By Shannon Kurban
YouTube is one of the most effective avenues for promoting your podcast. However, there is a method to the popular social media channel. You can't simply upload your video episode and see overnight success.
YouTube has over 2.6 billion active users. They're investing heavily into the podcasting space by hiring a Director of Podcasting and publishing a slide deck of plans for podcasting. If you're looking to expand the average monthly listeners for your show, YouTube might be the best next move.
MuddHouse Media specializes in all things podcasting. If you're looking to improve your sound and video editing or need an expert to focus on a marketing strategy for your podcast, get in contact with us today.
Preparing your YouTube Podcast
Before you upload every episode to YouTube, there are a few steps to take to help set you up for success. First, make sure your account and channel are entirely set up. This includes uploading a profile picture, adding a banner image, and filling in all of the basic information for your podcast. Take advantage of the description section on your channel. This is where you can add links to your website, upload any show notes, and links to your podcast's other social media channels. 
Conducting Essential Research
Market research is also critical when it comes to seeing success on YouTube. Research other podcasts that are similar to yours on YouTube, Reddit, and Facebook to see what type of success they're receiving. This will let you know what subjects users are interested in and how they might engage with your channel.
Next, it's important to research your topics before jumping right into recording. Not only will this help you stay on track and define each of your videos, but it will show you how your competition has approached the topics and give you the upper hand.
Advertising your Podcast on YouTube
When moving toward paid ads for your podcast YouTube channel, the first thing you'll need to do is create a Google ads account (since Google owns YouTube). Next, determine how long you want your video advertisement to be. This is a great time to use your podcast trailer or to create one if you don't have one. Make sure your trailer includes:
- The title of your podcast
- What your podcast is about
- How users can listen to your podcast
After you've created your video or trailer for your podcast, make sure you iron out the details of the ad. This includes the specific goal you want to meet, how much you're willing to spend, how long you want your ad to run for, and the demographic of your target audience.
Benefits of Using YouTube for your Podcast
Reach a Visual Audience
Uploading your podcast to YouTube can have a ton of benefits, whether you are recording a video or not. If you are going with the audio-only approach, this creates an opportunity for visual learners. Reach this audience on YouTube by editing and uploading charts, pictures, colors, and other forms of visual art to your episode or highlight. This also gives you an opportunity to tailor to those who are deaf and hard of hearing.
Create Engagement with Comments
YouTube opens up the opportunity to create conversations with your listeners. There aren't any comment sections on popular podcast platforms like Spotify or Apple. Using YouTube allows your listeners to interact with you in real-time during live shows, and they can provide feedback (to which you can respond to). This creates a sense of community for you and your followers.
Premium Podcasting Content
Lastly, using YouTube allows for new opportunities for monetization by uploading additional video content. Paying supporters are given access to any "Unlisted" content you upload. Be sure also to mark this exclusive content as "Private" and send it out to your email list, so they are the only ones with access. This step requires a bit of extra work for each video, but it's guaranteed to keep your content exclusive.
Elevate your Podcast with MuddHouse Media
MuddHouse Media provides high-quality services to new or existing podcast hosts. If you are new to podcasting and are ready to work with a team of podcast experts, let us help you meet your goals. MuddHouse Media also creates partnership opportunities with existing podcasts and potential sponsors. Email us today to get started.
