Discover actionable podcast growth tips from Robin Waite, including SEO strategies, guest selection, and streamlining production for greater success.
In a recent episode of Podcasting Amplified, podcast host Joe Eftihiou spoke with business coach and podcaster Robin Waite about the strategic choices that helped him grow his show, The Fearless Business Podcast. From optimising SEO and relaunching episodes to making intentional choices around guest selection and production, Robin shared practical insights on how to take a podcast to the next level.
If you're looking to grow your own podcast or understand what goes on behind the scenes of a successful show, read on for Robin’s actionable tips and advice.
Robin started his podcast with little strategy but quickly realised that SEO could play a powerful role in reaching a wider audience.
Since podcasts are now indexed on search engines, SEO can help make individual episodes more discoverable. Robin noticed that once he re-optimised episode titles and descriptions, the downloads for his show increased. He also reorganised episode numbers and corrected order issues, further enhancing listener experience.
Initially hosted on Anchor.fm, Robin shifted to Podbean for better distribution across different markets. He noted that platforms like Podbean and Captivate, which are more specialised, tend to offer better reach and reliability as a show grows.
When Robin’s show hit its 100th episode, he decided to do a special relaunch to celebrate. He released five monologues and five interviews in a single week, which led to a significant increase in downloads.
This content boost created a mini-event that helped reinvigorate listener interest. By varying content (interviews vs. monologues), Robin appealed to different preferences within his audience, and the impact was clear: downloads quadrupled in just 90 days. Based on listener feedback, he decided to create more solo episodes, which turned out to be his most popular format.
Robin found that monologues offered a direct way for him to connect with listeners, especially those interested in his unique insights. He decided to release solo episodes more frequently, which helped him build a dedicated audience who specifically tuned in for his voice and perspective.
In the beginning, Robin accepted a wide variety of guests. But he learned that many of them didn’t actively share or promote the episodes, leading to a lower return on effort. He now reserves guest spots for people he has an established relationship with, ensuring that each episode will be shared and promoted by both parties.
Robin also introduced a new structure for guest episodes: he opens with a short thought leadership segment, invites the guest to share their insights, and then closes with his own thoughts. This approach gives listeners a bit of both worlds and allows Robin to consistently offer his perspective.
When he began producing episodes, Robin added step after step to the process, eventually reaching a 68-step workflow that cost up to £500 per episode. He realised that the high production value didn’t always translate to better results, and simplified the workflow to focus on what listeners truly wanted: high-quality content, not unnecessary frills.
Robin advises focusing on the essentials and not feeling pressured to produce a video component if it doesn’t add value. While video can be beneficial, audio-only podcasts still offer a highly engaging experience for listeners without the need for extensive setup or editing.
Robin’s audio-only monologues remain his most popular episodes. Without the distraction of video, he feels more relaxed and natural, which makes it easier to record several episodes in a short time. Listeners have responded positively to this format, showing that quality content and personal connection are more valuable than extensive production.
Robin began his podcast without a clear monetisation plan. By episode 67, however, he became more strategic about aligning the podcast with his business goals.
While initially unplanned, the podcast attracted sponsorship and speaking opportunities. Robin suggests staying flexible and open to partnerships, but ensuring that sponsorships align with the podcast’s values and audience. He advises podcasters to consider how each episode can connect back to their larger goals, whether that’s attracting clients, promoting a product, or building authority in their field.
Robin's journey highlights the importance of intentionality. From SEO to guest selection and production choices, he adapted his strategy based on listener feedback and results. By focusing on what truly adds value, he’s been able to create a podcast that resonates with a growing audience.
Robin emphasises that a podcast guest appearance can be a highly effective marketing tool, especially when strategically aligned with your expertise and business goals. His approach includes choosing podcasts that are relevant to his audience, as well as considering the potential reach and reputation of each show. By selecting the right podcasts, Robin has been able to amplify his voice to new audiences who are primed to engage with his message.
Robin’s appearances on podcasts have led to significant benefits, including increased traffic to his website, new client leads, and stronger industry recognition. His willingness to share actionable insights during guest appearances has built a reputation that aligns well with his own podcast, The Fearless Business Podcast.
Whether you’re just starting or looking to optimise an existing show, these insights from The Fearless Business Podcast offer actionable advice to make your podcast more successful and sustainable.
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