Friendly Podcast Guide: Teaching Women How to Grow a Podcast (Without Burning Out)

Andi Smiley

Hey, I’m Andi Smiley, your Friendly Podcast Guide and podcast coach for women! After 6 years in the podcasting world, I know how to help you start a successful podcast as a woman and mom, grow your podcast audience, and actually enjoy the process. On this show, you’ll get podcasting for beginners made simple, podcast tips for women, and sustainable podcast marketing strategies—so you can build a podcast you love without the burnout.

  1. Easy Podcast Swap Ideas to Grow Your Podcast

    4 天前

    Easy Podcast Swap Ideas to Grow Your Podcast

    Ready to grow your podcast without living on social media? In this episode, I break down four powerful podcast swap strategies, from guesting to feed drops, that will help you market your show and build real connections with other podcasters. These swaps are simple, organic, and yes, totally doable (even if you're new to collaborating). Hey, I’m Andi Smiley, your go-to podcast coach for women who want to grow their show sustainably. I love teaching marketing strategies that don't rely on daily posting, and I’ve used podcast swaps and Pinterest to grow my audience without burnout. Topics Discussed in This Episode What podcast swaps are (and why they work) The 4 main types of podcast swaps Tips for making your guest appearances count How to keep your podcast feed fresh with a feed drop Easy trailer swaps that boost discoverability Why prerecorded intros are a hidden gem Real examples of podcast swaps that worked How to reach out to other podcasters with confidence Key Takeaways Podcast swaps help you grow your show without needing social media. The 4 main types: guesting, feed drops, trailer swaps, and prerecorded intros. Always pitch with generosity, explain why it’s a good fit and how it benefits their audience. Start small: research shows with a similar audience and suggest a simple swap. Timestamps (00:00) Welcome (00:53) My big aha moment with Pinterest marketing (01:50) What is a podcast swap? (02:11) Podcast guesting and why it works (02:51) Feed drops explained(03:24) How trailer swaps work (03:36) Tip from Lauren Passell on swaps with bigger shows (04:15) Why prerecorded intros are a hidden gem (05:19) How to pitch a podcast swap (without being weird)(05:51) Start small—do this one step today Links & Resources Pinterest Magic for Podcasters Tink Media’s Podcast Friends List The Podcast Space with Ana Xavier Follow me on Instagram Visit my website

    7 分鐘
  2. Grow Your Podcast Audience Using Pinterest

    10月7日

    Grow Your Podcast Audience Using Pinterest

    Pinterest can feel overwhelming, especially after last week’s info-packed chat with expert Megan Williamson. So in this episode, I'm breaking it down with a simple, four-step Pinterest strategy any podcaster can start using today. Whether you're brand new to Pinterest or want a sustainable way to grow your podcast audience without social media—this one's for you! Meet the Expert Hi, I'm Andi Smiley, your friendly podcast coach for women! I help women podcasters grow their shows without burning out through actionable strategies, stories from my own podcasting journey, and advice from some of the best in the industry. Topics Discussed in This Episode Why Pinterest is a search engine (not social media!) What keywords actually are—and how to find the right ones How to set up your Pinterest business account for success The importance of consistency over volume How many pins you really need to post per week Tools that make pin creation fast and easy How pins keep bringing traffic months later What to do first if you're starting from scratch Key Takeaways Pinterest isn't about perfection—it's about consistency. Start with one pin a week and grow from there. Your pins can drive traffic long after they’re posted. Keyword research is easier than you think—just use Pinterest’s own search bar. “Done is better than perfect” is the mantra for sustainable Pinterest success. Timestamps (00:00) Welcome (00:53) Step 1: Optimize with keywords (02:17) Step 2: Set up your Pinterest account (02:58) Step 3: Plan your Pinterest strategy (04:14) Step 4: Pin and grow (05:40) What to do first if you're just starting with Pinterest as a Podcaster Links & Resources Grab Pinterest Magic for Podcasters Listen to last week’s episode with Meagan Williamson Find me on Threads Find me on Pinterest Find me on Instagram

    6 分鐘
  3. Podcast SEO Explained: A Simple Way to Grow Your Podcast

    9月23日

    Podcast SEO Explained: A Simple Way to Grow Your Podcast

    Ever wonder how people actually find your podcast? In this episode, I’m breaking down the basics of podcast SEO—what it is, why it matters, and how to start using it right now to grow your show. These simple, repeatable strategies will help your podcast get discovered on both podcast apps and Google—without burning you out. Hi, I’m Andi Smiley, your friendly podcast guide and podcast coach for women who want to grow their shows sustainably. I’ve built my podcast through smart, low-stress marketing strategies like SEO and Pinterest and I’m sharing the exact steps with you. Topics Discussed in This Episode What podcast SEO is and why it matters How to brainstorm the right search phrases Using Google autocomplete to expand your keyword list Where to place keywords in your podcast content Why you don’t need to rename your podcast to improve SEO How Pinterest supports long-term podcast growth Real-life results from my own Pinterest strategy Key Takeaways Podcast SEO isn’t as hard, or technical, as it sounds. It starts with knowing what your listener is searching for, using those phrases naturally in your titles and descriptions, and repeating the process across all your content. The best part? Once you’ve done it, those strategies keep working in the background while you go live your life. Timestamps (00:00) Intro & who this episode is for (00:37) How Pinterest helped grow my podcast (01:26) Step 1: Brainstorm podcast seo keywords (01:56) Step 2: Use Google to expand your podcast seo keywords (02:41) Step 3: Add podcast seo keywords everywhere (03:26) Step 4: Repeat across your content (03:58) One simple step to get started Links & Resources Grab the free checklist: Is Pinterest Right for Me? Connect with me on Instagram Connect with me on Threads Subscribe to the show so you don’t miss next week’s Pinterest episode!

    5 分鐘
  4. Sustainable Podcast Growth: A Mom Podcaster Roundtable

    9月16日

    Sustainable Podcast Growth: A Mom Podcaster Roundtable

    In this episode, I’m sharing powerful, real-life advice from seven inspiring mom podcasters to help you grow your podcast audience without burning out. From mindset shifts to smart marketing strategies and time-saving tools, these nuggets of wisdom (plus my own commentary) are here to encourage and energize your podcasting journey. I asked seven amazing mom podcasters to share their best sustainable podcasting strategies. You'll hear advice from: Candace, The Podcasting Mentor: Better Brave Scotti, Unlocking School Success Kristen, Amplify Ambition Ashley, Taboo Science Erin & Heather, Three Kitchens Sarah & Kenzie, Cosmic Group Chat Rachel, Teenagers Untangled  ...and of course, I’m adding in my own thoughts and lessons from coaching podcasters just like you. Topics Discussed in This Episode How to grow a podcast audience without social media burnout Why Pinterest might be your secret marketing weapon Mindset shifts that help you hit publish Time-saving podcast systems for moms Perfectionism and why “done” is better than perfect The power of batching and working ahead Smart ways to use AI tools for podcasting Guesting tips that actually help your podcast grow What sustainable podcasting really looks like Key Takeaways Start before you’re ready—your voice matters now, not “someday” Podcasting doesn’t need to be perfect to be powerful Protect your energy with intentional breaks and flexibility Use Pinterest for long-term podcast growth without social overload Systems and tools (including AI) can help you stay consistent Letting go of perfection is one of the best podcast tips for moms Timestamps (00:00) Welcome and intro (00:34) Why I switched from Instagram to Pinterest (01:27) Mindset tips (03:53) Protect your energy (06:28) Build systems and use tools (12:00) Final thoughts & your one next step Links & Resources Join the waitlist for Pinterest Magic for Podcasters (launches Sept 29 – get $10 off!) Follow me on Instagram Candace’s podcast: The Podcasting Mentor: Better Brave Scotti’s podcast: Unlocking School Success Kristen’s podcast: Amplify Ambition Ashley’s podcast: Taboo Science Erin & Heather’s podcast: Three Kitchens Sarah & Kenzie’s podcast: Cosmic Group Chat Rachel’s podcast: Teenagers Untangled

    13 分鐘
  5. How to Grow Your Podcast in 2026

    9月9日

    How to Grow Your Podcast in 2026

    Ready to grow your podcast in 2026 without burning out? In this episode, I'm sharing four sustainable, impactful strategies to help you stand out and stay energized as a mom who podcasts. Plus, I reveal how Pinterest quietly revolutionized my own podcast growth—and how it can do the same for you. Hi, I’m Andi Smiley—your podcast guide and coach for moms who want to grow their shows in a way that fits their real life. I bring practical podcast tips, honest stories from my own journey, and wisdom from brilliant podcasters and experts (like the Pinterest pro I’ll be featuring soon!). Topics Discussed in this Episode Four podcast growth strategies for 2026 How podcast SEO helps more listeners find your show Using Pinterest instead of Instagram for podcast marketing Why average consumption rate matters more than downloads Where to find your podcast analytics beyond downloads How Pinterest helped my podcast reach new listeners Tips for taking intentional podcast breaks (without ghosting) Encouragement for sustainable podcasting Takeaways Podcast SEO isn’t scary—just use real words your listeners search for. Pinterest is the podcast marketing platform no one’s talking about (yet!). Pay attention to how long people actually listen to your episodes. Breaks are powerful—but tell your listeners what to expect! Start by creating just one pin. It could change everything. (00:00) Welcome (00:32) My big podcast marketing aha moment (01:24) Podcast growth tip #1: Make Podcast SEO your friend (02:35) Tip #2: Pinterest over Instagram (04:21) Tip #3: Look at your average consumption rate (05:33) Tip #4: Take intentional podcast breaks (06:32) Your one next step: Try Pinterest Get on the waitlist for Pinterest Magic for Podcasters Episode with Brittany Herzberg on SEO Apple Podcast Connect Create Pins with Canva Follow me on Pinterest

    7 分鐘
  6. How to Grow a Podcast Audience: 5 Game-Changing Tips

    9月2日

    How to Grow a Podcast Audience: 5 Game-Changing Tips

    In this episode, I'm breaking down my Top 5 Takeaways from Podcast Movement, the biggest podcasting conference in the U.S. Whether you're brand new or a few seasons in, these tips will help you grow your podcast audience, feel less pressure around social media, and explore fresh, sustainable strategies for podcast marketing and monetization. I'm Andi Smiley—podcast coach for moms and host of this show! I help mom podcasters grow without burnout by sharing practical podcasting tips and lessons from my own journey. I just got back from Podcast Movement, and I’m spilling the top insights that can make a big difference for your show. Topics Discussed in This Episode How podcast SEO can help your audience find you Why Instagram doesn’t need to be your main marketing channel My podcast strategies: podcast swaps, podcast SEO and Pinterest Seeing other podcasters as collaborators, not competition Multiple ways to make money podcasting beyond ads The surprising ROI of Pinterest for podcast marketing What to focus on if you're overwhelmed with podcast growth Key Takeaways Focus on podcast SEO—it’s the gift that keeps on giving. Social media is great for connection, but not ideal for growth. Podcast swaps are a powerful way to grow your listener base. Collaborate with podcasters in your niche—you’re stronger together. Monetization isn’t just ads! Paid subscriptions are a great option for smaller shows. One action step: optimize your podcast with SEO-friendly keywords. Timestamps (00:00) Welcome (00:33) My Pinterest “aha” moment (01:40) Takeaway 1: Podcast SEO (03:00) Takeaway 2: Social media ≠ podcast marketing (03:38) Takeaway 3: Podcast swaps (04:28) Takeaway 4: Collaborating with similar shows (06:06) Takeaway 5: Different ways to monetize your podcast (07:34) One action step Links & Resources Join the Pinterest Magic for Podcasters waitlist (and get $10 off when it launches) Brittany Herzberg SEO Interview Follow me on Instagram Learn more on the Friendly Podcast Guide website

    8 分鐘
  7. Podcast Tips for Moms: Season 4 Kickoff

    8月25日

    Podcast Tips for Moms: Season 4 Kickoff

    Season 4 is here! I’m sharing a peek into what’s coming up—including podcast marketing strategies I learned at Podcast Movement in Dallas, sustainable podcasting strategies that work for real life, and the heart behind why I coach moms in podcasting. If you’re wondering how to grow a podcast audience or start a successful podcast as a mom, you’re in the right place.I’m Andi Smiley, podcast coach for moms who want to start and grow a podcast without burning out. With six years of podcasting experience and a heart for helping moms succeed, I bring practical tools, real-life advice, and a whole lot of encouragement to your earbuds. Topics Discussed in This Episode Season 4 sneak peek What I learned at Podcast Movement Dallas Podcast marketing strategies that actually work Sustainable podcasting strategies for moms Why burnout doesn’t belong in your podcast plan How to grow a podcast audience without hustling 24/7 Balancing podcasting with motherhood and caregiving A few surprises coming this season (hint: guest appearances!) Key TakeawaysThis season is all about marketing your podcast in a way that’s quick, effective, and totally mom-life-friendly. You’ll get expert advice, encouraging stories, and doable podcast tips for moms—so you can grow your audience without sacrificing your sanity. Links & Resources Learn more on my website Follow me on Instagram Subscribe to the show so you don’t miss a thing! Transcript: Hi, I’m Andi Smiley—your Friendly Podcast Guide and the podcast coach for moms who want to start and grow a podcast without burning out. If you’ve ever wondered how to start a successful podcast as a mom—or how to grow a podcast audience once you’ve launched—you’re in the right place. I’ve been podcasting for five years, and I’ve helped so many moms find podcasting strategies that actually fit their lives. On this show, you’ll get practical podcast tips for moms, stories from my own journey, and wisdom from some of the smartest podcasters out there. Season 4 of The Friendly Podcast Guide is packed. I just got back from Podcast Movement in Dallas, and I’ll be sharing the insider podcast marketing strategies that podcasters everywhere are talking about. But I don’t just teach theory—I show you sustainable podcasting strategies that work in real life. Because you don’t have time for fluff or burnout, and neither do I. This season, we’ll cover marketing your show in a way that’s quick, effective, and mom-life friendly, plus how to balance motherhood, caregiving, and podcasting without letting your show take over your life. And it won’t just be me—you’ll hear from incredible guests, and maybe even my partner Scott will make a special appearance. It’s going to be a season full of encouragement, expert advice, and the podcast marketing strategies you’ve been searching for to grow your audience in a way that feels good. So, hit subscribe and let’s make this the season you finally create and grow a podcast you love.

    1 分鐘
  8. Greek Myths & Podcasting with Cole from Lasting Legends

    7月29日

    Greek Myths & Podcasting with Cole from Lasting Legends

    Ever wondered how a high schooler could take a passion for Greek mythology and turn it into a hit podcast? In this episode, I chat with Cole, the teen creator behind Lasting Legends: Greek Myths Surround Us, a kid-friendly podcast that connects ancient myths to the modern world. If your kids are into Percy Jackson or love learning through stories, this one's for you. Cole isn’t just any guest—he’s a young podcaster who’s turning heads (and sparking conversations) with his thoughtful storytelling and creative sound design. His podcast has become a favorite in my house, and in this conversation, we dig into how he crafts his episodes, why he started his show, and what it’s been like seeing it reach listeners all around the world. Topics discussed in this episode: Why he chose Greek mythology as his podcast focus Creative ways he ties myths to modern life The sound effects and production techniques that make his show engaging How his episodes spark family conversations (including at my house!) His advice for kids (and adults) who want to start a podcast What he's learned since launching Lasting Legends The episode he's most proud of—and why Takeaways from this episode:Cole reminds us that podcasting can be a fun, creative outlet at any age—and that sound design can make a huge difference in how your audience connects with your content. If you're feeling stuck, try adding just one sound effect to your next episode. It could be the spark that reignites your love for podcasting. Timestamps (00:00) Intro (02:09) Meet Cole and how he started podcasting (07:18) The sound effects that bring his show to life (10:20) What surprised him most about podcasting (12:52) Cole’s top advice for new podcasters (13:57) Where to listen to Lasting Legends (14:36) Final thoughts and your one next step Links: Listen to Lasting Legends on Pocket Casts Listen to Lasting Legends on Apple Listen to Lasting Legends on Spotify Try Show Notes Sidekick to name your episodes, write your show notes, and more kid podcaster, Greek mythology podcast, podcasting for kids, creative podcast ideas, podcast sound effects, Lasting Legends

    16 分鐘
4.9
(滿分 5 顆星)
34 則評分

簡介

Hey, I’m Andi Smiley, your Friendly Podcast Guide and podcast coach for women! After 6 years in the podcasting world, I know how to help you start a successful podcast as a woman and mom, grow your podcast audience, and actually enjoy the process. On this show, you’ll get podcasting for beginners made simple, podcast tips for women, and sustainable podcast marketing strategies—so you can build a podcast you love without the burnout.

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