How to Promote Your Podcast Offline

2025 is the year of offline marketing. Case in point: Apple TV’s Severance. If you haven’t watched it yet, I highly recommend it. They did one of the most iconic in-person marketing events I’ve seen since 2020 at Grand Central Station. They set up a big glass box in the middle of the terminal with the actors inside, reenacting the office environment from the show—no prior announcement, no hype. It was brilliant because it simply appeared, drew crowds, and generated buzz online and offline. It gave viewers a real life experience in an online world.

Listen to this Episode: Apple Podcasts | Spotify

The same strategies work to promote your podcast offline. We have been so oversaturated with digital ads that it’s refreshing—and often more effective—to go back to what’s old. By simply creating a memorable, share-worthy experience in the real world, you can stand out from the online noise.

Why Offline Marketing Matters

Listeners want genuine interactions, and a personal recommendation or a memorable in-person event can go a long way. In a world where we scroll past hundreds of generic podcast clips everyday, offline marketing cuts through the clutter and gives potential listeners a reason to pay attention and a reason to be engaged.?

1. Get Business Cards with a QR Code

I have said it before: what’s old is new again. Business cards might seem old-school, but they remain one of the easiest ways to capture interest. Design a simple, eye-catching card featuring your podcast name, logo, and a QR code that takes people directly to your show.

• Step-by-Step: Design your card with your podcast branding (logo, color scheme, or artwork). Include a clear call to action: “Scan to Listen” or “Scan to Subscribe.” Print them at a reliable service like Vistaprint, Canva, or your local printer.

Just remember—printing the cards is only half the battle. You have committed to talking about your podcast in your daily life. When someone asks what you do, slip that business card in their hand and invite them to scan.

2. Talk About Your Podcast—Everywhere

Don't be shy. I’m always surprised by how many podcasters hesitate to share what they do in everyday conversation. People who like you will likely want to listen, and those people often become your biggest evangelists. Friends and family recommend my show all the time, even if they have zero plans to start a podcast themselves. That word-of-mouth can be priceless.

So, talk about your podcast. When you meet someone new, mention it in your introduction. When a friend asks what’s new, say you’ve been podcasting. Let them know you have resources if they or someone they know wants to start a podcast. And always keep those business cards handy!

3. Find the Right Community & Events

The Power of Like-Minded People

Building a community is essential for any podcast. Whether you host a show about gardening, small business, or pop culture, there are groups of people who share your passion. Seek out conferences, local meetups, clubs, or associations that relate to your podcast’s topic.

Speak at Events

Podcasts I produce have spoken at everything from business workshops and Rotary Club luncheons to college events. Is it the most targeted way to grow a podcast? No, but it builds in person community and awareness. You never know who will be interested—or who they know. Even if your local community events seem small, they can foster long-lasting connections.

Host Your Own Workshop or Meetup

If you can’t find relevant events, create your own. Plan a small workshop, retreat, or luncheon around your podcast’s topic. Partner with experts in your field, invite local businesses, and position your show as a leader in the space. By bringing people together under a common interest, you establish credibility and create ambassadors for your podcast.

4. Sponsor or Booth at Live Events

Grow by Supporting Others

Consider big conferences, niche meetups, or community fairs related to your show’s theme. For example, if you run a small-business bookkeeping podcast, sponsor an event for local entrepreneurs and use that platform to showcase your expertise.

• Step-by-Step: Identify relevant industry or community events. Contact the organizers about sponsorship options or vendor booths. Prepare branded visuals (banners, table displays) highlighting your podcast, and display a QR code for easy subscription.

5. Partner with Brands & Influencers

Collaborative Promotions

If your show is about business operations, team up with a popular project management tool. If you focus on entrepreneurship, collaborate with a local coworking space to host an event or giveaway.

You don’t always need a formal sponsorship deal. Sometimes, an informal collaboration—like co-hosting a live workshop—can be just as powerful.

6. Perfect Your Podcast Pitch (in 30 Seconds or Less)

Clarity is key. I have an entire episode dedicated to pitching your podcast in 30 seconds or less (Episode 8). You can have the most impressive offline strategy, but if you can’t quickly explain why someone should listen, you’ll miss out. Develop a concise, compelling elevator pitch that highlights:

1. What your show is about?
2. Who should listen to the podcast?
3. Why listeners should listen?

Remember, you can learn more about crafting the perfect pitch in Ep. 8 listen here or work with me on a 1-hour coaching session. Find out more here.

7. Build a Community, Not Just a Podcast

I have said it many times: listeners want more than just audio—they want to feel connected. By creating offline touchpoints—whether that’s through events, workshops, or partnerships—you build a network of supporters who talk about your show long after they’ve listened. Word-of-mouth remains the best form of advertising.

Ready to Grow Your Podcast?

I have made it my mission to help fellow podcasters—just like you—grow through creative, offline marketing tactics. If you need guidance on building your podcast community, clarifying your pitch, or finding offline opportunities, I am here to help.

I see firsthand how powerful offline promotion can be for your podcast. It might require more effort than just posting on social media, but the results will be worth it. So make those business cards, find your people, attend events, create collaborations, and practice that 30-second pitch. You’ve got this!

Pro Tip: Keep talking about your show. The more you share, the more people listen, and the more likely they are to recommend your podcast to others.

Here’s to making meaningful connections in the real world, one offline event at a time! If you have any questions or need extra help, check out my one-hour coaching session. Let’s get your podcast in front of more ears—starting offline.