From TikTok to the Webby Awards: Jennifer Blake on Podcasting, Content Strategy & Building Real Platforms

In this episode of the podcast, Dustin Polly sits down with Jennifer Blake, a seasoned podcast producer, editor, and host with a rich background in digital media and content strategy.

Jennifer shares her journey into the podcasting world, which began at a digital marketing agency where she worked alongside top entrepreneurs like Ezra Firestone, Gary Vaynerchuk, and Dan Martell. She discusses how that experience taught her the power of podcasting as a tool for lead generation and brand authority.

From being camera-shy to becoming a confident video creator, Jennifer talks about how shifting her mindset to treat content like a “FaceTime with a friend” helped her become more natural on camera. She also dives into her love of editing, her proficiency in Premiere Pro, and how using keyboard shortcuts supercharged her workflow and creativity.

The conversation takes a powerful turn as Jennifer reflects on her TikTok success and setback—building her swimwear business account to nearly 200,000 followers before losing it due to mass reporting. That experience taught her the value of platform diversity and building owned assets like email lists.

Jennifer also shares her content repurposing strategies, her transition from sports podcasting to business-focused shows, and the recent success of helping a client land a Webby Award nomination and secure high-profile sponsorships.

This episode is packed with real insights on content creation, resilience, and how to use podcasting to drive meaningful business growth.

🧠 What You'll Learn:

How Jennifer got started in podcasting and digital marketing

The mindset shift that helped her get comfortable on camera

Editing tips and tricks from a Premiere Pro pro

Why content repurposing is a game-changer Lessons from losing a 200k-follower TikTok account

Why building owned platforms (like email lists) is essential

Behind-the-scenes of landing a Webby nomination and major brand sponsors

🎧 Whether you're a podcaster, content creator, or entrepreneur, this episode will give you the real-world tools and mindset shifts to grow your brand and stay resilient in an ever-changing digital world.

🔗 Mentioned in the Episode:

https://www.instagram.com/polyinnovator/ __________________________________________________________________________

👥 Join My Free Community: Want support, templates, and behind-the-scenes podcast strategies?

Join my free Facebook group here!

https://www.facebook.com/groups/690197153381902 __________________________________________________________________________

Also feel free to reach out to me if you're looking to start, grow, or rebrand your podcast!

ALL my consult calls are FREE!

hookmediaproductions@gmail.com __________________________________________________________________________

My mic is cool right?

ESPECIALLY for your business and brand building.

Shop here : https://chiefswagofficer.com/CHIEFJENNIFER

CODE: CHIEFJENNIFER __________________________________________________________________________

Software I Recommend :

https://libsyn.com/

https://riverside.fm/ __________________________________________________________________________

You can check out Hook Media Productions HERE :

https://www.hookmediaproductions.com/

Whether you’re a podcast host, a business owner looking to expand your reach, or both—this episode is your roadmap to turning conversations into conversions.

In this episode, I sit down with podcast monetization strategist Marcy Page to unpack powerful strategies for turning podcast appearances into qualified business leads.

With six years of experience as a podcast manager, Marcy shares actionable insights on how to use guesting—not just to grow your visibility—but to build authentic relationships that convert.

We break down my WOW Strategy (Where Others Watch)—a proven method for growing your show and your business by featuring guests who already speak to your ideal audience.

Marcy dives deep into how to identify the right shows to appear on, align your messaging with your goals (like promoting a product or service), and position yourself as the expert your audience has been waiting for.

Whether you’re a podcast host, a business owner looking to expand your reach, or both—this episode is your roadmap to turning conversations into conversions.

🔑 What You'll Learn:

Why guesting is a free, high-trust marketing strategy

How to pick shows that align with your target audience

What makes a pitch stand out to podcast hosts

The WOW strategy to grow through mutually beneficial guest swaps

How podcasting builds deep audience connections that convert

🔗 Mentioned in the Episode:

Marcy Page: Podcast Manager & Monetization Strategist

https://marciepaige.com/

Your WOW Strategy Resource

https://youtu.be/_EabkaK9QlM

__________________________________________________________________________

👥 Join My Free Community:

Want support, templates, and behind-the-scenes podcast strategies?

Join my free Facebook group here!

https://www.facebook.com/groups/690197153381902

__________________________________________________________________________

Also feel free to reach out to me if you're looking to start, grow, or rebrand your podcast!

ALL my consult calls are FREE!

hookmediaproductions@gmail.com __________________________________________________________________________

My mic is cool right?

ESPECIALLY for your business and brand building.

Shop here :

https://chiefswagofficer.com/CHIEFJENNIFER

CODE: CHIEFJENNIFER

__________________________________________________________________________ Software I Recommend :

https://libsyn.com/

https://riverside.fm/

__________________________________________________________________________

You can check out Hook Media Productions HERE :

https://www.hookmediaproductions.com/

If you're consistently putting out episodes but not building an email list, you're leaving serious revenue on the table.

In this episode, I’m sharing exactly how I turn a podcast into a lead generation machine—without burning out or constantly hustling to create more content.

If you're consistently putting out episodes but not building an email list, you're leaving serious revenue on the table.

Your podcast shouldn't just entertain or inform—it should convert.

I'm breaking down the 3 key strategies I use to turn listeners into subscribers and eventually, into clients. From creating problem-solving lead magnets to placing CTAs where they actually get heard, and building landing pages that don’t distract—this is a step-by-step guide to making your podcast work harder for your business.

🔑 Topics I Cover:

Why every podcast needs a lead gen strategy

How to craft a lead magnet your ideal listener actually wants

The best CTA placements for maximum conversions

What makes a landing page effective (and what kills conversions)

Why consistent publishing matters and how to stick with it

🎯 Action Items for You:

Create a simple, focused lead magnet that solves one pain point

Add CTAs within the first 5 minutes of each episode

Build a clean, distraction-free landing page just for podcast listeners

Include the link in your show notes and video overlays

Aim to publish on a consistent schedule

🔗 Resources Mentioned: 📥

Grab My Guide: How to Launch a Podcast Using Just Your Phone https://www.hookmediaproductions.com/ __________________________________________________________________________

5 Ways to Repurpose YOUR Podcast for Business Growth:

https://youtu.be/AqPD1ryxqLc __________________________________________________________________________

👥 Join My Free Community: Want support, templates, and behind-the-scenes podcast strategies?

Join my free Facebook group here!

https://www.facebook.com/groups/690197153381902 __________________________________________________________________________

Also feel free to reach out to me if you're looking to start, grow, or rebrand your podcast!

ALL my consult calls are FREE!

hookmediaproductions@gmail.com __________________________________________________________________________

My mic is cool right?

ESPECIALLY for your business and brand building.

Shop here :

https://chiefswagofficer.com/CHIEFJENNIFER

CODE: CHIEFJENNIFER __________________________________________________________________________ Software I Recommend :

https://libsyn.com/

https://riverside.fm/

__________________________________________________________________________

You can check out Hook Media Productions HERE :

https://www.hookmediaproductions.com/

If you’re tired of your podcast being just another piece of content and ready to make it a consistent lead generation machine, this episode is a must-listen.

In this episode I break down three highly effective Calls-to-Action (CTAs) that every business podcaster should be using to convert listeners into leads—and ultimately, paying clients.

Whether you run a local business or a global brand, these strategies are designed to help you leverage your podcast as a powerful marketing tool.

I walk you through how to create a simple yet valuable free downloadable resource that builds your email list, why offering free 15-minute discovery calls can skyrocket your conversion rate, and how creating a private online community can nurture long-term relationships with your audience.

If you’re tired of your podcast being just another piece of content and ready to make it a consistent lead generation machine, this episode is a must-listen.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

Why a free downloadable PDF is one of the easiest, most effective CTAs

How to offer discovery calls that don’t feel salesy

The power of private communities to build trust and drive referrals

Real examples you can implement today to grow your email list and client base

How to use past episodes to fuel your lead generation content

🎯 Action Items:

Repurpose past episodes into a free resource your listeners can download

Offer free 15-minute calls that lead with value, not pressure

Start or grow a Facebook group to build a community of warm leads

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5 Ways to Repurpose YOUR Podcast for Business Growth:

https://youtu.be/AqPD1ryxqLc

__________________________________________________________________________

👥 Join My Free Community:

Want support, templates, and behind-the-scenes podcast strategies?

Join my free Facebook group here!

https://www.facebook.com/groups/690197153381902

__________________________________________________________________________

Also feel free to reach out to me if you're looking to start, grow, or rebrand your podcast!

ALL my consult calls are FREE!

hookmediaproductions@gmail.com __________________________________________________________________________

My mic is cool right?

ESPECIALLY for your business and brand building.

Shop here :

https://chiefswagofficer.com/CHIEFJENNIFER

CODE: CHIEFJENNIFER __________________________________________________________________________ Software I Recommend :

https://libsyn.com/

https://riverside.fm/

__________________________________________________________________________

You can check out Hook Media Productions HERE :

https://www.hookmediaproductions.com

https://www.instagram.com/the_lead_jen_podcast_/

In this episode, I’m breaking down my Five Mile Famous content strategy—My strategy which I have perfected to generate local business thousands if not millions of dollars of leads to their business.

This is designed specifically for local business owners who want to use podcasting as a lead-generating machine.

Whether you're a real estate agent, attorney, gym owner, florist, or roofing contractor, this strategy will show you exactly how to build authority, gain visibility, and attract high-quality leads from your own community.

With hundreds of businesses already using this exact method to generate thousands (and sometimes millions) in revenue, you’ll walk away from this episode with a clear roadmap on how to use podcasting to grow your business—without needing a huge following or celebrity guests.

🔑 WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE: Why podcasting is no longer just for influencers—and why it’s your secret weapon for local lead gen (Lead Jen ahha - get it, I'm Jen)

How to position yourself as the go-to expert in your niche with educational content

The guest strategy that boosts trust instantly (Hint: It’s who your community already knows and respects)

How to repurpose podcast content across social media to stay top of mind The power of local engagement and geo-targeted ads to dominate your five-mile radius

Real examples of local businesses who’ve converted podcasting into serious revenue

💡 WHO THIS IS FOR: Local business owners, service providers, and personal brands who want to leverage content creation to grow their business, build credibility, and become known in their community. __________________________________________________________________________

Also feel free to reach out to me if you're looking to start, grow, or rebrand your podcast!

ALL my consult calls are FREE!

hookmediaproductions@gmail.com

My mic is cool right?

ESPECIALLY for your business and brand building.

Shop here :

https://chiefswagofficer.com/CHIEFJENNIFER

CODE: CHIEFJENNIFER

Software I Recommend :

https://libsyn.com/

https://riverside.fm/

You can check out Hook Media Productions HERE :

https://www.hookmediaproductions.com

www.instagram.com/hook_media_productions/

In this episode of The Lead Jen Podcast, I sit down with Alexa Curtis—former Radio Disney host, podcaster, and founder of Chief Swag Officer, the #1 brand for customizable mic flags and covers.

Alexa shares her incredible entrepreneurial journey, from starting a fashion blog at age 12 to hosting a national radio show and now running a successful business that helps creators and brands visually stand out. We dive into what she learned behind the mic at Disney, how to be intentional when interviewing guests, and why a polished, branded presence matters so much in podcasting.

We also talk about something a lot of creators face: platform dependency.

Alexa opens up about losing her Etsy store overnight, which brought her sales to a halt. I shared a similar story—losing a TikTok account with over 200,000 followers—and how that experience shifted my approach to audience growth and lead generation.

If you’re building a brand or business, you’ll want to hear why owning your audience through your podcast, website, and email list is non-negotiable—and how podcasting can become your most powerful lead generation tool.

This episode is packed with insights, lessons, and a serious reality check about what it really takes to build a brand that lasts.

If you’re ready to maximize your podcast’s potential and PROTECT your brand + business this episode is a must-listen!

__________________________________________________________________________

Follow Alexa & Chief Swag!

https://www.instagram.com/alexa_curtis?igsh=MXM3aTZmcmZrY28xYg==

__________________________________________________________________________

Also feel free to reach out to me if you're looking to start, grow, or rebrand your podcast!

ALL my consult calls are FREE!

hookmediaproductions@gmail.com

My mic is cool right? ESPECIALLY for your business and brand building.

Shop here : https://chiefswagofficer.com/CHIEFJENNIFER

CODE: CHIEFJENNIFER

Software I Recommend :

https://libsyn.com/

https://riverside.fm/

You can check out Hook Media Productions HERE :

https://www.hookmediaproductions.com

www.instagram.com/hook_media_productions/

I have TONS of sponsorship experience working with both small local sponsors and multi-million dollar brands like Ghostbed and Liquid I.V.

The biggest lesson?

Sponsors care about ROI and audience alignment. It’s not about size—it’s about strategy.

In this episode, I’m diving into realistic and effective ways to monetize your podcast—whether you're just starting or ready to level up.

The first real opportunity to generate income?

It’s through lead generation.

I break down how I use podcasting to drive traffic to products, build email lists, and grow social media engagement that actually converts.

Then, I get into sponsorships—and I’m keeping it real. I share my personal experience working with both small local deals and multi-million dollar brands like Ghostbed and Liquid I.V. The biggest lesson? Sponsors care about ROI and audience alignment. It’s not about size—it’s about strategy.

I also reveal creative ways to secure sponsorship-style deals without trading money—like inviting CEOs or marketing execs on the podcast, featuring products naturally in episodes, and repurposing content that includes subtle product placement.

One of my favorite monetization strategies? Affiliate marketing. It’s low-risk and high-reward when done right. Throughout this episode, I emphasize the importance of audience trust and choosing brand partners that actually make sense for your niche. If you're running a women’s health show, you won’t hear me recommending an ice cream sponsor—same goes for business podcasts promoting baseball gear.

This episode is your no-fluff guide to making money with your podcast the SMART way.

If you’re ready to maximize your podcast’s potential and turn it into a client-generating machine, this episode is a must-listen! __________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________

Also feel free to reach out to me if you're looking to start, grow, or rebrand your podcast!

ALL my consult calls are FREE!

hookmediaproductions@gmail.com

Software I Recommend :

https://libsyn.com/

https://riverside.fm/

You can check out Hook Media Productions HERE :

https://www.hookmediaproductions.com

www.instagram.com/hook_media_productions/

If you’re a business owner or personal brand looking to use your podcast as a powerful lead-generation tool, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you level up.

In this episode, I am joined by business coach of NextLevelUniversity, speaker, and podcast host Alan Lazaros to discuss how entrepreneurs and personal brands can leverage podcasting to generate leads and grow their businesses.

Alan shares his journey from corporate tech—to building a successful coaching business and podcast empire with Next Level University, which has released over 2,000 episodes. He introduces his Passion → Purpose → Profit framework, explaining why aligning your business with your passion is key to sustainable success.

Alan also breaks down his Flywheel Method for business and content growth, emphasizing the importance of consistently creating, sharing experiences, and building authentic relationships.

The conversation highlights why social media is non-negotiable for business growth, even if you don’t love it. Alan stresses that you don’t need to be at the "top of the mountain" to help others—you just need to be a step ahead.

🔹 Key Takeaways:

The Passion → Purpose → Profit model for long-term business success

Alan’s Flywheel Method for creating authority and generating leads

Why social media presence is essential for podcast and business growth

How consistency compounds over time

If you’re ready to maximize your podcast’s potential and turn it into a client-generating machine, this episode is a must-listen! __________________________________________________________________________ PODCAST EPISODE REFERENCES

Check out Alan & Next Level University HERE

https://www.nextleveluniverse.com/

__________________________________________________________________________

Also feel free to reach out to me if you're looking to start, grow, or rebrand your podcast!

ALL my consult calls are FREE!

hookmediaproductions@gmail.com

Software I Recommend :

https://libsyn.com/

https://riverside.fm/

You can check out Hook Media Productions HERE :

https://www.hookmediaproductions.com/

www.instagram.com/hook_media_productions/