Let’s Make Your Small Podcast a BIG Podcast
But first, let's get real about podcasting.
If you're like most podcasters, you put a ton of work into your podcast, but there’s little to show for it.
Sure, you’ve got a few listeners, at least you think you do, but no real fans.
You started your podcast because:
- You want to spread an important message
- You want to share your passion
- You want to get more customers for your business
It's easy to plug in a mic and record something. But getting people to listen to your podcast isn't that simple.
If you’re spinning your wheels and not getting anywhere with your podcast,
isn’t it time to rethink what you’re doing?
If you like my podcast, newsletter, and books about podcasting, you’ll love Big Podcast AMP.
Big Podcast AMP is where serious podcasters come when they need help growing their audiences and making money via their podcasts (and other audio-oriented work).
Which Type of Podcaster are You?
Big Podcast AMP was designed for three types of podcasters ...
You have an existing business and use podcasting as a marketing tool.
Smart move.
The internet and social media has presented business owners with great opportunities to market their businesses. Unfortunately though, because prospective customers are overwhelmed with email, social media, and other forms of communication, it’s easy for your marketing message to get lost.
A strong podcast will solidify your brand and help your business stand out from the competition. It will showcase your business in a way that allows you to build rapport and long-term relationships with prospective customers and make you “the obvious choice” for when they’re ready to buy.
Podcasting works as a marketing tool for any business. A successful podcast will establish your authority and allow you to reach an entirely new audience, marketing your business in a way that doesn’t feel like marketing.
You’re a coach, consultant, doctor, expert, or entertainer.
A podcast is a great way to do this! Beyond that, it’s the ultimate lead generator for people with talent and expertise.
Imagine this — you do the “work” once and tens of thousands of people experience it. That’s exactly how a successful podcast works!
Beyond showcasing your talent and expertise, you’ll get an additional credibility boost by being seen as a media star. Even if nothing else changes about your business, this will allow you to charge more for the exact same services you’re already providing.
You’re somebody who wants to see change in the world — a pastor, activist, or community organizer.
Like a business, it’s easy for your message to get lost. And by having a podcast, you’re on the right path to make sure you (and your message) are heard.
To spread your message effectively though, it must be heard in a certain way (and by the right people). It needs to be easy to access and easy to understand.
Podcasting offers both solutions to help you spread your message. A successful podcast is easy to access and the message is said in a way that effectively engages the right audience, so people not only take your message to heart, they also spread it themselves.
Podcasting is the ultimate vehicle to help you spread your message. With virtually unlimited distribution, it will allow you to reach new people in a cost-effective way with the unfiltered message you want people to hear.
AMP = Audio Monetization Program
Here's how it works ...
THIS ISN'T FOR EVERYBODY.
Big Podcast AMP is for people who want more. If you’re looking to dive head-first into growing your podcast audience, want to personally work with me, and want to be instantly connected to other podcasters who are working just as hard as you are, you’re in the right place.
You don’t have to be full-time with your podcast to be part of Big Podcast AMP, but to get the most from it, you’re going to need to jump in and get your hands dirty.
This isn’t a “magic bullet” (but it’s pretty close).
If you do what I say, you’ll grow your audience and get more attention for your podcast. You’ll make money with your voice and with your message. And if you want to go full-time, that can happen as well.
Let me be clear: You don’t have be perfect. You don’t have to always “have it together.” But you do have to be willing to do what it takes to improve yourself and your podcast.
Not every podcaster is ready to do what it takes to create a successful podcast (or business behind that podcast). To do these things, you have to move outside your current comfort zone. And that takes guts.
Additionally, if you’re a “clutch your pearls” type of person, you’ll be better off elsewhere. In Big Podcast AMP, we're open-minded, we take chances, and we get messy.
Unsure if Big Podcast AMP is for you? Read this ...
Otherwise, skip it!
If some (or all) of the items below are important to you and you're open to working with a diverse group of poeple, you're a good match for Big Podcast AMP ...
1. Community Engagement: Fostering a strong and engaged community around your podcast, encouraging listener interaction, and building a loyal fan base.
2. Educational Impact: Providing valuable educational content and sharing important knowledge with listeners, aiming to educate, inform, and inspire them via your podcast episodes.
3. Thought Leadership: Establishing yourself as a thought leader via your podcast, offering listeners your unique insights, perspectives, and expertise on your topic of choice.
4. Collaboration and Networking: Collaborating with other podcasters, industry experts, and influencers to create joint episodes, cross-promote each other's shows, and expanding your network within (and beyond) the podcasting community.
5. Personal Growth and Development: Continuously improving your podcasting skills, honing your interviewing and storytelling abilities, and staying updated with industry trends and best practices.
6. Social Impact and Advocacy: Using your podcast as a platform to raise awareness and advocate for social causes, promote positive change, and address important issues impacting society.
7. Creative Expression: Expressing your creativity through podcasting, experimenting with different formats, styles, and storytelling techniques to deliver compelling and unique content.
8. Building a Brand: Developing a recognizable and influential podcast brand, building brand equity, and creating a strong brand identity that resonates with your target audience.
9. Partnerships and Sponsorships: Collaborating with relevant brands, securing sponsorships, and forming partnerships that align with your podcast's values and enhance the experience of your listeners.
10. Personal Fulfillment: Finding joy, fulfillment, and a sense of purpose in creating meaningful content, connecting with listeners, and leaving a positive impact on your audience's lives.
Who does this guy think he is?!
About David Hooper
My background is in entertainment industry marketing, mostly music. That's how I got involved with radio.
My introduction with podcasting was a fluke. In 2005, in order to market myself and my company, I started an interview-format broadcast radio show about the music business. To increase awareness for the show, episodes were also released online, as a podcast.
That "podcast" was when I saw the opportunity — the same thing I’d previously seen in the music business, then in the film business, and later in book publishing business was happening with radio. Online distribution would soon be overpowering traditional (in this case broadcast and satellite) distribution.
I was right. Today, around 144,000,000 Americans listen to podcasts each month. And that’s a big opportunity for you.
Why Me – A Unique Perspective That Gets Results
Marketing is my passion and I'm hands-on. Since 1995, I’ve been heavily involved in all aspects of media marketing and creation, doing everything from booking talent for major motion pictures, to music supervision and licensing for both film and television, to nationwide product launches and advertising campaigns.
This unique combination of media creation and marketing is why people love working with me. Because I’ve been on the frontlines as both a creator and marketer, I’m able to see media from both sides — as a marketing tool and also as art.
You’ve heard my work on broadcast radio, seen it in big screen movie theaters, and watched it on both cable and network television. I’ve worked in the live event space, personally producing and marketing over 1000 live events, from music, to comedy, to seminars.
I get results for the people I work for. And I can do the same for you.
100% Independent – Just Like You
Not a big corporation? Me neither. I’m an in-the-trenches guy with my own independent podcast, just like you. I play with my own money and live or die based on my own marketing decisions.
Probably worth mentioning ...
I wrote the book on podcasting.
Actually a few. The one of the photo, the book on podcasting, is the first in a series of three.
Look at how beat up it is. I love that!
Making a podcast is like writing a book – it's messy. Yeah, the final product people receive looks good and sounds nice, but the process of creation is anything but.
Have you ever admired roses? I have some growing in front of my house,
Roses aren't for the faint of heart. For one, there are thorns, which, like tiny daggers, will pierce your skin if don't respect them ... and even if you do.
Do you know what makes for great roses? Pruning.
Pruning is messy, too, almost violent. And your "roses" look awful for a while, with everything cut to the nub.
But like a podcast, or a book, or your life, you've got to get rid of the dead weight to let the beautiful parts grow. Which is exactly what I'm going to help you do with your podcast.
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People are talking ...
Comments on David, his books, and his work ...
Enough about me.
Let's talk about you and "The Big Lie" of podcasting ...
Have you ever had somebody pitch you a "network marketing" (also known as MLM) opportunity? It's happened to me several times.
A few years ago, I was staying at the same hotel where there was a "pills, potions, and lotions" company giving presentations to sign up new people. Each promised prospects unlimited income, eternal happiness, and an opportunity to "be your own boss."
I was at there for few days and they were too, so I got the see these "pep rallies" a few times. Each time I'd walk by their conference room, I'd see people jumping up and down to loud music, listening to motivational speakers, and shouting money affirmations.
"I am a money magnet!!" [BOOM! BOOM! BOOM!]
"I am feeling money flow through me!!" [BOOM! BOOM! BOOM!]
That's how they'd get people hooked.
Podcasting is similar ...
The fantasy of podcasting is much different than the reality of podcasting.
It can be lonely, because most of the work we do is alone. And we work in silos – we talk to listeners and our guests, but rarely each other.
Connecting with other podcasters is another huge benefit of Big Podcast AMP ...
A SUPPORTIVE COMMUNITY
Don't podcast alone.
While podcasting can feel isolating and lonely, it doesn't have to be. With Big Podcast AMP, you'll surround yourself with like-minded people, fellow podcasters, and marketing experts. You'll gain a network that will not only keep you motivated, but also ensure you stay on track and continue making progress with your podcast.
SUPERCHARGE YOUR PODCAST GROWTH
Unlock valuable marketing knowledge.
Gain valuable insights from a vibrant community of podcasters and marketing experts who possess firsthand knowledge of what it really takes to create and maintain a successful podcast. Don't reinvent the wheel! Propel your podcast forward with proven strategies used by those who have successfully navigated similar paths.
EXPAND YOUR PROFESSIONAL NETWORK
Connect with podcasters working just as hard as you are.
Create meaningful connections and build enduring relationships. Within the Big Podcast AMP community, members frequently collaborate by featuring each another on their podcasts, YouTube channels, and newsletters, creating not only valuable exposure for themselves, but also new business opportunities.
A "Safe Space" for Podcasters.
I know, I know ... but hear me out.
The world is dangerous, especially when you speak your mind. Because of this, podcasting is dangerous.
Every time you publish an episode of your podcast, you open yourself to criticism and negativity.
Still, I created Big Podcast AMP as a place where you won't have to deal with jerks. We don't judge you based on race, religion, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, neurodiversity, and physical abilities.
We will judge your podcast ... but only in service of you, your audience, and your message. And only if you ask.
Big Podcast AMP is a place where you can unleash your true feelings regarding the ups and downs of your podcasting journey. Members recognize the whirlwind of feelings that comes with podcasting, because we're right there with you, each of us aboard this same thrilling ride.
This means you are safe to:
- Show up as you are.
- Ask questions freely, share personal information, explore new concepts, engage in challenges, discuss real issues.
- Speak your truth, give feedback, and challenge other members.
We take both your privacy and safety very seriously. Everything shared within Big Podcast AMP stays here.
Let's work together on your podcast!
Subscribe to Big Podcast AMP and Get Access to:
1:1 PODCAST AND MARKETING COACHING
Personally work with me to grow your podcast ...
I designed Big Podcast AMP as a cost-effective way for me to personally work with independent podcasters.
Several times each month, I get together with Big Podcast AMP members for live, interactive video calls, giving you plenty of access to me and the exact help you need to grow your podcast, spread your message, and make money with your voice.
PRIVATE MEMBER FORUM
24/7 access to get you the podcasting help you need now ...
Connect and collaborate with other Big Podcast AMP members from around the world, all working together to build bigger podcasts.
This forum, like the interactive video calls, is a "safe space" for podcasters and everything shared here, stays here. It's a "No Judgment Zone" where you'll find podcasters who understand the rollercoaster of what you're doing, because we're here too.
COHORT-BASED PODCAST AND MARKETING TRAINING
Conquer big podcasting goals, working alongside podcasters just like you ...
Goals like:
- Jumpstarting a new (or stuck) podcast
- Launching (and re-launching) your podcast
- Better interviewing skills
- Improving your co-Hosting skills
- Solo podcasting skills
- High-level guest outreach and booking
- Narrative non-fiction production
- Attracting sponsors to your podcast (and getting maximum money)
Designed to stay small.
BIG Podcast AMP is designed to be small (and stay small) ...
Contrary to all those spam emails in your inbox, "bigger" isn't always better.
I've been part of small communities and big ones. I used to own the second-largest music conference in the country, right behind SXSW, showcasing as many as 450 acts each year.
You lose something when things get too big. It's very easy to lose the "closeness" that made what you created special.
So I've decided to keep Big Podcast AMP small – just 200 podcasters. Big enough for members to have a solid group of people to learn and connect with, but small enough to develop personal and meaningful relationships that go beyond podcasting.
Once Big Podcast AMP hits 200 members, the doors close. If you want in, you'll have to wait until somebody leaves.
Let's grow together.
My offer for you ...
Big Podcast AMP is new ... sort of. I'm building it on the remnants of another group, so some members have been with me for years.
Note that I use the word "building" instead of "built." This is a work in progress, not something that's already complete.
Don't get me wrong, Big Podcast AMP is solid, but I'm still working out some of the finer details and much of what I want to add to the program isn't there yet.
Because of this, I'm going to give you a "founding member" rate to join now. And you can keep this rate as long as you stay a member. It's my way of thanking you for joining me early in the process.
Here are three FAQ-style answers (to questions I know you're asking):
- If you're on the fence about my longevity or knowledge about podcasting, please review the free (podcast/newsletter) and low-cost (books) material that I have available before you sign up for Big Podcast AMP. I want you to feel good about working with me.
- Big Podcast AMP will be here in the future, so there's no rush for you to join today. But do note that "founding member" rates are temporary and the 200-member cap is real.
- There are no payment plans, monthly rates, or refunds. I've purposely kept pricing for Big Podcast AMP affordable and offer only annual billing to help build a group of committed podcasters.
If you're ready ...
BECOME A FOUNDING MEMBER OF BIG PODCAST AMP
TAKE ADVANTAGE OF SPECIAL "FOUNDING MEMBER" PRICING AND BONUSES ...
Your Podcast, Reinvented
The next year is going to pass regardless. Become a member of Big Podcast AMP now to create the podcast you and your audience deserve with:
"FOUNDING MEMBER" SPECIAL
$600
/ year
Bonus Training:
- Big Podcast Blueprint ($2000 value)
- How to Get Your Podcast on Broadcast Radio
- Podcast Review Blueprint
- Magnetic Mini-Pitch Formula
FOUNDING MEMBER BONUS
Complete Access to Big Podcast Blueprint
As a founding member of Big Podcast AMP, I want to to overdeliver on your experience with me.
Big Podcast Blueprint is a 90-day program to get your podcast up to speed and additional training to help you develop a business around that podcast. It's designed to help you build a profitable podcast that will spread your message and increase your authority.
This is the exact same training that other podcasters have paid as much as $2000 for. And you'll get it free when you become a member of Big Podcast AMP.
Take a Look Inside Big Podcast Blueprint
MODULE 01
THE FOUNDATION OF A SUCCESSFUL PODCAST
In this module, you’ll get the big picture of what you’ll be accomplishing in this program. Together, we’ll walk through the step-by-step system you'll be following to create a podcast that will attract new listeners to you and your message, boost your authority as an expert (and celebrity) in your field, and be a calling card for you and your business. You’ll learn how to get the most out of Big Podcast Blueprint and take advantage of the current podcasting opportunity.
This module lays the groundwork for our time together and will make the process you’ll go through to create a BIG PODCAST run smoothly.
MODULE 02
BUILDING A PODCAST THAT WILL ATTRACT A BIG AUDIENCE
Lots of people start a podcast, but can’t sustain the work it takes to keep one going. They start strong, only to fade away after a few episodes. Or they get going in the wrong direction, wasting their time and jeopardizing good results in the future.
This module will set you up to win at podcasting. You’ll establish the foundation you need to successfully attract the right audience, build a big podcast, and make money while spreading your message.
MODULE 03
HOW TO MAKE YOUR PODCAST STAND OUT AND GET ATTENTION
There's a specific way of communicating the value of your podcast that will make people want to listen and subscribe. If you don’t know how to do it, your podcast marketing efforts will fall flat. You’ll be spinning your wheels doing outreach, but never attracting listeners (or money) as a result.
In this module, you’ll learn how to design the podcast people want and expertly communicate the value you bring, so listeners will be excited to subscribe. You’ll discover what listeners really want from you (not what you think they want) and how to stand out from the competition.
MODULE 04
ESTABLISHING YOURSELF AS THE GO-TO EXPERT AND "CELEBRITY" PEOPLE WANT TO LISTEN TO
You are the driving force behind your podcast. And you are the reason why people listen (or don’t).
Positioning yourself as a "celebrity" will jumpstart your podcast's success. It’s a fact — celebrities get paid more (for the exact same work as non-celebrities) and have people waiting to work with them. And making this happen for yourself is easier than you think.
Does the word "celebrity" scare you? Fine. We can get you a similar result using "expert" positioning. Not only will you make more money, it will make growing your podcast so much easier.
But it's going to take more than just expert knowledge of your market to get you where you want to go. "Skilled but boring" podcast hosts are a dime a dozen!
In this module, we'll work on both background and foreground marketing elements to position you as the obvious and only choice for people to listen to (and hire).
MODULE 05
STRUCTURING YOUR PODCAST TO KEEP PEOPLE LISTENING
A strong podcast brand will help you stand out from the competition and attract listeners to your podcast – it's a "foot in the door."
But you need more than casual listeners to have a big podcast. You need dedicated listeners who keep listening and tell their friends about you.
There are a lot of moving parts within your podcast episodes and we’ll work together to make sure all of them are moving in sync in a way that keeps listeners engaged and talking about you. We’ll go deep into the structure of your podcast (and its episodes) to make sure these elements fit together and people keep listening.
MODULE 06
FINDING QUALITY GUESTS FOR YOUR PODCAST
This module covers all things interview-related. You’ll learn about the proper way to approach guests, how to connect with high-profile and celebrity guests, and interview negotiation. Every aspect of the interview process is covered, from your initial approach, to getting a good interview on tape, to exactly what to do after you’ve recorded an interview.
Are you over-preparing for interviews? Maybe. If so, I can help you. You'll also learn what to do when you get in tricky situations, such as your guest standing you up, not being prepared, or lying about his qualifications to get on your podcast.
I share my secrets to getting a good interview learned after doing 1500+ podcast and radio episodes. You’ll learn how to turn down guests who aren't a match for your podcast. I'll give you "interview alternatives" for when a guest flakes on you or you turn a potential guest down.
MODULE 07
BOOKING QUALITY GUESTS & DOING INTERVIEWS THAT ATTRACT LISTENERS
Great guests can make a podcast. Already-popular guests can bring thousands (or even tens of thousands) of existing fans with them.
But the opposite is true. If you book the wrong guests, you'll actually repel listeners.
This module is about booking podcast guests that matter. You'll learn how to set yourself up to win before the interview even starts and build "instant rapport" with even the biggest celebrities.
How do pro radio hosts get such "smooth" interviews that flawlessly tell their guest's stories? I'll show you.
From your guest introduction, to the final question you ask, I'll show you have to deliver interviews that make people pay attention to your podcast.
MODULE 08
HOW TO LAUNCH (AND RELAUNCH) YOUR PODCAST
Marketing your podcast matters. "Release it and have it go viral" is a myth. If you see a podcast that's doing well, it’s because that podcast has great marketing.
When you have your podcast marketing in order, you’ll see steady growth with measurable download numbers, subscribers, and community engagement. To get you to that point, I'm going to work with you on launching (or relaunching) your podcast in a big way.
MODULE 09
KEEPING YOUR PODCAST ON TOP – ONGOING PROMOTION AND MARKETING FOR YOUR PODCAST
Promotion and marketing of your podcast should never end. Because of this, we'll talk about ongoing options for continuously bringing new listeners to your podcast and engaging them in a way that makes them want to join the community around your podcast.
There's no one-size-fits-all marketing method for podcasts. Every podcaster has a unique style of marketing that best fits his particular business and personality. This is your "Magic Marketing Method" and I’ll help you uncover yours.
In this module, I’ll walk you through the most effective online marketing methods for podcasts and help you find the one that will work the best for you to reach and attract new listeners for years to come. You'll tap into your individual talents and skills so that marketing becomes an enjoyable process for you … never a drag.
MODULE 10
HOW TO BUILD (AND ENGAGE) A BIG PODCAST COMMUNITY
You've started to bring in new listeners to your podcast… Now what?
Just like promotion and marketing of your podcast should never end, neither should building (and engaging) your podcast community.
In this module, we'll go through proven methods for turning listeners into engaged fans. You'll learn how to build community among listeners and make them feel part of something important, with your podcast at the center of everything.
As a bonus, you’ll learn how your podcast audience can actually take over your marketing and content-creation responsibilities for you. And why they'll do these things for free.
THE "TRIPLE-THREAT" BONUS
Subscribe to Big Podcast AMP and Get Access to:
BONUS #1
How to Get Your Podcast on Broadcast Radio
Podcasting is a great way to reach people, but if you want to reach a lot of people, broadcast radio is the way to go. Every week, on the flagship station alone, my show is heard by 60,000 people.
I can show you how to do the same. I'll share the pitch I used to get my foot in the door at the flagship station, what i did to get people there on board, and how we've gotten affiliate stations to pick up the show. I'll also show you how to get "instant syndication" for your radio show and make money from your very first episode.
BONUS #2
Podcast Review Blueprint
Great reviews of your podcast (and of you) are essential to your success because they increase your personal credibility, build trust with sponsors and business partners, and enhance the value of your podcast. The Podcast Review Blueprint gives you a proven system and script for getting powerful results-based reviews from your happy listeners … and shows you how to showcase these reviews in your marketing material for maximum impact.
BONUS #3
Magnetic Mini-Pitch Formula
If you can’t explain your podcast (or what you do) to other people, you’re going to have a really hard time getting listeners, sponsors, and clients. The Magnetic Mini Pitch Formula is a fill-in-the-blank system you can use to create a compelling elevator speech that grabs attention, piques interest, and expertly conveys the value of what you do.