How to Grow Your Podcast in 2026

Ready to grow your podcast in 2026 without burning out? In this episode, I'm sharing four sustainable, impactful strategies to help you stand out and stay energized as a mom who podcasts. Plus, I reveal how Pinterest quietly revolutionized my own podcast growth—and how it can do the same for you.

Hi, I’m Andi Smiley—your podcast guide and coach for moms who want to grow their shows in a way that fits their real life. I bring practical podcast tips, honest stories from my own journey, and wisdom from brilliant podcasters and experts (like the Pinterest pro I’ll be featuring soon!).

Topics Discussed in this Episode

• Four podcast growth strategies for 2026

• How podcast SEO helps more listeners find your show

• Using Pinterest instead of Instagram for podcast marketing

• Why average consumption rate matters more than downloads

• Where to find your podcast analytics beyond downloads

• How Pinterest helped my podcast reach new listeners

• Tips for taking intentional podcast breaks (without ghosting)

• Podcast SEO isn’t scary—just use real words your listeners search for.

• Pinterest is the podcast marketing platform no one’s talking about (yet!).

• Pay attention to how long people actually listen to your episodes.

• Breaks are powerful—but tell your listeners what to expect!

(00:00) Welcome

(00:32) My big podcast marketing aha moment

(01:24) Podcast growth tip #1: Make Podcast SEO your friend

(02:35) Tip #2: Pinterest over Instagram

(04:21) Tip #3: Look at your average consumption rate

(05:33) Tip #4: Take intentional podcast breaks

(06:32) Your one next step: Try Pinterest

• Get on the waitlist for Pinterest Magic for Podcasters

• Episode with Brittany Herzberg on SEO

• Apple Podcast Connect

• Create Pins with Canva

• Follow me on Pinterest