Putting the listener first: a guide to making a Helpful Podcast

Are you a service-oriented podcaster looking to build stronger, longer-lasting relationships with your audience? If so, you may want to consider creating a helpful podcast. In this guide, we’ll explore what a helpful podcast is, why it’s beneficial, and how you can create one.

What is a Helpful Podcast?

A helpful podcast is a podcast that puts the listener first. It’s designed to answer a central question in each episode, with the goal of providing value to the listener. This type of podcast is clear and concise, with simple show notes that make it easy for the listener to follow along.

Why create a Helpful Podcast?

There are many benefits to creating a helpful podcast. For one, it can help you build stronger, longer-lasting relationships with your audience. By providing value to your listeners, you can establish yourself as an expert in your field and gain their trust and loyalty.

Additionally, a helpful podcast can help you attract new listeners. When people are searching for answers to their questions, they often turn to podcasts. By creating a podcast that answers their questions and provides value, you can attract new listeners and grow your audience.

How to create a Helpful Podcast

Creating a helpful podcast requires some planning and preparation. Here are the steps you can take to create a podcast that provides value to your listeners:

Step 1: Identify your listener persona

The first step in creating a helpful podcast is to identify your listener persona. This is the person you want to be enjoying, appreciating, or getting value from your work. To create a listener persona, consider factors like age, interests, communication style, and where they like to hang out online.

Step 2: Answer a central question in each episode

Once you have identified your listener persona, the next step is to answer a central question in each episode. This question should be something that your listener is likely to Google or is interested in learning more about. By answering this question, you can provide value to your listener and establish yourself as an expert in your field.

If you have a guest on your podcast, make sure they know the central question and are prepared to speak to it. This will help keep the episode focused and ensure that you are providing value to your listener.

Step 3: Be clear and concise

A helpful podcast is clear and concise. This means that you should get in, deliver value, and get out. Don’t outstay your welcome or ramble on about topics that aren’t relevant to the central question. Your listeners’ time is valuable, so make sure that you are providing them with value in every episode.

Step 4: Create simple show notes

Simple show notes are essential for a helpful podcast. Your show notes should include a paragraph or two setting up the tension, explaining how the episode resolves that tension, and a list of links. If you have a guest on your podcast, include a short paragraph about them or the topic you are discussing.

Make sure that your show notes are useful and include links to any proper nouns that you mention in the episode. This will make it easy for your listener to follow along and learn more about the topics you are discussing.

Conclusion

Creating a helpful podcast is a great way to build stronger, longer-lasting relationships with your audience. By putting your listener first and answering a central question in each episode, you can provide value and establish yourself as an expert in your field. With some planning and preparation, you can create a podcast that your listeners will love and grow your audience in the process.