Insider Secrets to a Top 100 Podcast with Courtney Elmer | Podcasting Strategies for Growing a Podcast That Converts

How to Position Your Podcast Topics to Increase Listener Engagement (Even If They’re Not “Hot Topics”)

Courtney Elmer | PodLaunchHQ.com Episode 359

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0:00 | 15:55

Hot topics get clicks. But what about the episodes you want to record, even if they’re not “trendy” or SEO-friendly? It's a smart question, and it begs an even bigger one: how do you make every episode sound like a must-listen so listeners can’t help but hit play, no matter what you’re talking about?

In this episode, I’m answering both and showing you how to strike the right balance between trending topics and thought leadership content that sets your show apart—and how to package those less “obvious” topics so listeners instantly see why those episodes are worth their time, too.

I’m breaking it all down in a simple framework you can steal right now so you can create a podcast you’re genuinely proud of (and never bored recording). So if you want every episode to earn its spot in your feed and get more listeners hitting play—hot topic or not—hit play and let’s dive in.

2:15 – Why Listeners Often Skip the Episodes You Care About Most 

5:42 – How to Turn “Non-Trendy” Topics Into Must-Listen Episodes 

7:58 – The Brain Cues that Drive Listeners to Hit Play 

9:10 – The 3-Part Content Formula That Attracts Clicks and Builds Authority 

13:48 – Why This Episode Mix Builds Loyalty and Long-Term Podcast Growth


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 → This episode was recorded on the Deity VO-7U

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