Chapter 5: Hosting, Promoting, and Distributing Your Podcast - HoET252

Welcome to House of #EdTech! Today, we're diving into Chapter 5 from my book I Like to Podcast and You Will Too!: A House of #EdTech Guide to Podcasting. This chapter is all about what comes after you hit record – hosting, promoting, and distributing your podcast to ensure it reaches as many ears as possible. We'll cover essential strategies to help you expand your audience and engage listeners effectively.

Key Takeaways:

1. What is a Podcast Media Host?

• A media host stores and distributes your podcast's audio files, allowing listeners to access episodes through platforms like Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Choose a media host that fits your needs, offering options such as analytics, website hosting, and RSS feed management. Popular hosting platforms include:
  • Spotify for Podcasters, Blubrry, Buzzsprout, Captivate, Castos, Libsyn (promo code NESI), Podbean, Simplecast, Spreaker, and Transistor.
• Research hosting options carefully to find a plan that best suits your podcast's goals and budget.

2. Submitting to Directories

• Get your podcast listed on major directories, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, so it can be discovered by a wider audience. Submission involves creating an account, entering your podcast’s RSS feed URL, and waiting for verification.
• Once your podcast is approved, these platforms offer features such as subscriber stats, reviews, and categorization options to improve your show’s visibility.

3. Social Media Promotion Strategies

• Share Regular Updates: Consistently promote new episodes on social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Engage with your followers by responding to comments and questions.
• Collaborate for Growth: Partner with other podcasters or influencers in your niche to reach new listeners and build credibility.
• Platform-Specific Tips:
  • Twitter/X: Post real-time updates, engage in conversations, and use trending hashtags.
  • Threads: Instagram's answer to the decline of Twitter/X
  • Instagram: Share behind-the-scenes content and episode snippets. Stories can showcase your creative process.
  • Facebook: Leverage groups and pages to engage with targeted audiences.
  • LinkedIn: Share articles or insights on topics related to your podcast to connect with a professional audience.
• Consider Paid Advertising: Facebook and Instagram ads can effectively broaden your reach, especially when targeted toward specific interests or demographics.

4. Building an Email List

• An email list allows you to maintain a direct line to your audience, even when they’re not actively listening. Send out episode announcements, exclusive offers, or bonus content to keep your listeners engaged.
• Incentivize sign-ups by offering exclusive content, early episode releases, or other perks. Check out services like Mailchimp, ConvertKit, or HubSpot to get started with list management.

Feedback:

Martin Byford-Rew has launched the #EdTech Stuff Podcast! He shared a voicemail with me about a recording he did that didn't turn out great and what he did. Check out his podcast!