As It Relates to Podcasting with Simona Costantini

If your podcast stopped growing, you are likely stuck in a podcast plateau: your effort goes up, your downloads stay flat, and the cause is almost never the algorithm. It is a broken system. You are finding guests, recording, editing, and publishing on schedule, yet your episodes are not reaching the people you made them for. Podcast growth is not random. It happens when your systems work together, and when one system is weak, it bottlenecks everything else. That is why more content will not fix a broken system.

In this episode of As It Relates to...

Podcast growth in 2026 means more than climbing the charts on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. It means showing up as the answer when someone asks an AI platform a question in your niche. If your show isn't coming up in those answers, the listeners who need you most can't find you. And in every workshop Simona Costantini has led lately, podcasters say the same thing: they're struggling to connect with their audience and get in front of the right people.

In this episode of As It Relates to Podcasting, Simona Costantini, Founder and CEO of VOLT Productions and...

AI for podcasters is everywhere in 2026.

But faster does not automatically mean better.

In this episode of As It Relates to Podcasting, Simona breaks down the right way to use AI in your podcast workflow without sacrificing originality, emotional nuance, or trust with your audience.

AI can help you move faster. It can help you outline episodes, generate show notes, draft captions, pull timestamps, and simplify editing. But when you let AI lead your thought leadership, storytelling, or point of view, your show becomes generic. And generic podcasts do not grow.

...

How do you grow a podcast in 2026 when you have no team, no momentum, and no audience?

If I had to start from zero today, I would not try to do more. I would not try to be everywhere. And I definitely would not chase algorithms.

In this episode of As It Relates to Podcasting, I walk you through exactly how to grow a podcast in 2026 from scratch and what I would do differently if I were rebuilding everything from the ground up.

This is not about hacks. It is not about volume...

Why is my podcast not growing in 2026?

Most creators think they need better promotion, more episodes, or more content. The real issue is structural. Your podcast is not the product, and treating it like one is quietly stalling your growth.

If your podcast is the only thing you’re building, your growth will always feel fragile.

Most creators are trying to grow downloads, followers, and subscribers. But they’re building their podcast like it’s the final product instead of what it actually is: the front door to everything else they do.

In t...

Video podcasting is everywhere, but most creators are adding video without understanding what problem it actually solves.

In this episode of As It Relates to Podcasting, Simona Costantini breaks down when video actually helps your podcast grow, when it quietly hurts your momentum, and why audio still does the heavy lifting when it comes to trust, retention, and long-term loyalty.

This episode dismantles the myth that every podcast must be video-first. You’ll learn why video is a distribution strategy, not a requirement, how YouTube really evaluates content, and why clarity, structure, and consistency matter mo...

Growing a podcast in 2026 has nothing to do with posting everywhere or chasing virality. It has everything to do with being findable, useful, and sticky.

In this episode of As It Relates to Podcasting, Simona Costantini breaks down exactly how she would grow a podcast from zero to 1,000 downloads today, without burning out or flooding social media. This episode is a practical roadmap for creators who want sustainable, search-driven growth instead of short-lived spikes.

You’ll learn why discoverability beats marketing, how to choose topics people are actively searching for, and how to structure episodes so...

How to grow a podcast in 2026 isn’t about posting everywhere or marketing harder. It’s about podcast discoverability, building a show that platforms can understand and listeners can find through search.

In this solo episode of As It Relates to Podcasting, Simona Costantini explains why discoverability beats marketing in 2026, and how to grow a podcast organically by improving the parts most creators ignore: podcast titles for search, the first two lines of your episode description, consistent topic signals, and a simple SEO approach that helps Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube categorize your content correctly.

If y...

If you had to launch a podcast in 2026 with zero audience, zero momentum, and no shortcuts, you wouldn’t start with fancy gear or “clever” branding. You’d start with being found.

In this solo episode of As It Relates to Podcasting, Simona Costantini breaks down exactly how she’d launch from scratch today, using what actually works now: search-first episode design, a trailer plus a 3-episode drop, content buckets that help platforms categorize you, and a distribution workflow built before you ever hit publish.

You’ll learn how to write titles that match what people are a...

Podcasting in 2026 is less about flashy tools and more about sustainable workflows, clean execution, and respecting the listener experience.

In this episode of As It Relates to Podcasting, Simona Costantini is joined by Emily, Lead Editor at VOLT Productions, for an honest, behind-the-scenes conversation about what podcast producers actually notice, fix, and wish creators understood sooner.

Drawing from years of editing experience across hundreds of episodes, this episode breaks down producer-level insights around retakes, recording habits, microphones, headphones, lighting, clothing, ad reads, AI editing tools, and how small production decisions quietly impact listener retention, completion...

Podcast growth in 2026 will not be driven by hacks, viral clips, or chasing charts. It will be built through community, discoverability on YouTube, intentional use of AI, and sustainable creator ecosystems.

In this forward-looking episode of As It Relates to Podcasting, Simona Costantini sits down with Kendall from Riverside.FM to unpack what is actually changing inside the podcasting industry and what creators must adapt to now in order to grow next year and beyond.

They explore the rise of YouTube as the dominant podcast discovery engine, the shift toward mid-form video, the truth about...

Podcast rankings look glossy on the surface, but what do they actually mean for your growth, your revenue, and your long-term visibility?

In this data-rich episode of As It Relates to Podcasting, Simona Costantini is joined by Megan Dougherty, creator of the State of Business Podcasting Report, and Ana Xavier, founder of The Podcast Space, to unpack the real truth behind podcast rankings, retention, and sustainable growth heading into 2026.

Together, they dissect what the Top 100 Business Podcasts data truly reveals about churn, completion rates, publishing frequency, discoverability, video adoption, guest strategy, and why so many...

Your podcast is live, but now the real journey begins. Growth is where your show becomes a brand, a business asset, and a tool that compounds in visibility and authority.

In this episode of As It Relates to Podcasting, host Simona Costantini wraps up the 10-week launch series by diving into the strategies that take your show beyond day one. You’ll learn how to interpret your podcast analytics, measure the right KPIs, refine your content with intention, and evolve your show based on listener behavior and performance trends.

Simona also dives into how to bu...

Launching a podcast in 2025 takes more than passion, it takes strategy.

Your podcast doesn’t grow just because it’s good. It grows because it’s launched with purpose and precision.

In this episode of As It Relates to Podcasting, host Simona Costantini walks you step-by-step through your podcast launch timeline, including when to release your trailer, how many episodes to drop on launch day, and how to choose a publishing cadence that helps your show grow long-term.

You’ll learn how to map out your trailer, launch day, and early release schedule so that...

Your podcast doesn’t grow just because it’s good, it grows because people see it.

In this episode of As It Relates to Podcasting, host Simona Costantini breaks down exactly how to turn your show into a visibility engine – using YouTube thumbnails, Instagram Reels, and LinkedIn clips that actually convert.

You’ll learn how to design graphics that attract attention, create clips that connect emotionally, and promote episodes across platforms with ease. Simona walks you through the difference between visibility and virality, and how to build a consistent content ecosystem that keeps your podcast top of m...

You don’t need to change your entire show to grow your audience. You just need to speak the language the algorithm understands.

In this episode of As It Relates to Podcasting, Simona breaks down how to choose the right podcast categories and metadata so your show ranks higher, reaches the right listeners, and gets discovered by AI-driven search in 2025.

You’ll learn how to make the algorithm your ally, future proof your podcast for large language model optimization (LLMO), and finally understand how categories impact chart rankings on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube.

In...

You don’t need a Hollywood studio to start a podcast. You just need the right tools, clarity, and confidence to press record.

In this episode of As It Relates to Podcasting, Simona breaks down exactly how to create a pro-level podcast setup using what you already have, whether you’re recording from your kitchen table or your laptop on the road.

You’ll learn how to make your audio sound professional, your video look polished, and your workflow feel simple, sustainable, and strategic.

Inside this episode:

Your microphone isn’t the reason your podcast sounds flat, your energy is.

In this episode of As It Relates to Podcasting, you’ll learn how to use music, tone, and emotion to transform your episodes from “just okay” to captivating.

We’re talking about the invisible ingredients that make listeners stay: your voice, your vibe, and the sound that sets your brand apart.

Inside this episode:

Your first 30 seconds can make or break your podcast.

In this episode of As It Relates to Podcasting, we’re breaking down how to create intros, outros, and trailers that actually hook your listeners — and keep them coming back for more.

You’ll learn:

Whether you’re launching your first show or refreshing your current one, this episode will help you...

Your podcast cover art isn’t decoration, it’s the billboard for your show. In today’s episode of As It Relates to Podcasting, I’m breaking down exactly how to create podcast artwork that stops the scroll, builds trust, and attracts listeners.

You’ll learn:

✅ Why your face + name beat a generic logo for building authority

✅ When to avoid using your face (and what to do instead)

✅ The biggest cover art mistakes podcasters make (tiny fonts, busy backgrounds, inconsistent branding)

✅ How to test your podcast artwork against competitors so it stands out<...

Why do some podcasts become binge-worthy while others fade into the noise?

In this episode, I reveal the two foundations every successful podcast needs: a strong concept and a clear mission statement.

Whether you’re launching your first show or rebranding an existing one, this step-by-step breakdown will help you design a podcast that grabs attention and keeps listeners coming back.

You’ll discover:

✅ The difference between your podcast concept (format, style, and angle) and your mission (purpose and promise)

✅ How to choose the right format and style for your sho...

Why 2025 is the best year to start a podcast? 🎙️ In this video, I break down the podcasting trends and strategies for 2025 that make now the perfect time to launch.

Whether you’re brand new or have been sitting on an idea for a while, this step-by-step guide to launching a podcast in 2025 will help you cut through the noise and claim your stage.

You’ll discover:

✅ Why YouTube and Spotify are the fastest-growing podcast platforms

✅ How to grow your podcast audience with YouTube and Spotify search

✅ The role of AI in podcast d...

What if your brain wasn’t a barrier to podcasting—but your biggest creative asset? In this powerful roundtable episode, host Simona Costantini sits down with the incredible team at VOLT Productions to talk about what it really looks like to podcast while neurodivergent.

From organization hacks to emotional honesty, this convo is packed with real talk, funny moments, and powerful strategies for thriving as a creator with ADHD (or other neurospicy traits). Whether you're a podcaster, podcast manager, or content creator, you’ll leave with permission to do it your way.

👯‍♀️ Featuring: Simona, Emily, Robin, and Vero...

Summer doesn’t have to mean your podcast goes silent.

In this episode of As It Relates to Podcasting, I’m sharing the 3 intentional ways I’m prepping my podcast for summer—without burning out or ghosting my audience. If you’ve ever fallen off the podcast consistency wagon (hi, it’s me 🙋‍♀️), this episode is your gentle reset and practical game plan.

We’re talking about real-life podcast strategy: reconnecting with your why, simplifying your content workflow, and building a system that supports your creativity and your time off. Whether you’re navigating a busy season, moving homes...

Running one podcast is hard. Running multiple podcasts while growing two businesses? Nearly impossible… unless you have the right systems in place.

In this episode of As It Relates to Podcasting, Simona shares her exact behind-the-scenes workflow for managing multiple podcasts, a full roster of client shows, and her production agency—all without burning out.

You’ll learn how to set up a sustainable podcast workflow, delegate with ease (even if you don’t have a team yet), and why North Flow—her go-to podcast project management tool—is a total game-changer.

Whether you’re a solo...

Thinking about starting a podcast? Or maybe you're knee-deep in episodes and wondering how to keep growing without burning out?

In this episode of As It Relates to Podcasting, I’m diving into one spicy Reddit thread that asked: "What do you wish you knew before starting your first podcast?" — and I’m weighing in with my expert take as a podcast producer and strategist.

You’ll learn:

✅ The #1 mistake new podcasters make (and how to avoid it)

✅ How to stay motivated when your downloads feel slow

✅ Editing hacks that save HOUR...

Pressing pause doesn’t mean you’re giving up. It might just be the smartest growth move you can make for your podcast.

In this episode of As It Relates to Podcasting, we’re dismantling the myth that consistency means never taking a break—and exploring how intentional pauses can actually help you come back stronger. If you've been feeling out of alignment, burned out, or unsure about the direction of your show, this episode will help you reset without guilt.

I’m sharing my own story of putting Happiness Happens on hiatus, the fears I faced, a...

Traveling doesn’t mean your podcast has to hit pause.

In this episode of As It Relates to Podcasting, I’m sharing how to stay consistent with your show even when you’re living out of a suitcase. Whether you’re hopping between countries, speaking at events, or managing life between two homes, this episode walks you through the exact tools, setup, and mindset you need to keep your show on track—without compromising quality or your sanity.

From simplifying your tech to planning content that travels well, I’ll show you how to create a portable p...

Think you need a massive audience to launch your podcast? Think again.

In this episode of As It Relates to Podcasting, I’m walking you through how to go from zero to your first 100 listeners—without fancy tech, expensive ads, or a giant following. Whether you're in the idea stage or gearing up to launch, this one’s your official permission slip to start, imperfectly and intentionally.

We’ll dig into everything from creating a compelling name and irresistible hook, to choosing your must-have tech, building pre-launch buzz, and optimizing your show for searchability. Plus, I’m shar...

Ever feel like you’re doing everything to launch your podcast, yet something keeps holding you back? Maybe it’s uncertainty, maybe it’s overwhelm, or maybe it’s just not knowing where to start.

Spoiler alert: Validating your podcast idea before you hit record is the key to ensuring your show has an audience waiting for it.

In this episode of As It Relates to Podcasting, I’m breaking down how to validate your podcast idea and strategically plan for growth so you don’t create a show that no one listens to. We’re talking abo...

Ever feel like you’re doing everything to launch your podcast, yet something keeps holding you back? Maybe it’s perfectionism, maybe it’s overwhelm, or maybe it’s just not knowing what you don’t know.

Spoiler alert: It’s often the tiny things that sabotage your success before you even hit publish.

In this episode of As It Relates to Podcasting, I’m breaking down the three biggest ways podcasters unknowingly self-sabotage their launches—and what you can do instead. From overthinking every tiny detail to skipping strategy and ignoring SEO, these are the roadblocks k...

Ever feel like there are a million rules about what your podcast should look like? That you must have video, the best mic, the perfect format, or else you’re doomed to fail? 🚨 Spoiler alert: You don’t need to follow every so-called “best practice” to create a successful podcast.

In this episode of As It Relates to Podcasting, I break down the myths and “shoulds” that podcasters feel pressured to follow. I also share why chasing perfection can actually hold you back, why your why matters more than fancy gear, and how to embrace the creative journey of podc...

Ever wonder why some podcast ads make people buy instantly while others get skipped? If you’re a podcaster looking to monetize, understanding what makes an ad effective is essential to converting listeners into customers.

In this episode of As It Relates to Podcasting, Simona Costantini and Emily dive deep into the psychology behind podcast ads, discussing what makes listeners trust (or completely ignore) sponsored products. They break down real-life examples, ad placement strategies, and the secret to making host-read ads feel authentic (not like a cash grab).

Whether you're a podcaster looking for sponsorships or...

As a podcaster, are you unknowingly holding your show back? If you want to grow your audience, increase engagement, and finally build the podcast you love in 2025, it’s time to break up with these 10 toxic habits that might be sabotaging your success.

In this episode of As It Relates to Podcasting, Simona Costantini, founder of VOLT Productions, walks you through the 10 podcasting mistakes that are keeping you stuck—and how to ditch them for good. From perfectionism to lazy promotion, she shares real talk, strategic fixes, and the mindset shifts you need to make 2025 your year of p...

As a podcaster or YouTuber, have you planned your strategy to grow your audience, boost engagement, and monetize your content in 2025? If not, you're in the right place. Here are five transformative strategies that you simply can't afford to ignore!

In this episode of As It Relates to Podcasting, Simona, founder of Volt Productions, shares the five essential strategies for maximizing video content in 2025. With podcasting shifting towards video-first content, Simona dives deep into how creators can grow their audience, increase engagement, and monetize effectively.

Simona discusses the importance of incorporating video into podcasting, balancing...

Is your podcast set up for success? If you’re wondering why your show isn’t growing the way you want—or if you’re unsure how to improve—it’s time for a podcast audit.

In this episode of As It Relates to Podcasting, I break down exactly how to audit your podcast to ensure your branding, content, and strategy align with your goals and audience.

If you're ready to audit, refine, and elevate your podcast, this episode will give you the exact roadmap to start seeing results. Tune in now and start making changes that...

The podcasting landscape is evolving faster than ever, and staying ahead of the curve is key to growing your show. Whether you're an established podcaster or just starting, understanding the latest trends and strategies can set you up for success in 2025.

In this episode, I take a deep dive into emerging podcast trends, including the rise of video-first podcasting, the power of micro-content, and how AI is shaping the future of production. We’ll also explore actionable strategies for monetization, audience building, and the importance of staying authentic in a world of over-production.

Key topics in...

Goal-setting may not be the most glamorous aspect of podcasting, but it’s absolutely crucial. Just like any successful venture, your podcast needs a solid foundation and a well-defined roadmap to guide you toward your aspirations. 

In this episode, we dive into a behind-the-scenes look at a goal-setting call within the Podcast Success Vault membership. I share a glimpse into a planning session I lead, where members discuss their podcasting goals for 2025, share their aspirations, and outline actionable steps to achieve them. 

Key topics include the importance of setting podcast goals, strategies for...

Imagine having every tool you need to manage your podcast right at your fingertips. Sounds ideal, right? That's exactly what we’re crafting with NorthFlow, and today, I'm thrilled to take you behind the scenes of this game-changing project.

In this episode of As It Relates to Podcasting, I’m  introducing you to NorthFlow, an innovative podcast project management system designed to streamline podcast production and elevate efficiency. Joined by Taly, another one of NorthFlow’s founders, we discuss the importance of organization, time-saving automations, and effective collaboration features offered by NorthFlow. Ideal for podcasters and agencies, Northfl...

Is YouTube the missing key to your podcast’s success?

In today's digital landscape, YouTube has rapidly risen to be one of the foremost platforms for podcast discovery. If you're not yet leveraging YouTube for your podcast, you might be missing out on a massive opportunity to grow your audience and monetize your show. This episode explores why YouTube is a must for podcasters, how to create engaging videos, and the tools and strategies to make it happen.

Learn why YouTube is essential for podcasters, from improving discoverability and visual engagement to bo...