PodMov Daily: Thursday, September 2

Episode 496: Your Thursday Podthoughts

How to Boost the Benefits of Podcast Reviews

Reviews have significant influence over human behavior, as evidenced by your last online purchase. For podcasters, getting the most mileage out of 5-star feedback starts with celebration. Evo Terra explains in Podcast Pontifications how to toss that confetti — in your show, on your website, and on social media.

When a listener encounters any of these channels, “Don't make them wonder if your podcast is any good.” At the same time, don’t force others’ opinions into their faces. There are ways to display them (and thank reviewers) that show extra care. When we know our thoughts will be appreciated, we’re more likely to engage.

One doesn’t need a massive social media following to generate traction with a screenshot, Terra says. “Done right, you can tap into the network(s) of the person who left a glowing review for your podcast.” As you boost your own reviews, remember to write them as well: September’s #podrevday is next Wednesday.

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The “Huge Returns” of Helping Other Podcasters

In one way or another, a podcaster’s goal is to ‘get pie.’ According to Darknet Diaries creator Jack Rhysider, an unselfish approach is essential to long-term growth: “The more you help others get their pie, the more pie you'll get.” His assessment of Apple Podcasts subscriptions, published Tuesday, is a perfect example. 

Success as an independent podcaster takes years of work, but it can’t be done alone. The best way to pay that forward is to help others “bake their pies.” For Rhysider, that means offering advice on r/podcasting (a Reddit forum), building relationships with other creators, and sharing valuable firsthand knowledge.

“It's easier than ever to start a blog, or YouTube channel, or podcast to teach people things,” he says. “But if you come into podcasting reaching for your slice of the pie to eat it right away, it'll be gone before you know it and you'll have nothing left.” PS: Thanks, Jack, for mentioning our coverage as a benefit of baking pie.

Now’s the time, new podcasters: September's 28-Day Launch Challenge begins tomorrow. Members of this free class will have access to daily tasks, private community discussions, and a chance to win a pass to a PM event in 2022. 

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Here's what else is going on:

• Voice box: Radiolab is outsourcing sponsor reads to its audience. The classic WNYC show has provided 12 scripts to “curious listeners all over the world.” For a chance to be heard on the podcast, anyone can use the site’s embedded recorder to hype a car repair service or Broadway thriller.

• Straight shot: How well do you know your adtech options? In the latest video deepdive series from Sounds Profitable, Bryan Barletta covers eight. A company representative reviews the details of their tool or service with “no power points, press releases, or marketing presentations.”

• Print preview: If you want media attention, “you'll need to know how to pitch your podcast to journalists,” writes Lindsay Harris Friel of The Podcast Host. Go with targeted strategies beyond mass email or social media. News outlets “get dozens of these random requests every day.” 

• Fair warning: Spotify for Podcasters breaks down “what’s ‘clean’ vs. ‘explicit’” when labeling episodes. They suggest creators give each one a ‘content rating,’ which is a built-in Anchor feature. As far as foul language, adult themes, and bleep count, Spotify uses PG film ratings as a guideline.