Local Newsletter Insider The Playbook for Local Podcast Growth
Sep 5, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Paul Gewuerz, founder of LocalPod and expert in transforming written stories into captivating audio, shares innovative strategies to elevate local journalism. He introduces the 'news blast' format, combining short 8–12 minute podcasts with quick ad breaks. Paul emphasizes the power of AI-driven production and geo-targeted audio ads, which can effectively reach local audiences. With insights on adapting legacy media and the importance of modernizing newsletters, he offers a roadmap for thriving in the evolving local media landscape.
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From Beer Distributor To Local Audio Founder
- Paul described leaving a corporate job to narrate audiobooks and then pivoting into podcasts for local publishers.
- He built LocalPod by converting written local stories to audio and offering editing, distribution, and monetization services.
Ship Short Daily News Blasts
- Produce a short daily 'news blast' of 8–12 minutes with 2–3 stories and ad breaks to build listening habit.
- Keep episodes bite-sized so they fit commutes, workouts, or dog walks and encourage routine consumption.
Grow With Geo-Targeted Audio Ads
- Use geo-targeted audio ads (via platforms like AudioGo) to place 30-second promos inside top podcasts and music apps by ZIP code.
- Targeting audio listeners in your area accelerates discovery far better than generic social ads.