I’m thinking of starting a podcast….
New Podcast | Interior Design Education | DCI Studio
I have been a guest on a number of podcasts, and I also listen to some very prolific people on this platform. I am seriously considering starting a podcast of my own and have done a deeper dive on the benefits that I will share with you.
A podcast can be a powerful way to extend your brand, connect you as an individual with views, or as a thought leader, with a wider audience. This platform will allow you to share your expertise in design and beyond.
MY TOP THREE REASONS FOR STARTING A PODCAST
First - Building Authority and Trust
People want to work with those they know and trust. A podcast will allow me to share my expertise, tell stories from the design world, and invite talented artisans, educators, and industry colleagues. This platform will allow listeners to feel like they know me personally, which is the foundation of a strong client or coaching relationship.
Second - Podcasts Create Deeper Connections
Unlike stand-alone posts or ads, a podcast allows listeners to hear your voice, your passion, and your personality. It’s an authentic way to connect, and those connections are what lead to lasting impact-whether that’s with clients, collaborators, or students.
Third - Reach Potential: Podcast Content Works Harder
One podcast episode can be repurposed across so many platforms. From transcripts to blog posts, video snippets, and social media highlights, each conversation becomes a multi-layered resource that reaches people in different ways.
For me, the pivotal benefits of hosting a podcast are the ability to touch other design professionals, artisans, educators, or clients by creating deeper conversations. This elevates not only your platform but also the community you’re passionate about.
Here are some tried and true strategies to build an Audience and find interesting guests -
Building Your Audience:
Consistency is key You have to set a schedule and stick to it. Release episodes on a regular schedule so your listeners know what to expect.
Leverage your existing platforms Share episodes on Instagram, LinkedIn, and your newsletter. Create little “teasers” or clips to spark curiosity.
Engage with your community Ask your listeners for questions and invite them to vote on your suggested topics – or others that they would like to learn more about. Doing this brings them into the process, fosters a sense of belonging, and builds loyalty.
Cross-promotion. Collaboration is key. Sharing magnifies your reach and allows you to impact others in design and adjacent industries. Share each other’s episodes to tap into new audiences.
So now you may be wondering, how do you find your guests? Start with your circle. Reach out to your colleagues, makers and artisans, your trusted vendors. Collaborators you already know can provide rich and authentic conversations.
You can also look outside of our world of design and invite experts in related fields—wellness, sustainability, entrepreneurship; whose perspectives enrich design conversations. I also really get inspired by the idea of inviting up-and-coming makers or thought leaders. These people can bring fresh energy and will eagerly share the episode with their networks. Lastly, be sure to create balance. While well-known guests will attract people, do not overlook the hidden gems. Sometimes they are people who can tell the most amazing stories, give the best advice and create the most memorable episodes for your podcast.
A podcast can become a terrific lead-generation tool, where you can promote events, and share insights from your business. It’s also just fun and a time to connect with another human or group of humans on a more meaningful level. Here you have the freedom to tell stories, share design journeys, and inspire in a more relaxed, authentic way, than we do with formal writing or presentations.