In this episode of Podcast Growth University, I’m sharing the five simple but powerful things I always do before interviewing a guest. From checking their website and social media to spotting fake followers and asking questions that connect, these steps have helped me build real relationships and create standout episodes. Whether you’re brand new or ready to level up your skills, I’ll walk you through exactly how I prep so you can show up with confidence and give your audience real value.

Podcast Growth Nation - https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1FyLeJB5H5/

A free 30-minute call with Kevin: https://bit.ly/3E0ieM0

If you want to learn more about podcasts, reach out to Kevin:
IG: https://www.instagram.com/neverquitkid/
Email: Kevin@nextleveluniverse.com

Need help with your podcast? Check out Next Level Podcast Solutions: https://www.nextleveluniverse.com/next-level-podcast-solutions/

Show notes:
(1:28) When fake followers fool hosts
(3:03) Review their website
(4:17) Analyze social media
(5:50) Listen to their podcast
(9:22) Study guest appearances
(11:17) Use search tools
(12:50) Austin, host of the First Gen Real Estate podcast, shares his top-notch experience with Kevin.
(13:32) Going the extra mile
(17:16) Why preparation is your edge
(20:30) The problem with unvetted guests
(22:22) Quality over quantity
(23:33) Make every interview memorable
(26:31) Outro

Looking for a platform to record high-quality audio and video? We use Streamyard, and you can get a $10 credit by using my link: https://streamyard.com/pal/c/5352552165277696

If you’re looking for a new place to host your podcast, we use Buzzsprout. You get a $20.00 bonus if you use my link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=680114

Podcast Growth Nation is up and running! If you’re looking for a group of other amazing podcasters like you, here’s your spot!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/3361307260840872

Send us a text

What grows your business might not grow you. In today’s episode, I share the behind-the-scenes choices I’ve made to stay aligned even when it meant saying no to big names or popular strategies. If you’ve ever felt torn between what works and what feels right, this is your reminder that you don’t have to choose one or the other. You can grow your podcast in a way that actually feels good.

Podcast Growth Nation - https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1FyLeJB5H5/

A free 30-minute call with Kevin: https://bit.ly/3E0ieM0

If you want to learn more about podcasts, reach out to Kevin:
IG: https://www.instagram.com/neverquitkid/
Email: Kevin@nextleveluniverse.com

Need help with your podcast? Check out Next Level Podcast Solutions: https://www.nextleveluniverse.com/next-level-podcast-solutions/

Show notes:
(3:01) Defining your version of success
(4:20) The cost of inauthentic shortcuts
(6:10) Walking away from misaligned mentors
(8:05) Why we stopped having guests
(10:18) Jennifer, the host of Doing Relationships Right, shares how Kevin helped her and her podcast.
(14:09) Choosing process over performance
(17:38) Sustainable growth starts with alignment
(20:19) Outro

Looking for a platform to record high-quality audio and video? We use Streamyard, and you can get a $10 credit by using my link: https://streamyard.com/pal/c/5352552165277696

If you’re looking for a new place to host your podcast, we use Buzzsprout. You get a $20.00 bonus if you use my link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=680114

Podcast Growth Nation is up and running! If you’re looking for a group of other amazing podcasters like you, here’s your spot!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/3361307260840872

Send us a text

Are you pushing so hard you're burning out? In this episode, I open up about why scaling back doesn’t mean giving up, it means being smart. If your podcast or passion project is starting to feel like a burden, this is your reminder that sustainability matters more than speed. Whether you’re releasing one episode or seven, what matters most is that it actually works for you.

Podcast Growth Nation - https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1FyLeJB5H5/

A free 30-minute call with Kevin: https://bit.ly/3E0ieM0

If you want to learn more about podcasts, reach out to Kevin:
IG: https://www.instagram.com/neverquitkid/
Email: Kevin@nextleveluniverse.com

Need help with your podcast? Check out Next Level Podcast Solutions: https://www.nextleveluniverse.com/next-level-podcast-solutions/

Show notes:
(1:56) The permission you might need
(3:12) Sustainability beats optimization
(5:46) Don’t lose the why
(6:47) Dr. Tarryn, the host of The Business of Happiness, shares her podcast journey and growth with Kevin and the Next Level Podcast Solutions.
(10:09) When podcasting stops serving you
(12:19) Define what success means to you
(13:56) Outro

Looking for a platform to record high-quality audio and video? We use Streamyard, and you can get a $10 credit by using my link: https://streamyard.com/pal/c/5352552165277696

If you’re looking for a new place to host your podcast, we use Buzzsprout. You get a $20.00 bonus if you use my link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=680114

Podcast Growth Nation is up and running! If you’re looking for a group of other amazing podcasters like you, here’s your spot!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/3361307260840872

Send us a text

In today’s episode, I get real about what it takes to grow a successful podcast, and spoiler alert, it’s not about having fancy equipment, viral guests, or cracking the algorithm. It’s about showing up when it’s hard, when no one’s listening, and when the results take way longer than you hoped. I share the behind-the-scenes moments, maxing out credit cards, skipping holidays, and grinding through the quiet seasons that most people don’t talk about. If you're wondering why your podcast isn't growing the way you hoped, this honest conversation might be the mirror you need.

Podcast Growth Nation - https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1FyLeJB5H5/

A free 30-minute call with Kevin: https://bit.ly/3E0ieM0

If you want to learn more about podcasts, reach out to Kevin:
IG: https://www.instagram.com/neverquitkid/
Email: Kevin@nextleveluniverse.com

Need help with your podcast? Check out Next Level Podcast Solutions: https://www.nextleveluniverse.com/next-level-podcast-solutions/

Show notes:
(1:53) Sacrificing comfort for growth
(3:29) The hidden cost of low commitment
(6:35) The $15 mindset test
(9:43) Three beliefs that drive success
(11:57) John is the host of Tomorrow's Leader and the very first Next Level Podcast Solutions client. Listen to what he has to say about Kevin and his team.
(13:08) Fitness, habits, and podcasting
(16:45) The power of pushing through
(20:15) Talent won’t beat consistency
(23:09) A coach’s job: Hard truths
(25:25) Outro

Looking for a platform to record high-quality audio and video? We use Streamyard, and you can get a $10 credit by using my link: https://streamyard.com/pal/c/5352552165277696

If you’re looking for a new place to host your podcast, we use Buzzsprout. You get a $20.00 bonus if you use my link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=680114

Podcast Growth Nation is up and running! If you’re looking for a group of other amazing podcasters like you, here’s your spot!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/3361307260840872

Send us a text

Think podcasting made me a better speaker? Not exactly. In this episode, I share what I’ve learned after thousands of episodes and why podcasting alone isn’t enough to truly level up your speaking. I walk you through the simple daily practices that helped me find my voice, sharpen my message, and stop hiding behind guests. If you're serious about growing as a speaker, this one's for you.

Podcast Growth Nation - https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1FyLeJB5H5/

A free 30-minute call with Kevin: https://bit.ly/3E0ieM0

If you want to learn more about podcasts, reach out to Kevin:
IG: https://www.instagram.com/neverquitkid/
Email: Kevin@nextleveluniverse.com

Need help with your podcast? Check out Next Level Podcast Solutions: https://www.nextleveluniverse.com/next-level-podcast-solutions/

Show notes:
(1:58) How preparation shapes performance
(3:01) Two daily exercises to improve speaking
(5:04) Interviewing Vs. Public speaking
(6:21) Mastering the hook, story, and CTA
(9:04) The trap of hiding behind guests
(10:19) Chad, the host of The Legend of You Podcast, shares his wonderful experience with Kevin and Next Level Podcast Solutions.
(11:16) Why spontaneous speech builds skill
(15:10) The cost of avoiding discomfort
(17:29) One-liners are the key to impact
(19:16) How to start practicing intentionally
(20:37) Outro

Looking for a platform to record high-quality audio and video? We use Streamyard, and you can get a $10 credit by using my link: https://streamyard.com/pal/c/5352552165277696

If you’re looking for a new place to host your podcast, we use Buzzsprout. You get a $20.00 bonus if you use my link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=680114

Podcast Growth Nation is up and running! If you’re looking for a group of other amazing podcasters like you, here’s your spot!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/3361307260840872

Send us a text

Just because something feels comfortable doesn’t mean it’s working. I break down why so many podcasters default to guest interviews, even when their true goal is lead generation and how that approach might actually be holding them back.

Podcast Growth Nation - https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1FyLeJB5H5/

A free 30-minute call with Kevin: https://bit.ly/3E0ieM0

If you want to learn more about podcasts, reach out to Kevin:
IG: https://www.instagram.com/neverquitkid/
Email: Kevin@nextleveluniverse.com

Need help with your podcast? Check out Next Level Podcast Solutions: https://www.nextleveluniverse.com/next-level-podcast-solutions/

Show notes:
00:00 – Why we often stick with podcast strategies that no longer work

00:47 – The solo episode comeback in group coaching

01:30 – When guest interviews don’t align with your goals

03:08 – Why guest interviews alone won’t generate leads

04:10 – The guest-first trap and why it’s hurting your results

05:31 – Using guest interviews for growth, solos for dollars

06:53 – What solo episodes do better than interviews

08:19 – The harsh math of YouTube views vs. revenue

09:04 – Why most guests won’t become clients

10:17 – Highlighting expert guests can backfire

11:13 – A coaching story: from zero messages to six breakthrough sessions

12:49 – The power of outreach and changing your strategy

13:54 – Even small changes can spark growth

14:26 – Three big takeaways about podcast monetization

15:36 – Why guesting on podcasts may be more valuable than hosting guests

17:06 – Real conversion numbers from a high-traffic YouTube channel

18:59 – Podcasting works best when you’re solving specific problems

20:25 – Final thoughts: Revisit your strategy before you quit

Looking for a platform to record high-quality audio and video? We use Streamyard, and you can get a $10 credit by using my link: https://streamyard.com/pal/c/5352552165277696

If you’re looking for a new place to host your podcast, we use Buzzsprout. You get a $20.00 bonus if you use my link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=680114

Podcast Growth Nation is up and running! If you’re looking for a group of other amazing podcasters like you, here’s your spot!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/3361307260840872

Send us a text

The secret to growing your podcast isn't what most creators think. In this episode, I explain why your consumption rate matters more than your audience size and show you how to find and interpret that data on Apple and Spotify. I’ll also share the simple changes that helped me boost my retention rate, the tweaks that made a bigger impact on my growth than any marketing push.

Podcast Growth Nation - https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1FyLeJB5H5/

A free 30-minute call with Kevin: https://bit.ly/3E0ieM0

If you want to learn more about podcasts, reach out to Kevin:
IG: https://www.instagram.com/neverquitkid/
Email: Kevin@nextleveluniverse.com

Need help with your podcast? Check out Next Level Podcast Solutions: https://www.nextleveluniverse.com/next-level-podcast-solutions/

Show notes:
(2:42) What retention rate really tells you
(4:19) How to find your Apple stats
(7:06) Spotify retention: what to look for
(8:57) What 102% consumption actually means
(10:18) Kim from The Peaceful Productivity Podcast shares her wonderful experience with Kevin and NLPS
(12:56) What’s considered average vs excellent
(14:17) Bad audio is killing your episodes
(16:58) Homework: compare your top and bottom 5
(19:29) Simple cold open tips to boost retention
(20:20) Outro

Looking for a platform to record high-quality audio and video? We use Streamyard, and you can get a $10 credit by using my link: https://streamyard.com/pal/c/5352552165277696

If you’re looking for a new place to host your podcast, we use Buzzsprout. You get a $20.00 bonus if you use my link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=680114

Podcast Growth Nation is up and running! If you’re looking for a group of other amazing podcasters like you, here’s your spot!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/3361307260840872

Send us a text

Listener feedback feels like gold—but is it always? In today’s episode, I’m sharing the tricky balance between taking feedback seriously and staying true to your vision. Not every comment warrants a change—and even helpful reviews can shake your confidence. I’ll walk you through how I’ve handled criticism, what I’ve learned from it, and how to keep growing your show without losing yourself in the process.

Podcast Growth Nation - https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1FyLeJB5H5/

A free 30-minute call with Kevin: https://bit.ly/3E0ieM0

If you want to learn more about podcasts, reach out to Kevin:
IG: https://www.instagram.com/neverquitkid/
Email: Kevin@nextleveluniverse.com

Need help with your podcast? Check out Next Level Podcast Solutions: https://www.nextleveluniverse.com/next-level-podcast-solutions/

Show notes:
(2:49) Why single comments shake your confidence
(4:56) Playing not to lose Vs. Playing to win
(7:11) Take all feedback with a grain of salt
(8:30) When feedback stings because it’s true
(9:36) Amy from the Mom: In-Process podcast shares her experience with Kevin and the NLPS team.
(11:47) Does the change align with your goals?
(14:19) Friends’ opinions Vs. Real listeners
(16:50) When repeated feedback reveals a real issue
(20:02) Feedback, fear, and finding your voice
(21:21) Outro

Looking for a platform to record high-quality audio and video? We use Streamyard, and you can get a $10 credit by using my link: https://streamyard.com/pal/c/5352552165277696

If you’re looking for a new place to host your podcast, we use Buzzsprout. You get a $20.00 bonus if you use my link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=680114

Podcast Growth Nation is up and running! If you’re looking for a group of other amazing podcasters like you, here’s your spot!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/3361307260840872

Send us a text