Abbey the Podcast Lady
Thinking about starting a podcast for your brand or business? Welcome to Abbey the Podcast Lady, where I help entrepreneurs, coaches, and creatives turn that podcast dream into a polished, professional reality. Abbey the Podcast Lady is all about breaking down podcasting to help beginner podcasters get a better idea of the industry and how they can find their place in it. We do case studies talking about how different podcasts operate, what they are doing well that you can apply to your own show, and what they could improve to spark ideas of where you can improve as well...
Lessons From Jimothy the Raccoon for Every New Podcaster
Takeaways
Abbey breaks down four surprising podcasting lessons using Jimothy the viral raccoon, starting with the truth that feeling weird and out of place is a normal part of starting something new.People will silently watch a podcast for a long time before they ever engage, and that quiet stretch is not a sign to quit, it is part of how real growth happens.Becoming iconic in your niche does not require reinventing yourself. It requires being unapologetically, consistently you.This week's episode almost did not happen the way it did. Abbey had a completely...
The Best Podcast Gear for Recording On the Go
Podcasting Gear for On-The-Go: https://www.amazon.com/shop/abbey-thesmalltowntourist/list/29FTTQQVAALCM?tag=abbeyminke-20&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_d&ccs_id=217bd1aa-de0b-40c7-ba67-820474a2f9d1
Takeaways
Modern podcast technology has made it possible to record a professional-sounding show from almost anywhere, including a dock at the lake, a car, or a sports bar back room.You do not need expensive gear to start a podcast. A cell phone and the built-in Voice Memo app is enough to get a show off the ground.The best recording setup is...Why You're Too Scared to Start Your Podcast (And Why That's Normal)
Takeaways
Confidence comes after you start, not before. Waiting to feel ready is the biggest reason new podcasters never launch.Your first episode is not a preview of your final product. Audiences expect some rough edges from anyone starting something new.Delaying a launch to keep recording and building confidence is a valid strategy, not a failure, as long as you keep showing up.In this solo episode, Abbey Graves tackles the number one thing holding people back from starting a podcast: fear. Not fear of the tech, not fear of the schedule, but the fear of...
Is Anyone Actually Going to Listen to My Podcast?
Takeaways
You do not need an established audience or 10,000 listeners to start a podcast. Nearly every successful creator, from Amy Poehler to Taylor Swift, started with an audience of almost no one and built from there.Audiences are far more silent than you realize. Most people who consume your content will never like, comment, or share it, but that does not mean they are not listening.A podcast is evergreen. With the right SEO, titles, and show notes in place, episodes keep finding new listeners for months or years after you hit publish, even if you stop making...6 Podcast Wins You'll Never Be Able to Measure
In this solo episode of Abbey the Podcast Lady, Abbey Graves digs into the side of podcasting that the analytics dashboards can never capture. If you have ever wondered whether your podcast is "working" based on your download numbers, this episode will shift your perspective on what success in podcasting actually looks like.
Abbey walks through six unseen ROI categories that come from hosting a podcast consistently: accelerated trust with your audience, unexpected opportunities and connections, becoming top of mind in your industry, building familiarity at scale, becoming part of someone's daily routine, and capturing stories before...
Why You Should Start a Podcast Even When It Feels Like Everyone Already Has One
Takeaways
Only 15% of podcasts on Apple Podcasts have released an episode in the last 90 days, which means consistency alone puts you ahead of the competition.Your lived experience is completely unique, and no one else has had your exact journey, your perspective, or your voice, which makes your podcast irreplaceable even in a crowded niche.Your podcast is your owned marketing platform. Guest appearances are great, but they can't replace the audience you build when you show up consistently on your own show.In this episode, Abbey Graves breaks down the three most common arguments she hears...
Don't Let Summer Slow Your Podcast Down (And Vice Versa)
Takeaways
Batch your summer podcast content with a miniseries: pick one broad topic, break it into three to five subtopics, and record it all in one sitting.The podcasters winning in Q4 are the ones who stayed consistent in Q2 and Q3. Summer is not an off season for your show.Give yourself grace but not a pass. Missing one week is fine. Dropping your show entirely is not.Summer is the season most podcasters quietly fall off the wagon, and in this episode, Abbey Graves is talking about why that happens and what to do instead...
How I Built a Business Out of Things I Did for Fun
Takeaways
Nearly 80% of Minnesota small businesses survive their first two years, and understanding what makes or breaks that milestone can help you build a more resilient business from day one.Losing clients, taking income hits, and pivoting fast are not signs of failure. They're exactly what self-employment looks like in real life.Building a business around the things you actually love doing is not a pipe dream. It's a strategy.Summary of the Episode
In this special milestone episode, Abbey Graves celebrates two full years of running Abbey Graves Productions as her primary source of...
How to Gamify Your Business and Make Entrepreneurship Fun with Paul Pape
Take Paul's Quiz: https://gamifybusiness.com/quiz/
Takeaways
Why most creatives struggle with traditional business educationHow gamification can make entrepreneurship easier to understandWhy building a loyal audience matters more than chasing viralityWhat happens when a creative entrepreneur turns business into a role-playing game?
In this episode, Abbey sits down with Paul Pape, creator of Gamify Business, designer, author, consultant, and self-described barkeep for entrepreneurs. Paul shares how helping creative business owners led him to build an entirely new framework that teaches entrepreneurship through gaming concepts.
Together they discuss why traditional...
Be the Disco Ball: Community Building Lessons for Entrepreneurs
Takeaways
Why strong communities create more opportunities than traditional networkingHow the DISCO Framework helps entrepreneurs build deeper relationshipsThe unexpected business growth that comes from showing up consistentlyIn this special live keynote episode, Abbey Graves shares her signature DISCO Framework for building meaningful community connections that create lasting impact in both life and business.
Drawing from stories as a podcast producer, DJ, entrepreneur, volunteer, and community leader, Abbey explains why the most successful people are not necessarily the wealthiest, but the people surrounded by the strongest villages.
Through personal stories about fundraising, entrepreneurship...
How Storytelling Shapes Confidence, Presence, and Success with Sandra Bargman
Takeaways
Sandra Bargman shares how acting, ministry, and storytelling all connect through authentic human connection.The BIG Approach teaches people to communicate through Breath, Intention, and Genuineness.Podcasting became a transformative outlet for Sandra during COVID and helped amplify her voice and mission.In this inspiring episode of Abbey the Podcast Lady, Abbey Graves sits down with actress, interfaith minister, storyteller, and podcast host Sandra Bargman for a powerful conversation about voice, presence, spirituality, and personal transformation.
Sandra shares her fascinating career journey from performing on stage and touring with legendary talents to...
Podcast FAQs: How Long Should Episodes Be and How Often Should You Publish?
Takeaways
A mix of solo and interview episodes creates consistency and authority in your niche.Podcast episode length should serve the content, not an arbitrary time requirement.Sustainable publishing schedules help creators avoid burnout and stay consistent.Summary of the Episode
In this FAQ-style episode of Abbey the Podcast Lady, Abbey Graves answers some of the most common questions new podcasters ask when they’re preparing to launch a show. From deciding between solo episodes and interviews to figuring out how often to publish, Abbey breaks down the realities of podcast production in a practical an...
The Unexpected Networking Power of Starting a Podcast
Takeaways
Podcasting can become a powerful networking tool, even when that is not the original goal.Guest conversations can lead to new business opportunities, partnerships, and community visibility.Starting a podcast can help establish your authority and grow your brand in meaningful ways.In this episode of Abbey the Podcast Lady, Abbey Graves shares an unexpected benefit of podcasting: networking. Drawing from her background in radio broadcasting and her transition into podcasting, Abbey explains how starting The Small Town Tourist helped her build authentic relationships, become more visible in her local community, and create new career opportunities...
The $10K an Hour Filter Every Business Owner Needs to Know
Takeaways
Entrepreneurs can unintentionally build a business that steals their time, energy, and presence at home.The 10K an Hour Filter helps founders identify which tasks to keep and which tasks to delegate.The Two-Week Vacation Test reveals where your business still depends too heavily on you and helps expose system gaps.In this episode of Abbey the Podcast Lady, Abbey Graves talks with entrepreneur George Rivera about how business owners can reclaim their time, reduce chaos, and become more present in their personal lives. George shares his journey from scaling multimillion-dollar companies to realizing that financial...
Starting a Podcast in 2026: Common Questions New Podcasters Ask
Takeaways
You do not need a big audience to start a podcast, but you do need a clear audience in mind.Podcasting success comes from consistency, systems, and a long-term mindset.Choosing a podcast niche starts with passion, expertise, and a topic you can keep talking about over time.In this episode of Abbey the Podcast Lady, Abbey Graves answers frequently asked questions about getting started with podcasting. She covers how to know if you are ready to launch a podcast, whether you need a large audience before starting, how to decide what to talk about, and...
How to Reclaim Your Time as a Podcaster and Grow Your Business
Takeaways
Hiring a podcast producer can save creators hours of editing and technical work each month.Professional podcast production helps experts present their message with more confidence and credibility.Repurposing podcast episodes into social media content can expand reach and improve discoverability.In this episode of Abbey the Podcast Lady, Abbey Graves sits down with client Dr. Mark A. Hicks to talk about his journey from DIY podcasting to a more professional, sustainable production workflow. Mark shares how he used to spend hours recording, editing, and second-guessing every episode before outsourcing the production side of his show.<...
5 Signs You’re Making Podcasting Harder Than It Needs to Be
Takeaways
Perfectionism is one of the fastest ways to make podcasting feel overwhelming.A simple, repeatable podcast workflow helps prevent burnout and keeps your show sustainable.Trusting your expertise and focusing on the right priorities makes podcasting easier and more effective.In this episode of Abbey the Podcast Lady, Abbey Graves shares five clear signs that you are making podcasting harder than it needs to be. She walks through common issues like perfectionism, lack of workflow, overthinking content, comparison, and trying to do too much too soon. Abbey also offers practical podcasting advice to help you simplify...
How to Turn Podcast Listeners into Sales Leads with Meta Ads
Takeaways
Set up your Meta ads account and install your Facebook pixel before you are ready to run ads so you can start collecting audience data early.Send podcast traffic to a dedicated landing page you own instead of directly to Spotify or Apple Podcasts.Strong podcast messaging and retargeting can help turn passive listeners into loyal fans and potential clients.In this episode of Abbey the Podcast Lady, Abbey Graves talks with Jackie Noelke, a Meta ads expert, about automated podcast growth and how podcasters can use paid ads to attract the right listeners. Jackie explains...
How to Take a Break From Your Podcast Without Losing Momentum
Takeaways
You can take a break from your podcast without losing momentum if you have evergreen content and a strong back catalog.Replay episodes and clip-style episodes are smart podcast strategies for staying active during a busy season.Repurposing unshared content like reels, blogs, and pins can help maintain visibility without recording new episodes.In this episode of Abbey the Podcast Lady, Abbey Graves shares how podcasters can step back from weekly production without losing audience momentum. She explains why evergreen podcast episodes, SEO-friendly show notes, and a solid content library can continue driving downloads even when...
How to Turn Your Podcast Into Public Speaking Opportunities with Marianne Hickman
Takeaways
Podcasters already have a stage and can use their show as a stepping stone into public speaking.Building your own events and opportunities is often the fastest way to grow as a speaker.Podcasting builds credibility, visibility, SEO value, and stronger audience relationships.The best speakers focus on serving the audience rather than sounding perfect.Social media is rented space, so creators should also build email lists and owned platforms.https://mariannehickman.com/guest
In this episode of Abbey the Podcast Lady, Abbey Graves sits down with Marianne Hickman to explore the connection between...
3 Reasons to Add Video to Your Podcast (And 3 Reasons to Not)
Takeaways
Apple Podcasts adding video in 2026 is about keeping listeners in-app—not replacing YouTube.Video can improve retention, boost visibility, and expand your content repurposing options.You shouldn’t add video if it overwhelms your workflow, stretches your budget, or your audience prefers audio-only.Apple Podcasts is rolling out video podcasting in 2026, and podcasters are asking what it means for workflow, hosting, and growth. Abbey breaks down why Apple’s move is less about competing with YouTube and more about keeping users inside the Apple Podcasts ecosystem. She shares three reasons video may be worth adding—retention, standing...
Don’t Be Caged By Your Age: Why Podcasting Is Powerful After 50 (and Beyond)
In this engaging conversation, Abbey Graves and Ande Lyons explore the world of podcasting, emphasizing that it is a medium for all ages. Ande shares her journey into podcasting later in life, highlighting the importance of age diversity and challenging ageism in the tech industry. They discuss the value of experience, building confidence with age, and the low barrier to entry for starting a podcast. The conversation also touches on the significance of community in podcasting and the role of events in fostering connections among podcasters.
Takeaways
Podcasting is a powerful tool for connection and learning...How to Run a Successful Podcast Without a Team
In this episode of Abbey the Podcast Lady, Abbey discusses the challenges and advantages of solo podcasting. She emphasizes that many podcasters start alone and feel overwhelmed, but with the right strategies, they can succeed. Abbey busts the myth that a team is necessary for success, encourages listeners to simplify their workflows, and provides monetization strategies that don't require a massive audience. She also addresses the issue of burnout, offering insights on how to manage it effectively. The episode concludes with a motivational message, reinforcing that solo podcasting can be a superpower when approached with intention and clarity.
<...Live Podcasting 101: Creating Real-Time Community with Your Show
In this episode of Abbey the Podcast Lady, Abbey sits down with Jeff Revilla, an enthusiast and innovator in live podcasting. Jeff shares his journey from his early, unsuccessful attempts at podcasting to his current passion for live, in-person shows. They discuss the benefits of using services like PodMatch for networking, and explore how live podcasting can build community and expand audience engagement. Jeff provides actionable advice for podcasters looking to bring their shows into a live setting, including leveraging local spaces like coffee shops and libraries. He also discusses the potential for podcast theaters as new community hubs...
The Easiest Way to Start a Podcast in 2026: Micro Podcasting
Takeaways
"You don't need a 60-minute podcast to stay top of mind with your target audience.""It's not about doing more; this is about finally having a simple, sustainable rhythm that you can keep up with.""This is meant to be light and focused, super serving your audience.""I want to see people succeed with this micro podcasting.""If you've been dabbling with the idea of podcasting, this is a great way to ease into it."In this episode of Abbey the Podcast Lady, Abbey Graves shares her recent experiences at Podfest 2026 in Orlando, Florida, where she...
From Broadcasting to Podcasting: How it Can Change Lives with Scott Miller
In this engaging episode of 'Abbey, the Podcast Lady,' host Abbey welcomes special guest Scott Miller to share his fascinating life stories from his long career in broadcasting to his recent success in podcasting. Scott recounts his unexpected start in radio at 16, his adventures in TV sports broadcasting, and a daring encounter with a wrestling bear. He opens up about his personal life, including a romantic reunion with his high school prom date that ended in heartbreak, and his subsequent marriage to a Costa Rican woman. Scott also delves into his journey towards building a successful podcast—The Lo...
How to Build Trust & Income with Authority Podcasting
In this episode, Abbey Graves interviews Dennis "DM" Meador, a seasoned digital entrepreneur and podcaster. DM shares his journey as a digital nomad, discussing his experiences in the internet space over the past 20 years. He delves into the evolution of his podcasting journey, highlighting the importance of production value and the impact of his work on the podcasting community in Austin. DM also provides insights into monetizing podcasts, emphasizing the value of authority podcasting as a means to build trust and expertise in professional fields. The conversation concludes with DM's innovative plans for future podcasting projects and his commitment...
Mastering the Art of Podcast Guesting with Julie Marty-Pearson
In this episode, Abbey and Julie Marty-Pearson discuss the importance of women in podcasting, strategies for being a great podcast guest, and how to maximize visibility through guest appearances. They explore the significance of collaboration, networking, and community within the podcasting space, as well as practical tools and tips for pitching oneself effectively to podcast hosts. Julie shares insights from her experience in the industry and emphasizes the need for passion and strategy in podcasting.
Takeaways
Julie has been in the podcasting space for four to five years.Her role is to help women own their...Treating Your Podcast Like a Business Starting From Day One with Virginia Elder
In this episode of Abbey the Podcast Lady, Abbey welcomes Virginia Elder, a successful podcast producer and manager for financial professionals. They discuss their mutual experiences as women in the podcasting industry, the importance of strategic planning for podcast success, and the challenges of balancing business and content creation. Virginia shares her journey from financial struggle to podcast production, highlighting the significance of targeting the right audience and creating sustainable podcasting strategies. They also delve into Virginia’s services, particularly her comprehensive 60-day podcast launch package designed to ensure clients confidently promote their podcasts. Tune in to hear insightful ad...
Embrace Uncertainty, Inspire Others: Jim Tracy’s Secrets to Success in Speaking & Podcasting
In this episode, Abbey Graves interviews Jim Tracy, a multifaceted individual with a rich background in various trades and public speaking. Jim shares his journey from being a welder to becoming a sought-after speaker and podcaster. He discusses the importance of embracing uncertainty in both personal and professional life, the impact of public speaking, and the significance of audience engagement. Jim also highlights his podcast, 'The Grampion,' and the milestones he has achieved, including reaching over 50,000 subscribers. The conversation emphasizes the value of connection, feedback, and the power of storytelling in inspiring others.
Takeaways
Jim...Avoid Overspending: Smart Gear Choices for Podcasters This Holiday Season
In this bonus episode of Abbey the Podcast Lady, Abbey shares essential tips and recommendations for beginner podcasters, focusing on gear and software to consider during the holiday shopping season. She emphasizes the importance of starting with quality equipment, such as the Rode PodMic USB and Rode Wireless Go microphones, and highlights software options like Riverside, Descript, and Adobe Podcast. Abbey encourages aspiring podcasters to utilize what they have and not feel pressured to spend excessively to get started.
Takeaways
If you're a beginner podcaster, start with a good microphone.The Rode PodMic USB is versatile...Batch Episodes & Build Systems with Seth Goldstein
In this episode of Abbey The Podcast Lady, Abbey interviews Seth Goldstein, a passionate podcaster and digital marketer. They discuss Seth's journey from journalism to digital marketing and eventually into podcasting, highlighting his experiences and milestones. Both Abbey and Seth share their love for the PodMatch system and the importance of having a robust website for podcasts. Seth emphasizes the value of setting expectations and banking episodes to avoid burnout. They also explore Seth's online course on the School platform and the evolution of his podcasts, including 'Entrepreneurs Enigma' and 'Digital Marketing Dive.' The conversation wraps up with...
How to Make Your Podcast Discoverable with Omni-Channel Marketing
In this episode, Abbey Graves interviews Melih Oztalay, a marketing expert and podcaster, discussing the importance of effective marketing strategies for podcasters. They explore the role of marketing agencies, the significance of podcast distribution, and how to leverage transcripts for content creation. Melih shares insights on adapting to change in marketing, the necessity of consistency in content creation, and the value of press release marketing. The conversation emphasizes the need for podcasters to utilize AI tools and develop a sustainable marketing approach.
Takeaways
Podmatch connects podcasters with relevant guests.Marketing agencies create strategies based...Why Every Podcaster Needs to Experience PodFest at Least Once
Get tickets for PodFest: https://podfestexpo.com/
In this episode of Abbey, The Podcast Lady, host Abbey Graves shares her transformative experience attending PodFest, a major podcasting conference held annually in Orlando, Florida. Abbey, a podcasting coach, producer, and speaker, recounts how her first visit to PodFest reshaped her perspective on podcasting, emphasizing the power of community and collaboration. She highlights key lessons learned, such as the importance of connection over perfection and the rapid evolution of the podcasting industry. Abbey also reveals her excitement about speaking at the upcoming PodFest, aiming to inspire and share valuable...
How Podcasting Can Change Your Life
In this heartfelt episode, Abbey The Podcast Lady, shares her personal journey of how podcasting transformed her life. From her beginnings as a radio DJ to starting her own podcast 'The Small Town Tourist,' Abbey recounts the steps that led her to build a successful podcast production business. Despite overcoming unexpected challenges and working long hours, Abbey's passion for podcasting propelled her to help others create their own shows. She highlights the pivotal moments and the connections she made that significantly impacted her career, culminating in opportunities like speaking at Pod Fest. This episode serves as an inspiring...
The Future of Audio: Is Podcasting Still Growing in 2025?
Join Abbey, a seasoned podcast producer and consultant, as she unpacks the evolution and current state of podcasting in 2025. In this episode, Abbey explores whether podcasting is still growing, the shifts in content creation, and the emerging trends shaping the future of audio. Discover the moderate yet sustainable growth rates, the rise of Gen Z listenership, and the expansion into non-English speaking markets. Abby also delves into the diversification of podcast monetization, the impact of AI in production, and the potential for live audio experiences. Whether you're a content creator or a podcast enthusiast, this episode provides actionable insights...
Homeschool History: A Masterclass in Engaging Educational Content
Welcome back to Abbey the Podcast Lady! In this monthly case study episode, Abbey breaks down the BBC Radio 4 podcast 'Homeschool History' hosted by Greg Jenner. She discusses what makes this show so captivating and educational for families, and how its clever use of sound design, targeted audience engagement, and effective episode format create a masterclass in short-form content. Abbey also shares her thoughts on areas for improvement and offers valuable takeaways for podcasters looking to enhance their own shows. Tune in for insights and tips on making educational content fun and accessible!
Chapters
00:00 Introduction...
Planning Your First 10 Podcast Episodes For Long-Term Success
Get the download mentioned in the episode: https://abbeygravesproductions.com/2025/08/21/plan-your-first-10-podcast-episodes-without-getting-overwhelmed/
In this episode of 'Abbey, The Podcast Lady,' Abbey Graves, an international podcast producer and consultant, delves into how to plan your first 10 podcast episodes. Abbey emphasizes the importance of not just focusing on one perfect episode but creating a consistent stream of quality content. She shares tips on brainstorming based on your goals and audience, balancing solo versus guest episodes, creating a content calendar, and titling episodes for better discoverability. The episode provides actionable steps to help beginners launch their podcasts...
How 'Free With Ads' Nails Authentic Podcasting
In this episode of Abbey the Podcast Lady, we dive into a case study of one of Abbey's favorite podcasts, 'Free With Ads,' hosted by Emily Fleming, Jordan Morris, and Matt Lieb of the Mythical Entertainment crew. Abbey discusses what the show does right, such as the genuine chemistry between hosts, creating an interactive experience for the listeners, and their inclusive, humorous approach. Abbey also offers insights on how podcasters can apply similar successful strategies to their own shows, including the importance of authenticity, removing barriers to entry, and maintaining a consistent format. The episode concludes with suggestions...
The First 5 Decisions You Need to Make When Starting a Podcast
In this episode of Abbey the Podcast Lady, Abbey Graves guides aspiring podcasters through the essential first five decisions to make when starting a podcast. She emphasizes the importance of defining the podcast's purpose, choosing the right format, establishing a consistent frequency, finding the right voice and vibe, and understanding the necessary technology. Abbey shares personal anecdotes and practical tips to help listeners navigate the podcasting journey with confidence and clarity.
Takeaways
Get crystal clear on your podcast's purpose.Choose a format that fits your strengths and schedule.Consistency matters more than frequency in podcasting.Your...