👋Hey there Podcaster!
In this week’s newsletter, I’ll give you key tips about using a host’s face on podcast cover art and the key elements that help attract new listeners. Plus, for those seeking feedback, I’m offering free episode evaluations to help you polish your podcast and engage your audience effectively. I’ll also give some advice on crafting standout guest pitches, from aligning with the show’s vibe to offering unique value.
🌟 Exciting News! 🌟
I’m thrilled to introduce my referral program! If you refer someone to iRonick Media who becomes a client, you’ll receive 10% of the sale. So, if you know someone considering a podcast or needing support with their current one, I’d love to connect with them. Thanks for helping to spread the word!
😁Let’s Face It: Podcast Cover Art
When searching for a new podcast to listen to, cover art is more than just an image; it’s the first impression listeners get and can play a major role in whether they hit “play.” According to the latest State of Business Podcasting 2024 report, a significant 73% of top business podcasts feature the host’s face on their cover. This trend highlights a strategic choice many podcasters make to stand out and connect with their audience. But what are the actual advantages of using your face on the cover art? Here are a few key reasons:
🤝Personal Connection
Faces create familiarity. When listeners see a person rather than a logo or icon, it establishes a more intimate connection. Familiarity with the host’s face can make listeners feel like they “know” you, creating a bond that fosters loyalty over time. This sense of connection can be especially valuable when building a community around your podcast.
👀Visual Standout
With thousands of podcasts vying for attention, standing out is essential. A well-composed photo of the host’s face can make your cover pop in a sea of graphics, icons, and text. When potential listeners browse through podcast directories, a face can create curiosity, drawing them in more effectively than other types of designs.
🌟Brand Recognition
For those aiming to establish a personal brand or position themselves as a thought leader in their niche, using their face on the cover art creates strong brand recognition. Associating a face with the podcast ties the content to the host, building credibility and reinforcing the show’s alignment with their personal brand and expertise.
We discussed this and more on last Friday’s episode of the Podcasting Morning Chat . Listen in and let me know your thoughts!
🎙️ Free Podcast Episode Evaluations! 🎙️
Looking for feedback on your podcast?
I’m excited to offer FREE podcast episode evaluations to help you refine and amplify your content! 🎧✨
I’ll provide feedback on:
- Audio/Video Quality: Tips to polish your sound 🎛️
- Content Flow: Ideas to keep listeners engaged from start to finish 📝
- Editing & Structure: Suggestions for a smoother, more professional episode 🛠️
This evaluation is a chance to get a fresh perspective on your work—totally free!
👉 Only 6 spots available
How to Submit Your Episode for a Free Evaluation:
- Follow @marcronick on Instagram and Youtube to stay connected!
- Share an episode link
- Spotify, Apple, or other platforms
- Include a brief description of your episode and any specific areas where you’d like feedback.
- Describe your target audience
- Age, gender, background, occupation, etc
- Confirm submission by checking your email
Deadline to submit:
11:59 EST on November 22nd, 2024
Limit one episode (30-45min) per podcaster.
🙋Create a Guest Pitch That Stands Out
Let’s talk about something that’s all too common in the podcasting world: guest pitches that fall flat. If you’re a podcast host, you’ve likely seen it all—messages that ramble, pitches that feel like copy-paste jobs, or introductions that don’t fit the tone or theme of your show. On the flip side, if you’re trying to get on someone’s podcast, there’s nothing more disheartening than hitting “send” on your pitch and hearing…crickets.
So what separates the pitches that get a green light from the ones that go straight to the trash?
1️⃣ Know the Show
This might sound like a no-brainer, but you’d be amazed at how many pitches miss this crucial first step. When you show genuine familiarity with the podcast, its audience, and its message, it shines through. Think about it: why would a podcast host want a guest who doesn’t even know what they’re all about? Mention a theme that resonates with you, point out an episode that stood out, or even comment on a specific value the podcast brings to its listeners.
2️⃣Offer Specific Value
Here’s a key distinction that can make or break a pitch: don’t just say why you’re a good fit—prove it! Why should this podcast’s audience care about what you bring to the table? What specific insights, stories, or expertise do you offer that’s going to grab their attention? When you can pinpoint exactly how you’ll bring value, you’re well on your way to getting a host’s attention. Remember, a generic pitch can get lost in the shuffle, but a tailored pitch can be the ticket to “You’re In!”
3️⃣Start Strong and End with Intention
Let’s face it: attention spans are short, and inboxes are full. Start with a short, snappy intro that sets the tone. Be respectful but confident, and show some personality! And for the close—end with a clear call to action. Make it easy for the host to respond by being direct about next steps. Are you asking for a quick call to discuss? Or should they just reply to let you know if they’re interested? Make it clear and compelling.
🏆Thoughtfulness Goes a Long Way
If there’s one thing to remember, it’s that a little extra thoughtfulness in your pitch can set you miles apart from the rest. The time you spend crafting a pitch that feels personal, relevant, and intentional is the difference between getting deleted and getting invited on the show.
Now, for all you podcast hosts out there—what are the biggest red flags you look for in guest pitches? Would love to hear your thoughts!
🎙️Podcasting Morning Chat Highlights🌅
Welcome to your essential morning brew of ideas and insights, the “Podcasting Morning Chat” is a daily show that’s by creators, for creators. A dynamic team of experienced podcasters, entrepreneurs, and producers hosts the PMC. Each episode peels back the curtain on the art of podcasting and content creation. The conversation is a mix of insights, stories, and strategies, tailor-made to keep your content fresh, your audience engaged, and your creative spark alive.
Recorded live every weekday at 7 AM EST on Clubhouse and available via podcast at 7 AM PST, our show has become a cornerstone for podcasters worldwide, offering a unique blend of expert advice, real-world success stories, and innovative ideas. Whether you’re here to enhance your content, expand your audience, or just soak in the collective wisdom of fellow content creators, the PMC is your source for inspiration, empowerment and connection in the podcasting world.
Catch up with the latest episodes and join our global community of creators to kick-start your day with creativity, strategy, and insight.
- November 7th, 2024: Episode #189: Podcast News: Video Ads Rising & FTC Takes Action Against Fake Reviews
- November 8th, 2024: Episode #190: Podcaster Questions from the Mailbag & Celebrating Weekly Wins
- November 12th, 2024: Episode #191: Should You Keep Posting This Holiday Season?
- November 13th, 2024: Episode #192: Podcast News: Apple’s Holiday Delay Warning & Rode’s Smallest Mic Release
- November 14th, 2024: Episode #193: Delegation, Data, and Storytelling: Secrets to Podcast Success with Seth Silvers
I’m so grateful to be connected with you and a part of your podcast journey.
All My Best,
👋Marc Ronick
