How Harry Stebbings Achieved 100,000 Downloads Per Podcast Episode at Just 19
At only 19 years old, Harry Stebbings built a wildly successful podcast, “The 20 Minute VC,” reaching 100,000 downloads per episode. Here’s the behind-the-scenes strategy that made it happen:
1. Formulating a Unique Concept
Harry started with a simple yet effective idea: “The 20 Minute VC Podcast.”
- The concept focused on short, engaging interviews with prominent venture capitalists (VCs) and angel investors.
- The show’s format—concise and insightful—stood out in the crowded podcast market.
2. Testing Multiple Ideas
- He launched two podcasts initially:
- One aimed at angel investors.
- Another featuring prominent venture capitalists.
- After analyzing performance metrics, he scrapped the angel-focused podcast to double down on the VC format, which resonated more with his audience.
3. Crowd-Sourcing Feedback
Harry actively sought ways to improve his show by asking his audience:
- “What can I do to make my podcast better?”
- This direct engagement provided valuable insights and helped shape the podcast to meet listener expectations.
4. Leveraging Guest Networks
- After recording episodes with high-profile VCs, Harry encouraged them to share their interviews with their extensive personal networks.
- This tactic tapped into the guests’ established audiences, exponentially increasing the podcast’s reach.
5. Curating High-Quality Content
- Harry maintained a high standard by:
- Releasing only the best episodes—deleting content that wasn’t compelling or engaging.
- Continuously refining his interview process to ensure every episode added value to his listeners.
6. Personalized Introductions From Guests
- Guests recorded custom introductions for their interviews, creating a unique touch and helping to personalize the content.
- This strategy enhanced listener engagement and built a stronger connection with the audience.
The Results
Through a mix of strategic planning, audience engagement, and relentless focus on quality, Harry’s podcast achieved:
- 100,000 downloads per episode.
- A reputation as a must-listen podcast in the venture capital and startup space.
Key Takeaways for Aspiring Podcasters
- Start With a Unique Concept:
- A clear and focused idea can help you stand out in a crowded market.
- Test and Iterate:
- Experiment with different formats or topics and eliminate those that don’t resonate with your audience.
- Engage Your Audience:
- Ask for feedback and actively incorporate suggestions to build a loyal listener base.
- Leverage Guest Networks:
- Encourage guests to share episodes with their followers to expand your reach.
- Focus on Quality Over Quantity:
- Release only your best episodes to maintain high standards and keep listeners coming back.
Conclusion
Harry Stebbings’ journey from a 19-year-old aspiring podcaster to achieving 100,000 downloads per episode is a testament to the power of focus, feedback, and quality. Whether you’re a budding podcaster or a seasoned creator, there’s a lot to learn from his methodical and audience-first approach.
What’s your unique podcast idea? It might just be the next big thing!