From Zero to Badass: Building a Standout Show From Scratch with Cristy O’Connor & Aggie Chydzinski

Have you ever wondered what it takes to build a podcast from the ground up and make it a standout success? 

Today, we’re getting to the heart of podcast creation with Cristy O’Connor & Aggie Chydzinski, the brilliant minds behind the “Badass Women in Business” podcast. They started just like you might be now — with a vision and a lot of questions, yet they navigated the exciting and challenging path from a blank slate to a dynamic show that stands out in the crowded podcasting landscape. 

If you’re curious about what it takes to make a podcast pop or just love a good behind-the-scenes story, this episode is for you! Tune in for practical tips and insights on building and growing a podcast from the ground up.

In this episode:

[00:53] How Cristy and Aggie’s friendship turned into a powerful podcast partnership.

[03:20] Cristy and Aggie share their journey of diving into the world of podcasting with no prior experience but a strong belief in the power of storytelling. 

[04:11] Cristy and Aggie reveal their first steps to launch their podcast — why they decided to outsource production and how it helped them focus on what they do best. 

[07:15] Cristy and Aggie’s strategy for setting clear expectations and preparing their guests for recordings. 

[08:34] How Cristy and Aggie’s preference for fluid, unscripted conversations leads to more authentic and dynamic interviews. 

[09:32] Aggie reflects on their podcast “launch” experience, including how they overcame the initial challenges of being overly prepared and transitioned to a more relaxed and effective interview style. 

[10:55] How Cristy and Aggie scaled their podcast by bringing on a full-time podcasting expert, moving from Squadcast to Riverside, and their exciting plans to dive into video content and launch a YouTube channel. 

[11:43] Cristy and Aggie explore the benefits of their unscripted interview style.

[15:57] Cristy and Aggie reflect on their early struggles with promotion and how they refined their approach to effectively reach their audience. 

[17:19] Cristy and Aggie explain the PR process.

[18:52] Cristy and Aggie discuss how providing friendly reminders to their guests before recording has been instrumental in addressing distracting habits during interviews. 

[20:44] What Cristy and Aggie love the most about their podcast and the deep fulfillment it brings them. 

About Cristy O’Connor 

Cristy O’Connor, a strategist renowned for blending analytical brilliance with a keen understanding of the human element in business, co-hosts the “Badass Women in Business” podcast. Her career is a testament to transformative leadership, turning around businesses by revitalizing teams and aligning profit with people’s growth and satisfaction. Cristy’s method transcends conventional benchmarks, valuing strong, cohesive teams as the cornerstone of surpassing business objectives. Her exceptional skills in strategic planning and operational excellence, coupled with a profound grasp of company culture and staff retention, highlight her distinct approach. Partnering with Cristy on the podcast, listeners gain not just a business advisor but a life mentor, as she champions the integration of profit and purpose, fostering enduring relationships that go beyond the professional realm.

About Aggie Chydzinski

Aggie Chydzinski, a beacon for entrepreneurial success and sustainable business growth, co-hosts the “Badass Women in Business” podcast. With over 18 years of experience, Aggie has mastered the art of scaling businesses to their peak, focusing on ventures that harmonize profit with purpose. Her expertise shines in advising Women-Owned, LGBTQ+ Owned, and BIPOC Owned businesses. At Cultivate Advisors, Aggie tailors strategies to each company’s unique needs, emphasizing sustainable growth and team well-being. Beyond her advisory role, she engages audiences as a respected podcast host and Techstars Business Coach, delving into crucial entrepreneurial themes like leadership, diversity, and the intricate dance between business and human experience. Aggie’s holistic approach not only aims for financial growth but also nurtures the core values and well-being of teams, making her an essential guide for businesses pursuing impactful success.

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