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    About this Episode

    Learn how to create and repurpose content for TikTok, as it relates to podcasting.

    My guest today is Melissa Hughes, a TikTok influencer, international speaker and best selling author.

    She has been booked twice on The Kelly Clarkson Show and featured for the New York Times Best Seller “Primal Scream” on NBC. She has over 238,000 followers on TikTok with over 9 million likes. She is also a best selling author of a book She Can Laugh along with a children’s book called, “Mommy Loves You When”. She has also done missionary work in the UK for several years with her husband and two children.

    In this episode, Melissa will share her expert insights on how to create and repurpose content for TikTok as it relates to podcasting. She'll cover topics such as the importance of starting with a hook, what to do if you don't have one, the importance of knowing your content strategy, and how to measure your TikTok metrics. 

    We'll also dive into the importance of creation over perfection, how to compose a TikTok video, and tips for repurposing your podcast content for TikTok. And as always, Melissa will share her top tips for optimizing your TikTok bio and using a call to action.

    So if you're looking to up your TikTok game and leverage the platform for your podcast, this is the episode for you. Let's dive in with Melissa Hughes.

     

    Learn about:

    • [0:00] Intro
    • [2:00] Why you should always start with the hook
    • [4:55] What to do if you don't have a 'hook'
    • [7:15] Creation over perfection 
    • [9:55] How to compose a TikTok video
    • [12:35] Tips to repurpose podcast content for TikTok
    • [15:15] The importance of knowing your content strategy
    • [18:30] Always using a call to action
    • [19:55] How to optimize your TikTok bio
    • [20:35] Tips to measure TikTok metrics

     

    Want more? Join me on Patreon for exclusive content, bonus Q&As, and binge the episodes before they go live. Become a Patron here: https://www.patreon.com/asitrelatestopodcasting

    Resources mentioned in this episode:

     

    Connect with Melissa here: 

     

    Connect with Simona here:

    Recent Episodes from As It Relates to Podcasting

    Get More Podcast Downloads with Paid Ads with Megan Shields

    Get More Podcast Downloads with Paid Ads with Megan Shields

    In today's digital age, podcasting has become a powerful medium for sharing stories, information, and knowledge with a global audience. However, with the increasing popularity of podcasts, it has become crucial for podcasters to find innovative ways to grow their audience and stand out in a crowded market. One effective strategy that many podcasters are turning to is leveraging paid ads to expand their reach and visibility.

    In this episode, Megan Shields and I dive into the power of paid ads. Megan, a paid ads expert specializing in podcast advertising, shares valuable insights on how podcasters can effectively use paid ads to grow their audience and elevate their podcasting journey.

    Podcast Success Vault:
    The Podcast Success Vault, a new membership by VOLT Productions, offers podcasters a lifeline for starting, growing, and monetizing their shows. From simplifying the podcasting journey to providing comprehensive resources and expert guidance, the membership aims to empower podcasters at every stage of their podcasting career.

    Fundamentals of Paid Ads for Podcasts:
    Megan delves into the fundamentals of leveraging paid ads for podcasts, emphasizing the importance of understanding the strategy behind using ads to enhance audience growth. She discusses the significance of setting up essential elements such as business manager accounts, Facebook pixels, and audience targeting for effective ad campaigns.

    Knowledge Gap and Intimidation Factor:
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    Ad Spend and Strategy:
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    Launching Phase and Campaign Objectives:
    Megan explores the idea of leveraging paid ads during the launch phase of a podcast, recommending the use of signup pages and waitlists to build an email list for future engagement. She also discusses the importance of testing different ad strategies, from directing traffic to websites to promoting specific podcast episodes, to optimize audience engagement and conversion.

    As podcasting continues to evolve as a prominent form of content creation, leveraging paid ads has become a strategic imperative for podcasters looking to expand their reach and amplify their message. Megan Shields' insights shed light on the potential of paid ads in driving podcast growth and engagement, offering a roadmap for podcasters to navigate the realm of advertising with confidence and clarity.

    Learn about:

    • 0:00 Intro

    • 0:20 Podcast Success Vault

    • 3:27 Why leverage podcast ads specifically

    • 5:03 Is there a knowledge gap about paid ads especially with DIY podcasters

    • 8:14 How to set up your Facebook and Instagram accounts for ads

    • 10:37 Understanding Meta’s Pixel

    • 11:57 Experience with boosting posts

    • 15:19 Does Facebook give you good guidance when it comes to ads

    • 16:44 Where to run ads to

    • 20:23 Can you leverage ads in the launch phase of your podcast

    • 21:18 Figuring out Ad Spend

     

    Resources:


    Connect with Megan here:

     

    Connect with Simona here:

    5 Podcast Production Resources you Need ASAP

    5 Podcast Production Resources you Need ASAP

    Are you a podcaster looking to simplify your processes, grow your reach, make a bigger impact, and have more listener retention and overall growth? In this episode, I'll be sharing with you five of my favorite resources for podcasters that I swear by and absolutely live by. These resources have helped me streamline my podcasting journey, and I am confident they will do the same for you.

    But before we dive into these amazing resources, I have some exciting news to share with you. My agency, Volt Productions, has undergone a complete rebrand! We have a brand new name, new website, new programs, new offers, new everything. This rebrand is the next step in our journey to becoming a household name in the podcasting space. I invite you to check out our new website, explore our programs and offers, and share them with other creators you love. Our goal is to empower podcasters like you to bring their message to the mic and make a massive impact.

    Now, let's jump into the resources that will revolutionize your podcasting process:

    1. Analytics Report Tracker: 

    Have you ever wanted a better way to track the growth of your podcast? Our analytics report tracker takes your hosting platform's analytics to the next level. With this template, you can easily visualize the growth of your show month over month, year over year, and quarter over quarter. It provides insights into who's listening to your podcast, identifies your top-performing episodes, and helps you tailor your content strategy for maximum impact. By understanding your listeners' trends and behaviors, you can optimize your monetization strategy and uncover any tech issues that may be hindering listener engagement.

    2. Show Notes Template:

    Show notes are a crucial part of every episode, providing your listeners with a preview of what to expect. Our show notes template ensures consistency in formatting, saves you time, and enhances your search engine visibility. SEO-optimized show notes make your episodes more discoverable to potential new listeners and encourage deeper engagement. With a well-structured show note, you can include valuable resources, links, and summaries, enriching your listeners' experience and encouraging them to take further action.

    3. Production Schedule Template:

    Keeping track of your podcasting workflow is essential for maintaining consistency and maximizing efficiency. Our production schedule template allows you to plan and organize your recording, editing, and release dates. It ensures you have a consistent publishing cadence, which is crucial for retaining listeners. Whether you publish monthly, twice a month, weekly, or daily, this template helps you stay accountable and frees up valuable time by eliminating guesswork. It also facilitates team collaboration, ensuring everyone is aligned and aware of their roles and responsibilities.

    4. Guest and Brand Email Pitch Templates:

    Reaching out to potential guests and sponsors can be time-consuming, but our email pitch templates make the process a breeze. These professionally crafted templates provide a structured approach and save you precious time. With a well-crafted email, you can make a great first impression, improve response rates, and clearly communicate the value proposition you offer to potential collaborators. These templates will boost your podcast appearances and increase your sponsorship opportunities.

    5. Social Media Templates: 

    Building a cohesive online presence for your podcast is crucial for attracting and engaging your audience. Our social media templates, available in different styles, allow you to create stunning graphics effortlessly. By aligning your social media posts with your podcast brand, tone, and style, you increase awareness of your show and convert social media followers into regular listeners. These templates save you time and eliminate the guesswork in designing eye-catching visuals, enabling you to focus on what you love most.

    These resources are just a glimpse of what awaits you in our Podcast Success Vault. Join us and gain access to a treasure trove of invaluable resources that will simplify and amplify your podcasting journey. To celebrate our new rebrand, we are offering a special price of $27 a month for the first three months. Don't miss out on this opportunity to boost your podcasting journey and connect with a community of like-minded creators.

    Simplifying your podcasting processes and amplifying your reach is within reach. These five resources will equip you with the tools necessary to streamline your podcasting workflow, engage your audience, and make a lasting impact. We invite you to check out our Podcast Success Vault and embark on a journey of podcasting success. Remember, when podcasting becomes easier, your message can shine brighter.

    Learn about:

    • 0:00 Intro

    • 1:28 VOLT Rebrand

    • 2:39 Podcast Success Vault Membership

    • 4:55 Analytics report tracker

    • 6:29 Show Notes template

    • 7:46 Production schedule template

    • 9:32 Guest and Brand Email Pitch Templates

    • 10:45 Social Media Templates

     

    Resources:


    Connect with Simona here:

    As It Relates to Podcasting
    enFebruary 29, 2024

    How to Dominate Search and Build Relevancy for Your Podcast with Anthony Nwaneri (Part 4)

    How to Dominate Search and Build Relevancy for Your Podcast with Anthony Nwaneri (Part 4)

    Podcasting has become an increasingly popular medium for sharing information, stories, and ideas. But with the ever-growing number of podcasts available, how can you ensure that your show stands out and attracts listeners? 

    The key lies in dominating search and building relevancy. In this episode, we'll explore the strategies and techniques to help you optimize your podcast for search engines and establish your authority in your niche.

    Joining me for this conversation is Anthony Nwaneri, best selling author of the book Podcast Made Simple and the Co-host of 'Why Your Podcast Isn't Growing'.

     

    I. Understanding Podcast SEO:
    To dominate search, it's essential to understand the concept of podcast SEO (Search Engine Optimization). Podcast SEO involves optimizing your show's content, titles, and descriptions to rank higher in search engine results. By doing so, you increase your visibility and reach a wider audience. In the script, the guest, Anthony, explains the importance of podcast SEO and highlights its different aspects, such as visibility and user engagement.

    II. Building Relevancy Through Keywords:
    To build relevancy for your podcast, it's crucial to identify the keywords that are relevant to your niche and target audience. In the script, Anthony advises being intentional about the specific keywords you want to rank for. For example, if your podcast is about real estate, you may want to focus on keywords like "real estate investing," "house flipping," or "multi-family properties." By incorporating these keywords into your episode titles, show descriptions, and show notes, you're building a catalog of digital real estate that signals to search engines your expertise in these areas.

    III. The Power of Timely and Relevant Content:
    Creating timely and relevant content is another important aspect of building relevancy and dominating search. By staying up to date with industry trends and addressing topics that are currently in demand, you increase the chances of being discovered by potential listeners. The script mentions the example of launching a podcast at the beginning of the year or after the summer, which aligns with the times when individuals are more likely to start new endeavors. By tailoring your content to these specific periods, you tap into the existing demand and set yourself apart from the competition.

    IV. The Holistic Approach to Podcast SEO:
    Dominating search and building relevancy is not a one-size-fits-all approach. It requires a holistic view of podcast SEO and a focus on optimizing every touchpoint of your listener's journey. This includes elements such as attractive cover art, engaging episode titles, captivating intros and outros, and valuable content throughout. As mentioned in the script, it's not just about one magic pill, but the combination of all these factors that produces long-lasting results.

    V. The Long Game of Podcasting:
    Finally, it's important to remember that podcasting is a long game. While there may be cases of instant success, such as launching a podcast and seeing explosive growth, these instances are rare. Building a successful podcast takes time, consistency, and dedication. As explained in the script, the process of dominating search and building relevancy is unfolded over a prolonged period. Patience and persistence are key as you continuously optimize your content, engage your audience, and strive to provide value.

     

    In the ever-growing landscape of podcasting, dominating search and building relevancy are crucial for success. By understanding podcast SEO, identifying relevant keywords, creating timely content, and taking a holistic approach, you can increase your podcast's visibility, attract more listeners, and establish yourself as an authority in your niche. Remember, podcasting is a marathon, not a sprint. Stay committed to consistently delivering valuable content, and your podcast will continue to grow and thrive.

     

    Learn about:

    • 0:00 Intro

    • 2:37 What building relevancy means

    • 6:36 How to rank using keywords

    • 9:22 Do ratings and reviews help your podcast in the podcast player algorithm

    • 11:54 Earning the listen

    • 14:58 Building relevancy and the tie in with authority building

     

    Resources:

     

    Connect with Anthony:


    Connect with Simona here:

     

    As It Relates to Podcasting
    enFebruary 22, 2024

    Rank Higher on Apple and Spotify with Higher Completion Rates with Anthony Nwaneri (Part 3)

    Rank Higher on Apple and Spotify with Higher Completion Rates with Anthony Nwaneri (Part 3)

    In the competitive world of podcasts, it's not enough to just create high-quality content. To stand out and increase your visibility on platforms like Apple and Spotify, you need to focus on user engagement and boost your completion rates. In this episode, Anthony Nwaneri and I explore how you can increase your podcast's ranking by improving your completion rates on these popular platforms.

    Anthony Nwaneri is the best selling author of the book Podcast Made Simple and the Co-host of 'Why Your Podcast Isn't Growing'.

     

    After spending 3 years working hard on a degree that wasn’t taking him closer to a life he wanted, Anthony was determined to build a successful business in podcasting. Despite having zero experience in business or podcasting, he dropped out of college to go all in on a business. Fast forward to today, he's now a 2-time bestselling author and has generated multiple 6 figures with a coaching business, helping podcasters grow and monetize their shows.

    1. Understanding Completion Rates:
    First, let's clarify what completion rates actually mean. The completion rate of your podcast episode refers to the percentage of listeners who stay engaged and listen to the entire episode. For example, if you have a completion rate of 60%, it means that, on average, 60% of your listeners stay tuned in until the end. High completion rates indicate that your audience is finding value in your content and are more likely to engage further with your podcast.

    2. Importance of Completion Rates in Podcast SEO:
    Podcast search engine optimization (SEO) plays a crucial role in increasing your podcast's visibility and organic exposure on platforms like Apple and Spotify. These platforms analyze various factors to determine which shows to recommend to their users. One key factor they consider is completion rates. Higher completion rates signal that your podcast offers engaging and valuable content, making it more likely to be recommended to a wider audience.

    3. Crafting an Engaging Podcast Episode:
    To increase your completion rates and improve user engagement, there are several strategies you can implement:

       a. Start with a Powerful Hook: Grab your listeners' attention right from the start with a compelling hook. Avoid common mistakes like starting with a lengthy jingle or talking extensively about the guest. Instead, focus on creating intrigue and promising a benefit they will gain from listening to the episode.

       b. Maintain High Energy and Smiling While Speaking: Your energy and enthusiasm as the host or speaker have a significant impact on user engagement. Smile while you talk, as it can be heard in your voice and creates a more enjoyable and immersive experience for your audience.

       c. Create Open Loop Hooks: Throughout your episode, use open loop hooks to build intrigue and keep listeners engaged. Open loop hooks are questions or statements that create curiosity or a sense of unfinished business, encouraging listeners to stay tuned in to find the answers. Think of it as stringing them along with valuable and captivating information.

       d. Be Mindful of Tangents: While tangents can be interesting and add variety to your podcast episode, make sure to bring the conversation back to the main topic or the promise you made to your listeners. Strive for a balance between engaging diversions and staying on track to deliver what was promised.

    4. Importance of Episode Titles and Descriptions:
    When it comes to ranking higher on platforms like Apple and Spotify, your episode titles and descriptions play a vital role. They should be optimized for searchability and contain relevant keywords to attract your target audience. However, ensure the title accurately reflects the content of the episode to avoid misleading your listeners.

    5. Analyzing and Improving Completion Rates:
    Apple Podcasts Connect and Spotify Analytics for Podcasters offer valuable insights into your podcast's user engagement and retention time. Monitor your completion rates regularly and identify areas where listeners tend to drop off. If you notice a decline in completion rates, consider revisiting your episode intros, hooks, and overall structure to create a more compelling and engaging experience.

    Improving your podcast's completion rates is an effective way to increase your ranking on platforms like Apple and Spotify. By implementing strategies to engage your audience and consistently deliver valuable content, you can create a more immersive and captivating experience for your listeners. Remember to start with a powerful hook, maintain high energy throughout, incorporate open loop hooks, and be mindful of tangents. Additionally, optimize your episode titles and descriptions to attract the right audience. Keep analyzing your completion rates and making adjustments to continually improve your podcast's user engagement.

    Learn about:

    • 0:00 Intro

    • 2:38 What is completion rate

    • 4:10 Making sure your energy matches the title, artwork, etc. to keep the excitement for your listener

    • 6:43 Your energy when recording - making a promise to your audience and delivering on it

    • 9:41 Have a trailer or a hook at the start

    • 16:08 Do you title an episode before recording it?

    • 19:09 How to read chart rankings

     

    Resources:

     

    Connect with Anthony:


    Connect with Simona here:

     

    As It Relates to Podcasting
    enFebruary 15, 2024

    How To Increase Your Visibility on Apple & Spotify with Anthony Nwaneri (Part 2)

    How To Increase Your Visibility on Apple & Spotify with Anthony Nwaneri (Part 2)

    In today's digital age, where millions of podcasts are vying for listeners' attention, it's crucial to increase the visibility of your podcast on popular platforms like Apple Podcasts and Spotify. If you want to stand out from the crowd and attract more listeners, implementing effective strategies to boost your podcast's discoverability and visibility is essential. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into expert insights shared by Anthony, a podcasting guru, as he reveals valuable tips on how to increase your podcast visibility on Apple and Spotify.

     

    Anthony Nwaneri is the best selling author of the book Podcast Made Simple and the Co-host of 'Why Your Podcast Isn't Growing'.

     

    After spending 3 years working hard on a degree that wasn’t taking him closer to a life he wanted, Anthony was determined to build a successful business in podcasting. Despite having zero experience in business or podcasting, he dropped out of college to go all in on a business. Fast forward to today, he's now a 2-time bestselling author and has generated multiple 6 figures with a coaching business, helping podcasters grow and monetize their shows.


    1. Understanding the Importance of Visibility:
    Before diving into the strategies, it’s crucial to understand why visibility matters. Anthony highlights that being discovered is just the first step. To ensure your podcast is being clicked on and listened to over the competition, you need to optimize key elements such as your podcast's cover art, show name, episode titles, and show description.

     

    2. The Power of Cover Art:
    Anthony emphasizes the significance of a professionally designed cover art that stands out and entices potential listeners to click on your podcast. He suggests making it clean, vibrant, and minimalist, aligning it with your target audience's preferences. Analyzing competitors' cover arts can provide insights into what works and what doesn't, helping you create a cover art that sets you apart.

    3. Crafting Compelling Episode Titles:
    Episode titles play a crucial role in attracting listeners. Anthony shares a variety of approaches depending on your podcast type. For how-to podcasts, being specific, benefit-driven, and solution-focused can be highly effective. On the other hand, intriguing and curiosity-invoking titles can captivate the audience for other genres. The key is to make sure each episode's title can stand alone and provide value even without prior knowledge of the series.

    4. Optimizing Show Names:
    Similar to episode titles, your show name should convey who the podcast is for, address pain points you solve, and highlight the desired outcomes. Anthony suggests being intentional and incorporating relevant keywords while keeping the name concise and catchy. The goal is to spark curiosity and relevance in potential listeners, making them more likely to click and explore your podcast.

    5. Making the Most of Show Descriptions:
    While show descriptions might take a backseat compared to episode titles, they still hold significance. Anthony recommends focusing on show descriptions when users search for a specific podcast category, while show notes take priority when searching for a particular episode. Optimizing show descriptions involves clearly conveying the podcast's value proposition, target audience, unique selling points, and the benefits listeners can expect.

    Boosting your podcast's visibility on Apple and Spotify requires a strategic approach. By incorporating Anthony's expert tips, you can optimize key elements such as cover art, episode titles, show names, and show descriptions to captivate potential listeners and encourage them to hit that play button. Remember, turning strangers into loyal listeners requires attracting their attention, conveying value, and making your podcast stand out from the crowd. Implement these strategies, and watch your podcast gain the visibility it deserves on leading podcast platforms. 

     

    Learn about:

    • 0:00 Intro

    • 2:34 Where to start with visibility

    • 5:16 How to leverage your show description for proper SEO

    • 6:57 The importance of cover art

    • 9:21 Do you need the word ‘podcast’ in your show title?

    • 10:40 Tips to optimize each piece of the podcasting puzzle

    • 17:31 Anthony’s tips for writing show titles

    • 18:40 The formula for making your show enticing to listeners

    • 23:10 Leveraging your show name

     

    Resources:

     

    Connect with Anthony:


    Connect with Simona here:

     

    As It Relates to Podcasting
    enFebruary 08, 2024

    What is Podcast SEO and Why You Should Care with Anthony Nwaneri (Part 1)

    What is Podcast SEO and Why You Should Care with Anthony Nwaneri (Part 1)

    In the vast expanse of podcasting, and the work we do with clients within the agency, I often think about how to make sure podcasts stand out and draw more listeners. This is where podcast SEO becomes crucial. In this episode, Anthony Nwaneri joins me for a four part series that dives into podcast SEO and its importance for every podcaster.

    Anthony Nwaneri is the best selling author of the book Podcast Made Simple and the Co-host of 'Why Your Podcast Isn't Growing'.

    After spending 3 years working hard on a degree that wasn’t taking him closer to a life he wanted, Anthony was determined to build a successful business in podcasting. Despite having zero experience in business or podcasting, he dropped out of college to go all in on a business. Fast forward to today, he's now a 2-time bestselling author and has generated multiple 6 figures with a coaching business, helping podcasters grow and monetize their shows.

    Discoverability: The Power of Ranking Higher

    Anthony describes podcast SEO as a process aimed at getting your podcast to rank higher on platforms like Apple and Spotify. With millions of active monthly listeners, being discoverable on these platforms can significantly impact your podcast's growth. Anthony points out the astonishing fact that 40% of active listeners in the US use Apple and Spotify to find new podcasts.

    Why Apple and Spotify?

    Anthony explains that these podcast platforms have the largest user base and dominate the podcasting industry. By optimizing for these platforms, you increase your chances of reaching and engaging potential listeners.

    Understanding Podcast SEO: It's More Than Just Keywords

    I delve deeper into podcast SEO and ask Anthony about its various components. He emphasizes that while keywords are crucial, podcast SEO isn't just about stuffing titles and descriptions with keywords. A holistic approach is necessary, encompassing titles, cover art, show notes, and even guest names. Anthony also stresses the importance of user engagement and building relevancy in podcast SEO.

    Planning Your Podcast SEO Strategy

    Anthony and I discuss the framework for our upcoming four-episode series on podcast SEO. We identify the key components of a successful podcast SEO strategy: discoverability, visibility, user engagement, and building relevancy. This structure provides a comprehensive exploration of each aspect throughout the series.

    Getting Started: Discoverability and Keyword Research

    Anthony guides listeners on starting their podcast SEO journey. He suggests reviewing your podcast's back catalog to identify key topics or pillars of each episode. These can then be turned into search terms or keywords that align with your audience's search behavior. Anthony recommends tools like Ubersuggest for evaluating keyword popularity and search volume.

    The Role of Title Optimization and Experiments

    I highlight the importance of optimizing titles and consider the relevance of tags within hosting platforms. Anthony acknowledges that title optimization is key in podcast SEO, significantly impacting discoverability. While the importance of tags is debatable, he emphasizes the 80/20 rule, focusing mainly on episode titles for discoverability optimization.

    Experimentation and Constant Improvement

    Anthony and I agree on the importance of experimentation in podcast SEO. We discuss testing and refining episode titles, show notes, and content. Experimenting with different strategies allows podcasters to fine-tune their SEO approach and cater to their audience's preferences.

    In all, we've explored the secrets of podcast SEO and its critical role in every podcaster's success. Anthony's insights and recommendations offer actionable steps to enhance your podcast's discoverability and attract a broader audience. Dive into the world of podcast SEO and unlock your show's true potential!

     

    Learn about:

    • 0:00 Intro

    • 3:37 What is podcast SEO

    • 4:48 Why the focus on Apple and Spotify rankings

    • 5:14 What are we talking about when we talk about SEO, descriptions, titles, etc.

    • 8:30 Where do you begin with discoverability

    • 14:14 Is SEO something you see immediate results from, or is it a long game?

    • 16:04 How to pick keywords

    • 18:50 How relevant is the tag section of your hosting platform

    • 21:52 What actions can you start with for discoverability

     

    Resources:

     

    Connect with Anthony:


    Connect with Simona here:

     

    As It Relates to Podcasting
    enFebruary 01, 2024

    PR Strategies for Speaking Engagements, Book Launches, and Brand Deals with Lauren Cobello (Part 4)

    PR Strategies for Speaking Engagements, Book Launches, and Brand Deals with Lauren Cobello (Part 4)

    Welcome to the final episode of our four-part series with Lauren Cobello, the founder and CEO of Leverage with Media PR, and a renowned national TV personality, three-time bestselling author, and a prominent figure in the world of entrepreneurship and public relations. In today's episode, we dive into the key elements of creating a PR strategy and leveraging it for speaking engagements and book launches to make more money within your business and creator lifestyle.

    To start, it's essential to have a clear understanding of your message and the transformation you offer. Lauren recommends focusing on your story and why you wrote your book or started your podcast. People resonate with stories, and it helps them connect with you on a deeper level. By being authentic and sharing your journey, you can build credibility and attract brands and speaking engagements that align with your message.

    If you want to book speaking engagements, it's crucial to create a speaker reel that showcases your speaking skills and TV appearances. Include clips from your podcast or interviews, along with any local or national TV coverage you've had. For local speaking gigs, consider writing articles in local newspapers or online publications to establish yourself as an expert in your community. Platforms like East Speakers can help you connect with event organizers and showcase your expertise.

    When it comes to pricing for speaking engagements, Lauren advises having different price options, including a flat fee or a flat fee with book sales. Negotiating with event organizers to sell your books during the event can also be a great way to generate additional revenue. Research local chambers of commerce and industry-specific conferences to find speaking opportunities that align with your audience.

    Brand deals can provide additional income streams and opportunities for collaboration. Lauren suggests identifying brands that align with your message and reaching out to their influencer relations team. Showcase your TV appearances and books to highlight your expertise and value. However, it's important to note that on national television, you cannot mention a brand or get paid by a brand without proper disclosure and contracts in place.

    When pitching yourself or your book to media outlets or podcasts, avoid focusing solely on your book. Instead, share the story behind your book and the transformation it offers. Think about how you can tie your message to current trends or news topics to make your pitch more relevant. Personalize your pitches by researching the podcast or outlet you're reaching out to and consider how you can provide unique value to their audience.

    Throughout the conversation, Lauren emphasizes the importance of strategy. Writing a book or launching a podcast without a clear plan can result in missed opportunities and lackluster results. Take the time to strategize how your book or podcast fits into your overall business goals and how you can leverage PR to maximize its impact. If you need assistance, consider working with professionals who can guide you through the process.

    As a creator, monetizing your content is a common goal. By leveraging PR strategies, booking speaking engagements, and securing brand deals, you can generate additional income streams and expand your reach. Remember to focus on your story, provide unique value, and be strategic in your approach. By doing so, you can elevate your business, increase your visibility, and make more money in your creator lifestyle.

    Learn about:

    • [0:00] Intro

    • [5:31] How to use PR for speaking engagements

    • [8:14] Booking and leveraging brand deals

    • [11:35] How Lauren is using PR to book these engagements

    • [14:25] The similarities between getting your podcast visibility and getting your book out there

    • [16:15] What makes a writer a good podcast guest

    • [18:45] Newsjacking

    • [20:10] The responsibility of the author and interviewer

    • [23:25]The role AI can assist in getting your story out

     

    Resources:

     

    Connect with Lauren:


    Connect with Simona here:

     

    As It Relates to Podcasting
    enJanuary 25, 2024

    Through the Noise: Mastering Public Relations to Stand Out with Lauren Cobello (Part 3)

    Through the Noise: Mastering Public Relations to Stand Out with Lauren Cobello (Part 3)

    In today's crowded market, it can be a challenge for creators and podcasters to stand out and gain recognition. One often overlooked strategy is leveraging the power of public relations (PR). In this episode, we will explore the importance of PR in podcasting and how it can help you become a prominent figure in your industry. We will also discuss some essential tips shared by PR expert Lauren Cobello on how to make yourself the go-to person for interviews, media coverage, and podcast appearances.

    In a world where everyone is vying for attention, PR offers a unique opportunity to differentiate yourself and your brand. As we discuss in this episode, many people overlook PR as they focus on other marketing strategies. However, PR can often be the missing piece that propels you to new heights. Here are a few key reasons why PR is crucial for standing out in the crowded market:

    1. Building Brand Visibility:
    PR helps you increase your brand's visibility by securing valuable media coverage and publicity. By getting featured in national TV shows, podcasts, and social media platforms, you can reach a much broader audience and establish yourself as an expert in your field.

    2. Establishing Credibility and Trust:
    When you're featured in reputable media outlets, it adds credibility to your brand and message. People tend to trust companies or individuals who are endorsed by trusted sources. PR placements act as third-party validations, allowing you to build trust and credibility with your target audience.

    3. Expanding Your Network:
    Through PR efforts such as podcast tours, speaking engagements, and media appearances, you can connect with influencers, industry leaders, and potential clients. Building a strong network is essential for growth and opens doors to new opportunities.

    Lauren’s Tips for Standing Out in the Crowded Marketplace:

    1. Don't Talk About What Someone Else Is Already Talking About:
    One of the most valuable tips shared by Lauren is to find a unique angle or perspective when addressing a topic. Instead of discussing the same thing others are talking about, take a step back and consider how you can approach the subject differently. By offering a fresh perspective or adding a unique element to the conversation, you'll capture the interest of media outlets and audiences.

    2. Invest in Media Training:
    Being good on camera is essential for successful media appearances. Lauren emphasizes the importance of investing in media training to improve your on-screen presence. Good media training helps you develop confidence, articulate your message clearly, and engage with your audience effectively. Remember, your performance on camera can make or break your opportunity to shine.

    3. Perfect Local Television Before Aiming for National Coverage:
    While everyone dreams of appearing on national TV, it's necessary to start at the local level. Lauren advises aspiring entrepreneurs and authors to perfect their local PR strategies first. By gaining experience and exposure in your local market, you'll build your confidence and expertise, making it more likely to secure opportunities at the national level later on.

    In the ever-evolving world of entrepreneurship, standing out requires a strategic approach. Public relations offers an avenue for businesses and individuals to gain recognition, build credibility, and expand their network. By incorporating PR into your marketing strategy, you can position yourself as an authority in your field and attract media opportunities that take your brand to new heights.

    Remember, standing out in a crowded market is no easy task, but with the right PR strategy and implementation, you can rise above the noise and become the go-to person in your industry. So, don't overlook the power of PR, invest in your brand, and leverage the opportunities that arise.

    Lauren Cobello is the Founder and CEO of Leverage with Media PR, a renowned national TV personality, 3x best-selling author, and a prominent figure in the world of entrepreneurship and public relations. Lauren has been a regular lifestyle TV personality on national TV shows like The TODAY show, GMA, Dr. Oz, Rachael Ray, and hundreds of others for over a decade.

    Learn about:

    • [0:00] Intro

    • [2:51] Why you should NOT cut PR from your budget

    • [6:38] What all is encompassed by PR

    • [9:36] 3 tips for standing out in the crowded marketplace using PR

    • [12:05] Diving into the value of local, smaller, audiences

    • [14:17] Getting national coverage

    • [16:20] Picking one specialty and area of focus

    • [22:05] Misconception of publicists building their brand

     

    Resources:

     

    Connect with Lauren:

     

    Connect with Simona here:

     

    As It Relates to Podcasting
    enJanuary 19, 2024

    Building Your Brand Using Books, PR, and Speaking Gigs with Lauren Cobello (Part 2)

    Building Your Brand Using Books, PR, and Speaking Gigs with Lauren Cobello (Part 2)

    In today's digital age, building a brand requires a multifaceted approach. It is not enough to have a great product or service; you also need to establish yourself as an authority in your field. This is where leveraging books, PR, and speaking engagements can play a crucial role in brand building. In this episode, Lauren Cobello joins me to explore the strategy behind using these outlets interchangeably.

     

    1. The Power of Brand Building:
    Effective brand building goes beyond a catchy logo or tagline. It involves creating a cohesive brand identity that resonates with your target audience. According to Lauren, the branding process begins by establishing a strong brand message, developing a compelling website, and crafting a brand strategy that utilizes various outlets.

     

    2. The Role of Books in Brand Building:
    Writing a book can be a game-changer for entrepreneurs and thought leaders. Lauren shares her personal experience of how writing a book transformed her business. By strategically leveraging her book, she established herself as an authority in her field and gained media exposure. A book serves as a supporting character to your brand message, amplifying your expertise and helping you connect with a broader audience.

     

    3. The Importance of PR:
    Public relations (PR) plays an integral role in brand building. It involves creating media coverage and establishing relationships with journalists and reporters. While traditional press releases may not have the same impact they once did, they can still serve a purpose, especially during book launches. However, Lauren emphasizes that sending out a press release alone won't yield desired results. Effective PR involves actively pitching your book, speaking engagements, and leveraging media coverage to build credibility and expand your reach.



    4. Crafting a Strategic PR Timeline:
    When planning your PR strategy, timing is crucial. Lauren recommends starting your strategy at least three months before your book launch date. This allows you to identify relevant podcasts, reach out to reporters, and plan Instagram lives to create buzz around your publication. It's important to work with a professional strategist who can guide you through the process and ensure your book orders count towards bestseller lists such as USA Today or New York Times.

     

    5. Leveraging Speaking Engagements:
    Speaking engagements provide an excellent platform to showcase your expertise and gain further exposure. By combining your book, PR efforts, and speaking gigs, you can reinforce your brand message and establish yourself as a thought leader. Lauren suggests creating a sizzle reel, showcasing your media appearances, and using it to secure speaking engagements. Pre-selling bulk copies of your book to speaking engagements can also help generate book sales and drive attendees to your events.

     

    6. The Power of Strategic Alliances:
    Collaborating with speakers and authors can be mutually beneficial. Lauren highlights how authors can offer reduced speaker fees if the event organizer purchases a certain number of their books. This strategy not only helps sell more books but also attracts a larger audience to the speaking engagement.

     

    Building a brand using books, PR, and speaking gigs requires a thoughtfully crafted strategy that starts with a strong brand identity. By leveraging these outlets interchangeably, entrepreneurs and thought leaders can establish themselves as authorities in their field, amplify their message, and reach a broader audience. While it may seem overwhelming, working with a professional strategist can help you navigate the complexities of book launches, PR campaigns, and speaking engagements. With dedication, planning, and perseverance, you can create a brand that stands out and attracts a loyal following.

     

    Lauren Cobello is the Founder and CEO of Leverage with Media PR, a renowned national TV personality, 3x best-selling author, and a prominent figure in the world of entrepreneurship and public relations. Lauren has been a regular lifestyle TV personality on national TV shows like The TODAY show, GMA, Dr. Oz, Rachael Ray, and hundreds of others for over a decade.

     

    Learn about:

    • [0:00] Intro

    • [3:25] The strategy Lauren used getting published

    • [5:25] The factor that dictates if new authors fail or thrive

    • [8:48] How far in advance are you creating a PR strategy

    • [11:03] Are we still using press releases?

    • [15:01] Using your book, your PR, and speaking gigs to build your brand

    • [22:20] One thing you can start to implement now

     

    Resources:

     

    Connect with Lauren:

     

    Connect with Simona here:

    As It Relates to Podcasting
    enJanuary 11, 2024

    Why Every Creator Should Write a Book with Lauren Cobello (Part 1)

    Why Every Creator Should Write a Book with Lauren Cobello (Part 1)

    In the ever-expanding world of entrepreneurship, it's becoming increasingly important to stand out from the crowd and establish credibility. One powerful tool that every entrepreneur should consider is writing a book. In this first episode of a four-part series, Lauren Cobello joins me to explore the reasons why writing a book is beneficial for creators.

    1. Elevates Credibility and Authority:

    One of the biggest advantages of writing a book is that it instantly enhances your credibility and authority in your field. When people learn that you have authored a book, they perceive you as a reputable source and an expert in your industry. Lauren Cabello emphasizes that a book serves as a business card into your business, taking someone from not knowing you to understanding your expertise and making them a warm lead right from the beginning. By positioning yourself as an author, you establish a foundation for trust and respect, which opens the door to numerous opportunities such as speaking engagements and media appearances.

    2. Enhances Marketing Strategy:

    Writing a book provides entrepreneurs with a distinct marketing campaign. It gives you something substantial to talk about, making it easier to pitch yourself for interviews, podcasts, television appearances, and other forms of media exposure. Lauren emphasizes that a book gives you a sense of urgency when it comes to marketing, providing a clear-cut strategy for showcasing your expertise and attracting potential customers. Additionally, a book can be a powerful networking tool, leading to collaborations and connections within your industry.

    3. Expands Speaking Engagements:

    Having a book under your belt significantly increases your chances of securing speaking engagements. Event organizers often look for speakers who have authored books, as it adds credibility and validates you as an authority in your field. Speaking engagements not only provide opportunities to share your knowledge and expertise but also allow you to connect with a broader audience and make valuable professional connections.

    4. Builds Your Brand:

    Writing a book allows entrepreneurs to solidify their place in a new market or brand. While it's important to establish a brand first before releasing a book, the book can also help you leverage your presence in a new industry. By linking your book to your existing brand or creating a new brand around the book, you can cross-pollinate your audiences and reach a wider range of people. As Simona and Lauren discuss in their conversation, incorporating your book into your podcast or other media platforms helps to attract new listeners or readers and further strengthens your brand.

    5. Provides Networking Opportunities:

    Engaging in the process of writing and publishing a book creates networking opportunities. As Lauren mentions, authors often invite potential guests onto their podcasts or media channels to discuss their book or related topics. These interactions not only help to grow your network but also expose your brand to new audiences. Writing a book allows you to connect with like-minded individuals, industry experts, and potential collaborators, ultimately expanding your professional reach.

    Writing a book offers a multitude of benefits for entrepreneurs and podcasters. It enhances credibility, serves as a powerful marketing tool, expands speaking engagements, builds your brand, and provides networking opportunities. While writing a book requires time, effort, and strategy, the rewards are well worth it. By positioning yourself as an author, you establish authority, solidify your brand, and gain access to exciting opportunities within your industry. So if you're an entrepreneur looking to take your business to the next level, consider embarking on the journey of writing a book.

    Let us know what you think about the idea of entrepreneurs writing books in the comments below. Have you considered writing a book? What topics or challenges would you address in your book? We love hearing from you!

    Lauren Cobello is the Founder and CEO of Leverage with Media PR, a renowned national TV personality, 3x best-selling author, and a prominent figure in the world of entrepreneurship and public relations. Lauren has been a regular lifestyle TV personality on national TV shows like The TODAY show, GMA, Dr. Oz, Rachael Ray, and hundreds of others for over a decade.

    Learn about:

    • [0:00] Intro

    • [2:54] Why every entrepreneur and podcaster should write a book

    • [4:14] How to get started on your book idea

    • [6:08] What happens if the book you should write is not the book you want to write

    • [7:32] The way to bridge between where you are now and where you want to go in your content creation and book writing

    • [12:55] 3 key benefits to writing a book

    • [17:31] Self publishing vs. traditional publishing

    • [20:39] Why your number of pages matters

     

    Resources:

     

    Connect with Lauren:

     

    Connect with Simona here:

     

    As It Relates to Podcasting
    enJanuary 04, 2024