Tough love time Reader,

I had a conversation with a client last year that stopped me in my tracks.

"Harry," she said, "I've recorded 15 episodes and I'm still only getting 37 downloads per episode. What am I doing wrong?"

I took a deep breath. Because I knew exactly what was happening.

She was treating her podcast like a stage instead of a networking event.

Here's the uncomfortable truth I've learned after helping 130+ business owners launch their podcasts:

Most podcasts never get real results.

Not because podcasting doesn't work.
But because most people approach it all wrong.

They obsess over download numbers (which rarely move the needle for your business anyway).
They talk AT their audience instead of WITH potential clients.
They quit before the magic happens.

I made these exact same mistakes when I started.

I was so focused on sounding smart that I forgot the whole point was to build relationships.

The podcasters I've seen land five-figure clients don't have the fanciest equipment or the biggest audiences.

They have a completely different mindset.

They see each episode as a handshake, not a broadcast.

Here's what the winners do differently:

1) They invite ideal clients as guests (not just big names)

2) They listen more than they talk (ego check!)

3) They follow up after recording to deepen the relationship

4) They use episodes as reasons to connect, not just to show off expertise

5) They stay consistent, even when the download numbers are small

The microphone is just a tool.
Your intention behind it is everything.

Podcasting = Relationship Building (not content creation)

When someone hears your voice for 30 minutes, they feel like they know you in a way that no LinkedIn post or email can match. That trust is your real currency.

So here's my challenge to you:

If you're podcasting (or thinking about starting), ask yourself honestly:

"Am I using this as a stage or as a networking tool?"

Your answer will determine whether your podcast becomes expensive audio therapy or your best client acquisition channel.

The choice is yours.

But I know which one I'd pick.

​

With gratitude,

Harry 'Relationship Over Downloads' Duran

​

P.S. When you're ready to transform your podcast from a broadcasting platform into a client magnet, here's how I can help: