By Bob Gatty
When I launched the Lean to the Left podcast seven years ago, I didn’t know the first thing about podcasting.
Now, nearly 850 episodes later, I’m still learning.
That’s why I invited podcasting expert Michelle Glogovac, known as “The Podcast Matchmaker,” to join me for a conversation about why podcasting has become one of the most powerful communications tools available today.
Michelle has built an impressive business helping authors, entrepreneurs, experts and thought leaders connect with podcast audiences. She’s also the host of multiple podcasts, including Read the Damn Book, Kitchen Briefs, and Beyond the Campaign, and author of How to Get on Podcasts.
Why Podcasts Matter
According to Michelle, podcasting continues to grow because audiences trust podcast hosts in ways they often don’t trust traditional media personalities.
“We are showing up every single week for our listeners,” she explained. “They know they can trust what we’re saying.”
That trust extends to guests as well. Listeners feel they get to know both hosts and guests on a personal level through long-form conversations, making podcasts uniquely effective at building relationships and credibility.
Anyone Can Start a Podcast
One of the most encouraging parts of our discussion was Michelle’s insistence that podcasting doesn’t require expensive equipment or a fancy studio.
She started recording from a closet using a simple microphone, headphones, a laptop and a TV tray. Today, she runs multiple successful shows, but says the basic requirements remain surprisingly affordable.
In fact, she estimates a new podcaster can launch and host a show for less than $100 per month.
From Selling Jet Fuel to Podcast Matchmaker
Michelle’s career path was anything but predictable.
For 18 years she worked selling jet fuel to corporate aviation clients before being laid off. Looking for a new direction that would allow her to spend more time with her family and make a meaningful difference, she discovered podcasts and quickly became fascinated by the industry.
What began as learning how podcasts worked evolved into a thriving podcast publicity business helping clients share their stories with audiences around the world.
The Secret Isn’t Selling
One of Michelle’s most valuable insights for business owners is that podcasting works best when it isn’t treated like a commercial.
Rather than constantly promoting products or services, she encourages hosts and guests to tell their stories.
Why did they start their business?
What challenges did they overcome?
What lessons did they learn?
Those stories create authentic connections that often lead to new customers and opportunities.
Building Community Through Content
Michelle’s newest project, Kitchen Briefs, may be her most innovative.
Filmed from her kitchen and typically lasting three minutes or less, the series combines news headlines with her personal commentary. The approach has resonated strongly with audiences, helping her Instagram following grow from fewer than 6,000 followers to more than 21,000 in just a few months.
It’s proof that authenticity and consistency often matter more than expensive production values.
Final Thoughts
Podcasting isn’t easy. It takes time, effort, consistency and commitment.
But as Michelle Glogovac makes clear, podcasting remains one of the most effective ways to build trust, establish expertise, and create meaningful relationships with audiences.
And in today’s noisy media environment, trust may be the most valuable asset of all.
Watch or listen to the full interview on Lean to the Left and learn how podcasting can help grow your business, your brand, and your influence.
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