It’s a new year and time for a new outlook on your podcast feedback. If you’ve ever run into criticism and what you’d consider negative feedback about your podcast, we’re here to help you not only manage that feedback but how you can boost your podcast brand with a PR strategy.

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• Understanding the difference between constructive criticism and unhelpful negativity.
  
• Steps to take when receiving critical feedback:
  
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  • Stay calm and avoid a defensive reaction.
    
  • Evaluate the validity of the criticism.
    
  • Turn feedback into actionable steps for improvement.
    
  
  
  
• Stories of podcasters who successfully turned negative feedback into positive outcomes.
  

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• Issues with audio quality, content structure, or engagement style.
  
• Listener preferences versus staying true to your creative vision.
  
• How to balance competing opinions while staying authentic.
  

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• Criticism is an opportunity to grow and refine your podcast.
  
• Crises are moments where a response is essential to protect your brand and relationships.
  

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• How public relations can shape your podcast’s narrative.
  
• Building your brand image through consistent messaging and strategic partnerships.
  
• Tips for handling public relations crises or controversies gracefully.
  

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• Strategies to encourage constructive feedback and dialogue with listeners.
  
• Creating a feedback loop that involves your audience in your podcast’s growth journey.
  
• Using polls, surveys, and social media to crowdsource ideas and gauge listener sentiment.
  

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• Building a reputation as a responsive, audience-first podcaster.
  
• Turning your challenges into relatable stories that humanize your brand.
  
• Leveraging guest appearances and collaborations to bolster your credibility.
  

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• Examples of podcasts that overcame early criticism and became stronger.
  
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  • “The Rest Is History”: Hosted by Tom Holland and Dominic Sandbrook, this podcast faced initial skepticism for its irreverent take on historical events. However, their unique approach resonated with younger audiences, leading to 11 million monthly downloads and significant YouTube views.
    
  
  
  
• Case studies of how smart PR moves propelled a podcast into the spotlight.
  
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  • Wondery’s “Over My Dead Body”: Wondery utilized a comprehensive PR strategy, including organizing a listening premiere in New York City and engaging with local press. This approach led to extensive media coverage and high download numbers, surpassing previous hits like “Dr. Death” and “Dirty John.” Read this Wondery case study.
    
  
  
  

Lessons learned from your own experience or that of your guests.

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