In this week’s episode, I interview my amazing podcast manager, Cass Ponton.

Cass looks after everything to do with the SDAD podcast, including the infamous blooper reel.   

Join us for today’s episode where we talk about why starting a podcast is the best thing for introverted entrepreneurs, how easy it is to launch, and some of the equipment you’ll need to get started.

She really is the podcast queen! 👑

Note: this is a summary of the things Cass spoke about. For her exact words, listen to the podcast audio!

LISTEN HERE

 

 

 

Who is Cass Ponton?

For the past four years, I’ve lived in Melbourne, Australia. I’m currently preparing to move to Bali and live the freedom and pyjama lifestyle over there!

I’m used to moving around, and I’ve spent time in the Sunshine Coast and even California, but Covid really kept me in one place for a while.

Before Covid, I was working in the office in sports management.

I’d always known I wanted to do something for myself and be able to travel, so when I was made redundant because of the pandemic, I fell into being a virtual assistant and podcast manager. 

Shortly after, I began making my (now embarrassing) travel vlogs, and I realised I was pretty good at video and podcast editing. That’s what’s led me here!

 

 

Do you only help women with their podcasts?

Yes, I support women in business with their podcasts. I love working with women as we can always have a good time and support each other.

It’s just wonderful working with other women and building each other up all of the time. There’s no competitiveness like there can be with men.

Ultimately, when you show up online, you are going to attract people who share the same values and vibe as you.

And if you show up as yourself, you attract the people you want to attract, which for me, has been other women!

 

 

Do you resonate with being an introvert?

After Covid, I found myself resonating with being an introvert way more than I did a few years ago. 

I used to be extroverted, always being in the office, out every weekend and only being home on Sundays.

Now I find it hard to pull myself away from Housewives on the TV and my pyjama lifestyle!

The lockdown in Melbourne was one of the longest in the world and it was tough at first. But with it being so long, I got used to not talking to or seeing anyone. Now I find I prefer the ‘zoom’ world.

 

 

Why is podcasting a great platform for introverts?

As an introvert, we have a social battery. And this battery can become drained when talking to people in social situations.

When you record a podcast, you’re connecting with others, but you’re doing it from the comfort of your own home.

Showing up in group situations or on socials can be hard, but when you’re doing a podcast, it can be structured, conversational and a safe space for you to build a connection with your audience.

You are totally in control of how you want to manage your podcasts.

Whether you want short episodes, solo, guests, or interviews – it’s down to you. You can then repurpose all of your hard work for blog posts, reels, and Instagram stories – the list is endless! 

When we listen to podcasts, it can feel like we’re having an intimate conversation with the person speaking. If you start a podcast as an introvert, you can build a deeper connection with your audience without draining your social battery.

Plus, podcasts are accessible to all. They can be listened to whilst your audience is driving, cooking, or doing other things, meaning your message can get through to them whilst multitasking.

For this reason alone, I think podcasts will be around for a long time!

 

 

Creating a podcast builds trust with your audience

When we listen to podcasts, whether we’re introverted or not, if something resonates with us, we feel seen and heard. So by creating a podcast, you can talk directly to your target audience.

As a podcast manager, I personally love producing the content because I get to know you (Mia) a little better every week. I feel like you are talking to me, which builds trust.

This trust can then be used from a business perspective and turned into sales.

You’re not going to buy from someone you don’t trust. Podcasting builds a deeper connection than an Instagram caption or a blog post.

It’s a safe space to totally show up as yourself and connect in a more personal way with your audience.

 

 

Tips to start a podcast as an introvert

Firstly, think about: what do you want your podcast to look like?

Will you co-host, have seasons, or work solo? Is it going to be funny, easy and light, or hard-hitting? Decide on this first and plan the theme of your podcast (but make sure it’s something you love, as you’re going to be talking about it a lot!)

Make sure your topic will resonate with the people you want to be talking to. Think about how your listeners can become aligned clients. 

How can your listeners think ‘oh hey, I didn’t know she had that course. That sounds awesome, I’m totally going to join!’

Weave in your business side so seamlessly that you build new clients effortlessly.

My advice? Just try it! Even if you start a podcast and HATE it, you don’t have to do it anymore! It’s low costing to get started, and you can always outsource to help you with time management. 

Consistency is key, and your following will grow if you keep going.

Feel free to check out my ebook on launching a podcast, where you can plan your launch and feel confident in the process!

 

 

Do I need expensive equipment to start a podcast as an introvert?

No! Especially if you are just starting out.

You do not need expensive equipment to start a podcast.

My top three recommendations when starting a podcast are;

• Headphones (old school Apple headphones, Airpods, whatever you have)
• A Mic (if you get a cheaper one from Amazon, make sure you buy a pop filter to cover any general mouth/spitting noises, although this is optional)
• Recording software (zoom, your phone, or a platform online)

 

 

A HUGE thank you to Cass for joining me today and taking the time to share her incredible podcast wisdom.

And if you’re thinking to start a podcast as an introvert, make sure you check out her launching ebook!

Oh and follow her Instagram account for her *amazing* memes.