Podcast
Podcast Cafe: Insights from Podcasters for Podcasters
Hosted by Hayleigh Hayhurst, Podcast Producer & Strategist · EN
Welcome to the Podcast Café, where we serve up everything you need to know about podcasting—from tips to strategies, for podcasters by podcasters. Hosted by Hayleigh Hayhurst, founder of Espresso Podcast Production, this show covers the art and science of podcasting in a fun, relatable way from podcasters for podcasters. Join our community of creators and let’s make podcasting something you love—and that works for you. Learn more at espressopodcastproduction.com.
40episodes
Episodes
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73. The Podcast Launch Blueprint: How Tracy Reached Top Rankings in Under 2 Weeks
Feb 600:36:01Tap to summarizeWhat does it take to launch a podcast and reach the top 5% within just 12 days? Tracy Beaver, host of Create Online Business Success, shares her exact pre-launch strategy, why she waited years to start (and what finally pushed her to launch), and how organic marketing beats paid ads every single time.Whether you're thinking about starting a podcast, growing your online business, or wondering if Facebook is still relevant—this conversation is packed with honest insights, actionable strategies, and a few laughs along the way.In This Episode, We Discuss:Tracy's pre-launch strategy that led to top rankings on Apple PodcastsWhy tech fears held her back from podcasting (and how she finally got started)The truth about paid ads vs. organic marketing for online entrepreneursHow to create content that speaks to multiple industriesWhy consistency and patience are the "wonder twins" of business successFacebook strategies that still work (yes, really!)The biggest lesson podcasting taught Tracy about perfectionismAbout Tracy Beaver:Tracy Beaver helps online entrepreneurs—coaches, course creators, and service providers—grow their businesses using organic visibility and list growth strategies. With 6+ years in the online space and a background in corporate sales, Tracy launched Create Online Business Success in July 2024 and quickly climbed to the top 5% of podcasts on Listen Notes.Connect with Tracy:Podcast: Create Online Business Successhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/1029969944188688Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:Apply to work with us: https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/6521a4cc8fdeed003a859a44Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/checklistWebsite: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProductionMy favorite podcast tool, Descript: https://www.descript.com/?lmref=KkInCQProduced by Espresso Podcast Production: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com
Transcribe →72. Is Podcasting for Business Still Worth It in 2026? Real Data
Jan 2200:08:45Tap to summarize“Is podcasting dead?”It’s a question I’ve been getting a lot lately, especially after Jenna Kutcher announced she’s stepping away from her podcast.In this solo episode, I’m breaking down what’s actually happening in podcasting in 2026 using real industry patterns, listener behavior, and what I see every day working behind the scenes with podcasts that convert (and ones that quietly disappear).This isn’t a hot take.And it’s definitely not fear-based marketing.It’s a grounded look at why podcasting isn’t dead, but why the way people approach podcasting has changed.in this episode, we talk about:Why the “is podcasting dead?” conversation keeps coming upThe long-standing stat about most podcasts ending after 10–20 episodesHow listener behavior has shifted toward fewer, more trusted showsWhy big creators stepping away doesn’t mean podcasting failedWhat actually works in podcasting in 2026The one question every podcaster should be able to answerConnect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:Apply to work with us: https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/6521a4cc8fdeed003a859a44Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/checklistWebsite: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProductionMy favorite podcast tool, Descript: https://www.descript.com/?lmref=KkInCQProduced by Espresso Podcast Production: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com
Transcribe →71. How Pinterest Gives Your Podcast Long-Term Visibility (Without Daily Posting) with Dana Bahr
Jan 1500:29:17Tap to summarizeIs your podcast collecting digital dust?In this episode of I’m joined by Dana Bahr, host of The Unapologetic Pinner Podcast, to talk about how Pinterest can extend the life of your podcast episodes and help your content stay discoverable for months (and even years).Dana shares why she chose a short-form podcast format, how she uses Pinterest as a long-term visibility strategy instead of a viral one, and the concept she calls “digital dust”—the content you’ve already created that’s still valuable but buried by fast-moving platforms.In this episode, we cover:Why Dana launched a 10-minute-or-less podcast (and why it works)What “digital dust” is and how Pinterest brings old content back to lifeHow Pinterest differs from social media platforms like InstagramHow many pins you can realistically create per podcast episodeThe lifespan of a Pinterest pin (and why it matters for podcasters)Evergreen vs. trending content and how to balance bothCommon Pinterest myths (no, it’s not just for recipes and bloggers)How Pinterest drives listeners directly to podcasts, offers, and lead magnetsWhy long-term visibility beats short-term promotionThe smartest way to link podcast episodes without triggering spam flagsConnect with Dana:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danas.desk.ncPodcast: The Unapologetic Pinner PodcastConnect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:Apply to work with us: https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/6521a4cc8fdeed003a859a44Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/checklistWebsite: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProductionMy favorite podcast tool, Descript: https://www.descript.com/?lmref=KkInCQProduced by Espresso Podcast Production: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com
Transcribe →70. Why You Don’t Need More Downloads to Make Money From Your Podcast
Jan 1400:13:24Tap to summarizeYour podcast doesn’t need more downloads, it needs direction.PS - I got a new mic.. very exciting I hope you enjoy! Okay, back to the show notes.. you could have 10 listeners or 1 million, but if you’re not telling people where to go next, your podcast won’t convert listeners into clients. In this Espresso Shot episode of Podcast Café, we’re breaking down exactly how to turn your podcast into a client-generating tool — without being salesy or pushy.This episode dives into why downloads and followers are vanity metrics, what actually drives conversions, and how to build a simple podcast funnel that works whether your show is attracting brand-new listeners or nurturing people who already know you.You’ll learn:Why who is listening matters more than how many people are listeningThe difference between top-of-funnel and middle-of-funnel podcastsWhat a podcast funnel actually is — and how to build oneWhy listeners won’t take the next step unless you tell them where to goHow to convert even a small audience into paying clientsWhy consistency (not instant results) is the real secret to podcast growthIf your podcast is meant to support your business — not just exist for fun — this episode covers the foundational strategy you need to stop leaving money on the table and start using your podcast with intention.If you’re not sure whether your podcast is top of funnel or middle of funnel, send me a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn and I’ll help you figure it out.Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:Apply to work with us: https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/6521a4cc8fdeed003a859a44Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/checklistWebsite: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProductionMy favorite podcast tool, Descript: https://www.descript.com/?lmref=KkInCQProduced by Espresso Podcast Production: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com
Transcribe →69. Podcasting as Advocacy: Sex Education, Reproductive Rights, and Education with Holly Eckelberge, Meet Me at the Spot
Jan 800:47:57Tap to summarizeIf you’ve ever thought “Who cares what I have to say?”—this episode will change how you think about your voice, your message, and why your podcast matters.In this episode I’m sitting down with Holly Eckelberge, a sexual educator, curriculum designer, and reproductive justice advocate (with 15+ years of experience) and the host of Meet Me at the Spot—a podcast making sex education and reproductive justice feel approachable, real, and empowering.We talk about what finally got her to launch after years of getting in her own way, how her show evolved from solo episodes to interviews, and why she’s committed to staying solutions-oriented—even when the news feels heavy. Plus, Holly shares the surprising ways podcasting impacted her confidence, her community, and even her own family.Whether you’re a podcaster, an advocate, or someone craving deeper, more honest conversations, this episode is a reminder that your voice matters—and community changes everything.In this episode, we cover:Why Holly started Meet Me at the Spot (and who it’s for)TikTok vs. podcasting: why long-form conversations matterHow Holly keeps episodes uplifting while still talking about hard realities“We’re louder together”: building community through the podcastGuest strategy + how podcast connections create ripple effectsA powerful family moment Holly shared on the showConnect with Holly: https://www.thatsexeducator.com Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:Apply to work with us: https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/6521a4cc8fdeed003a859a44Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/checklistWebsite: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProductionMy favorite podcast tool, Descript: https://www.descript.com/?lmref=KkInCQProduced by Espresso Podcast Production: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com
Transcribe →68. Consistency Is the Real Podcast Growth Strategy (A 2026 Challenge)
Jan 700:13:27Tap to summarizeJanuary is when everyone feels inspired to finally launch a podcast, revive an old one, or commit to being “the next big podcaster.” And honestly? I love that energy. After seven years as a podcast producer, this is one of my favorite times of year.But here’s the truth I see every single year: that motivation fades.People launch and stop after a few episodes. Others talk about starting and never hit record. And the podcasts that actuallylast—the ones that grow, build audiences, and create real impact—have one thing in common:Consistency.In this short Espresso Shot episode, we’re talking about what consistency really means (and what it doesn’t), why most podcasts never make it past 10 episodes, and how small, sustainable commitments beat overcommitting every single time.I’m also inviting you into a 2026 consistency challenge—one I’m doing right alongside you—with quarterly check-ins throughout the year to help you stay aligned, supported, and actually moving forward.This isn’t about doing more.It’s about doing what matters—and doing it repeatedly.Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:Apply to work with us: https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/6521a4cc8fdeed003a859a44Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/checklistWebsite: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProductionMy favorite podcast tool, Descript: https://www.descript.com/?lmref=KkInCQProduced by Espresso Podcast Production: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com
Transcribe →67. Podcast SEO That Works: Show Notes, Blogs, and Backlinks with Kara, Host of The Kara Report
Dec 1800:34:13Tap to summarizePodcast SEO sometimes seems like a mysterious thing.. and today, were talking all about it. Kara from The Kara Report breaks down how podcasting fits into an SEO-first marketing strategy, without turning your business into a constant content machine. She shares how she went from destination wedding planning to building an agency offering done-for-you blogging and PR services, and why she launched her podcast in January 2024 to create deeper business conversations beyond Instagram.You’ll hear what shifted after the podcast launched, including how her website traffic tripled year-over-year and why she credits consistent weekly content, show note links, and keyword-focused blog posts for the growth. This episode is for business owners and podcasters who want more traction from the content they’re already creating—without chasing “fast win” marketing trends.In this episode:Website traffic can grow significantly when podcast episodes are paired with show notes, blog posts, and consistent publishing.Solo episodes often build stronger host connection and can be more impactful for your business than interviews alone.A simple Pinterest rhythm: create ~5 pins per episode, schedule them across the week, and rotate them onto multiple boards over time.Pinterest data can reveal which “angles” perform best—insights you can apply to other platforms too.A private podcast can be a high-converting opt-in that helps leads binge your process and get warmed up fast.Connect with Kara:Website: https://thekarareport.com Podcast: https://thekarareport.com/podcast Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:Apply to work with us: https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/6521a4cc8fdeed003a859a44 Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/checklist Website: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction My favorite podcast tool, Descript: https://www.descript.com/?lmref=KkInCQ Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com
Transcribe →12. Writing That Gets Noticed—And How Podcasting Can Help with Estelle Erasmus, Freelance Writing Direct
Feb 18, 202500:45:56Tap to summarizeIf you're an aspiring writer, journalist, or author, podcasting could be the secret ingredient to expanding your reach, building authority, and connecting with your audience. In this episode of I sit down with my client - award-winning writer, editor, and podcast host - Estelle Erasmus to dive into the intersection of writing, publishing, and podcasting.Estelle is the host of Freelance Writing Direct and author of Writing That Gets Noticed, an acclaimed book that has helped countless writers get published. With a career spanning 30 years in publishing, Estelle shares her journey from journalism to podcasting, the power of networking, and how she integrates her podcast into her brand and teaching.In this episode: The evolution of the publishing industry and how Estelle pivoted into podcasting Why podcasting is a powerful tool for writers and authors The importance of networking and leveraging connections to grow your podcast Estelle's approach to promoting her podcast The impact of video podcasting and why showing up on camera matters Estelle’s approach to solo coaching episodes and how they’ve helped her business Advice for new podcasters on starting, growing, and outsourcingConnect with Estelle:Freelance Writing Direct: https://estelleserasmus.com/podcast/Website: https://estelleserasmus.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/EstelleSErasmusWriting That Gets Noticed: https://estelleserasmus.com/books/writing-that-gets-noticed/All Links: https://linktr.ee/EstErasConnect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/checklistWebsite: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProductionProduced by Espresso Podcast Production: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/
Transcribe →11. Podcast Guesting & Hosting: The Ultimate Strategy to Grow Your Audience with Julie Fry, Your Expert Guest
Feb 7, 202500:39:02Tap to summarizeAre you ready to grow your podcast and business through the power of podcast guesting? In this episode, we dive into the world of guest appearances with Julie Fry, owner ofYour Expert Guest. Julie shares expert advice on how to become a guest on podcasts, build lasting relationships, and expand your audience. Whether you're a podcast host or just starting out, this conversation is packed with actionable tips to elevate your visibility and authority.In this episode:The benefits of being a guest on other podcasts and how it helps grow your own showJulie's journey from running a networking organization to becoming a podcast guest expertHow to create meaningful connections and turn them into referral opportunitiesKey steps to deliver an impactful interview and craft a compelling call to actionTips on finding and pitching podcasts that align with your expertiseWays to repurpose guest appearances for content marketing and ongoing promotionMindset shifts to help overcome hesitation when pitching yourself as a guestConnect with Julie:Your Expert Guest:https://yourexpertguest.comConnect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free:https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/checklistWebsite:https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProductionProduced by Espresso Podcast Production:https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/
Transcribe →10. The Secret to Podcast Growth: Work On It, Not In It
Feb 4, 202500:19:11Tap to summarizeFeeling stuck in the day-to-day grind of producing your podcast without seeing growth? You're not alone. In this episode of the Podcast Café, I dive into the key difference between working in your podcast (managing the nitty-gritty tasks) and working on your podcast (developing strategy and growth). I break down the signs that you might be stuck and share actionable steps to help you shift your focus to tasks that truly move the needle. Book a free 30 minute call with me here: https://hello.dubsado.com:443/public/appointment-scheduler/6521a4cc8fdeed003a859a60/schedule In this episode: The difference between working in vs. working on your podcast. Signs you're stuck working in your podcast (e.g., missing deadlines, feeling overwhelmed or burnt out, and lack of consistency). Why outsourcing certain tasks (editing, show notes, graphics) can free up your time and energy. How to set long-term goals and align your podcast with your business strategy. Tips for planning your podcast content around business launches, marketing, and partnerships. Trends in podcasting, including video content, repurposing episodes, and collaboration opportunities. Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst: Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/checklist Website: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/
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