Let’s face it: listeners who never click “subscribe” are like friends who always say they’ll “catch up soon” but never call. Annoying, right? Luckily, you don’t need Jedi mind tricks to transform casual podcast listeners into loyal subscribers. Here’s the cheat sheet you didn’t know you needed.
Table of Contents
- 1. Bribery: Offer Exclusive Content
- 2. The “Cliffhanger” Technique
- 3. Subtle (Or Not-So-Subtle) Reminders
- 4. Make Subscribing Easier Than Ignoring Mom’s Calls
- 5. Let Listeners Feel Seen and Heard
- 6. Hidden Gem #1: Cross-Promotion with Fellow Podcasters
- 7. Hidden Gem #2: Irresistible Giveaways
1. Bribery: Offer Exclusive Content
Nothing gets a listener hitting subscribe faster than the promise of juicy, subscriber-only content. Bonus episodes, bloopers, or special interviews—you know, the stuff that makes them feel like VIPs. Yes, it’s bribery, but hey, it’s ethical bribery.
Don’t be afraid to promote your podcast – if you’re passionate about your message, share it with the world and let your audience grow organically.
Pat Flynn, host of Smart Passive Income
2. The “Cliffhanger” Technique
Why do TV shows end episodes right when you’re desperate for more? Because cliffhangers are the oldest trick in the entertainment playbook. Drop teasers about next week’s content. If listeners need to know if your co-host survived that spicy hot wing challenge, they’ll have no choice but to subscribe.
3. Subtle (Or Not-So-Subtle) Reminders
Listeners have short attention spans, like goldfish with AirPods. Remind them gently—and frequently—to subscribe. Sprinkle reminders throughout your podcast in humorous ways. Something like, “If you enjoyed this podcast even a tiny bit, subscribing won’t hurt—I promise it’s painless. Mostly.”
4. Make Subscribing Easier Than Ignoring Mom’s Calls
Don’t make podcast listeners work to subscribe. Put your subscription links everywhere: show notes, website, social media bios, bathroom walls (just kidding—sort of). Make subscribing so easy that skipping it feels harder than dealing with family drama during holidays.
Growing your podcast audience isn’t just about reaching more people – it’s about connecting with the right people who resonate with your message.
Jordan Harbinger, host of The Jordan Harbinger Show
5. Let Listeners Feel Seen and Heard
People subscribe when they feel connected. Engage listeners by answering questions on-air, reading reviews, or shouting out loyal fans. And speaking of feeling heard, don’t underestimate how much quality background music can elevate your podcast and encourage subscriptions. Check out our curated selection of music for podcasts to give your listeners an auditory hug.
6. Hidden Gem #1: Cross-Promotion with Fellow Podcasters
Collaborate with other podcasters in your niche to swap shout-outs or even guest appearances. Their loyal fans can quickly become your new subscribers, and you’ll look generous in the process. Win-win!
7. Hidden Gem #2: Irresistible Giveaways
Who doesn’t love free stuff? Offering irresistible giveaways or contests in exchange for subscribing creates buzz and excitement. Be creative: merch, tickets, or even a personalized voicemail from your hilarious co-host.
Try these tips, and your casual podcast listeners won’t just subscribe—they’ll wonder how they ever lived without your podcast brilliance.