Have you ever felt like you’re doing everything to grow your podcast—posting on social, inviting guests, maybe even running ads—but still not seeing the momentum you want?
You’re not alone. Most podcasters don’t struggle because they aren’t working hard enough. They struggle because they don’t have a connected strategy. That ends today.
In this episode of Clocking In, we’re wrapping up our podcast growth series with a clear, actionable roadmap: The Podcast Growth Framework. This isn’t just a recap—it’s the foundation of our brand-new Podcast Growth Services at Gaffin Creative, designed to help you stop guessing and start growing.
Clocking In with Haylee Gaffin is produced by Gaffin Creative, a podcast production company for creative entrepreneurs. Learn more about our services at Gaffincreative.com, plus you’ll also find resources, show notes, and more for the Clocking In Podcast.
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Have you heard of Mic Check Society? It’s our community for podcasters who are looking to take their podcast from good to great. Come join us for educational trainings, a private member’s only community, and monthly calls! Get $10 off per month with code PODCAST at micchecksociety.com.
1. Build a Strong Brand Foundation
Every great podcast begins with a clear identity. Without strong branding, even your best episodes can feel disconnected.
Ask yourself:
- What’s your unique value proposition?
- Who is your podcast for, and what transformation are you offering?
- Is your artwork, show structure, and introduction aligned with your brand?
If not, it may be time for a refresh. And yes, it’s okay to question whether intros and outros are still serving your show. Sometimes, less is more.
Action Step: Update your podcast description, evaluate your visual branding, and clarify how you’re positioning yourself as the expert—especially when bringing guests onto your show.
2. Maximize the Audience You Already Have (Organic Growth)
Growth doesn’t always mean “more.” Sometimes, it means deeper.
When you nurture your current listeners, they become your biggest growth channel. They’ll share your show, leave reviews, and recommend you to friends—but only if you ask and engage.
Action Step:
- Talk about your podcast more often (on every platform!).
- Repurpose your content into reels, carousels, and audiograms.
- Add clear CTAs throughout your episode (not just at the end).
- Think creatively—do something different to promote your podcast this week.
3. Leverage Strategic Collaborations
Once your existing audience is nurtured, it’s time to expand your reach through collaborations. This is where the magic of borrowed trust comes in.
Whether you’re guesting on podcasts, inviting aligned guests, or planning newsletter and content swaps, you can build brand awareness and credibility—without starting from scratch.
Action Step:
- Pitch yourself as a guest on 3 shows this month.
- Invite guests who will actually share the episode.
- Plan 1 content swap (newsletter, blog, or social).
4. Invest in Paid Growth (The Right Way)
If you’re ready to accelerate, paid promotion can help—but only when your brand and organic presence are already strong.
You don’t need a massive budget. You need the right ad strategy.
Action Step:
- Test low-cost podcast player ads.
- Include podcast content in your current ad strategy.
- Consider sponsoring a collaboration with another creator in your space.
5. Build Evergreen Growth Systems
This is where sustainability happens.
SEO, repurposing, and evergreen content systems allow you to grow—even when you’re not actively promoting your show. That means less hustle, more strategy.
Action Step:
- Optimize every episode for search engines.
- Conduct a quarterly growth audit.
- Set up systems that layer all four previous steps into a long-term engine.
Ready to Grow Smarter, Not Harder?
Podcasting isn’t just about releasing episodes. It’s about building something that lasts.
If you’re serious about growing your podcast and want expert guidance rooted in strategy, our new Podcast Growth Services are open. We’ll help you build a framework tailored to your show, your goals, and your strengths—whether you’re just starting or scaling.
Let’s take your podcast from good to great—without the burnout.
📍 Learn more at gaffincreative.com
🎙️ Join our podcaster community at micchecksociety.com and use code PODCAST for $10 off/month.
Loved this episode? Share it with a friend who’s stuck in the growth plateau. And don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts to help us reach more podcasters like you.
Time-stamps:
Your brand foundation (2:19)
Leverage your existing audience (8:12)
Expand your reach through collaborations (10:38)
Invest in paid growth and advertising (12:41)
Build a sustainable and scalable long-term growth engine (14:57)
Mentioned in This Episode:
Episode 167 Paid Media: gaffincreative.com/167-how-to-maximize-your-podcast-growth-with-paid-media/
Episode 166 Collaboration: gaffincreative.com/166-grow-your-podcast-audience-through-collaboration
Episode 165 Organic Growth: gaffincreative.com/organic-growth-maximizing-your-existing-audience
Episode 164 Foundations of Podcast Growth: gaffincreative.com/164-foundations-of-podcast-growth-grow-your-podcast-series-pt-1
