Tag podcasts for executives

3 Questions to Ask When Handling Criticism and Negative Feedback as a Thought Leader

Putting yourself out there always comes with the risk of criticism. 

When you perceive someone is attacking you, it can be almost impossible to see the negativity as an opportunity. 

But it doesn’t have to be this way. 

You don’t have to get defensive because a hater can become your biggest fan if you learn from negative feedback. 

The most successful thought leaders actively seek out constructive criticism to help them refine their ideas.

So how do you handle criticism and negative feedback in a way that is productive and constructive? Here are three questions to ask yourself before responding:

  1. Is the criticism valid?
    Before you react, take a step back and consider whether the criticism has any merit. Is it based on a misunderstanding or misinterpretation of your ideas? Maybe just a troll? Or is there a legitimate flaw in your argument or approach? If the criticism is valid, acknowledge it and use it as an opportunity to learn and grow.
  1. Who is giving the feedback?
    Consider the source of the criticism. Is it coming from someone who has expertise in your field? Or is it from someone who may not have a full understanding of your work? Understanding the context and perspective of the feedback can help you respond in a more productive way.
  1. What is your goal?
    Think about what you hope to achieve by responding to the criticism. Do you want to defend your ideas? Clarify your position? Engage in a constructive dialogue with the person giving the feedback? Having a clear goal in mind can help you respond in a way that is productive and effective.

Handling criticism and negative feedback is an ongoing process. It takes practice and self-awareness to respond in a way that is constructive and productive. But by asking yourself these three questions and approaching criticism with an open mind, you can turn negative feedback into an opportunity for growth and improvement.

How to Differentiate Yourself from Other Thought Leaders in Your Industry

So many people are so busy fitting in that they forget to celebrate their unique viewpoint. Sometimes you fit in by standing out. 

And when you don’t celebrate what makes you YOU, the world is missing out. 

What if you feel like you don’t have anything “special” to say when there are so many other thought leaders who have communities based around their words/solutions? 

It means you are too close to your own experiences to see the angles you can work to stand out. 

You don’t need to climb Mount Everest or pretend your toddler speaks like a genius to gain attention. All you need to do is sit down with a ghostwriter who can pull out the nuggets of wisdom in your experiences. 

 Here’s how to make the process easier: 

  1. Identify Your Target Audience: Start by identifying the group of people you want to appeal to with your book. Who are they and what are their interests, pain points, and challenges? 
  2. Brainstorm Potential Topics: After you have a clear idea of your target audience, brainstorm a list of potential topics that would appeal to them. Think about the problems that you have faced in your industry and how you have overcome them. 
  3. Research the Competition: Before finalizing your topic, research the competition to see what has already been written in your niche. Look for gaps in the market that you can fill with your unique perspective.
  1. Create a Road Map: Once you have a topic, create an outline of your book to help you organize your thoughts and ideas. This will help you see how your experiences and insights fit together and will give you a roadmap to follow/tweak as you work with your ghostwriter. 

Humanize Your Brand & Revolutionize Your Industry

Just like Steve Jobs did with Apple, you too can humanize your brand and revolutionize your industry.

I understand the importance of building a community around your solutions to connect with more people.

With a ghostwriter, you’ll be able to reach a wider audience and make a bigger impact in the world. I know what it takes to humanize a successful brand; I am here to guide you every step of the way.

Imagine a world where you are the newest icon in your industry, leading the way for others to follow. It can be a reality.

The Best Script for Rookie Podcasters

  • Intro: Brief summary of the episode’s contents. Introduce yourself, your podcast, and any guests. (Duration: _____ )
  • [Sponsor message]
  • [Theme music]
  • Topic A: _______________ (Duration: ___ )
  • Main point
  • Supporting points
  • Data, quotes, or other information
  • Segue (can be a sound effect, short musical clip, or a phrase)
  • Topic B: _______________ (Duration: ___ )
  • Main point
  • Supporting points
  • Data, quotes, or other information
  • [Sponsor message]
  • Topic C: _______________ (Duration: ___ )
  • Main point
  • Supporting points
  • Data, quotes, or other information
  • Outro: _____ (Duration: ____ )
  • Recap
  • Call to action
  • [Closing theme music]

You have a message that you want to share with the world, but you don’t know how to start a podcast. Podcasting is a great way to share your message with the world, but it can be intimidating to get started. I can help you get their message out there to engage and educate your listeners.

This Podcast Template Can Be Your New Co-Host

Ready to take your podcasting skills to the next level? Podcasting with a co-host can be a lot of fun, but it can also be tough to keep the conversation flowing. That’s why I’ve created this template – so you can focus on your solutions for your niche and build communities around your words.

You’ll sound like a pro with my easy-to-use template; your listeners will appreciate the flow of conversation.

Keep reading and schedule a time to talk with me. <calendly link>

Template: 

  • Intro: Brief summary of the episode’s contents. Introduce yourself, your podcast, and any guests. (Duration: _____ )
  • [Sponsor message]
  • [Theme music]
  • Topic A: ________ (Duration: ___ )
  • [Segue] (sound effect, short musical clip, or phrase) 
  • Topic B: ________ (Duration: ___ )
  • [Segue] 
  • Topic C: ________ (Duration: ___ )
  • [Segue] 
  • Outro: (Duration: ___ ) 
  • Recap 
  • Call to action 
  • [Sponsor message] 

[Closing music jingle/sound effects]

You’ve been struggling to create a community for your solutions. It’s hard enough to get people interested in your product, let alone engage them enough to stick around and participate in a community built around your solutions.

I can help with the tools and resources needed to get started, including a co-host template that makes it easy for you and your co-host to get communities built around your solutions.

Your Template for an Interview-Based Podcast

The most popular podcast format is the conversational/interview show. Audiences love the easygoing nature of conversations, where listeners feel that they’re simply sitting in on a talk between friends (whether the content is comedic, educational, or simply friendly banter).

These types of podcasts work best with a loose structure that supports the conversational element. It’s key to give the hosts space to speak normally and let the conversation flow as it wills while providing the right amount of structure to keep it from going off the rails.

Interview: 

  • Intro: Concise summary of the upcoming episode’s contents. Intro yourself, your podcast, and any guests. (Duration: _____ )
  • [Sponsor message]
  • [Theme music]
  • Guest introduction: Guest bio, including their title, experience, and any relevant accomplishments. Thank them for joining the podcast. 
  • Question 1 (Duration: ____ )
  • Question 2 (Duration: ____ )
  • [Sponsor message]
  • Question 3 (Duration: ____ )
  • Outro: _____ (Duration: ____ )
  • Recap
  • Call to action

[Closing theme music]

Ready to build communities around your solutions? Schedule a call with me!

Script for Your Solo Podcast

You don’t need a co-host to produce a great podcast. With my easy-to-use podcast template, you can create a professional-sounding podcast on your own – without any prior experience.

My template is simple to use and helps you sound like a pro from the start. It is also easy to update as your show grows.

Get started today and create your very own podcast!

Bare bones template

  • Intro: _____ (Duration: _____ )
  • [Sponsor message]
  • [Theme music]
  • Topic 1: _______ (Duration: ____ )
  • Notes
  • Topic 2: _______ (Duration: ____ )
  • Notes
  • Segue
  • Topic 3: _______ (Duration: ____ )
  • Notes
  • Outro: _____ (Duration: ____ )
  • [Closing theme music]

Detailed solo

  • Intro: Brief summary of the episode’s contents. Introduction of yourself and your guest. (Duration: _____ )
  • [Sponsor message]
  • [Theme music]
  • Topic A: _______________ (Duration: ___ )
  • Main point
  • Supporting points
  • Data, quotes, or other information 
  • Topic B:  _______________ (Duration: ___ )
  • Main point
  • Supporting points
  • Data, quotes, or other information
  • Segue
  • Topic C: _______________ (Duration: ___ )
  • Main point
  • Supporting points
  • Data, quotes, or other information
  • Outro: _____ (Duration: ____ )
  • Recap
  • Call to action
  • [Closing theme music]

Podcasting can be a lot of fun, but it’s also a lot of work. Not only do you have to come up with interesting topics and guests, but you also have to write the show notes for each episode.

I can help with my quick and easy podcast writing services that will engage your audience and help build communities around your solutions.

How NDAs Help Your Brand…


The relationship between a writer and their client is always important. It is especially critical when working with a ghostwriter. Finding fresh angles can be difficult in a market so crowded with all types of voices. Having an NDA in place ensures all parties understand the terms of the relationship and the scope of deliverables they are creating together.

An NDA protects both the writer and the client, giving each peace of mind and confidence during the process. Without an NDA, there could be confusion surrounding ownership of ideas and compensation claims, which could lead to conflict down the line.

By having clear rules established up front through an NDA, both writer and client can collaborate seamlessly and focus on what really matters: creating a great piece of content that will stand out in today’s crowded market. If you’re considering hiring a ghostwriter for your next project, make sure to get that vital NDA signed as soon as possible.

Let’s get started on your NDA today: https://calendly.com/maureencastellon


What You Need to Know If You’re Thinking of Hiring a Ghostwriter

Finding the best writer for your project is critical. If you’re considering hiring a ghostwriter for a book, article, or other project, there are a few key things you need to know about this process.
What to look for may surprise you.


References and a portfolio are not always available

If a ghostwriter is conducting business correctly, they will not have a wealth of references. It might also be hard to get samples of their work. After an NDA is signed, the writer cannot share their work. You can pay a ghostwriter to create a sample chapter or deliverable to evaluate their work.

Not having experience in your industry is normal/acceptable
A ghostwriter doesn’t need to have experience in your field as long as the writing skills are there. In fact, it may be best if they don’t. You won’t have to correct any misconceptions and can even guide the writer to have the same perspective as you.

Communication shouldn’t be 24/7

A writer needs time to write. If both of you have agreed upon a process, communication can be flexible. What matters is your vision is exceptionally reflected. Make sure to provide a brief for the project so there doesn’t have be a ton of back and forth. 

Although ghostwriters keep a low profile, they are accessible. Let’s discuss your upcoming projects. Schedule a time with me now: https://calendly.com/maureencastellon

How to Optimize Your Podcast Show Notes

A well-crafted podcast is a perfect addition to your inbound marketing strategy. Pods are highly engaging and readily accessible to global audiences. They can build credibility by showcasing true thought leadership, shaping the narrative around industries.

Simple and cost-effective, each episode can be heard by target audiences no matter the industry.

Selling expertise is more powerful than selling a product or service. Having notes for each episode of your podcast is a must. You wouldn’t go on a road trip without a GPS. The same goes for a podcast episode.

Show notes can be a guide to engage your audience/niche and share resources, such as:
your Patreon link
affiliate links and discount codes
newsletter sign-ups
a summary of the episode
a shareable link to the episode

Benefits of a show roadmap

Selling your company’s expertise is more powerful than selling a product or service. Your listeners come to you for information. Winging it can make you waste an opportunity to build trust and your professional/personal brand. With a plan, you can also create more effective calls to action listeners want to act on.

 Attract new listeners

With careful research, you can appeal to your audience and attract new followers. New content that is high-value is the only way to extend your reach and maintain your current audience. Show notes based on this roadmap convert traffic from your website to your podcast and encourage viewers to subscribe.Having key points and memorable quotes handy makes it easier for your listeners to share the podcast on socials, increasing your exposure. 

Optimize

Finding the right keywords and weaving them into your content so they sound conversational is an SEO strategy for pods. Picking the best keywords can boost your performance in podcast apps and search engines. Optimized audio content allows new listeners to stumble across it and they will listen with rapt attention if it hits their pain points. 

Cross promote

No matter how much of an expert you are in your field, you will need guests to keep the value flowing. When potential guests see that you promote people and businesses in your show notes, they are more likely to agree to be on your podcast. Booking more podcast guests can grant you exposure to their audience. 

Promote your back catalog

Linking past episodes that are relevant to the current episode can help keep listeners engaged. 

Elements of stellar show notes

What you include in your show notes depends on your preference. Here are some best-practice options.

SEO-optimized title

The best keywords should be in your: 

Episode title
Episode summary

Intro

Description

Body text
Investing some time into figuring out which keywords your potential listeners are searching for will guide the content you create.

Episode description

Catch listener attention with a keyword-rich episode description. By enticing them to listen, you can help solve their problems. Aim for 100 to 200 words.

Bullet points of main topics

Bullet points help you outline the main points of your episode. Harness the power of timestamps for SEO and to make it easy for the listener to navigate. In this episode, we’re going to look at some ways you can effectively promote your podcast using Instagram Stories.

Introduction 00:27 –
Behind the scenes 00:51 –
Share from Spotify 01:10 –
How to create soundbites through visuals 01:54 –
Reels and the art of repurposing 02:16 –
User-generated content 02:48 –
Countdown sticker 03:17 –
Harnessing highlights

Guest bios

Give every guest a grand entrance. They may give you a prepared bio or expect you to provide one. Start by highlighting their accomplishments and promoting their links in about 75 words.

“In this episode, Jordan Grey joins me as we discuss key data points for 2023. Jordan was voted top 50 under 50 for marketing professionals by Ocean Drive magazine. She started her own agency in high school. Her roster includes Vogue magazine, Better Homes and Garden (R) Real Estate, and Capital Records. She is also an accomplished flamenco dancer.”

Affiliate links

Aside from mentioning an affiliate product on your podcast, provide a link so listeners can research the item and make a purchase. Your show notes must include links and discount codes to boost monetization and conversions.


Links to additional resources

Quotes, data, articles, or other material referenced in your episode need to be linked to build your credibility.
Episode transcriptions


A great way to boost SEO, transcriptions should be thorough. They can be posted on the episode page of your website and linked in the show notes.

Call to action
A call to action is one step you want listeners to take after hearing your episode. 

Signing up for your newsletter
Subscribing to your podcast
Buying a product
Enrolling in courses
Pick only one CTA.


Show Notes Template 
The longer your notes are, the less chance you have of going off the rails with tangents or filler because you lost the plot.  Date:Name of podcast:Episode title and number:

Brief summary of episode:  200 words.

Paragraphs on the main topic with a few keywords sprinkled in.

Main topic #1 Paragraph

Main topic #2 Paragraph

Main topic #3 Paragraph

[Episode transcript]


Sponsorships:Sponsor’s name, a short summary, and a link to their landing page. Repeat as necessary.Resources:Resource link #1Resource link #2Resource link #3Social media handles: 

Other materials:

Call to action (choose one):Newsletter sign-upE-course registrationShareable link to episode:

Let’s discuss the goals of your podcast and how you can change your industry with your thought leadership: ht
tps://calendly.com/maureencastellon