Episode 220 | Insider Secrets to a Top 100 Podcast | Courtney Elmer

Featured Guest: Adam Adams
Adam Adams is the founder of GrowYourShow.com, where they help you get your message out to the world. Their clients are getting ranked in the top 1% on Apple Podcast and other top charts, which means ONE thing: His clients have more influence than 99% of the podcasts out there. Adam says the reason most podcasters fail is a lack of marketing. This is why his niche is to manage that critical piece so you can have more listeners, more downloads, more ratings, and more reviews. Adam has a loyal following in the real estate industry as well as the podcasting industry. After selling his real estate podcast (He actually sold his first show... I didn't even know you could do that), he launched the Podcast on Podcasting which is ranked as the top podcast to help podcasters.

0:55 - The One Thing Your Podcast Needs to Succeed (And nope, it's not great content) 
3:57 - Netflix's Secret to Launching Bingeworthy Shows 
7:40 - The Pre-Launch Strategy that Triggers Algorithms and Creates Buzz 
14:18 - The Top Mistake Podcasters Make When Launching Their Show 
19:04 - Why Social Proof Matters More Than You Think

Proven Strategies for Better Podcast Marketing

When people ask me, "How can I get more listeners to engage with my show?!" My answer is always simple: know what makes your listeners want to engage in the first place. Because in the world of podcasting, creating valuable content is only half the battle. To truly grow your podcast, you need to know how to engage your listeners both on and off the podcast platforms with an effective podcast marketing strategy.

That's why I invited one of the few experts I trust in the podcasting space, Adam Adams, to join me in this episode to show you the most effective ways to keep your audience hooked and coming back for more.

So if you're ready to stop feeling like you're talking to yourself in an empty room and learn the steps you can take to help more listeners find your show (especially if you are launching for the first time), read on.

Podcast Marketing 101: Netflix's Secret to Launching Bingeworthy Shows

Most podcasters fall into the trap of thinking that their podcast itself is the marketing tool. But let’s imagine you’re on a road trip from Denver to Salt Lake. You’ve got the car (your podcast) and the destination (podcast success). But without fuel (marketing), you’re not going anywhere. To attract listeners and build a loyal following, think of podcast marketing as the fuel that gets you where you ultimately want to go.

Like Adam clarifies, your podcast is more like a vehicle — it’s how you stay in front of your audience and consistently deliver value. The real podcast marketing happens off-mic, through strategic social media engagement, paid ads, and networking.

Look at Netflix. Remember when Stranger Things first launched? It didn’t just appear out of nowhere — they carefully built anticipation and never dropped a new season without creating intentional buzz around it first. Your podcast launch should follow the same approach.

The #1 Mistake Podcasters Make When Launching Their Show

Launching a podcast without a plan is like trying to cook a gourmet meal without a recipe. Sure, you might get something half-baked, but it’s not going to be the result you expected. Many podcasters hit "publish" on their first episode and then sit back, waiting for the audience to roll in. Spoiler alert: that’s not how it works.

Adam stresses the importance of having a pre-launch strategy that creates buzz and positions your podcast for success from day one, then following up with a strategic podcast marketing plan to keep your show in front of new potential listeners. By following his advice, you can avoid the common mistake of launching to crickets and instead get your podcast discovered from day one.

The Pre-Launch Podcast Marketing Strategy to Get Your Show Discovered

One of the most effective ways to create buzz for your podcast is through a well-executed pre-launch campaign so you can leverage early momentum for your show. There are five things that trigger the podcast player algorithms, and knowing how to tap into them can make or break not just your podcast’s early success, but your long-term podcast momentum also.

Adam’s advice? Go big. Reach out to 100 or 200 people in your network — personally. Send them a quick voice message asking them to listen to an episode or two and leave an honest review. This personal touch not only boosts your ratings but also increases downloads and subscribers, which in turn triggers those all-important algorithms.

Why Social Proof Matters More Than You Think

Here’s the thing: humans tend to trust what others have already approved. The same is true in the podcasting world: listeners are more likely to tune into a show that others have already deemed worthy. That’s why ratings and reviews are so critical.

Adam explains that even a four-star rating with hundreds of reviews is more convincing than a perfect five-star rating with only a few. It’s all about numbers and social proof. So don’t shy away from asking your network for those reviews — it’s a crucial step in building credibility and attracting new listeners.

Creating Lasting Impact Through Strategic Podcast Marketing

While these are just a few tips to get you started, remember that at the end of the day podcast marketing isn’t about just creating great content and hoping for the best. It’s about being intentional, strategic, and understanding why listeners listen to your show in the first place. Adam’s strategies — like the critical pre-launch campaign, actively seeking ratings and reviews, and understanding the importance of social proof — are proven methods to help you make sure your podcast can get discovered and keep growing. But it doesn’t stop there. Consistency in your podcast marketing efforts, coupled with continuously refining your content strategy, messaging, and positioning, is what’ll keep your podcast relevant and top of mind.

Remember, your podcast isn’t supposed to be a passion project; it’s a powerful vehicle for connection, influence, and growth. By taking control of your podcast marketing from the outset, you’re not just filling up your car with fuel — you’re setting yourself up for a successful journey that goes the distance. So, whether you’re just starting out or looking to revitalize your existing show, start with these strategies to help you break through the noise and begin building a loyal following.

And if you want more free advice on launching and growing a podcast in your life, hit the follow button for Insider Secrets to a Top 100 Podcast on your favorite podcast app so you never miss a new episode.

Or if you’re thinking, “Can you do it for me?!” Yep we sure can, and we’d love help. Book a free strategy call with our team to find out if you’re a fit for PodLaunch, so we can help you launch your podcast in the Top 100 with bingeworthy content that converts your listeners to clients.

Next Up:

If this was insightful, then you won’t want to miss the next episode. We’re diving even deeper into how to trigger the podcast algorithms to get your show in the charts and lay a strong foundation for long-term growth. (Trust me, you’ll want a pen and paper for this one). Don’t miss it!