What works for one podcast may not work for another podcast because their audiences are different. Think of the two female singers, Adele and Pink. The are both authentic, talented singers. One tends to stand on stage, tell stories, and perform in a dress. The other does gymnastics that include floating around the entire outside stadium. Could you see Adele flying around a stadium?  Instead, know your "WHY" and your "WHO" so you can figure out your WHAT and deliver it authentically in a way that doesn't bore your audience.  Plus, we'll tackle the ever-elusive topic of measuring success. I'll reveal the strategies and tools I use to track traffic and engagement and the importance of creating engaging content that keeps listeners coming back for more. Tools To Use To Help You Identify What Works With Your Podcast Instead of just linking to your website, you can add UTM parameters (this isn't as geeky as it sounds). A UTM is Urchin Traffic Monitor (we really don't care). These parameters can be thought of as leaving a breadcrumb so that when you check Google Analytics you can see where the audience specially came from. I'm currently using Fathom Stats, which are not free but are easier to read and a bit more privacy-focused. Add UTMs to a Link using the Google UTM Creator the Google Analytics Campaign URL Builder for generating URLs to websites the Google Play URL Builder for generating URLs to apps on the Google Play Store the iOS Campaign Tracking URL Builder for generating URLs to apps on the Apple App Store There are parameters you can add that will be seen in your Google Analytics. I have been using Fathom stats as they are easier to understand (it's not free, but I prefer checking out my stats without the frustration of digging through Google Analytics).  Why I Like Switchy Switchy is a tool that is currently available for a lifetime deal on App Summo. Not only does this create easy-to-remember links like www.supportthisshow.com/q2u (which is my affiliate link for the Samson Q2U microphone), but it creates trackable QR codes, and the ability to set UTM parameters and save them as a template.  When You Can See What Works, You Can QUit Doing Those Actions That Don't For a while I was putting videos on twitch (primarily known for gaming) and I just didn't any reaction (so I quit wasting my time for now).  I have videos and screenshots at www.schoolofpodcasting.com/896 Join the School of Podcasting Community Risk-Free Are you looking to start your own podcast but don't know where to begin? Look no further than the School of Podcasting. Our comprehensive online courses and one-on-one coaching will teach you everything you need to know, from equipment and editing to marketing and monetization. With our proven methods and unlimited one-on-one consulting, you'll be creating high-quality, engaging content in no time. Say goodbye to the frustration and uncertainty and hello to a successful podcasting career with the School of Podcasting. Use the coupon code schoolofpodcasting.com/listener to save on a monthly or yearly subscription. Live appearances? I look forward to seeing you all, please come up and say hi. To see my full itinerary, go to schoolofpodcasting.com/where QUESTION OF THE MONTH Each month I ask you to chime in on the show so we all can learn together. Be sure to tell use about your show, and mention your website. Leave Your Answer at  www.schoolofpodcasting.com/question   Mentioned In This Episode Join the School of Podcasting Community Profit From Your Podcast Book Power of Podcasting Network Dave's YouTube Channel Dave's Podcasting Newsletter Buy Dave a Coffee Put Dave In Your Pocket Where Will Dave Be? Question of the Month Bitly Google Analytics Switchy Fathom Website Stats