Podcasting has exploded in popularity over the past decade, no matter if it is in the B2B space, entertainment, or anything else!
Therefore, it has become a powerful tool for storytelling, education, and community building within local regional podcasts.
In smaller areas, it offers a unique opportunity to give voice to regional stories, issues, and personalities that often go unheard on national platforms.
However, with more creators entering the space, the challenge becomes: how do you make your local podcast stand out?
Luckily, the B2B podcasting experts, LRB, have the keys to success.
Establish yourself in the community
The first step is to deeply understand your local audience – no matter if it’s their struggles, successes, or unheard voices – you can be their platform.
Whether you’re in a small town, a bustling city, or anything else, your podcast should reflect the interests, values, and stories that matter most to your community.
This is why you should interview local leaders, highlight neighbourhood businesses, or discuss local events.
Listeners are more likely to engage with content that resonates personally – but also geographically.
Be unique
Standing out in a crowded podcasting landscape affects everyone in the industry, as it is constantly evolving with new people joining on a regular basis.
This means that offering something different is essential.
You need to think about what makes your area special – and what perspective can you bring that will resonate with people.
Is there a specific cultural event, cuisine, music scene, successful business, or attraction? Then provide them a platform and speak to relevant people to get the right information.
Have a look at what others have put online, and see where they have missed valuable inputs from experts – or provide an opposing viewpoint on an issue.
Also with podcasting, you aren’t limited to time, or how you display the content – make a plan to create fun edits, and then work out how you can maximise its output on social media and podcasting platforms.
Invest in quality equipment
Even a local podcast must look and sound professional from the first few seconds.
This is why it is crucial to invest in a good microphone, a high-quality camera, use the best possible editing software, and take the time to refine each episode so that it delivers for your audience.
Poor audio or visual quality can quickly turn off listeners, no matter how interesting the content is – and they won’t be coming back.
Collaborate
Forming partnerships with other local creators, community groups, or businesses can help increase your podcast’s reach, and help in growing organically.
You can also look to co-host events, running giveaways, or featuring guest speakers from different sectors not only enriches your content, but can help you grow your podcast.
If it is a successful partnership, then you can appear on each other’s podcast and cross-promote where appropriate.
This builds a network of listeners who care about the local scene.
Promoting the podcast
Just like with any marketing in the modern world, use social media platforms and local forums to promote your podcast.
You’ll need to engage in conversations within local Facebook groups, subreddits, or LinkedIn groups – and don’t shy away from asking for reviews and shares where possible.
You can even invite listeners to participate in episodes by submitting questions or stories – or provide video clips of relevant content.
Once you have created a website to host your podcast and keep listeners up to date with information, start a blog to provide extra details – or provide follow ups to episodes.
Consistency is key
This is perhaps the most important part of owning your own podcasting – CONSISTENCY.
Establish and stick to a regular release schedule – make it clear to your audience when they can expect the podcast and what will be on it.
Whether it’s weekly or bi-weekly, consistency builds listener loyalty and trust.
Find the right podcasting partner
In a world full of global content, standing out can be difficult
Therefore, finding the right partner will help you deliver your podcast to the highest of standards.
At LRB, our clients have experienced the impact of our knowledge within the industry, as well as our expertise in creating successful podcast series for a range of industries, both locally, nationally and around the world.
Call 07741 487245 to speak with our CEO, Luke, or email hello@lrb-media.co.uk to learn more.