How To Build Trust and Confidence with Your Podcast Audience

Hey there, podcast enthusiasts and aspiring coaches! We’ve got something super special for you today. Justin and Celine recently had an enlightening chat with Marc Ronick, a podcast wizard with 18 years of experience. He shared his golden wisdom on creating content, building trust, and, yes, even dealing with that pesky imposter syndrome.

You know, in the world of podcasting, technical know-how can get you far, but what takes a podcast from ‘listenable’ to ‘unmissable’? It’s the trust and rapport you build with your audience. But how do you create that intimate atmosphere in a medium where you’re talking to potentially thousands of people you’ve never met?

That’s exactly what we’re diving into today—how to build trust and radiate confidence through your podcast so that each listener feels like you’re speaking directly to them. The magic doesn’t just happen; it’s a result of deliberate choices, authentic communication, and more than a few insider tips.

So grab a cup of coffee, put your podcaster hat on, and get ready for a treasure trove of insights that could very well change the way you podcast. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your existing podcast to new heights, this blog post is your go-to guide for building real, lasting connections with your audience.

Let’s jump in!

Meet Marc Ronick: The man behind iRonick Media

Before diving into Marc’s valuable insights, it’s worth knowing the man himself. Marc Ronick has been at the forefront of podcasting, running his own production and consulting firm, iRonick Media. He recently co-founded NextGenPodcaster, focused on empowering the next wave of podcasters with AI tools, knowledge, and support.

The Podcast Convention Circuit: More Than Just a Meetup

Marc can’t stress enough the value of hitting up podcast conventions, particularly the Podcast Movement. It’s a buzzing hive of ideas, collaborations, and potential partnerships. So, if you’ve been on the fence about attending one, consider this your sign to go for it!

Let’s Get Brainy!

And have you heard of Brain Dates? Forget boring coffee catch-ups; Marc is all about Brain Dates. These are scheduled sessions at conventions where podcasters can have one-on-one or small group conversations. Think of it as speed dating, but for podcast ideas and networking!

Battling Imposter Syndrome: Yes, It’s a Thing

Marc gets personal by sharing his journey with imposter syndrome. At times, the doubts flooded in, making him question his abilities. His advice? Be you. Your audience will feel the sincerity, and that’s a big trust builder.

Your Audience is Your Family

The key takeaway here is that your audience should be treated like your extended family. This isn’t just about numbers; it’s about forming meaningful relationships. As Marc says, “Word-of-mouth is slow but potent. You don’t just build an audience; you build a community.”

Make an effort to engage, reply to their comments, and even surprise them with exclusive content. Trust us; they’ll stick around.

Be Real, Not a Reel

Authenticity is more than a buzzword; it’s your bread and butter. Marc insists that the best way to connect is to be yourself. If you mess up, own it. Your audience will appreciate the real you more than a polished fake.

Conquer The Filler Words

Nervous about speaking? Marc suggests taking it slow to avoid the dreaded “um” and “like“. This lets you gather your thoughts and also reduces those filler words, making you sound more confident and competent.

And remember, you’re talking to one person at a time, not a faceless crowd. So, make it personal.

The Trust Factor

The more you give to your audience, the more you get. Podcasting isn’t just about speaking into a microphone; it’s about building trust. That trust translates into brand authority and even influences consumer behavior.  Once you’ve built a loyal audience, you’ll notice something magical—your brand authority starts to climb. People will begin to rely on your recommendations, and your impact will grow exponentially. 

Live Reads vs Pre-Recorded Ads

When it comes to ads, Marc recommends live reads for ads over pre-recorded ones. Why? Because they feel more natural and are less likely to be skipped, adding another layer of trust and authenticity to your show. They’re more personal and mesh better with the episode’s flow. So if you’ve got a product to pitch, make it a part of your show, not an afterthought. 

There’s No One-Size-Fits-All

Here’s a liberating thought: There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to podcasting. Keep an open mind, experiment, and listen to your audience. If they’re vibing with what you’re doing, you’re on the right track.

Remember, what works for one podcaster may not work for you. Marc emphasizes that there’s no right or wrong way to podcast. Pay attention to your audience, take advice, try new things, and stick with what resonates.

Experiment and Evolve

Last but not least, don’t be afraid to try new things. As Marc puts it, take advice, apply it, and see what sticks. The podcasting world is ever-changing, and so should you.

That wraps up our key takeaways from my chat with Marc Ronick. Feel inspired? Ready to win your audience over? We hope so! Stay tuned for more insights and tips on our own podcast, “Oh My Pod,” where we teach coaches just like you how to podcast like a pro.

And don’t forget, you’re not just creating content; you’re creating connections! 

Happy podcasting!

Watch the full episode here ⬇️

This blog post is based on episode 26 of “Oh My Pod.” To get the full experience and listen to the episode, click here

Listen to Oh My Pod

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Connect with Marc Ronick: @marcronick

Connect with us: @podigypodcasts

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