Podcast Cafe: How to Grow a Successful Podcast

Owning a business means owning the way you show up, lead, and structure your work behind the scenes. This conversation is a reminder that your systems, boundaries, and fun matter just as much as your offer.Amy Sussex, host of Beyond Your Business (previously You Are Your Business) joins me to talk about what it really looks like to build a business that supports your life—not the other way around. She shares how a hard year pushed her to claim her voice, start a podcast for genuine connection, and rethink what success means as a mom and entrepreneur. You’ll hear how she mapped out 40+ steps in her podcast workflow, simplified her systems, and used those insights to finally outsource her editing.Takeaways:Documenting your processes turns overwhelm into clarity and makes hiring so much easierSimple tools (like a Google Doc and ClickUp checklist) are often all you need for strong systemsClear communication channels for your team prevent chaos in Slack, email, and DMsWeekly money dates help you spot unnecessary expenses and make better business decisionsPrioritizing fun and what truly lights you up fuels both your life and your business growthConnect with Amy:Website: https://thebusinessmanagementco.com/aboutPodcast: https://thebusinessmanagementco.com/podcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/amy.sussex/Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:Apply to work with us: https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/6521a4cc8fdeed003a859a44Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklistWebsite: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProductionMy favorite podcast tool, Descript: https://www.descript.com/?lmref=KkInCQProduced by Espresso Podcast Production: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com

A full year of conversations, creativity, and caffeine-fueled momentum deserves a moment of celebration.Podcast Café officially turns one, and this episode breaks down what this year has really meant behind the scenes.Over the past twelve months, Podcast Café has evolved into a home for business owners, podcasters, and creators who want to do this work with more intention, momentum, and mastery. In this anniversary episode, I’m reflecting on what I’ve learned from dozens of interviews, how this show has shaped my own business, and the conversations that shifted my perspective the most. You’ll hear what’s changing, what’s staying, and how I’m leveling up the podcast to serve you even better in year two.If you’re a podcaster, soon-to-be podcaster, or a business owner craving content that actually moves the needle—this episode is your permission to recommit, refresh, and realign the way you show up behind the mic.Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:Apply to work with us: https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/6521a4cc8fdeed003a859a44Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklist⁠Website: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/⁠YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction⁠My favorite podcast tool, Descript: https://www.descript.com/?lmref=KkInCQ Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com

This episode is a must-listen if you want to use your podcast as your primary marketing channel.In this episode of Podcast Café, I sit down with Dalene, host of Wealthy After 40, to talk about how she uses her podcast to attract aligned clients, build trust, and grow her business without relying on social media. Dalene started her show in 2023 and now has more than 140 episodes, strong SEO traction, and a highly engaged Gen X listener base, all from consistent solo episodes and clear messaging.We dive into why her show performs so well, how she positions her content, and how she turns listeners into coaching clients through simple, repeatable systems. You’ll hear how she chooses topics, how she navigates “giving too much away,” and why podcasting feels easier and more natural to her than any other form of content creation.In this episode:How Dalene built a listener base that converts, even in a niche as specific as Gen X retirement planningWhy podcasting became her primary marketing tool (and how she uses it to avoid constant social media creation)How she uses SEO-driven titles and topics to get discovered organicallyHer approach to solo episodes and why she shifted away from interviewsHow she repurposes 140+ episodes inside her nurture emails to guide listeners to the right contentWhat she includes in her freebie to naturally lead listeners into paid sessionsHow she talks about money on-air in a way that builds trust, safety, and connectionConnect with Dalene: https://msha.ke/elevatefinancesConnect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:Apply to work with us: https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/6521a4cc8fdeed003a859a44Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklist⁠Website: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/⁠YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction⁠My favorite podcast tool, Descript: https://www.descript.com/?lmref=KkInCQ Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com

A podcast is not a nice-to-have; it’s a strategic brand asset that compounds over time.Networking pro and PR agency founder Zoe Weisberg Coady, host of Not Perfect Networking, joins me in the Podcast Café to make the case that a podcast is an essential owned channel for every modern brand. We get into how podcasts fuel thought leadership, strengthen real relationships (not transactional “networking”), and plug into today’s evolving media landscape. If you’ve been “thinking about starting,” this one’s your nudge.In this episodeWhy Zoe believes every business should have a podcast—and how it sits alongside LinkedIn, your website, and other owned platforms.How to reframe networking from awkward and transactional to community-building and career-shaping.Lessons from 15+ years in PR: timing, cultural relevance, and creating friction in your stories so media—and listeners—care now, not “someday.”The power of a podcast to amplify thought leadership, attract media, and open doors to surprising relationships.What stops most people from launching (tech, consistency) and simple ways to remove the friction.Zoe’s next move: the Not Perfect Podcast Network—and how I’ll be helping bring it to life.Connect with Zoe: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zoe-weisberg-coady-57aab37/Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:Apply to work with us: https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/6521a4cc8fdeed003a859a44Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklist⁠Website: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/⁠YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction⁠My favorite podcast tool, Descript: https://www.descript.com/?lmref=KkInCQ Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com

It’s the end of October, which means my DMs are full of people asking, “Can you help me launch my podcast before the end of the year?” And while I love helping people launch podcasts — it’s my favorite part of what I do — there are a few things you should know if you’re hoping to launch before January 1st.In this episode, I’m breaking down what actually goes into a podcast launch, why the holiday season can make things tricky, and how to decide if you should start now or wait until Q1. I’ll also share the same six-week launch timeline I walk my clients through, and what you can do this week to set yourself up for success.And, since it’s that time of year, I’m giving you first access to my annual Black Friday offer — $500 off your podcast launch with only a $500 deposit to hold your spot for 2026.If you’ve been sitting on your podcast idea for months (or years), this episode will help you figure out whether now is the right time to finally get started.In This Episode:Why launching a podcast at the end of the year can feel rushedWhat a realistic 6-week podcast launch timeline looks likeWhy it’s better to start now and coast into the new yearHow the holidays impact recording and marketing timelinesThree steps you can take this week if you want to start planning your podcastDetails about my Black Friday offer and how to claim a spotI’m opening my Black Friday offer early to my podcast listeners! You’ll get $500 off your podcast launch and only need a $500 deposit to hold your spot. You can launch anytime in 2026 — no rush, no stress.Just DM me “Black Friday” on Instagram or email me to grab one of only 8 available spots before the end of November.Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:Apply to work with us: https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/6521a4cc8fdeed003a859a44Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklist⁠Website: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/⁠YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction⁠My favorite podcast tool, Descript: https://www.descript.com/?lmref=KkInCQ Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com

What happens when you make the show you wish existed—then let it grow with you? Heather Harrington, host of Hot Mess Espresso, joins me in the Podcast Café to get real about mental health, pivoting your niche, and marketing a deeply personal show without burning out.In This Episode, You’ll LearnThe origin of “Hot Mess Espresso” and why a memorable, punny brand beats “safe but forgettable.”Pivoting with integrity: how Heather expanded beyond BPD-only content as her healing progressed—without abandoning her audience.Vulnerability with guardrails: what to share now, what to process offline first, and how to handle the “fallout” with grace.Editing philosophy: keep the human moments, cut the chaos (and when “raw” needs a light filter).Marketing that works (indie edition):Using TikTok Lives to build a loyal listener base from 1,100 followers to true community.Repurposing 4–5 short clips/week across TikTok, IG Reels, and YouTube.Posting casting calls on Threads and “gently bullying” friends to boost reach.Why batching + scheduling your assets is non-negotiable.Monetization for personal shows: Heather’s path to her first sponsor, what ambassadorships/affiliates are really for, and how to build a simple “brand deal résumé.”Community as a safety net: designing chat norms so your audience supports each other when you can’t be on 24/7.Mindset shifts: the most surprising thing podcasting taught Heather—she’s capable.Connect with HeatherPodcast: Hot Mess EspressoTikTok & Instagram: @hotmess.espressoYouTube: youtube.com/hotmessespressoConnect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:Apply to work with us: https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/6521a4cc8fdeed003a859a44Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklist⁠Website: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/⁠YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction⁠My favorite podcast tool, Descript: https://www.descript.com/?lmref=KkInCQ Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com

Your podcast titles might be the reason people aren’t clicking play. In this quick Espresso Shot, Hayleigh Hayhurst breaks down the biggest mistakes podcasters make with their episode titles and exactly how to fix them so your show stands out in search and gets more listens.In This Episode, You’ll Learn:The 3 biggest mistakes podcasters make with their titlesWhy your title is essentially an ad for your episodeHow to write titles that are clear, searchable, and scroll-stoppingMy 5-step title formula:Real-world examples you can adapt for your nicheWant a professional eye on your podcast?Send me a DM on Instagram with your podcast title ideas — she’ll send back a quick voice note with feedback on how to make them more clickable.Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:Apply to work with us: https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/6521a4cc8fdeed003a859a44Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklist⁠Website: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/⁠YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction⁠My favorite podcast tool, Descript: https://www.descript.com/?lmref=KkInCQ Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com

Most podcasters treat their show notes like an afterthought—and it’s costing them downloads. In this Espresso Shot episode, I’m breaking down the biggest mistake I see podcasters make with their notes (and no, it’s not what you think).If your show notes are vague, keyword-free, or written only for current listeners, you’re missing out on one of the most powerful discoverability tools you have. Unlike big shows that can rely on name recognition, most of us need to use our notes strategically to get found in podcast searches and convert curious browsers into actual listeners.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why short or generic show notes hurt your growthHow to write notes for future listeners, not just current onesThe four steps to instantly improve your show notes: lead with a hook, use keywords naturally, make them scannable, and add a call to actionA simple way to update your old notes to boost downloadsYour show notes are more than a recap—they’re a marketing tool. When you start treating them that way, you’ll get found more often and attract the right audience to your podcast.Pro tip: Go back and update a few of your old episodes with stronger notes and watch what happens to your download numbers.Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:Apply to work with us: https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/6521a4cc8fdeed003a859a44Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklist⁠Website: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/⁠YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction⁠My favorite podcast tool, Descript: https://www.descript.com/?lmref=KkInCQ Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com

If you’ve ever been fascinated by manifestation, personal development, or even the art of confident speaking, this episode is for you. I’m joined by my client, Jen Coffey, former QVC television host and now the voice behind The Phoenix Podcast.After more than a decade on live TV, Jen decided to create a new platform where she could share her true passions—helping people manifest their dreams and live with intention. Her podcast quickly grew into not only an inspiring show but also a coaching practice where she works directly with people ready to transform their lives.In this conversation, Jen and I dig into:How she went from selling on QVC to launching a podcast all about manifestationWhy Threads (yes, Threads!) played a key role in how we connected and started working togetherThe behind-the-scenes lessons from years of live TV that podcasters can use to present themselves with confidenceWhy solo episodes can be just as powerful—if not more—than guest interviewsHow vulnerability and storytelling build deeper connections with listenersJen’s best tips for showing up on camera and speaking with confidenceThe surprising ways podcasting has made her a better student of manifestationConnect with Jen:Podcast: https://www.jennifercoffey.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennifercoffeyConnect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:Apply to work with us: https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/6521a4cc8fdeed003a859a44Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklist⁠Website: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/⁠YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction⁠My favorite podcast tool, Descript: https://www.descript.com/?lmref=KkInCQ Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com

When it comes to podcasting, facts and strategies are great... but what really keeps listeners coming back is YOU. In this Espresso Shot episode of Podcast Café, I’m diving into why getting personal with your audience is the fastest way to build trust and loyalty, plus exactly how you can do it without oversharing.Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:Apply to work with us: https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/6521a4cc8fdeed003a859a44Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklist⁠Website: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/⁠YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction⁠My favorite podcast tool, Descript: https://www.descript.com/?lmref=KkInCQ Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com

If you love travel and you love wine, this episode is for you. I’m joined by my client Nick Elliott, host of Pour & Explore, a podcast all about wine, food, and travel. Nick is a certified sommelier, classically trained chef, and world traveler who believes wine should be fun and approachable—not intimidating or snobby.In this conversation, Nick shares how he blends his passions into a podcast that’s both educational and entertaining. We talk about his journey from hosting live webinars to podcasting, the creative ways he engages his listeners with guides and resources, and how he uses his podcast to grow The Wine Guy brand.You’ll hear:Why Nick created Pour & Explore and how he keeps the content freshHow he chooses guests and balances solo vs. interview episodesCreative ways to repurpose podcast content into lead magnetsWhy making wine and food approachable matters more than rulesFun behind-the-scenes stories from Nick’s travels and meals around the worldListen to Pour & Explore: https://www.thewineguy.vin/portfolioConnect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklist⁠Website: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/⁠YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction⁠My favorite podcast tool, Descript: https://www.descript.com/?lmref=KkInCQProduced by Espresso Podcast Production: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/

If your podcast doesn’t have a lead magnet, you’re missing out on one of the most powerful ways to grow not just your show, but your email list and business, too.In this Espresso Shot episode, I’m breaking down exactly what a lead magnet is, why it matters for podcasters, and how to create one your listeners can’t resist. Lead magnets turn casual listeners into loyal subscribers who are ready to buy, so this is a must-listen if you want your podcast to fuel your business growth.You’ll learn:What a lead magnet really is (and how it works for podcasters)Real examples of high-converting freebies you can createThe 4 simple steps to move listeners from your podcast to your email listHow to naturally promote your lead magnet in episodes and show notesConnect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:Apply to work with us:  ⁠⁠https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/6521a4cc8fdeed003a859a44⁠⁠Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklist⁠⁠⁠Website: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/⁠⁠⁠YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction⁠⁠⁠My favorite podcast tool, Descript: ⁠⁠https://www.descript.com/?lmref=KkInCQ⁠⁠Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/

After 24+ years in executive search and recruiting, Kim Frost decided to add something new to her business strategy—a podcast. In this episode I sit down with my client, Kim, founder of Frost Connections and host of Hire Power, to talk about why she launched a show after decades in business, what it’s doing for her brand, and the unique structure she follows to deliver value-packed, 10-minute episodes to busy leaders.Kim shares why she’s never been a podcast listener (until now!), how she uses her show to expand her reach beyond traditional networking, and the no-BS approach she brings to hiring, leadership, and client relationships. We also dig into her philosophy on bold outreach, building genuine connections, and why leaders need more than just “managers” on their teams.If you’ve ever wondered how podcasting can fit into a well-established business—or how to stand out in a competitive industry—Kim’s story will inspire you to think bigger, start sooner, and lead with authenticity.What you’ll hear in this episode:Why Kim started a podcast after 20+ years in businessHow Hire Power helps leaders improve their hiring and leadership skillsThe real difference between a manager and a leaderTips for building genuine business relationships (without hiding behind email and text)How nano-learning episodes create impact in under 10 minutesWhy authenticity matters more than ulterior motives in podcastingConnect with Kim:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/frostkim/Podcast: https://www.frostconnections.com/hire-power-kim-frost  Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklist⁠Website: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/⁠YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction⁠My favorite podcast tool, Descript: https://www.descript.com/?lmref=KkInCQProduced by Espresso Podcast Production: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/

Think your podcast episodes have to be long to be valuable? Think again.I’m breaking down nano learning—short, hyper-focused podcast episodes designed to give your audience one actionable takeaway in 10 minutes or less.You’ll learn:What nano learning is and why it works so well in today’s busy worldHow short episodes can help you stay consistent without burning outA 4-step framework for creating quick, high-value content your audience will loveWays to use nano learning to answer questions, share news, and give rapid-fire tipsIf you’ve ever felt like you don’t have time to create a full-length podcast episode—or worried your audience is too busy to listen—this episode will show you how to make a big impact in a small amount of time.Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:Apply to work with us: ⁠https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/6521a4cc8fdeed003a859a44⁠Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklist⁠⁠Website: ⁠⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/⁠⁠YouTube: ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction⁠⁠My favorite podcast tool, Descript: ⁠https://www.descript.com/?lmref=KkInCQ⁠Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: ⁠⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/

Your podcast doesn’t have to stay the same forever—and neither do you.In this episode of Podcast Café, Hayleigh sits down with Crystal Edwards, host of Gritty is the New Pretty, to talk about how your podcast can evolve alongside your life, your business, and your identity. From launching a podcast in the middle of a pandemic to hitting pause during major life transitions, Crystal shares what it means to lead with authenticity, pivot with purpose, and stay rooted in your mission—even when the strategy shifts.They dive into:How Krystle's podcast was born from a community project and a personal lossThe realities of podcasting while parenting, healing, and growingWhat happens when you stop editing out every “um” and embrace real conversationWhy podcasting is a long game, and how it becomes a vehicle for connection, not perfectionThe power of using your voice, even when it feels vulnerableWhether you’re just getting started or your podcast has been with you for years, this conversation is your reminder that it’s your show, so let it grow with you.Connect with Krystle:Website: www.gritcitywomen.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/gritcitywomenConnect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:Apply to work with us:  ⁠https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/6521a4cc8fdeed003a859a44⁠Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklist⁠⁠Website: ⁠⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/⁠⁠YouTube: ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction⁠⁠My favorite podcast tool, Descript: ⁠https://www.descript.com/?lmref=KkInCQ⁠Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: ⁠⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/

Your podcast isn’t a contract you signed in blood, it’s a creative tool that’s meant to grow with you.In this short + punchy Espresso Shot episode, I’m diving into what it really means to let your podcast evolve alongside your business. Whether your offers shift, your audience changes, or your voice becomes stronger, your podcast can (and should) move with you, not against you.I’m breaking down:Why you don’t need to start over every time your business pivotsHow I’ve shifted my podcast Employee to Boss over the yearWhat it looked like when a client transitioned her show from general mindset to business-specific contentHow to bring your audience along for the ride, so they feel invited, not confusedYour podcast should reflect who you are now, not who you were three years ago. Ready for a refresh? I’m always here to help you realign your show with your business goals. Reach out!Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:Apply to work with us:  https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/6521a4cc8fdeed003a859a44Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklist⁠Website: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/⁠YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction⁠My favorite podcast tool, Descript: https://www.descript.com/?lmref=KkInCQProduced by Espresso Podcast Production: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/

This episode is a little different... in the best way. A few weeks ago I threw a party to celebrate 5 years of my business (!!) and set up a mic for my friends, clients, and people I adore to leave me voice messages. What they shared? So sweet, so thoughtful, and honestly, exactly what I needed to hear. You’ll hear their messages, some of my own stories, and a whole lot of love. 💛Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:Apply to work with us: https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/6521a4cc8fdeed003a859a44Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklist⁠Website: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/⁠YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction⁠My favorite podcast tool, Descript: https://www.descript.com/?lmref=KkInCQ Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/

In this full-circle conversation, I sit down with my second-ever client, branding powerhouse Ati Grinspun, to talk about how she’s built a magnetic business—and how podcasting has played a major role in it. From her early days as a flare bartender to becoming a personal branding coach and speaker, Ati gets real about what it takes to grow a business from the ground up.We talk about how podcasting can amplify your personal brand, attract aligned clients, and help you stand out in a saturated space without relying on constant content creation or exhausting online strategies. This is an honest, powerful episode about growth, clarity, and showing up as your full self in your business.In this episode:How we first started working together (and the evolution since!)Why podcasting is key to Ati’s brand and client journeyCommon branding mistakes new podcasters makeThe importance of clarity before launching a showHow the Be You Brand Podcast supports her offers and builds trustBehind the scenes of the Be You Brand Live Conference in Las VegasThe mindset work behind scaling to $80K monthsConnect with Ati:Be You Brand Live in September: https://atigrinspun.com/beyoubrandliveevent/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ati.grinspun/ Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:Apply to work with us: https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/6521a4cc8fdeed003a859a44Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklist⁠Website: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/⁠YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction⁠My favorite podcast tool, Descript: https://www.descript.com/?lmref=KkInCQ Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/

A podcast can be the perfect way to grow your personal brand, but only if you’re starting at the right time. In this quick-hit Espresso Shot episode, I’m sharing what that timing actually looks like and how to know when you’re truly ready to launch.Spoiler: it’s not about having a massive audience, perfect branding, or 52 episode ideas. It’s about clarity—on who you're talking to, what you're saying, and how you're serving.We’ll dive into:Why podcasting is a powerful tool for personal brand growthThe key signs you’re actually ready to start a podcastWhat makes a podcast bingeable (and why that matters for sales)The 3 questions I ask every client before they launchHow a limited series podcast can save you time, build trust, and support your offersThe behind-the-scenes strategy behind my Espresso Series offer https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/espresso-seriesWhether you’re still dreaming of launching or you’re ready to finally hit “record,” this episode will help you decide what’s next—and why your voice deserves to be heard.Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:Apply to work with us: https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/6521a4cc8fdeed003a859a44Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklist⁠Website: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/⁠YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction⁠My favorite podcast tool, Descript: https://www.descript.com/?lmref=KkInCQ Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/

Today’s episode is a little different—because we’re celebrating a major milestone… Espresso Podcast Production turns 5 years old!What started as a college podcast project (shoutout Wrestling Winedown) turned into a full-time business that’s helped hundreds of creators launch, grow, and amplify their voices through podcasting. And today, I’m taking you behind the scenes of my journey—from being a shy student to a top 3% podcaster and founder.In this honest, unscripted solo episode, I’m reflecting on:How I accidentally started my businessThe evolution from VA to podcast strategistThe mindset and mentorship that made it possibleWhy community and connection are the realROIThe power of investing in yourselfWhy we need to celebrate our wins more oftenHow podcasting is one of the best networking tools🎂 Here’s to 5 years—and many more to come. Thanks for being a part of it.People & Coaches Mentioned:Azalee Maslow: https://www.instagram.com/azaleemaslowKeyera Patrick: https://www.instagram.com/keyerapatrick/Kate Perkovic: https://www.instagram.com/kateperkovic/Karina Baldwin: https://www.instagram.com/trueadventureco/Kelly Adams: https://www.instagram.com/kellyadamscoaching/Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:Apply to work with us: https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/6521a4cc8fdeed003a859a44Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklist⁠Website: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/⁠YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction⁠My favorite podcast tool, Descript: https://www.descript.com/?lmref=KkInCQ Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/