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!"

  • 12 minutes 18 seconds
    Building AI Search Authority with Podcast Guesting | Jason Barnard

    Most podcast guests treat interviews like one-and-done exposure, then wonder why nothing materialises from it. This is the wrong mindset and a big missed opportunity! In this episode, Jason Barnard shares a simple 10-step generative engine optimization workflow to help hosts and AI search assistants actually recognize and recommend you. Learn how to claim, frame, and prove your expertise so each appearance drives lasting results. Get ready to turn every guest spot into a real return on investment!

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    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Podcast Guesting and AI Influence
    02:21 Defining Your Brand and Credibility
    05:13 Building Your Online Presence
    07:38 Understanding AI Assistive Engines
    10:54 Leveraging AI for Podcast Guesting Success

    Takeaways

    Podcast guesting is a powerful strategy for personal branding.
    AI assistive engines are the new influencers.
    Defining your brand is crucial for effective communication.
    Building a personal website amplifies your online presence.
    Consistency across your digital footprint is key to success.
    Engaging with AI can enhance your visibility in search results.
    Claiming, framing, and proving your expertise is essential.
    Updating past podcast appearances can improve your credibility.
    AI engines operate as recommendation systems now.
    Patience is required for long-term digital strategy success.

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    10 February 2026, 11:00 am
  • 14 minutes 13 seconds
    How to Say No to Guest Pitches | Agi Keramidas

    If your email inbox and direct messages are full of podcast guest requests, you’re not alone. Most podcasters receive hundreds of guest pitches every week! For many of us polite podcasters, saying no can be really difficult. In this episode, Agi Keramidas shares a simple three-filter process to vet guest pitches with clarity. Get ready to protect your time, serve your audience, and say no without guilt!

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    Chapters

    00:00 The Challenge of Guest Requests
    02:56 Establishing a Filtering Process
    05:52 The Three Filters for Guest Selection
    12:09 The Importance of Audio Quality and Professionalism

    Takeaways

    You can't say yes to every guest request.
    Having a clear process respects both the host and guests.
    A dynamic USB microphone is essential for quality.
    Filtering guests helps maintain professionalism.
    Responding politely can turn a no into a positive interaction.
    Categorizing guests into clear categories aids decision-making.
    The 'Prove You Care' test helps assess potential guests.
    Audio quality is crucial for good conversations.
    Setting clear boundaries leads to better guest experiences.
    Saying no is an act of leadership, not rejection.

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    3 February 2026, 11:00 am
  • 30 minutes 54 seconds
    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!

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    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.

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    27 January 2026, 11:00 am
  • 19 minutes 4 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!

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    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.

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    20 January 2026, 11:00 am
  • 38 minutes 40 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!

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    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.

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    13 January 2026, 11:00 am
  • 11 minutes 5 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!

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    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.

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    6 January 2026, 11:00 am
  • 12 minutes 25 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!

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    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.

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    30 December 2025, 11:00 am
  • 10 minutes 15 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!

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    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.

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    23 December 2025, 11:00 am
  • 15 minutes
    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!

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    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.

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    16 December 2025, 11:00 am
  • 9 minutes 35 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.

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    9 December 2025, 11:00 am
  • 11 minutes 18 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!

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    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.

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    2 December 2025, 11:00 am
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