Podcast Cafe: How to Grow a Successful Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

Holding space for your podcast guests is a skill every podcaster needs to have! This week I am bringing in my client, and expert on this topic, Lisa Cooper Ellison, about how she holds space for her guests week after week. 

Lisa Cooper Ellison, a trauma-informed writing coach and host of the Writing Your Resilience podcast. She shares how she creates a space for vulnerability and connection with her guests and audience. Whether you’re a podcaster, writer, or someone curious about the intersection of storytelling and healing, this episode is packed with actionable insights.

Lisa and I have been working together since the launch of her podcast! 

In this episode: Lisa’s journey from trauma therapy to podcasting and writing coaching. The importance of holding space for guests and allowing vulnerability during interviews. Practical tips for navigating emotionally intense topics on your podcast. How Lisa markets her show and engages with her community to foster meaningful conversations. The role of mindfulness and reflective listening in creating impactful interviews. Lisa’s strategies for growing her podcast and balancing authenticity with marketing.

Connect with Lisa: Website: https://lisacooperellison.com Podcast: https://lisacooperellison.com/writing-your-resilience-podcast/

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/

Curious about the legal side of podcasting? In this episode, I’m joined by Gordon Firemark, The Podcast Lawyer, to explore how to protect your podcast and navigate things like trademarks, guest releases, and more. 

Gordon brings over 16 years of podcasting experience and 30+ years as an entertainment lawyer to the table. Together, we discuss how podcasters can protect their content, avoid legal pitfalls, and create a strong foundation for their shows.

From trademarks and guest releases to navigating tricky copyright issues, this conversation is packed with actionable insights and expert advice for podcasters at every stage of their journey.

In this episode:

• The importance of trademarks for podcast branding.
• Why having a guest release form is essential for your show.
• How to avoid common copyright and trademark violations.
• Tips for navigating co-hosting and partnership agreements (aka podcast prenups).
• Gordon’s insights into the evolution of podcasting over 16 years.
• How to make your podcast accessible with transcripts and why it matters.

Connect with Gordon:

• Gordon Firemark’s Website: https://www.gordonfiremark.com
• Legit Podcast Pro Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/legit-podcast-pro/id1661249335
• PodcastRelease.com – Free guest release template.
• Entertainment Law Update Podcast: https://www.entertainmentlawupdate.com

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/

Here’s the truth - a lot of podcasts are inauthentic. If you want to show up as who you are and connect with your audience more, this episode is for you!

 In this episode, I chat with my friend, Alisha Kumar, host of Here for a Good Time, to talk all things podcasting! From finding the courage to launch her show to balancing podcasting with her other ventures, Alisha shares her journey of creating a podcast that’s raw, humorous, and undeniably authentic.

Alisha dives into her strategies for showing up authentically on her podcast, creating a human connection with her audience, and building a brand that resonates. She also shares her experiences navigating cultural expectations, outsourcing strategically to manage her workload, and marketing her show using creative techniques like PR packages and leveraging Instagram and Pinterest.

Whether you're a podcaster or aspiring to start your own show, Alicia's advice will inspire you to take action and embrace your unique voice.

In this episode:

• Why authenticity is key to connecting with your audience.
• How Alisha overcame cultural and personal fears to launch her podcast.
• Alisha’s creative approach to marketing her podcast, including PR packages and Pinterest.
• Tips for outsourcing podcast tasks and staying consistent.
• The importance of trademarking and legal work in podcasting.

Connect with Alisha:

Here For A Good Time Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-for-a-good-time-podcast/id1673553517

Alisha’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alishakumar/

The Social Project Website (for all your marketing needs): https://thesocialproject.ca

Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goodtimemediaco/

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/

As a podcast manager and entrepreneur, I’m always looking for ways to grow my business and help my clients scale theirs. That’s why I attended Alex and Leila Hormozi’s Scaling Workshop in Las Vegas, and wow—this event did not disappoint!

In this episode, I’m sharing my biggest takeaways from the workshop and how they relate to podcasting, business growth, and creating a scalable strategy. 

In this episode:

• Why being in the right room matters and how it can shift your mindset as an entrepreneur.
• Single-Channel Risk: What it is, why it’s dangerous, and how podcasting can help mitigate it.
• Outsourcing and Scaling: Leila Hormozi’s advice on letting go of control to unlock growth.
• Podcast Ads: The hidden gem in scaling your brand and reaching your audience.
• Building Trust: How to use your podcast to consistently nurture leads and convert listeners into clients.

Whether you’re a podcaster, an entrepreneur, or both, this episode is packed with insights to help you scale smarter. Let’s dive into what I learned and how I’m putting it into action as the owner of Espresso Podcast Production.

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/

Let’s talk podcasting! In this episode, I chat with memoirist, teacher, and podcaster Ronit Plank. As the creator of the Let’s Talk Memoir podcast, Ronit shares her journey into podcasting, what inspired her niche podcast, and how she has grown her show into a rich resource for writers, memoir enthusiasts, and creative professionals. From managing a busy schedule to marketing her podcast effectively, Ronit provides invaluable insights and advice for aspiring podcasters and storytellers.

Ronit Plank's podcasts include Let's Talk Memoir, And Then Everything Changed, and The Body Myth. Her writing has been widely published including in The Atlantic, The New York Times, Poets & Writers, The Washington Post, Hippocampus, The Rumpus, and Writer's Digest. Kirkus Reviews calls her memoir WHEN SHE COMES BACK, “An intimate, intuitive, emotionally vivid family account that finds hope in reconciliation" and her short story collection HOME IS A MADE-UP PLACE won Hidden River Arts’ Eludia Award and the 2023 Page Turner Awards for Short Stories. She is Creative Nonfiction Editor at The Citron Review, teaches memoir independently and as a guest lecturer, and lives in Seattle with her family of people and dogs.

In this episode:

• How Ronit’s early experiences with podcasting shaped her approach to Let’s Talk Memoir.
• The benefits of hosting a niche podcast and building a highly engaged audience.
• Ronit’s strategies for balancing podcast production, teaching, and her creative pursuits.
• Tips on promoting your podcast, fostering community, and avoiding burnout.
• Ronit’s approach to promoting episodes across platforms, from Instagram to Substack, and why posting consistently matters.
• Batch Recording: How Ronit uses batch recording to streamline her podcast production and maintain consistency.
• Niche Power: Why a focused podcast like Let’s Talk Memoir creates opportunities for networking, guest collaboration, and professional growth.

Podcast Conferences mentioned:

She Podcasts

PodFest

Connect with Ronit:

-More about Ronit: https://ronitplank.com

-Ronit's memoir: https://ronitplank.com/when-she-comes-back/

-Sign up for monthly podcast and writing updates: https://bit.ly/33nyTKd

-Substack: https://substack.com/@ronitplank

Follow Ronit:

https://www.instagram.com/ronitplank/

https://twitter.com/RonitPlank

https://www.facebook.com/RonitPlank

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/

What does it mean to be more than a label? Fiorella Lopez Lima, host of Not Your Spicy Latina, joins me to talk about breaking barriers, redefining Latina identity, and empowering women to own their stories and careers through her podcast.

Fiorella is an immigrant, first-generation Latina, and Certified Professional Coach. As the Founder of Latinas Ahead, she is dedicated to providing culturally sensitive career coaching that empowers Latinas to build self-worth and confidence. She guides them to embrace their inner strength, show up authentically, and discover their superpowers so they can thrive in their careers as the talented, multifaceted, and fearless individuals they are.

Through her podcast, Not Your Spicy Latina, she amplifies the voices of inspiring Latinas, creating a safe space to share their stories, break down stereotypes, and honor the rich diversity and depth of Latina experiences.

In this episode:

• The inspiration behind Not Your Spicy Latina and how Fio created a platform for Latinas to share their stories.
• Why representation and community-building are crucial for breaking stereotypes and fostering empowerment.
• How Fio intertwines her podcast with her coaching business to attract and connect with her ideal clients.
• Her process for planning impactful episodes and making guests feel comfortable sharing their authentic stories.
• Tips for starting a podcast and letting your personality shine through.

Connect with Fiorella:

Website: https://www.fiorellalopez.com/

Email: info@fiorellalopez.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fiorellalopez90/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/latinasahead/

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@fiorellalopezlima

Free Career Coaching Discovery Call: https://calendly.com/info-71xn/discovery-call-individual

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@notyourspicylatinapod

Instagram (Not Your Spicy Latina): https://www.instagram.com/notyourspicylatinapod/

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/

Have you ever wanted to ditch social media, but are not sure how you will grow your business if you do? Well — let me tell you. Amelia Hruby has the answers!

Amelia Hruby is a writer, educator and podcaster with a PhD in philosophy from DePaul University. Over the past decade, she’s been a university professor, a community organizer, and a radio DJ. Now, she is the founder and executive producer of Softer Sounds, a feminist podcast studio that supports women and nonbinary business owners in creating purposeful, powerful podcasts. Since leaving social media in April 2021, she’s also launched Off the Grid, a podcast about leaving social media without losing all your clients. On the show she interviews business leaders and former influencers, and shares stories, strategies and experiments for growing your business with radical generosity and energetic sovereignty.

Amelia shares her unique journey, actionable strategies, and lessons learned from stepping away from social media and leaning into authentic connection and marketing alternatives for podcasters!

In this episode:

• How Amelia transitioned away from social media and built a successful podcast and business.
• Why being intentional with your marketing and finding resonance is more impactful than relying on social media.
• The difference between promoting your podcast and marketing your podcast—and why you need both.
• Practical strategies for growing your podcast audience, one listener at a time.
• Why listening to your own podcast is essential for growth and connection.

Connect with Amelia:

https://www.softersounds.studio/

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/

Here's why... Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just getting started, podcasting is the ultimate tool for connecting with your audience, building trust, and amplifying your voice.

We’re talking real strategies, practical examples, and actionable tips to help you understand why podcasting is the long-form content you need to cut down on marketing time and grow your business.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why podcasting is the most repurposeable content format (seriously, one episode = dozens of touchpoints).
• How to tailor your podcast goals to fit your unique business—whether you’re a coach, writer, or even a real estate agent.
• Why podcasting builds trust and authority in a way no other platform can.
• The importance of defining what success looks like for your podcast and how it connects to your business goals.
• Tips for starting your podcast or testing the waters with guest appearances.

Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:

Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklist⁠

Website: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠

YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction⁠

Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/⁠

TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@espressopodproduction⁠

Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/

Welcome to the very first episode of Podcast Café! ☕🎙️ I’m Hayleigh Hayhurst, founder of Espresso Podcast Production, and I’m so pumped to have you here. This podcast is all about creating a space where podcasters—whether you’re just starting out or already deep in the game—can learn, grow, and have some fun along the way.

In this episode, I’m spilling the beans (pun intended 😉) on:

• The story behind Podcast Café and how I got into podcasting
• Why podcast strategy is the secret to turning your show into a marketing powerhouse for your business.
• The common challenges podcasters face—and how I’ve helped hundreds of creators overcome them.
• Why podcasting isn’t a “get-rich-quick” scheme but can seriously transform your brand when done right.

I also dive into the 8 rapid-fire questions I’ll be asking all my guests—spoiler alert: I share my favorite coffee order (hazelnut latte, all day, every day), my podcast pet peeves, and my dream guests (looking at you, Leila Hormozi 👀).

You'll walk away with:

• Why starting your podcast sooner, not later, is the key to success.
• How to connect your podcast to your business goals without feeling salesy.
• A glimpse into the vibes of Podcast Café—real talk, actionable tips, and good conversations.

Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:

Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklist

Website: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@espressopodproduction

Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/

Welcome to the Podcast Café, where we’re serving up everything you need to know about podcasting—from tips, stories, and strategies from podcasters, for podcasters. Hosted by Hayleigh Hayhurst, founder of Espresso Podcast Production, a full-service podcast agency specializing in editing, marketing, and strategy for businesses ready to grow through podcasting.

Whether you’re just starting to think about podcasting or looking to take your show to the next level, this is your space. Each episode is like a personal coffee chat, breaking down the art and science of podcasting in a way that’s fun, relatable, and actionable.

At Podcast Café, we go beyond the mic. You’ll hear real stories, practical tips, and insights from industry experts who’ve been exactly where you are now. We’ll cover everything from the basics to in-depth strategies successful podcasters use to stand out in their niche.

Podcasting is a journey, and at the Podcast Café, we’re here to make sure you’re fueled and inspired every step of the way. Join a community of creators eager to grow, connect, and make podcasting a powerful tool for their businesses.

Grab your coffee, get comfortable, and hit subscribe. Together, let’s make podcasting something you love—and something that works for you.

Connect with us:

Website: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/

Want to start your own podcast? Download our Podcast Launch Checklist for free now!  https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/checklist