The Pod Mastermind FAQs

1-What is The Pod Mastermind Group?

We are a small group of podcasting peers that share similar interests and goals. We meet on a regular basis to discuss issues or problems that members are facing,  brainstorm solutions, and support each other.

If you join, you will surrounded yourself with like-minded people who understand your mission that will encourage and help you to pursue your goals.

2-How will I benefit?

As a member of a mastermind, you tap into the wisdom of a group of podcasters/entrepreneurs. You will be exposed to different perspectives, and draw on diverse skills and experiences. You get insights, advice, support, shorten your learning curve, set goals, solve problems, and are held accountable.  You benefit by gaining clarity of focus, getting inspired, and making better decisions.

3-How is a Mastermind Group Different from Group Coaching?

A mastermind group is about the members supporting and sharing with each other. They share their advice, problem-solving, and feedback. A true mastermind is really about each member addressing their problem and the rest of the group brainstorming solutions, setting goals and keeping each other accountable. The facilitator is there to keep the meeting on track and the conversation flowing between all members.

Group coaching is centered around a coach. The coach will work with one or two individuals and their issues, while the others listen.  However, the issues raised may not be relevant to others in the group, but they don’t get personal help.

4-What’s the purpose of the group?

The purpose of The Pod Mastermind Group is to bring together a small group of like-minded people, podcasters, entrepreneurs, solopreneurs, freelancers, bloggers, and small business owners who are starting a podcast or already started one. The goal is for the members to help each other overcome problems and obstacles and grow and monetize their podcast faster. Some people aren’t even looking to monetize, they are focused on growth. Either way, the Mastermind Group is here to help you achieve your goals.

5-Who should join the group?

• You want to get your podcast up and running
• You want to grow both professionally and personally
• You want to brainstorm creative solutions with your peers
• You want to be held accountable and reach bigger goals
• You want to monetize and reach your goals
• You want to be supported and are willing to be supportive to the other members too
• You want to break out of your box and reach new levels of success
• You can commit to attending and participating in the meetings

Who should not join?

•  You already have a successful podcast and already monetized at a level you’re comfortable with
•  You don’t want to commit the time and energy to achieve greater goals
•  You can’t give support nor want to receive support from others in the group
•  You can’t commit to attending the meetings
• You work better by yourself
• You already have a group of people who give you all the support you need
  
• You are not willings to change, grow, or explore new situations

6-What happens during meetings?

The meeting starts with everyone in the group sharing a success they had since the last meeting. Then, if the group wants, there may be a short education segment to discuss a topic of interest. We then have a “Hot Seat” portion of the meeting which takes the bulk of the time. We end with everyone setting a goal to accomplish before the next meeting.

7-What is a “Hot Seat”?

A hot seat is where you get the opportunity to address your question or problem to the group. You’re forced to gain clarity about what you are asking, so you can explain it. The rest of the members brainstorm to help provide solutions. You will find that you’ll get more ideas and insights than you can generate on your own.

Generally hot seats should be part of every meeting, and all members should rotate through the hot seat at least once a quarter.

8-Do I Have to Participate in the “Hot Seat”?

The “hot seat” is the essence of the mastermind group. It’s where you get your problems addressed and everyone contributes to the discussion to help you. You don’t want to miss out on this important benefit. This is one of the main reasons people come to a mastermind.

Some people feel shy or introverted or they worry they may not have an idea to contribute. But the groups are small and the facilitator puts everyone at ease. You’ll be surprised how much everyone can learn from you, too.

Everyone gets a chance to speak in turn, this is not a free for all. The facilitator gives equal weight to everyone. Many times you will have an idea to contribute, but if not, you’re not required to.

9-What do we talk about in the meeting?

Every mastermind group has a theme. The Pod Mastermind Group is for people who are just starting a podcast or need help with an already established one.  The topics usually deal with getting a podcast started, marketing, advertising, pricing ads, services you provide, managing, and outsourcing. We talk about whatever issues members are struggling with and want to discuss. The group works to brainstorm a solution.

10-Where do your groups meet?

The Pod Mastermind Group meets online via video conference and by teleconference.

11-How often and for how long do you meet?

Our current group meets every other Tuesday at 9pm EST for 1 hour (sometimes we go over). Depending on the growth, we can create other Masterming groups at other times. We keep the groups small. 1o members or less.

12-What commitment do you expect from me?

Commit to participate in all meetings, show up on time, participate in the “hot seat”,  offer help to others when you have something to give, listen fully, and ask clarifying questions when needed.

13-What if I miss a meeting?

It is important to attend all meetings. However, when vacations and emergencies occur, please notify the facilitator in advance.

The meetings are recorded, so you can review what was discussed later.

14-How many people are in the group?

The ideal number is between 6 and 10, but we do start with fewer members and grow as we get interested in people who fit with the other members.

15-Who is in the group? Who is the ideal member?

The ideal member is someone who are just starting a podcast or need help with an already established one and is looking to grow both professionally and personally. The preferred podcast is a business, real estate, investing, professional service, or tech related.

16-Are there rules for the group?

Yes, there are guidelines which we request each member agree to. However, there are some rules which are sacred.

Respect all other members, their problems and their point of view. No member is put-down or embarrassed. Controversial topics, such as politics, religion or sex are not discussed.

17-What about confidentiality?

Confidentiality is taken seriously. For a successful mastermind meeting, members have to know that what they say stays within the group. Therefore, every member is asked to sign a non-disclosure agreement.

18-Are meetings recorded?

Yes, each meeting is recorded and available for members to watch.

19-Who are the facilitators, or will we be working with a different facilitator in our group?

You will be working with Mike Cavaggioni and Phil Better. We can split up facilitators as needed and have another one ready to go if we need to create more groups.

20-How will I measure my progress with the group?

In a member’s initial meeting, they will set their long term and 90 day goals. At each meeting, you tell the group what you’ve accomplished since the last meeting, where you’re stuck, and what’s your next action/goal for the next meeting.

21-What does it cost?

The monthly fee is $250 or $600 for three months. They are subscriptions and you can cancel any time.

22-Do you have a payment plan?

We do not. However, if needed, we can split the monthly payment into two payments if $125. Contact your facilitator.

23-How do I apply or register for the group?

You can apply to be a member of The Pod Mastermind group by filling out our application on our home page here. 

We will be in touch with you after reviewing your application on whether we’ll be a good fit.