In today’s Podcast Tips with Rob Greenlee – Episode 52, we’re diving into the art of storytelling—but with a refreshing twist. What happens when you ditch the visuals and focus entirely on your words? That’s precisely what we’ll explore as we uncover how going back to storytelling basics can help you connect with your audience on a deeper level.
Many creators risk putting style over substance in an era dominated by flashy graphics and attention-grabbing visuals. Imagine crafting your narrative without a camera, fancy graphics, or slideshow. What’s left is your most valuable storytelling tool—your words. How do you turn them into a compelling narrative that resonates? We’ll strip everything back and show you how to refine your storytelling skills.
Without visuals to rely on, every sentence becomes sharper and every idea more purposeful. Words alone can evoke emotions, create vivid imagery in your audience’s minds, and build a narrative arc that lingers long after your story ends. Going back to basics forces you to focus on clarity and purpose—key ingredients in storytelling mastery.
True storytelling is about more than entertaining; it’s about connection. And connection comes from authenticity and vulnerability. By stripping away visuals, you’re left with your voice, your face, and your words—pure and human. This vulnerability resonates with your audience and helps them relate to you more deeply.
Let’s be clear: we’re not anti-video. Video is an incredible medium, but too many creators get lost in style and lose sight of the story’s substance. A polished video means nothing if your story lacks authenticity.
Here’s an exercise to elevate your storytelling: For your next podcast, video, or social post, focus entirely on your words. Write with intention. Build a narrative that paints vivid images, evokes emotions, and draws your audience in.
No matter the medium—text, video, or images—the heart of storytelling lies in making your audience feel something. What do you want them to take away? Please focus on the essence of your story, and your audience will remember it.
In Episode 51 of Podcast Tips with Rob Greenlee, the first episode of 2025, we explore the growing trend of prioritizing money as the primary motivation for podcasting and why this mindset could be dangerous. While monetization is essential, making it the primary focus often leads to creative burnout, fragmented workflows, and a loss of authentic connection with audiences.
Rob dives into the realities of podcast monetization, the challenges of securing sponsors, and why podcasting growth is stalling in terms of new shows. He also shares actionable strategies for balancing passion and profit, emphasizing the importance of building community, storytelling, and owning your audience relationships.
Key Topics:
-The risks of money-first podcasting -Why fewer new podcasts are launching -How to balance creative passion with financial goals -The value of owning your audience relationship
Join the conversation and discover how to make podcasting sustainable and meaningful in the long term.
New episodes every week. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for updates!
In this milestone 50th episode aired Live on December 26th, 2024, Podcast Tips with Rob Greenlee delves deep into the evolving podcasting landscape.
The episode focuses on Spotify’s strategic shift toward video content and its implications for podcasters. As the platform prioritizes video over traditional RSS audio feeds, creators face critical decisions regarding distribution, monetization, and audience engagement.
Rob unpacks Spotify’s tactics, such as encouraging direct video uploads that override RSS-distributed audio, and compares them with YouTube’s similar strategies. He explores the challenges this creates, including fractured metrics, disrupted workflows, and the potential loss of centralized control over podcast monetization and analytics.
This episode is a must-listen for podcasters navigating the complexities of today’s content platforms. Rob shares actionable insights on balancing audio and video strategies, maintaining creative autonomy, and avoiding pitfalls in this rapidly changing environment.
Key Takeaways:
-The risks of Spotify’s video-first approach for traditional podcasters.
–How do you assess whether video is the right path for your podcast?
–Strategies for retaining control over distribution, metrics, and monetization.
-Why owning your audience relationship is more critical than ever.
Stay informed and equipped to make the right moves in your podcasting journey!
In episode 49 of Podcast Tips with Rob Greenlee from the Live December 13th, 2024, episode, we tackle one of the most critical yet overlooked aspects of being a content creator: KNOWING YOUR WORTH.
It’s easy to undervalue yourself in the fast-paced, competitive world of podcasting and video creation. From self-doubt to unclear goals, the struggles are real—but so is the power of understanding your value.
We’ll explore the emotional, financial, and practical steps you can take to build self-confidence, align with your core values, and unlock your potential as a podcast host or video creator.
Here’s What We’ll Cover:
Building Self-Worth as a Creator
-Why self-doubt and imposter syndrome can hold you back—and how to break free.
-Rob’s journey from struggling with self-worth in his early radio and podcasting career to building confidence and clarity.
-Understanding and aligning with your core values can transform content creation, collaborations, and audience engagement.
Anchor Yourself in Core Values
-Could you define the values that guide your podcasting purpose?
-How staying true to your values attracts loyal listeners and the right partnerships.
-Example: Turning down sponsorships that don’t align with your mission.
-Actionable Tip: Write down your top 3 values and incorporate them into your podcasting strategy.
Say “Yes” Strategically and “No” Confidently
-Find the balance between being open to opportunities and protecting your time.
-Say “yes” to collaborations that align with your goals and “no” to content that doesn’t add value.
-The “No Rain, No Rainbow” effect: Growth often comes with temporary discomfort.
-Practical Tip: Use a “value filter” for decision-making (e.g., Does this align with my goals? Does it feel authentic?).
The “Loose Change” Principle
-Understand and track your undervalued resources:
-Time: How many hours do you spend on your podcast each week?
-Energy: Avoid burnout by knowing your limits.
-Money: Budget effectively for tools, ads, and professional support.
-Actionable Tip: Set weekly time, energy, and budget management goals.
A replay of a live episode from Dec 5th, 2024, at 7 PM EST / 4 PM PST. On Podcast Tips with Rob Greenlee in Episode 48.
Hall of Fame podcaster Rob Greenlee dives into the Top 3 show format outlines that can transform your next podcast or YouTube episode into an engaging masterpiece! Whether you’re just starting or looking to refine your content, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to make every episode shine.
What You’ll Learn:
A Proven Episode Flow: How to open strong, maintain interest, and end on a high note.
Engagement-Centric Planning: Tips for structuring shows that hook your audience and keep them coming back.
Creative Narrative Designs: How to effectively outline shows to balance storytelling, education, and entertainment.
Get insider tips and tricks for live and recorded formats, ensuring you deliver value and captivate your audience every time.
Bring your questions and ideas—Rob will answer them live during the show. Don’t miss this opportunity to level up your podcasting and video production game!
Subscribe and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Podcast Tips with Rob Greenlee!
In Episode 47 of Podcast Tips with Rob Greenlee, which aired LIVE at 7 pm EST / 4 pm PST on November 21st, 2024, we discussed the critical balance between authenticity and the allure and popularity of trending topics.
Whether you’re a seasoned podcaster or just starting, this episode offers actionable insights to help you navigate controversy, trends, and truth with finesse.
What We’ll Cover:
Power of Visual Communications: Make deeper connections with audiences and layer that in with audio to have remarkable growth dynamic potential—though it does not always work if the quality of the audio/video, personality, and visual attributes of the host don’t meet the very high expectations these days.
The Popularity of Trending Controversies: Discover why trending topics, especially controversial ones, spike engagement and visibility—and why they might not be a sustainable growth strategy.
Authenticity and Quality as a Competitive Advantage: Learn from top podcasters like Joe Rogan, Marc Maron, and Tim Ferriss how staying true to your voice can build trust and deepen audience connections, even when covering hot-button issues.
The Risks of Trend-Driven Controversies: Explore the potential downsides of chasing trends, from eroding trust to creative burnout.
Balancing Authenticity with Trends: Practical strategies to embrace current topics while maintaining your core values, offering unique perspectives, and prioritizing depth over sensationalism.
Takeaways You’ll Love:
How to choose trends that align with your message.
Diving deep into controversial issues.
Using authenticity as a long-term strategy for trust and engagement.
Top 5 Tips: Credibility & Value in Podcast Guest Appearances – Ep 46
Here is the audio and video replay of the Live Podcast Tips Show with Rob Greenlee’s show/podcast on Thursday, Nov 7th, at 7 pm EST / 4 pm PST. Learn how to take your podcast’s guest appearances to the next level.
Does having thoughtful, credible guest appearances add value to your podcast?
-We discuss making guest spots meaningful for hosts, guests, and audiences.
-This episode covers the impact of guest appearances on podcast credibility, strategies for selecting high-value guests, and techniques for keeping the conversation authentic and engaging.
Whether you’re a host or an aspiring guest, you’ll learn:
-The importance of balancing credibility and authenticity in guest appearances.
-Practical steps for choosing guests who align with your podcast’s mission.
-Tips for creating a value exchange that benefits everyone involved.
-How to handle diverse viewpoints and maintain trust with your audience.
-Actionable advice for hosts and guests on adding value to every episode.
Credibility and Value in Guest Appearances
This in-depth episode explores the complex dynamics of guest appearances on podcasts. Rob covers the “credibility effect,” where he discusses how selecting and introducing guests shapes the perceived trustworthiness of both the guest and the host. He also touches on strategies to evaluate guests’ credibility and expertise to ensure alignment with the show’s values.
Key areas include:
Choosing the Right Guest: Rob evaluates a guest’s credentials and background, considering potential risks like unintended endorsements and alignment with the podcast’s goals. He highlights techniques like pre-interviews, where hosts can assess chemistry and knowledge without giving away too much of the conversation.
Creating Value for All Parties: Rob emphasizes the mutual benefits for hosts, guests, and audiences. He explains how hosts can use their platforms to showcase guests without compromising their authority, allowing for both educational and entertainment value. He also references Joe Rogan as an example of a host who balances his deep knowledge with effective guest interactions.
Managing Guest Dynamics and Authenticity: Rob discusses balancing professionalism, personal connection, and navigating controversial topics. He advises avoiding “softball” questions to maintain a genuine, engaging conversation that adds value for listeners.
Mentioning Podcast Booking Services: Rob reviews popular guest booking services, including PodBooker, PodMatch, Interview Connections, and PodChaser Connect. He shares his experience with Interview Connections and offers insight into the benefits and challenges of using these platforms for exposure and guest sourcing.
The Role of the Host: Finally, Rob delves into the host’s role in framing the guest’s appearance, including introducing guests in a way that builds their credibility and keeps the show on track. He underscores the importance of active listening and maintaining control over the conversation.
Join Rob for practical, insightful tips on maximizing the valueof guest appearances, managing audience expectations, and fostering meaningful conversations on your podcast.
Live Podcast Tips Show with Rob Greenlee Episode – Ep 45
TOPIC: How To Boost Success with Great Podcast/Show Art
Recorded Live: Friday, Nov 1st, 2024, 7 pm EST / 4 pm PST
In this episode, we explore one of podcast promotion’s most crucial yet often overlooked aspects: podcast / show graphic art.
Before anyone presses play, your visual brand and cover art are the first things potential listeners see—it’s your podcast’s first impression! We’ll discuss how to create influential cover art that looks great and tells the story of your podcast, helping you stand out in a crowded market.
Topics Covered:
-Importance of Cover Art: First impressions and the role of art in attracting listeners. -Title, Style, Colors, and Fonts: Tips for each element to enhance readability, emotional impact, and discoverability. -Design Do’s and Don’ts: What should you include and avoid to make your cover art platform-ready and visually impactful? -Learn the essentials for creating cover art that promotes your podcast and sets the tone for your show!
Crafting Your Story: Keys to Engaging Podcast Shows
This was a Live Podcast Tips Show Stream Event from Thursday, Oct 23rd, 7 pm EST / 4 pm PST.
In this episode, we tackle one of the biggest questions in podcasting:
What makes a podcast genuinely engaging? Is it the microphone, editing software, or hosting platform? Those tools are essential but don’t hold a candle to the real key—storytelling.We’ll dive into the art of storytelling in podcasts.
You’ll learn how to:
– Create an emotional connection with your listeners.
– Structure your episodes with a clear beginning, middle, and end.
– Use tension and intrigue to keep your audience engaged.
– Craft compelling interviews that resonate with your audience.
– Reflect on your storytelling approach to continuously improve.
– Whether you’re just starting or are an experienced podcaster looking to enhance your narrative skills, this episode will provide actionable tips for creating stories that captivate and connect.
Tune in live and learn the craft behind engaging podcasts that people return to!
In Episode 43 of Podcast Tips with Rob Greenlee, I explore some wild, crazy, and creative ways to start or transform your podcast and help it stand out.
NOW is the perfect time to jump into podcasting, and I’ll show you how to think differently about your content.
In this episode:
Creating uniquely formatted content is important to reach an aligned group of deeply connected individuals.
With fewer creators focusing on audio-first programs, there is a unique opportunity to focus on authentically human storytelling in a growing inauthentic AI-influenced society. As most of the attention is moving to video-format shows and audio podcasts, embrace a video strategy.
How to capitalize on the current trend and differentiate your content in the crowded world of video podcasts by providing listeners with a focused, high-quality audio experience.
How to find your niche and stand out in a crowded space by thinking creatively about your content.
Wild Show Concept #1: “Story Swap Duel” – Two hosts exchange their wildest stories, with listeners voting for the best each week.
Wild Show Concept #2: “Reverse Expert” – People teach experts something new daily, flipping the traditional podcast format.
Creative Format #3: “Interactive Choose-Your-Adventure” – Let listeners vote to decide the outcome of your story, creating a dynamic, interactive show experience!
Podcast Roulette Creative Format #4: Launch with a format where each episode is a surprise! Spin a wheel or random generator live at the start of each episode to determine the topic, guest, or format (e.g., interview, solo, storytelling). This element of unpredictability keeps listeners hooked and intrigued about what’s next.
Time-Travel Interviews Creative Format #5: Create a show where you “interview” historical figures or fictional future versions of current celebrities or thought leaders. Use voice actors, AI voice technology, or creative storytelling to simulate these conversations, exploring their thoughts on modern issues or future innovations.
Crowdsourced Decisions Creative Format #6: Start with a podcast where the audience directly shapes the episode! Let listeners vote in real-time (via social media, live polls, etc.) on what the host will talk about, what guests to invite, or which challenges to tackle in the next episode. It’s interactive, unpredictable, and deeply engaging.
Narrative Soundscape Creative Format #7: Incorporate immersive audio storytelling using real-life soundscapes or sound effects to narrate personal or historical stories. For instance, you could explore a different city or cultural experience in each episode, making it feel like the audience is with you.
Reverse Interviews Creative Format #8: Instead of interviewing the guest, let the guest interview you! Start your show with the premise that the guest gets to ask questions that reveal more about the host or behind-the-scenes details of podcasting, or get them to challenge your expertise.
Podcast in a Box Creative Format #9: Launch a “podcast-in-a-box” experience. Your listeners receive a physical package before your first episode airs. Inside, they find clues, puzzles, or themed items related to the first episode’s topic, creating anticipation and immersive engagement.
Real-Time Problem Solving Creative Format #10: Launch a show focused on solving a problem or challenge in real time without prior preparation. The content could be anything from cracking a code to troubleshooting a guest’s issue on the spot, making it feel urgent, raw, and exciting.
Podcast Challenges: Guest vs. Host Creative Format #11: Make your podcast a competition where you and your guests engage in live challenges, like trivia, games, or debates. Incorporate audience participation, with listeners suggesting topics or questions in real-time.
Behind-the-Scenes Build Creative Format #12: Make your entire first season a behind-the-scenes journey of building the podcast itself! Record all the brainstorming, failures, and progress in real-time, with episode one being raw, unpolished, and evolving throughout the season. This will create authenticity and show your growth process.
Mystery Guest Show Creative Format #13: Start a show in which the guest’s identity is hidden until the end of the episode. Use voice modulation or clues to build suspense and have the listeners try to guess who the guest is throughout the episode.
Unique Formats Through Innovative Technical Setups:
Nomono Portable Recording Tool Platform: Use a Nomono.co wireless sound recording system to create immersive, high-quality audio for remote or on-the-go podcasting. It allows you to record in outdoor or unconventional locations easily.
DJI OSMO Pocket 3: Leverage this ultra-portable video camera for dynamic video podcasting. It seamlessly captures high-quality footage for podcast episodes, incorporating on-location visuals or behind-the-scenes content.
Multi-camera video recording and live streaming—New Rode Switcher and YOLO and ATEM Video Switchers… creating broadcast-quality episodes in combination with good wireless and wired microphones—with portable diffuser LED color-adjustable panel lights.
