Influential Voices of Authority

Authority is not an accident. It's the result of fiercely intentional strategy, authentic connection, and the right visibility. Creating authority through podcast interviews can attract clients and revenue. In this episode of Influential Voices of Authority, Erik K. Johnson brings in Kristen Nolan, senior client account manager at Interview Valet, to reveal exactly how podcast guesting can transform your voice into your most powerful business asset. Episode Segments 00:01 "Open More Doors with Your Podcast" 01:10 The Two Sides of Building Your Audience 03:08 Finding the Right Partners in Your Niche 04:31 Why Guesting on Podcasts Works 05:19 Interviewing Kristen Nolan: Her Journey 07:39 Growing Authority Without Prior Podcasting Experience 09:55 Podcasting for Introverts and Thought Leaders 10:40 Strategy and Coaching: Custom Interview Prep 13:00 Storytelling for Impact and Connection 14:17 Building Trust as a Guest Authority 16:36 Real Results: From One Interview to $90K Deals 17:41 Go Beyond "Recording and Done" 18:22 Compounding Connections for Exponential Growth 19:08 The Power of Consistency in Podcast Visibility 20:27 Guesting vs. Conferences: Leverage and Repurposing 22:01 How to Target the Right Audience as a Guest 23:47 Researching Shows for Strategic Guesting 25:02 Secrets of Being a Great Guest 26:46 Promote Value, Not Just Products 27:45 Handling Difficult Interviews and Guests 28:05 Vetting Podcasts That Align with Your Brand 29:43 Confidence, Preparation, and What Kristen Would Do Differently 33:00 Special Interview Audit Offer Key Takeaways - Stop talking to the same circle. Erik and Kristen break down why you must get your message in front of new ears if you want to capture more leads, clients, and visibility. - Guesting is not just about reach; it's about resonance. Kristen reveals how strategic podcast guesting helped one client close a $90,000 deal through the power of authority and trust, not a sales pitch. - Your network multiplies with every episode. Great guests know how to turn one connection into many by leveraging each interview for introductions, new relationships, and lasting partnerships. - You don't need a huge audience. What matters is getting in the right room, with the right message, at the right time. Authority comes from trust, not just traffic numbers. - Consistency over perfection. With the right systems, you build influence through steady, authentic visibility—even if you start out cold and nervous. Ready to Boost Your Podcast Success? Kristen shares details about the free Interview Valet Podcast Interview Audit. This powerful resource evaluates your speaking style, the balance of your interviews, filler words, and your connection with audiences, all so you can amplify your authority and impact. Get your free podcast interview audit and connect with Kristen: https://interviewvalet.com/kristen Podcast Audit Ready for your own podcast authority audit? Apply to chat with Erik and uncover your show's authority gaps: https://podcasttalentcoach.com/coaching Next week, tune in as Erik shares more proven strategies to amplify your influence, attract premium clients, and finally step out of obscurity. Authority isn't accidental, it's intentional and within your reach.

Authority Through Positioning: Authority isn't about being the loudest in the room. It's about showing up with intention, standing confidently in your message, and building real belief in your audience. It's about positioning. In this episode of Influential Voices of Authority, Erik K. Johnson sits down with Danielle Weil, veteran copy marketing strategist and creator of Launch Flow. Danielle shares what it really takes to launch, grow, and market a podcast that not only builds authority but converts listeners into clients... all through the power of personal connection and clarity in your positioning. Subscribe to the podcast: Apple Podcasts: http://www.PodcastTalentCoach.com/apple Spotify: http://www.PodcastTalentCoach.com/spotify Website: http://www.PodcastTalentCoach.com/podcasts Click subscribe on this video! Important Links: Grab Danielle Weil's Launch Flow Roadmap: https://dwcopy.com/roadmap Podcast Audit & Coaching: https://podcasttalentcoach.com/coaching Episode Segments: 00:00 "Why Most Podcasts Don't Grow Your Business" 02:22 "Turning Content Into Authority" 07:13 "Becoming a Category of One" 08:18 "Authority vs. Guest-Centered Shows" 10:16 "Framing Conversations to Build Expertise" 13:15 "Launching a Podcast After 20 Years in Business" 15:10 "From Idea to Launch: The Emotional Rollercoaster" 17:44 "The Feelings After Shipping the First Season" 22:16 "Secrets Behind Seven-Figure Launches" 24:29 "How the Launch Flow Method Came to Life" 26:44 "Energy Flow and Success in Launches" 29:10 "Personal Connection as the Authority Multiplier" 31:11 "Building a Launch That Matches Your Audience" 34:44 "The Emotional Curve of Every Launch" 39:01 "Testing and Shortening Open Cart Windows" 42:03 "List Hygiene and Launch Email Secrets" 44:34 "Get the Launch Flow Roadmap" 45:29 "What's Next for Danielle and Her Podcast" 46:48 "Listener Q&A: When to Rename or Relaunch Your Podcast" 50:35 "Coaching With Erik—Turning Consistency Into Authority" Key Takeaways: - Authority is Built on Intention, Not Just Content: If your podcast only teaches, you're missing the bigger opportunity. Real authority comes from positioning yourself as the guide who deeply understands your audience's struggles [02:22]. - When You Center the Guest, You Lose Authority: Most podcasters unknowingly make their guests the star, not themselves. Frame the conversation, share your expertise, and lead with your message to keep your authority front and center [08:18]. - Clarity Follows Action: Danielle waited years before hitting publish. Taking imperfect action brings clarity—and those first twelve solo episodes unlocked new ideas, connections, and momentum [15:10]. - Personal Connection is the Ultimate Differentiator: Long sales cycles and crowded markets demand more real, personal engagement than ever. Danielle reveals how adding conversation and live connection to your launches makes you unforgettable [29:10]. - Launches Must Fit Your Stage of Business: Don't copy big-league launches if your audience isn't there yet. Scale your offer and promotion to match your reality, not just industry advice [31:11]. - Master List Hygiene to Fearlessly Email Your List: Use campaign-specific opt-outs and segment your audience so you can confidently email the right people, build rapport, and avoid inbox fatigue [42:03]. Episode Highlights: - The difference between creating more content and stepping into your authority How Danielle pivoted from behind-the-scenes launch copywriter to visible, recognized expert - The five flows of Launch Flow: Cash flow, lead flow, idea flow, workflow, and energy flow - Why personal stories and context make your teaching matter - Tactical strategies for pre-launch warm-up, open cart timing, and maximizing sales without burning out your list Resources: Grab Danielle Weil's Launch Flow Roadmap: https://dwcopy.com/roadmap Connect with Erik or apply for a podcast coaching audit to turn your content into clients and step into your authority: https://podcasttalentcoach.com/coaching Next Week: Don't miss Erik's conversation with Kristen Nolan of Interview Valet. Uncover how to turn podcast interviews into strategic revenue engines and unlock new audiences every month!

Gordon Firemark, The Podcast Lawyer™, is an entertainment attorney who helps creators protect their podcasts and media. He discusses AI-related copyright hazards, publicity and deepfake risks, defamation from AI outputs, and why written permission and guest releases are essential. He also covers legal foundations like entity formation, team contracts, and trademark versus copyright protection.

Authority thrives not only on consistency, but on intentional leadership and leveraging strategic relationships through collaboration. In this episode of Influential Voices of Authority, Erik K. Johnson sits down with Britain Mills-Dawes and Tea Di Lillo, co-hosts of the Uncinched podcast, to reveal the secrets to cultivating authority through collaboration rather than competition. Episode Segments 00:00 Welcome to Influential Voices of Authority 02:15 "Borrowed Trust Accelerates Authority" 04:32 Content Discovery vs. Partnership Leverage 07:03 Complementary Services in the Same Niche 09:00 Equine Chiropractic and Horse Training Explained 13:40 Low-Pressure Entry Point for New Clients 17:02 Real-Life Success Stories from Bodywork and Training 20:24 Podcast Impact on Business Growth 21:54 Big Opportunities Unlocked by Podcasting 24:21 Challenges of Establishing Authority as Young Professionals 29:19 Balancing Dual Businesses on One Podcast 31:36 Why Collaboration Ignites Community 33:25 Positive Engagement and Industry Gatekeeping 36:08 Next Steps for the Podcast and Partnership 37:13 Launch Lessons and Authority Growth 38:28 Essential Owner Resources and Guides 41:03 Your Call to Authority Key Takeaways: - Borrowed Trust is Your Fastest Path to Authority Erik K. Johnson highlights why growing authority is not just about creating more content or boosting SEO, but about leveraging "borrowed trust." When a trusted voice puts you in front of their loyal audience, credibility transfers instantly. - Complementary Partnerships Outperform Competition Britain Mills-Dawes (equine chiropractor) and Tea Di Lillo (trainer and coach) share how their podcast synergizes two unique businesses. By serving the same audience in different, complementary ways, they amplify each other's authority and reach. - The Power of Podcasting to Build Trust Tea Di Lillo discusses how the show acts as a low-pressure entry point, making it easier for clients to get to know, like, and trust her before investing. Episodes showcase authentic philosophy and expertise, breaking down industry walls. - Opportunities Flow from Collaboration From being invited to Podfest to engaging new clients who heard the podcast first, the duo has unlocked doors and built relationships that never would have happened through competing alone. - Creating a Positive, Inclusive Community The podcast is helping reshape the equine industry by encouraging positivity and welcoming newcomers in a traditionally gatekept environment. Engagement is strong, and relationships are deepening at every level. Episode Highlights: - How to select the right strategic partner for borrowed trust - Real examples of podcast-driven client acquisition - Building authority as a younger expert in a legacy industry - Turn hard lessons and grind into testimonials and referrals - The balance of promoting separate businesses on a joint podcast Connect with Britain Mills-Dawes and Tea Di Lillo: Quality Equine: https://www.qualiteaequine.com Stable Instincts: https://www.stableinstincts.ca Your Podcast Audit: Ready to leverage borrowed trust, build authority, and grow your podcast into your greatest asset? Apply for a coaching chat and podcast audit with Erik K. Johnson at https://podcasttalentcoach.com/coaching Next Week: Join Erik as he welcomes Gordon Firemark, the Podcast Lawyer, to discuss the legal risks of using AI tools with your podcast.

Authority grows through intentional connection, not just consistency. In this episode of Influential Voices of Authority, podcast host Erik K. Johnson connects with Russ Hedge, inspirational speaker, international bestselling author, and master connector. Together, they reveal how strategically selecting podcast guests, leveraging borrowed trust, and aligning your message with complementary partners can elevate your influence and transform your podcast into an authority engine. Episode Segments 00:00 "Authority Engine: More Than Content" 01:56 "Strategic Guest Selection for Ideal Buyers" 03:35 "Leveraging Adjacent Experts" 04:37 "Borrowed Trust and Prequalified Listeners" 06:17 "Meet Russ Hedge: Master Connector" 07:55 Launching a Podcast with Purpose and Personal Impact 10:00 "Marketing, Community & Connection" 11:08 Multiple Show Formats: Panels and Local Business 13:01 Audience Dynamics and Growth Strategies 15:11 Adjusting Business for Health and Monetizing Podcasts 17:06 Sponsorships, Value Stack and Monetization Secrets 20:43 Promoting Speaking, Books, Business 21:53 Connection Opens Big Opportunities 23:09 Master Connector vs. Average Networker 25:31 Using Social Media to Catalog Connections 26:01 Cross-Marketing Authority with Books 28:39 Mindset, Credibility, and Inspirational Messaging 30:56 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Starting 33:31 Creating Habit and Consistency from Atomic Habits 39:04 Russ Hedge's Authority Secret: Never Stop Connecting 40:02 Doing It Your Way: Monetization Lessons 41:48 What's Next for Russ Hedge: Scaling with Purpose 42:57 RussHedge.com: One-Stop for Connection and Resources Key Takeaways Authority from Connection, Not Popularity Selecting podcast guests based on alignment with your ideal buyer and complementary skills opens doors to the right audience. Strategic partnerships create borrowed trust, boosting your authority and influence. Monetization Isn't About Audience Size Russ Hedge monetized his podcast from the beginning, focusing on value-packed sponsorships, digital advertising, and cross-promotion—even before he had a large audience. It's about positioning and providing five times the value, not waiting for "enough listeners." Your Body of Work Builds Authority Across more than 1,000 episodes, Russ Hedge demonstrates the power of consistency, celebration, and leveraging each show to promote speaking, books, and deepen community relationships. Mindset and Authenticity Set You Apart Your reaction to adversity, authenticity, and ability to connect with others build credibility and authority in your niche. Russ's journey through cancer and major life events showcases how mindset fuels success. The Secret Sauce: Keep Going and Reconnect Authority comes from repeated, meaningful connections. Never be a "one and done." Build lifelong relationships and continue to bring value. Podcast Audit Ready to strategically grow your podcast authority? Get your podcast audit and coaching session with Erik at https://podcasttalentcoach.com/coaching Connect with Russ Hedge: https://RussHedge.com Next Week: Join Erik as he interviews Tea and Britain, two powerful influencers who show how complementary partnerships position you as a sought-after authority in your niche.

Authority is not about being everywhere. It's about owning a small space with absolute clarity and intention. In this episode of Influential Voices of Authority, Erik K. Johnson welcomes Corinne Gearhart, celebrated dog behavior expert and founder of DoodlePro. Together, they uncover how narrowing your podcast focus unlocks exponential opportunity, positioning you as the go-to authority in your niche. 00:00 "Why Smaller Niches = Greater Authority" 04:18 "Building an Ecosystem, Not Just a Podcast" 07:25 "Tripling Rates Through Authority" 09:25 "Membership, Courses, and Book as Authority Engines" 11:09 "Pre-Selling With Your Body of Work" 12:49 "Becoming the Only Expert in the Category" 15:32 "Launching With Imposter Syndrome and Charting Fast" 18:04 "Podcasts Opening Doors to Industry Idols" 20:05 "Referrals, Relationships, and Compound Connections" 21:37 "Credentials, Confidence, and Authenticity" 22:48 "Guarding Trust and Sponsorship Integrity" 26:02 "Sparking Community Conversation and Bridging Divides" 30:24 "Remembering the Beginner's Questions" 31:27 "SEO Strategy for Podcast Discoverability" Key Takeaways: Niche Down, Level Up When you try to help everyone, you help no one. Erik and Corinne share how narrowing your focus eliminates competition, builds trust, and makes you not the best in your category—but the only one. The Power of Authority Ecosystems Corinne reveals her ecosystem strategy: podcast episodes feed into memberships, exclusive content, self-study courses, and a best-selling book. This system multiplies authority and ensures prospects see you as the answer before you even meet. Build Intimacy and Impact Listeners who binge your back catalog and know your family's names are already sold. Trust and clarity beat hype. Your podcast and book pre-sell your expertise, building intimate community and engagement. Strategic SEO for Discovery Corinne explains her tactical use of Google Keyword and Ubersuggest to identify common questions from doodle owners and title her episodes to rank high for those searches. Discoverability is foundational—you don't need a huge social media push if your audience can find you where they're searching. Authentic Leadership Over Credentials Imposter syndrome is common, but authority comes from hands-on expertise. Sharing your imperfections builds human connection and loyalty with your audience—people trust realness, not perfection. Episode Highlights: How Corinne tripled her local rates by elevating her authority The role of courses, memberships, and books in converting listeners into clients Building sustainable growth and community without relying on traditional ads or sponsorships Navigating controversy and bridging divides in highly passionate Facebook groups Leveraging referrals from industry icons and guests to compound authority Using SEO tools to make episodes discoverable for highly specific questions Ready to turn your podcast from hidden gem into an authority engine? Grab Corinne's complimentary resource for a calmer morning routine with your dog: https://thedoodlepro.com/morningflow Connect with Corinne Gearhart: Website: https://thedoodlepro.com Next Week: Join Erik as he sits down with Russ Hedge and learns how mastering multiple podcasts transformed him into a powerhouse connector and niche authority. Don't miss the chance to step deeper into your own authority! Authority rewards intentionality and clarity. Step into your niche—build your ecosystem—and see how far your podcast can go. Get Your Podcast Audit Let me audit your podcast and find the gaps. Go to www.PodcastTalentCoach.com/coaching, click the button and apply to have a chat with me. We will uncover your authority positioning problem, develop your plan to succeed, and see how I can help and support you to achieve your podcast goals. Until next week, step into your authority. We'll see you next time.

Authority in the media isn't about hustle or piling up content. It's about strategic positioning, crystal-clear messaging, and intentionally being seen where it matters. In this episode of Influential Voices of Authority, Erik K. Johnson welcomes award-winning celebrity cosmetic dentist and PR strategist Dr. Catrise Austin. Together, they break down the bold steps coaches, consultants, and experts can take to go from overlooked content creators to sought-after authorities by being seen as the media. 00:00 "Building Authority Through Podcasts" 03:57 "Embracing Authority and Impact" 09:02 "Authority Eliminates Hustling" 10:33 "Building a Celebrity Dentist Brand" 12:56 Discovering the Power of Media 17:54 "Podcast Brand Overhaul & Strategy" 21:45 Podcast Promotion and Publicity Tips 23:44 "Be Visible, Be the Expert" 28:46 "Everyday Smile Dental Podcast" 29:41 "Affordable Dental Care Resources" 34:05 "Cardi B Smile Makeover Journey" 37:37 "Build Relationships, Seize Opportunities" 40:50 "7 PR Strategies for Podcasters" 45:06 "Podcast Authority Strategy Audit" 45:49 "Narrowing to Become #1" Episode Highlights: Why hustling and creating more content does NOT equal authority How authority is placed by those already in power— and how you can fast-track your recognition by being seen as "media" Dr. Catrise Austin's journey from cosmetic dentist to featured expert on Today, Dr. Oz, Jeopardy, and beyond The FAME method for transforming your podcast from "just another show" into a magnetic platform The crucial difference between promoting your episodes and promoting your expertise Real-world case studies of podcasters who broke out of obscurity using PR, lead magnets, and positioning Strategies for being instantly identifiable to decision makers and the media on social, your website, and more Why intentional connection, the Dream 100, and establishing the right relationships can open doors to top podcast guests, partnerships, and media features How treating your podcast as a media outlet unlocks press passes, brand deals, and new revenue opportunities Key Takeaways: More content isn't the answer—intentionally placing your voice in front of the right audience is Clarity about your expertise makes the opportunities come to you, rather than you chasing them Excellence alone won't get you noticed; authentic positioning and visibility do Your "authority assets"—book, blogs, podcast, lead magnets—are critical to being quotable, bookable, and findable Relationships are the real catalyst for authority; proximity to the right people accelerates your results Resources & Free Gift: Download Dr. Catrise Austin's slides: "7 PR Strategies That Actually Work for Podcasters" Get clear, quotable, and bookable so media and opportunities come to you:http://forms.celebritybrandingusa.com/podfest Connect with Dr. Catrise Austin and Celebrity Branding USA: Website: http://celebritybrandingusa.com Instagram & LinkedIn: @celebritybrandingusa Ready to turn your podcast into an authority engine? You've published the episodes. You've stayed consistent. You know your content is good. And yet… You're not being seen as the authority in your niche Your podcast isn't creating the level of influence or opportunity you expected People listen—but they don't take action And you sound professional… but not unforgettable The truth? Consistency alone doesn't create authority. Intentional leadership does. Turn your podcast into an authority engine and not just more content. Let me audit your podcast and find the gaps. We will uncover your authority positioning prcoblem, develop your plan to succeed, and see how I can help and support you to achieve your podcast goals. Apply for a coaching chat and free podcast audit with Erik K. Johnson athttp://www.PodcastTalentCoach.com/coaching NEXT WEEK: Discover how Corinne Gerhardt turbocharged her authority by niching so deep she became the top Google search in her field. Learn the secrets to "getting chosen" as the recognized expert.

Authority isn't just about consistency. It's about intentional leadership and leveraging your platform in new ways. In this episode, Erik K. Johnson welcomes Tina Dietz, founder and CEO of Twin Flames Studios, a pioneer in voice-powered publishing. Together, they explore how you can transform your podcast episodes into a book and multiply your authority in your niche. 00:00 "Repurpose Content into Authority Book" 06:19 "Drink from the Well" 08:05 "From Audiobooks to Corporate Value" 11:47 Author Community and Resource Hub 15:16 "Efficient CEO Team Engagement" 18:47 Advanced Voiceprint and Content Analysis 23:04 "From Podcasts to Published" 26:40 "Building Trust Through Marketing" 28:00 "Monetizing Connections Through Podcasts" 32:23 "Writing, Motivations, and Podcasts" 35:14 "Guide for First Responder Mental Health" 37:12 "Reflecting Work to Find Purpose" 42:54 "Purpose Behind Writing a Book" 44:52 "Organizing Content for Impact" 48:57 Comprehensive Book Development & Launch 52:25 Transform Podcast into Authority Engine 53:22 Podcast Authority & Growth Strategy Key Takeaways: - Why Turn Your Podcast Into a Book? People don't buy your book just because of new content. They buy it because you make it easier. A book curates and condenses your "best of the best," saving your audience from sifting through dozens of free episodes. - Repurposing Content for Maximum Impact: Tina and Erik dig deep on creative ways to repurpose content, from video, audio, and written word, and how this strategy boosts authority and visibility. - Body of Work vs. Content: Stop viewing your podcast as scattered content; start seeing it as a body of work. Use recurring themes, values, and stories to build your brand and attract premium clients. - The Process & Path to Your Book: Twin Flames Studios offers a guided process: analyzing your podcast, crafting a manuscript (not just copy-pasting transcripts), and publishing a book that aligns with your goals, audience, and message. - Authority That Opens Doors: A book amplifies your recognition, whether you're a speaker, podcaster, or coach. Tina shares moving stories, from award-winning audiobooks to connecting industry experts, increasing authority and creating new opportunities. - When Are You Ready? Signs you might be ready: you have at least 50 quality podcast episodes or pieces of content, clarity on your audience and goals, and you're coachable and ready to invest time and resources. Episode Highlights: - The value of experimenting with formats and content as your business evolves - How Twin Flames Studios pioneered remote audiobook recording for podcasters - Examples of podcasts turned into books, including The Loud Quiet, a memoir for empty nesters - The importance of strategic vision before you publish, making sure your book is relevant, consumable, and truly builds your authority Ready to turn your podcast into a book? Take the free assessment from Twin Flames Studios to see if your podcast is a fit: https://twinflamestudios.com/bookvision Connect with Tina Dietz: Website URL(s) https://twinflamesstudios.com Personal FB: https://www.facebook.com/thisistinadietz Company FB: https://www.facebook.com/TwinFlamesStudiosLeadership/ Personal LI: http://www.linkedin.com/in/tinadietz Company LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/twin-flames-studios Personal IG: https://www.instagram.com/thetinadietz/ Company IG: https://www.instagram.com/twinflamesstudios/ Company YT: https://www.youtube.com/@TwinFlamesStudios Want to level up your authority positioning? Apply for a coaching chat and podcast audit with Erik at https://podcasttalentcoach.com/coaching Next Week: Join Erik as he talks with Dr. Catrice Austin about growing your authority through media—and discover her surprising Jeopardy connection!

A new era begins! After 550 episodes as Podcast Talent Coach, Erik K. Johnson launches Influential Voices of Authority. This is a podcast designed for coaches, consultants, and experts ready to leverage their voice, message and podcast to build trust, attract premium clients and grow their impact. 00:00 "Becoming a Category of One" 03:08 "Podcasting for Profit and Authority" 06:24 "Mastering Influence and Creativity" 09:37 "Becoming an Influential Authority" 13:00 Podcast Success: Strategy & Mentorship In this episode, Erik shares the story behind the show's transformation and what it truly means to build authority. Building it not just with content, but with context, magnetic personality, and storytelling. Erik's broadcasting journey started by accident, but his passion for creativity, connection, and helping others flourish has fueled decades of radio and podcasting success. Why settle for blending in? Erik explains why ads and sponsors create a ceiling and clutter, and how you can instead become a "category of one." He emphasizes that listeners come for your content, but stay for your context. This includes your unique stories, perspectives, and personality. Consistency is great, but intentional leadership is what turns your podcast into an authority engine. Key insights from Erik: - **It's not about content—it's about context.** Your voice wrapped in story creates memorable experiences that build trust and lasting relationships. - **People buy your journey, not your six steps.** Magnetic personalities make others believe and inspire action by sharing real stories and authentic experiences. - **Authority isn't achieved by showing up; it's built on leadership and entertainment.** Listeners want to be entertained and moved, not lectured. - **Three challenges for podcasters:** 1. Overcomplicating the process: Focus on context, not just content. 2. Lacking a strategy to turn listeners into clients: Erik promises interviews and systems to help you succeed. 3. Having no mentor or clear path: This podcast is your guide, with industry leaders ready to share their secrets. Erik invites you to let him audit your podcast and discover where your authority positioning falls short. Visit www.PodcastTalentCoach.com/coaching and let Erik help you build your plan to become unforgettable. **Next episode:** Tina Dietz of Twin Flames Studios joins Erik to explore how you can transform your podcast into a book, making your content easier to access, more impactful, and cementing your authority faster. Get your podcast audit at www.PodcastTalentCoach.com/coaching. Hosted by Erik K. Johnson.

This will be the final episode of Podcast Talent Coach. It has been a great journey through 550 shows. But, it has reached its destination. WHEN I REALIZED IT WAS THE END I've met a lot of great people. The things I've learned are immeasurable. The journey has been incredible. As I was shaping this episode, I thought about a variety of approaches. The 7 things I learned over 550 episodes. The top ten people I've met. The list of mentors who shaped my success. Everything I considered seemed cliché. So, I'm just taking you to how it came to be. The end of the show came to me during my latest launch. As the cart close approached, I realized the end was near. WHERE IT STARTED This all started 20 years ago. In a March 2005 edition of Wired Magazine, I came across an article about MTV VJ Adam Curry. The article was called "Adam Curry Wants You To Be An iPod Radio Star". The article mentioned that Curry was the brains behind iPodder, described as the offspring of the blog and the Apple MP3 player. This was the beginning of podcasting. And I was fascinated. Unfortunately, I had no interest in tech. A few years later I got my first iPhone. I was soon downloading podcasts. By 2009, I was in love with the format. By this time, I had been coaching radio talent for about 15 years with a successful radio show of my own. As I listened to these podcasts, I thought they could be so much more effective if they just used the techniques we used in radio to connect with an audience. They just didn't know what they didn't know. It was still the wild west. MY PERSONAL LAUNCH I started creating content. By 2012 I was speaking on stage at events like New Media Expo and BlogWorld. In June 2013, this podcast was launched. It was also the month that Ken Allan became my first coaching client. He came to me help him create stronger content and a more compelling show. Over the years, I've coached many incredible content creators. I've created a few courses and live programs. There have been webinars that have completely crashed, 3-day events that have been incredible, and lots in between. As the years went on, I started drifting away from stronger content and more toward launching podcasts. THE DRIFT STARTED HAPPENING As I would explain what I do to help people create effective content, people would say, "That sounds great, Erik... but I don't have a podcast." Launching a podcast isn't the tough part. The struggle is figuring out what to do with your podcast. Getting to grow and using it to generate revenue are the areas that create challenges for people. But, they wanted me to help them launch. So, I did. I launched the Podcast Launch Accelerator to help people launch in 30 days. That's when I started attracting people who didn't have a podcast rather than those that needed help with content and growth. Two problems come from this. First, I was attracting people who needed help launching rather than those who wanted more effective content. Second, I was now more into tech and less into how to use it. Exactly where I didn't want to be. BACK TO MY ROOTS So, I got back to my roots. I dove into become influential with your content. My content became more about who you are, how you share your story, and how you move a room to action. We were talking less about how to launch. I recently did market research around influence and impact. I talked to dozens of people about where they struggle regarding becoming someone worth listening to. Their challenges were right in my wheelhouse. When the program was developed, I rolled it out. It was offered in one-on-one calls, workshops, and short info sessions. Of all the people who saw the opportunity, only one purchased. Over the years, I've tried different approaches with different courses. I have some amazing clients and a wonderful group program. The revenue has been solid and growing over the years. It just isn't where I hoped it would be. KNOW WHEN TO END IT Dan Miller was one of my mentors with 48 Days To The Work and Life You Love. He and I shared a birthday, though years apart. We lost Dan at the beginning of 2024. Dan always said you should be able to tell in about 90 days if a business idea has legs. He should know. Dan launched many businesses, some successful, some not so much. He also thought "winners never quit and quitters never win" was a false cliché. In a blog post and podcast episode, Dan said, "I constantly have areas in my business and life that are on the bubble. If they are not proven successful in a very specific period of time – they're gone – I quit but keep moving on to success in other ways." Dan's point was that winners know when to quit. NOT IN THE NUMBERS It happened as I was crunching the numbers from the latest launch and examining the results of 2024 in my business. I came to the realization that the success wasn't where I wanted it to be. During my mastermind call three days later, I explained what I was thinking. That when it was confirmed. It's time to find the next fun thing to pursue. There are 550 episodes here to serve you and help you shape your content. The first 275 episodes are solo with just me, except for episode 200. I sprinkled in some great interviews with some amazing people over the next 275. Find them all here: PODCAST TALENT COACH EPISODES It has been a blast. I can't thank you enough for coming along on the journey. We've done some incredible things. I'm not sure what's next. There are a few things I want to try. I'm sure a podcast will be part of it. I'm sure we'll cross paths again down the road. Until then, remember to always tell the truth, always make it matter, and always have fun. I'll see ya soon.