Happy April, Besties!

I apologize for missing the last two months, but I’ve been working on a big project with Courtney that I can’t wait to tell you about in the coming months. I have some free time and wanted to make sure I kept you up to date with a quick column about a piece of gear a lot of you might be interested in.

Video has been one of the bigge…

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Last Wednesday was my pub date! 🎉 Girl Gone Wild is officially out in the world!

And because I can’t help myself, I’ve been treating this whole launch like a live case study.

The biggest takeaway so far?

Platform and community are everything… in a very measurable, what-actually-moved-the-needle way. In fact, my publisher said my preorder numbers were better than any other book they’ve produced. And podcasting has been one of the most powerful parts of this launch—both hosting my own shows and guesting on others.

A few early observations from the trenches:

• The people who already knew me (through my podcasts, newsletters, classes) showed up first and fastest

• Daily social media content keeps you top of mind, but it’s not as effective as more intimate content

• Long-form conversations build interest and trust in a way almost nothing else can

• Thank god for my warm relationships—they really pulled through

• You can’t control who says yes; it’s been important to focus on what I can control

• Local & niche audiences are hugely underrated

• Podcasting is as crucial for networking as it is for audience-building

• Community isn’t just nice to have, it’s the whole ballgame

For folks planning a book, podcast, or any kind of launch, I’m going to share more about what I’ve learned in the coming weeks—what’s been worth my energy and what’s not.

I’m also finishing production on my audiobook right now—self-narrated, self-produced—and I’ll be breaking that down soon, because there are definitely some lessons there too.

But right now, I’m just really feeling how much podcasting—and the community around it—saved me from spiraling during this milestone. What a wonderful medium. If you’ve been wondering whether it’s “worth it” to start a podcast or keep going with yours: it is.

I’ve been using my other podcasts to drip out book-related conversations.

The Bleeders

It’s Pub Day 🎉 Inside the Making of Girl Gone Wild

Hey Bleeders…

Listen now

a month ago · 8 likes · 2 comments · Courtney Kocak and Lili Gourley

If you’re curious about the book or just want to support, you can order Girl Gone Wild on Amazon, Bookshop.org, and Barnes & Noble. I’ve also learned it’s surprisingly easy to request books from your local bookstores and libraries. 💛

More soon. THANK YOU for being part of this community!

XO,
Courtney

So… ROLL CALL! 🗣

What actually moved the needle for you the last time you launched something?

Leave a comment

Hi Besties!

The trademark for Podcast Bestie was recently approved. It was a long process, but I wanted to bring you behind the scenes on my why—and my how.

First, the why.

I decided to pursue the trademark because I believe this brand has legs.

When I started Podcast Bestie, it took off pretty quickly. It felt like it filled a real gap in the market—specif…

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Hello again, Besties!

I hope everyone is having a great start to their year. I just got back from a trip to Napa, CA, and while I was packing, it sparked an idea for this month’s column. I often take for granted that a lot of us are self-taught when it comes to podcasting and haven’t had the production experience of working with a professional crew. I’v…

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Hey Besties!

If you’re new around here, I occasionally run paid advertising experiments for my podcast—and then analyze the results behind the paywall.

In July 2024, I ran my first Castbox campaign. In November 2025, I ran a second. Were they effective? Were the results different? Why? Would I do it again?

If you care about podcast growth, ad ROI, and whether platform ads are actually worth the money, the full breakdown is behind the paywall. And lucky you—this week, I’m running a 20 percent off sale.

Get 20% off forever

Let’s get into it.

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Just a quick note before I turn it over to Mike. I finally finished the final-final-final revision of my debut memoir Girl Gone Wild (out April 1st!), which was such a relief, and I’ve got some delicious treats coming up for you in the new year. I recently conducted another advertising experiment with Castbox. This was the original:

I had a bi…

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Hello Besties!

Hope everyone had a beautiful fall and is feeling festive as we head into the holidays. As a semi-reformed Scrooge, I didn’t always like this time of year, but the older I get, the more I appreciate it. I’m fully aware that as I type this I’m camping in beautiful weather at the Mexico border and some of you might be experiencing just a ta…

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Hey Besties!

Podcast Bestie just turned FOUR (!!) and, full transparency, I am not throwing a big birthday bash this year. No confetti, no special guest, no press release. Why? Because I’m overextended. Like… comically overextended.

Right now I’m juggling the final-final-FINAL revision of my debut memoir (coming April 1!), my very ambitious MFA critical paper, prepping for a taped standup showcase, and a bunch of other deadlines that simply can’t be moved. I have zero extra minutes in my life—and that’s precisely why this anniversary feels worth celebrating.

Podcast Bestie made it to year four because I've learned the ultimate longevity lesson: Sustainability is everything.

This summer, while I was neck-deep in memoir revisions, I dripped out pre-drafted lessons from my six-month podcasting course for Podcast Bestie subscribers. I also recycled some of my favorite Private Parts Unknown episodes so I could show up every Wednesday, per usual. (Bless the giant archive that made that possible.) And then, to rebuild my content runway for Private Parts Unknown and The Bleeders, I interviewed 35 people in three weeks (most of them in two) like an absolute psycho so Future Me didn’t have to deal with it.

Those decisions are the only reason all my shows, my book, my MFA, and the rest of my life didn’t collapse like a teetering Jenga tower.

Sustainable podcasting isn’t about doing less or half-assing it—it’s about working smarter, pacing yourself, planning ahead, and giving yourself permission to prioritize good and done over perfect. It’s knowing when you need to recycle. When you need to batch. When you need to hit pause so you can focus on the bigger, more urgent thing.

And honestly? I think that unlock is worth celebrating just as much as the bright shiny milestones. It’s actually what makes those bright shiny milestones possible.

Thank you for four incredible years of nerding out about podcasting with me. Here’s to creating smarter, not harder—and building systems that support the life, business, and art you actually want.

Your Bestie,
Courtney

I’m teaching some upcoming workshops you might be interested in:

• Edit & Elevate: Revision Intensive

• The Multi-Passionate Writer’s Life

• How to Make 2026 Your Best Writing Year Yet: Manifest Your Writing Goals

• How to Build a “Platform” for Writers Who Shudder at the Thought

• Start a Newsletter to Supercharge Your Platform, Network and Business

• Land Big Bylines by Writing for Columns

• So You Want to Start a Podcast?

So… ROLL CALL! 🗣

Have you used any sustainable strategies in your creative or podcasting life lately?

Leave a comment

Hey Besties!

This issue was inspired by two recent podcasting classes I taught—so many great questions (and mental blocks) came up that I decided it was time to update and re-share this guide. Podcasting has evolved, but the fundamentals haven’t changed: it’s still one of the best ways to expand your creative reach, build community, and open new career doors.

If you’ve been podcast-curious, this is your sign to start. And if you want more guidance and accountability, I have one final four-week podcasting class coming up starting this Sunday, November 2 via . It’ll be my final podcasting course for a while because I need to focus on promoting my book. So if you want a structured sandbox to finally get your show up and running, get in on the fun while you can!

From starting my first podcast in 2013 to producing shows for celebrities and CEOs, I’ve learned a lot. I’ve learned to treat my podcast like a business; these days, it’s actively generating client leads and sponsorships. Not to mention, it’s grown my personal and professional network and enhanced my résumé, reputation, and sphere of influence. (Okay, slow down, Napoleon, lol.)

Podcasting has been a transformative force in my life, and it’s the cornerstone of my creative career. Podcasting has changed the game for me.

✨ It’s changed my ability as a storyteller.
✨ It’s changed my knowledge base.
✨ It’s changed my network and relationships.
✨ It’s changed my mindset.
✨ It’s changed everything.

And now, it’s my mission to help my Besties reach their goals through podcasting. Starting a podcast isn’t easy, but it can be so rewarding. Here’s my updated advice on how to begin:

1. Start with your “why”

Your why is your foundation. Ask yourself:

• Why this podcast, and why now?

• What gap or need are you filling?

• What do you want it to do for your creative life or career?

Your reason can be big or small, personal or professional—but it has to matter enough to keep you going when motivation dips.

2. Set a clear goal

What does success look like for you?

Ask yourself honestly, “What do I want to accomplish with this podcast?”

✓ Generate X more leads for my business per month
✓ Make a handful of high-level contacts in my industry this year
✓ Establish myself as a thought leader and land speaking gigs
✓ Help listeners solve Y problem
✓ Tell an important story my community should hear

Your short-term goal should be specific, measurable, and attainable—like to launch a six-episode season. Your long-term goal can be aspirational (land sponsors, grow to 100K monthly downloads, adapt the show into another medium, interview your hero, etc.).

3. Nail your concept

Okay, you know why you want to make a podcast, so now it’s time to decide what your show is. Solo? Interview? Narrative? Hybrid?

Pick what fits your strengths and goals.

• Solo: build authority and intimacy

• Interview: expand your network

• Narrative: sharpen and show off storytelling skills

Concept = Format + Genre + Niche

Examples:

• A 10-minute solocast of ASMR mindset pep talks.

• A 30-minute interview-style business show with CEOs sharing their biggest failures.

• A 45-minute narrative nonfiction show featuring old Hollywood true crime stories from a feminist POV.

4. Define your audience

Now that you know what the podcast is, ask: “Who do I want listening, and what should they get out of it?”

Visualize your ideal listener:

• Age, vibe, values, and frustrations

• What they care about

• Where they hang out online

Maybe you’re trying to reach career-driven new moms struggling with work-life balance. Or techies who want to stay up-to-date on the latest advancements. Clarity here makes everything easier—from picking topics to promotion. Try to serve your listener first, always.

5. Write a mission statement

Synthesize your goal, concept, and audience into one guiding sentence.

Are you trying to entertain, educate, destigmatize, or shed light on an overlooked issue? This is your show’s purpose.

You don’t have to post your mission statement anywhere if you don’t want to. It’s just for when you’re like, “wait, why am I doing this again?” It’ll also help you determine which collaborations and monetization opportunities are aligned down the road.

Private Parts Unknown: destigmatize conversations about sex and relationships.
The Bleeders: demystify the book writing and publishing process for emerging authors.

Your mission = your North Star.

6. Choose a title that works

Pick something clear and memorable. Clever is fine, but clarity wins. Not everyone has to “get it,” but your target audience does.

Another important thing to consider: SEO. If your show’s about marketing or motherhood, consider including that keyword.

Double-check your title on Apple Podcasts and Spotify before finalizing to make sure another active podcast isn’t using it.

➡️ Podnews editor offered some advice on naming your podcast in his Podcast Bestie Q&A:

7. Craft a catchy tagline

Distill your vision into a one-liner that tells listeners what they’re getting. It should be easy to grasp and remember.

Private Parts Unknown: “a podcast about love and sexuality around the world.”
The Bleeders: “a podcast (and support group!) about book writing and publishing.”

Use it in your intro and description, as well as marketing and promo materials for consistent branding.

8. Pick a sustainable cadence

Say it with me: NOT 👏 EVERY 👏 PODCAST 👏 NEEDS 👏 TO 👏 BE 👏 A 👏 WEEKLY 👏 PODCAST. 👏

Start small. A six-episode season allows you to learn and iterate without burnout. Listeners will forgive breaks; they won’t forgive ghosting. Consider the best fit for the concept AND what’s sustainable for you.

9. Plan your first season

Outline your episodes—topics, guests, and segments. Keep a content calendar (I use Google Sheets for mine).

Set a premiere date and work backward. How much lead time do you need to comfortably prepare for your launch and have at least a few episodes in the can? (Preferably the whole season.) Having that deadline will keep you accountable.

10. Do market research (aka comps are your friend)

Find 2–3 comparable shows. Note their tone, episode length, and release schedule.

Ask: Where does my show fit—and how will it stand out?

This helps carve out your lane before you hit record. Really listening to any podcast can provide inspiration. I recommend exploring lots of different shows at this phase…

Don’t over-research, though. Inspiration = good. Analysis paralysis = bad.

11. Gear up

You do not need a fancy studio or expensive equipment to get started.

Starter setup:
🎙 Mic: At the absolute most, start with a Shure MV6. I love this mic, but you can also just get any $50 USB mic to start.
🎧 Headphones: closed-back, wired—my professional headphones hurt my ears, so I just use a pair I got for free on an airplane.
💻 Software: Descript (all-in-one recording + editing)

Don’t overinvest early; grow with your show.

12. Record smart

Even with AI, you can’t always “fix it in post.” Instead, avoid bad audio in the first place. Here’s how:

• Record in a quiet, soft-furnished space (avoid kitchens, bathrooms, and vaulted ceilings).

• Face away from hard surfaces (walls, windows) when possible.

• Keep the mic ~3–6 inches from your mouth. Test your levels beforehand!

• Always wear headphones to prevent echo.

• Always get a backup track. QuickTime or the Voice Memos app on a phone are good options that almost everyone has access to.

Good audio ups your credibility.

13. Edit well

Editing is where the magic happens—a thorough pass can elevate your content.

Checklist:
✓ Remove filler words (“um,” “like”)
✓ Trim tangents and long pauses
✓ Balance volume
✓ Add intro/outro music
✓ Export 128–192 kbps

14. Logo

Simple yet striking is a good rule of thumb for podcast logos. For inspiration, look through your podcast player and see what catches your eye. Create your own with Canva or hire a designer (99designs is an option).

15. Produce a trailer

Your trailer is your first impression. Keep it to an intriguing 60–90 seconds.

Hook → Introduce → Invite

End with: “Follow wherever you listen and tune in on [date].”

16. Choose a host (Substack is a smart start)

If you’re new, start on Substack.

• It’s free.

• It has a built-in newsletter and growth tools.

• You can upload audio posts with zero RSS setup, which lets you test ideas and find your voice before launching your first season.

When you’re ready for advanced analytics and ads, migrate to Captivate and keep your stats intact.

17. Build your launch plan

Give yourself at least a month to prepare:

1. Announce your show and logo

2. A week later, drop a teaser to activate your feed

3. A week later, release your trailer

4. A week later, launch your first episode

Use Substack to share behind-the-scenes updates and build anticipation.

18. Promote every episode (again and again)

Post on launch day, two days later, and again next week. Use different angles each time: quote, clip, question, or behind-the-scenes photo.

People need to see something multiple times before they act.

You don’t have to be everywhere—just pick your lanes and stay consistent.

Options to try:

• Expand episodes into Substack articles (I love doing this for )

• Share clips or audiograms on Reels and/or TikToks

• Post on Threads or LinkedIn if that’s your crowd

• Do guest swaps or promo trades (Tink Media has a great database for finding collaborators)

Promote with the same enthusiasm you bring to the mic.

19. Rinse & repeat

Repeat the relevant steps to sustain your podcast. Keep refining. Avoid the perfectionist trap, but raise your quality as your skills grow.

You learn by producing and publishing, so keep creating and shipping.

Remember Ira Glass’s advice: your taste is killer—but your early work won’t match it yet. The only way to close the gap is through volume.

Your voice will strengthen. Your workflow will tighten. Your audience will find you.

Just keep going.

20. Don’t overthink it—just start ✨

Podcasting has opened so many doors for me: creative, financial, and personal. It’s given me community, confidence, and a platform to share stories I care about.

But none of that would have happened if I hadn’t taken the first step.

If you’ve been hesitating, take messy action today.

And if you want hands-on support, join me for my final live class for a while on November 2. It’s the perfect container to turn your idea into a launch-ready show.

Sign up here

Who knows—your little podcast idea might just change your life.

So… ROLL CALL! 🗣

For those who have been podcasting for a while, what’s YOUR best advice for new podcasters? Aspiring podcasters, do you have any further questions?

Leave a comment

Hello again, Besties!

Hope everyone had a great month. We’re taking a break from audio today to talk about cameras for content creation. Fair warning: I’m NOT an expert in this field (or audio for that matter), but I do have experience using them. In a past career, I worked in the camera department for reality TV shows.

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Hey Besties!

We just wrapped the very first Podcast Bestie course: Podcast Curious to Podcast Pro in Just Six Months—your ultimate roadmap to podcasting success.

It’s been such a joy to guide y’all through the ins and outs of podcasting. Many of the posts are free, but you can get discounted access behind the paywall during the current sale. Here’s a recap of what we covered, broken down into eight parts:

🎙 Part 1: Foundations of Podcasting

Define your niche, audience, and mission, analyze the market, plan your content, budget smartly, and get organized from day one.

🎙 Part 2: Pre-Production & Planning

Master guest booking, interview prep, episode scripting, and structuring for compelling storytelling that keeps listeners hooked.

🎙 Part 3: Production Basics

Learn the essentials of recording, gear selection, and choosing the right audio/video strategy for your show.

• Clunky Podcast Apps? Not Anymore → Meet Auditory – clean design, smart recommendations, zero clutter. Listening, solved. Download for free today.

These ads provide vital support for this newsletter!
Click here for info and rates.

🎙 Part 4: Post-Production & Polishing

Elevate your podcast with professional editing techniques, dynamic sound design, and strategic use of music and effects to make your show shine.

🎙 Part 5: Launching Your Podcast

From legal must-knows to eye-catching cover art, publishing schedules, hosting platforms, and launch-day strategy—this is where your podcast takes flight.

🎙 Part 6: Sustainability

Create an ecosystem around your podcast and prevent burnout to keep your show thriving for the long haul.

🎙 Part 7: Monetization & Growth

Explore sponsorships, listener support, premium content, and other ways to turn your passion into profit—plus audience growth strategies that actually work.

🎙 Part 8: Going Pro

Turn your podcast into a career catalyst with fellowships, jobs, industry events, and pathways to expand your content into books, TV, and beyond.

And that’s a wrap on the debut Podcast Bestie course! 🎉

From defining a concept to exploring monetization, and from recording basics to big-picture career moves, this inaugural group truly went from podcast curious to podcast pros.

I’m so proud of everything we learned together, and just know that I’m cheering you on. Whether you’re just starting to dream about your podcast or you’re doing everything you can to up-level, know that you’ve got a roadmap to return to every step of the way.

I’m teaching some upcoming workshops you might be interested in:

• The Multi-Passionate Writer’s Life

• How to Build a “Platform” for Writers Who Shudder at the Thought

• Creating Your Podcast

• Start a Newsletter to Supercharge Your Platform, Network and Business

• Land Big Bylines by Writing for Columns

• So You Want to Start a Podcast?

• Podcasting for Writers: How to Start, Sustain & Grow Your Podcast

• Edit & Elevate: Revision Intensive

• How to Make 2026 Your Best Writing Year Yet: Manifest Your Writing Goals

So… ROLL CALL! 🗣

What was your favorite lesson from this course? Comment below and let me know!

Leave a comment

Hey Besties!

OMFG—we’re on our 26th and final lesson! We’ll recap next week, but for now, relish the fact that we just spent six months upleveling our podcasting game together. And trust me, this last lesson is a goodie.

By now, you’ve got a podcast. You’re cranking out episodes, having meaningful conversations, and building a loyal listener base. Amazing work! But here’s the thing: if you’re only publishing in audio form, you’re leaving listeners, opportunities, and money on the table.

The good news? Your podcast isn’t just a podcast. It’s a content engine that can fuel books, articles, newsletters, radio stories, TV shows, and more. By adapting your work into other mediums, you can reach new audiences, expand your influence, create more ways to scratch your creative itch, and maybe even get your podcast to pay you back.

Let’s talk about how to take your content further, especially when it comes to repurposing episodes and pitching radio stories.

Iterate like an expert

Your podcast isn’t just an audio file—it’s an idea factory. Every episode you create is raw material that can be reshaped and remixed into something new. Here are some powerful ways to extend the life of your content:

✍️ Essays & articles: A single episode can spark a thoughtful personal or reported essay. Think of it as zooming in on one moment, theme, or question from your show and giving it room to breathe on the page. Essays are perfect for literary journals, anthologies, mainstream publications, or even as stepping stones toward a larger book project.

Some bylines related to my podcast, Private Parts Unknown:

• LA Is Home to the Country’s Only Unionized Strippers — Here’s How They Did It

• North Hollywood’s Star Garden reopens as only unionized strip club in nation

• The Los Angeles Sex Work State of the Union

• Meet the Artist Behind Doc Johnson’s Sex Toys

• My OnlyFans Was a Fun Way for Me to Make Money. Then My Content Got Stolen.

📚 Books: If you’ve explored a niche topic in-depth or interviewed fascinating people around a theme, you may already have the building blocks of a book. I can think of countless examples: My Favorite Murder became the bestselling memoir Stay Sexy & Don’t Get Murdered. Cara McGoogan’s reporting for the second season of Bed of Lies inspired her book Blood Farm. My friend adapted his Write About Now podcast into Write About Now, the book! Similarly, your audio archive could be your first draft.

📝 Blogs & newsletters: Some people never listen to podcasts (tragic, I know!), but they do read blogs, essays, and Substacks. Repurposing episodes into written posts not only makes your work discoverable via search engines but also cements you as a thought leader in your niche by helping you connect with another audience segment. ’s is a great example of how to give your podcast a new life as a newsletter. I also do a lot of that over on .

The Bleeders

An Anarchist’s Guide to Writing & Publishing

Hey Bleeders…

Read more

a year ago · 5 likes · Courtney Kocak and Margaret Killjoy

📺 TV & film pitches: Podcasts are the new Hollywood scouting grounds. Dirty John, The Dropout, and Dr. Death all started as podcasts before landing on the screen. If your show has a strong central narrative or a world of rich characters, think about packaging it for a film or TV pitch, or writing the pilot or screenplay yourself.

📻 Radio stories: Radio is a natural cousin to podcasting. A compelling podcast miniseries can often be reshaped into a radio pitch (or vice versa). Try local NPR affiliates, This American Life, Snap Judgment, The Moth, or your favorite radio show. Many outlets look for compelling human-interest stories—and guess what? You’re already making them!

Here’s one I produced for KCRW that found a second life on my podcast:

Happily leather after at The Eagle in Silver Lake

Pitch radio stories like a pro

Not all podcasts translate directly to radio, but if you’ve got a narrative-driven episode, a gripping interview, a high-stakes personal story, or you’re documenting a recent trend, you might have a winner.

Here’s how to make the leap:

🎤 Pick your best story: Think: Why this, why now? Does it speak to a news development, current trend, or have topical relevance to the show you’re pitching? Look for strong characters, high emotional stakes, or a satisfying arc. What would grab someone in the first 30 seconds?

📩 Know where to pitch: Research outlets and programs that align with your podcast’s vibe. Each has its own flavor. This American Life loves stories that reveal something surprising about human nature. Snap Judgment is all about “storytelling with a beat.” The Moth thrives on live storytelling of first-person narratives. Look up their submission guidelines and tailor your pitch accordingly.

📝 Craft a killer pitch: Keep it short, sharp, and irresistible. What’s the heart of the story? Why does it matter right now? How will it sound on air? If you can answer those three questions, you’re ahead of the game.

📢 Be flexible: Radio often demands a tighter structure and additional narration. Be ready to work with an editor and adapt your podcast episode into a radio-first format. The more collaborative you are, the better your chances of repeat assignments.

The bottom line? Think bigger!

Your podcast is more than just a podcast—it’s a content goldmine.

The key to growth and getting your name out there is learning how to leverage your existing work into new opportunities. By repackaging your content, you create multiple entry points for people to find you, engage with you, and potentially pay you.

So don’t just make a podcast—make a content ecosystem. That’s how you grow your audience, boost your credibility, and open doors you didn’t even know were there.

I’m teaching some upcoming workshops you might be interested in:

• The Multi-Passionate Writer’s Life

• Back to School Pitch Party (Use code BESTIE for $100 off)

• How to Build a “Platform” for Writers Who Shudder at the Thought

• Creating Your Podcast

• Start a Newsletter to Supercharge Your Platform, Network and Business

• Land Big Bylines by Writing for Columns

• So You Want to Start a Podcast?

• Podcasting for Writers: How to Start, Sustain & Grow Your Podcast

• Edit & Elevate: Revision Intensive

So… ROLL CALL! 🗣

Have you ever adapted your podcast into another format? Comment below and let me know!

Leave a comment

Hello again, Besties.

I hope everyone has been enjoying this mild summer we’re having. I’ve been going to the beach a ton, but the huge crowds have made it impossible to get recordings without noise pollution. So lately I’ve been using contact microphones for my field recording trips. Air isn’t the only medium that sound travels through. It also travels…

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Hey Bestie!

Ready to level up your podcasting game? Whether you’re looking to connect with other podcasters, learn new tricks of the trade, or just soak up inspiration, attending a podcast festival or conference is one of the BEST investments you can make in your show.

Here’s why these events deserve a spot on your calendar—and the top ones worth checking…

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Hey Besties!

Fellowships and internships aren’t just for college kids. If you’re looking to level up your podcasting skills, expand your network, or just get a foot in the door, these programs can be total game-changers.

Why bother?

A good fellowship or internship can give you:
✅ Hands-on experience with top-tier media companies and podcast network powerhou…

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Hey Besties,

Growing your podcast audience isn’t just about making a great show (though that’s obviously step one). It’s about putting your voice in front of the right people—and doing it consistently, long after your initial launch. While we all wish for the boost of going viral overnight (~manifesting that for us~), sustainable growth comes from strategic ongoing PR, partnerships, and collaborations.

Let’s break it down. 👇

1. PR tactics: Pitch yourself like a pro

You know your podcast is amazing—but do the people who can amplify it? Whether you’re pitching journalists, blogs, newsletters, or other podcasts, the key is showing them why you’re worth covering or featuring.

Here’s how to nail it:

✅ Craft a killer pitch – Keep it short, clear, and value-packed. What’s your unique hook? Why is it relevant now? And most importantly, why this outlet or show?
✅ Target wisely – Don’t spray and pray. Instead, research outlets and shows that align with your niche, tone, and audience and actually listen and engage with their content before sending the pitch. Post about them on social media! Then when it’s time to pitch, make it personalized, not generic.
✅ Follow up (but don’t be annoying) – Sometimes, a gentle nudge is the difference between getting booked and getting ghosted. Just keep it gracious, not pushy.

Pro tip: Media folks are always looking for fresh voices—help them help you with a well-targeted pitch and a clear angle.

2. Build a media kit & leverage partnerships

A media kit makes you look like you have your sh*t together. It’s a one-stop shop that includes:

🎤 A punchy show description – What’s your podcast about, and why should people care?
📊 Listener demographics & download stats – Help others understand your audience and reach, especially if these numbers demonstrate a dedicated listenership.
✨ Notable guests – Big names? Interesting niche experts? Flaunt ’em.
📰 Press mentions – Include links to articles, reviews, or shoutouts from media outlets.
🤝 Sponsors or brand partners – Showcase partnerships with brands that have supported your podcast.
📸 High-quality images of you and your branding – Include clean, professional photos of yourself and your show’s branding, and provide a link to a folder where others can download assets. Make it easy for others to promote you.

Your media kit can take the form of a PDF or a webpage—essentially an electronic press kit.

Once your kit is in tip-top shape, start working your existing network and expanding into new territory. Reach out to influencers, creators, and brands that align with your vibe and speak to a similar audience. This could mean teaming up for social media takeovers, collaborating on giveaways, guest appearances in each other’s newsletters, or co-branded content that benefits everyone involved. Think: newsletter swaps, creative cross-promotions, and mutually beneficial partnerships of all stripes.

P.S.: Don’t forget Anna Van Valin’s strategy for cross-media promotions!

3. Collaborations: The secret sauce

Want to know the ultimate podcasting growth hack? Collaboration. Collaboration. Collaboration.

Teaming up with fellow podcasters is one of the cheapest and most effective ways to expand your audience—and it’s fun, too! Growth isn’t about hacking the algorithm; it’s about building real, ongoing relationships.

Some easy ways to collab:

🔄 Feed swaps – Drop each other’s episodes into your feeds.
🎤 Guest swaps – Interview each other and cross-promote.
🛠️ Co-create content – Team up for special joint episodes, panels, live events, a newsletter swap, or even IG shoutouts.

Need help finding collaborators? Check out Tink’s Podcast Friends List for easy-to-search options. And don’t forget to steal my template that makes feed drops a breeze.

I’m teaching some upcoming workshops you might be interested in:

• Land Big Bylines by Writing for Columns

• The Multi-Passionate Writer’s Life

• Back to School Pitch Party (Use code BESTIE for $75 off)

• How to Build a “Platform” for Writers Who Shudder at the Thought

• Creating Your Podcast

• Start a Newsletter to Supercharge Your Platform, Network and Business

• Podcasting for Writers: How to Start, Sustain & Grow Your Podcast

So… ROLL CALL! 🗣

Who’s your dream podcast collab? Drop a comment and let me know who you’d love to team up with—and why. Let’s make some podcast magic happen!

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Hey Besties!

Let’s talk about monetization—because yes, it is possible to make money from your podcast with the right strategy. Whether you’re just starting to dip your toes into monetization or you’re ready to level up, this quickie guide will give you an overview of the myriad ways to get those coins.

The Classic Cuatro: Affiliate marketing, ads, spons…

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Happy summer, Besties!

I hope everyone is enjoying the weather—and hopefully taking a vacation. Summer means it’s drum corps season for me, and you bet I took a road trip across California, recording dorky band stuff. This time last year, I was on my way to Indianapolis for the DCI Finals, which also means it’s my one-year anniversary of owning my doubl…

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Hey Bestie,

Let’s talk about something nearly every podcaster wrestles with: how to keep up with the content treadmill without totally burning out. If your show has ever felt like a relentless beast that constantly needs to be fed, trust me, you’re not alone.

The pressure to stay consistent while juggling everything else in life is real. So how do you keep showing up for your audience without sacrificing your sanity?

You need a sustainable content strategy—one that works with your life, not against it. Here are my top tips for podcasting smarter, not harder:

1. Podcast in seasons

This is one of the best ways to build in sustainability and intention by designing each season around a specific story arc, theme, or experiment.

Create short, themed seasons—5 to 10 episodes each—so you’re not locked into an endless weekly grind. It’s a great way to pace yourself, build anticipation, and get strategic with your topics.

2. Find your realistic cadence

Consistency is important, but it has to be a pace you can actually maintain. If weekly episodes are frying your last brain cell, switch to biweekly, monthly, or even seasonal drops.

You get to choose what “consistent” looks like. It’s better to have a slower, steady rhythm than ghosting your audience because you’re overwhelmed. Your listeners will stick around if they know when to expect you.

3. Reuse, repurpose, recycle

You don’t need to reinvent the wheel every episode. Put your remix goggles on and look at your archive with fresh eyes—it’s a goldmine!

• Got two or more interviews that touch on similar themes? Stitch them into a thematic roundup.

• Pull quotes from past guests and use them as jumping-off points for new conversations.

• Add fresh intros or commentary to older episodes and re-release them.

• Put together a best-of episode.

4. Batch recording = your bestie

If you’re stuck in a painful cycle of oh crap, I have nothing for this week, batching is a game-changer. Set aside some time on your calendar, or double up when you’re in the zone, and record multiple episodes in one go to help build your content runway so you’re not constantly scrambling to meet deadlines.

It’s like meal-prepping, but for your podcast. It’s also a lifesaver during travel, holidays, or those “I just can’t today” moments.

5. Build in breaks

Burnout is real. And avoidable!

Whether it’s short hiatuses between seasons, summer breaks, or a rerun month featuring fan-favorite episodes, scheduling downtime keeps the pod fresh and gives you a breather. Plan your breaks in advance, so you can communicate them to your audience. But don’t feel guilty—your creativity needs space to recharge so you can come back to the mic stronger.

Your favorite podcasters take breaks; you can too.

6. Lower the barrier to creating

Not every episode needs to be an hour-long, high-production, fully sound-designed masterpiece. Sometimes simple = sustainable. Try:

• A casual solo check-in

• A quick hot take

• An audio diary-style update

• A listener Q&A

• A teaser for something you’re working on

Low-lift, bite-sized formats keep your feed alive without draining your energy.

7. Minisodes for the win

Short on time or bandwidth? Drop a quick 5–10 minute minisode. This could be:

• A quick tip

• A sneak peek at next week’s guest

• A personal story or behind-the-scenes moment

• A voice memo vibe

Minisodes are a low-pressure way to stay connected with your audience between bigger drops.

8. Automate & delegate where you can

If editing, writing show notes, or coordinating social media is draining you, assess what you can outsource, automate, or simplify.

• Use templates for graphics, emails, and show notes

• Batch your social posts and schedule them ahead of time

• Hire a virtual assistant or editor, even if just for a few hours a month

• Use tools like Descript to streamline your workflow

If there’s a task you dread, try to get it off your plate by any means necessary. Delegating even one thing can help you reclaim time and mental energy. Your future self will thank you.

9. Bank evergreen episodes

If inspiration strikes or your schedule opens up, record a couple “just in case” episodes you can drop anytime. Great topics for this include:

• Your origin story

• FAQs from your listeners

• Timeless how-to guides

• Commentary on popular topics in your niche

They’ll come in clutch during surprise sick days or life chaos moments.

10. Don’t underestimate newsletters

If you're between episodes or taking a break, your newsletter can keep your audience engaged with written content, visual updates, or behind-the-scenes insights. It also gives you a way to update them on your return. It doesn't always have to be audio!

I’m currently using this strategy for :

The Bleeders

Revision Kink 🪢

Hey Bleeders…

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10 months ago · 11 likes · 2 comments · Courtney Kocak

The goal isn’t just to make a great show—it’s to build something sustainable that you actually enjoy making. That’s how you stick with it for the long haul.

Missed the last few issues? Catch up:

I’m teaching some upcoming workshops you might be interested in:

• Land Big Bylines by Writing for Columns

• The Multi-Passionate Writer’s Life

• Back to School Pitch Party (Use code BESTIE for $75 off)

• How to Build a “Platform” for Writers Who Shudder at the Thought

• Creating Your Podcast

• Start a Newsletter to Supercharge Your Platform, Network and Business

• Podcasting for Writers: How to Start, Sustain & Grow Your Podcast

So… ROLL CALL! 🗣

What’s your biggest challenge when it comes to staying consistent with your pod? Comment below and let me know—I’d love to hear from you!

Leave a comment

Hi Besties!

You know how Marvel has a whole cinematic universe? That’s the kind of energy I recommend bringing to your podcast. Your show isn’t just a show—it’s a brand, a community, a business, and a full-on ecosystem.

The goal? To make your podcast the central hub for all your creative and entrepreneurial endeavors by extending its reach through blogs,…

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