In today’s digital age, everyone is talking about standing out from the crowd, but creating outstanding work might feel like swimming against the current. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, coach, or corporate leader, building authority and personal branding isn’t just a bonus – it’s essential. And I am sure you would have heard the birdie whisper into your ears the word – PODCAST! 

So, let us look at how podcasts can be your golden ticket for building more authority, impact, and revenue. In a matter of a few years, podcasts, with their conversational style and loyal audiences, have rapidly transformed from a niche medium to a powerful tool for influence that’s accessible to all.

Here’s how you can harness the influence of podcasts to solidify your authority and create a personal brand that resonates with your target audience: 

1. Start Your Own Podcast to Share Expertise

Nothing screams “expert” like hosting your own show. As your show becomes your media mouth piece to share your wisdom, knowledge and expertise, a podcast lets you control the narrative, establish credibility, and reach your audience directly.

What will make this happen: 
●    Choose a niche and podcast topic that aligns with your expertise. 
●    Whether it’s marketing, mental health, or parenting hacks, focus on providing actionable insights in every episode.
●    You might be tempted to create a show with mass appeal, but even if it isn’t, you can build loyal audience by opening the floodgates of value creation.

Pat Flynn, creator of the Smart Passive income podcast, began by sharing tips about online business. Today, his podcast isn’t just a resource; it’s a testament to his authority in the space.

2. Be a Guest on Existing Podcasts

Starting your own podcast is fantastic, but being a guest on other established shows is a shortcut to leveraging someone else’s audience. It’s like getting an exclusive invite to a party where your ideal listeners (read potential customers) are already hanging out.

What will make this happen: 
●    Make a podcast guest profile and media kit with your expertise, suggested topics and social links
●    Research podcasts in your niche and pitch yourself as a guest. 
●    Highlight what unique value you bring to their audience.

Low beholds after President Donald Trump, our very own Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi have made their first podcast appearance in 2025 on Nikhil Kamath’s show People. This exposure allowed him to connect with listeners beyond his usual circles, capture the attention of a young audience, elevate brand efficacy and strengthen his thought leadership. 

3. Tell Authentic Stories on Podcast interviews

People connect with stories, not sales pitches. Whether it’s your own podcast or a guest appearance, weave in anecdotes that showcase your journey, struggles, and triumphs.

What will make this happen: 
●    Map out three personal stories that align with your expertise. 
●    Use these stories as anchors to drive your key messages home.
●    Touch upon these stories in each of your podcast interviews to create a consistent brand narrative

Take Nilesh Mishra’s The Slow Interview. Instead of focusing solely on his guests' accolades, he encourages them to share deeply personal stories of struggles and resilience. This storytelling approach creates an emotional connection with the audience, making each episode memorable and impactful.

4. Use Podcasts to Network

Podcasting isn’t just about broadcasting; it’s a two-way street. Hosting or guesting on podcasts gives you a chance to build relationships with other professionals, which can open up collaborations, partnerships, and even business opportunities.

What will make this happen: 
●    After each podcast appearance or episode, connect with guests and hosts on LinkedIn or email. Keep the conversation going.
●    Stay in touch with them on social, and tag them when you release their episode
●    Keep them updated with the performance of their episode even after a few months. This is a great conversation starter and looping-back strategy. 

Varun Duggirala, host of Advertising is Dead, has built a robust network by featuring leaders from industries like media, marketing, and technology. These connections have not only enriched his podcast content but have also led to collaborations, speaking engagements, and business opportunities within the creative industry.

5. Repurpose Podcast Content for Maximum Reach

Podcasts are a treasure trove of content. Don’t let your episodes gather dust after publishing. Repurpose them into blog posts, social media snippets, or even short videos.

What will make this happen: 
●    After recording a podcast, pick 3-5 key takeaways and turn them into bite-sized content for different platforms.
●    Even if it is a guest appearance that you did, do not shy away from promoting the collaterals provided by the host. 
●    Embed the podcast interview on your website for SEO purpose.
Life coach Chetna Chakravarthy, the host of the Positively Unlimited Podcast.  turned her podcast episodes into Instagram reels, where key quotes were paired with eye-catching visuals. The result? A 40% increase in her social media engagement. 

Pros of Podcasting 
●    Podcasts offer information in byte-sized chunks as each episode lasts between 10 and 60 minutes, unlike books, which can take 20 hours to finish.
●    Podcasts are more casual and conversational, making it a pleasurable listening experience.
●    Podcasts allow the audience to multitask as they can drive, cook, or work out while listening to an episode.
●    They are more personal as the listeners hear the host’s voice.

The beauty of podcasts lies in their ability to connect on a deeper level with listeners, helping you build a loyal community. With the right approach, podcasts can transform your personal branding efforts into a powerful, lasting influence that resonates with your audience and opens doors to exciting opportunities. So, whether you're starting your own show or appearing as a guest on others, now is the perfect time to dive into the world of podcasting and begin leveraging its potential to build authority and grow your personal brand.

Conclusion 

Building authority and personal branding is an ongoing process that requires consistency, credibility, and an authentic voice. Podcasting provides an incredible platform for anyone looking to strengthen their presence and make a lasting impact. Whether you're sharing your expertise, telling stories, or engaging with listeners, podcasts offer endless opportunities to establish yourself as an authority in your field. By leveraging your podcast strategically—whether through guest appearances, networking, or repurposing content—you can amplify your voice and reach a wider audience.

About the podcast
Podcasts Unplugged: Elevating Voices of Women Changemakers is a monthly column by Roshni Baronia, an award-winning podcaster, Podcast Strategist, and digital entrepreneur, where she will share her knowledge and expertise with THEWOOMAG readers.    

The column will empower women entrepreneurs, professionals, and podcast enthusiasts to explore podcasting as a tool for thought leadership, business growth, and personal expression. It will break down podcasting trends, share actionable tips, and feature inspiring female voices from the podcasting world. Through this column, readers will discover how podcasts can elevate their impact, life, and learning.
 

Also Read: How Can I Set Realistic Goals for My Online Business and Track Progress? by Sunita Biddu, our expert columnist of The Business Playbook