🧮 Launch Series: the Metrics that Matter
🎉 Plus, Tink turns FIVE today! 🎉
Hey there! Shreya here. Last week, we kicked off the Launch Series. If you’re new here — welcome and start there for this series we’ll be running for the next four weeks.
When it comes to launch metrics, I usually face a lot of high panic and high expectations moments from clients. (I personally switched from watching The Bear to The Great British Bake-off before writing this issue).
This level of stress is understandable; you’re putting your creative brainchild out into the world.
Putting your hard work on display for all to see. Baring your soul. We know how it is!
The tendency to refresh your dashboard is REAL. 💛 And you don’t need me to tell you this — it’s mighty unhelpful.
Today, we’re going to talk about the three metrics that matter around launch, and when to measure them.
🥁 But first, a very special announcement 🥁
🎉 Today, on July 19, 2024, Tink turns FIVE! 🎉
To celebrate this milestone, we’re offering a $50 discount on Podcast Therapy sessions for everyone who signs up before August 19.
Wait, there’s more! We’re also hosting a free webinar about one of our FAVORITE podcast marketing strategies - making podcast friends! Attendees of the free webinar who then sign up for Podcast Therapy will receive an extra $50 off. So you could get a total of $100 off your session by attending the free webinar AND signing up for podcast therapy.
See you there, crazy kids!
Now, onto the main show.
📊 Launch metrics that matter, and how to not to lose your mind measuring them
We all want to know immediately how our art performs. I would be lying if I said I’m not the same way. So, I’m going to say something to you that I tell all our clients (and myself) when we open up those launch metrics.
✨ Breathe ✨ Begin.
⬇️ 1: Downloads
Ugh. I know. I’m the first person to say ‘it’s not always about the downloads.’ However, this time it is. Downloads matter because they matter to you. They are an indication of how your podcast’s baby days are doing.
Where: You can find your download metrics in your podcast hosting provider.
How often: You should ideally measure your downloads over the first 24 hours and the first 7 days of your episode’s release. The downloads over the first 24 hours are an indication of how well you’ve set yourself up for success with marketing and promotion. The downloads over the first 7 days are an indication of how engaging your podcast is, and how shareable it is.
💡 Pro-tip: you’re probably doing better than you think you are! Keep an eye on Buzzsprout’s monthly stats to see how your downloads compare to other podcasts, in the first 7 days of launch.
Okay, but it’s not about JUST the downloads!
🤝 2: Engagement
Are the people engaging with your podcast? What’s the reception like? That’s where engagement comes in. This is not your usual social media engagement, rather an indication of how engaging your podcast actually is.
Where: Across different platforms, but primarily Apple Podcasts. Apple’s engagement and listen-through metrics are excellent indications of if people are actually picking up what you’re putting out.
How often: First 7 days, and first month.
Keep an eye on this one. It’s what will tell you how alluring your tale is to ears that are not yours.
🌟 3: Ratings and Reviews
This one’s my favorite. Every time a podcast launches, there’s always emails being sent out to friends and family about listening and rating and reviewing. It reminds me of the community spirit of it all. I think this one matters a lot.
Where: Apple Podcast ratings and reviews, and Spotify and Pocket Casts ratings.
How often: First 7 days, and first month.
💡 Pro-tip: ask for that review. On your podcast, on your social media, on your Slacks and Discords and what have yous. No seriously, do it. It’s okay to ask.
Reminder: Do not, I repeat, do NOT obsess over the metrics right off the bat. Keep an eye on them but don’t let them dictate everything. Streamline your efforts right from the start! Don’t keep refreshing, my friends.
💥 Shameless plug-in time: With a launch around the corner, it’s honestly never too soon to start thinking about your podcast marketing. If you’ve got questions, we’ve got the answers! Reach out to learn how you can work with us. [Remember, $50 off Podcast Therapy if you sign up today].
⭐ More Magic:
Stormfire Productions founder and exec. producer Lisette Alvarez, has been invited for a three month artist residency to complete the creation of their super cool spy thriller podcast. Congratulations, Lisette!
There’s an ongoing creator fund to help cover Lisette’s living expenses not covered by the residency. Consider donating?
TINK TURNS FIVE! Did I say that already? Wow. 🤩
🔵 From The Desk of Tink
Gosh. Kinder living, uplifted souls, and a world filled with perpetual generosity. This is the dream Jean Trebek and Alison Martin are out to fulfill on their podcast insidewink. Jean isn’t just Alex Trebek’s widow–she’s well-accomplished in religious studies, the healing arts, and philanthropy. And Alison isn’t just an Emmy-winning actress–she’s a woman on a mission to become the best human she can be and guiding others along that path. Start anywhere for a wholesome audio content. I loved this episode welcoming hospice nurse and TikTok influencer Hadley Vlahos.
Thank you for reading. Wil returns next week with more insights on launching your podcast like a pro.
Until then, stay cool and keep breathing!
Shreya