
Insider Secrets to a Top 100 Podcast with Courtney Elmer | Podcasting Strategy for Business Growth
This isn’t another “share great content and stay consistent” podcast about podcasting. We’re breaking down 15,000+ hours of study into what top hosts do differently to create bingeworthy podcasts that convert. Hosted by Forbes- and Rolling Stone-featured podcast psychology expert and Webby Awards judge Courtney Elmer—who’s helped over 70+ hosts launch Top 100 shows—you’ll get the tools and strategies other shows won’t dare to share. Expect unfiltered coaching, behind-the-scenes breakdowns, and the kind of “why didn’t anyone tell me this sooner?!” advice to help you build a podcast your future clients can’t stop bingeing (and buying from). So if you’re ready to break out of “less-than-200-download-per-episode” jail and stop settling for downloads that don’t reflect your effort—or you want to launch a podcast that positions you as an authority in your niche and drives real business growth—welcome to the podcast that’s about to change the game for you. Hit play and let’s dive in. Popular Guests Include: Jordan Harbinger, John Lee Dumas, James Cridland, Tom Rossi, Jeremy Enns, Kevin Chemidlin, Dave Jackson, Alex Sanfilippo, Seth Silvers, Stacy Tuschl, Kate Erickson, Grant Baldwin, Hal Elrod, Gay Hendricks, Brandon Lucero, James Wedmore, and more. Popular Episode Topics Include: Podcasting for Business Growth, Starting a Podcast, Podcast Audience Growth, Podcasting for Profit, Podcasting Psychology, Increasing Listener Engagement, Creating Bingeworthy Podcast Content, Lead Generation Through Podcasting, Business Podcasting, Ranking Your Podcast in The Top 100, Podcast Launch Strategy, Podcast Monetization Strategies, Podcast Messaging, Podcast Positioning
Latest episodes

Dec 11, 2024 • 17min
What’s Changing in Podcasting and How to Stay Ahead | James Cridland, Podnews
James Cridland, Editor-in-chief of Podnews and a broadcasting veteran, shares his expertise on the transformative changes in podcasting. He highlights the booming niche podcast trend and discusses how these shows are thriving in today’s market. Cridland challenges the notion that video is essential, asserting audio's primary importance. He provides insights on measuring growth beyond downloads and stresses the keys to long-term success: consistency and community engagement. Essential listening for any aspiring podcaster!

Dec 5, 2024 • 15min
The Exact SEO Keywords You Need to Get Your Podcast Found
Unlock the secrets to making your podcast shine in search results! Discover how to analyze your competitors' keyword strategies and identify the best terms to attract your ideal audience. Learn the importance of strategic keyword placement for maximum impact. Plus, explore essential tools that can help you refine your SEO approach. Get ready to boost your visibility on popular platforms like Apple and Spotify and reach new listeners every day!

Dec 4, 2024 • 14min
How to Hit the Top 5 in Apple and Spotify Search Results
Discover game-changing strategies to boost your podcast's visibility on Apple and Spotify. Learn the art of effective SEO and how to find the right keywords that attract your target audience. Uncover the secrets to ranking higher in search results and building instant credibility. Dive into the importance of adapting to listener behavior for increased downloads and monetization. Get ready to elevate your show and reach new listeners!

Nov 28, 2024 • 12min
Launching a Top Podcast in an Unlikely Niche | Laura Brazan
Worried your podcast idea is too niche, or that maybe your ideal audience doesn’t really listen to podcasts? Those might just be the signs you need to take the leap.In this episode, I’m joined by fellow podcast host Laura Brazan who launched a show in a niche that doesn’t typically listen to podcasts — and crushed it.Breaking into the Top 100 across the US, UK, and Australia, Laura shares how she turned a personal need into a movement while tackling every tech challenge along the way.If you’ve ever doubted your ability to start a podcast from scratch but believe you have a message worth building a movement around, hit play and let’s make your business bingeworthy.0:04 - Can Your Podcast Thrive in an Unlikely Niche?6:35 - How to Break into the Top 100 (Even Without a Big Audience)8:35 - How to Turn Your Podcast into a Community (Even if You’re Not Selling Anything)13:20 - Why the Tech Side of Podcasting is Easier Than You Think16:25 - The One Thing Keeping You From Getting Bigger Results with Your Podcast Episode Links:Check out Laura’s Podcast: Grandparents Raising Grandchildren → This episode was recorded on the Deity VO-7USupport the showLiked this episode? Share it with a fellow podcaster! Love this show? Say thanks by leaving a positive review.Register for Courtney's Free Podcasting Workshop: How to 10x Your Business with a Podcast in 2025Schedule a 1:1 Podcasting Audit with Courtney. Curious about PodLaunch®? Book a Demo to see if our podcasting mentorship is the right fit for your business. Connect with Courtney: Linked In | Instagram | PodLaunch HQ ©Ⓟ 2018–2025 by Courtney Elmer. All Rights Reserved.

8 snips
Nov 27, 2024 • 21min
How to Turn Your Podcast Description Into a Listener Magnet
Discover how a podcast description can lure in listeners or lead them to scroll past. Explore the psychology behind why potential audience members hesitate to press play. Learn practical strategies to transform dull descriptions into captivating hooks. Compare podcasting to bestselling books for greater insights. Uncover the secrets of creating engaging and SEO-friendly descriptions to stand out in a crowded market and connect authentically with your ideal audience.

Nov 21, 2024 • 16min
The One Thing Podcasters Should Track Instead of Downloads | Tom Rossi
If you’ve been obsessing over your podcast download numbers (or lack thereof?) this episode is for you. I’m back with Tom Rossi, co-founder of Buzzsprout, and we’re diving deep into how we should really be measuring podcast success. Spoiler: it’s not just about downloads.Tom shares why the industry’s hyper-focus on numbers can steal the joy of podcasting and the mental shift that will completely change how you measure your podcast’s success. He also drops some key stats (ever wonder how many downloads it *actually* takes to be in the top 10% of podcasts?) and reveals the one key question to ask yourself to see the true impact your podcast is making, no matter how many downloads you’re currently getting.If you’ve ever felt like quitting because your numbers aren’t where you want them to be, hit play and let’s dive in.0:48 - Why Video Isn’t the Lead Actor in Podcasting1:36 - Why Downloads Don't Tell the Whole Story3:31 - The Most Powerful Way to Stay Motivated in Podcasting6:25 - The Real Stats Behind Today's Top-Performing Podcasts10:13 - The One Question to Ask Before You Quit Podcasting Episode Links:Buzzsprout.com/statsNew to podcasting? As a bonus for our listeners, you can get a $20 Buzzsprout credit when you sign up through this link, thanks to Tom and the team over at Buzzsprout. → This episode was recorded on the Deity VO-7USupport the showLiked this episode? Share it with a fellow podcaster! Love this show? Say thanks by leaving a positive review.Register for Courtney's Free Podcasting Workshop: How to 10x Your Business with a Podcast in 2025Schedule a 1:1 Podcasting Audit with Courtney. Curious about PodLaunch®? Book a Demo to see if our podcasting mentorship is the right fit for your business. Connect with Courtney: Linked In | Instagram | PodLaunch HQ ©Ⓟ 2018–2025 by Courtney Elmer. All Rights Reserved.

Nov 20, 2024 • 18min
Why Audio-Only Podcasting Still Dominates | Tom Rossi
Tom Rossi, co-founder of Buzzsprout, dives into the essential strengths of audio-only podcasting. He discusses how audio fosters deeper connections with listeners, and why the stress of video production isn't worth it for most creators. Tom emphasizes that staying true to one's podcasting goals is crucial and that audio can offer authentic self-expression without the constraints of video. He also shares tips on leveraging video without sacrificing the essence of audio, guiding podcasters to reassess what success truly means in this evolving landscape.

12 snips
Nov 14, 2024 • 20min
The Right and Wrong Way to Start Using YouTube for Your Podcast | Erika Vieira
In this chat, YouTube strategist Erika Vieira shares her expertise on optimizing video content for podcasters. She highlights the biggest mistake podcasters make when utilizing YouTube, stressing the need for original content instead of merely reposting audio. Erika explains how YouTube's unique dynamics require tailored strategies for engagement and reveals the key differences between podcast and YouTube content. Plus, she provides insights on using analytics to enhance viewer retention and overall performance!

5 snips
Nov 13, 2024 • 14min
The Real Pros and Cons of Podcasting on YouTube | Erika Vieira
In this enlightening discussion, Erika Vieira, a coach renowned for guiding thousands of business owners and podcasters to fruitful YouTube channels, shares her expertise. She explores why YouTube's immense user base can boost your podcast's visibility. However, transitioning to video isn't a walk in the park. Erika candidly discusses the challenges and hidden downsides of video podcasting, emphasizing that success on YouTube requires serious commitment and strategy. It's an essential listen for anyone considering expanding their podcast onto this platform!

Nov 7, 2024 • 21min
Q + A | How Often Should You Really Be Releasing Episodes?
Is once a week enough for your podcast? Find out how to create a release schedule that suits your goals without burning out. Explore the real impact of consistency on listener retention and how it fosters trust. Learn whether cranking out more episodes actually means more downloads. Discover key questions to build a schedule that aligns with your unique bandwidth and keeps the audience engaged. Treating podcasting like a long-term commitment is crucial for success and sustainable growth!