hosting Platforms: Tools to track metrics and audience growth. Join the Conversation: If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow podcaster who’s looking to grow their revenue. For more resources and expert advice, join the free Pod School community – the ultimate hub for podcast creators. Follow Us: Instagram: @podschool TikTok: @podschool.community YouTube: @stargrowmonetiseyourpodcast LinkedIn: James Burtt & Alex Chisnall In this show, we discuss: In this show we discuss: podcast goals, SMART goals for podcasters, podcast monetization strategies, ideal listener avatar, podcast success tips, podcasting for beginners, grow your podcast, podcasting strategies, podcast niche, how to monetize a podcast, consistent podcasting tips, podcasting advice 2024, podcast community building, podcast content strategy, podcast marketing tips, podcast chart success, build a podcast audience, podcasting tools and resources

    18 min
  4. 12/30/2024

    How to Build Your Dream Podcast Listener Avatar for Growth

    In this insightful episode of Pod School, Alex Chisnall and James Burtt delve into the essential practice of defining your podcast's "dream listener avatar." They explore how understanding your audience’s specific demographics, psychographics, and behaviors can elevate your podcast’s resonance and impact.  With real-world examples from brands like Candy Kittens and Nando’s, they highlight how avatars like "Chloe from Clapham" and "Jenny the shopper" were pivotal for tailoring marketing strategies and driving success.  Whether you're aiming to educate, entertain, or inform, this episode equips you with actionable tools and exercises—available for free in Pod School—to help you connect deeply with your ideal audience and grow your podcast effectively. This show is sponsored by Pod School - your hub for information, education and expert support on starting, growing, scaling, monetizing and optimising your podcast to generate more reach, more impact and more revenue What You'll Learn in This Episode: The importance of creating a "dream listener avatar" for your podcast. How niche targeting can help you resonate with your audience. Real-life examples of brands leveraging avatars for success. Practical steps for crafting and applying a detailed listener profile. Why understanding your avatar’s listening habits is critical for content strategy. Key Takeaways: Targeting Specific Audiences: Broad content often starts with a niche focus. Begin specific to attract a loyal audience, then expand. Crafting the Avatar: Use detailed demographic and psychographic information to tailor your podcast’s content and marketing. Examples of Success: Stories like Candy Kittens’ "Chloe from Clapham" and Nando’s "Jenny the shopper" illustrate the power of understanding your audience. Practical Applications: Tailor podcast length, structure, and topics to your avatar’s preferences for optimal engagement. Recommended Tools & Resources: Pod School Workbook: Free tools to help you define your dream listener avatar and grow your podcast. Facebook Page Transparency: Identify what your target brands are advertising. Pod School Community: Feedback and resources for improving your podcast. Join the Conversation: If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow podcaster who’s looking to grow their revenue. For more resources and expert advice, join the free Pod School community – the ultimate hub for podcast creators. Follow Us: Instagram: @podschool TikTok: @podschool.community YouTube: @stargrowmonetiseyourpodcast LinkedIn: James Burtt & Alex Chisnall In this show, we discuss: In this show we discuss: podcast listener avatar, grow your podcast, how to start a podcast, niche podcasting strategies, podcast audience engagement, podcast marketing tips, podcast branding, dream listener profile, podcast growth tools, Pod School resources, podcast monetization tips, podcast success strategies, podcasting tips for beginners, audience targeting for podcasts, niche audience podcasting, podcast content strategy

    17 min
  5. 12/25/2024

    How to Attract Sponsors and Find Your Niche for Podcast Success

    In this episode of Start, Grow, and Monetize Your Podcast, hosts James Burtt and Alex Chisnall answer burning listener questions about podcast success, sponsorships, and finding your niche. Discover actionable tips on how to stand out in a crowded market, pitch to dream sponsors like Barclays, and define success beyond downloads. Learn why niching down helps build a loyal audience and how to align your podcast with the goals of major brands. Whether you're new to podcasting or scaling your show, this episode offers tactical advice to help you grow your reach, attract sponsors, and deliver high-value content. This show is sponsored by Pod School - your hub for information, education and expert support on starting, growing, scaling, monetizing and optimising your podcast to generate more reach, more impact and more revenue What You'll Learn in This Episode: How to define what podcast success means to you. The importance of niching down to stand out in a competitive market. Proven tips to attract dream sponsors and align your podcast with top brands. Why your podcast episode length matters and how to get it just right. Strategies for building your target audience and maintaining engagement. Key Takeaways: Podcast Success is Subjective: Define your goals—whether downloads, sponsorships, or meaningful conversations. Dream Sponsors: Research brand campaigns and tailor your content to align with their messaging. Niche Wins: Going hyper-specific within a broad category can help you build a loyal audience faster. Optimal Podcast Length: Deliver value first; your episodes should be as long as necessary to keep the audience engaged. Content Strategy: Your podcast must resonate with your ideal listener avatar. Understand their needs and preferences to craft standout episodes. Recommended Tools & Resources: Facebook Ads Library: Research brand ad strategies for sponsorship alignment. Apollo.io: Tools for finding key decision-makers within target companies. ChatGPT/AI Tools: Reverse-engineer content based on current brand campaigns. Join the Conversation: If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow podcaster who’s looking to grow their revenue. For more resources and expert advice, join the free Pod School community – the ultimate hub for podcast creators. Follow Us: Instagram: @podschool TikTok: @podschool.community YouTube: @stargrowmonetiseyourpodcast LinkedIn: James Burtt & Alex Chisnall In this show, we discuss: In this show we discuss: podcast success, how to attract podcast sponsors, podcast sponsorship tips, podcast niche strategy, podcast monetization, how to find a podcast niche, podcast growth tips, best podcast episode length, podcast community building, podcast sponsorship pitch, content strategy for podcasters, dream podcast sponsors, podcast listener engagement, podcast marketing strategy, top podcast tools

    28 min
  6. 12/23/2024

    Master the Perfect Podcast Structure: Secrets to Consistency and Growth

    Building a successful podcast starts with a solid structure. In this episode of Start, Grow, and Monetise Your Podcast, James Burtt and Alex Chisnall reveal the secrets to creating a winning podcast format that keeps your audience hooked and engaged. Learn how to craft a podcast with clear intros, engaging main content, and memorable outroductions while seamlessly integrating sponsorships and signature segments. Whether you’re a seasoned podcaster or just starting out, this episode is packed with actionable insights to elevate your podcasting game. This show is sponsored by Pod School - your hub for information, education and expert support on starting, growing, scaling, monetizing and optimising your podcast to generate more reach, more impact and more revenue What You'll Learn in This Episode: The essential elements of a winning podcast structure, including introductions, main content, and outroductions. How to seamlessly integrate sponsorships into your podcast with pre-roll, mid-roll, and post-roll placements. The value of consistent segments like signature questions or recurring themes for audience engagement. Strategies to test and refine your podcast format for improved listener retention and growth. Key Takeaways: Consistency is Key: A structured and predictable format is crucial for building and retaining an audience. Use Clear Signposts: Guide listeners through your podcast with introductions, transitions, and defined segments. Effective Ad Placement: Mid-roll ads often perform best, especially when integrated as advertorials. Signature Segments Work: Unique and recurring segments make your podcast memorable and easier to promote. Test and Iterate: Regularly experiment with new features and use analytics to refine your content. Recommended Tools & Resources: Podcast Hosting Platforms: Libsyn, Buzzsprout, Podbean – for setting up your podcast and managing RSS feeds. Editing Software: Audacity (free) or Adobe Audition – for polishing your episodes. Recording Equipment: Zoom H6, Blue Yeti Microphone – affordable yet professional recording gear. Marketing Tools: Canva for graphics, Hootsuite for social media scheduling. Join the Conversation: If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow podcaster who’s looking to grow their revenue. For more resources and expert advice, join the free Pod School community – the ultimate hub for podcast creators. Follow Us: Instagram: @podschool TikTok: @podschool.community YouTube: @stargrowmonetiseyourpodcast LinkedIn: James Burtt & Alex Chisnall In this show, we discuss: In this show we discuss: podcast structure, a well-crafted story, leverage structured formats, compelling sponsorship messages, consistency, importance of data-driven decisions, podcast improvements

    21 min
  7. 12/18/2024

    Redefining Podcast Goals: What Makes a Podcast Successful?

    Success in podcasting isn’t just about numbers. In this episode of Start, Grow, and Monetise Your Podcast, James Burtt and Alex Chisnall redefine podcast success, showcasing how it can mean engaging with your audience, building impactful relationships, or achieving personal milestones. Whether you're aiming to grow your brand, connect with key industry players, or make a difference in your niche, this episode offers actionable insights to help you achieve your unique version of podcast success. This show is sponsored by Pod School - your hub for information, education and expert support on starting, growing, scaling, monetizing and optimising your podcast to generate more reach, more impact and more revenue What You'll Learn in This Episode: How to Define Podcast Success: Understanding personal and professional goals. Beyond the Numbers: Why engagement and impact often outweigh download stats. The Power of Niche Podcasting: Real-world examples of success through focus. Strategies for Improvement: Tips on consistency, meaningful conversations, and better content. Monetization and Opportunities: Creative ways to leverage your podcast for business success. Key Takeaways: Podcast success is subjective—define what it means for you. Focus on building relationships and creating meaningful content over chasing numbers. Consistency and engagement are key to growing your podcast audience. Don’t be afraid to dream big; use your podcast as a tool to open doors. Improvement is more important than scale—get better before getting bigger. Recommended Tools & Resources: Buzzsprout: A reliable hosting platform for seamless distribution. Libsyn: An established RSS hosting solution for podcasts. Tim Ferriss’ Tools of Titans: Learn from one of the most impactful podcasters. Podcast Connect (Apple): A must-use tool for uploading and managing your podcast on Apple Podcasts. Join the Conversation: If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow podcaster who’s looking to grow their revenue. For more resources and expert advice, join the free Pod School community – the ultimate hub for podcast creators. Follow Us: Instagram: @podschool TikTok: @podschool.community YouTube: @stargrowmonetiseyourpodcast LinkedIn: James Burtt & Alex Chisnall In this show, we discuss: In this show we discuss: why success means different things to different podcasters, the role of engagement and feedback in measuring podcast impact, creative ways to monetise your podcast, including live events, books, and more, inspiring stories of podcasters using their shows to build careers and connections, practical tips for improving your podcast and growing your audience

    19 min
  8. 12/16/2024

    Step-by-Step Guide to Get Your Podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts

    Making your podcast accessible on major platforms like Spotify and Apple Podcasts is the first step to global reach. In this episode of Start, Grow, and Monetise Your Podcast, Alex Chisnall and James Burtt break down the exact steps to set up your podcast for seamless distribution. Whether you’re new to podcasting or looking to optimise your setup, this episode provides everything you need to know about using RSS platforms, integrating with Spotify and Apple, and ensuring your podcast reaches its audience wherever they listen. This show is sponsored by Pod School - your hub for information, education and expert support on starting, growing, scaling, monetizing and optimising your podcast to generate more reach, more impact and more revenue What You'll Learn in This Episode: How RSS Feeds Work: The role of hosting platforms like Libsyn, Buzzsprout, and Podbean in distributing your podcast. Setting Up on Spotify: The simple steps to manually link your RSS feed for smooth integration. Apple Podcasts Integration: A detailed walkthrough for creating an Apple Podcasts Connect account and linking your show. Challenges and Solutions: Common hurdles and how to overcome them with ease. Best Practices for Global Reach: Tips for building a strong foundation for podcast distribution. Key Takeaways: Your RSS feed is the backbone of podcast distribution—set it up correctly for effortless updates. Platforms like Spotify and Apple Podcasts have different linking requirements; understanding them is key. The process might seem daunting, but it’s a one-time setup that unlocks global reach. Resources like Pod School can provide live training and support to help you through the setup. Recommended Tools & Resources: Podcast Analytics: Tools to track listener engagement and optimise your schedule. Join the Conversation: If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow podcaster who’s looking to grow their revenue. For more resources and expert advice, join the free Pod School community – the ultimate hub for podcast creators. Follow Us: Instagram: @podschool TikTok: @podschool.community YouTube: @stargrowmonetiseyourpodcast LinkedIn: James Burtt & Alex Chisnall In this show, we discuss: In this show we discuss: Podcasting for free, start a podcast, free podcast tools, mobile podcast recording, budget-friendly podcasting, affordable podcast equipment, free hosting platforms, podcast tips for beginners, podcast editing hacks, growing a podcast on a budget

    12 min

About

How To Start, Grow, and Monetise Your Podcast with James Burtt & Alex Chisnall Turn your podcast idea into an impactful brand and income stream! Join podcast experts James and Alex—who have launched 400+ top-charting podcasts—as they share practical and tactical steps to build, grow, and monetise your show. Each episode delivers actionable tips on podcast equipment, content strategy, audience growth, and brand monetisation to help you thrive in podcasting. Perfect for entrepreneurs, content creators, and anyone ready to amplify their voice, this is your weekly guide to profitable podcasting. Join the free Pod School community for exclusive resources, trainings, and support. Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, Amazon Music, and many more.

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