Creating a Brand

Alex Sanfilippo

Creating a Brand is the podcast dedicated to helping you grow your personal and professional identity. Whether you're pursuing a side hustle, full-time venture, or just looking to get more out of life, you came to the right place! We’re a community focused on succeeding in life and in business. Message from the host, Alex Sanfilippo: "I believe the Creating a Brand Podcast is going to help a lot of people. I'm SO glad you're here!"

  • 31 minutes
    Leading the Community Shift in Podcasting | Darrell Vesterfelt

    Most podcast hosts and guests feel they must continually create more resources and tools to build their brand. But, there’s a change coming, and that’s no longer reality. The way that people learn has changed forever, and that’s good for podcasters! In this episode, Darrell Vesterfelt and Alex Sanfilippo explain why community-centered learning is the future of online learning and how you can lean into this shift to get better results. Get ready to make your creative endeavors a more meaningful experience!

    MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/368

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Community Learning
    02:46 The Evolution of Learning and AI
    05:46 Defining Community in the Digital Age
    09:06 The Importance of Human Connection
    12:01 Transformative Learning Experiences
    14:50 Building Engaging Communities
    18:02 The Future of Community as a Business Model
    20:57 Creating a Successful Community Framework
    24:11 Final Thoughts on Community and Learning

    Takeaways

    Community learning is becoming essential in the digital age.
    AI is fundamentally changing how we learn and engage with content.
    Defining community involves understanding shared goals and transitions.
    Human connection is increasingly valued over digital interactions.
    Transformative experiences are key to effective learning.
    Building engaging communities requires a focus on connection and interaction.
    Community is a sustainable business model for creators.
    A successful community framework can be established with just 30 members.
    The future of learning lies in collaborative environments rather than solitary consumption.
    Creating a community allows for shared experiences and collective growth.

    MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/368

    PodMatch has officially launched a podcast network for independent interview-based podcasts! To apply to be part of the network, please visit https://PodMatch.com/network and press the "Join Network" button in the top center of the screen. While you're there, be sure to check out some of the incredible shows in the network!

    27 January 2026, 11:00 am
  • 19 minutes 10 seconds
    The Rise of the Podcasting Algorithm | Alex Sanfilippo

    Podcast discoverability is changing; old podcast growth tactics are fading, and a new reality is here. Podcast listeners are discovering shows through algorithms! Thankfully, there’s a way to create content that will automatically get recommended to listeners! In this episode, Alex Sanfilippo explains the top-ranking factors that the podcasting algorithm favors and how to ensure your show is positioned correctly. Get ready to unleash more organic growth than ever before!

    MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/367

    Chapters

    00:00 From Zero to Thousands: The Podcasting Journey
    03:16 The Rise of Algorithms in Podcasting
    06:32 Engagement Metrics: Time on Screen
    11:44 Strategies for Longer Listener Retention
    17:21 The Future of Podcasting: Serving One to Grow Many

    Takeaways

    I went from just a few people listening to thousands.
    The algorithm in podcasting is a dirty word.
    Time on screen is the only important metric.
    Improve your sound and video quality.
    Shorten your introductions and your outros.
    Make sure the content follows a narrative.
    Infotainment is the goal.
    Be real, be raw, be relevant.
    The algorithm is going to hold us accountable.
    Serve that one person the best you can.

    MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/367

    PodMatch has officially launched a podcast network for independent interview-based podcasts! To apply to be part of the network, please visit https://PodMatch.com/network and press the "Join Network" button in the top center of the screen. While you're there, be sure to check out some of the incredible shows in the network!

    20 January 2026, 11:00 am
  • 38 minutes 46 seconds
    How Podcasters Can Achieve More by Learning Less | Pat Flynn

    Most podcasters try to learn everything and end up doing nothing. The pressure to master it all becomes overwhelming and stalls progress. Don't let this be the case for you! In this episode, Alex Sanfilippo and Pat Flynn share how to focus your learning, eliminate noise, and grow by doing less. You’ll learn how to take aligned action, avoid burnout, and get real results without chasing every new idea. Get ready to stop the overwhelm and move forward with clarity and purpose!

    MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/366

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Lean Learning Lifestyle
    01:25 Defining Lean Learning
    04:41 Inspiration Overload and the Inspiration Matrix
    10:49 Choosing Action Over Information
    18:43 Navigating Mistakes and Community Feedback
    19:38 Navigating Hurt and Vulnerability
    23:43 Protecting Your Progress and Time
    30:15 The Decision to Persist or Pivot
    36:55 Embracing Mistakes and Learning

    Takeaways

    Lean learning is about doing more with less.
    Just-in-time learning is more effective than just-in-case learning.
    We are overwhelmed with information in today's digital age.
    Inspiration overload can lead to burnout and lack of focus.
    The inspiration matrix helps prioritize what truly matters.
    Choosing action over information leads to faster results.
    Mistakes are part of the learning process.
    Community feedback can be harsh but is essential for growth.
    Joy of opting out helps manage FOMO.
    Simplicity in approach often leads to better outcomes. It hurts to be hurt, especially for creators.
    Hurt people often project their pain onto others.
    Feedback, even if hurtful, can be valuable for growth.
    Protecting your time is essential for progress.
    Time blocking can help maintain focus on tasks.
    Commit to experiments for a set period to gauge success.
    Count episodes, not downloads, to measure progress.
    Persistence is key, but know when to pivot.
    Chasing money can lead to poor decisions.
    Embrace mistakes as learning opportunities.

    MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/366

    PodMatch has officially launched a podcast network for independent interview-based podcasts! To apply to be part of the network, please visit https://PodMatch.com/network and press the "Join Network" button in the top center of the screen. While you're there, be sure to check out some of the incredible shows in the network!

    13 January 2026, 11:00 am
  • 11 minutes 10 seconds
    Promoting the Podcast You're a Guest On | Kara Goodwin

    Most podcast guests miss out on one of their greatest opportunities, promoting episodes they're featured in! For serious podcast guests who want to get invited back and get recommended among podcast hosts, promotion matters! In this episode, Kara Goodwin explains what hosts are really looking for when choosing guests and how simple promotional actions can lead to more opportunities and stronger relationships. Get ready to become the kind of guest every host wants!

    MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/365

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Podcast Guesting
    02:57 Flipping the Mindset
    06:13 Presenting Value to Hosts
    09:06 Building Collaborative Relationships

    Takeaways

    Flip your mindset about podcast appearances.
    Collaboration can be a win-win for both parties.
    Consider what value you can offer to the host.
    Invest energy in building your social media presence.
    Mention your social media following when pitching.
    Offer to promote the episode to your network.
    Embed the episode on your website for added value.
    Communicate your willingness to collaborate on promotions.
    Follow through on your commitments to hosts.
    Building relationships can lead to more podcast opportunities.

    MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/365

    PodMatch has officially launched a podcast network for independent interview-based podcasts! To apply to be part of the network, please visit https://PodMatch.com/network and press the "Join Network" button in the top center of the screen. While you're there, be sure to check out some of the incredible shows in the network!

    6 January 2026, 11:00 am
  • 12 minutes 30 seconds
    Getting Sponsors for Your Podcast | Justin Moore

    Most podcasters think that landing a sponsor for their show is out of reach or that they don't qualify. This couldn't be further from the truth! In this episode, Justin Moore breaks down exactly how to write a pitch that brands can’t ignore. He shares the four parts you need to include and how to stand out to decision-makers who control budgets. Get ready to start landing real sponsorships without needing to be famous!

    MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/364

    Chapters

    00:00 Unlocking Sponsorship Opportunities
    05:22 Crafting the Perfect Pitch
    11:11 Building Long-Term Relationships with Brands

    Takeaways

    Brand sponsorships can turn creative visions into reality.
    Crafting a compelling pitch is essential for success.
    Relevant pitches increase the likelihood of brand collaboration.
    Organic content can illustrate audience affinity for brands.
    Proof of past success can strengthen your pitch.
    Building relationships with brands is a long-term strategy.
    Persistence is key in following up with brands.
    The pitch is about starting a conversation, not just closing a deal.
    You are not just a podcaster; you are a bridge to brands.
    77% of creators rely on brand collaborations for revenue.

    MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/364

    PodMatch has officially launched a podcast network for independent interview-based podcasts! To apply to be part of the network, please visit https://PodMatch.com/network and press the "Join Network" button in the top center of the screen. While you're there, be sure to check out some of the incredible shows in the network!

    30 December 2025, 11:00 am
  • 10 minutes 20 seconds
    Getting Paid from Podcast Guesting | Shayna Davis

    Most podcast guests believe that the visibility gained from their interviews will lead to paid opportunities. However, visibility and podcast guest appearances alone don't drive revenue! In this episode, Shayna Davis explains how to treat guest appearances as business assets that attract real corporate contracts. You’ll learn how to shift your positioning, speak to decision-makers, and package your expertise for serious deals. Get ready to make your podcast guesting a profitable experience!

    MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/363

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Leveraging Podcast Appearances
    02:47 Understanding Corporate Opportunities
    06:02 Positioning for Corporate Success
    08:50 Monetizing Guest Appearances

    Takeaways

    Visibility does not always equal profitability.
    Most podcast guests do not treat their appearances as business assets.
    Corporations spend trillions on goods and services every year.
    You can leverage your current expertise for corporate contracts.
    Positioning is key to attracting corporate buyers.
    Demonstrate how you solve real business problems for corporations.
    Upgrade your guest bio to highlight business results.
    Create a corporate worthy authority page to attract sponsors.
    Your influence should be bankable, not just visible.
    These corporate deals are more achievable than you think.

    MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/363

    PodMatch has officially launched a podcast network for independent interview-based podcasts! To apply to be part of the network, please visit https://PodMatch.com/network and press the "Join Network" button in the top center of the screen. While you're there, be sure to check out some of the incredible shows in the network!

    23 December 2025, 11:00 am
  • 15 minutes 5 seconds
    Growing Your Show Through Listener Engagement | Jerry Potter

    Most podcasters struggle to keep listeners engaged until the end and to take action after listening. Thankfully, there are steps hosts can take to change this! In this episode, Jerry Potter introduces a simple idea you can add to your next episode that will help your show grow. You'll learn how to keep listeners engaged longer, increase action-taking, and grow your audience, all without changing your podcast format or spending extra time creating new content. Get ready to grow your show faster with less effort!

    MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/362

    Chapters

    00:00 Identifying Podcasting Challenges
    02:28 The Power of Modcasting
    04:47 Introducing the TSL Module
    06:13 Enhancing Engagement and Action
    08:33 Leveraging Short Form Content
    10:26 Creating Effective TSL Modules
    12:50 Simplifying the TSL Workflow

    Takeaways

    We shouldn't wait for our show to grow; we need to grow it ourselves.
    Downloads alone don't equate to listener engagement.
    The TSL module can significantly increase episode retention.
    Modcasting allows for strategic podcast design using modules.
    The TSL module can be added to any existing podcast.
    Enticing content at the end of episodes keeps listeners engaged.
    Short form videos are essential for reaching new audiences.
    Creating TSL modules can save time in content promotion.
    Don't overthink the editing of short form video clips.
    Keep the TSL module simple and relevant to the episode's topic.

    MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/362

    PodMatch has officially launched a podcast network for independent interview-based podcasts! To apply to be part of the network, please visit https://PodMatch.com/network and press the "Join Network" button in the top center of the screen. While you're there, be sure to check out some of the incredible shows in the network!

    16 December 2025, 11:00 am
  • 9 minutes 41 seconds
    Using AI to Prepare for Podcast Interviews | Mike Montague

    As podcast guests, showing up unprepared, overly scripted, or simply repeating yourself in every podcast interview can quickly lead to burnout and a lack of results. But, there's a quick way to ensure you're always uniquely prepared for every podcast interview! In this episode, Mike Montague explains how to utilize AI to help with preparation and positioning for upcoming interviews. Get ready to tailor your message uniquely for every host and their audiences in a way that gets you remembered!

    MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/361

    Chapters

    00:00 Harnessing AI for Podcast Preparation
    02:53 Crafting Your Podcast Persona
    05:45 Sharpening Your Talking Points
    09:04 Connecting Through Storytelling

    Takeaways

    AI can help you show up sharper and more relevant.
    Great guests package their ideas well for hosts.
    Context builds trust, and AI can give you that context.
    Be interesting and memorable, not just prepared.
    AI can be the best brainstorming partner you've ever had.
    Use AI to save time in your prep and promotion.
    Know the show, know the host, and know the audience.
    Don't let AI make you sound more robotic.
    Treat AI like a coach, not a crutch.
    Find fresh stories and personal insights with AI.

    MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/361

    PodMatch has officially launched a podcast network for independent interview-based podcasts! To apply to be part of the network, please visit https://PodMatch.com/network and press the "Join Network" button in the top center of the screen. While you're there, be sure to check out some of the incredible shows in the network!

    9 December 2025, 11:00 am
  • 11 minutes 24 seconds
    How to Become a Better Interviewer | Elizabeth Cush

    Great podcast interviews aren’t about the questions you ask your guest; they’re about how well you listen. Getting this right takes intentionally! In this episode, Elizabeth Cush shares how mindful listening unlocks stronger connections with guests, reveals deeper stories, and keeps conversations engaging and human. Get ready to create interviews that resonate with listeners and make your guests feel seen and heard!

    MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/360

    Chapters

    00:00 The Importance of Mindful Listening
    02:53 Transforming Interview Techniques
    05:59 Practical Tips for Engaging Conversations
    08:55 Continuous Improvement in Podcasting

    Takeaways

    Mindful listening is crucial for great interviews.
    Prepared questions can limit the flow of conversation.
    Being present allows for deeper connections with guests.
    Engaging with guests' stories leads to richer content.
    Take moments to ground yourself before interviews.
    Pay attention to audio and visual cues from guests.
    Rephrase questions to show active listening.
    It's okay to get distracted; just bring your focus back.
    Continuous practice improves podcasting skills.
    Every interview is an opportunity for growth.

    MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/360

    PodMatch has officially launched a podcast network for independent interview-based podcasts! To apply to be part of the network, please visit https://PodMatch.com/network and press the "Join Network" button in the top center of the screen. While you're there, be sure to check out some of the incredible shows in the network!

    2 December 2025, 11:00 am
  • 8 minutes 34 seconds
    How to Be the Podcast Guest Hosts Want Back | Chris Williams

    Many podcast guests overcomplicate interviews and, as a result, end up falling flat. However, the most successful podcast guests use a 3-part framework to stand out from among the rest! In this episode, Chris Williams shares 3 steps for becoming the kind of podcast guest who makes an impact and gets invited back. Get ready to simplify and amplify your approach to podcast guesting so you become every host and listener's favorite guest!

    MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/359

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Podcast Guesting
    01:00 The ACE Method Explained
    04:20 The Importance of Adding Value
    06:48 Encouraging the Audience and Cheering the Host

    Takeaways

    Add real value to the podcast audience.
    Cheer on the host, they're freaking amazing.
    Encourage the audience to take action.
    People don't care how much you know until they know how much you care.
    Do the right work, get the results.
    Your job is to add a ton of value.
    Cheering on the host is such an awesome thing.
    The audience needs motivating.
    You have so much value to add.
    Lean in, cheer on the host, encourage the audience.

    MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/359

    PodMatch has officially launched a podcast network for independent interview-based podcasts! To apply to be part of the network, please visit https://PodMatch.com/network and press the "Join Network" button in the top center of the screen. While you're there, be sure to check out some of the incredible shows in the network!

    25 November 2025, 11:00 am
  • 10 minutes 38 seconds
    Booking Podcast Guests That Add Real Value | Olajumoke Fatoki

    Most podcast host pick their guests based on popularity alone. Sadly, most of the time, those guests disappoint on all levels, and it damages the show's credibility. Thankfully, there's a superior alternative approach you can take! In this episode, Olajumoke Fatoki shares a five-step system to help you book the right guests every time. Get ready to elevate your interviews and make your podcast unforgettable for the people who matter most, your listeners!

    MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/358

    Chapters

    00:00 The Importance of Choosing the Right Guest
    02:48 Framework for Guest Selection
    06:03 Steps to Enhance Podcast Interviews
    08:56 Creating Value for Your Audience

    Takeaways

    Choosing guests based on popularity can backfire.
    A guest's value reflects on the podcast's credibility.
    Guest interviews can elevate a podcast when done right.
    Define your audience's needs before selecting guests.
    Create an ideal guest profile to guide selection.
    Research potential guests within your network.
    Look for rising stars instead of just big names.
    Vet guests by consuming their previous content.
    Prepare guests thoroughly for a successful interview.
    Focus on providing value to your audience.

    MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/358

    PodMatch has officially launched a podcast network for independent interview-based podcasts! To apply to be part of the network, please visit https://PodMatch.com/network and press the "Join Network" button in the top center of the screen. While you're there, be sure to check out some of the incredible shows in the network!

    18 November 2025, 11:00 am
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