Friendly Podcast Guide: Teaching Women How to Grow a Podcast (Without Burning Out)

I deleted Instagram off my phone and my podcast downloads didn't drop a single bit. In this episode, I'm sharing exactly why I walked away from Instagram and the podcast marketing strategies I use instead to keep growing my show sustainably.Hi, I'm Andi Smiley, podcast coach for women and host of the Friendly Podcast Guide. I help women grow their podcasts without letting them take over their lives. I've grown my own show by 74% in the past year and gained over 200 email subscribers, all without relying on Instagram.Topics Discussed in This EpisodeWhy I deleted Instagram and how it was affecting my mental healthHow I realized Instagram wasn't driving my podcast growthWhy Pinterest is my favorite podcast marketing strategyHow to use Threads to build real connections and grow your audienceThe power of podcast guesting for networking and new listenersHow email marketing closes almost all of my salesWhy sustainable podcasting strategies matter more than being everywhere at onceKey TakeawaysYou don't need Instagram to grow your podcast…there are better, more sustainable options out therePinterest works like a search engine, which means your content keeps working for you long after you post itThreads is a low-lift platform where real conversations (and real connections) actually happenPodcast guesting is a slow burn, but the networking and referrals are incredibly valuableEmail marketing is where the sales magic happens, it's the strategy that closes almost all of my offersTimestamps(00:00) Intro (01:58) Why Instagram wasn't working for my podcast marketing (03:08) Pinterest as a podcast growth strategy (03:39) Why I love using Threads (04:43) Podcast guesting and the power of networking (07:07) Email marketing and how it closes my sales Links & ResourcesFree "Is Pinterest Right for Your Podcast?" checklistAbout Progress episode, The Practice of AttentionMy Pinterest episodeMy podcast guesting episodeMy episode with Whitney about podcast experimentsFollow Andi on Threads

What if the secret to growing your podcast wasn't doing more, but experimenting more? In this episode, I'm chatting with my friend Whitney, the queen of experiments herself, about how an experimental mindset can completely transform the way you podcast. From hiring contractors and rethinking email strategy to rerunning archive episodes and ditching bonus content, we're sharing the real experiments we're currently trying (and what we've learned from the ones that didn't quite pan out).Meet the ExpertWhitney is the host of The Family Lab, a podcast where she literally experiments with her family to figure out what works in parenting and home life. She brings that same curious, low-pressure approach to podcasting, which makes her one of my absolute favorite people to think out loud with about sustainable podcasting strategies.Topics Discussed in This EpisodeWhitney's experience hiring her first contractor to help launch a video podcastHow delegating podcast tasks (and thinking of it as an experiment) takes the pressure offMy experiment with splitting weekly emails into two focused sendsGrowing a small but mighty email list and actually making money from itUsing Threads as a surprisingly fun way to grow a podcast audienceWhy "reliability" might matter more than "consistency" in podcastingWhat Whitney is doing with her podcast archive to build out a self-reliance seriesMy experiment with skipping bonus episodes between seasons, and what I'm learningKey TakeawaysCalling something an experiment completely changes how you relate to it…especially when it doesn't go perfectly. It takes the failure personally out of the equation and turns your analytics into data rather than a verdict on your worth as a podcaster.You don't need a massive email list to support podcast growth or sell your offers. Starting small (even with 7 subscribers!) and staying consistent is what builds momentum over time.Outsourcing doesn't have to be all-or-nothing. Whitney and I both talked about the ongoing process of figuring out what to hand off and what to keep and how that balance shifts as skills and needs evolve.Reliability over consistency is a reframe worth considering. Your listeners want to be able to count on you to come back and show up with quality, not necessarily on a rigid weekly schedule.Timestamps(00:00) Welcome(00:31) Introducing Whitney and her experimental approach to podcasting(01:25) Whitney's experience hiring contractors and going video(05:53) My email list experiment: splitting sends and growing sustainably(09:38) Using Threads to grow a podcast audience without social media stress(11:58) Benefits of podcast experiments(15:59) The Open Lab experiment: building community one listener at a time(20:09) Some of our current podcast experiments(27:14) Reliability vs. consistency in podcasting (and parenting!)Links & ResourcesWhitney's podcast, The Family LabPinterest VIP Setup offerFriendly Podcast Guide on ThreadsThe Family Lab on Instagram

Ever wonder what a podcast coach actually does during a seasonal break? Spoiler: it's not resting! In this solo episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on all the podcast marketing strategies and Pinterest experiments I tested during my off-season… the wins, the messy moments, and the ones I'm still not sure about.Hey, I'm Andi Smiley, podcast coach for women who want to grow their shows without letting podcasting take over their lives. I share sustainable podcasting strategies, Pinterest marketing tips, and what actually works. I've been podcasting for four years, and last summer I used Pinterest to double my monthly downloads and land my most successful revenue month ever.Topics Discussed in This EpisodeLaunching Pinterest VIP setups and what I learned from filling all five spotsCleaning up and refreshing my own Pinterest profile and boardsPinning past episodes during a content break (and why it actually works)Creating a custom link page on my website instead of using LinktreeCompleting Pinterest Academy and earning my skills badgesJoining Simple Pin Media's Pinterest strategy groupSkipping bonus episodes this season and why I'm nervous about itBeing a podcast guest and doing workshops to grow downloads and email subscribersKey TakeawaysPinterest is a powerful, evergreen platform for podcast growth. Pins from months ago are still bringing in new listenersYou don't need new episodes to keep pinning! Fresh pin images for older episodes keep your content working for youSending traffic to your own website (instead of Linktree) is a simple win for SEO and visibilityInvesting in your own education (like Pinterest Academy) pays off in a big wayPodcast guesting and workshops are reliable ways to boost downloads and grow your email listEvery experiment, whether it works or flops, teaches you something valuable about how to grow your podcast without social media burnoutTimestamps(00:00) Intro & welcome back(00:26) Why Pinterest changed everything for my podcast growth(01:57) Experiment #1: Launching Pinterest VIP setups(02:52) Experiment #2: Cleaning up my Pinterest profile and boards(04:32) Experiment #3: Pinning past episodes during the break(05:41) Experiment #4: Building a custom link page on my website(06:27) Experiment #5: Completing Pinterest Academy(07:40) Experiment #6: Joining Simple Pin Media's Pinterest strategy group(08:36) Experiment #7: Skipping bonus episodes…the scariest experiment(10:26) Experiment #8: Podcast guesting and workshops(11:26) Your challenge: What experiment will YOU try?Links & Resources- Free "Is Pinterest Right for Your Podcast?" checklist- Simple Pin Media Pinterest strategy group- Follow Andi on Pinterest- Follow Andi on Threads

In this special Podcasthon episode, I’m highlighting an incredible nonprofit that’s making a real impact in the world of literacy. I sat down with Jennifer Jenkins, CEO of Operation Literacy, to talk about how they’re helping kids access books, discover a love for reading, and even see themselves as future authors. From book drop programs to massive storytelling conferences, this conversation will leave you inspired by what’s possible when we invest in the power of stories.Jennifer Jenkins is the CEO of Operation Literacy, a nonprofit organization dedicated to motivating readers and writers of all ages. With a background in writing and education, Jennifer has helped grow Operation Literacy into one of the largest teen writing communities in the country. Through programs like Teen Author Bootcamp (now StoryCon) and their impactful Book Drop initiative, she and her team are creating life-changing experiences for young readers and storytellers.Topics Discussed in This EpisodeHow Operation Literacy got started and evolved over timeThe impact of Teen Author Bootcamp and StoryConWhat the Book Drop program is and how it worksWhy access to physical books matters for kidsThe connection between reading, writing, and identityHow StoryCon supports both aspiring and published storytellersReal-life stories of how books are changing kids’ livesWays you can support Operation Literacy through volunteering or donatingKey TakeawaysAccess to books can be life-changing, especially for kids who don’t have them at homeMeeting authors helps kids believe their own stories matterPhysical books play an important role in early childhood developmentPrograms like Book Drop and StoryCon create both opportunity and inspirationSupporting literacy initiatives can have a ripple effect across entire communitiesTimestamps(00:00) Welcome(00:31) Meet Jennifer Jenkins and what she’s reading(02:12) How Operation Literacy began(04:40) What the Book Drop program is(06:11) How Operation Literacy is helping their community(10:01) Inside StoryCon and how it works(13:25) Emotional impact of book drops(21:16) How to get involved and supportLinks & ResourcesOperation Literacy WebsiteStory Con WebsiteFollow Operation Literacy on InstagramFollow Story Con USA on Instagram

Spring is the perfect time to refresh more than just your house, it’s a great opportunity to clean up parts of your podcast that may not be serving you anymore. In this episode, I’m sharing two areas of your podcast that deserve a little spring cleaning so you can grow your show more effectively without piling more work onto your plate.If you want sustainable podcast growth, sometimes the best strategy isn’t doing more, it’s refining what you’re already doing.Hey, I’m Andi Smiley, your friendly podcast guide! I help women grow their podcasts without burning out by focusing on sustainable podcasting strategies that actually work. After years of podcasting, experimenting with marketing methods, and helping other podcasters grow their shows, I’ve learned that small strategic tweaks can make a huge difference in how your podcast performs.Topics Discussed in This EpisodeWhy spring is the perfect time to reevaluate your podcast strategyA simple way to improve your podcast SEO without rebrandingHow adding a short phrase to your podcast title can help listeners find youWhy reviewing your past episodes can reveal SEO improvement opportunitiesHow to audit your podcast marketing strategiesWhy some marketing platforms may not actually help grow your podcastHow to identify which marketing methods are worth your timeBuilding a sustainable podcast marketing strategy that works for your lifeKey TakeawaysYou don’t need to completely rebrand your show to improve your podcast SEO, sometimes adding a descriptive phrase to your podcast title is enough.Revisiting older episodes and updating titles or descriptions can help more listeners discover your podcast.Not all marketing platforms contribute equally to podcast growth, so it’s important to analyze what’s actually working.A sustainable podcasting strategy focuses on the marketing methods that deliver real results.Timestamps(00:00) Why spring is the perfect time for podcast cleanup(00:39) How Pinterest helped grow my podcast downloads(02:15) Improving your podcast SEO with a simple title tweak(03:28) Reviewing past episodes for SEO improvements(04:21) Auditing your podcast marketing methods(05:08) Why Instagram isn’t a main growth driver for my podcast(06:37) Final thoughts on sustainable podcast marketingLinks & ResourcesFree Is Pinterest Right for Your Podcast? ChecklistConnect with Andi on Threads

If marketing your podcast feels overwhelming, you’re not alone. In this episode, I’m sharing three simple podcast marketing strategies that help you grow your audience without spending all your time promoting your show. These are the exact tools I use to grow my podcast and business while keeping marketing sustainable and manageable.I’m Andi Smiley, a podcast coach who helps women grow their podcasts without letting marketing take over their lives. I’m passionate about sharing strategies that actually work, the things I wish someone had told me earlier, and conversations with smart podcasters who are doing things differently.Topics Discussed in This EpisodeHow to grow a podcast audience without spending hours on marketingWhy Pinterest is a powerful search engine for podcast marketingHow Pinterest helped double my podcast downloadsWhy podcast guesting is one of the best ways to find new listenersHow guesting helps people connect with your voice and styleUsing Threads as a simple, low-effort marketing platformWhy sustainable podcast marketing matters for long-term growthSimple podcast marketing strategies that don’t take over your lifeKey TakeawaysPinterest, podcast guesting, and Threads are three powerful ways to grow your podcast without constantly chasing algorithms or spending hours creating content.Pinterest works as a search engine, meaning your content can continue bringing in listeners months or even years later. Podcast guesting introduces you to people who already love listening to podcasts, making it easier to turn listeners into subscribers. Threads allows you to share ideas quickly and connect with other podcasters in a low-pressure way.When you focus on sustainable podcast marketing strategies, you can grow your audience while still having time for the rest of your life.Timestamps(00:00) My goal as a podcast coach(00:23) How Pinterest changed my podcast growth(01:47) Why Pinterest works for podcast marketing(02:23) Podcast guesting as a growth strategy(03:12) Using Threads to market your podcastLinks & ResourcesIs Pinterest Right for Your Podcast? ChecklistPinterest episodePodcast guesting episodeConnect with me:ThreadsPinterest

If you’ve been wondering how to grow a podcast audience without living on social media, this episode is for you. I’m breaking down exactly how Pinterest helped me double my downloads, grow my email list, and have my highest revenue month ever. I’m sharing what changed, what actually worked, and why Pinterest might be the most underrated podcast marketing strategy out there.Meet the ExpertHey, I’m Andi Smiley, podcast coach for women and the unofficial “Pinterest for podcasting girl.” I help women grow their shows using sustainable podcasting strategies that don’t take over their lives. After going all in on Pinterest, I saw a 100% increase in monthly downloads, gained more than 100 email subscribers, and hit my highest revenue month in four years of podcasting.Topics Discussed in This EpisodeHow to grow a podcast audience using PinterestWhy Pinterest is not dead (and the real stats behind it)The difference between social media and Pinterest marketingHow to grow a podcast without social mediaSimple podcast marketing strategies that compound over timeWhy consistency matters more than volume on PinterestBusting myths about who can succeed on PinterestKey TakeawaysPinterest rewards clarity, consistency, and strong keywords.You don’t need to create dozens of pins per day, you need a sustainable system you can stick with.Pinterest is not just for food bloggers or DIY creators. It works beautifully for podcasters, coaches, and educators.You don’t need stunning, complicated graphics to succeed with Pinterest. You need clear messaging.If Instagram feels exhausting, Pinterest might be a more sustainable podcast marketing strategy for you in 2026.Timestamps(00:00) Why I’m known as the Pinterest for podcasting girl(01:22) My Pinterest story(02:57) 100% increase in downloads + revenue growth(04:02) Myth #1: Pinterest is dead(04:25) Myth #2: Only food & DIY bloggers succeed(04:53) Myth #3: Only gorgeous pins work(05:30) Is Pinterest right for your podcast?Links & ResourcesFree “Is Pinterest Right for My Podcast?” ChecklistConnect with me on Threads

Season 5 is here and we are diving deep into how to grow a podcast audience in a way that actually works and doesn’t take over your life. In this short trailer episode, I’m sharing what you can expect this season, from podcast marketing strategies that are worth your time to sustainable podcasting strategies that help you grow without burning out.If you’ve been wondering how to grow a podcast in 2026, or how to grow a podcast without social media this season is for you.Meet the ExpertHey, I’m Andi Smiley, podcast coach for women and your friendly guide to building a podcast that supports your life instead of consuming it. I’m obsessed with helping you grow your podcast audience using strategies that are sustainable, strategic, and actually doable. I share the things I wish someone had told me earlier and bring on smart podcasters who are doing things differently and successfully.Topics Discussed in This EpisodeWhat Season 5 of the podcast is all aboutHow to grow a podcast audience without letting it rule your lifeSustainable podcasting strategies that actually workPodcast marketing strategies worth experimenting withWhat’s working (and what’s flopping) in podcast growth right nowUsing email marketing to grow your podcast audienceWhether Pinterest is a smart podcast growth toolHow to grow a podcast without social media burnoutKey TakeawaysSeason 5 is focused on intentional growth not hustle-for-the-sake-of-hustle growth.You don’t need to be everywhere to grow your podcast.Experimenting is part of building a sustainable podcast.Email marketing and Pinterest can be powerful podcast marketing strategies — when used strategically.You can grow a podcast audience in 2026 without sacrificing your time, creativity, or sanity.

Feeling the holiday crunch? In this episode, I share five sustainable strategies for keeping your podcast going strong (without the stress) through the busiest season of the year. Whether you're juggling school parties, wrapping gifts, or just trying to breathe, there's a tip here to help you market and manage your podcast without burning out.Hi, I'm Andi Smiley, podcast coach for women who want to grow their shows in ways that feel sustainable and aligned. I blend strategy with real-life experience to help you keep podcasting fun, effective, and burnout-free, even during the holidays!Topics Discussed in This EpisodeHow to market your podcast during the holidaysThe benefits of shorter, seasonal episodesWhy batching content in December is a game-changerMy favorite holiday-themed episode ideasHow to replay old episodes without sounding lazyWhy Pinterest is my go-to for low-maintenance marketingWhat to say when taking a seasonal podcast breakGiving yourself permission to restKey TakeawaysYou don’t need to quit podcasting, or stress yourself out, just because it’s the holidays. Instead, create shorter episodes, batch when you can, bring back old favorites, and consider taking an intentional break. The magic is in doing what works best for you.Timestamps(00:00) Holiday countdown + intro (00:59) My Pinterest strategy for podcast marketing (02:03) Tip 1: Plan for the chaos (02:30) Tip 2: Batch your content (03:01) Tip 3: Lean into the holidays (03:45) Tip 4: Reuse past content (04:45) Tip 5: Take a break (06:06) Recap of all 5 tips Links & ResourcesFree Pinterest Checklist: Is Pinterest Right For Me?Follow me on ThreadsFollow me on Pinterest

What does it take to grow a podcast audience in a fresh, creative way? In this episode, I’m joined by Hayden Gray, producer of the wildly successful Fantasy Fan Girls podcast. We dive into marketing strategies that feel fun, sustainable, and community-driven.Hayden Gray is the producer and “sanity manager” of Fantasy Fan Girls, a book deep-dive podcast that exploded with 5,000 downloads just days after launch. With a background in podcast production and creative storytelling, Hayden brings a grounded, fresh perspective on podcast marketing that feels human and doable.Topics Discussed in This EpisodeHow Fantasy Fan Girls used pre-launch clips to build early buzzWhy deep audience connection beats fancy marketingWhat makes social media clips actually workThe power of community-driven growthCreative marketing strategies beyond InstagramHow to “excitement stack” for launchesDiscovering your niche within a crowded categoryThe secret to sustainable podcasting: passionKey TakeawaysBuild excitement before your launch (or new season!)Focus on genuine community over one-way promotionFind your listeners in unexpected places—Pinterest, Facebook groups, real life!Lean into what you love; passion makes podcasting sustainableBig growth can come from small, intentional experimentsTimestamps (00:00) Intro and fangirling over Fantasy Fan Girls (01:51) Meet Hayden Gray (02:47) How the show hit 5,000 downloads in days (05:13) What worked (and didn’t) on social media (07:32) Building buzz with your community (09:14) Creative ways to connect with listeners (14:15) Hayden’s “aha” moment: excitement stacking (24:08) Why passion is the real growth strategy (26:11) A quick recap and your one next stepLinks & ResourcesGrab my free “Is Pinterest Right for Me?” checklistFantasy Fan Girls podcastFollow me on InstagramFriendly Podcast Guide website

Websites feel like a tricky topic in the podcasting world—but they don’t have to be! In this episode, I’m sharing my honest take on whether you really need a website for your show, when it makes sense to invest in one, and how it can actually make podcasting more sustainable. Plus, I’m spilling how Pinterest and SEO play a surprising role in your podcast growth.Hi! I’m Andi Smiley, your podcast coach for women who want to grow a podcast in 2026 and beyond—without burning out. I’ve built a sustainable podcasting strategy that works around real life (hello, carpool lanes and fantasy novels). On my show, I share real-talk podcast tips, lessons from my journey, and conversations with podcasters who inspire me.Topics Discussed in This EpisodeWhy websites feel like a “taboo” topic for podcastersWhether you actually need a website for your podcastMy personal website misstep when I started outWhen it’s the right time to add a websiteHow a website can support your business and podcastThe SEO power of having your own siteHow Pinterest and websites work together for growthOne simple action step to figure out your next moveKey TakeawaysIf you’re new to podcasting, skip the website for now and focus on creating great episodes. But if you’ve been podcasting for a year or more, it’s time to seriously consider adding one—especially if you’re ready to grow. A website makes your show more discoverable through SEO, gives your content a longer shelf life, and boosts your credibility. And if you’re using Pinterest? A verified website will help your pins get seen by more people.Timestamps(00:00) Welcome(00:24) My first podcast website mistake(01:41) When to skip a website (and when to invest)(02:25) How to add your podcast to your business website(03:07) Benefits of owning your content space(03:54) Taking yourself—and your podcast—seriously(04:19) SEO and website discoverability(04:48) Pinterest perks when you own your site(05:31) 5-minute self-evaluation LinksGrab my free “Is Pinterest Right for Me?” checklistFollow me on ThreadsFollow me on InstagramVisit my website

Email marketing and growing your email list doesn't have to be intimidating. In this episode, I’m sharing smart and simple ways to grow your podcast email list using creative freebies your audience will actually want. Plus, I give you a sneak peek at how Pinterest is helping me grow my show without leaning on Instagram.Hi, I’m Andi Smiley, your go-to podcast coach for women who want to grow their shows without burning out. I mix storytelling, proven podcast marketing strategies, and a whole lot of cheerleading to help you build a podcast that grows and sustains itself. This episode is packed with tips from my own experience and other podcasters I admire.Topics Discussed in This EpisodeWhy email marketing is a game changer for podcastersHow to get your listeners to actually join your listWhat makes a great podcast freebieQuick freebie ideas you can create in under an hourBehind-the-scenes examples from real podcastersMy own successful freebie that still gets signupsHow to promote your freebie naturally in your episodesBonus ways to share your freebie beyond your podcastKey TakeawaysYour freebie doesn’t need to be fancy, it just needs to be helpful and specific to your audience’s needs. You can use checklists, behind-the-scenes content, or even show notes to give your listeners a reason to sign up. Once you’ve created it, promote it consistently across your podcast, Pinterest, and guest appearances to get the word out.Timestamps (00:00) Intro to growing your email list (01:10) Pinterest for podcast (01:52) Freebie basics for your email list (02:36) Freebie ideas you can create fast (03:02) Real-life freebie examples from other podcasters(04:49) My own podcast freebie success story (06:20) How to promote your freebie (07:39) One simple step to get startedLinks & ResourcesGrab my “Is Pinterest Right For Me?” checklistFollow me on InstagramAbout Progress PodcastFantasy Fangirls Podcast

I've been keeping a little secret from you… it's email! In this episode, I’m spilling the beans on one of the quiet powerhouses behind my sustainable podcast marketing strategy—email lists. I’m sharing the why, the how, and one simple action you can take today to start building a deeper connection with your listeners (without burning out or relying on social media).Hi, I’m Andi Smiley—your go-to podcast coach for women who want to grow a podcast audience without hustling 24/7. I help you build sustainable podcasting strategies with tools that feel doable, not draining. With Pinterest and email as my dynamic duo, I’ve discovered ways to market my podcast that leave more room for life.Topics Discussed in This EpisodeWhy email is a sustainable podcasting strategyHow Pinterest changed my podcast marketingThe one email you should start sending nowHow email helps grow your podcast without social mediaWhat kind of email content helps build listener connectionHow long should podcast emails be?Should your podcast emails include images?Finding your ideal email sending rhythmKey TakeawaysEmail lets you connect without algorithms getting in the way.You own your email list—social media can’t take it away.One simple, consistent email per week can make a big impact.Start with an episode update email—keep it short and sweet.Batch your emails when you’re in a good headspace.Listeners who feel connected are more likely to share your show.You don’t need a huge list to start emailing!Tools like Kit or Flodesk make starting an email list easy.Timestamps (00:00) Podcast intro(00:53) Pinterest vs. Instagram for podcast growth (01:46) Why email works so well for podcasters (02:34) Scheduling emails for your future self (03:36) Building deeper listener relationships through email(05:00) How long should emails be? (06:48) How often should you send emails? (08:11) What if you don’t have many listeners yet? (09:02) What if email feels like too much work? (09:43) Does anyone still read email? (10:28) One easy action step to start todayLinks & ResourcesIs Pinterest Right for Me? ChecklistPorch Group Media: Email Usage StatsKit email platformGet 50% off your first year of Flodesk using this affiliate linkConnect with me on InstagramConnect with me on ThreadsConnect with me on Pinterest

In this insight-packed episode, I sit down with podcast strategist Ana Xavier to unpack our biggest takeaways from Podcast Movement. From sustainable podcasting strategies to surprising gaps in marketing conversations (hello, Pinterest!), we cover all the juicy tips podcasters need to grow their audience without burning out.Meet the ExpertAna Xavier is a podcast growth strategist and the voice behind The Podcast Space. With years of experience helping creators grow their shows sustainably, Ana brings a data-driven yet practical approach to podcast coaching. She's all about making podcasting work for you, not the other way around.Topics Discussed in This EpisodeOur top two takeaways from Podcast MovementWhy podcast SEO (or PSO) is non-negotiableTips for optimizing old episodes with new keywordsCreative and collaborative ways to grow your podcastHow to make podcasting sustainable and enjoyableWhy Pinterest is a massively overlooked marketing platformRethinking monetization beyond traditional sponsorshipsHow podcasters can stand out—even when competing with celebritiesKey TakeawaysPodcast SEO is a long-term, low-maintenance strategy that works even on past episodesCollaborating with other podcasters is more powerful than competingChoose a marketing strategy that excites you so you can stick with itCelebrities aren’t your competition—your uniqueness is your edgeMonetization can look like local sponsors, subscriptions, or creative partnershipsTimestamps(00:00) Welcome(02:15) Meet Ana Xavier(05:54) Takeaway 1: Podcast SEO is essential(10:48) Updating old episodes for better growth(14:22) Takeaway 2: Podcasters as collaborators(19:40) Creative ways to collaborate(23:30) Podcast growth myths and truths(28:18) The Pinterest gap in podcast marketing(33:10) Celebrities and ad dollars: should we worry?(39:25) Sustainable podcasting strategies(44:40) Final thoughts and one simple stepLinks & ResourcesAna's show The Podcast SpaceFollow Ana on InstagramMy Pinterest course: Pinterest Magic for PodcastersSponsorship guide by Justin Moore: Sponsor Magnet

Ready to grow your podcast without living on social media? In this episode, I break down four powerful podcast swap strategies, from guesting to feed drops, that will help you market your show and build real connections with other podcasters. These swaps are simple, organic, and yes, totally doable (even if you're new to collaborating).Hey, I’m Andi Smiley, your go-to podcast coach for women who want to grow their show sustainably. I love teaching marketing strategies that don't rely on daily posting, and I’ve used podcast swaps and Pinterest to grow my audience without burnout.Topics Discussed in This EpisodeWhat podcast swaps are (and why they work)The 4 main types of podcast swapsTips for making your guest appearances countHow to keep your podcast feed fresh with a feed dropEasy trailer swaps that boost discoverabilityWhy prerecorded intros are a hidden gemReal examples of podcast swaps that workedHow to reach out to other podcasters with confidenceKey TakeawaysPodcast swaps help you grow your show without needing social media.The 4 main types: guesting, feed drops, trailer swaps, and prerecorded intros.Always pitch with generosity, explain why it’s a good fit and how it benefits their audience.Start small: research shows with a similar audience and suggest a simple swap.Timestamps(00:00) Welcome(00:53) My big aha moment with Pinterest marketing(01:50) What is a podcast swap?(02:11) Podcast guesting and why it works(02:51) Feed drops explained(03:24) How trailer swaps work(03:36) Tip from Lauren Passell on swaps with bigger shows(04:15) Why prerecorded intros are a hidden gem(05:19) How to pitch a podcast swap (without being weird)(05:51) Start small—do this one step todayLinks & ResourcesPinterest Magic for PodcastersTink Media’s Podcast Friends ListThe Podcast Space with Ana XavierFollow me on InstagramVisit my website

Pinterest can feel overwhelming, especially after last week’s info-packed chat with expert Megan Williamson. So in this episode, I'm breaking it down with a simple, four-step Pinterest strategy any podcaster can start using today. Whether you're brand new to Pinterest or want a sustainable way to grow your podcast audience without social media—this one's for you!Meet the ExpertHi, I'm Andi Smiley, your friendly podcast coach for women! I help women podcasters grow their shows without burning out through actionable strategies, stories from my own podcasting journey, and advice from some of the best in the industry.Topics Discussed in This EpisodeWhy Pinterest is a search engine (not social media!)What keywords actually are—and how to find the right onesHow to set up your Pinterest business account for successThe importance of consistency over volumeHow many pins you really need to post per weekTools that make pin creation fast and easyHow pins keep bringing traffic months laterWhat to do first if you're starting from scratchKey TakeawaysPinterest isn't about perfection—it's about consistency.Start with one pin a week and grow from there.Your pins can drive traffic long after they’re posted.Keyword research is easier than you think—just use Pinterest’s own search bar.“Done is better than perfect” is the mantra for sustainable Pinterest success.Timestamps (00:00) Welcome (00:53) Step 1: Optimize with keywords (02:17) Step 2: Set up your Pinterest account (02:58) Step 3: Plan your Pinterest strategy (04:14) Step 4: Pin and grow (05:40) What to do first if you're just starting with Pinterest as a PodcasterLinks & ResourcesGrab Pinterest Magic for PodcastersListen to last week’s episode with Meagan WilliamsonFind me on ThreadsFind me on PinterestFind me on Instagram

Ever wonder how people actually find your podcast? In this episode, I’m breaking down the basics of podcast SEO—what it is, why it matters, and how to start using it right now to grow your show. These simple, repeatable strategies will help your podcast get discovered on both podcast apps and Google—without burning you out.Hi, I’m Andi Smiley, your friendly podcast guide and podcast coach for women who want to grow their shows sustainably. I’ve built my podcast through smart, low-stress marketing strategies like SEO and Pinterest and I’m sharing the exact steps with you.Topics Discussed in This EpisodeWhat podcast SEO is and why it mattersHow to brainstorm the right search phrasesUsing Google autocomplete to expand your keyword listWhere to place keywords in your podcast contentWhy you don’t need to rename your podcast to improve SEOHow Pinterest supports long-term podcast growthReal-life results from my own Pinterest strategyKey TakeawaysPodcast SEO isn’t as hard, or technical, as it sounds. It starts with knowing what your listener is searching for, using those phrases naturally in your titles and descriptions, and repeating the process across all your content. The best part? Once you’ve done it, those strategies keep working in the background while you go live your life.Timestamps (00:00) Intro & who this episode is for (00:37) How Pinterest helped grow my podcast (01:26) Step 1: Brainstorm podcast seo keywords (01:56) Step 2: Use Google to expand your podcast seo keywords (02:41) Step 3: Add podcast seo keywords everywhere (03:26) Step 4: Repeat across your content (03:58) One simple step to get started Links & ResourcesGrab the free checklist: Is Pinterest Right for Me?Connect with me on InstagramConnect with me on ThreadsSubscribe to the show so you don’t miss next week’s Pinterest episode!

In this episode, I’m sharing powerful, real-life advice from seven inspiring mom podcasters to help you grow your podcast audience without burning out. From mindset shifts to smart marketing strategies and time-saving tools, these nuggets of wisdom (plus my own commentary) are here to encourage and energize your podcasting journey.I asked seven amazing mom podcasters to share their best sustainable podcasting strategies. You'll hear advice from:Candace, The Podcasting Mentor: Better BraveScotti, Unlocking School SuccessKristen, Amplify AmbitionAshley, Taboo ScienceErin & Heather, Three KitchensSarah & Kenzie, Cosmic Group ChatRachel, Teenagers Untangled ...and of course, I’m adding in my own thoughts and lessons from coaching podcasters just like you.Topics Discussed in This EpisodeHow to grow a podcast audience without social media burnoutWhy Pinterest might be your secret marketing weaponMindset shifts that help you hit publishTime-saving podcast systems for momsPerfectionism and why “done” is better than perfectThe power of batching and working aheadSmart ways to use AI tools for podcastingGuesting tips that actually help your podcast growWhat sustainable podcasting really looks likeKey TakeawaysStart before you’re ready—your voice matters now, not “someday”Podcasting doesn’t need to be perfect to be powerfulProtect your energy with intentional breaks and flexibilityUse Pinterest for long-term podcast growth without social overloadSystems and tools (including AI) can help you stay consistentLetting go of perfection is one of the best podcast tips for momsTimestamps (00:00) Welcome and intro (00:34) Why I switched from Instagram to Pinterest (01:27) Mindset tips (03:53) Protect your energy (06:28) Build systems and use tools (12:00) Final thoughts & your one next stepLinks & ResourcesJoin the waitlist for Pinterest Magic for Podcasters (launches Sept 29 – get $10 off!)Follow me on InstagramCandace’s podcast: The Podcasting Mentor: Better BraveScotti’s podcast: Unlocking School SuccessKristen’s podcast: Amplify AmbitionAshley’s podcast: Taboo ScienceErin & Heather’s podcast: Three KitchensSarah & Kenzie’s podcast: Cosmic Group ChatRachel’s podcast: Teenagers Untangled

Ready to grow your podcast in 2026 without burning out? In this episode, I'm sharing four sustainable, impactful strategies to help you stand out and stay energized as a mom who podcasts. Plus, I reveal how Pinterest quietly revolutionized my own podcast growth—and how it can do the same for you.Hi, I’m Andi Smiley—your podcast guide and coach for moms who want to grow their shows in a way that fits their real life. I bring practical podcast tips, honest stories from my own journey, and wisdom from brilliant podcasters and experts (like the Pinterest pro I’ll be featuring soon!).Topics Discussed in this EpisodeFour podcast growth strategies for 2026How podcast SEO helps more listeners find your showUsing Pinterest instead of Instagram for podcast marketingWhy average consumption rate matters more than downloadsWhere to find your podcast analytics beyond downloadsHow Pinterest helped my podcast reach new listenersTips for taking intentional podcast breaks (without ghosting)Encouragement for sustainable podcastingTakeawaysPodcast SEO isn’t scary—just use real words your listeners search for.Pinterest is the podcast marketing platform no one’s talking about (yet!).Pay attention to how long people actually listen to your episodes.Breaks are powerful—but tell your listeners what to expect!Start by creating just one pin. It could change everything.(00:00) Welcome(00:32) My big podcast marketing aha moment(01:24) Podcast growth tip #1: Make Podcast SEO your friend(02:35) Tip #2: Pinterest over Instagram(04:21) Tip #3: Look at your average consumption rate(05:33) Tip #4: Take intentional podcast breaks(06:32) Your one next step: Try PinterestGet on the waitlist for Pinterest Magic for PodcastersEpisode with Brittany Herzberg on SEOApple Podcast ConnectCreate Pins with CanvaFollow me on Pinterest

In this episode, I'm breaking down my Top 5 Takeaways from Podcast Movement, the biggest podcasting conference in the U.S. Whether you're brand new or a few seasons in, these tips will help you grow your podcast audience, feel less pressure around social media, and explore fresh, sustainable strategies for podcast marketing and monetization.I'm Andi Smiley—podcast coach for moms and host of this show! I help mom podcasters grow without burnout by sharing practical podcasting tips and lessons from my own journey. I just got back from Podcast Movement, and I’m spilling the top insights that can make a big difference for your show.Topics Discussed in This EpisodeHow podcast SEO can help your audience find youWhy Instagram doesn’t need to be your main marketing channelMy podcast strategies: podcast swaps, podcast SEO and PinterestSeeing other podcasters as collaborators, not competitionMultiple ways to make money podcasting beyond adsThe surprising ROI of Pinterest for podcast marketingWhat to focus on if you're overwhelmed with podcast growthKey TakeawaysFocus on podcast SEO—it’s the gift that keeps on giving.Social media is great for connection, but not ideal for growth.Podcast swaps are a powerful way to grow your listener base.Collaborate with podcasters in your niche—you’re stronger together.Monetization isn’t just ads! Paid subscriptions are a great option for smaller shows.One action step: optimize your podcast with SEO-friendly keywords.Timestamps(00:00) Welcome(00:33) My Pinterest “aha” moment(01:40) Takeaway 1: Podcast SEO(03:00) Takeaway 2: Social media ≠ podcast marketing(03:38) Takeaway 3: Podcast swaps(04:28) Takeaway 4: Collaborating with similar shows(06:06) Takeaway 5: Different ways to monetize your podcast(07:34) One action stepLinks & ResourcesJoin the Pinterest Magic for Podcasters waitlist (and get $10 off when it launches)Brittany Herzberg SEO InterviewFollow me on InstagramLearn more on the Friendly Podcast Guide website