So, you’ve set up your podcast and gotten all the right equipment.
Now, you’re wondering how the heck are you going to get funding to make this show work?
While you might not be primarily motivated by money, it sure makes it easier to improve the production quality, bring on good guests, and create a pleasurable listening experience.
I’ve put together a video for you, which I’ve shared below, as to how to tackle this problem.
Along with funding, marketing is also a huge problem when it comes to new shows. I have a great guide on how to get listeners if you want to learn more about that.
By the way, one of the websites I mentioned in this video is called Patreon. You can use it to get funding from the crowd on an on-going basis.
We also discussed some other ways to raise money (along with the differences between the sources). I hope you enjoyed the video.
Let’s discuss what actually goes into securing funding from the crowd…
You gotta have an “offer” to get funds
You can’t just expect people to give money to your show out of the goodness of their heart. Give them something for their hard-earned dollars!
By spending some time thinking about what kind of value you can bring to your audience, you’ll make them far more likely to want to get in on the project. I’m referring to perks or exclusive rewards that they’ll gain access to when they join your crowdfunding campaign.
While there are different crowdfunding websites you can use, this one key point remains constant. Once you finally put out that offer, then people can finally say yes, no, or respond with a few questions. You can use this feedback to see whether or not you need to add more value to the offer or adjust the price.
Study up on marketing (it will help a lot)
If you haven’t already, go and grab a copy of my book, Podcasting for Beginners. It shares several very powerful marketing strategies that you can use to get more traffic to your show and more funding for your campaign.
You can announce a crowdfunding campaign to the public, but until you get some funding, it’s not going to trend better in the overall crowdfunding platform marketplace.
It sounds weird to say it, but you gotta bring your own crowd. That’s what jumpstarts the fundraising process. Having your own crowd makes it easier to get funding from strangers.
That initial crowd comes from your marketing efforts using strategies like the ones I covered in the book. These easy-to-implement tactics can literally make the difference between a successful fundraiser and a failure.
Show listeners what you’re capable of…
Many of these crowdfunding sites are used by podcasters who already have an audience. They are simply using the platform to monetize their audience.
If you don’t have an audience, then need to show people what the show will be like. Think of it as a teaser. How can they trust that you’ll deliver something epic and high quality?
Investing in quality podcasting equipment is a great start, however you have to go even further. If you’ve never produced a show before, then you’re going to need to get good at storytelling, interviewing, or showcasing your personality.
This might take a few takes or tries before you get it right, but when you do, you’ll have something to show potential funders that gives them a true taste of what you’e capable of.
You wouldn’t go and watch a movie without watching the trailer first. Make sense?
Still struggling? Hire a coach!
I do coaching for crowdfunders and podcasters. I’ve personally gone through a major voice transformation with my own podcast. You can literally witness my change across my last 200 episodes.
Now, I am able to generate an income from my work (and you can do the same). If you can’t figure this whole business out, then I’ll show you! We can explore how to generate more revenue from your existing show, or launch a new one.
Personally, I’ve found that the number one thing that tends to hold back students is their ability to communicate their passion, vision, and message with the world. For whatever reason, they shy away from putting themselves out there or coming off as too salsey.
I can show you how to share your work with the world (while also getting paid for it). We’ll do this coming from transparent values and by putting your relationship with your listeners at the forefront of your business.
Not ready to take the leap? No worries. It’s a big leap haha!
I also have another great video on some of my podcasting tips and advice for beginners. I’ll share some of my major revelations and lessons learned with you. Enjoy.
