Solo vs Guest Episodes: Which Format Grows Your Podcast Faster?
In this value-packed episode, Alex Chisnall and James Burtt dive into one of the biggest format questions for podcasters: solo episodes vs guest interviews. Whether you're just starting or looking to grow and monetise your podcast, understanding how each format contributes to reach, authority, and audience engagement is crucial. From storytelling strategies to content repurposing hacks, this episode gives you a real-world, no-fluff comparison backed by personal experience and hundreds of podcast launches.
What You'll Learn in This Episode:
The biggest benefits (and drawbacks) of solo episodes
How guest interviews can organically boost your reach
Why doing both formats can supercharge your podcast
The role of thought leadership in the expert economy
Real-life examples from top podcasters like Steven Bartlett and Gary Vee
Tips for scripting, pacing, and bullet-point prompting in solo episodes
How to build a deeper connection with your ideal listener
🎙️ Ready to Launch or Level Up Your Podcast?
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Key Takeaways:
Solo episodes help build expert authority and position you as a thought leader
Guest episodes are brilliant for growing your reach and tapping into new audiences
You don’t have to pick one—mix formats based on what serves your audience best
Pre-recorded content allows you to be human—don’t aim for perfection
Always make content with your ideal listener in mind
Recommended Tools & Resources:
YourPodcastCourse.com — Step-by-step tools, templates & trainings to launch and grow your podcast
Otter.ai — Our go-to tool for fast, accurate podcast transcriptionsGary Vee's Content Deck — Google this free guide for repurposing macro content into 70+ micro pieces
Join the Conversation:
If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow podcaster looking to grow their revenue. For more resources and expert advice, explore our latest content and stay connected with us on social media for valuable podcasting insights.
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TikTok: @podschool.community
YouTube: @stargrowmonetiseyourpodcast
LinkedIn: James Burtt & Alex Chisnall
In this show, we discuss:
solo podcast episodes, guest podcast format, how to grow your podcast, podcasting for entrepreneurs, podcast tips 2025, how to monetise your podcast, start a podcast, podcast launch strategy, B2B podcasting, podcast thought leadership, Alex Chisnall podcast, James Burtt podcast, Your Podcast Course, solo vs guest podcast, content repurposing podcast, podcasting tips YouTube
How To Start, Grow and Monetise Your Podcast
How To Start, Grow, and Monetise Your Podcast with James Burtt & Alex ChisnallTurn your podcast idea into an impactful brand and income stream! Join podcast experts James and Alex—who have launched 400+ top-charting podcasts—as they share practical and tactical steps to build, grow, and monetise your show. Each episode delivers actionable tips on podcast equipment, content strategy, audience growth, and brand monetisation to help you thrive in podcasting.Perfect for entrepreneurs, content creators, and anyone ready to amplify their voice, this is your weekly guide to profitable podcasting. Join the free Pod School community for exclusive resources, trainings, and support.Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, Amazon Music, and many more.
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