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! Weโ€™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!"

  • 9 minutes 38 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

    ๐Ÿ“Š This month's Independent Podcasters Report is now available! To see podcasting industry insights that matter for indie podcast hosts and podcast guests, please visit https://PodMatch.com/Report!

    9 December 2025, 11:00 am
  • 11 minutes 21 seconds
    How to Become a Better Interviewer | Elizabeth Cush

    Great podcast interviews arenโ€™t about the questions you ask your guest; theyโ€™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

    ๐Ÿ“Š This month's Independent Podcasters Report is now available! To see podcasting industry insights that matter for indie podcast hosts and podcast guests, please visit https://PodMatch.com/Report!

    2 December 2025, 11:00 am
  • 8 minutes 32 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

    ๐Ÿ“Š This month's Independent Podcasters Report is now available! To see podcasting industry insights that matter for indie podcast hosts and podcast guests, please visit https://PodMatch.com/Report!

    25 November 2025, 11:00 am
  • 10 minutes 35 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

    ๐Ÿ“Š This month's Independent Podcasters Report is now available! To see podcasting industry insights that matter for indie podcast hosts and podcast guests, please visit https://PodMatch.com/Report!

    18 November 2025, 11:00 am
  • 12 minutes 31 seconds
    Getting Your Studio Setup Right as a Guest | Junaid Ahmed

    Most podcast guests are prepared to share their message on as many podcasts as possible. But trust is won or lost before the first word is ever spoken. Your video, audio, and environment matter! In this episode, Junaid Ahmed shares how to create a guest setup that builds credibility on sight and sound. From your microphone and lighting to your camera and backdrop, youโ€™ll learn how to ensure your presence reflects your expertise so your message actually lands. Get ready to stand out by showing up like a professional podcast guest!

    MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/357

    Chapters

    00:00 The Importance of First Impressions
    04:54 Building the Sine Framework
    10:15 Transforming Presence for Impact

    Takeaways

    Your mic, lighting, and video quality build trust.
    Initial impressions are formed within the first 7 seconds.
    Quality audio is the foundation of trust.
    Your background frames your expertise.
    The biggest source of noise is internal dissonance.
    Focus on connection rather than performance.
    Good lighting shows respect for the audience.
    Your environment should enhance your message.
    Transform your presence to create opportunities.
    Your presence is inseparable from the expertise you share.

    MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/357

    ๐Ÿ“Š This month's Independent Podcasters Report is now available! To see podcasting industry insights that matter for indie podcast hosts and podcast guests, please visit https://PodMatch.com/Report!

    11 November 2025, 11:00 am
  • 12 minutes 43 seconds
    How to Stay Motivated in Podcasting | Shara Goswick

    Most podcasters get discouraged when the results don't come fast. It causes many to question if podcasting is worth the effort, even though they know it would lead to good things. Thankfully, there's something you can do to stay motivated! In this episode, Shara Goswick shares how knowing your purpose helps you stay consistent, connected, and clear about what matters. Get ready to recenter and realign so you can keep going and make a bigger impact!

    MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/356

    Chapters

    00:00 The Power of Your Why
    02:49 Staying Focused on Your Purpose
    06:08 Authenticity and Connection
    09:00 Embracing Change and Growth

    Takeaways

    Your why is the lifeline of your show.
    Knowing your why keeps you intentional in your content creation.
    Your why helps you stay focused on what really matters.
    Authenticity resonates more than perfection with your audience.
    Your why is a filter for your content decisions.
    Staying true to your why builds trust with your listeners.
    Your why can evolve as you grow in your podcasting journey.
    Reflecting on your why helps you appreciate your progress.
    Change can be an opportunity for growth when rooted in your why.
    Your podcasting journey is also about personal growth.

    MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/356

    ๐Ÿ“Š This month's Independent Podcasters Report is now available! To see podcasting industry insights that matter for indie podcast hosts and podcast guests, please visit https://PodMatch.com/Report!

    4 November 2025, 11:00 am
  • 37 minutes 15 seconds
    Ensuring Success in Podcasting | Glenn Hebert, Jaime Legagneur, Rob Greenlee

    There's a 94% failure rate among podcast hosts and podcast guests. Most people quit podcasting altogether before ever achieving any meaningful results. The reality is that it doesn't have to be this way! There's a way to ensure your success in podcasting! In this episode, Alex Sanfilippo talks with Rob Greenlee, Glenn Hebert, and Jaime Legagneur to learn the 3 key things that have led to their success as podcast hosts and guests. Get ready to start experiencing positive results from your podcasting efforts!

    MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/355

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Podcasting Legends
    05:26 The Importance of Commitment in Podcasting
    16:45 Continuous Improvement: The Key to Success
    27:56 Building Community Among Listeners

    Takeaways

    Longevity plays a crucial role in podcasting success.
    Commitment to a consistent schedule is essential for growth.
    Starting with fewer episodes can help avoid burnout.
    Continuous improvement is key to enhancing podcast quality.
    Networking helps improve storytelling and presentation skills.
    Building a community fosters listener loyalty and engagement.
    Authenticity in hosting attracts and retains listeners.
    Feedback from a focus group can guide content improvement.
    Creating a space for community discussion enhances listener connection.
    Engaging with listeners post-episode strengthens relationships.

    MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/355

    ๐Ÿ“Š This month's Independent Podcasters Report is now available! To see podcasting industry insights that matter for indie podcast hosts and podcast guests, please visit https://PodMatch.com/Report!

    28 October 2025, 10:00 am
  • 16 minutes 44 seconds
    How Podcasters Can Stand Out in the World of AI | Alex Sanfilippo

    AI has flooded the world of podcasting, making it more competitive and crowded than ever before. Thankfully, there's a way that podcasters can stand out by simply being themselves. In this episode, Alex Sanfilippo shares that the best way to stand out in the world of AI is by embracing your humanity and doubling down on your own unique creativity. Get ready to stand out more than you ever have as a podcast host or guest without having to sell your soul!

    MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/354

    Chapters

    00:00 The Inbox Dilemma: AI's Impact on Communication
    07:29 Standing Out in the Age of AI: Key Strategies

    Takeaways

    AI is increasingly influencing communication, leading to frustration in personal interactions.
    Human-created content resonates better with audiences than AI-generated content.
    Direct communication should always be human to human to foster genuine connections.
    AI should be used to save time, allowing creators to focus on their creative efforts.
    Creativity is a muscle that needs to be exercised to avoid losing it.
    Podcasters should prioritize their unique voice in their content.
    AI can assist with administrative tasks but should not replace human creativity.
    Engagement and connection are key to standing out in a crowded space.
    The human element is irreplaceable in content creation and communication.
    Using AI effectively means leveraging it without losing one's personal touch.

    MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/354

    ๐Ÿ“Š This month's Independent Podcasters Report is now available! To see podcasting industry insights that matter for indie podcast hosts and podcast guests, please visit https://PodMatch.com/Report!

    21 October 2025, 10:00 am
  • 34 minutes 18 seconds
    Reclaiming Your Creative Power | Chase Jarvis

    It's easy to lose your creativity trying to keep up with what the world expects from you. But staying safe can cost you your voice as a podcast host or podcast guest. In this episode, Chase Jarvis and Alex Sanfilippo explore how to reconnect with your intuition, attention, and play to unlock the creative power already inside you. Get ready to break out of burnout, reclaim your joy, and show up more fully behind the microphone than ever before!

    MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/353

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Creativity and Podcasting
    02:30 Living by Others' Rules
    07:30 Lever 1: The Power of Attention
    12:00 Lever 2: Time and Life's Length
    17:25 Lever 3: Trusting Intuition
    23:20 Lever 5: The Importance of Play
    30:13 Final Thoughts and Book Insights

    Takeaways

    Creativity often gets stifled by societal expectations.
    Attention is a powerful tool that shapes our experiences.
    Life is long, allowing for exploration and mistakes.
    Trusting your intuition can lead to fulfilling decisions.
    Playfulness is essential for creativity and joy.
    Many adults lose their innate creativity over time.
    Safety is an illusion; taking risks is necessary for growth.
    Action is more important than intellect in achieving success.
    Success is often a series of small, intuitive decisions.
    Reclaiming your creativity can lead to a more fulfilling life.

    MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/353

    ๐Ÿ“Š This month's Independent Podcasters Report is now available! To see podcasting industry insights that matter for indie podcast hosts and podcast guests, please visit https://PodMatch.com/Report!

    14 October 2025, 10:00 am
  • 15 minutes 53 seconds
    How to Pitch to Be a Podcast Guest | Alice Draper

    Most podcast pitches get ignored, and it's not because the guest isn't impressive. It's because the pitch isn't. Thankfully, getting your podcast guest pitch right is simple! In this episode, Alice Draper shares exactly what makes a podcast host say yes, from personalized openers to story-driven hooks and value-packed talking points. Get ready to fix your pitch, stand out in any inbox, and get booked on more podcasts you want to be on!

    MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/352

    Chapters

    00:00 The Art of Podcast Guest Pitches
    02:53 Crafting a Compelling Pitch
    06:09 The Importance of Personalization
    09:00 Creating Value-Driven Speaking Points
    11:50 Demonstrating Credibility in Your Pitch
    15:10 Final Tips for Successful Pitches

    Takeaways

    Podcast hosts do not ignore pitches because the guest isn't interesting.
    The key to a successful pitch is personalization and storytelling.
    Avoid generic pitches; they are easily ignored.
    Lead with a strong narrative hook to capture attention.
    Adding timeliness to your pitch can enhance its relevance.
    Hosts want to know what value the audience will gain from the episode.
    Specific speaking points increase the likelihood of a positive response.
    Demonstrate your credibility with a concise bio and relevant links.
    Make it easy for hosts to say yes to your pitch.
    Refine your pitch by asking critical questions before sending it out.

    MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/352

    ๐Ÿ“Š This month's Independent Podcasters Report is now available! To see podcasting industry insights that matter for indie podcast hosts and podcast guests, please visit https://PodMatch.com/Report!

    7 October 2025, 10:00 am
  • 13 minutes 37 seconds
    How Saying No Helps Your Show Grow | Suzanne Culberg

    Saying yes to every guest pitch can dilute your message and confuse your listeners. It might feel polite, but it's holding your podcast back from real impact! In this episode, Suzanne Culberg shares four clear filters that help you decide who actually belongs on your show and how to say no without guilt. Get ready to protect your time, serve your audience better, and grow a show that stays aligned with your purpose!

    MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/351

    Chapters

    00:00 The Importance of Saying No in Podcasting
    02:54 Finding the Right Fit: Audience Overlap
    05:45 Choosing Topics Wisely
    09:05 Building Rapport with Guests
    12:01 Aligning Promotional Strategies

    Takeaways

    Saying no is often the best thing you can do for your audience.
    It's a triple win for everyone involved.
    You want to ensure that there is some level of audience overlap.
    Sometimes it's the topic that leads to a no.
    If you have no rapport with your guest, your listeners will pick up on that.
    You can just tell that there's no chemistry.
    What is your overarching bigger thing for your podcast?
    You decide for your requirements for your show.
    Clear is kind, whichever ones of these you choose to take.
    Podcasting is incredible, it's valuable.

    MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/351

    ๐Ÿ“Š This month's Independent Podcasters Report is now available! To see podcasting industry insights that matter for indie podcast hosts and podcast guests, please visit https://PodMatch.com/Report!

    30 September 2025, 10:00 am
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