Clocking In with Haylee Gaffin - Podcast about Podcasting for Podcasters

I’ve seen a lot of change in the podcasting industry over the last decade. For business owners especially, these changes have created greater opportunities for your podcast to support your business. In today’s episode, I’m sharing the most significant changes from the past decade, plus what it means for your podcast in 2026 and beyond. Clocking In with Haylee Gaffin is produced by Gaffin Creative, a podcast production company for creative entrepreneurs. Learn more about our services at Gaffincreative.com, plus you’ll also find resources, show notes, and more for the Clocking In Podcast.Find It Quickly: The gear and barrier to entry (2:48)From “content” to “asset” (7:05)Discovery has completely flipped (11:02)The rise of AI (14:29)What hasn’t changed (19:14)Mentioned in this Episode:Podcast Launch Kit: gaffincreative.com/podcast-launch-kitPodcasting for Business: gaffincreative.com/coachingPodcasting Gear List: gaffincreative.com/podcast-gear-list-for-clocking-in-with-haylee-gaffinEpisode 170: Why I’m Not Scared of AI as a Podcast Producer:  gaffincreative.com/170-why-im-not-scared-of-ai-as-a-podcast-producerEpisode 124: An Introduction to Private Podcasts: gaffincreative.com/124-an-introduction-to-private-podcastsConnect with Haylee:Soundboard Society: gaffincreative.com/soundboardInstagram: instagram.com/hayleegaffinWebsite: gaffincreative.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I don’t want to guess what you want from this show—I want to hear it directly from you. While attending the Empowered Podcasting Conference, I had a realization: I don’t actually know who all of you are. I might know the listeners who DM me on Instagram, respond to an episode, or regularly share feedback, but there are so many of you listening quietly behind the scenes. And if I’m going to make this show as useful and relevant as possible, I want to change that.So, I created a quick listener survey that should take about five minutes to complete. I want to know who you are, how you fit into the podcast industry, what you love about the show, what you’d like more (or less!) of, and which episodes have really stuck with you.Take the Survey: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScbfDpAbG9o8yZ53mm-gXSVDNzUvtZply2UGhfo2T_ddxmRlA/viewform?usp=headerReview the Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/6PdpRpc5xVU Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do you know if your podcast is actually helping your business? There are a handful of signs that tell me almost immediately whether a podcast is supporting the business behind it, or just simply existing as another task alongside it. In today’s episode, I’m sharing the 7 signs that your podcast is out of alignment with your business. Clocking In with Haylee Gaffin is produced by Gaffin Creative, a podcast production company for creative entrepreneurs. Learn more about our services at Gaffincreative.com, plus you’ll also find resources, show notes, and more for the Clocking In Podcast.Find It Quickly: Your podcast feels like another marketing task instead of an asset (1:28)Your episodes don’t support your current business goals (3:03)Someone could binge your show and still have no idea how to work with you (5:10)Your content attracts listeners, but not your ideal client (6:56)Your calls to action don’t match the journey you’re trying to create (8:14)You’re measuring success with the wrong scoreboard (9:16)You’re making podcast decisions before business decisions (11:04)Mentioned in this Episode:Podcasting for Business: gaffincreative.com/coachingConnect with Haylee:Instagram: instagram.com/hayleegaffinWebsite: gaffincreative.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's one thing to talk about what strategic podcast decisions look like in theory. It's another thing entirely to watch someone actually make them—and see the results play out in real numbers, real sponsorships, and a real business.That's exactly what happened with Ali Haney, host of the Brand & Market podcast and a Podcasting for Business alumna. Over the last year, Ali went from a podcast pulling in 25 to 30 downloads per episode to one that's landed a paying sponsor, far more than doubled its download average, and become a genuine lead generator for her business. This is a look at how she got there—and what it reveals about what strategic podcasting actually requires.Clocking In with Haylee Gaffin is produced by Gaffin Creative, a podcast production company for creative entrepreneurs. Learn more about our services at Gaffincreative.com, plus you’ll also find resources, show notes, and more for the Clocking In Podcast.Find It Quickly: Before the program (5:53)Making real connections with listeners (13:16)The impact of niching down and choosing her ideal audience (15:00)The value of entertaining, fun episodes (16:55)Rebuilding the content strategy (19:05)Podcast search optimization and keyword strategy (22:01)The first podcast sponsorship opportunity (26:31) Running podcast ADs (30:03)Ali’s biggest podcast challenge before and after the program (35:16)The biggest mindset shift (35:53)Ali’s proudest accomplishment (37:08)Mentioned in this Episode:Podcasting for Business: gaffincreative.com/coachingConnect with Ali:Website: brandandmarket.coInstagram: instagram.com/brandandmarket.coConnect with Haylee:Instagram: instagram.com/hayleegaffinWebsite: gaffincreative.comReview the Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/SdnQn6zH2Tj Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If your podcast disappeared tomorrow, would your business feel it? Or would it just be one less thing on your to-do list? That question gets at the heart of what separates a podcast that's content from a podcast that's a business asset. If your show isn't intentionally connected to how you attract, nurture, and convert your audience, it's not really functioning as part of your business—it's just something you're creating alongside it.This is a continuation of a bigger idea: your business strategy should drive your podcast, not the other way around. That's the philosophy. Join me in today's episode to hear all about the behind the scenes of podcasting for business. Our program for podcasters looking to leverage their show to drive more revenue in their business. Clocking In with Haylee Gaffin is produced by Gaffin Creative, a podcast production company for creative entrepreneurs. Learn more about our services at Gaffincreative.com, plus you’ll also find resources, show notes, and more for the Clocking In Podcast.Find It Quickly: It didn’t start with podcasting (3:06)The coaching conversations (4:24)Something starts to shift (6:11)The strategy became personal (7:40)The data told a bigger story (10:43)The transformation I was most excited about (12:27)It’s your turn (14:50)Mentioned in this Episode:Podcasting for Business: gaffincreative.com/coaching224: Your Business Strategy Should Be Driving Your Podcast—Not the Other Way Around: gaffincreative.com/224-your-business-strategy-should-be-driving-your-podcast-not-the-other-way-aroundConnect with Haylee:Instagram: instagram.com/hayleegaffinWebsite: gaffincreative.comReview the Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/qBYFQQXzg7e Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When was the last time you made a business decision before you made a podcast decision? In today’s episode, I’m talking about how your podcast should support your business - not the other way around. Plus, how I’ve seen clarity in business help my coaching clients make better decisions for their podcasts. Clocking In with Haylee Gaffin is produced by Gaffin Creative, a podcast production company for creative entrepreneurs. Learn more about our services at Gaffincreative.com, plus you’ll also find resources, show notes, and more for the Clocking In Podcast.Find It Quickly: What I’ve learned in the first official round of Podcasting for Business (3:22)The mistake I see most podcasters making (5:40)3 questions to help create aligned content (8:23)Why I’m sharing this now (9:58)Mentioned in this Episode:Podcasting for Business: gaffincreative.com/coachingConnect with Haylee:Instagram: instagram.com/hayleegaffinWebsite: gaffincreative.comTranscript: https://share.descript.com/view/RP5zipeApb6 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if the thing you're known for is actually limiting the impact you're meant to make? For a long time, I believed my business was about podcast production. And while podcasting will always be at the heart of what I do, I've realized something much bigger: I've never just been helping people launch podcasts—I've been helping them build authority.In this episode, I'm sharing the mindset shift that's been reshaping my business and why I've stopped thinking of podcasting as the destination. Instead, I now see it as one of the most powerful tools business owners can use to become more visible, more trusted, and more profitable.If you've ever felt boxed in by the reputation you've built or worried about evolving your messaging because people expect you to stay the same, this conversation is for you.In this episode, I share:Why being known for one thing can unintentionally limit your growth.The difference between the service you provide and the transformation you actually create.How to confidently evolve your business without abandoning the work that built your reputation.Whether you're a podcaster, coach, creative, or service provider, I hope this episode gives you permission to embrace the next season of your business with clarity and confidence.Clocking In with Haylee Gaffin is produced by Gaffin Creative, a podcast production company for creative entrepreneurs. Learn more about our services at Gaffincreative.com, plus you’ll also find resources, show notes, and more for the Clocking In Podcast.Find It Quickly: You know me as “the podcast expert” (0:56)When your professional identity changes (6:01)Growth doesn't mean abandoning what you're known for (7:54)Mentioned in this Episode:Podcasting for Business: gaffincreative.com/coachingConnect with Haylee:Instagram: instagram.com/hayleegaffinWebsite: gaffincreative.comReview the Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/27qYKFPPeDG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Do you still need to podcast when your business is at capacity? In today’s episode, I’m sharing why I think you should continue to podcast even when that is the case. Plus, why I’m still sitting down to record despite the fact that Gaffin Creative is currently operating on a waitlist.Clocking In with Haylee Gaffin is produced by Gaffin Creative, a podcast production company for creative entrepreneurs. Learn more about our services at Gaffincreative.com, plus you’ll also find resources, show notes, and more for the Clocking In Podcast.Find It Quickly: Your Podcast Is Bigger Than This Month's Revenue (5:03)Most of Your Listeners Are A Long-Term Investment (7:24)What You Should Create When You Don't Need More Clients (10:26)What This Season Has Taught Me (13:56)Your Podcast Is Building Future Relationships (19:38)Mentioned in this Episode:Podcasting for Business: gaffincreative.com/coachingConnect with Haylee:Instagram: instagram.com/hayleegaffinWebsite: gaffincreative.comReview the Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/xdLzej6NrMe Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Do you think you could make the same impact in a five-minute podcast episode that you could in a 20-minute one? So many podcasters equate longer episodes with more value. But in today’s episode, I’m sharing how you can make an impact in just five minutes. Clocking In with Haylee Gaffin is produced by Gaffin Creative, a podcast production company for creative entrepreneurs. Learn more about our services at Gaffincreative.com, plus you’ll also find resources, show notes, and more for the Clocking In Podcast.Find It Quickly: What are summer shorties? (2:20)A few ways to structure them (3:03)Your summer shorties challenge (4:44)Mentioned in this Episode:Holistic Marketing Simplified with Molly Cahill: Summer Shorts: mollycahill.com/71-optimizing-your-instagram-bioConnect with Haylee:Soundboard Society: gaffincreative.com/soundboardInstagram: instagram.com/hayleegaffinWebsite: gaffincreative.comReview the transcript: share.descript.com/view/OVORgS1CbJz Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if I told you that one of the smartest things you can do for your podcast is publish less? I know, that sounds completely backwards. But in today’s episode, I’m sharing why it might just be the thing that helps your podcast. Plus, I’m sharing something that I think every podcaster needs a little more of… permission. Clocking In with Haylee Gaffin is produced by Gaffin Creative, a podcast production company for creative entrepreneurs. Learn more about our services at Gaffincreative.com, plus you’ll also find resources, show notes, and more for the Clocking In Podcast.Find It Quickly: You have permission to take a break (2:24)You have permission to publish less often (5:03)You have permission to repeat yourself (6:38)You have permission to change your format (9:13)You have permission to build your podcast around your life (10:28)The secret to a sustainable podcast (12:43)One final permission slip (15:38)Connect with Haylee:Soundboard Society: gaffincreative.com/soundboardInstagram: instagram.com/hayleegaffinWebsite: gaffincreative.comReview the Transcript: share.descript.com/view/UWAFMKI7x0M Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A podcast is truly one of the most powerful business tools available. In today’s episode, I’m featuring my client Colie James and the Business-First Creatives Podcast, with an episode that dives into exactly how significant a podcast can be. Colie chats with marketing expert Polly Pollock about how podcasts and other types of long-form content are key to creating deep connections and driving real business growth. This episode originally aired on episode 302 of the Business-First Creatives Podcast. Today's episode is brought to you by Mic Check Society, our community for podcasters who are looking to take their podcast from good to great. Come join us for educational trainings, a private member's only community, and monthly calls! Get $10 off per month with code PODCAST at micchecksociety.com. Clocking In with Haylee Gaffin is produced by Gaffin Creative, a podcast production company for creative entrepreneurs. Learn more about our services at Gaffincreative.com, plus you’ll also find resources, show notes, and more for the Clocking In Podcast.Mentioned in This Episode:Business-First Creatives Episode 302 with Polly Pollock: coliejames.com/your-marketing-isnt-converting-because-its-missing-one-on-one-connection-with-polly-pollock/Business-First Creatives: coliejames.com/podcastColie James on Instagram: instagram.com/coliejames Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I'm a little late to celebrating 5 years of Clocking In, so in honor of 5 years, I’m sharing 5 things I wish more podcasters knew in 2026. These are the lessons I find myself repeating over and over again in client calls, podcast audits, strategy sessions, and other conversations with podcasters. And they might make a difference for your podcasting in 2026!Clocking In with Haylee Gaffin is produced by Gaffin Creative, a podcast production company for creative entrepreneurs. Learn more about our services at Gaffincreative.com, plus you’ll also find resources, show notes, and more for the Clocking In Podcast.Find It Quickly: Stop building your podcast like someone else’s (1:36)There are very few universal rules in podcasting (5:00)Your guest interviews are only as good as your preparation (7:16)Nobody cares about your download numbers as much as you do (10:43)Stop stepping on your guest’s words (12:36)Mentioned in this Episode:Custom GPT: http://gaffincreative.com/guestresearchConnect with Haylee:Soundboard Society: gaffincreative.com/soundboardInstagram: instagram.com/hayleegaffinWebsite: gaffincreative.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is video actually necessary for podcasting in 2026? In today’s episode, I’m sharing my answer to that question, and it might surprise you. Because simply turning on a camera isn’t a growth strategy. Clocking In with Haylee Gaffin is produced by Gaffin Creative, a podcast production company for creative entrepreneurs. Learn more about our services at Gaffincreative.com, plus you’ll also find resources, show notes, and more for the Clocking In Podcast.Find It Quickly: Video isn’t the strategy, it’s the format (1:11)Podcasting and YouTubing are not the same thing (2:15)The rise of video podcasting (4:22)The real cost of video (5:10)If you’re going to do YouTube, consider Shorts (8:38)You don’t need full video production to benefit from video (9:33)Is video necessary for podcasting in 2026? (11:42)Defining a podcast (12:37)Permission to podcast your way (14:47)Mentioned in this Episode:What Is a Podcast? Podcast Industry Taskforce Forms to Determine Definition and More: hollywoodreporter.com/business/digital/podcast-industry-taskforce-formsConnect with Haylee:Soundboard Society: gaffincreative.com/soundboardInstagram: instagram.com/hayleegaffinWebsite: gaffincreative.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is your podcast aligned with your business goals? In today’s episode, I’m giving you a preview of my Podcasting For Business Private Podcast. Listen in on the first episode of this private series and learn why it is so important to intentionally integrate your podcast into your business ecosystem. Download the Private Podcast: gaffincreative.com/privatepodJoin the Waitlist for Podcasting for Business Program: gaffincreative.com/coachingClocking In with Haylee Gaffin is produced by Gaffin Creative, a podcast production company for creative entrepreneurs. Learn more about our services at Gaffincreative.com, plus you’ll also find resources, show notes, and more for the Clocking In Podcast.Find It Quickly: Your podcast should live within your business ecosystem (3:00)Podcasts create trust and connection differently (4:01)Your podcast and business should have the same goals (5:43)Mentioned in this Episode:Podcasting for Business Private Podcast: gaffincreative.com/privatepodPodcasting for Business: gaffincreative.com/coachingConnect with Haylee:Soundboard Society: gaffincreative.com/soundboardInstagram: instagram.com/hayleegaffinWebsite: gaffincreative.comReview the Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/F5UNmoVA8QK Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What makes someone keep listening to a podcast? In today’s episode, I’m talking about how podcasters can create deeper connections with their listeners. Because if you’re using your podcast to grow your business, gaining the trust of your listeners truly matters. Clocking In with Haylee Gaffin is produced by Gaffin Creative, a podcast production company for creative entrepreneurs. Learn more about our services at Gaffincreative.com, plus you’ll also find resources, show notes, and more for the Clocking In Podcast.Find It Quickly: Trust is built in small moments (1:48)The podcasts that people keep listening to feel clear (5:07)Information alone is not enough anymore (7:00)The best podcasts create momentum (9:29)Why this matters for business owners (11:56)Mentioned in this Episode:Podcasting for Business: gaffincreative.com/coachingConnect with Haylee:Soundboard Society: gaffincreative.com/soundboardInstagram: instagram.com/hayleegaffinWebsite: gaffincreative.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if your podcast doesn’t actually need more episodes — it needs more intentionality? In today’s episode, I’m talking about one of the biggest mistakes I see podcasters making when it comes to business growth. So many creators are publishing incredible content consistently, yet they’re still struggling to generate clients, visibility, authority, or revenue from their show. And honestly, I think it’s because most podcast advice is still far too focused on downloads alone.I’m sharing why intentional strategy matters so much more than simply creating more content and how podcasters can start treating their show like a true business asset instead of another marketing task. I’m also pulling back the curtain on my new eight-week coaching program, Podcasting for Business, and exactly how we help podcasters connect the dots between their content and their business goals.In this episode, I cover:Why consistency alone is not enough for podcast growthThe role intentionality plays in business-focused podcastingHow strategic positioning can increase discoverability and authorityIf your podcast feels disconnected from your business growth, this episode will help you rethink the way you approach your show entirely.Find It Quickly: The secret to achieving real business growth from your podcast (2:02)What we focus on in Podcasting for Business (3:53)The first run of Podcasting for Business (6:21)Growth does not come from more episodes (8:21)Mentioned in this Episode:Podcasting for Business: gaffincreative.com/coachingPrivate podcast series: gaffincreative.com/privatepodAli Haney’s Brand and Market Podcast: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-brand-market-podcastConnect with Haylee:Podcasting for Business: gaffincreative.com/coachingInstagram: instagram.com/hayleegaffinWebsite: gaffincreative.comReview the Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/GobXjmY4Gfz Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Your podcast is capable of so much more than simply publishing weekly episodes. In today’s episode, I’m sharing why I believe so many business owners are dramatically underestimating the role their podcast can play in growing their brand, building trust, and generating long-term opportunities. If your podcast currently feels like “just another marketing task,” this conversation is going to completely shift the way you think about your show.I’m talking about the difference between simply creating content and intentionally building a platform that supports your entire business ecosystem. Because your podcast can become your authority builder, networking engine, lead nurturer, and long-term business asset—but only if you start approaching it strategically.In this episode, I cover:Why podcast downloads are not the only measure of successThe hidden ROI most podcasters fail to trackHow to position your podcast as a true business growth toolIf you’ve been feeling disconnected from your podcast or wondering how to make it work harder for your business, this episode is for you.Clocking In with Haylee Gaffin is produced by Gaffin Creative, a podcast production company for creative entrepreneurs. Learn more about our services at Gaffincreative.com, plus you’ll also find resources, show notes, and more for the Clocking In Podcast.Find It Quickly: Caught in another marketing task (1:07)The long-term impact of your podcast (3:29)The most valuable ROI does not show up in your analytics (5:22)Strategically implementing your podcast into your business (7:53)The future of podcasting for business owners (10:02)Mentioned in this Episode:Podcasting for Business Group Program: gaffincreative.com/coachingConnect with Haylee:Coaching: gaffincreative.com/coachingInstagram: instagram.com/hayleegaffinWebsite: gaffincreative.comReview the Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/ClJ0VlN0Yy0 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Should you hire help, or just keep doing all the work for your podcast yourself? This episode is part of a small finance series, and today I’m talking all about outsourcing. Why even if you can handle the work yourself, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you should. Clocking In with Haylee Gaffin is produced by Gaffin Creative, a podcast production company for creative entrepreneurs. Learn more about our services at Gaffincreative.com, plus you’ll also find resources, show notes, and more for the Clocking In Podcast.Find It Quickly: The DIY phase is normal (1:14)The real reason people hesitate to hire (2:36)Buying back your time (4:22)The difference between production and strategy (5:58)When it might be time to hire (7:22)The reframe (8:22)Connect with Haylee:Instagram: instagram.com/hayleegaffinWebsite: gaffincreative.comTranscript: https://share.descript.com/view/w5HOD1ZajG4 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Have you ever opened your bank account and immediately felt your stomach drop? Today’s episode is part two in the small finances series, and I’m talking all about business finances. I’m talking about what it’s like to see the money come in, and then immediately go back out. And it’s not that the money is just disappearing; it’s being invested and making an impact. Clocking In with Haylee Gaffin is produced by Gaffin Creative, a podcast production company for creative entrepreneurs. Learn more about our services at Gaffincreative.com, plus you’ll also find resources, show notes, and more for the Clocking In Podcast.Find It Quickly: The emotional reality of paying people (1:04)Paying yourself consistently (4:15)Reframing “spending money” (8:32)What consistency creates (11:59)The responsibility of ownership (13:43)Connect with Haylee:Instagram: instagram.com/hayleegaffinWebsite: gaffincreative.comTranscript: https://share.descript.com/view/sYnyO1JODF4 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you’re running a business and still swiping your debit card for everything, you might be leaving serious benefits on the table—and I know because I did it for years. In this episode, I’m kicking off a brand-new finance series by breaking down how I use business credit cards as a strategic tool—not for debt, but for smarter spending, better cash flow visibility, and real rewards that actually support my life and business.I’m walking you through exactly how I think about credit cards, the specific cards I’ve used, why I upgraded, and how I’ve earned over $1,500 in travel just from business expenses I was already making.Key Takeaways:Why a business credit card should be a benefits tool—not a financing toolHow to turn everyday business expenses into travel rewards and perksThe exact strategy I use to separate business spending from personal rewards Clocking In with Haylee Gaffin is produced by Gaffin Creative, a podcast production company for creative entrepreneurs. Learn more about our services at Gaffincreative.com, plus you’ll also find resources, show notes, and more for the Clocking In Podcast.Find It Quickly: Credit card responsibility and reminders (2:52)My business credit card timeline (5:34)The first business card: Capital One Spark (6:41)What actually goes on my business card (8:41)Why I eventually upgraded my card (9:46)Why I chose the Venture X Business card (13:16)Key benefits of the Venture X Business card (15:20)How I actually use my points (17:55)Important reminder about credit cards (20:05)Mentioned in this Episode:Capital One Venture X or Spark Business Card Referral: i.capitalone.com/JBrXMOh4VCapital One Venture X Personal Card Referral Link: i.capitalone.com/Jf35yyJyXEpisode 152 What My Year Of Investing In My Business Looked LIke: gaffincreative.com/152-what-my-year-of-investing-in-my-business-looked-like196: How I Invested in My Podcast Agency in 2025: gaffincreative.com/196-how-i-invested-in-my-podcast-agency-in-2025Connect with Haylee:Soundboard Society: gaffincreative.com/soundboardInstagram: instagram.com/hayleegaffinWebsite: gaffincreative.comTranscript: https://share.descript.com/view/977wqALzQmi Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.