Chances are, your show isn’t the biggest or the best in your niche. You don’t have the budget to outspend the big shows, nor the production team to put out a higher production show.

So what do you do? Is it even possible to compete or should you pack it now and save yourself the trouble.

In this roast, we dissect the Explore Podcast, a show competing with some of the most popular shows on the planet, to identify the right (and wrong) approaches for building an audience in a crowded space dominated by deep-pocketed behemoths.

🛠️ Resources
Subscribe to Explore Podcast
Lenny Rachitsky
Nathan Barry
Acquired Podcast

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Subscribe to our other shows:
Killer Concept — a podcast breaking down the dark art and subtle science of making marketable podcasts, where in every episode, we start with a generic topic… and step-by-step, develop it into a must-listen, category-dominating show.
Podcast Marketing Trends Explained — a data-driven podcast growth show, where in every episode, we unpack a different piece of podcast marketing data to help you make smarter decisions about your show instead of relying on recycled advice and surface-level tactics.

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Join the Podcast Marketing Academy Membership for ongoing podcast marketing support

🎙️ More from @TransistorPodcasting
Try Transistor podcast hosting free for 14 days
Follow @TransistorPodcasting for more podcasting tips & tutorials

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
00:48 First impressions of 'Explore Podcast'
01:50 Analyzing the podcast cover art
02:55 Leveraging listener psychology in cover art design
06:47 How to test and iterate on your podcast artwork
09:20 Podcast description analysis
11:24 What it takes to compete in the podcast space
16:20 Assessing the podcast intro
23:19 Episode title analysis
24:08 A common trap hosts fall for with guest episodes
25:33 Identifying and highlighting universally relevant stories
27:46 Workshopping Justin’s upcoming episode title
30:30 Researching other popular shows in the tech space
35:54 Leveraging connections and credibility
40:51 The power of a compelling host “quest”

Word of mouth can be one of the biggest sources of podcast growth.

But in order to benefit from listener recommendations, you need to make it easy for them to share by giving them the language and eliminating potential confusion and reputational risk.

In this roast, we break down Advancing With Amy, a promising show with a few key mistakes that are likely holding the show back from acquiring new listeners.

🛠️ Resources
Subscribe to Advancing With Amy

Subscribe to Roast My Podcast

Subscribe to our other shows:
Killer Concept — a podcast breaking down the dark art and subtle science of making marketable podcasts, where in every episode, we start with a generic topic… and step-by-step, develop it into a must-listen, category-dominating show.
Podcast Marketing Trends Explained — a data-driven podcast growth show, where in every episode, we unpack a different piece of podcast marketing data to help you make smarter decisions about your show instead of relying on recycled advice and surface-level tactics.

📈 More from Podcast Marketing Academy
Subscribe to The Scrappy Podcasting Newsletter
Get your free personalized podcast marketing audit
Join the Podcast Marketing Academy Membership for ongoing podcast marketing support

🎙️ More from @TransistorPodcasting
Try Transistor podcast hosting free for 14 days
Follow @TransistorPodcasting for more podcasting tips & tutorials

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
00:25 Introducing Advancing with Amy
00:55 First impressions: Title and cover art
05:25 How to generate more word of mouth recommendations
08:46 Evaluating the show description
13:56 Trailer episode review
30:42 Episode titles and custom artwork
34:05 Final thoughts and recommendations

It seems like "Two guys/girls chatting" style shows are the butt of every joke in podcasting.

These shows are often seen as vapid, meandering shows that don't deliver any value. And yet many of the most popular shows in the world appear to follow this exact format.

Which begs the question: What does it take to do this format well?

And more importantly, does today's roastee, The Brewery Explorers pass the test?

🛠️ Resources
Subscribe to The Brewery Explorers Podcast
Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown

Subscribe to Roast My Podcast

Subscribe to our other shows:
Killer Concept — a podcast breaking down the dark art and subtle science of making marketable podcasts, where in every episode, we start with a generic topic… and step-by-step, develop it into a must-listen, category-dominating show.
Podcast Marketing Trends Explained — a data-driven podcast growth show, where in every episode, we unpack a different piece of podcast marketing data to help you make smarter decisions about your show instead of relying on recycled advice and surface-level tactics.

📈 More from Podcast Marketing Academy
Subscribe to The Scrappy Podcasting Newsletter
Get your free personalized podcast marketing audit
Join the Podcast Marketing Academy Membership for ongoing podcast marketing support

🎙️ More from @TransistorPodcasting
Try Transistor podcast hosting free for 14 days
Follow @TransistorPodcasting for more podcasting tips & tutorials

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
01:21 Introducing the Brewery Explorers podcast
01:49 First impressions
02:12 Evaluating the cover art
05:50 The challenge of standing out in a crowded genre
08:02 Brainstorming unique angles for conversational shows
10:24 Trailer assessment
12:23 Adding layers of interest to the show
14:43 Brainstorming show concept ideas
25:53 Proof of what you need: a clear target audience
28:01 What can we learn from the ratings and reviews
30:27 Final thoughts and recommendations

In this episode of Roast My Podcast, we dissect 80s TV Ladies, a podcast dedicated to female-driven TV shows of the 1980s.

We offer feedback on their show's packaging, from cover art and episode titles to trailer consistency and ad placement.

Learn how subtle changes can improve discoverability, keep listeners engaged, and boost your podcast's growth.

Join us as we provide actionable insights for Susan Lambert Hadham and Sharon Johnson's nostalgic podcast!

🛠️ Resources
Subscribe to 80s TV Ladies
Why We Buy
The Webby Awards
Discord
Slack

Subscribe to Roast My Podcast

Subscribe to our other shows:
Killer Concept — a podcast breaking down the dark art and subtle science of making marketable podcasts, where in every episode, we start with a generic topic… and step-by-step, develop it into a must-listen, category-dominating show.
Podcast Marketing Trends Explained — a data-driven podcast growth show, where in every episode, we unpack a different piece of podcast marketing data to help you make smarter decisions about your show instead of relying on recycled advice and surface-level tactics.

📈 More from Podcast Marketing Academy
Subscribe to The Scrappy Podcasting Newsletter
Get your free personalized podcast marketing audit
Join the Podcast Marketing Academy Membership for ongoing podcast marketing support

🎙️ More from @TransistorPodcasting
Try Transistor podcast hosting free for 14 days
Follow @TransistorPodcasting for more podcasting tips & tutorials

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and initial impressions
01:18 Analyzing the cover art
04:07 Discussing show description
05:13 Design insights from the world of buyer psychology
07:24 Evaluating the show content
09:51 Workshopping the show description
18:22 How to improve show relevance and urgency
22:28 Listening to the trailer
23:48 First impressions of the latest episode
29:00 Episode titles and cover art
38:01 The power of reviews and listener feedback
39:48 Final thoughts and recommendations

Everyone tells you that podcast show notes and transcripts will give your website a valuable SEO boost.

And they might… If you understand how SEO works and build your podcast content strategy around it from day one, kind of like today's roastee, Cocktail College has done.

In addition to a fantastic show concept, slick packaging, and excellent production, Cocktail College has built out an impressive web presence, expertly leveraging SEO to grow both their show, website, and brand.

Let's look at how they've done it.

🛠️ Resources
Subscribe to VinePair's Cocktail College podcast
WorkLife with Adam Grant

Subscribe to Roast My Podcast

Subscribe to our other shows:
Killer Concept — a podcast breaking down the dark art and subtle science of making marketable podcasts, where in every episode, we start with a generic topic… and step-by-step, develop it into a must-listen, category-dominating show.
Podcast Marketing Trends Explained — a data-driven podcast growth show, where in every episode, we unpack a different piece of podcast marketing data to help you make smarter decisions about your show instead of relying on recycled advice and surface-level tactics.

📈 More from Podcast Marketing Academy
Subscribe to The Scrappy Podcasting Newsletter
Get your free personalized podcast marketing audit
Join the Podcast Marketing Academy Membership for ongoing podcast marketing support

🎙️ More from @TransistorPodcasting
Try Transistor podcast hosting free for 14 days
Follow @TransistorPodcasting for more podcasting tips & tutorials

Chapters:
00:33 Introducing Cocktail College
00:44 Why your website is crucial for podcast packaging
02:43 The secret job of podcast player badges
06:38 First look: Cocktail College's cover art
08:15 Analyzing the reviews for trends and messaging
09:09 Analyzing the show title
09:57 Breaking down Cocktail College's description
12:04 First minute listen test
13:22 The problem with pre-rolls, even perfect ones
15:01 Enhancing the listener's first experience
19:06 The best day to release episodes
22:17 Why you should update your trailer regularly
27:59 Custom episode artwork: missed chance
30:58 Simple wins: episode titles
33:45 Leveraging show notes for additional SEO discoverability

A podcast is only as good as its concept. But even a great concept is only as good as the messaging and packaging that communicates it to potential listeners.

Messaging and copywriting are two of the most neglected (and yet vitally important) aspects of podcast marketing & growth and in this episode, we're dissecting the show Family Proclamations to highlight how a fascinating concept is getting lost in underwhelming messaging.

🛠️ Resources
Family Proclamations (Now: Relationscapes)
The Mom Test by Rob Fitzpatrick

Subscribe to Roast My Podcast

Subscribe to our other shows:
Killer Concept — a podcast breaking down the dark art and subtle science of making marketable podcasts, where in every episode, we start with a generic topic… and step-by-step, develop it into a must-listen, category-dominating show.
Podcast Marketing Trends Explained — a data-driven podcast growth show, where in every episode, we unpack a different piece of podcast marketing data to help you make smarter decisions about your show instead of relying on recycled advice and surface-level tactics.

📈 More from Podcast Marketing Academy
Subscribe to The Scrappy Podcasting Newsletter
Get your free personalized podcast marketing audit
Join the Podcast Marketing Academy Membership for ongoing podcast marketing support

🎙️ More from @TransistorPodcasting
Try Transistor podcast hosting free for 14 days
Follow @TransistorPodcasting for more podcasting tips & tutorials

Chapters:
00:00 Intro
01:06 First impressions: Analyzing the title & cover art
03:02 The role of font selection in cover art design
07:22 Trailer feedback & analysis
12:36 Dissecting the show description
14:05 How a compelling podcast premise boosts the entire show
17:51 Title and tagline: Conveying the essence of your show
23:03 Analyzing listener reviews for insights
25:45 Leveraging custom episode artwork
28:29 Episode title and description feedback
30:46 The pitfalls of interview podcasts
36:35 Why you’re not just competing against other podcasts

A podcast can be beautifully produced, feature fascinating guests, and contain original, interesting content.

But if potential listeners don't immediately understand what they'll get from listening, it's going to be hard to grow.

In this roast, we dissect Global Health Pursuit by Hetal Baman, a show that on the surface has a lot going for it… and try to get to the bottom of why someone would choose to listen and how she can better communicate that.

🛠️ Resources
Subscribe to Global Health Pursuit
The Mom Test by Rob Fitzpatrick

Subscribe to Roast My Podcast

Subscribe to our other shows:
Killer Concept — a podcast breaking down the dark art and subtle science of making marketable podcasts, where in every episode, we start with a generic topic… and step-by-step, develop it into a must-listen, category-dominating show.
Podcast Marketing Trends Explained — a data-driven podcast growth show, where in every episode, we unpack a different piece of podcast marketing data to help you make smarter decisions about your show instead of relying on recycled advice and surface-level tactics.

📈 More from Podcast Marketing Academy
Subscribe to The Scrappy Podcasting Newsletter
Get your free personalized podcast marketing audit
Join the Podcast Marketing Academy Membership for ongoing podcast marketing support

🎙️ More from @TransistorPodcasting
Try Transistor podcast hosting free for 14 days
Follow @TransistorPodcasting for more podcasting tips & tutorials

Chapters:
00:00 Intro
00:53 First impressions: Title and Cover art analysis
03:25 Podcast description dissection
03:52 Show description archetypes
06:09 Leveraging the “Rule of 3” in your copy and content
08:29 Avoid phrases like "Cut the Fluff"
10:01 What is the Job to be Done of this show?
14:52 How to nail your episode introductions
17:34 Should you use pull quotes in episode intros or not?
22:09 Concept ideation: The travel-health mashup
33:05 Defining your podcast's ideal listener
35:27 The power of listener surveys and honest feedback
36:22 The problem with 5-star reviews
38:55 How you might be unconsciously blocking useful feedback
40:59 Soliciting constructive criticism: a strategy for growth
42:34 Avoiding hypotheticals: Use The Mom Test for podcast feedback

Everyone wants to monetize. But few creators realize that monetization comes at a cost, especially when you attempt it too soon.

So how soon is too soon? And what is the hidden cost of monetization?

In this roast, we break down the Daily Sports History podcast and tease apart the answers to these questions and more.

We also offer practical tips this show can implement immediately to improve its marketing by boosting discoverability, new listener acquisition, and listener retention.

🛠️ Resources
Subscribe to Daily Sports History
Grammarly

Subscribe to Roast My Podcast

Subscribe to our other shows:
Killer Concept — a podcast breaking down the dark art and subtle science of making marketable podcasts, where in every episode, we start with a generic topic… and step-by-step, develop it into a must-listen, category-dominating show.
Podcast Marketing Trends Explained — a data-driven podcast growth show, where in every episode, we unpack a different piece of podcast marketing data to help you make smarter decisions about your show instead of relying on recycled advice and surface-level tactics.

📈 More from Podcast Marketing Academy
Subscribe to The Scrappy Podcasting Newsletter
Get your free personalized podcast marketing audit
Join the Podcast Marketing Academy Membership for ongoing podcast marketing support

🎙️ More from @TransistorPodcasting
Try Transistor podcast hosting free for 14 days
Follow @TransistorPodcasting for more podcasting tips & tutorials

Chapters:
00:00 Intro
00:29 Introducing Daily Sports History
00:53 Are you limiting your podcast's discoverability?
02:29 First impressions: Analyzing cover art
07:11 Pros & cons of the show's podcast description
10:44 Rethinking titles for better audience connection & relevance
12:43 Should this show consider rebranding?
26:04 The First-Minute Test
27:15 The trade-offs between monetization and growth
33:12 How good does your audio quality need to be?
35:12 Leveraging ratings and reviews for podcast growth
35:59 Engaging your audience for content ideas and community building
36:44 Invitation to get your podcast roasted