At the start of this year, we decided that it was time to put all the advice, skills and work that we do for our clients to the ultimate test.
We launched our own Podcast.
Say hello to The Unhelpful Parenting Podcast.
Starting a podcast is daunting. But thankfully, we proved we do know what we are talking about when it comes to podcast marketing.
In the first 90 days, we had over 250k views on YouTube, 2k followers on Facebook, and another thousand across YouTube, TikTok and Instagram. We even caught Usain Bolt’s personal account (with over 13 million followers) liking one of our Instagram reels – that’s now sitting at over 1.5 million views on Facebook!
Here’s a little overview of where our podcast started, what we did to succeed, and where we ended up after the first 90 days of launching a podcast.
We started from nothing. All we had was a good idea, with no budget or pre-built audience.
We didn’t have any huge personal following to leverage on social media. And our business accounts were completely the wrong demographic (corporate business marketing and parenting podcasts don’t tend to overlap much!).
So we kickstarted with ~20 followers and subscribers on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube, and absolutely zero on TikTok.
Having our Sunshine Coast Podcast studio definitely helped in the budget department. Production and marketing were just costing us our time (which is still precious!). We can appreciate that many other businesses and podcast teams don’t have this head start, but this has demonstrated it's worth the investment.
There’s no denying that getting started, especially from nothing, is an uphill climb. Any marketing team that promises you otherwise is likely full of hot air (unless you’ve some decent ad spend budget behind you!)
But if you get posting and know what you’re doing, you’ll find momentum, and the likes, follows and listeners will come (even though some days it feels like your posts aren’t reaching anyone!).
The four main things that helped us start to pick up momentum was:
We won’t lie – having a few of the key skills in-house made the podcast launch MUCH easier. We didn’t have to outsource a social media strategy (that’s Bec’s sweet spot), or production (that’s Sam’s!). And with our skills and experience, we knew we had a good idea that would work online.
Before you go signing up for marketing strategies and production plans, get a professional podcast producer and marketing strategist to go over your plans. For us, we were only investing our time (which is still SUPER valuable to us as business owners with three kids 5 and under!). But before you spend big bucks, make sure you’re talking with someone in the industry who has had success and knows what they are doing to make sure you’ve got a sound investment.
Yes, video production is usually where a lot of the cost seems to go. Without video, you can get away with recording anywhere, so there are no studio production fees, and editing is much simpler.
But video is where the marketing power lies.
Without podcast video, you’ve got no Instagram or Facebook reels, no YouTube shorts and no TikToks. And really, that’s the four basic pillars of social media marketing.
Yes, you could put the audio over a picture – but when was the last time you sat and listened to more than 2 seconds of audio without video? It might work once, but if you’re posting almost every day (like you need to to get started), then you’re going to need podcast video.
Video podcasts also pay off later on once you get monetized on YouTube, adding a whole new stream of income!
Whatever you do, do it consistently.
We know that if you’re paying for marketing, the more you post, the more it’s likely going to cost. So we will be honest when we say that posting everyday is the ideal, but realistic in knowing that sometimes pushes even the best-funded start-up budgets to the limit (and if you’re doing your social media DIY style, everyday posting on your own will tire you out eventually).
The happy medium is posting with consistency.
Whatever you do, do it consistently and the algorithms will learn your rhythm.
Consistency means the algorithm will start to learn your rhythm and what to expect and will reward your content as such.
Sporadic posting = sporadic growth. Consistent posting = consistent growth at whatever pace you can manage.
Bec will be the first to admit, she thought Instagram was going to be the winner for the Unhelpful Parenting Podcast.
In actual fact, that started off being the least productive of all the social media platforms and took a while to get started.
As marketers, we usually have a pretty good sense of where different audiences consume content. But it’s impossible to know for sure where your audience is until you start posting, so when you start, start everywhere.
As a minimum, that should include Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and TikTok. If your podcast is business-related, include LinkedIn in your marketing mix.
We quickly found that the embarrassing parenting stories would consistently go mildly viral on YouTube Shorts (around 8-10k views each), and then 20% of those would take off on Facebook reels, but they would go much further there than anywhere else (the biggest is sitting at 1.5 million views).
We found people liked watching on TikTok, but not engaging so much, and Instagram was good for views and engagement, but viewers didn’t convert as well into followers so growth has been much slower.
If we had to go back and only choose two platforms, YouTube shorts and Facebook would now be our choice (although we've had valuable connections everywhere - so thankfully we don't have to choose!)
It definitely goes to show that your audience may not be where you expect, and getting your content out in a variety of spaces to test it is the only way to tell where you’ll strike gold.
At the 3-4 month mark (while writing this), we are still in the early days of our podcast audience building, so we aren’t popping the champagne just yet.
But we’ve seen the progress and momentum building that anyone launching a podcast from nothing dreams of.
Here’s some of the cool stats on different posts that we’ve seen:
- This Facebook reel has over 1.5 million views
- This Instagram reel has over 210k views and 18k likes
- This YouTube short brought in over 28 subscribers overnight
- This TikTok has over 1800 likes
We have lots of exciting ideas and are about to enter into the next stage of content creation.
So, watch this space as we continue unleashing our creative marketing and testing out new campaigns, strategies and podcast tips and tricks on ourselves.
Got a podcast you’re ready to take the next step with?
Talk to us at All In Creative about how to take your podcast idea and turn it into a high-quality production that produces results. We have our Sunshine Coast podcast studio ready for you!
If you're a podcaster, or hoping to be, you'll have had to consider how to record and whether to buy, hire or use a studio for your podcast recording equipment.
Stepping into the podcast arena comes with a big decision – should you splash out on swanky gear, opt for the occasional fling with hired equipment, or get cosy with a full-blown production company in a podcast studio?
Each path has its pros and cons. Let’s tune into these advantages and disadvantages to find the perfect path for your podcasting needs!
Going solo on the podcast path? Gear up for the DIY route – it’s a mix of independence and investment.
The pros? You’re the boss. Every knob, button, and slider is yours to command. Owning your own gear means customising your setup for that perfectly tailored sound and being ready to record when inspiration hits – be it at the crack of dawn or the dead of night.
The initial cash drop on quality mics, mixers, and headphones can break the bank. Plus, unless you’re a tech whiz (or know one), there’s a steep learning curve ahead. You’ll spend time not just mastering content, but also grappling with audio editing software and troubleshooting pesky wires.
It’s a commitment, not just of funds but of time – hours that could be spent fine-tuning your content instead of fiddling with cables and equipment.
You'll also have to keep spending money to keep up with the latest technologies and gear if you are wanting to be the best!
For those with a passion for tech and a hands-on spirit, buying equipment can be empowering. But ask yourself, is the thrill of DIY worth the time and tune-up?
Looking for a less permanent podcast setup? Hiring equipment can be like having a backstage pass – access to the good stuff without the long-term equipment commitment.
Flexibility is the headliner here; you get to test different mics and mixers for each episode’s focus, special guest, or sound requirement, all while keeping those upfront costs low.
Before you take this gig on the road, consider the cons. Quality can vary, and you might find yourself with gear that’s seen better days. Availability can also be unpredictable, especially if you’re eyeing the same high-demand equipment as every other podcaster.
Basic hire spots might leave you to your own devices, while full-service studios come with all the bells and whistles – expert sound engineers included.
Ask yourself: Are you after a one-hit wonder or a chart-topping series? Your choice of studio could set the stage for your podcast’s success.
Going pro with a production company? It’s like having your own squad of podcasting superheroes at your beck and call.
First up, you get the VIP pass to the latest and greatest gear – the kind that makes your audio crisp and your content pop. No more fretting over fuzzy sound or tech problems; these teams keep their kit on the cutting edge and your podcasting sounding slick.
You don't have to be a tech whiz, you can leave all the knobs and dials to someone who knows what they are doing, while you focus on what you're going to talk about and the content of your show!
Wanting to video your podcast? They’ll make it shine. Need help making it look good on social media? Consider it done. They turn knobs, push buttons, and pull levers to make sure your podcast isn’t just another voice in the crowd.
Working with a podcast production company may stretch your budget further than DIY, and you might find scheduling requires more time due to the higher demand and elaborate production process.
It’s all about giving your brand the spotlight it deserves, with quality that speaks volumes and a professional touch that listeners love.
When it comes to podcasting, your wallet’s future depends on the choices you make today.
Buying gear outright can seem like a hefty one-off hit, but it’s a case of pay now, save later. Over time, those mics and mixers don’t ask for much – just a bit of upkeep and the occasional update.
Hiring, on the flip side, can seem lighter on the purse – smaller, more manageable costs that ebb and flow with your needs. But tally up those rental receipts over months or years, and you might be surprised. The price can creep up, especially when you factor in the latest tech cravings.
Okay, so what about the production company route? It’s not just about recording; it’s about crafting a masterpiece – and that expertise comes at a premium. Yet, weigh it against the hidden costs – time spent learning the ropes, money poured into maintenance updates, and even those sneaky little upgrades – and the scales may tip. Investing in a podcast production company means investing in peace of mind, freeing you to focus on content, not costs.
Step into the spotlight with All In Creative and our Sunshine Coast podcast studio – your backstage pass to podcasting greatness. Our studio is your stage, equipped with the latest gear and a team of maestros ready to amplify your voice.
Whether you’re a new podcaster or a seasoned speaker, we offer the support, expertise, and top-tier resources to elevate your show from concept to chart-topper.
Not only does the Sunshine Coast studio look good, it comes with a team of content pros who can help you with everything from videoing your podcast to posting on social media and the behind-the-scenes podcast content to make it shine!
Don’t just make noise, make an impact.
Get in touch with us today! Let’s turn the ideal up on your podcasting journey, crafting a show so resonant, your audience can’t help but keep tuning in.
Thinking about starting a podcast? Wondering where to start?
The big question most people have when they start to get serious is… where’s the best spot to press 'record'? Should you just buy all the equipment, or is working with a podcast studio worth it?
In this article, we will explore the different ways to get your podcast started and the benefits of the two most popular options: Starting your podcast yourself as a DIY project vs using a professional podcast recording studio.
From your cozy bedroom corner to professional studios, the world of podcasting offers a range of recording setups.
Let's dive into the two popular routes: DIY and Studio setups…
Roll up those sleeves and transform that quiet corner of your home or office into a podcast haven! The DIY route is all about convenience and cost-effectiveness. With just a few basic gadgets and some software, you can kickstart your podcasting journey right from your comfort zone. Ideal for those spontaneous moments of inspiration or brands on a budget, DIY lets you dictate the pace. No fancy studios or appointments—just you, your message, and maybe your cat purring in the background. Authentic? Absolutely.
Elevate your game with the studio experience. Imagine this: soundproof rooms, top-tier microphones, and all the tech goodies to make your voice crisp and clear. Studios are the playgrounds for brands and individuals seeking that professional edge. You're not just recording; you're crafting an auditory experience for your listeners. With expert guidance at your fingertips, you dodge the technical hiccups and have to do the heavy lifting (aka editing) yourself and dive straight into delivering compelling content.
Taking the DIY route has its perks. It's like whipping up a homemade meal — there's pride in the process and a pinch of personal touch. Let’s explore why DIY might just be right for you!
Well - this is cost-effective to a degree! Going DIY means bypassing the cost of studio rentals - but don’t forget that you’ll need something to record on!
If you've already got a decent microphone, some basic editing software, and a quiet room, you're pretty much set! DIY offers a more wallet-friendly entry point, letting you dip your toes in the podcasting world without diving deep into expenses. Just don’t forget the value of your time - and if you struggle with editing and the tech - make sure you consider just how cost-effective this truly is!
DIY podcasting offers the ultimate freedom card. Want to record at midnight in your pyjamas? Go for it! Need to squeeze in a quick session during lunch? No problem. No studio bookings, no commute, and no time constraints mean you're in total control. This adaptability is gold for brands and individuals who thrive on spontaneity or juggle unpredictable timetables. It's podcasting on your terms, whenever inspiration (or availability) strikes!
Stepping into a studio is like entering a realm of limitless potential. Beyond the shiny equipment, it's about elevated standards, expertise, and exclusivity. So why might brands and podcasters alike opt for a pro setting over the DIY route? Let's unpack the perks…
Crisp audio, zero background noise, and sound levels that are just right. That’s the magic of a studio. When you opt for a professional recording, you're investing in a product that shouts 'top-notch'. Particularly for commercial brands, this can make the difference between being perceived as an industry authority or just another voice in the crowd. It's not just about good microphones; it's about an environment engineered for perfection. Every detail, from soundproofing to high-end equipment, ensures your podcast doesn’t just sound good—it sounds spectacular.
Ever browsed podcast equipment online? The price tags can make your eyes water! By choosing a studio, you sidestep the hefty initial investment of mics, mixers, and other high-tech gadgets. Plus, studios are always updating their gear, meaning you'll have access to the latest and greatest without ever having to do the research (or purchasing) yourself. For businesses and individual podcasters alike, this approach is a win-win: you enjoy cutting-edge quality without the financial sting or the stress of staying updated in a rapidly evolving tech world.
With a studio option, you may not just be renting space; depending on where you go, you're tapping into a team of experts ready to guide your podcast journey. From the nuances of sound editing to the art of distribution, these pros have your back. No more late nights fumbling with software or second-guessing an edit. It's like having a safety net, ensuring your podcast hits the right notes while you focus on what you do best: delivering that magnetic content your audience craves. The support? Priceless.
Sometimes, two heads (or more!) are better than one. A studio isn’t just a place with fancy mics; it can be a hub of creativity (with the right team!). By choosing a professional studio setup, especially one that prides itself on being a creative melting pot, you're adding fresh perspectives to your project. Bounce ideas off skilled technicians or gain insights from those who've heard it all. It's not just about recording; it's about enhancing, innovating, and bringing your podcast vision to life with a splash of studio magic. Elevate your content game with every recording.
With some studios, not only can you hit 'record' for audio, but you can roll on video too. This opens the doors to platforms like YouTube, letting your audience see your expressions, your guests, and all the behind-the-scenes fun. A pro studio typically comes with a backdrop that screams "professional" way louder than your living room wall. Plus, podcast video content can significantly boost engagement and reach. So, why limit yourself? Add visuals!
Ever tried to concentrate on a task, but the laundry pile's giving you the evil eye or your office door just won’t stay shut? Recording in a dedicated studio space sidesteps distractions. It's not just about escaping the mental clutter of daily life, but also stepping into a mindset where you’re solely focused on your content. Plus, for businesses, it adds a level of professionalism, pulling team members out of their usual setting and into a space designed for creativity and collaboration. Win-win!
DIY may have its merits, but nothing quite matches the sophistication and ease a podcast studio brings. Think about it: pristine audio, cutting-edge gear, creative minds at your beck and call, and a distraction-free environment. Opting for a studio isn't just about high-quality sound; it's about presenting yourself or your brand in the best light possible. For businesses especially, this decision screams professionalism and dedication to your audience. So, if you're serious about making waves in the podcasting world, a studio is your golden ticket.
If you’re on the Sunshine Coast, or even Brisbane, look no further than All In Creative's state-of-the-art podcast studio. Beyond just equipment, we offer an experience - a synergy of technology and creativity. Our dedicated team ensures every decibel is pitch-perfect, and every episode shines. Dive into a space where quality meets passion. Choose All In Creative as your Sunshine Coast content creators, and let your podcast journey truly begin.
So, you’ve decided to start a podcast. Except, you’ve probably noticed a growing trend on social media of podcasters filming their recordings.
What’s this trend about?
Does filming a podcast help it reach more people?
The answer is a resounding yes!
Drop the mic and get dressed, it’s time to find out why podcast filming is now an essential part of the podcast recording process.
Here we’ll show you the top 5 reasons to video your podcast recording, an example of what those videos can do, and we’ll help you get started on skyrocketing your podcast engagement!
By filming your podcast you’ll have video to help you promote upcoming episodes, which can then be shared by your followers. This is especially important when you consider TikTok videos and Instagram Reels are the best ways to boost engagement and please the algorithm.
As we’ve discussed, podcast filming allows new followers to find you by extending your reach. A great example is The Imperfects podcast, which consistently ranks in Australia’s top 10 podcasts.
While it runs for more than an hour, short snippets of video featuring their guests are shown to their more than 60 thousand Instagram followers to promote each episode. This allows them to choose emotive or funny anecdotes to draw listeners in and make them want to hear more. Seeing the podcasters’ faces and that of their guests also helps them gain trust and credibility.
So, while people don’t visit podcast apps for videos, The Imperfects podcast shows that harnessing the power of social media with podcast videos can be an effective tool for gaining more listeners.
The production values of your audio podcast and video are a reflection of your brand. To get it right, you’ll need a professional-looking space, lighting, one or more cameras, and editing software. But these are all investments that might be better outsourced.
Hiring a podcast recording studio that’s set up specifically for podcast filming is a wise investment. To give your podcast a professional look and feel, it’s also a great idea to hire a content creation team to help you with the process of filming, editing, and marketing your podcast.
On the Sunshine Coast, All In Creative should be your first point of call when it comes to turning your podcast into a more professional production. Our Sunshine Coast podcast studio right in the heart of Maroochydore has state-of-the-art equipment for recording and filming, loads of furniture and backdrop options, and lighting that could even make you look 20 years younger!
Seriously though, whether you want to go the DIY approach and simply hire the studio, or you want a bit more help with video and editing, we can tailor a package to meet your needs.
From filming and editing to posting your podcast to social media, we’re here to make you look awesome!
Welcome to the audio revolution!
From daily news digests to hobbyist chats, true crime sagas to self-help advice, the podcasting landscape is diverse and thriving. But here’s the kicker: as a business, you’re sitting on a potential gold mine.
Here are some statistics to prove it…
Overlook podcasts, and you may be missing out on a massive marketing opportunity.
Intrigued? We bet you are! Let’s explore why podcasting might just be your next marketing game-changer.
This article will give you an overview of:
The last few years have seen an extraordinary surge in a once-underappreciated medium: the podcast. No longer confined to niche audiences, podcasts have broken into the mainstream culture and grabbed our attention in a big way.
You might be wondering, with all the various content formats available – blogs, videos, social media posts, why choose podcasting?
It’s simple: podcasts offer a unique mix of benefits that other formats can’t quite match.
Podcasts are beautifully easy to consume. While reading an article or watching a video demands a certain level of active engagement, podcasts give your audience the freedom to multitask.
They can listen while commuting, exercising, cooking, or simply relaxing. In today’s fast-paced world, this ability to “passively” consume content is a significant marketing advantage for businesses.
The audio nature of podcasts promotes a personal connection that’s hard to replicate in written or visual content. When listeners hear your voice in their ears, it cultivates an intimate relationship.
It’s like having a conversation with them, making your brand more relatable and human. Want another bonus? Unlike videos that require users to have a stable internet connection, podcasts can be downloaded and enjoyed offline, enhancing their accessibility.
Podcasts offer longevity that’s rare in the world of digital content. A great podcast episode remains relevant and enjoyable for years, providing evergreen content that continually draws in new listeners.
Podcasting as a medium – and a marketing tool – is THRIVING. You can thank an array of interesting trends for shaping that dynamic digital landscape.
Today, there’s a podcast for almost every interest, hobby, or industry you can imagine. Listeners love this tailored content because it feels like it’s made just for them.
For businesses, this is a gold mine. By creating content that specifically appeals to your target market, you can attract a highly engaged and loyal audience.
For instance, a surf shop in Mooloolaba could run a podcast discussing surfing tips, gear reviews, and local surfing spots. This would naturally attract an audience of surf enthusiasts who are likely to become customers.
With the influx of podcasts on the global scene, there’s a rising interest in content with a local focus. Podcasts that discuss local news, events, or culture can resonate with local listeners.
For example, a Sunshine Coast business could produce a podcast that reflects the local lifestyle can help foster a strong connection with the community. You could then cast a wider net and focus on the greater Queensland or Australian population.
Podcasts provide an excellent platform for collaborators between like-minded creators and businesses. You could consider co-hosting episodes, exchanging guest spots, or discussing topics of mutual interest.
This will help you reach a whole new audience and strengthen your professional network.
Listeners are increasingly looking for podcasts that offer more than just entertainment. Educational content, industry insights, practical advice – these are all in high demand.
By offering valuable and informative content, you can build your reputation as experts in your field and attract a loyal audience.
Podcasting can be a powerful marketing tool for your Sunshine Coast business. By incorporating podcasting into your marketing strategy, you can reap some enticing benefits.
Podcasts can significantly enhance your brand’s visibility. When you host a podcast related to your business, you position your brand at the forefront of listeners’ minds.
You’ll reach potential customers who might not have discovered you through traditional advertising channels.
Here’s an example: heard of Bumble? This global dating app has an Australian-based podcast featuring people discussing personal stories of their love lives. The episodes attract singles who are looking to date or hook up, promoting the app to their exact target audience.
Podcasts allow for a deeper level of audience engagement than most other marketing mediums. Regular episodes create anticipation and can cultivate a loyal listenership.
What’s more, the conversational tone of podcasts fosters a sense of connection and trust with your audience.
For instance, Blue Apron, an ingredient and recipe meal kit company, has successfully used their podcast, “Why We Eat What We Eat”, to engage their customers.
By discussing food and recipes, they’ve deepened their relationship with their customers and created a loyal community of culinary explorers.
A well-produced, relevant podcast can be an excellent lead magnet. By providing valuable content to listeners, you attract potential customers to your brand.
From there, you can encourage them to visit your website, subscribe to your mailing list, or check out your products and services.
Over time, a podcast can even drive direct sales. You can use episodes to introduce new products or services, discuss their benefits, and direct listeners to where they can purchase them.
You can also run special promotions or discount codes exclusively for your podcast listeners to incentivise purchases.
Starting a podcast might sound like a daunting task, but with a little planning and the right tools, your business can be recording a podcast in no time. Here are some steps to get you started.
Before you hit the record button, take some time to define your podcast. What topics will you cover? Who is your target audience? What’s your unique angle?
Don’t forget to consider the format: will it be solo, interview-based, or a panel discussion?
Start with a list of at least 10 episode ideas. This will not only give you a head start but will also help you identify whether you have strong enough material for ongoing content.
Good audio quality is crucial for podcasting. However, you don’t necessarily need a professional recording studio to get started (although it’s HIGHLY recommended).
A decent USB microphone, a pop filter to reduce noise, and a pair of headphones for sound monitoring should suffice initially. Although if this is unfamiliar territory, getting some help with your recording is well worth the investment!
You’ll need software for both recording and editing. Audacity is a popular, free option that’s great for beginners.
Ideally, if you’re using a podcast recording studio, this should be taken care of for you!
Record in a quiet, echo-free environment. For editing, cut out mistakes, long pauses, and any unnecessary content to make the episode concise and engaging. If your podcast is lengthy, make sure you’ve either got a producer taking notes for you or you keep track of these edits to make the process easier.
Once your podcast episode is ready, you’ll need a podcast host to publish your podcast to platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts.
You may find podcast studios (like ours!) will take care of this for you, making the process simple.
In the world of digital marketing, trends come and go, but the rise of podcasting doesn’t seem to be fading away anytime soon.
Podcasts offer a unique and powerful way to connect with audiences, build brand awareness, and drive growth for your business.
Now that you understand the immense potential of podcasting, it’s time to take the leap. But where to start? Right here on the Sunshine Coast, at All In Creative’s brand-new podcast recording studio.
We offer a professional, fully-equipped space where you can bring your podcast vision to life. With high-quality recording equipment and a comfortable, inspiring environment, creating a podcast will be an exciting new adventure for your business.
At All In Creative, we’re dedicated to helping local businesses on the Sunshine Coast shine in the digital realm. Let us help you launch your podcast, engage your audience, and elevate your brand.
Why wait? Get in touch with us today, and we can get started on turning your business into the next podcast sensation.
