Send us feedback/questions via TextTo we talk about the power of RSS (and is it diminishing)? Is Organic search (word of mouth) dead? and the importance of backing things up.Send us feedback/questions via TextSponsors:PodcastBranding.co - They see you before they hear youBasedonastruestorypodcast.com - Comparing Hollywood with History?Video Version (unedited)Mentioned In This EpisodeSchool of Podcastinghttps://www.schoolofpodcasting.com/joinPodpagehttp://www.trypodpage.comHome Gadget Geekshttp://www.theaverageguy.tvPodcast Hot SeatFeatured Supporter: Chris at Castahead.netEquipment MentionedHollyland Lark M2 Wireless SystemRode Wireless MicroShure MV88 Usb-CZoom Podtrak P4 Portable RecorderFeatured Supporter Chris StoneCast Ahead has carved a niche in the podcasting industry by providing full-spectrum podcast production services tailored to each client’s unique needs See castahead.net Podcast Hot SeatGrow your podcast audience with Podcast Hot Seat. We help you do more of what is working, and fine tune those things that need polished. In addition to the podcast audit, you get a FREE MONTH at the School of Podcasting (including more coaching). Check it out at https://www.podcasthotseat.com/storeYour Audience Will Thank You! Leave Your QuestionGo to

Send us feedback/questions via TextTo we talk about Dave needing another montitor (and no Jim doesn't have a problem using 11 monitors) along with plugins to make things sound better, using switchy for link shortening, and some plugins to clean up audio. Send us feedback/questions via TextToday Jim is back and we are looking at 2026 and what podcasters may be considering to improve their show. Sponsors:PodcastBranding.co - They see you before they hear youBasedonastruestorypodcast.com - Comparing Hollywood with History?Video Version (unedited)Mentioned In This EpisodeSchool of Podcastinghttps://www.schoolofpodcasting.com/joinPodpagehttp://www.trypodpage.comHome Gadget Geekshttp://www.theaverageguy.tvPodcast Hot SeatWhispr Flow Talk to Text ToolSwitchy link shrtnerText ExapanderCaptivate Media HostingBuzzsprout Media HostingAuphonic audio clean up toolAccentize PluginsClear - Reverb Clean up From Supertone.Wave plugins like Scheps Omni Channel, Vocal RideriDrive online back

Send us feedback/questions via TextToday Jim is back and we are looking at 2026 and what podcasters may be considering to improve their show. Sponsors:PodcastBranding.co - They see you before they hear youBasedonastruestorypodcast.com - Comparing Hollywood with History?Video Version (unedited)Mentioned In This EpisodeSchool of Podcastinghttps://www.schoolofpodcasting.com/joinPodpagehttp://www.trypodpage.comHome Gadget Geekshttp://www.theaverageguy.tvPodcast Hot SeatWhispr Flow Talk to Text ToolAuphonic - Sound Leveling and MoreMagai - AI Suite of ToolsCastmagic - AI Transcripts and Show NotesBuzzsprout - Media HostingCaptivate - Media HostingAI Goes to College ShowLive Well and FlourishFeatured Supporter Chris StoneCast Ahead has carved a niche in the podcasting industry by providing full-spectrum podcast production services tailored to each client’s unique needs See castahead.net Podcast Hot SeatGrow your podcast audience with Podcast Hot Seat. We help you do more of what is working, and fine tune those things that need polished. In addition to the podcast audit, you get a FREE MONTH at the School of Podcasting (including more coaching). Check it out at https://www.podcast

Send us feedback/questions via TextWelcome to another episode of Ask the Podcast Coach! I’m Dave Jackson from School of Podcasting, joined by podcasting legend Rob Greenlee from the New Media Show. In today’s episode, we dive into a ton of topics ranging from the definition of a podcast to AI-generated content, and industry trends. Sponsors:PodcastBranding.co - They see you before they hear youBasedonastruestorypodcast.com - Comparing Hollywood with History?Video Version (unedited)Mentioned In This EpisodeSchool of Podcastinghttps://www.schoolofpodcasting.com/joinPodpagehttp://www.trypodpage.comNew Media Showhttps://www.newmediashow.comPodcaster Hall of Famehttps://www.podcasthof.comPod SEOhttps://www.podseo.com (use coupon schoolofpodcasting )Answer Socrateshttps://answersocrates.com?via=sopAnswer the Publichttps://www.answerthepublic.comFeatured Supporter Chris StoneCast Ahead has carved a niche in the podcasting industry by providing full-spectrum podcast production services tailored to each client’s unique needs See castahead.net Podcast Hot SeatGrow your podcast audience with Podcast Hot Seat. We help you do more of what is working, and fine tune those things that need polished. In addition to the podcast audit, you get a FREE MONTH at the School of Podcasting (including more coaching). Check it out at https://www.podcasthotseat.com/storeYour Audience Will Thank You!

Send us feedback/questions via TextOn this episode, I was joined as always by Jim Collison, and we had the pleasure of welcoming Ralph Estep from AskRalph.com—the Content Creators' Accountant—to dive into recent changes in how the IRS handles tips for content creators. Ralph walked us through the new law allowing up to $25,000 in tip income (like Super Chats, Buy Me a Coffee, etc.) to be excluded from income taxes in 2025, provided you track it properly. We talked about the importance of keeping tip income separate from memberships or other payments where the customer receives something tangible or access in exchange.We also took questions and comments from our live chat about accounting software, prepping for taxes, and even how certain types of Patreon support could possibly qualify as tax-free tip income under this new law (with a big emphasis on always consulting your own accountant!). Whether you’re using Super Chats, Patreon, or other support methods, this tax year might look a little different.Sponsors:PodcastBranding.co - They see you before they hear youBasedonastruestorypodcast.com - Comparing Hollywood with History?Video Version (unedited)Mentioned In This EpisodeSchool of Podcastinghttps://www.schoolofpodcasting.com/joinPodpagehttp://www.trypodpage.comHome Gadget Geekshttps://www.homegadgetgeeks.comContent Creator's Accountanthttps://www.contentcreatorsaccountant.com/Podcaster Hall of Famehttps://www.podcasthof.comFeatured Supporter Chris StoneCast Ahead has carved a niche in the podcasting industry by providing full-spectrum podcast production services tailored to each client’s unique needs See castahead.net Podcast Hot Seat

Send us feedback/questions via TextWelcome to this holiday edition of Ask the Podcast Coach! I’m Dave Jackson, flying solo with special guest Chris Stone from Castahead.net. In this lively episode, we kick things off debating the most overplayed Christmas songs (sorry, Mariah Carey!), slide into podcast mic setups—covering everything from phantom power to Cloudlifters and USB/XLR combos—and share our biggest podcast merch mistakes. Sponsors:PodcastBranding.co - They see you before they hear youBasedonastruestorypodcast.com - Comparing Hollywood with History?Video Version (unedited)Mentioned In This EpisodeSchool of Podcastinghttps://www.schoolofpodcasting.com/joinPodpagehttp://www.trypodpage.comChris' Podcast ProductionCastahaed.netDealcastershttps://www.podpage.com/dealcastersHome Gadget Geekshttps://www.homegadgegeeks.comPodmatch Guesting Toolhttps://supportthisshow.com/podmatchFourth Wall Merchhttps://supportthisshow.com/fourthwallPodcast Hot Seat (Podcast Audits)https://www.podcasthotseat.comFeatured Supporter Chris StoneCast Ahead has carved a niche in the podcasting industry by providing full-spectrum podcast production services tailored to each client’s unique needs See castahead.net Podcast Hot SeatGrow your podcast audience with Podcast Hot Seat. We help you do more of what is working, and fine tune those things that need polished. In addition to the podcast audit, you get a FREE MONTH at the School of Podcasting (including more coaching). Che

Send us feedback/questions via TextWelcome to this week’s episode of Ask the Podcast Coach! I’m Dave Jackson, and I’m excited to be joined by my good friend Jim Collison as we kick back after Thanksgiving and dig into everything from surviving power outages as a podcaster to getting serious about connecting with your audience. We’ll swap stories from behind the mic, share practical tips for managing your listeners, debate the best batteries for your gear, and tackle questions about websites, live show feedback, and the ever-changing world of podcast tech. Let’s get into it!Sponsors:PodcastBranding.co - They see you before they hear youBasedonastruestorypodcast.com - Comparing Hollywood with History?Video Version (unedited)Mentioned In This EpisodeSchool of Podcastinghttps://www.schoolofpodcasting.com/joinPodpagehttp://www.trypodpage.comHome Gadget Geekshttps://www.homegadgegeeks.comKit Email List Toolhttps://partners.kit.com/wcqdcqy9cu40Substack Email Platformhttps://substack.com/refer/davejacksonAweber Email List Toolhttps://podcastcoach.aweber.com/Beehiv Email List Toolhttps://www.beehiiv.com/?via=Dave-JacksonPabbly Automation Toolhttps://supportthisshow.com/pabblyZapierhttps://zapier.com/ElfSight (Faq and other Scripts)https://supportthisshow.com/elfsightRSS.com Media Hostinghttps://supportthisshow.com/rssdotcomCaptivate Media Hostinghttps://supportthisshow.com/captivateBuzzsprout Media Hosting

Send us feedback/questions via TextIn this episode of Ask the Podcast Coach, Dave Jackson and Jim Collison dive into the evolving world of podcasting where authenticity wrestles against the growing pressures of monetization and consolidation. Are podcasts losing their unique spirit and turning into just another version of radio? Dave and Jim reflect on the rise of dynamic ads, syndication, and free hosting, dissect the pitfalls of “following the money,” and urge podcasters to stay true to their voices.They also share hard-earned insights on:The realities of switching hosting platforms and how to avoid common trapsBuilding and engaging a supportive communityMotivation and consistency tips during slow growth phasesSmart file management and backup strategiesHow to handle listener feedback, sponsorships, and measuring podcast success beyond downloadsSponsors:PodcastBranding.co - They see you before they hear youBasedonastruestorypodcast.com - Comparing Hollywood with History?Video Version (unedited)Mentioned In This EpisodeSchool of Podcastinghttps://www.schoolofpodcasting.com/joinPodpagehttp://www.trypodpage.comHome Gadget Geekshttps://www.homegadgegeeks.comOther Websites MentionedRalph Estep's New Showhttps://www.contentcreatorscontent.comJodi Kranglehttps://voiceoversandvocals.com/Riverside - Remote Recorder, Editor, and Hosting(?)This content may contain affiliate links, meaning I earn a small commission if you purchase through these links at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products or services I trust and believe will provide value to you. Thank you for your support!Featured Supporter Chris StoneCast Ahead has carved a niche in the podcasting industry by providi

Send us feedback/questions via TextFirst up, I share some behind-the-scenes updates, including my recent move from a lifetime video hosting deal that went south to Voomly, and how AI tools like ChatGPT are helping me generate show notes and summaries more efficiently. We also discuss the mysterious rise of EM dashes in AI-generated writing—did anyone use them before AI took over our grammar?We talk about what’s happening at Libsyn, including some big changes in leadership and strategy, and my insider thoughts about their direction and features (or lack thereof). If you’re as confused about Descript’s new billing system as I am, you’re not alone! We chat about the challenges podcasters are facing as media hosts race to add features and AI tools—sometimes at the expense of clarity or affordability.Our special guest, Ray Arnott from Around the Layout, comes on to ask how to best encourage guests to promote their episodes. Jim and I brainstorm practical ways to make it easier for your guests—everything from pre-written social posts to follow-up routines and even link tracking so you know who your real MVPs are.Sponsors:PodcastBranding.co - They see you before they hear youBasedonastruestorypodcast.com - Comparing Hollywood with History?Video VersionMentioned In This EpisodeSchool of Podcastinghttps://www.schoolofpodcasting.com/joinPodpagehttp://www.trypodpage.comHome Gadget Geekshttps://www.homegadgegeeks.comOther Websites MentionedVoomly - Video HostingDescriptBuzzsproutCaptivateLibsynRiverside

Send us feedback/questions via TextEver wonder if daily podcasting helps or hurts? We break down how to use November-style challenges to build reps without burning yourself out, and why the best consistency is consistently delivering value. From there, we get real about “reality” podcasts: celebrity banter can skate by on fame, but most shows need a promise listeners can feel—make them laugh, teach them something, or save them time. If your friends love hanging out, great. If strangers stick around, you’ve got a show.We also dive deep into AI as a workflow multiplier. Show notes, chapters, and summaries can be generated in seconds, but they’re drafts you must refine. We share practical prompts, why FAQs boost discoverability, and the non-negotiable habit of checking links AI invents. Then we zoom out into platform hygiene: remove dead Google Podcasts links, test your contact form, and make your subscribe page obvious. Quiet fixes compound growth.Sponsors:PodcastBranding.co - They see you before they hear youBasedonastruestorypodcast.com - Comparing Hollywood with History?Video VersionMentioned In This EpisodeSchool of Podcastinghttps://www.schoolofpodcasting.com/joinPodpagehttp://www.trypodpage.comHome Gadget Geekshttps://www.homegadgegeeks.comOther Websites MentionedPod Indy (Podcasting Event)URL: podindy.comCDN – Bunny.net (for self-hosting media files)URL: bunny.netPodcast stats – OP3URL: op3.devPOD Chapters (Daniel’s chaptering tool)URL: podchapters.comBible Bites (Randy Black’s podcast)URL: bible-bytes.comShooting It Straight (Randy Black’s

Send us feedback/questions via TextWhat happens when your listener’s device can generate a personalized podcast on command—your voice, their preferences, zero friction? We dig into a bold forecast from Joe Pulizzi and use it as a springboard to map what creators must do now to stay essential. The headline: you have time, but not to waste. The next three years will reward human connection, not just output.We break down why live shows build a moat AI can’t cross: people show up to participate, not just consume. That interaction turns casual listeners into community, and community into staying power. We also get real about costs. AI features rarely come free; they come with higher monthly bills and massive energy needs. From new data centers to rising rates, we unpack how an “AI bubble” could reshape tools and pricing—and why consolidation doesn’t mean the end, just a different landscape.Sponsors:PodcastBranding.co - They see you before they hear youBasedonastruestorypodcast.com - Comparing Hollywood with History?Video VersionMentioned In This EpisodeSchool of Podcastinghttps://www.schoolofpodcasting.com/joinPodpagehttp://www.trypodpage.comHome Gadget Geekshttps://www.homegadgegeeks.comConent Inc Episodehttps://www.contentinc.io/hey-content-creators-our-three-year-window-is-here-518/Podcast Clotheswww.podcastclothes.comAI Goes to Collegewww.aigoestocollege.comLive Well and Flourishwww.livewellandflourish.comBecome and Awesome Supp

Send us feedback/questions via TextThe feed isn’t “social” anymore—it’s an endless parade of AI-recommended video. So why are we still hoping a 30-second short will magically convert strangers into hour-long listeners? We pull back the curtain on what the platforms actually reward, why shorts are best used for brand awareness, and the specific moves that help listeners cross the bridge to your long-form show.We talk about the algorithm reality—how little time people spend with actual friends on major platforms—and what that means for podcasters betting on reels to drive growth. From hooks that stop the scroll to chapters that make episodes navigable, we break down a conversion path that respects your audience’s time. We also dig into platform control and fragmentation, from Spotify pushing video to Netflix to creators leaving YouTube, and why owning your domain and a simple “/follow” page reduces friction across the board.Sponsors:PodcastBranding.co - They see you before they hear youBasedonastruestorypodcast.com - Comparing Hollywood with History?Video VersionMentioned In This EpisodeSchool of Podcastinghttps://www.schoolofpodcasting.com/joinPodpagehttp://www.trypodpage.comHome Gadget Geekshttps://www.homegadgegeeks.comNo Agenda Showhttps://www.noagendashow.net/listen/1808Podcast Hot SeatGrow your podcast audience with Podcast Hot Seat. We help you do more of what is working, and fine tune those things that need polished. In addition to the podcast audit, you get a FREE MONTH at the School of Podcasting (including more coaching). Check it out at https://www.podcasthotseat.com/storeYour Audience Will Thank You!Featured Supporter Chris StoneCast Ahead has carved a niche in the podcas

Send us feedback/questions via TextWhat happens when AI gets good enough to sit in the co-host chair—but not good enough to replace a heartbeat? We dig into the real trade-offs behind AI in podcasting, from research assistants and auto-summaries to voice cloning, live translation, and whether anyone actually wants a synthetic sidekick. The conversation is honest and a little contrarian: yes, the tools are powerful and getting better by the week; no, they can’t carry the weight of human curiosity, risk-taking, and the messy surprises that make a show worth hearing.We also tackle the question so many podcasters ask at the 200‑episode mark: should I quit? The answer starts with purpose, not downloads. If your show brings in clients, sharpens your thinking, and gives your current audience real value, that’s success. If burnout is the real problem, take a strategic break or switch to seasons—use themes for deep research, group similar content for discovery, and protect your energy without ghosting your listeners. On the flip side, there’s a strong case for consistency: when you occupy a loyal spot in someone’s weekly routine, missing a release can invite another show onto their “first string.” Choose the path that fits your goals, then communicate it clearly.Sponsors:PodcastBranding.co - They see you before they hear youBasedonastruestorypodcast.com - Comparing Hollywood with History?Video VersionMentioned In This EpisodeSchool of Podcastinghttps://www.schoolofpodcasting.com/joinPodpagehttp://www.trypodpage.comHome Gadget Geekshttps://www.homegadgegeeks.comFeatured Supporter Chris StoneCast Ahead has carved a niche in the podcasting industry by providing full-spectrum podcast production services tailored to each client’s unique needs See castahead.net Podcast Hot SeatGrow your podca

Send us feedback/questions via TextEver feel like your show is stuck at 30 downloads and your guests won’t share your episode? We’ve been there, and we’re putting it all on the table—how language choices affect your brand and reach, why “big name” guests almost never translate to listener growth, and how to structure improv so it lands without a live audience. We get honest about impostor syndrome, burnout, and the moment you realize your strategy isn’t working. Then we walk through practical fixes: crafting episode promises that stop the scroll, building segments that deliver clear payoffs, and setting up chapters so listeners can jump straight to what matters.We also tackle the messy stuff most shows avoid. If a co‑host keeps low-talking under you, the solution isn’t a new mic—it’s leadership. Hear how to set expectations, give actionable feedback, and make the hard call when behavior doesn’t change. On the tools front, we compare quick-win clip workflows, where AI show notes actually help (FAQs, key takeaways), and why you still need a human ear before you publish. We touch on platform realities—feed limits, chapter support, and the way explicit tags can nuke discoverability in certain markets—so your distribution doesn’t quietly work against you.Sponsors:PodcastBranding.co - They see you before they hear youBasedonastruestorypodcast.com - Comparing Hollywood with History?Video VersionMentioned In This EpisodeSchool of Podcastinghttps://www.schoolofpodcasting.com/joinPodpagehttp://www.trypodpage.comHome Gadget Geekshttps://www.homegadgegeeks.comFeatured Supporter Chris StoneCast Ahead has carved a niche in the podcasting industry by providing full-spectrum podcast production services tailored to each client’s unique needs See castahead.net Podcast Hot Seat

Send us feedback/questions via TextDave Jackson flies solo this week (with special guest appearances from Randy Black and Ralph Estep Jr.) to tackle this challenging question and more. Randy shares a heart-wrenching story about losing his podcast co-host and friend, reminding us of the human connections that make this medium so powerful. His emotional recounting serves as a poignant reminder that beyond analytics and strategies, podcasting creates meaningful relationships that transcend the microphone.The conversation takes a practical turn when Ralph joins to break down the differences between LLC and sole proprietorship structures for podcasters. His expertise reveals that proper business structuring can save significant money on self-employment taxes while providing liability protection—with benefits potentially kicking in at just $8,000 of annual podcast income.A cautionary tale emerges about platform dependence when Dave shares the story of a podcaster who lost 168 episodes overnight when Spotify deleted their entire catalog over a single music-related terms of service violation. The lesson? Always back up your content and understand platform policies before it's too late.Sponsors:PodcastBranding.co - They see you before they hear youBasedonastruestorypodcast.com - Comparing Hollywood with History?Video VersionMentioned In This EpisodeSchool of Podcastinghttps://www.schoolofpodcasting.com/joinPodpagehttp://www.trypodpage.comHome Gadget Geekshttps://www.homegadgegeeks.comFeatured Supporter Chris StoneCast Ahead has carved a niche in the podcasting industry by providing full-spectrum podcast production services tailored to each client’s unique needs See castahead.net Podcast Hot SeatGrow your podcast audience with Podcast Hot Seat. We help you do more of what

Send us feedback/questions via TextHow do you find guests when your podcast covers extremely niche topics? It's a challenge many creators face, especially when starting out. Dave Jackson and Jim Cullison tackle this question head-on, providing practical strategies that go beyond the standard advice. Rather than endless online searching, they suggest going directly to where your potential guests gather, leveraging existing connections, and most importantly, asking current guests for recommendations.The episode takes a heartfelt turn as the hosts pay tribute to podcasting pioneer Todd Cochran, founder of Blubrry, who recently passed away. Todd's unwavering commitment to open RSS, transparent business practices, and advocacy for podcasters has left an indelible mark on the industry. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, Dave and Jim highlight how Todd's principled approach to business and genuine care for the podcasting community set a standard that continues to influence the medium today.Sponsors:PodcastBranding.co - They see you before they hear youBasedonastruestorypodcast.com - Comparing Hollywood with History?Video VersionMentioned In This EpisodeSchool of Podcastinghttps://www.schoolofpodcasting.com/joinPodpagehttp://www.trypodpage.comHome Gadget Geekshttps://www.homegadgegeeks.comFeatured Supporter Chris StoneCast Ahead has carved a niche in the podcasting industry by providing full-spectrum podcast production services tailored to each client’s unique needs See castahead.net Podcast Hot SeatGrow your podcast audience with Podcast Hot Seat. We help you do more of what is working, and fine tune those things that need polished. In addition to the podcast audit, you get a FREE MONTH at the School of Podcasting (including more coaching). Check

Send us feedback/questions via TextThe boundaries between legal protection and audience engagement blur when we confront one of podcasting's persistent questions: do you need release forms from your guests? This episode dives deep into this conundrum, revealing why adding friction to your listener experience might actually sabotage your growth efforts.Sponsors:PodcastBranding.co - They see you before they hear youBasedonastruestorypodcast.com - Comparing Hollywood with History?Video VersionMentioned In This EpisodeSchool of Podcastinghttps://www.schoolofpodcasting.com/joinPodpagehttp://www.trypodpage.comHome Gadget Geekshttps://www.homegadgegeeks.comFeatured Supporter Chris StoneCast Ahead has carved a niche in the podcasting industry by providing full-spectrum podcast production services tailored to each client’s unique needs See castahead.net Podcast Hot SeatGrow your podcast audience with Podcast Hot Seat. We help you do more of what is working, and fine tune those things that need polished. In addition to the podcast audit, you get a FREE MONTH at the School of Podcasting (including more coaching). Check it out at https://www.podcasthotseat.com/storeYour Audience Will Thank You! Leave Your QuestionGo to askthepodcastcoach.com/voicemail and leave your message to be answered on the next show.Support the showBE AWESOME!Thanks for listening to the show. Help the show continue to exist and get a shout-out on the show by becoming an awesome supporter by going to askthepodcastcoach.com

Send us feedback/questions via TextEver wondered what's lurking in your podcast stats? This week, we tackle a mysterious surge in ThinkBot downloads that has creators scratching their heads. When this web crawler suddenly outpaces even Apple Podcasts in your analytics, it's time to investigate—and we'll walk you through exactly what to do when bots inflate your numbers.For Android users struggling to find their perfect podcast companion, we compare the top apps with Pocket Casts emerging as our favorite for its seamless cross-device synchronization. Whether you're listening on your phone, tablet, or desktop, we explain how to create the most satisfying listening experience without getting lost between devices.Sponsors:PodcastBranding.co - They see you before they hear youBasedonastruestorypodcast.com - Comparing Hollywood with History?Video VersionMentioned In This EpisodeSchool of Podcastinghttps://www.schoolofpodcasting.com/joinPodpagehttp://www.trypodpage.comHome Gadget Geekshttps://www.homegadgegeeks.comEmpowered Podcast Conferencehttps://www.empoweredpodcasting.com/Keep the Flame Alive https://www.flamealivepod.comBlubrry Hostinghttps://supportthisshow.com/blubrryCaptivate Hostinghttps://supportthisshow.com/captivateBuzzsprouthttps://supportthisshow.com/buzzsproutPodhome Hostinghttps://www.podhome.fm/Context Rot Articlehttps://aigoestocollege.substack.com/p/context-rot-from-notebooklmAI Goes to Collegehttps://www.aigoestocollege.comFeatured Support

Send us feedback/questions via TextIn today's show Dave is back from Podcast Movement 2025 in Dallas and shares some of the things he saw. We are joined by Marty and get an inside scoop of podcasting blind.Sponsors:PodcastBranding.co - They see you before they hear youBasedonastruestorypodcast.com - Comparing Hollywood with History?Video VersionMentioned In This EpisodeSchool of Podcastinghttps://www.schoolofpodcasting.com/joinPodpagehttp://www.trypodpage.comHome Gadget Geekshttps://www.homegadgegeeks.comTuulie AI Toolshttps://tuulie.com/Empowered Podcast Conferencehttps://www.empoweredpodcasting.com/Featured Supporter Chris StoneCast Ahead has carved a niche in the podcasting industry by providing full-spectrum podcast production services tailored to each client’s unique needs See castahead.net Podcast Hot SeatGrow your podcast audience with Podcast Hot Seat. We help you do more of what is working, and fine tune those things that need polished. In addition to the podcast audit, you get a FREE MONTH at the School of Podcasting (including more coaching). Check it out at https://www.podcasthotseat.com/storeYour Audience Will Thank You! Leave Your QuestionGo to askthepodcastcoach.com/voicemail and leave your message to be answered on the next show.Support the showBE AWESOME!Thanks for listening to the show. Help the show continue to exist and get a shout-out on the show by becoming an awesome supporter by going to

Send us feedback/questions via TextWhat truly builds podcast audiences - authentic connections or inflated metrics? This episode explores the fascinating contrast between Taylor Swift's approach to audience building and questionable industry practices like buying fake downloads.When Taylor Swift recently proclaimed "I'm in the business of human emotion" on a podcast, she revealed the secret behind her massive success - creating genuine connections with fans through carefully crafted experiences. Meanwhile, a Hollywood Reporter article exposes how some podcasters resort to purchasing downloads and subscribers, revealing a fundamental misunderstanding of sustainable audience growth. Dave and Jim unpack this revealing contrast and why emotional connection always trumps numerical shortcuts.Sponsors:PodcastBranding.co - They see you before they hear youBasedonastruestorypodcast.com - Comparing Hollywood with History?Video VersionMentioned In This EpisodeSchool of Podcastinghttps://www.schoolofpodcasting.com/joinPodpagehttp://www.trypodpage.comHome Gadget Geekshttps://www.homegadgegeeks.com00:00 Introduction and Greetings00:35 Technical Difficulties and Recording Tips01:30 Sponsorship Shoutouts03:58 Podcasting Tips and Listener Questions07:04 YouTube Channel Strategies13:26 Taylor Swift and Podcasting Insights14:55 Advertising and Monetization in Podcasting33:50 Promotional Strategies and Awards41:02 Podcast Cruise Ship Deals41:27 Freebies and Perks for Podcasters44:03 Mark Maron's Podcast Retirement47:20 Scripted vs. Bullet Points in Podcasting52:58 Monetizing Your Podcast Audience59:13 Networking at Podcast Events01:09:16 Engaging with Your Audience01:13:54 Wrapping Up and Upcoming EventsFeat