Launching a podcast can be a powerful way to engage with your audience, build your brand, and share your expertise. At Oak Tree Marketing, we recently helped our client to launch a podcast using our structured approach: Plan, Build, and Execute. Here’s a detailed case study of how we guided him through the process.
The Challenge
Our client came to us with a vision of creating a podcast that would resonate with his target audience and position him as an authority in his niche. However, he had no experience in podcasting and was unsure where to begin. He needed a clear strategy, consistent execution, and ongoing support to ensure his podcast stood out among others.
Plan Phase: Laying the Foundation
The first step was to establish a strong foundation for his podcast. We started by defining his goals and the purpose of the podcast. Was it meant for top-of-the-funnel marketing, content marketing, or pure entertainment? Through several consultations, we clarified that his primary objective was to deliver maximum value to her audience by sharing expert insights and actionable advice.
1. Establishing a Strong Business Case:
We helped him outline a clear business case. This involved setting clear goals for his podcast, such as increasing brand awareness, driving traffic to his website, and building a loyal listener base.
2. Securing Commitment:
To ensure long-term success, we stressed the importance of a one-year commitment from all contributors involved, including the host, producer, and content team. This commitment was needed for maintaining consistency and building momentum over time.
3. Developing a Content Plan:
Together, we planned the first five episodes, outlining the main topics and episode arcs. This preparation ensured a smooth start and consistent content delivery, keeping the audience engaged from the very beginning.
Build Phase: Bringing the Vision to Life
With a solid plan in place, we moved on to developing the key elements of the podcast.
1. Development:
We assisted him in determining the podcast’s style, length, segments, title, and release schedule.
2. Recording:
We recommended recording the first five episodes before the official launch. This approach allowed for a buffer, ensuring he could maintain a consistent release schedule.
3. Editing:
We provided guidance on the initial editing process to help clean up any audio issues and ensure a polished final product. We advised on refining at least one episode fully to serve as a benchmark for quality.
4. Brain Trust:
We encouraged him to share the polished episode with trusted individuals in his network for honest, constructive feedback.
5. Refine:
Using the feedback received, we implemented the necessary changes for the initial release to meet the highest standards and comply with hosting platform requirements.
6. Teaser and Artwork:
We advised on creating a 2 to 3-minute teaser to generate excitement and test technical aspects of the podcast feed. Additionally, we provided guidance on designing eye-catching podcast artwork that was clear, mobile-friendly, and met all iTunes requirements.
Execute Phase: Launching and Growing the Podcast
With everything in place, it was time to launch and promote the podcast.
1. Broadcast:
We helped him announce the podcast launch through his website, social media, and email lists to build maximum excitement.
2. Launch:
We launched the “big 3” episodes, giving listeners enough content to binge and get hooked. We encouraged listeners to subscribe and leave reviews, which boosted the podcast’s rankings.
3. Optimise:
After ten weeks, we reviewed listener feedback and helped him make improvements to future episodes. This process ensured the podcast continued to meet audience expectations and stay relevant.
4. Marketing Strategy:
We developed a long-term marketing strategy to grow his audience, including plans for attracting more listeners and subscribers. This strategy was important for sustaining the podcast’s growth and increasing its impact.
5. Monetise (Optional):
While monetisation was not the initial focus, we discussed potential future strategies for generating revenue once the podcast had built a substantial and loyal audience.
Conclusion
Through careful planning, strategic development, and consistent execution, Oak Tree Marketing helped our client successfully launch his podcast.
If you're considering launching a podcast and need expert guidance, contact Oak Tree Marketing. We provide comprehensive digital marketing strategy and execution to help you achieve your goals and drive results.
We are also happy to share our comprehensive 'Podcast Launch Guide' with you to help you get started! If you're interested, just send an email via the button below, and we'll send you the guide.
Or contact Elena at elena@oaktreemarketing.co.uk