Guest: Sadaf Beynon
Stop Following Bad Podcast Advice (and What Actually Works)
If you’ve spent any time in the podcasting world, you’ve probably heard it:
“Grow your show overnight.”
“Land sponsors fast.”
“Post more clips on social media.”
It’s the kind of advice that sounds strategic — but often pulls creators away from what actually matters.
In this week’s Podjunction Podcast, I close out The Podcast Rethink series by tackling one of the biggest myths in the industry: that fast growth equals success.
It doesn’t.
Real growth takes time — and it’s built on three things: Focus, Consistency, and Connection.
1️⃣ Focus: Be known for something specific.
Podcasts that serve a narrow niche often see five to ten times the ROI of broad shows. When you talk to one clear listener instead of everyone, you build deeper resonance and trust.
As Scott McInnes once said, “Go an inch wide and a mile deep.” That’s how you build impact.
2️⃣ Consistency: Keep showing up.
Research shows most podcasts fade after eight episodes. Real traction starts around episode fifty — because consistency compounds.
Every time you release an episode, you build authority and trust, even when you don’t see the results right away.
3️⃣ Connection: Talk to one listener, not a crowd.
Podcasting is personal. It’s not about mass reach — it’s about making your listener feel seen, heard, and understood.
That’s how content becomes community.
What to Measure Instead
Forget downloads for a moment. Instead, track:
Retention (aim for 60%+ completion)
Engagement (reviews, messages, replies)
Pipeline growth (leads or partnerships from your show)
Brand lift (new mentions or opportunities)
Audience insight (who’s listening, and why)
The best podcasters reflect, adjust, and evolve — not to chase metrics, but to serve their audience better.
Final Thought
Podcasting isn’t about shortcuts.
It’s about substance.
And while it may not be the fastest route to success, it might just be the most meaningful one.
Because every episode, every conversation, and every moment behind the mic reminds us —
growth begins with a conversation.