How Gary Stocker Used Podcasting to Expose a Crumbling College System (And Built a Business Doing It)

How Gary Stocker Used Podcasting to Expose a Crumbling College System (And Built a Business Doing It)

If you’ve ever thought about launching a podcast and were told to “find your niche,” take notes from Gary Stocker.

Gary didn’t just find a niche. He started from scratch and created his own.

He launched This Week in College Viability, a podcast that boldly calls out financial instability in higher education. It challenges bloated college marketing narratives and most impressively, powers a real business that helps families and schools alike understand which institutions are financially sustainable. After all, higher education is a huge investment. People want to make sure that they are not only investing in their education, but doing it with a financially sound institution.

Saving Lives with a Podcast

Saving Lives with a Podcast

When Jason Stone was diagnosed with stage four prostate cancer, he knew he had to do something—but instead of hiding, he hit record. He launched a YouTube channel and podcast to share his raw, unfiltered journey. What started as a deeply personal form of storytelling has grown into a powerful platform that’s helping thousands of men better understand, confront, and navigate prostate cancer.

Podcasting Making a Superpower: How Nicolas Comstock Turned His Voice Into a Tool for Advocacy and Change

Podcasting Making a Superpower: How Nicolas Comstock Turned His Voice Into a Tool for Advocacy and Change

What if someone told you you were unemployable?

For Nicolas Comstock, that was a reality that he turned into his motivation. Instead of accepting limitations, he carved out a platform, a community, and a purpose through podcasting. Your story or situation is statistically speaking, different that his. If you’re a small business owner, marketing manager, or a content creator-in-the-making, his journey of overcoming by adapting is one you need to hear.

Why Your Podcast’s Origin Story Matters: Lessons from Kevin Anthony of The Love Lab

Why Your Podcast’s Origin Story Matters: Lessons from Kevin Anthony of The Love Lab

This episode marks a turning point for us at Pedal Stomper Productions. We’re pivoting our podcast to spotlight one essential question: Why did you start your podcast, and what lessons have you learned? Our first guest in this new format sets a high bar. Kevin Anthony of The Love Lab Podcast has a show with over 105,000 YouTube subscribers and when you hear him speak, we think you'll know why.

What to Do When Your Podcast Episode Flops (And How to Avoid It Next Time)

What to Do When Your Podcast Episode Flops (And How to Avoid It Next Time)

Yes, that podcast episode might suck. Now what? Every podcaster has been there. You record an episode, play it back, and all you can think is, "Oof. That was bad." Maybe it was a rough delivery, an unprepared guest, or you just had an off day. The good news is that one bad episode doesn’t define your show. The better news is that you can bounce back stronger—and we’re going to show you how. Let's face it, you learn the most when you make a mistake. 

Beyond the Mic: Innovative Podcast Formats That Build Your Brand

Beyond the Mic: Innovative Podcast Formats That Build Your Brand

In today's digital landscape, traditional podcast formats like solo monologues or standard interviews are not the only option that you have in order to captivate audiences. For small business owners and marketing managers aiming to amplify their brand's voice, embracing innovative podcast formats can be a game-changer. Let's delve into some creative approaches that can elevate your brand storytelling and foster deeper audience engagement.

Podfade Kills Podcasts

Podfade Kills Podcasts

84% of podcasts fade into silence—and yours doesn’t have to be one of them.

If you’ve launched a podcast to support your brand, you’ve already taken a bold and powerful step in content marketing. Sustaining that show is where so many others hit a wall. It’s called podfade, and it’s the silent killer of podcast dreams. One week you’re dropping weekly episodes, and the next thing you know, it’s been three months and your feed is gathering dust.

Is a Branded Podcast Right for Your Business? Here’s How to Find Out

Podcasting is booming. Just because it's popular, that doesn't mean that it’s the right move for you or your business. Before you grab a mic and start recording, let’s answer the big question: Is a branded podcast a smart investment—or a distraction—for your business goals?

In our blog post this week, we are going to look at some of the key considerations in figuring this out. Whether you're a small business owner or a marketing manager, here’s some of the things that you should be considering in order to know that you are making the right call.

🎯 Step 1: Define Your Podcasting Purpose

A branded podcast can do a lot—but it shouldn't try to do everything. Start by identifying your main goal. Most successful business podcasts fall into one of four categories:

  • Lead generation

  • Thought leadership

  • Relationship building

  • Branded content creation

If your goal doesn’t fall into one of those, pause and reassess. A podcast should support your broader marketing strategy, not exist in a vacuum or as a solo effort.

🧠 Step 2: Understand Your Audience (Are They Even Podcast Listeners?)

Not every audience consumes content the same way. While younger and mid-career professionals often tune in during commutes or workouts, other demographics may prefer blogs, emails, or social media. Create a listener persona—an “avatar”—and ask: Would this person listen to a podcast?

If your ideal client is scrolling Instagram or TikTok, a podcast might be step two—not step one.

⏳💰 Step 3: Evaluate Your Resources

Here’s the reality: podcasting takes time or money. Sometimes both.

If you're handling everything—research, recording, editing, posting—that’s a serious time investment. If you’d rather save time, you’ll need to budget for a professional service.

Either way, understand the commitment and be honest about what you can realistically sustain.

🎙️ Step 4: Choose the Right Voice for Your Brand

You don’t have to be the host—someone on your team might have the charisma and expertise to carry the show. Whoever’s behind the mic should be passionate, knowledgeable, and represent your brand authentically.

Don’t underestimate the value of a host with the gift of gab and a clear message.

📈 Step 5: Set Realistic Expectations

Launching a podcast won’t make you an overnight sensation. Be wary of services that promise 10,000 subscribers in a week. Those numbers are often inflated (sometimes literally, by bots or cell phone farms).

Focus instead on organic growth, meaningful engagement, and a long-term content strategy that supports your business goals.

🤖 Step 6: Use AI (But Keep It Human)

AI tools can now help with everything from editing and distribution to researching episode topics and personalizing content. At Pedal Stomper Productions, we use AI to streamline workflows—making podcasting more affordable and scalable for our clients.

But here’s the key: don’t lose the human voice. Podcasting is about connection, and that still requires a personal touch.

✅ Final Take: Is It Right for You?

Ask yourself:

  • Do I have a clear reason to start this podcast?

  • Is my audience actually listening to podcasts?

  • Can I consistently produce quality content with the resources I have?

  • Am I okay with slow, organic growth?

If you answered yes to most of these, you’re in a great place to start. If not, that’s okay too—there might be better formats for your business right now.

🎧 Need Help Deciding?

We offer a free 30-minute no-pitch podcast consultation. No sales gimmicks—just real advice to help you move forward (or walk away confidently).

Nail the First Two Minutes: How to Craft a Podcast Intro That Hooks, Engages, and Converts

If the first two minutes of your podcast don't grab attention—you’re toast. The harsh truth? In a world overflowing with content, your audience is just one swipe away from the next shiny thing.

That’s why your podcast intro is more than just a warm welcome—it’s your opening pitch, your brand’s handshake, and your first chance to prove you’re worth listening to.

I want to teach you how to structure a podcast introduction that turns casual listeners into loyal fans. Whether you're a small business owner, a marketing manager, or just starting your branded podcast journey, this is your roadmap to nailing those crucial first moments.

Why Your Podcast Intro Matters More Than You Think

Let’s be real: Your podcast isn’t competing with other podcasts. It’s competing with YouTube, TikTok, Spotify, and a dozen other distractions in your listener’s life.

A powerful podcast intro immediately:

  • Captures attention

  • Establishes your brand identity

  • Builds anticipation and trust

  • Sets the tone for everything that follows

Think of it like this: You’re not just starting an episode—you’re convincing someone to stick around.

Step One: Hook ‘Em Fast

The first 15–20 seconds are make-or-break. So ditch the “Hey guys, welcome back” fluff and start with impact.

Here are three go-to tactics that work:

1. Ask a Compelling Question

Get your listeners thinking. Hit a pain point. Make them nod along in agreement.

Example: “Are you losing customers because your podcast sounds like every other one out there?”

2. Drop a Surprising Stat

Facts wake people up—especially when they relate to big trends.

Try this one: “There will be nearly 600 million podcast listeners by the end of 2025.” Now you’ve got their attention.

3. Share a Micro Success Story

If you’ve helped someone crush their goals through podcasting, say so—briefly.

“One of our real estate clients saw a 3X increase in leads just by tightening up their podcast intro. Here’s how.”

Step Two: Say Why It Matters

Once you’ve got them intrigued, double down on relevance. Let your listener know why this episode (and topic) is worth their time.

This could sound like:

“If your intro doesn’t captivate, your content won’t matter—because no one’s sticking around to hear it.”

Be concise, but hit the “what’s in it for me?” button hard.

Step Three: Bring the Energy

Yes, your content matters. But so does how you deliver it. Your voice, tone, and presence play a huge role in setting the vibe.

🎙️ A few quick pointers:

  • Be excited. Your enthusiasm is contagious.

  • Be clear. Avoid rambling or over-explaining.

  • Be you—but just a notch more energized.

And if you’re on video? Look into the camera. Make it personal.

Step Four: Design an Intro That Sounds Like Your Brand

This is where sonic branding comes into play. A few seconds of music or sound effects can say a lot about your show—if they’re done right.

💡 Keep it simple:

  • Use short, punchy theme music (under 15 seconds)

  • Make sure it fits your podcast’s vibe

  • Don’t waste time with long, repetitive intros

Think of it as your audio logo. Consistency here builds trust and brand recall over time.

Step Five: Set Expectations With an Episode Preview

Now that you’ve hooked them, show them where the episode’s going.

A quick preview builds trust and gives your listener a reason to stay.

Try something like:

“In today’s episode, we’ll show you how to grab attention in 20 seconds, avoid the most common intro mistakes, and use music and voice to lock in your brand vibe.”

This shows you're not winging it—you’re delivering value with intention.

Step Six: Introduce Guests with Strategy

Letting guests ramble through their own intro? Rookie move.

Here’s a better way:

  • Say who they are

  • Say why they’re here

  • Mention any relevant expertise or news

Example: “Today we’re joined by podcast branding expert Alex Sharp, who just released a book on intro strategy. Let’s dive in.”

This keeps your pacing tight and your listener hooked.

Step Seven: Don’t Just Jump to the Next Topic—Transition

Your audience isn’t on a rollercoaster—don’t give them whiplash.

If you're shifting gears mid-episode, use phrases like:

  • “Let’s switch gears and explore…”

  • “Now that we’ve covered the basics, here’s what else matters…”

A little verbal signposting goes a long way toward keeping your flow smooth and professional.

The Spotify Video Dilemma: Should You Be Using It?

In the second half of the episode, we cover the Sounds Profitable article on Spotify’s push into video podcasting.

Here's the TL;DR:

  • Spotify’s still an audio-first platform.

  • Most users aren’t watching—they’re listening.

  • Video might not be worth the hassle on Spotify specifically.

  • YouTube is still the go-to if visuals are your jam.

Our advice? Keep Spotify for audio, and lean on YouTube (and even Facebook) for full video episodes.

Wrap-Up: Your Action Plan for Better Podcast Intros

Let’s bring it home. Here’s your checklist for crafting a killer podcast intro:

✅ Start with a hook: question, stat, or story
✅ Explain why this topic matters
✅ Use music and voiceovers that match your brand
✅ Preview the episode clearly
✅ Transition smoothly into the core content
✅ Keep the whole thing tight—aim for 30–45 seconds tops

Remember: every second in your intro is a chance to earn attention—or lose it.

Ready to Up Your Podcast Game?

If you want help crafting intros that convert—and a podcast that pulls in real leads—we’d love to help.

👉 Book your no-pitch podcast consultation today.
📺 Or check out the full episode on YouTube
🎧 Or listen on your favorite podcasting app!

The Psychology Behind a Successful Podcast: How to Truly Connect with Your Audience

The Psychology Behind a Successful Podcast: How to Truly Connect with Your Audience

We’re definitely not calling it a comeback, but audio is back in a big way. If you're thinking it's a trend, think again. Podcasting isn't just enjoying a resurgence—it's evolving into one of the most effective ways to reach and captivate an audience. With nearly 600 million listeners projected globally in 2025, now is the perfect time to not only start a podcast, but also to understand what makes one truly successful.

Building a Branded Podcast Strategy: A Guide for Business Owners Who Want to Be Heard

Building a Branded Podcast Strategy: A Guide for Business Owners Who Want to Be Heard

Without a solid strategy, your podcast is just you talking into a microphone for fun. If you’re doing a podcast for your business, we’re pretty sure that you want more from your podcast that just making noise. This is why we often get asked about how to build a podcast that resonates, reflects your brand, and actually moves the needle for your business?

How to Make Sure Your Podcast Pays Off: ROI Strategies That Actually Work

How to Make Sure Your Podcast Pays Off: ROI Strategies That Actually Work

Launching a podcast is easy. Turning that podcast into a marketing machine that delivers return on investment? That’s where the magic happens—and where many small business owners and marketing managers fall short.

In this blog post, we’ll break down how to align your branded podcast with measurable business goals, turn listeners into leads, and avoid the common traps of vanity metrics. Let’s make your podcast work for your bottom line.

The Power of Content Pillars: Keeping Your Branded Podcast on Track

It's far too easy for your content to drift off course. One day, you're delivering top-notch industry insights, and the next, you're discussing something only vaguely related to your brand. Most podcasters have made this mistake in one form or another. While variety can keep things fresh, too much deviation can weaken your podcast’s effectiveness. That’s where content pillars come in.

Content pillars serve as the foundation of your podcast, ensuring every episode aligns with your brand’s mission, marketing goals, and audience needs. Let’s explore why setting up content pillars is crucial and how you can use them to create a focused and compelling branded podcast.

What Are Content Pillars?

Think of content pillars like the sturdy columns of a Roman structure or the stilts of a beachfront home. These pillars hold everything together, keeping your podcast aligned with its purpose. They represent the core themes that define your show—three to five broad topics that everything you discuss should fall under.

Instead of crafting episodes on a whim, your content pillars ensure that each topic supports your brand’s expertise, serves your audience, and reinforces your overall messaging. Every episode should fit within at least one pillar, ensuring that your podcast stays relevant and impactful.

How to Establish Your Content Pillars

Creating your content pillars requires strategic planning. Here’s a step-by-step approach:

1. Identify Your Core Expertise

Start by asking: What does my brand do exceptionally well? Your podcast should reflect your unique value proposition—the thing that sets you apart from competitors.

For example, if you run a fitness coaching business, your core expertise might include:

  • Physical wellness

  • Mental wellness

  • Nutrition

These overarching topics would serve as your content pillars.

2. Understand Your Audience’s Problems

Your audience tunes in because they have a problem they need help solving. To create valuable content, step into their shoes and determine:

  • What challenges do they face?

  • What questions do they frequently ask?

  • What information do they need to make informed decisions?

By aligning your content pillars with your audience’s needs, you ensure your podcast remains relevant and useful.

3. Organize Topics Under Each Pillar

Once you've defined your pillars, list potential topics under each one. This helps you visualize where your content is headed and ensures a steady flow of ideas.

For instance, if one of your pillars is Physical Wellness, your topics might include:

  • Strength training fundamentals

  • The benefits of cardiovascular workouts

  • How sleep impacts recovery

Organizing topics this way prevents redundancy and helps you plan long-term.

4. Maintain a Living, Breathing Document

Your content pillars shouldn’t be set in stone. Industries evolve, audience needs shift, and new trends emerge. That’s why it’s crucial to keep your content pillars as a living document—something you review and refine regularly.

Set up a Google Doc or a Word document where you:

  • List your pillars and subtopics

  • Highlight, underline, or strike through topics you’ve covered

  • Note emerging trends or audience requests

Revisiting this document ensures your podcast remains fresh and aligned with your goals.

Using Content Pillars to Stay on Track

Even with well-defined pillars, it’s easy to get sidetracked. Here are some strategies to stay focused:

1. Review Your Pillars Before Each Episode

Before you record, ask: Does this episode fit within one of my pillars? If the answer is no, reconsider whether it’s worth including in your podcast.

2. Be Selective with Guests

Bringing in guest speakers can add variety and expertise, but make sure their insights align with your pillars. A great conversation that doesn’t fit your brand’s focus won’t serve your audience.

3. Adapt Without Losing Focus

Trends and new information may lead you to adjust your pillars over time. That’s fine—just ensure that any shift still aligns with your brand’s mission and audience needs.

The Impact of Staying Focused

A well-structured branded podcast isn’t just beneficial for content consistency—it also strengthens audience trust and engagement. According to recent studies:

  • 59% of weekly podcast listeners consume branded content.

  • 74% of brand fans get podcast recommendations from their social circles.

  • 88% of those who receive a recommendation are likely to check it out.

This means that when your podcast delivers focused, high-quality content, listeners are more likely to share it—expanding your reach organically.

Final Thoughts: Build, Maintain, and Grow Your Branded Podcast

Content pillars aren’t just a strategy; they’re a necessity for any branded podcast that aims for long-term success. By establishing clear themes, aligning with audience needs, and maintaining focus, you create a show that consistently delivers value.

How to Stand Out in the Podcasting Space: A Guide for Business Podcasters

Podcasting is hotter than ever, and with so many voices entering the space, it’s natural to wonder: How do you stand out? Too many people are focused on the numbers, but those measure results, not inputs and there’s a big difference between the two. What you need to focus on is your content, approach, and brand. In this post, we’ll cover the key ways to make your podcast shine in a crowded market.

1. Define Your Niche and Speak to One Person

The old saying goes, “The riches are in the niches,” and while overused, I feel that it holds a lot of truth. Many podcasters make the mistake of trying to appeal to everyone, but when you try to talk to a broad audience, you risk reaching no one. We’ve made this mistake ourselves on numerous occasions.

Imagine you're at a crowded dinner party and you start talking loudly to no one in particular. Nobody will pay attention. However, if you engage one person in conversation, others will naturally listen in. The same applies to your podcast—speak directly to your dream customer, and others will follow.

For example, our podcast focuses on business podcasters—people using podcasts to grow their brands. Sure, others might listen, but our content is tailored to that specific audience.

2. Clarify Your Unique Value Proposition

What makes your podcast different? Why should someone listen to you instead of the hundreds of other options?

Your unique value proposition (UVP) is what sets you apart. Think of it like this:

  • What makes Wendy’s different from McDonald’s?

  • What makes Chick-fil-A different from Burger King?

For our podcast, our UVP is business-branded podcasting—helping businesses use podcasts as a strategic marketing tool. Your UVP might be your industry expertise, storytelling style, or unique guest lineup.

Take a moment to define your UVP. What is your special sauce that sets your podcast apart? Make sure that it’s something that’s unique. That’s what this whole exercise is about!

3. Invest in High-Quality Production

Podcasting success isn’t just about great content—it’s also about presentation. Bad audio can kill even the best message.

This doesn’t mean you need a full-blown studio. But at the very least:

  • Use a good microphone (you can get a decent one for $150–$200).

  • Avoid built-in laptop mics—they sound awful.

  • Get good lighting if you’re on video.

  • Pay attention to your environment (no loud background noise!).

A poorly produced podcast reflects poorly on your brand. Your podcast quality should match the quality of your business.

4. Use Engaging Storytelling

Storytelling is the secret sauce of compelling content. Whether through personal anecdotes, case studies, or interviews, stories create connection.

Think about brands with strong narratives—Nike’s “Just Do It” campaign, for example. They don’t just sell shoes; they sell a story of perseverance and excellence.

For your podcast, use storytelling techniques like:

  • Personal experiences related to your topic

  • Case studies of customers or clients

  • Guest interviews with engaging insights

  • The “problem-solution” storytelling format

5. Consistent Branding & Strategic Promotion

Branding is more than just a logo—it’s about creating recognition. Keep your podcast’s visuals, tone, and messaging consistent across all platforms.

You also need a marketing strategy. Simply posting an episode and hoping people find it does not work. Instead:

  • Promote episodes on social media (use short clips and audiograms).

  • Leverage email marketing (send updates to your subscribers).

  • Collaborate with other podcasters (guest swaps, cross-promotions).

  • Consider paid ads (yes, you can run ads for your podcast!).

A podcast doesn’t market itself—you need to put in the effort to get it in front of the right audience.

6. Build a Community Around Your Podcast

Podcasting isn’t just about broadcasting; it’s about engagement. Encourage listeners to interact with you and each other.

Ways to build community:

  • Create a Facebook Group around your podcast topic.

  • Start a Discord server where listeners can chat.

  • Respond to comments (this is huge—don’t ignore your audience!).

  • Host live Q&A sessions to connect with listeners in real time.

When you foster engagement, your podcast becomes more than just content—it becomes a movement.

7. Repurpose Your Podcast Content

Your podcast episode shouldn’t be a one-and-done deal. Repurpose it into different formats:

  • Blog posts (like this one!)

  • Short video clips for social media

  • Infographics summarizing key points

  • Email newsletters featuring episode highlights

Repurposing content extends your reach and keeps your podcast front-of-mind for your audience.

8. Leverage AI for Efficiency

AI is changing podcasting big time. Tools like ChatGPT can help with:

  • Brainstorming content ideas

  • Creating episode summaries

  • Generating social media captions

  • Improving discoverability with better metadata

According to a recent Acast study, 68% of podcasters believe AI significantly reduces production time. If you’re not using AI to streamline your workflow, it’s time to start.

Final Thoughts: Be Intentional, Be Consistent, and Engage

Standing out in podcasting doesn’t happen by accident. It requires intentionality, high-quality production, and strategic marketing.

If you take one thing away from this post, let it be this:

Speak directly to your ideal listener, provide unique value, and engage consistently.

And hey—if you’re serious about improving your podcast, sign up for our No-Pitch Podcast Consultation where we’ll walk you through personalized strategies to take your show to the next level. Click here to book your free session!

🎙️ Want more tips?

  • Watch this episode on YouTube

  • Listen to the podcast on your favorite app

  • Drop your questions in the comments!

How to Build the "Know, Like, and Trust" Factor Through Podcasting

When you’re trying to build strong business relationships, it isn’t just about having the best product or service—it’s about building trust with your clients. The same is true when you’re trying to build your audience in a podcast. In a world filled with endless marketing messages, it’s a fact that consumers want to work with brands and people they know, like, and trust.

And one of the best tools for doing that? Podcasting.

In this post, we’ll break down why the “Know, Like, and Trust” (KLT) factor is crucial and how a well-executed podcast can establish deep, authentic connections with your audience.

What is the Know, Like, and Trust Factor?

The KLT factor is the foundation of any strong business relationship. Let’s break it down:

  • Know – Your audience becomes familiar with who you are and what you do.

  • Like – They resonate with your personality, values, and content.

  • Trust – They believe in your expertise and are willing to invest in your business.

The stronger the KLT factor, the more likely people are to choose your brand over competitors. But how do you build it effectively? Let’s dive in.

How Podcasting Builds Know, Like, and Trust

Unlike traditional marketing methods that rely on polished ads and short-form content, podcasting allows for longer, deeper conversations. It gives your audience a chance to hear your voice, understand your personality, and connect with your message on a personal level. Here’s how:

1. Building the “Know” Factor: Let Them See the Real You

Podcasting allows you to be in your audience’s ears on a regular basis. They hear your thoughts, insights, and experiences—making them feel like they actually know you.

🔹 Be consistent. Showing up regularly (weekly or biweekly) ensures you stay top of mind. 🔹 Tell stories. Personal experiences help listeners relate to you. 🔹 Share your expertise. Position yourself as an authority by delivering valuable insights.

👉 Action Step: Structure your episodes in a way that introduces who you are and what you do, especially in your early episodes.

2. Building the “Like” Factor: Authenticity Wins

People connect with people, not faceless brands. The best podcasts feel like a natural conversation, not a scripted sales pitch.

🔹 Be yourself. Don’t try to be someone you’re not—people can sense inauthenticity a mile away. 🔹 Show your personality. Whether you’re funny, thoughtful, or enthusiastic, let it shine. 🔹 Engage with your audience. Ask for feedback, take listener questions, and interact on social media.

👉 Action Step: In each episode, share a bit of your personal journey or a lesson learned to make your content relatable.

3. Building the “Trust” Factor: Provide Value and Show Up Consistently

Trust is earned over time. If you provide consistent value, your audience will start to trust you as a reliable source of information.

🔹 Offer actionable advice. Help your listeners solve problems or learn something new. 🔹 Be reliable. Release your podcast on a regular schedule to build credibility. 🔹 Encourage interaction. Respond to comments, emails, and social media messages promptly.

👉 Action Step: End each episode with a clear call to action (CTA) that invites engagement, like asking for feedback or offering a free resource.

Final Thoughts: Why Podcasting is the Ultimate Trust-Building Tool

Marketing is no longer about just broadcasting a message—it’s about building relationships. Podcasting allows you to develop authentic, long-term connections with your audience, making it one of the most powerful tools for establishing the Know, Like, and Trust factor.

So, if you’re not podcasting yet, what’s stopping you?

🚀 Ready to start your own podcast? Sign up for a free no-pitch podcast consultation, and let’s turn your ideas into a high-impact marketing tool!

🎧 Listen to our latest episode on building Know, Like, and Trust through podcasting!

Why Storytelling Beats Press Releases: Unlocking PR Success with Donna Loughlin

In today’s crowded digital landscape, traditional press releases often fall flat. Companies pump them out like coupons in the mail, hoping one will stick. But here’s the truth: unless your announcement is groundbreaking—think Guinness World Record-worthy—a press release alone won’t capture attention. That’s where storytelling comes in, and PR expert Donna Loughlin has mastered it.

If you’re tired of sending out generic announcements and hearing crickets, read on to discover why telling your story is the key to standing out, building connections, and driving real business results.

The Problem with Press Releases: Why They Fail to Tell Your Story

Many companies, especially startups, lean too heavily on press releases as their primary communication tool. But as Donna Loughlin points out, “A press release is not a book. It’s not a story. It’s a one-page factual document.” While necessary for compliance or major milestones, press releases lack depth and fail to convey the company’s heart, mission, and impact.

So why do businesses rely on them?

Habitual Misuse

Companies often fall into the habit of issuing press releases because it feels familiar and easy. But familiarity breeds mediocrity. Without compelling storytelling, these releases don’t stand out in a sea of inbox noise. Journalists get flooded with pitches—why should they care about yours?

Feature Overload

Another common mistake is focusing on product features without explaining why they matter. As Laughlin puts it, “Speeds and feeds don’t create emotional connections.” Imagine car shopping. You don’t just want specs—you want to know how it feels to drive that car, how it fits your life.

The Power of Storytelling: Crafting a Narrative That Connects

What sets successful companies apart is their ability to tell stories that resonate. According to Loughlin, “Storytelling is about the 'why' behind what you do, the impact you’re making, and the 'wow' factor that grabs attention.”

Introducing the Narrative Story Engine

Loughlin developed what she calls a “Narrative Story Engine,” a method of crafting stories that go beyond the basics of who, what, and how. The engine focuses on:

  • Why you do what you do

  • The impact your company is making

  • Trends you can leverage

  • The 'So what? Who cares?' factor

This framework ensures that your story not only informs but also captivates.

The Wow and Now Factor

To make your story relevant, you need a hook. Loughlin describes this as the “Wow and Now” factor—something fresh and attention-grabbing that positions your company within current trends. Without this, your story risks being lost in the noise.

Customization Is Key: Tailor Your Story for Different Audiences

Blanket approaches don’t work in PR. Loughlin stresses the importance of tailoring your message. Think of it like buying a suit: off-the-rack might fit okay, but a tailored suit makes a statement.

When pitching stories, customize the angle depending on the publication and its audience:

  • Tech outlets want innovation and breakthroughs.

  • Business publications need strategic insights.

  • Consumer media focuses on relatable experiences.

Loughlin explains, “I call Popular Science for a deep technical story, Motor Trend for road trip fun, and Bloomberg for business coverage.” Each outlet receives a unique pitch that fits its style.

Practical Steps to Find Your Story

Feeling lost on where to start? Don’t worry. Loughlin recommends an exercise to help you rediscover your company’s narrative:

  1. Start with Post-it Notes: Write down key milestones, challenges, and achievements. Place them on a wall and group related ideas.

  2. Identify Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT): Look beyond your product. Consider customer feedback, market positioning, and internal growth.

  3. Pull the Threads: Storytelling is like weaving a quilt. What threads will you pull to create the right narrative—whether it’s a partnership story, a product launch, or a funding announcement?

PR Success Isn’t Spray and Pray

Loughlin warns against the “spray and pray” method of sending out press releases and hoping for coverage. Instead, invest time in crafting meaningful, targeted content. Her strategy often involves spending weeks preparing a narrative before a press release or campaign goes live.

Case Study: From Ten Days to Success

Donna recalls a project where she helped launch a company in just ten days before CES 2020—an impressive feat, but not one she recommends often. Preparation is key, and taking the time to build a compelling story ensures better results.

How AI Fits Into Storytelling

With the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT, businesses have more resources than ever to enhance their storytelling. But Loughlin cautions against relying solely on AI. “AI is an enabler, not a replacement,” she says. Use it to generate ideas, improve drafts, and stimulate creativity, but keep the human touch.

AI can help with:

  • Brainstorming story angles

  • Creating content outlines

  • Refining messaging

However, your unique perspective and authenticity must remain front and center.

Actionable Takeaways: How to Improve Your Company’s Storytelling Today

  1. Ask Why: Go back to your company’s origin story. Why did you start? What problem are you solving?

  2. Focus on Impact: Highlight the results and transformations your product or service delivers.

  3. Tailor Your Approach: Customize your messaging based on the audience and platform.

  4. Use AI as a Tool: Let AI enhance your process, but don’t let it take over.

  5. Prepare Thoroughly: Don’t rush. Give yourself time to craft a meaningful narrative.

Ready to Transform Your PR Strategy?

The days of relying on generic press releases are over. If you want your brand’s story to resonate, you need to think like a storyteller—and maybe even call Donna Loughlin.

Looking for expert guidance? Schedule a no-pitch podcast consultation with us today and learn how to craft stories that captivate your audience and drive business results.

Listen to the full podcast episode with Donna Laughlin on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube.