Get Rich's pitch template:
https://mailchi.mp/f5fbb8d327b2/zsn-pitch-template-lead-mag
Get a breakdown of Rich’s podcast playbook in my free newsletter:
https://callummcdonnell.substack.com
Apply to work with me:
https://forms.gle/uw6NZDBHs2pQNYhbA
Rich Willan is the Head of Content at ZOE — a $100M+ health brand that built the #1 most shared podcast in the UK. In this episode, Rich reveals how to grow a podcast from zero to millions of downloads, how to create an effective editorial system, and what it takes to consistently make content that drives real business results.
We break down ZOE’s strategy across formats, why quality trumps virality, how they structure their workflow, and what founders and creators can learn from building a show like ZOE Science & Nutrition.
If you want to grow a podcast, run better interviews, or turn content into conversions — this episode is a masterclass.
Listen on Your Podcast Player:
https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/creatorplaybooks/
Follow Callum on socials:
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/thecallummc/
TikTok – https://www.tiktok.com/@heycallum
X – https://x.com/McdonnellCallum/
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/callummcdonnell/
Produced by 7xContent – make your own Podcast with us:
https://www.7xcontent.com/
Follow Rich:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/rich-willan-69764957
Timestamps:
00:42 – How ZOE built the most shared podcast in the UK
02:55 – How to grow a podcast without relying on virality
06:13 – The “content engine” behind ZOE’s success
09:01 – Structuring your show like a Netflix series
11:49 – Audience feedback, discovery, and listening data
15:37 – Planning content that builds real trust
18:24 – Why ZOE avoids TikTok and sticks to longform
21:03 – Their growth flywheel: consistency → trust → action
23:45 – Building a $100M brand through podcasting
27:20 – ZOE’s workflow: research, scripts & final edits
30:16 – The role of the host (and training for it)
34:07 – What makes a great guest vs a forgettable one
36:39 – How to structure a podcast team that scales
39:18 – What creators get wrong about “growth content”
41:59 – Rich’s best advice for creators, founders & content teams