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Delaware Blogger Podcast

Delaware Blogger Podcast

By Antionette Blake

Weekly episodes of podcasting pointers that help you expand your exposure and broaden your brand by using your voice. I am an award-winning blogger, vlogger, author, professional speaker and CEO of A. Blake Enterprises, Social Media Marketing and Consulting. You can find and follow me on all my social media platforms at linktr.ee/ablakeenterprises

You can get blogging tips on my blog @ delblogger.com and see me on YouTube @ youtube.com/delawareblogger?sub_confirmation=1
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Thankful Thursday Thoughts #91

Delaware Blogger PodcastApr 05, 2018

00:00
03:32
Power of Podcasting Your Personal Brand

Power of Podcasting Your Personal Brand

"If people like you, they will listen to you, but if they trust you, they'll do business with you."  - Zig Ziglar

Power of Podcasting Your Personal Brand Branding used to be just for big businesses, it’s now also for your personal brand especially if you are an entrepreneur or even a solopreneur.

Personal brands are just as important when it comes to connecting with your target market audience and creating a podcast can reap huge benefits.

As more purchasing decisions are made online and from recommendations on social media, having a podcast will open up further opportunities for your business.

When a potential customer is thinking about buying your product, they are going to do their research. They will ask for referrals or search online or reach out for recommendations on social networks.

Therefore, if you are found on Facebook, that’s fine, but hearing you on a podcast

By investing in your personal brand via a podcast you are creating more opportunities to reach wider audiences which can lead to enhanced credibility, trust, and authenticity for your brand.

Your company’s products and services are more humanized when you make storytelling, entertainment, inspiration or motivational topics via a podcast, which shows the personal side of your company values.

Amplification from a podcast for your personal brand strengthens customer relationships by making you more human, more closely connected, and more personalized. - podcasting is very intimate.

Storytelling, writing and public speaking are just some of the elements that are practiced when devoting time to a personal brand.

Your podcast can then be used to lead better meetings, collaborate more directly with others.

There are many benefits, someone with a strong personal brand has more of a chance to be included in speaking engagements or included on industry panels and events, which is a great way to expose your brand to new audiences.

Through podcasting you are developing a personal brand and sharing yourself which will allow growth and expand your networks.

Small business owners can take advantage of this greater reach to grown the company, the more engaged the more devoted to the business missions for the long-term. Win-win!

Don’t Conform, Create - don’t hesitate, wait or procrastinate - get started.

Today’s episode is being sponsored by PodKnow 2021, Online Conference for Podcasters and Podcast Guests.  Online June, 26, 2021, 8:30 am to 6:00 pm EST, registration https://nycpodcastnetwork.com/podknow-2021  I will be presenting “Creating a Binge Listening Podcast” so make sure to register today!

7 Steps to starting a podcast - planning stages, next week will come back with the 7 steps of podcasting setting up your studio whether it’s at home in your closet of if you decide to rent time at Blake’s Booth Podcasting Studio located at 108 Patriot’s Drive, Suite A. in Middletown, DE  302-274-8060 or www.thehomellc.com/blakesbook

Out & About with Antionette podcast hosted by EC Podcast Media https://eliteconversations.com/outandabout.html

Today’s music is being brought to you by thePodcastHost.com & Alitu

Jun 19, 202120:16
5 Podcasting Pointers - Updated Eps. #258

5 Podcasting Pointers - Updated Eps. #258

This episode is an update to a previous show - 5 Podcasting Pointers

So whether or not you are just starting a podcast or are a seasoned pro - check out these 5 Podcasting Pointers; to hear ways in which to promote your podcast, and after listening, please feel free to leave a few of your own.

1) Find and Follow Your Audience - find your audience and then promote your podcast on the platform in which they hang out.  Younger audience are commonly found on Instagram and Snapchat, Boomers and Beyond are on LinkedIn and Facebook Use Hashtags - yes, even on Facebook. Hashtags help in organic searches and helps other find podcasts and podcast topics.

2) Use hashtags such as #podcast #podcasthost #podcastguest and of course, #podcastlife Use images - humans have the attention span less than that of a goldfish - approximately 7 seconds so make sure you have pretty pictures or images to stop people from strolling.

3) Turn audio into video - convert your audio into a video using animation apps.  Using tools such as AudioGram will transform audio into video with images.

5) Promote Old Episodes - Create a schedule to promote your podcasts and be consistent - never just one and done.  Use Buffer, Hootsuite, PromoRepublic to repurpose old episodes especially if the topic is evergreen.

Find and follow me on all my social platforms at https://linktr.ee/delblogger and sign up for AudioGrams using my affiliate link https://getaudiogram.com/register/f2bfa8

Jun 12, 202107:47
How Long Should A Podcast Episode Be? Eps. #257

How Long Should A Podcast Episode Be? Eps. #257

How Long Should A Podcast Episode Be?

This has been such a frequently asked question, that I decided to address it again in this episode of the Delaware Blogger Podcast.

Once you have decided to start a podcast; you’ve chosen a title, topic and your description and you may even have your equipment and are ready to get into the closets to start recording.

However, one of the biggest questions you may have before hitting the record button is, “how long should my podcast episode be?”  How long should I be talking….5 mins...15 mins...30 minutes or even 60 minutes?

Pre-COVID, when podcasting was becoming popular I was taught that it was best to record no more than 28-35 minutes which was a normal commute on a bus, train or in a car, however, now with most people working remotely that has changed...a normal commute is about 13 stairs!

Most people’s commute is from the bedroom to the living room so the attention span got longer which is a good thing because we had so much more time on our hands with nothing to do, vegging out on Netflix became popular so much so that “Netflix and Chill” became a popular phrase.

I will be presenting “Creating a Binge Listening Podcast” at the PodKnow2021 Online Podcasting Conference on June 24th, here is the link if you need tickets https://nycpodcastnetwork.com/conference-speaker/antionette-blake/?1615675517

Just like blogging, if you can say it in 50 words, why write 500 words?

Listen to the entire episode to determine how long your show will be - but remember, you have to “do you boo boo!”

Music provided by the PodcastHost.com & Alitu and the show is sponsored by Helping One More Entrepreneur - Blake’s Booth Podcasting Studio in Middletown, DE  www.thehomellc.com/blakesbooth

Share this show with your family, friends and followers and make sure to find and follow me on all my social media platforms at https://linktr.ee/delblogger

Join us on Clubhouse every Sunday at 3 PM - Podcasting Your Purpose Room

Jun 05, 202114:13
"Podcasting Your Purpose" is on Clubhouse Eps. #256

"Podcasting Your Purpose" is on Clubhouse Eps. #256

Yes...Yes...Yes!  Clubhouse is now available to Android users and although I previously signed up using my iPad, I am now happy that I can access the app via my Smartphone.  In case you wish to follow me, you know I am @delawareblogger

I have created a room, "Podcasting Your Purpose" and last Sunday was the launch, however, it was only me and 2 others who joined in, we shared a few social media promotional tips.  Hopefully, there will be others joining this Sunday as we continue the discussion on how to use social media to promote your podcast.

So mark you calendar for 3 PM EST every Sunday and join us!

Find and follow me on all my other social media platforms as well https://linktr.ee/delblogger

May 15, 202106:06
Podcast Promotion via Social Media at Podfest Masterclass 2021 - Eps. #255

Podcast Promotion via Social Media at Podfest Masterclass 2021 - Eps. #255

On Tuesday, May 4th, I presented at PodFest 2021 Masterclass Online Summit, Social Media Growth 101 - Podcast Promotion via Social Media

Whether or not you are a newbie or a veteran podcaster, promotion is by far the biggest pain point for most hosts.  With over 60 social media platforms to choose from there’s no doubt that your ideal audience is out there, ready to engage with you and your content.  But how do you promote on social media effectively? The first step is understanding where your audience hangs out and then be there consistently with good content to actively grow that audience.

The number don’t lie!

  • Facebook has 2.8 billion monthly active users
  • Instagram has 1 billion monthly active users
  • Twitter has 353 million monthly active users
  • LinkedIn has 310 million monthly active users

However, not all social media platforms are created equal! While you may want to have a presence on all of the main channels (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube), it’s best to start slow. You can always expand in the future.  Focus on who your ideal listener may be, as well as the subject matter covered in your show – where do those types of people congregate online? Do they engage with Facebook groups? Are they on Twitter? Are they on Instagram? YouTube?

Use audience data and analytics to pick the platform that best matches your listener and spend your initial efforts where you can make the largest impact on your target audience and here are a few quick tips:

  • Set up a business webpage or website - Podpage or Wordpress
  • Create one link to make it easier to share
  • Create videos and add captions to catch and keep attention
  • Send weekly emails or monthly newsletters - preferably Sunday mornings at 7 AM - early riser/reader
  • Use audio grams/headliners/audiobursts for teasers
  • Always create a CTA

For more podcasting pointers, head over to my blog, DelBlogger or YouTube Channel and starting this Saturday at 9 AM EST at the Podcasting Your Purpose Room on Clubhouse.

Find and follow me on all my social media platforms at https://linktr.ee/delblogger


May 08, 202118:26
How to Start a Podcast Without Spending a Fortune Eps. #254

How to Start a Podcast Without Spending a Fortune Eps. #254

May 01, 202119:18
Power of a Podcast - Eps. #253
Apr 24, 202116:26
Designing Podcast Cover Art - Eps. #252

Designing Podcast Cover Art - Eps. #252

Let’s face it, first impressions are lasting impressions and your podcast cover art is the first thing potential new listeners see when they come across your show.

First impressions are important so you want to have a simple, yet eye-catching design that works as well at the size of a postage stamp as well as on a large desktop screen.

Also, please note that you need cover art in order to submit your podcast to the major directories and there’s no way around that.

Think of your cover art as your favorite album cover and to those of us who remember when we purchased an album from the record shop sometimes it was just for the cover so that we can hang it on the walls, but I digress and I am also showing my age!

However, no matter what topic or niche of your podcast, there are many others, literally millions of other shows to compete against, so you want your art to be unique and draw attention immediately - we have the attention span that is less of a goldfish!

So when people are scrolling through podcasts they are seeing different colors, shapes and fonts and you want to make yours different so it catches their attention making them want to stop, click and listen!

Listen to today's episode on things to consider when creating podcast cover art then head over to the blog or website http://www.thehomellc.com/blakesbooth/ to check out the new podcasting studio on Delaware and send an email to me at info@ablakeenterprises.com to schedule a Complimentary Discovery Call to get started on the 5-Week Podcasting Coaching Sessions.

Find and follow me at https://linktr.ee/delblogger

Today's episode of the Delaware Blogger Podcast is sponsored by Ignite Leadership 360

Apr 17, 202117:50
Podcasting a Marketing Tools for Your Business - Eps. #251

Podcasting a Marketing Tools for Your Business - Eps. #251

Podcasting a Marketing Tool For Your Business

When you have decided to start a podcast for your business, remember, it should be an extension of your brand, not a replacement of your brand.

Concept/Topic

When starting a podcast for your business you should always start with a concept, topic or niche.  What is your podcast going to be about?  Will it be about the product and services that you offer or will it be a topic that is related to your offerings for your target market audience and/or help to solve their pain points.

Allow your creativity and personality to shine through.  Make sure if you have guests that they too are good for your business brand - remember, “your brand is your bond and your bond is your brand!”

Tone of the Show

What is the tone of your show, will it be professional and serious or will it be light hearted and fun.  Whichever tone it takes, make sure that it presents your business in a positive light - “shine online” and the guests you choose should also fit the tone of your show.

Focus on Content

Your podcast should provide to your listeners content that is of value and you shouldn’t use your show as an advertisement.  The podcast is about your audience not your ego so use it to improve your relationship with your clients, customers and listeners.

Motivation

What is going to motivate you to start a podcast?  Yes, it can be about making money, but that should not be the main reason to start.  You want to grow your audience, drive traffic to your blog, website or brick and mortar store.  You want people to know, like and trust you so that you can increase your bottom line.

Listen to the entire episode to get the summary of the 5 reasons to start a podcast for your business and how to schedule your Complimentary Discovery Call to get started.

Find and follow me at https://linktre.ee/delblogger

Apr 10, 202117:42
In Studio with the Delaware Blogger - Special Episode
Apr 08, 202111:52
Tips on Choosing a Podcast Name - Eps. #250

Tips on Choosing a Podcast Name - Eps. #250

Hello and welcome to episode #250 of the Delaware Blogger Podcast 


I am super excited - over the top excited for the launch of Blake’s Booth Podcasting Studio coming to H.O.M.E launching on April 8th.

In addition to the Inaugural Event on the 8th at 10:00 am, there will be a 2nd event in the evening from 5:30-8:30 pm on the 15th of April.

If you are local, make sure to register at www.helpingentrepreneur.com/blakesbooth as for the fee of $47 you not only have an opportunity to check out the new studio, but listen to a podcasting presentation, with free printables, workbook, and food, sponsored by Ignite Leadership 360.

So if you have been thinking about starting a podcast, this is going to be a great opportunity for you to get information that will help to get started and oh there will be goodies and giveaways throughout the event!

Make sure to register at https://www.helpingentrepreneur.com/blakesbooth

So on today's episode I revisit Tips on Choosing a Podcast Name and I talk about these few:

  • Check If Names Are Already Taken
  • Make it Memorable - Say It Out Loud
  • Podcast Purpose
  • KISS - Short & Sweet
  • Think About Tone of Show
  • Keyword Searchable

There is also a Free checklist: https://www.dropbox.com/s/pb18cwuldhwa6nt/Tips%20to%20Choosing%20a%20Podcast%20Name_pdf%20%281%29.pdf?dl=0


Please leave a comment or review then find and follow me using the Linktree id DelBlogger = https://linktr.ee/delblogger

Apr 03, 202116:27
Would You Pay To Listen to a Podcast? Eps. #249

Would You Pay To Listen to a Podcast? Eps. #249

One of the biggest challenges a podcast host has is getting more ears to their show, wanting to get a lot of downloads so that it not only feeds their egos, but may also feed their pockets.

However, listeners are not too keen on paying for a podcast or even buying a cup of coffee or donating to your show.  As there are over 1 million published podcast shows, listeners feel that they should be free like public radio.

Do you agree?

That is what we will be discussing today on the Delaware Blogger Podcast

Music/Transition provided by thePodcastHost.com & Alitu: The Podcast Maker

According to a recent article in Variety, “MOST PODCAST LISTENERS STILL LUKEWARM ON PAYING FOR PODCASTS, DATA SUGGESTS.  There certainly has been a subscription revenue boom in the media space in recent years, but it may not have benefited podcasts as much as other forms of media."

Listen to the entire episode of today's episode #249 of the Delaware Blogger Podcast, follow and share with a friend then leave a comment or review as to whether or not you would pay to listen to a podcast.

Find and follow me on my other social platforms at https://linktr.ee/delblogger


Mar 27, 202112:20
Personality of a Podcast

Personality of a Podcast

Hello, and welcome to another episode of the Delaware Blogger Podcast  here on Anchor FM.  It has definitely been a tremendous week on and off the mic, and I want to give a special shout out to Ann Hlabangana-Clay, a mentee and fellow podcast host of “Coaching You Through All Things Education” as well as to the owners of HOME, Helping One More Entrepreneur who have been very supportive of me and is housing Blake’s Booth Podcasting Studio coming to Middletown on April 8th.

My podcast music was provided by The Podcast Host and Alitu @thepodcasthost.com/freemusic

Today, I want to touch on a few tips on how to use your words to change the world with your podcast, as I have always stated in my Podcasting Your Purpose presentations and coaching sessions, that you can literally change someone’s life with your voice.

  • H2H engagement and make it conversational; 1 to 1
  • Be genuine in your emotions - use the mirror trick if necessary because what you see on the outside will shine from the inside
  • Powerful Yet Passionate
  • Climate Conditions - where are you, how are you feeling?
  • Visualization - speak with enthusiasm
  • Meaningful stories on a particular subject matter
  • Who / Where / What - give details if necessary - CTA
  • Relevant / Authentic / Genuine - not a condescending, know it all attitude
  • TMI - no information overload - do not pack a lot of data - re-purpose or create a series
  • Touches emotionally
  • Guidance - helping hand
  • Clarity - speak with a clear voice and eliminate any distracting background noise

Key Takeaways:

  • Be engaged in the beginning with a catchy episode title and be straight to the point about your topic.
  • Be conversational with your personality not someone else's voice.
  • Be consistent in rituals including the same greeting which should be  short and simple and solidifies the brand - sense of comfort.
  • Show should include a clear beginning/intro, topic of interest and promise of value, CTA and outro

Podcasting is still a marketing tool, not only for your business but for your brand as well, so these are just a few things that can turn your podcasting journey into one that is not only rewarding to yourself, but to others as well.

As I stated in last week’s show, “Creating a Binge Listening Podcast” this can be the catalyst that makes someone want to binge listen to all of your episodes.

So if there is anything that you heard in this episode that you wish to share or has helped you, please feel free to do so and leave a review so that others can get this information as well.

Find and follow me at https://linktr.ee/delblogger


Mar 20, 202112:47
COMING SOON - Blake's Booth Podcasting Studio

COMING SOON - Blake's Booth Podcasting Studio

Coming Soon to Middletown, DE - "Blake's Booth Podcasting Studio"

Mark your calendar to join us at the launch of "Blake's Booth Podcasting Studio" at H.O.M.E. - Helping One More Entrepreneur located at 108 Patriot Drive, Suite A., Middletown, DE 19709 

www.thehomellc.com

The podcasting studio is a perfect place for you to record your own show or to learn how to begin a new podcast. Various packages are available to fit all budgets from 2-hr training sessions to full day sessions for individuals and groups (COVID Compliant) all starting this Spring.

Stay tuned for more details about the Grand Opening which will include food, fun, and some great giveaways!


Mar 18, 202106:40
Creating a Binge Listening Podcast

Creating a Binge Listening Podcast

Creating a Binge Listening Podcast - Episode # 247

Podcast creation is becoming very popular and it’s HOT - but so is listening to podcasts too!  People are boasting about and promoting on their social media platforms about how they are bingeing on podcasts.  Podcasting bingeing is actually better than "Chillaxin with Netflix", sitting on a sofa with ice cream and consuming content when they have time.

Unlike sitting and bingeing on Netflix, people can listen to podcasts on the go...listening anywhere...at any time and to the podcast episodes that they want.

“Bingeing” on entertainment became popular in 2007 when both Netflix and DVRs were introduced which allowed television viewers to spend entire weekends catching up and watching full seasons of shows, instead of waiting one week or more in between new episodes. That same method of consuming entertainment is now becoming a natural way in which to listen to podcasts too!

The pandemic also sped up the popularity to consuming more digital programming literally overnight. Everywhere in the world people are spending more time using digital and artificial devices.

But what makes a podcast binge worthy, that’s what I talked about in this episode of the Delaware Blogger podcast and basically there are only 3 elements and they are:

  • Subject Matter
  • StoryTelling Skills
  • Length and Frequency

Podcasts are quickly becoming the number one platform for telling and sharing interesting stories with the world. Got a story to share? Why not consider starting a podcast to get your message out there?

Thank you for listening to today’s episode of the Delaware Blogger Podcast, “Creating a Binge Listening Podcast” and I hope that you got something out of today’s show, if you did, please leave a comment, review and subscribe so that you can share with your family, friends, followers, bae or boo too!

You can find and follow me on all my social media platforms at https://linktr.ee/delblogger

Mar 13, 202114:33
HEY HEY HEY - YOU NEED A CTA!

HEY HEY HEY - YOU NEED A CTA!

Hey You Need a CTA!  Yes you do!

CTA's are vital, they tell listeners what to do next or how to connect to you.

A call-to-action, or CTA, is a marketing term referring to a piece of content, such as an image, a button or a line of text, intended to prompt users to perform a specific action.

Why is a CTA important?

Strategic calls-to-action (CTAs) can help you guide your visitors through the buying journey and directly impact your conversion rates. A really effective CTA will draw visitors’ attention, piquing their interest and guide them to the next step which should be the signup process -- email addresses are gol!

Conversion is simply getting someone to respond to some kind of a call to action. A successful CTA results in a conversion. Most of the time, it involves a click or tap on a button.

Human's minds are so accustomed to being told what to do or given instructions that we naturally expect it especially in the online world; they are oftentimes looking for a call-to-action whether is a button or just a command.   That, however, doesn’t mean they’re prepared to follow your instruction and convert and oftentimes it takes several times before they even take action so after the break I will give you some samples of CTAs that you can use and can be mastered if you follow the proven techniques.

A CTA is typically an instruction or directive using action verbs like “buy”, “sign up”, “register”, “follow”, etc. and they lead the consumer to the next step of your sales funnel or process.

Calls to action are most commonly used in sales and marketing to solicit the desired action from leads and customers. For example, a CTA can be used to grow your email list (“Sign up to our newsletter”), promote a special offer (“Claim your voucher code”) or a piece of content (“Download our new eBook”).

Listen to this episode and If any of this information that I covered today has been of interest to you please leave a comment or review and if you know someone that could use this information, please share it - remember, sharing is caring, so share with your family, friends, bae and boo too!

You can find and follow me on all my social media platforms using the linktree id / delblogger and you can send an email to info@ablakeenterprises.com to receive a FREE copy of the 7-Step Podcasting Checklist.

New episodes of the Delaware Blogger Podcast is published every Saturday at 10 AM and you can tune in to Tech Talk Tuesday’s on YouTube and on Wednesdays at 1 PM EST you can hear a new episode of the “Blog Your Way to a Business Profit” on iHeart Radio, SoundCloud or any other podcasting platform that you are subscribed to.

Enjoy the rest of the day and remember to stay smart, stay safe and stay social as I will see you in cyberspace - see ya, it’s the DE Divah aka The Delaware Blogger, have a beautifully blessed day!

Mar 06, 202115:27
Pitching Your Podcast for Profit Part 2
Feb 27, 202114:20
Pitching Your Podcast for Profit

Pitching Your Podcast for Profit

Congratulations, you haven’t faded away after the 7th episode of your podcast show which is more commonly known as “podfade”! You are now you are ready for the big time – bring on those sponsors because you are ready to Pitch Your Podcast for Profit!

Sponsorships are a great way to monetize your podcast by getting paid to promote a product, brand or service.

Statistically speaking, nearly two-thirds of podcast listeners act based on ads they heard, whether they make a purchase or simply search for information based on the recommendation.

So, when the time comes and you are ready to seek out sponsors for your podcast shows, there are a just a few steps that you need to take.

The first step should always be to consider your niche and your audience. The most important part of sponsorship is finding sponsors that fit your niche or topic and/or solve a pain point for your listeners.

On today's episode of the Delaware Blogger Podcast I talked about "Who to Pitch To" "How to Pitch" and the "5 Steps to Find a Podcast Sponsor".

Take a listen, then subscribe and share with your followers.  Find and follow me on all my social platforms at https://linktr.ee/delblogger

Feb 20, 202118:10
Podcast Topic Tips

Podcast Topic Tips

Podcast Topic Tips

Have you started your podcast show or are you still trying to think of a topic to talk about?

Well if choosing a topic is the one thing that is holding you back then today's episode of the Delaware Blogger Podcast; Episode #242, is for you.  I am giving you 10 podcast topics tips that may help you determine what you want to talk about.

Listen to the suggestions of these 10 Podcast Topics

  1. Twilight Zone Trivia or any television show series
  2. Numerology/Astrology/Horoscopes
  3. Books of the Bible/Koran/Torah
  4. Home/Health/Happiness
  5. TV Trivia/Book Club
  6. Through the Decades
  7. Meals by Men
  8. How To's/DIYs/Hacks
  9. Share What You Care
  10. Helping Others Through Life's Struggles

Podcasting is a very powerful medium one that you can use to help others to literally change their lives.  Is there something that you can share based upon your previous experiences; whether you are an educator or entertainer or expert in your field; you can help others with just using your voice.

Don’t use the excuse that there's not enough time … you need to squeeze out a little time to not only brand yourself but to help others and I hope that these tips will help to get your brain juices flowing.

If you would like a copy of the 7 Step Podcast Checklist please send an email to info@ablakeenterprises.com where you can also register for a 15-minute Complimentary Discovery Call or sign up for the 4-hour Podcasting Your Purpose Coaching Sessions.

Find and follow me on all my social media platforms at https://linktr.ee/delblogger

To purchase a ticket to the Empowered Women...Empower Women Virtual Clinic, head over to the website www.tiaranicoleriley.com/events

Feb 13, 202118:48
Podcasting Vocal Pointers

Podcasting Vocal Pointers

Today on the Delaware Blogger Podcast, I am sharing a few tips that I read when it comes to your vocals or voice...podcast vocal pointers

Grant it, we don’t all have the “perfect” radio or podcasting voice and many of us will admit to “hating the sound of our voice” but you have to remember, that to some your voice may be perfect and to others not so much.  As a matter of fact I was watching an episode of the Odd Couple and Felix was trying to help Mirna, Oscar’s secretary change her nasely voice - what he didn’t realize, her boyfriend loved her voice and everyone in her family sounded the same way - so where you might feel that you have a nasally voice - someone else may love it!

Now unless you are a professional DJ or voiceover artist, you don’t need to enunciate everything perfectly you want to be conversational and casual more like a friend unless your podcast is a narrated documentary then that’s a different story and I won’t be talking about that on today’s show.

When you are speaking try to do so as clearly as possible especially if you have a thick accent.

1. Experiment  – record, listen, modify

2. Don’t Fake the Funk - communicate emotions and feelings

3. Stand while you are recording

4. Practice breathing

5. Review the script

6. Slow down and take a pause


Listen to the entire episode and if you have any questions, please leave a comment and or a review of today's show.  You can find and follow me on all my social media platforms at https://linktr.ee/delblogger

Sign up for a 15-min complimentary Discovery Call or enroll in the Podcasting Your Purpose Coaching sessions.  You can also inquire about sponsorships and ads by sending an email to info@ablakeenterprises.com

Feb 06, 202117:04
SEO - Are You Drinking the Juice?

SEO - Are You Drinking the Juice?

Okay, so you have been doing your podcast show for a minute now...let’s say a few months and it’s an amazing show with great content and fantastic audio quality, but you’re still not getting the download numbers or listener numbers that you want.

Are you drinking the juice?  No, not the apple juice, lemonade, water or wine sitting in a glass next to you when you need to wet your whistle...I am talking about Google Juice - are you drinking the juice?

This is by far the easiest way to ensure that your content gets a much wider and broader audience. Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is the bridge between your podcast content and your audience’s ears.

What is Search Engine Optimization (SEO)?

Search Engine Optimization helps the search engines get your content to listeners, whether they are using Google, Bing, Yahoo or Yelp. It increases the quality and quantity of listeners through organic search engine results. Organic as it FREE - not talking about paid ads here.  SEO helps attract visitors who are truly interested in the content that your podcast provides and it increases the traffic to them that are specifically looking for your content.

On today's episode of the Delaware Blogger Podcast I am sharing 4 ways in which to improve your SEO

Now with full disclosure, these are just 4 ways in which to improve your SEO and they are not all inclusive, but they definitely are great ways to start so if you haven’t done anything to increase the listening audience or download numbers then they will help.  Today’s episode is being sponsored by H.O.M.E. - Helping One More Entrepreneur in Middletown, DE www.thehomellc.com
  1. Research Keywords for your Episode
  2. Create a blog or page for each episode
  3. Be Consistent with content on your blog/website
  4. Tempting Titles

Thank you for listening to today’s episode of the Delaware Blogger Podcast and if you would like to be a sponsor please send an email to info@ablakeenterprises.com for more information and don’t forget to subscribe to my YouTube Channel for more podcasting pointers and blogging tips - delawareblogger is my userid.

Please leave a review or a message find and follow me at https://linktr.ee/delblogger

Jan 30, 202116:05
Does Your Podcast Need a Blog or a Website - Eps. #240

Does Your Podcast Need a Blog or a Website - Eps. #240

If you've ever considered creating a blog or website for your podcast, I'll tell you that it's a good idea. While it's not 100% necessary, having a website can do a lot for you as far as promoting and finding your podcast through the search engines - or SEO.

I’ve been blogging since 2012 and yes, it takes time to build and grow an audience and increase readership and no it’s not easy, but you can do it and if you are looking for a place to begin, start by signing up with Podpage and please feel free to use my referral link : https://www.podpage.com/?via=antionette

The purpose of a blog or website is to house all your episodes in one location. Most podcasters post their shows on various social media platforms which is fine, but it’s much easier for your listeners to go to one site and you can also track your analytics from the one site as well.

Find the right Platform

If you want to build a blog or website from scratch, then I suggest GoDaddy because there are plenty of different templates so you can choose the look you want.

I can teach you how to start a blog as part of my offerings for $299 or you can wait and enroll in my online Build a Blog course which is coming soon.

Podcast Posts

Use your show notes to create short blog posts about each episode. The content should include specific keywords for search engine optimization (SEO).

SEO is the way in which search engines rank certain websites. If you want your show's website to show up on the first page of Google, consider adding high ranking keywords to your blog posts. If you need more assistance in researching keywords, try using Google's keyword planner.

In addition to the show notes from your podcast episodes you should also include other key elements such as:

  • About The Host(s): Let your audience get t know you and the others if there are more than one
  • What to Expect: Why you started the show and what your audience can expect from it
  • Events: Showcase when you’re hosting  an event
  • CTA: What do you want them to do or where to go after reading the post

Post Promotion

The best part of having a blog or website is in promoting it via the various channels. Especially if your goal is to have listeners find your episodes all in one site, you need to make sure that you're directing them to that site.

Make sure you add your URL to your social media bios or create a Linktree id which makes it easier to find. Your end of show CTA should let your listeners know where they can find you and ask them to leave comments on your posts because comments and reviews can also boost your SEO rankings.

Do you have a blog or website for your podcast?

Jan 23, 202117:55
Podcasting for Your Business or Brand Tips #1 - Eps. #239
Jan 16, 202115:42
New Year New You Podcast Topic Tips Eps. #238

New Year New You Podcast Topic Tips Eps. #238

Happy New Year!!!  Are you ready to start a podcast?  If so, today's show, "New Year New You Podcast Topic Tips" is for you.  In this episode #238 of the Delaware Blogger Podcast, I give you some tips on choosing a topic for your show.

Go for the Goal

You need to be clear on why you want to make a Podcast. What is the goal of your podcast, Think about whether you need a Podcast for your main life (brand) or business objectives.   Health, fitness, family, finances, retirement, education, college, vocational training, new business start up…and you need to know the pain points of your target market audience.

Caring is Sharing

Choose an idea for a podcast that you are genuinely interested or passionate about.  You don’t need to be an expert in this field right now, but you need to be interested enough to spend the next few years learning more about a topic and creating content on this topic. So choose wisely.  Passion will keep you motivated in moments of a slowdown.

Note: There are more than 1 million Podcasts, but over 650 million blogs. There may be less competition in podcasting, but you must consistently create high-quality content, otherwise you won’t get noticed and if you are not posting new content regularly, you will lose your relevance.

Future Monetization for Your Podcast

With the rising popularity of podcasts there is an opportunity to make money online. If you are planning to work hard on your podcasts, so think about a monetization strategy in advance which includes: Affiliate marketing / Patreon / Selling your product

What Problem Will Your Podcast Solve?

You must know your audience well. Are they male or female? What do they do? Are they college students, working professionals, or senior citizens? Are they single moms, bloggers, or entrepreneurs? Know the demographics of podcast listeners.  Knowing this will help you choose a topic for a podcast that will talk about something that is a specific pain-point solution for people. Use your podcast to give answers to your audience’s questions.

Select a Niche and a Format for Your Podcast

Even if you are creating podcasts as a hobby or a business,  it is not advisable to talk about too many different types of topics, for example, don’t talk about weight loss in one episode and then politics in the next.  Try to have a theme or be  specific with your genre or issues so that your audience is likely to come back for more. If you want to make Podcasts to spread awareness, choose a theme instead of working on a bunch of random topics every week.

Along with a niche, you should also choose a format. A Podcast is an audio media where you can experiment with several formats; it can be scripted with a solo host or an interview between two individuals, or even a free-flowing conversation within a small group of people.

Include Keywords for SEO

Your podcast will rank higher in search if the topics include keywords that users commonly search. Search Engine Optimization Strategies so that people find your podcast through search engines like Google. There are many tools where you can find highly searched keywords on your subject and use it in your topic. Try to have the main keyword for your podcast episode in the title or description.

Are you ready to start your show?  Send an email to me at ablakeenterprises.com to schedule a 15-minute complimentary discovery call.  Find and follow me at https://linktr.ee/delblogger


Jan 09, 202115:28
Tips on Naming Your Podcast #237

Tips on Naming Your Podcast #237

Tips on naming your podcast - Season #5 - Episode #237

1. What is the tone of your show
If you are not creating a podcast as an extension of your brand, business or blog, you will need to think about the tone of the show.

For example, will it be professional, personal, funny, educating, enlightening, inspirational, motivational?

Whatever it is, choose a podcast name that reflects the tone of the show.   If it’s going to be funny or humorous, then try incorporating something witty - write down words that are associated with the mood.

Try using relatedwords.org to search for words that match the feel of your podcast!

2. Make your name short and sweet!

Good podcast names are always short, catchy, and easy to remember.   No matter how you choose to name a podcast, you want to make it easy for your target audience to find you.

A good rule of thumb here is to cap it at 3-4 syllables tops! Anything longer than that may make it difficult for your audience to remember -  a shorter name is better in general.

3. Research your competition

Check out the names of other podcasts in the same niche, it is a great way to gauge podcast names from others in the industry. The goal is to quickly have listeners identify your niche within the first couple of seconds.

4. Make sure your name isn’t already taken

Sounds like a no brainer, right?  Well you never know, make sure to do a Google Search and this also includes profile and business pages on other social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, etc.

You don’t want to make the mistake of registering an available domain - but then realizing later on that someone else has already used the same one on social media!

It takes only a few minutes to go through each platform to see if your podcast’s name or a variation of it has already been taken by other people.

You also want to make sure that the name you are choosing is not trademarked, head over to USPTO.gov and do a search to make sure that your name isn’t infringing on any intellectual property!

So setting the right tone of your podcast show with the name and logo is important, especially if you are planning on growing your show in 2021!

For a free copy of the Podcast 7-Step Checklist, click the link or send an email to info@ablakeenterprises.com find and follow me on all my social media platforms at https://linktr.ee/delblogger

Jan 02, 202112:41
How to Start a Podcast - Esp. #236

How to Start a Podcast - Esp. #236

As we close out 2020, I encourage you to start a podcast in the coming new year and on today's episode of the Delaware Blogger Podcast, I list out the various steps in which to begin.

However, if you would prefer to schedule a 30-Minute Complimentary Discovery Call I invite you to send an email to info@ablakeenterprises.com where you can also request a copy of the How to Start a Podcast Checklist which is what I presented on today's show.

Find and follow me on all my social media platforms at https://linktr.ee/delblogger

You have a voice, a mission and a vision and you can literally change someone's life with a podcast so why not create one today!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Dec 19, 202018:10
7 Step Podcast Checklist - Episode #235

7 Step Podcast Checklist - Episode #235

On today's episode of the Delaware Blogger Podcast I am giving you the 7 Steps to starting a podcast which includes:

  1. Planning
  2. Setting Up
  3. Recording
  4. Editing
  5. RSS Feed/Hosting
  6. Launching
  7. Promotion

This episode of the Delaware Blogger Podcast is being sponsored by H.O.M.E. - Helping One More Entrepreneur which will be housing the "Blake's Booth" podcasting studio coming in 2021!

Make sure to take advantage of the Podcasting Your Purpose Coaching Session which is only $159, for a limited time and valid only until midnight 12/31/2020 when the price increases on 1/1/2021!

Download a copy of the 7 Step Podcast Checklist then make sure to share this podcast episode with a friend.  Find and follow me on all my social media platforms @ https://linktr.ee/delblogger


Dec 12, 202023:22
Podcasting Through Your Pain Eps. #234

Podcasting Through Your Pain Eps. #234

'Tis the season...the one that is supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year, but for many of us, it’s not - it’s just that plain and simple - it’s the most dreaded time of the year.

It begins with Halloween - the dark and spooky holiday that actually sets the tone for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa then New Years, especially if you are suffering mental or physical disorders.

Now, before I begin, let me make this disclaimer, I am not nor have I ever been a member of the medical community therefore, nothing I say today is recommended to go against your personal physician's recommendations and or prescribed medications.

I do know that as a blogger, someone who loves to write and a podcaster, someone who loves to talk, both of these activities have helped me navigate my pain - especially as a podcaster.

As a podcast host, one who has interviewed others, it afforded me an opportunity to connect with new people, locally as well as across the pond.  As a podcast guest, it has given me a chance to share with others and both of these opportunities has helped to take the focus off my problems both mentally and physically especially as a Type 2 Diabetic.

Not that being a diabetic is a death sentence, because it is not, however, it has altered my life a bit and it can be frustrating to say the least, however, there are bigger concerns especially during this time, with the loss of loved ones whether it was this year, 11 years ago with the death of my grandmother or 28 years ago, when I lost my sister - this is the time of year that you may begin to think more about the missing family member(s).

So if you too, are thinking of a loved one or loved ones and want to connect with others who may be feeling the same way, perhaps starting a podcast on grief and relief might be a great way to grieve and relive some of those emotions.  I wrote a blog post years ago, “The Gift of Grief”, which I reshare every year and no matter what, it is the most commented on post in December because so many people can relate, and it’s not just December, because I bet if I reposted it in June or October, it would probably get a similar response.

With a podcast you can connect with others who may be feeling the same way, even though their grief and relationship with their loved ones may be different than yours being able to connect with others may help during this time.

Since we still can’t connect with one another face to face like we did pre-COVID, this is a great alternative.  Starting a blog or a podcast that gives others a platform in which to share and care is a great way to help others and a gift meant to be shared.

If you are ready to start a podcast, then send an email to me at info@ablakeenterprises.com to schedule your 30-Minute Complimentary Discovery Call or order a copy of the “Podcasting Your Purpose” Resource Guide on Amazon to get started today!

Dec 05, 202017:55
Self Care for Podcasters - Eps. #233

Self Care for Podcasters - Eps. #233

“Self Care for Podcasters - Eps. #233 - “Self-Care is Not Selfish”

November 4th was NATIONAL STRESS AWARENESS DAY and although self care has become quite the buzzword unfortunately, many of us have not done a good job in taking care of ourselves in the way we should.

In today’s world filled with anger, anxiety and angst as well as the remote working, remote education and the COVID19 pandemic many of us are neglecting our self care which could be negatively impacting our health and well-being - cutting our lives short.

Yes, our lives are stressful; we have jobs to do, responsibilities to fulfill, and people who depend on us, and now more than ever, we’re facing uncertainties that put us under strain, and as podcasters, there’s also the added pressure to continually create valuable content, to put out high-quality episodes, promote and market your show, and connect with your audience. It can be a lot!

Today’s episode of Podcasting Your Purpose, I am sharing a few self-care tips that will hopefully help you and (your podcast) feel great and help you to function at your best level, so you can feel good both mentally and physically.

When you feel good, you’ll share good energy, and you and your podcast will benefit from it!

In this episode of the Delaware Blogger Podcast, I give you 6 self care tips to keep your mind, body and soul healthy and happy.

To learn more about me check out my social media platforms at https://linktr.ee/delblogger

Nov 21, 202020:08
Storytelling Sells a Podcast - Eps. #232

Storytelling Sells a Podcast - Eps. #232

How many of you remember growing up listening to your parents, grandparents, siblings, aunties, uncles or even teachers read you stories?

I remember having a reading circle in my classroom when I taught 3rd grade and it was the best part of the day.  Having all the kids sit in a circle while I read to them some would lay back and close their eyes while I read - they were probably imaging the scenes and characters in the book not aware that I was showing the pictures after each paragraph.

I loved reading to my sons when they were young, making the voices of the Disney Characters like Mickey Mouse or Pluto, this too was the best time of the day.

Why do you think LeVar Burton’s Reading Rainbow was so popular?

Most people love listening to stories and that is why storytelling sells a podcast.

You have to be relatable to your listeners, you have to offer them something - education, entertainment, enlightenment, inspiration, motivation - something, but more importantly, you have to tell the story in order to sell them to come back for more.

Now, not everyone is a good storyteller, nor is everyone a good podcaster, but if you are good at telling stories, not LIES, then you probably are a good podcaster.

Listen to today's episode for ways in which to tell a good podcasting story to increase your audience and to broaden your brand and expand your exposure online.

Send an email to info@ablakeenterprises.com to schedule a 30-Minute Complimentary Discovery Call or register for the 2-hour Coaching Session.  Find and follow me on all my social media platforms at https://linktr.ee/delblogger

Nov 14, 202015:58
How to Start a Podcast Workshop Promo

How to Start a Podcast Workshop Promo

Register today at https://www.helpingentrepreneur.com/education/ for the How to Start a Podcast For Your Business or Brand being held tomorrow, 12/12/20 at 6:30 PM.  Workshop online and in-person at H.O.M.E. Helping One More Entrepreneur located at 108 Patriot Drive, Suite A., Middletown, DE.

Presented by Antionette Blake, CEO of A. Blake Enterprises www.ablakeenterprises.com info@ablakeenterprises.com

Nov 11, 202000:40
Turn Your Podcast into a Published Book - Eps. #231

Turn Your Podcast into a Published Book - Eps. #231

As a podcaster, our main goal is to publish valuable content consistently for our listeners. In addition to that we are also looking for ways to grow and strengthen not only our loyal podcast listeners but our social media followers as well.

There are many ways in which to do this, including creating a blog for your  podcast which you should do; launch a video podcast or YouTube channel, leverage Pinterest to help promote your show; Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat and Tik Tok, but in today’s crowded field of 24 hour social media cycle, turning your podcast into a book is most effective!

If you are following me on YouTube then you may recall back in August when I decided to record an episode every day with plans to turn it into a book...well I haven’t done it yet….however, I have enough content to do so and am planning to kick off 2021 with those more than 100+ episodes of podcasting pointers.

I have however, authored 2 books, “Basic Blogging Tips for Beginners” and “Podcasting Your Purpose” Resource Guide on Amazon and just recently completed another Podcasting eBook which I will be launching during the holidays.

These books are an extension of the podcast and blog that allows yet another opportunity to expand and broaden my brand online.

There are many podcasters out there who have expanded their influence and reach by taking topics shared via audio on their podcast then putting those words on paper and turning it into a book and so should you!

Find and follow me on all my social media platforms to learn more at http://linktr.ee/delblogger

Nov 07, 202018:02
NaPodPoMo Begins November 1st - Eps. #230

NaPodPoMo Begins November 1st - Eps. #230

NaPodPoMo begins Sunday, November 1st, are you up for the challenge?  National Podcast Post Month was created by Jennifer Navarrete in 2007 and it's a great way to get started podcasting.

I will also be presenting “Podcasting For Your Business or Brand” on November 12th from 6:30 to 8:00 pm in Middletown, so this is perfect timing for me.  

During that in-person and virtual session, I will be covering a lot of information, such as:

  • What is a podcast
  • Why start a business podcast
  • Power of podcasting
  • Planning a podcast

We will talk about the benefits of starting a business podcast and if you are following me along, you know that not only does a podcast connect you to your clients and customer base in a non-salesy manner, but it can also help to broaden your brand and expand your exposure online and even perhaps provide an additional stream of income.

Podcasting is becoming a very popular and powerful medium and there are so many exciting enhancements coming to the podcasting world including:

So this is the perfect time to start a podcast and starting on November 1st, you can join millions of other podcasters as we kick of NaPodPoMo!

Oct 31, 202016:14
How To Get More Podcast Listeners Using LinkedIn - Eps. #229

How To Get More Podcast Listeners Using LinkedIn - Eps. #229

Did you know that you can get more listeners on LinkedIn for your podcast than from Facebook and Twitter?

Did you know that you can get more guests from LinkedIn for your podcast than from Facebook and Twitter?

Did you know that you should be promoting your podcast on LinkedIn more than on Facebook and Twitter?

The answer to these questions should be YES YES & YES!

If you are a podcaster and are doing this professionally, yes, like turning a hobby into a jobby, one of the best ways in which to promote yourself is on LinkedIn.

With all the changes with the Facebook algorithms, and the constant trash talking on Twitter, you may want to spend more time on LinkedIn, with not only promoting your podcast, but also in making connects for guests and sponsors as well as speaking engagements and paid gigs.

If your podcast is designed to help others in their industries, then you need to include that in your profile summary.

For example when you land on my LinkedIn profile, under my picture are the keywords:

Social Media Manager📌Author📌Award-winning Blogger 📌TV/Podcast Host 📌Professional Speaker📌Branding Specialist 📌

So right away you know that I am a Podcast Host.  My articles not only include my blog posts about podcasting, but also the links to the show for listening.

My About Me clearly reads: As a Professional Speaker, Coach, and Adjunct Instructor I train others on how to start a blog and or a podcast. As the CEO of A. Blake Enterprises I help business owners with their social media marketing & branding strategies to effectively engage with their target market audience.... see more

Featured Media includes the cover art for both of my podcasts, “Blog Your Way to a Business Profit” and the “Delaware Blogger Podcast” with clickable links to the show directories.

My Experience also includes “podcast host”

So you can plainly see that I am promoting myself as a podcast host and when I post, I also use the appropriate hashtags, #podcast #podcaster #podcasthost #podcastlife #delawarepodcaster

This is definitely a much better way in which to not only promote your podcast, but to also see guests for your show which is how I found most of mine for the “Out and About with Antionette” and”Social Media Sunday with the Delaware Blogger” podcasts.  I still get offers for guests via LinkedIn and outside of Facebook groups and communities that is the only means of contact I have made for guests.

Think of Linkedin as your 24/7 365 Chamber of Commerce where you can reach out to others who may be a great fit for your podcast and are professionals in what they do, as you can check from their profiles, which is far more extensive than a Facebook or Twitter bio.

So in your profile, make sure to make clear what your podcast is about so that others using search words will find you and include those key words in your profile and you may even want to include a profile pic that contains a mic - however, a professional picture with your face is more trustworthy than an image of a microphone.

Send an email to info@ablakeenterprises.com to schedule your 30-Minute Complimentary Discovery Call and to register for the 2-Hour Coaching Session.

Find and follow me on all my social media platforms at https://linktr.ee/delblogger

Oct 24, 202016:26
Podcasting in Your Prime - This Is Your Time Eps. #228

Podcasting in Your Prime - This Is Your Time Eps. #228

Hello and welcome to episode #228 of the Delaware Blogger Podcast here on Anchor FM

If you have yet to subscribe or Favorite my channel,  I invite you to do so now because every week I provide podcasting pointers that will help you launch and grow your podcast and if you prefer to see my face in the place with these pointers, head over to YouTube and subscribe - using my name Antionette Blake

Today’s topic “Podcasting in Your Prime - This is Your Time” Most of you that have been following me and my blog, Delblogger knows that my tagline is “Boomer Who Blogs with a Millenial Mind” and that my target market audience and clients are usually boomers and beyond, you know, those of us born between 1946 and 1964, personally it was 1961 for me and last month, on September 20th to be exact, I celebrated my 59th Birthday and just the month before on August 11th, I celebrated 30 years of marriage.

Some of you may say, “wow” that’s a long time, or “gurl you are old” - but I respond with “age ain’t nothin but a number - now ask me about my podcasts”

With age comes wisdom and common sense, yes, we went to school, many to HBCU’s or institutes of higher learning, but nothing I learned in college back in the late 70’s and 80’s prepared me for what’s going on in the world now - but that’s a different story for a different day!

Anywho, with age comes wisdom and knowledge that we can share with others which is why I encourage women AND men of a particular age to think about or actually to start a podcast.

We can share not only life skills but corporate skills, job skills, family skills, educational skills, technology skills, speaking skills, musical skills, storytelling skills, I could go on and on, but you know where I am going.

Once you get to a certain point in life, there is knowledge and wisdom to share and doing so on a podcast is probably the best platform today.  You can command the attention of 100’s, 1000’s, even perhaps millions of people using your own voice and you can do it from the comfort of your home in a t-shirt and shorts like me!

So I hope I have motivated a few of you boomers and beyond to take the next step to start a podcast and I hope those that I spoke with last week will definitely pursue their passion because age is just a number and we should be podcasting in our prime time which is now!

So if you are ready to share your skills with the world, using your voice, please send an email to info@ablakeenterprises.com to register for the 2-hour Podcasting Your Purpose Coaching Session and you will receive a Resource Guide, printables and other great items to get you started and launched and even learn how to monetize your podcast.

https://linktr.ee/delblogger

Oct 17, 202013:13
Repurposing Blog Content Podcast Promo

Repurposing Blog Content Podcast Promo

Are a blogger who is looking to get more traction on your previously published post? Then you should re-purpose your content. Head over to "Blog Your Way To a Business Profit Podcast to listen and learn more. https://tinyurl.com/blog2profit another Delaware Blogger Production!

Oct 15, 202001:59
10 Ways to Grow Your Show Eps. #227
Oct 10, 202020:26
Podcast Guest Request Pointers Eps. #226

Podcast Guest Request Pointers Eps. #226

If you are a new podcaster but you are ready to bring on guests to your show, I have a few tips to share that you should know before you do

Interviews are one of the most popular forms of podcast episodes and because podcasting is relatively new to most, being asked to be a guest is exciting, however, you want to make sure that each guest is bring value to your show and to your audience, as they are what is going to make or break your show.

In this episode I am talking about why you cannot relinquish control of your show especially as a newbie or it just might become one of those episodes that “gets lost in production” as well as a few pointers for booking guests.

Like I said, when you are looking for guests, make sure they fit the niche of the show and are providing value to your listeners.  You don’t just want to bring on a guest just because they are “rich and famous” unless their last name is Obama or Winfrey - just kidding.  Hey, you might even get James Carville on your show if it’s political because he too is launching a podcast - we are stompin' with the big dogs now.

Anywho, if you are interviewing guests, make sure to lay the ground rules and don’t let them take over your show because once you lose control you might be able to bring them back.

Oftentimes, even if you’ve known your guest for a period of time or have heard them interviewed on another podcast, they might try to hijack your show and that definitely is a no no.

My previous podcasts “Out and About with Antionette” were scripted interview style shows, I alway sent the Q&A’s to my guest prior to the show along with a guest release, however, it was always notated that even with the scripted Q&A’s there would be some ad-libbing, because you to make sure that you are delivering what you have promised your listeners no matter what and you do want to allow for some good storytelling to keep everyone engaged.

Finding podcast guests can be a struggle at first, but podcasting is still considered to be a new medium and a lot of people would be excited to be guests on your show.

So when you put out a call to find your guests, whether you are searching on LinkedIn using the appropriate hashtags or asking memes in your Facebook and Twitter podcast communities, be sure you let people know the type of show that you have as well as the topics of which you are seeking so you both know the criteria before you book them onto your show.

Remember, you don’t have to put anything or anyone on it that you don’t want to and 2  no-no’s - don’t pay nor charge guests!

Once you have chosen your guests and scheduled the interview, send them Guest Release form which you can create in Google Docs along with a release statement include questions such as:

  • Preferred name/Preferred title/Organization/Bio/Headshot/Topics to talk about/Links to website and social media platform

Recording remotely can be a challenge and nerve racking, but that doesn’t mean you should shy away from interviewing guests on the go.  I am going to leave the link in the show notes to an article by Descript.com that provides information on How to Record a Podcast Remotely and Get it Right the First Time.

I have a few tip sheets for podcasters and podcast guests, so send an email to info@ablakeenterprises.com and I’ll send you a copy and you can also register for the Podcasting Your Purpose Coaching Session!

Oct 03, 202017:54
Hit it & Quit it - How long should a podcast show be? #225

Hit it & Quit it - How long should a podcast show be? #225

Episode #225 of the Delaware Blogger Podcast

How Long Should a Podcast Show Be?

So you've decided to start a podcast - yay and congratulations! You have your title, your topic and your description.  You may even have purchased some equipment and are ready to get into the closet to start recording.

However, before hitting the record button you may be wondering just how long to record - 5 mins...15 mins...30 minutes or even 60 minutes.

Back in the day….long long time ago, when podcasting was first becoming popular with everyday folk, we were taught that it was best to hit it and quit it - don’t make it too long or people wouldn’t have time to listen as most were doing so via a normal commute which was 28-35 minutes - not in NYC or DMV, however, just long enough to get people from their home to their place of business...now with remote working, thanks to COVID-19 that changed.

Most people’s commute was from the bedroom to the living room so the attention span got longer which is a good thing because we had so much more time on our hands with nothing to do, vegging out on Netflix became popular so much so that “Netflix and Chill” became a popular phrase.

Podcast lengths began to change as well, however, it was intimidating for many that had short 30 minute shows to increase them to 60 minutes plus which is why, your content and your audience will determine when to “hit it and quit” it.

Listen to today's episode of the Delaware Blogger Podcast on more tips on how long your podcast show should be then send an email to info@ablakeenterprises.com to schedule a 30-Minute Complimentary Discovery Call or register for the Podcasting Your Purpose Coaching Session.

If you would like to be a sponsor of the Delaware Blogger Podcast please send an email for some great package pricing!

Find and follow me on all my social media platforms at https://linktr.ee/delblogger

Sep 26, 202014:56
HOOK 'EM & BOOK 'EM - Keep your listeners longer Eps. #224

HOOK 'EM & BOOK 'EM - Keep your listeners longer Eps. #224

On today's episode of the Delaware Blogger Podcast, I am giving you tips on how to hook and book your listeners; how to grab their attention in those 1st few minutes after they've scrolled through and decided they want to listen to your Podcast.

How are you going to keep them there for the entire show?  Here are a few way:

  • Hit them where hurts -
  • Bark a command - FOMO - Sense of Urgency
  • Share a testimony - love note from listeners
  • Share statistics  - Did you know...

You want to solve a pain point which is why most people are coming to your Podcast hook em, then at the end you book em with a CTA or Call to Action

  • sign them up - get their email
  • purchase a product or service
  • register for an event
  • free gift
  • visit your Podcast

In the EC Podcast Knowledge Academy, we covered several of these points and I invite you to sign up for these webinars as every Tuesday and Thursday we are providing you with timely and relevant information that will help to take your podcast to the next level, so make sure to sign up > Registration: https://www.eliteconversations.com/registration.html

When you are ready to start your podcast send an email to me at info@ablakeenterprises.com to schedule your 30-Minute Complimentary Discover Call and book your Podcasting Your Purpose Coaching Sessions.

Find and follow me on all my social media platforms at https//linktr.ee/delblogger

Make sure to leave a comment so that you will be entered for a chance to win a copy of the Basic Blogging Tips for Beginners Book and if you want a copy of the Podcasting Your Purpose Resource Guide, head over to Amazon to purchase a copy https://amzn.to/32fnA37

Sep 19, 202013:07
Podcasting in the Classroom Part 2 Episode #223

Podcasting in the Classroom Part 2 Episode #223

“Welcome Back to School” has definitely taken on a new meaning this year during this COVID-19 Crisis, however, some things never change, especially when it comes to teaching, educators are always looking for ways in which to engage their students.

In today's episode of the Delaware Blogger Podcast I am once again talking about Podcasting in the Classroom as I did in Episode #201 back in March.  With remote learning and Zoom Bombing, podcasting may be a great way to get and keep the students engaged in or outside of the  classroom.

As much as we want to think that kids want to stare at a computer screen all day everyday, that may not be the case and it can cause harm to their eyes, however, with a podcast, they can pop in their earbuds or put on their headphones every time a new episode of their favorite pod is released, head outdoors, walk the dog, eat lunch or just veg on the sofa after a long day of mathematics.

Statistically speaking, students between the ages of 12-17 make up only 10% of monthly podcast listeners so it’s still a somewhat undiscovered medium that you can use to capture their attention, adding something that may be a perfect media to supercharge your class and curriculum!

Even if you’re a total newbie, getting started with podcasts in the classroom is an easy skill to add to your teaching toolbag. Whether you’re using them to listen together or individually, or you’re having your students record their own podcasts, there’s space for podcasts in any syllabus.

If you want to learn more about starting a podcast in the classroom, send an email to info@ablakeenterprises.com to schedule a 30-Minute Complimentary Discovery Call or order a copy of the Podcasting Your Purpose Resource Guide on Amazon at https://amzn.to/3bU56ID

Find and follow me on all my social media platforms at https://linktr.ee/delblogger

Sep 12, 202015:59
Video or Just Voice? Episode #222

Video or Just Voice? Episode #222

Video or Just Voice - Episode #222

Do you want to appeal to your audience’s ears and eyes?  There’s no doubt that by looking into your audience’s eyes deepens the relationship and builds a stronger connection with them and that’s definitely a benefit of doing a video podcast.

But when you’re putting together an audio podcast there are a lot of things to take into consideration especially if you want a high-quality show.  Creating a video takes you to another level because you need to consider a whole bunch of additional factors, like…"Do I look Good?"

No seriously, money and experience is a major part of video production, everything from the lighting, the sound, the stage setup, etc.  Everything that could potentially make a viewer say “What the heck am I watching?”

If you’re a film school graduate or you have a production company you probably have video equipment, lighting and boom mics.  But if you’re just starting out you’re either going to have to hire a professional production company to produce your videos or purchase professional equipment and learn to do it yourself.

If you’ll just be using your iPhone or Android Smartphone to record you will still have to put time into thinking about your set, the lighting, the sound and of course the editing.  When recording an audio podcast you can record in your pajamas, sweats and a T-shirt, but when using a camera you have to think about what you are wearing and how you look.

A video podcast is less convenient for your listening audience

Your audience can actively listen to your content while multitasking - driving the car, walking the dog, doing the dishes, etc.   However, with a video they can’t consume your content on the go and they have to be stationary to watch from a computer, tablet or smartphone.

So think about it, will you do add video or just voice podcasting?

To schedule your 30-Minute Complimentary Discovery Call send an email to info@ablakeenterprises.com and subscribe to my blog https://delblogger.com


Sep 05, 202014:06
Your Podcast Sucks - So What! Eps. 221
Aug 29, 202016:48
Podcasting Prep Pointers Before Publishing

Podcasting Prep Pointers Before Publishing

"If You Fail to Plan...You Plan to Fail!"

Preparation for a podcast is key so before you hit the record button and publish your podcast episode make sure you’ve checked your recording setup.  You don’t want anything to negatively impact your audio so on today's episode I am sharing a few podcasting prep pointers before publishing:

  • Position your microphone at least 2-3 inches from your mouth
  • Check audio levels for proper sound quality
  • Pad the place you will be recording from
  • Put out any interrupters including pets and kids
  • Pour a beverage
  • Pee
  • Practice Practice Practice

If you are ready to start your podcast, send an email to info@ablakeenterprises.com to schedule your 30-minute Complimentary Discovery Call so that we can get you signed up for the 2-hour mini coaching session for $127.

Find and follow me on all my social media platforms at https://linktr.ee/delblogger


Aug 22, 202015:59
The Importance of Show Notes - Episode #219

The Importance of Show Notes - Episode #219

Show notes are basically a written post for your website or blog that covers the content that you discussed in your podcast.  There are many reasons why show notes should be part of your podcasting promotion and a few are talked about on today’s podcast episode.

  • Show notes encourage people to come to your website

Ideally you want to continue the relationship with your audience after they have listened to your show, so getting people to your website or blog via your show notes page gives them an opportunity in which to do so.

  • Show notes are great for SEO

If you want your podcast to be found by new listeners it needs to be indexed and featured in search results.  Unfortunately, Google can’t search MP3 files (at least not yet) so you need to include important keywords that are said in your podcast to be somewhere on the internet where the Google bots can find them.  Remember to make them readable with at least 300 words.

  • Show notes allows you share the links to other resources

Use your show notes to direct listeners to any links that you may have mentioned in the episode including affiliate links, online courses, books and invite them to join your email list for newsletter and podcast updates.

  • Show notes increase your authority

The more content you have online the more legitimate you’ll look online to the search engines and others when they are searching online.

  • Show notes can be viewed on all devices

When sharing your episodes you want a link that’s going to work for everyone no matter what device they’re using, Android or Apple which is not the case with some podcasting platforms.

  • Show notes are a great reference tool for your audience

If you provide links or mention articles or just want to share your guest’s information,  you can include them in your  show notes.  Listeners won’t need to take notes or re-listen to portions of your podcast for links they may have missed.

There are many other important reasons for show notes and I invite you to share some of your own and when you are ready to start your own podcast, please send an email to info@ablakeenterprises.com to schedule your 30-Min Complimentary Discovery Call or to enroll in the 90-Min Mini Coaching Session which is a great investment of $97.

Find and follow me on all my social media platforms using the hashtag #DelawareBlogger or my linktree id Delblogger https://linktr.ee/delblogger

Today’s episode was sponsored by NspireD LLC, www.nicolleinspires.com - NspireD by Nicolle Collection of inspirational t-shirts.

Aug 15, 202016:56
The 5 Pillars of Podcasting - Episode # 218

The 5 Pillars of Podcasting - Episode # 218

On this episode of the Delaware Blogger Podcast, I provide the 5 Pillars of Podcasting, however, there are many more so I am asking you to leave a message that can be to be added to the list.

The Five Pillars Of Podcasting
  1. Content
  2. Time
  3. CTA
  4. Submit RSS feed to podcasting directories
  5. Network with other podcasters

Subscribe to this channel as well as to my other Podcast, "Blog Your Way to a Business Profit" on Blog Talk Radio at https://tinyurl.com/Blog2Profit and my blog, https://delblogger.com  You can also see my face in the place every week day at https://youtube.com/antionetteblake

Aug 08, 202017:21
Starting a Podcast - What is Your Why?

Starting a Podcast - What is Your Why?

Starting a Podcast - What is Your WHY?  Episode #220

Are you looking to increase your profile as an influential voice in your industry?

Are you looking to enter into a new marketplace?

Perhaps you are looking to generate new marketing and sales leads?

Are you looking to grow your email list so you can continue to nurture your prospects and turn them into customers?

Are you looking to become the subject matter expert in your industry?

Create content that can be repurposed into articles and blog posts?

All of the above?

Or is there another reason?

The answer to these questions will determine your content, format, and call to action.  Remember, being clear on the answers to the above questions is key.  The right strategy and consistent promotion of your podcast will ensure that it generates the best return on investment which can eventually begin to become a profitable podcast.

Listen and learn more on this episode of the Delaware Blogger Podcast and make sure to subscribe so that you won't miss any future episodes.  For more information, send an email to info@ablakeenterprises.com

Aug 01, 202012:58
Slow Your Roll - 5 Tips for When Starting a Podcast

Slow Your Roll - 5 Tips for When Starting a Podcast

Slow Your Roll - 5 Tips When Starting a Podcast - Episode # 219

If you have committed to starting a podcast or even a blog you may want to jump in with both feet just to get started.  However, no matter how anxious you are to get started, let me tell you one thing first, "slow your roll" and line up your ducks first.

I started my first podcast in 2012 and my first podcast in 2017 - I am still updating and adding  and learning, so here are just 5 tips that I am sharing with you for when you are starting your podcast.

Client shoutouts!

Slow Your Roll Tip #1 - Don't spend a lot of money on equipment - everyone is anxious to have the latest and greatest piece of equipment - but wait, use your mic on the phone or an inexpensive condenser mic before going out to purchase fancy expensive equipment for a home studio - there are too many ways to record on the low - in your closet or under a fort and if you wait to save up for the latest and greatest equipment you may be waiting weeks, months or even years and then give up!

Slow Your Roll Tip #2 - Build a Foundation - you may be thinking that your podcast is just a hobby, but think of it as a jobby - why, because it’s your brand and you want it to be as good as it can get from the giddy up even though there will be tumbles along the way.  But think of it as an investment into your media brand, have fun but it may be the catalyst for something bigger - perhaps a tv show or major sponsorship!!??

Slow Your Roll Tip #3 - Listen to advice from those in the know - don’t be so cocky that you can’t learn from others - but choose those “others” wisely -  listen to their videos and podcasts, read, share and grow as there is always room for improvement even it you have been podcasting since 2000!  Remember, your network is your net worth so sign up for course or listen to audio from those in the know that are doing the darn thing!

Slow Your Roll Tip #4 - Waiting and Procrastinating - Imposter Syndrome is real!  Don’t allow fear or intimidation of other’s success stop you from starting.  If you fear that you are not deserving of success, even if you are helping only 1 person or have a handful of listeners, don’t delay your launch especially if you are passionate about your topic.  Every day that you delay your launch is a delay of success.  “You don’t have to be great to get started, but you do have to get started to be great!”

Slow Your Roll Tip #5 - Checking Your Numbers - stop it!

If you want to have a successful podcast you have to stop thinking about how many downloads you have - think about what really matters.  You are the voice behind the vision - you are the SME, you are building onto your brand, you are leaving a legacy!

As a new podcaster you will grow and get better, but don't wait and allow others to determine your path - remember “you have to do you boo boo!”

Email info@ablakeenterprises.com

Blog https://delblogger.com

Podcast https://tinyurl.com/Blog2Profit

Podcast https://anchor.fm/DelawareBlogger

Jul 25, 202013:27
Podcast Premier - Lights Camera Action!
Jul 18, 202016:14
Why Repurposing Podcast Content is Important - Episode #218

Why Repurposing Podcast Content is Important - Episode #218

Why Re-purposing Podcast Content Is Important!

Even though more than 32% of Americans have listened to a podcast in the past month. Re-purposing podcast content in other social media channels is how you can tap into new audiences and introduce them to your brand.  While the most important benefit of re-purposing podcast content is to broaden your brand and expand your exposure online, re-purposing your podcast content into a blog post, YouTube video, social media post, newsletter and email provides great value including:

SEO value: When you re-purpose your content into written material, you increase your SEO value. 

Credibility as a SME: Re-purposing your podcast topic creates credibility and makes you an authority on the subject or the Subject Matter Expert (SME).

Brand awareness: Consistently builds brand awareness, so that your listeners grow to trust you and new listeners will check out your show. 

Listen to this entire episode to learn the 5 Ways in which to re-purpose or re-package your podcast content.

If you are interested in a 30-Minute Complimentary Discovery Call, send an email to info@ablakeenterprises.com where you can also order your copy of Basic Blogging Tips for Beginners.  Don't forget to subscribe to my blog @ https://delblogger.com

Jul 11, 202015:23