Cross-Promotion Tactics to Grow Your Podcast Audience Fast
Looking to boost your podcast audience quickly without burning out on social media? Cross-promotion is one of the fastest and most organic ways to attract new listeners who are already primed to love your content. At Big Pond Podcasts, we help podcasters grow strategically—so here are 9 cross-promotion tactics that can rapidly expand your audience.
1. Be a Guest on Other Podcasts
Guest appearances put you in front of already-engaged audiences. Choose podcasts with overlapping themes and deliver high-value content that makes listeners want more. This tactic also strengthens your SEO footprint—especially when paired with smart on-page strategies.
2. Bring on Guests with Reach
When you invite thought leaders, influencers, or content creators onto your podcast, you gain access to their audience—especially if they promote the episode. Make it easy for them to share by providing audiograms, social media graphics, and direct links.
3. Share Each Other’s Shows on Social Media
Team up with similar podcasts for mutual shoutouts on Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and LinkedIn. This works particularly well when you’re launching a new season or a themed episode that aligns with your partner’s content.
4. Do Podcast Swaps
A podcast swap is when you promote each other’s shows directly in your episodes. You might add a short 30-second promo in your intro or outro. It’s a powerful and direct way to get your show in front of a like-minded audience.
5. Co-Create Content
Create a limited series or bonus episode with another podcaster. You can dive into a topic together, interview each other, or host a live session. These collaborations feel authentic and help both parties grow.
6. Swap Email Mentions
If you have a mailing list—even a small one—you can exchange newsletter mentions with another creator. It’s a great way to tap into a new audience that trusts the sender.
7. Collaborate in Online Communities
Join podcasting Facebook groups, Reddit threads, or Slack communities. Be active, provide value, and build genuine connections that can lead to shoutouts or guest spots.
8. Use Podcast Networks and Directories
List your show in podcast directories that support niche discovery and cross-promotion. Many networks actively encourage creators to collaborate, giving your podcast more chances to be found.
9. Run Paid Cross-Promotional Ads
Platforms like Overcast offer affordable paid promotion by placing your podcast in front of relevant listeners inside their app. It’s one of the most efficient ways to scale quickly without losing relevance.
Final Thoughts
Cross-promotion is more than a growth hack—it’s about building a web of trust and relevance in your niche. Whether you’re swapping ads, co-hosting episodes, or promoting each other on socials, these partnerships can fuel sustainable growth. Start with one tactic, track your results, and grow from there.