Big Podcast Playbook - Grow Your Podcast. Build Your Audience. | buildabigpodcast

Big Podcast Playbook - Grow Your Podcast. Build Your Audience.

Want more listeners, better engagement, and real revenue? Each episode gives concise, actionable playbooks for podcast growth, marketing, and monetization. Get step‑by‑step tactics you can implement today. Big Podcast

How to Record Powerful Stories From Any Live Event
When a big trucking show demanded on-the-fly pivots, David ditched dozens of quick clips for deeper interviews and story-rich moments ... How that shift brought better tape and what it means for your
7th Apr 2026
25m
Decoding the Manosphere Playbook: Podcast Lessons on Authority, Audience and Impact
How the rise of manosphere creators reveals the podcast growth tactics (and traps) of new media, plus what podcasters like you can learn (and avoid) from their success in this episode of Big Podcast
23rd Mar 2026
34m
What to Do When Your Podcast Guest Goes Hostile
Ever had a guest who shuts down or turns hostile? How to handle tough interviews, keep your cool, and still get great content for your audience in this episode of Big Podcast Playbook ... Big Ideas
18th Mar 2026
33m
The Secrets to Long-Term Podcast Success
What really keeps podcasters from quitting, and how you can build personal sustainability, master self-editing, manage momentum, process feedback, and adapt to an evolving audio world in this episode
14th Mar 2026
21m
Growth and Marketability Skills for Podcasters Who Want Real Opportunities
Want your podcast to go from just a show to a platform that attracts more listeners, sponsors, and lasting impact? How clear positioning, real audience engagement, and standout marketability make it
1st Mar 2026
21m
Podcast Update, New Book Launch, and What's Next
Big updates are on the way as David wraps up his upcoming book and shares the behind-the-scenes journey of perfecting the Big Podcast Launch Plan in this episode of Big Podcast Playbook ... That's
25th Feb 2026
4m
How to Keep Your Podcast Rolling ... Even in a Crisis
What keeps the podcast machine rolling when ice storms, guest rejections, and burnout threaten your production? How to book better guests, maintain your standards, and plan for resets in this episode
7th Feb 2026
26m
Key Production Skills Every Podcaster Needs
A snowstorm threatened to derail his live show ... David breaks down exactly what production skills podcasters need to stay independent, keep their shows on track, and never miss an episode (even
1st Feb 2026
18m
What Makes Forgettable Podcasts Bingeable
What separates a forgettable podcast from a bingeable one? David dives into the secrets of great content, writing strategies, and connecting with your audience in this episode of Big Podcast Playbook
22nd Jan 2026
22m
Core Podcasting Mic Skills
Master the five essential on-mic skills every podcaster needs, from hosting and interviewing to storytelling and voice control, in this episode of Big Podcast Playbook ... Big Ideas in This Episode
10th Jan 2026
27m
Returning After a Long Break: What Happens?
Can podcast awards really boost your reputation, and what happens when you return to podcasting after years away? David Hooper shares stories, listener letters, and hard-won insights in this episode
24th Dec 2025
24m
The Truth About Podcast Awards
Can paying for podcast awards actually help you grow your audience, or is your money better spent elsewhere? Why most trophies aren't worth chasing in this episode of Big Podcast Playbook ... Big
12th Dec 2025
16m
Turning One-Time Listeners Into Loyal Podcast Fans
Turning casual listeners into loyal podcast fans and building true community, plus how shorter episodes, punchy hooks, and connecting with your audience can grow your show in this episode of Big
3rd Dec 2025
16m
Grassroots Podcast Growth: Cutting Through the Noise
Cutting through overwhelming noise, building real connections, and using grassroots strategies to grow your podcast, plus the surprising lessons learned from a local political campaign, in this
1st Dec 2025
17m
Audacity 4: The Big Upgrade
Audacity 4 is here (sort of), and David takes you inside the alpha version, sharing why it's a game-changer for podcasters and how you can help shape its future in this episode of Big Podcast
26th Nov 2025
9m
Unlocking Better Interviews: What Makes a Great Podcast Guest
What really makes a podcast guest great (and why it's not just about filling out forms, sharing tips, or being a great speaker) in this episode of Big Podcast Playbook ... Big Ideas in This Episode
18th Nov 2025
32m
How to Become a Great Podcast Host
Want to know what really makes a podcast host great? David Hooper breaks down the secrets to setting the space, guiding guests, and running unforgettable interviews in this episode of Big Podcast
15th Nov 2025
14m
Hard Truths About Podcast Coaching, Ads, and Growth
Why spending big money on ads, chasing viral fame, or following every new platform isn't the answer (and what really builds a podcast audience that matters) in this episode of Big Podcast Playbook
9th Nov 2025
27m
Why I Changed the Name of this Podcast After 700 Episodes (and How You Can Too)
After nearly 700 episodes, David Hooper made the bold decision to change this podcast's name. Why he did it, how it impacts his listeners, and what you should consider before a rebrand in this
4th Nov 2025
33m
Avoiding Failure Porn and Focusing on Your Authentic Podcast Voice
Ever wonder if you should really pay attention to your instincts—or if chasing excitement will only burn you out? David Hooper breaks down the final step to finding your podcasting voice (and what
30th Oct 2025
6m
How to Avoid Copycat Podcasting
Should you copy what other successful podcasters do, or blaze your own trail—and does paying attention to others really help you find your unique voice? David breaks it down in this episode of Build
28th Oct 2025
6m
How Podcasters Can Level Up Fast
Why simply practicing your podcast isn't enough and how the right kind of focused practice will actually help you find your authentic voice in this episode of Build a Big Podcast ... Big Ideas in
27th Oct 2025
6m
Podcasting Rules: When to Break Them and When to Follow
Should you break podcasting rules or learn them first? David dives into how knowing the rules helps you find your voice and when it's time to break them in this episode of Build a Big Podcast ... Big
26th Oct 2025
5m
Should You Copy or Innovate?
Should you try to stand out or fit in—and can you do both at once? David shares how bringing your own voice and experience to podcasting is the real key to being noticed (without reinventing the
8th Oct 2025
8m
Oversharing Flaws and Failure Porn
Should you highlight your flaws to stand out, or does "failure porn" turn listeners off? David breaks down the difference and reveals what really makes your podcast matter in this episode of Build a
5th Oct 2025
7m
Leveraging Your Story: Podcast Marketing Through Personal Experience
Your unique life experiences are the secret weapon to making a podcast that truly stands out—how to leverage them and why it matters in this episode of Build a Big Podcast ... Big Ideas in This
12th Sep 2025
10m
How to Develop Your Unique Podcast Voice
Sharing your true self, even what scares you, could be the key to standing out and connecting with your audience, and David explores just how to do it in this episode of Build a Big Podcast ... Big
8th Sep 2025
10m
Culture Wars and Podcasting
If you've ever worried about outrage, rebranding backlash, or haters coming for your podcast, here's how to handle the noise, protect your show, and keep your community strong in this episode of
1st Sep 2025
22m
Dead Air
Everything can go wrong when the clock is ticking on live radio, even for veterans. How David handled 28 seconds of dead air and what every podcaster can learn from it in this episode of Build a Big
18th Aug 2025
26m
11 Commandments of Podcasting (Insider 241)
AI's impact on podcasting, why genuine connection matters more than ever, the rise of AI-generated bands, strategies for releasing episode clips, and the 11 Commandments every podcaster should know
22nd Jul 2025
27m
Starbucks and Podcasting (Insider 240)
Bold podcast promo strategies, psychological triggers from Starbucks, three essential interview question types, and how to add real impact (and "teeth") to your show in this episode of Build a Big
19th Jul 2025
29m
Episode 666
Podcast burnout, making bold changes to stay inspired, lessons from top podcasters, and plans for new directions and deeper dives in this episode of Build a Big Podcast ... Big Ideas in This Episode
15th Jul 2025
13m
Audio vs. Video (Insider 239)
Spotting biased podcasting advice, the truth about audio vs video growth, how to get more listeners (and subscribers), Betty White and Bea Arthur's backstage drama, and tips for handling tough
2nd Jul 2025
22m
20 Years in Radio (Insider 238)
Time-bending interview moments, 20 years in radio, using Cameo for podcast promotion, growing your email list with giveaways, and why your audience is your invisible co-host in this episode of Build
27th Jun 2025
22m
Too Hot for OnlyFans? (Insider 237)
Tracking what works (and what doesn't) in podcast marketing, why live events are your secret growth weapon, how relatability beats perfection, mic myths busted, and smart ways to do "more, better,
22nd Jun 2025
32m
Don't Do This (Insider 236)
Clever (and risky) marketing tricks, the truth about podcast gear and guests, essential pre-interview tips, AI voice options, and free podcast artwork templates in this episode of Build a Big Podcast
18th Jun 2025
28m
Time to Quit Your Podcast? (Insider 235)
Zero-budget podcasting truths, signs it's time to quit your show, Spotify's new "Plays" metric, Audacity's 25th anniversary, and a pro trick for getting remote guests to show up in this episode of
15th Jun 2025
20m
Segments Will Grow Your Podcast (Insider 234)
Why you need podcast segments, what happens when you DM every fan, the power of 30-day challenges, smarter ad reads, and the secret to building deeper listener relationships in this episode of Build
11th Jun 2025
24m
Your Podcast in My New Book (Insider 233)
AI-powered artwork, voiceover cadence secrets, cable-saving hacks, Spotify controversies, and your chance to be featured in a new podcasting book in this episode of Build a Big Podcast ... Why You
7th Jun 2025
29m
The Best Merch for Fans (Insider 232)
A wild journey through podcast merch mishaps, creative constraints that boost your show, pin trading for superfans, and what to do when a podcast moment needs a "code red" fix in this episode of
25th May 2025
23m
Embrace the Enemy (Insider 231)
Viral myths, the power of naming your enemy, 100+ ChatGPT prompts for podcasters, embracing imperfection, and how to make your Blue Yeti sound amazing in this episode of Build a Big Podcast ... Why
20th May 2025
19m
The First 10-Minutes of Your Podcast (Insider 230)
How to spot and fix hidden holes in your podcast, why natural talent is a myth, making your first ten minutes unskippable, plus AI tools for pro-quality audio and automated blogging in this episode
14th May 2025
24m
The Darkside of Influencers (Insider 229)
Media responsibility for podcasters, viral news hijacks, building true audience connection, and creative ways to generate standout episode ideas in this episode of Build a Big Podcast ... Why You
5th May 2025
27m
The Death Clock (Insider 228)
How China tariffs could impact your gear, viral death clock promotions, smarter cross-promotion strategies, storytelling upgrades, and the hilarious bad podcast guest action figure in this episode of
24th Apr 2025
23m
5 "Rules" for Great Podcast Artwork (Insider 227)
Late-night recording realities, must-know rules for standout podcast artwork, creative promo ideas, and lessons from HBO's production magic in this episode of Build a Big Podcast ... Why You Should
22nd Apr 2025
23m
The Death of Local Media (Insider 226)
David Hooper dives into podcasting authenticity, how AI is reshaping accents, the importance of staying true to your voice, and the opportunities in hyper-local content for podcasters in this episode
13th Apr 2025
24m
55% of Women Hate This Podcast (Insider 225)
David Hooper shares tips for podcasters on filling unused ad space with public service announcements, using tools like Zoom's PodTrak 2, and automating episode notes and social media, all aimed at
4th Apr 2025
23m
Gen Z Wants Audio Podcasts (Insider 224)
Learn how to harness the power of audio to grow your podcast audience, connect with Gen Z listeners, and drive engagement with effective storytelling and marketing strategies in this episode of Build
2nd Apr 2025
21m
The Podcasting Treadmill (Insider 223)
David Hooper dives into strategies for podcast success, highlighting the balance between quality and quantity, the dangers of the "podcasting treadmill," and tips for boosting engagement and finding
26th Mar 2025
41m
Podcast Audience Growth (Insider 222)
The rise of AI as a tool for podcasters, the myth of YouTube as a podcast killer, the power of community, and shares tips on increasing podcast traffic while encouraging a focus on creativity over
12th Mar 2025
23m
The Secret to Being a Top Podcaster (Insider 221)
David Hooper explores the importance of showing up big for every podcast, harnessing AI for editing, building genuine audience connections, and validating your podcast ideas for success in this
5th Mar 2025
20m
Small Audiences, Cheap Equipment (Insider 220)
David Hooper shares tips for podcasters on how to grow their audience, improve interview skills, and monetize their shows, highlighting the importance of life experience, consistency, and creating
25th Feb 2025
30m
The Magic of a Small Audience
In this episode of Build a Big Podcast, David Hooper shares a personal story about Seal to illustrate the importance of valuing your true fans and making meaningful connections, even if your audience
11th Feb 2025
6m
Blame the Influencers (Insider 219)
The influence of social media influencers on new podcasters, creative brainstorming tips, podcast monetization strategies, and unique ways to enhance your podcasting experience.in this episode of
9th Feb 2025
19m
A Common Podcasting Problem (Insider 218)
Discover how to attract podcast listeners instead of repelling them. Plus, access 550 episode ideas, marketing strategies, and more to grow your podcast audience and income on this episode in this
6th Feb 2025
23m
From Prince's Studio to Your Podcast: Creative Growth with Limited Resources
Explore how limited resources can boost creativity in podcasting through inspiring stories of Prince, Mannie Fresh, and Jesse Johnson on this episode of Build a Big Podcast. You want these links ...
6th Feb 2025
6m
The 8-Sound Podcast Challenge
Discover why quality content and creativity trump high-tech solutions in podcasting, as David Hooper share insights from record producer Mannie Fresh on maximizing minimal resources You want these
2nd Feb 2025
6m
Get My Wife Back (Insider 217)
The power of podcasting, the art of one sentence descriptions, how non-popular YouTubers influence politics, and 100+ episode ideas to keep your content fresh and engaging in this episode of Build a
30th Jan 2025
24m
Podcasting on Bluesky (Insider 216)
Explore effective podcast marketing strategies, ethical considerations, and must-have tools in this episode of Build a Big Podcast ... Episode Topics Making tough decisions under pressure, including
21st Jan 2025
19m
Podcast Production Pitch List (Insider 215)
Podcasting skills, balancing audio vs. video content, and handling tricky guest situations while highlighting a startling true story of a guest accidentally firing a gun during an interview in this
19th Jan 2025
22m
How to Take Control of Your RSS Feed
In this episode of Build a Big Podcast, David Hooper dives into the importance of controlling your podcast feed, debunks common misconceptions about feeds, and offers practical tips to ensure your
10th Jan 2025
9m
Podcast Episode in a Box (Insider 214)
Optimizing sound quality on a budget, the audio vs. video debate, Joe Rogan's authenticity, and personal growth insights for podcasters in this episode of Build a Big Podcast ... Episode Topics Audio
10th Jan 2025
29m
Grow Your Podcast in 2025 (Insider 213)
Unlock actionable strategies for podcast growth in the new year, featuring audience engagement tips, collaboration insights, and Seth Godin's book promotion secrets in this episode of Build a Big
1st Jan 2025
22m
What's Next in Podcasting (Insider 212)
David Hooper shares tips on avoiding podcast burnout, leveraging guest booking tools, and future podcast trends, while reflecting on the evolution of podcast technology and celebrating community
28th Dec 2024
37m
How to Get More Listeners in Apple Podcasts (Insider 211)
Discover affordable podcasting gear, listener growth strategies, and exclusive discounts on podcasting gear from David Hooper in this episode of Build a Big Podcast ... Episode Topics Podcasting
26th Dec 2024
21m
Your Podcast Sucks! Or Does It?
In this holiday edition of Build a Big Podcast, David Hooper discusses the polarized responses to podcasters' work, emphasizing the importance of evaluating feedback and staying true to your vision.
25th Dec 2024
9m
Get More Podcast Reviews (Insider 210)
Discover the essential writing framework that can transform your podcasting skills, boost audience engagement, and drive podcast growth in this episode of Build a Big Podcast ... Episode Topics
18th Dec 2024
29m
Mental Health for Podcasters
Discover how to enhance your podcasting journey with David Hooper's top tips on guest selection, balancing your time, and perfecting your craft in this episode of Build a Big Podcast ... Episode
10th Dec 2024
15m
You Don't Need More Gear (Insider 209)
Discover affordable podcasting gear and essential tips for honing your skills in this episode of Build a Big Podcast ... Episode Topics Importance of skill development over equipment acquisition for
10th Dec 2024
22m
How to Be a Better Podcast Host (Insider 208)
Learn how to grow your podcast inch by inch with actionable tips on audience engagement, better hosting, and powerful tools in this episode of Build a Big Podcast ... Episode Topics Incremental
29th Nov 2024
20m
Rejuvenate Your Podcast - Part 2
Discover ten powerful strategies to overcome podcasting ruts, connect authentically with your audience, and rejuvenate your content in this episode of Build a Big Podcast. In this episode ...
27th Nov 2024
24m
Revitalize Your Podcast: How to Avoid Burnout and Increase Engagement
Struggling with podcast burnout or apathy? In this episode of Build a Big Podcast, David Hooper shares actionable tips to re-engage with your audience and refresh your content. in the latest episode
26th Nov 2024
14m
How Did You Get That Voiceover Gig? (Insider 207)
Unlock the secrets of voice-over gigs, podcast growth, and insider stories, plus exclusive tools and tips in this episode of Build a Big Podcast ... Episode Topics Voice over opportunities Podcast
20th Nov 2024
19m
Insider Language = Big Podcast (Insider 206)
In this episode of Build A Big Podcast, dive into the power of insider language, strategies for audience growth, and crucial tips for preventing hearing loss as a podcaster ... Episode Topics Insider
19th Nov 2024
35m
Make a Cheap Mic Sound Better (Insider 205)
Unlock the secrets to creating impactful podcast content, celebrity influence, and smart recording techniques with David Hooper on this episode of Build a Big Podcast ... Episode Topics Celebrity
10th Nov 2024
23m
This Will Grow Your Podcast Audience (Insider 204)
Unlock your podcasting potential with tips on rebranding, leveraging Podcasting 2.0, improving audio quality, and an opportunity to join the 30-Day Solo Podcasting Challenge for a special price (see
31st Oct 2024
24m
Solo Podcast Challenge (Insider 203)
In this episode of Build a Big Podcast, David Hooper discusses the importance of cutting out the middleman, mastering solo podcasting, and building rapport with guests, featuring tips from his own
28th Oct 2024
27m
For Those About to Podcast ... We Salute You (Insider 202)
Uncover the crucial steps to building a lasting podcast audience, the impact of consistent content creation, and strategies for leveraging social media and interactive tools to boost engagement and
19th Oct 2024
30m
48-Hour Podcasting Contest (Insider 201)
Learn how overlooked podcasting skills, Pixar storytelling rules, and all about new tools to help grow your podcast audience and improve content quality in this episode of Build a Big Podcast! Big
13th Oct 2024
30m
Overrated Podcasting Tools
Discover the truth behind podcasting myths as David Hooper breaks down what's overrated, underrated, and accurately rated in the latest episode of Build a Big Podcast. In this episode ... Importance
6th Oct 2024
17m
YouTube Hype for Podcasters (Insider 200)
Join David Hooper as he celebrates the 200th issue of Big Podcast Insider ... or does he? No ... Get tips on podcast growth, help with your solo podcasting, and Tim Ferriss' new rules for podcasting
4th Oct 2024
28m
Does Your Podcast Have an Enemy? (Insider 199)
Discover essential tips on growing your podcast, optimizing Spotify visibility, engaging your audience, and boosting monetization in this episode of Build a Big Podcast! Big Ideas in this Episode
24th Sep 2024
30m
How to Name Your Podcast (Insider 198)
Discover the impact of a strong domain name, the secrets to naming your podcast, and how to make your podcast sound bigger with this episode of Build a Big Podcast! Main Objectives of this Episode
21st Sep 2024
26m
8-Step Podcast Interview Plan (Insider 197)
Unlock your podcasting potential with this episode of Build a Big Podcast! Main Objectives of this Episode Growing your podcast audience Making a podcast that sponsors are interested in Creating a
14th Sep 2024
35m
Audacity and Blue Yeti Revealed
Breaking down the most debated podcasting tools and events with an insider's perspective - David Hooper rates them as overrated, underrated, or accurately rated on this episode of Build a Big
8th Sep 2024
20m
The Overnight Sensation of Podcasting (Big Podcast Insider Issue 196)
Learn how to grow your podcast, find quality equipment on a budget, and make your show truly matter in this episode of Build a Big Podcast! Main Objectives of this Episode Growing your podcast
4th Sep 2024
27m
Phil Donahue vs. Rush Limbaugh (Big Podcast Insider Issue 195)
Unlock powerful podcasting tips, from mastering interviews to creating online radio stations, and learn how to amplify your message in this episode of Build a Big Podcast! Topics covered in this
27th Aug 2024
26m
The House of Podcast (Big Podcast Insider Issue 194)
Learn unique strategies for growing, monetizing, and marketing your podcast, plus hear about the power of empathy and a fun (but awkward) Thanksgiving podcast story in this episode of Build a Big
18th Aug 2024
26m