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What if the secret to getting more podcast listeners wasn’t about going viral on Instagram… but about mastering a platform most people are totally underestimating?
You’ve heard me talk about Pinterest before; how it’s not just a place for vision boards and recipes, but a powerful, long-game tool for traffic and visibility. But what does that actually look like when you’re a podcaster, starting from scratch, juggling multiple businesses, and carving out time between nap schedules?
That’s exactly what we’re diving into today in this special coaching session with Megan Kennedy: wellness entrepreneur, holistic nutritionist, and mom of three boys. She’s the founder of Natural Vibe Wellness Market, Vibe Smoothie Bar, The Well Room, and Newfoundland Fermentary… and somehow, she’s also hosting a podcast called Wellness Uncomplicated!
Ultimately, her mission is to help women pursue health in a way that feels simple, sustainable, and actually doable. Megan came to me with the most thoughtful, powerhouse list of questions on how to grow a brand-new podcast, and how to do it smartly when time, energy, and resources are limited.
If you’re a podcaster, content creator, or multi-passionate entrepreneur wondering how to show up consistently without burning out, this episode is for you.
And if this coaching session gets your wheels turning on starting your own podcast, take my free class “Podcasting 101: How to Start, Record, and Profit from Your Show”!
In it, you’ll learn how to start, record, and profit from your podcast in just THREE easy steps.
Click here to sign up for the FREE podcasting class!
Now let’s dive into my coaching session with Megan Kennedy!
What Actually Moved the Needle Early On for the Goal Digger Podcast
Looking back, the biggest needle-movers weren’t about fancy marketing tricks. They were about connection, strategy, and showing up with consistency.
One of the smartest things I did early on was inviting other creators onto the podcast and doing guest swaps. I didn’t chase big names, just people with loyal audiences who were known in their niche.
It helped me tap into aligned listeners who already trusted my guests… and when those guests shared the episode, it created immediate exposure.
I also leaned into Pinterest and email to support discoverability. Most people focus so hard on launch week that they forget about longevity. But Pinterest? It’s a search engine. It keeps your content discoverable long after the hype dies down.
The same goes for your email list. And finally, being consistent without fail built trust. People knew when to expect new episodes, and that predictability fostered loyalty.
What I Would Focus on to Market My Podcast With Only a Few Hours a Week
If I only had two hours a week to market a podcast, I’d get ruthlessly focused. First, I’d batch record a few episodes at once so I’m not constantly switching gears.
Then, I’d take just one or two platforms (like Pinterest and email) and promote the heck out of each episode in a way that felt aligned and authentic.
Too many creators spend all their time creating, but barely any time promoting. I’d flip that ratio. One podcast episode can be turned into so many different pieces of content: quotes, reels, captions, stories.
Don’t reinvent the wheel each week. Repurpose what you’ve already made so you’re working smarter, not harder.
Should You Lead With Your Face and Story, or Focus on the Business?
When Megan asked me this question, I didn’t hesitate for a moment when I told her to lead with your face and your story, because people connect with people.
Your brand is important, but your story is what gets people in the door. I always recommend sharing relatable moments, like a customer question, a personal breakthrough, or a product you’re loving.
That’s covert marketing in action. You’re talking about your store or your offer in a way that feels organic and helpful, not salesy!
You don’t have to overshare, but the details that reinforce your mission? They matter. Be the relatable expert, not the bestie who shares every behind-the-scenes detail.
How To Turn Listeners Into a Real Community
A podcast is a beautiful starting point, but if you want to build a community, you need to invite people into a two-way conversation. That could be a Facebook group (like the Goal Digger Podcast Insiders!), an email list, or even a prompt at the end of each episode.
Asking your listeners to tag you, share their thoughts, or join a space where they can talk back is a great way to build community!
Highlight them, too. Share their wins, questions, or even just shout out a DM you received. When your audience feels seen, they’re more likely to stick around—and bring others with them.
How To Know If Your Podcast Is Working Early On
You don’t need massive numbers to know your podcast is working. Look for small but meaningful engagement. Are people messaging you about specific episodes? Are they replying to your emails? Are you getting consistent downloads from repeat listeners?
Vanity metrics aren’t the whole story. Instead of panicking if things aren’t skyrocketing, reflect on your niche, your titles, your content. Are you clear? Are you consistent?
The beautiful thing about podcasting is that episodes live on. You may not see instant feedback, but over time, your work compounds. Tie your podcast to something that matters to you—a mission, a message, a legacy—so that even when growth feels slow, your purpose pulls you forward.
If you’re ready to start and launch your podcast, save your seat for my free class here!
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