Big Podcast Daily - The Sausage Factory

Dive deep into the art of podcasting with David Hooper of Big Podcast as he delivers potent insights on improving content quality, leveraging college radio's legacy, and mastering Spotify for audience growth ...

Topics covered in this episode:​

• Maximizing podcast impact
• Importance of college radio (and what podcasters can learn from it)
• Effective podcasting strategies
• Content creation and attention to detail
• Emphasizing audience needs in production
• Leveraging Spotify's audience reach
• Podcast growth and monetization

Episode Timestamps:​

• 00:00 70 million copies sold.
• 05:55 "Tape" used to be acetate, now it's digital
• 09:43 College radio launched careers—today we do this with podcasting
• 14:15 Authenticity on and off the microphone matters.
• 19:05 Be selective, your content may have other uses.
• 22:28 Man loses, learns, rebuilds, and repeats
• 24:06 Listener attention is more valuable than awards.
• 28:46 Upcoming episodes, subscribe now!

The Newsletter for Podcasters

• Big Podcast Insider - Weekly Podcasting Newsletter ​

This episode of Build a Big Podcast is brought to you by Riverside ...​

Riverside is online recording software that makes it easy for podcasters to record studio-quality interviews from anywhere. Try it free and, if you like it, get 15% off any membership plan when you use the code BIGPODCAST.​​

About this episode of Build a Big Podcast:​

This is the audio companion to Issue 167 of Big Podcast Insider. If you're interested in more info on what I talk about on this episode and also links, that's where to go. On this episode, I dive into where the money is made in podcasting. how to get more reviews (and subscribers) for your podcast, podcast hosting, and more.   ​

Big Podcast Insider is a weekly newsletter on podcasting. If you like the content of this episode, you can subscribe here – it's free and you can unsubscribe at any time with a single click.​

Want more help growing your podcast audience?

• Big Podcast Daily - Daily Podcasting Tips
• Big Podcast AMP (Audio Monetization Program)

In this episode of Build a Big Podcast, host David Hooper discusses the importance of letting moments breathe and allowing guests to share their story without interruption, drawing parallels to a Super Bowl play-by-play debacle.

Topics covered in this episode:​

• Super Bowl analysis: Discussion of the final play and the importance of letting moments breathe in broadcast media.
• The importance of letting guests speak: Advice on how to avoid talking over guests and giving them the space to express themselves.
• How to minimize filler words and embrace comfortable silence when facilitating interviews.
• The impact of editing: Insights into the role of editing in crafting a storytelling experience for the audience.
• The importance of experienced broadcasters and the potential implications of hijacking moments during live events.

The Newsletter for Podcasters

• Big Podcast Insider - Weekly Podcasting Newsletter ​

Want more help growing your podcast audience?

• Big Podcast Daily - Daily Podcasting Tips
• Big Podcast AMP (Audio Monetization Program)

Thoughts on growing your podcast audience, turning your audio podcast into promo videos, fear of public speaking, and more ...

Topics covered in this episode:​

• Your podcast in my new book on podcasting
• Overcoming fear of speaking and improving public speaking skills
• Automated podcast mastering to enhance audio quality
• Generating ideas and inspiration for podcast creation
• Transforming audio podcasts into promotional videos
• Addressing the issue of flooding the market with low-quality content
• Tools and resources for podcast management and content creation

Episode Timestamps:​

• 04:27 Newsletter showcases ways to grow podcasts effectively.
• 07:07 When a panic attack happens on stage ...
• 12:09 Feeling pressure when speaking or podcasting?
• 16:10 Podcasting inconsistency can be solved.
• 17:38 Finding and nurturing ideas.
• 20:02 A ban on podcasting? No ... this is a joke.

The Newsletter for Podcasters

• Big Podcast Insider - Weekly Podcasting Newsletter ​

This episode of Build a Big Podcast is brought to you by Riverside ...​

Riverside is online recording software that makes it easy for podcasters to record studio-quality interviews from anywhere. Try it free and, if you like it, get 15% off any membership plan when you use the code BIGPODCAST.​​

About this episode of Build a Big Podcast:​

This is the audio companion to Issue 166 of Big Podcast Insider. If you're interested in more info on what I talk about on this episode and also links, that's where to go. On this episode, I dive into where the money is made in podcasting. how to get more reviews (and subscribers) for your podcast, podcast hosting, and more.   ​

Big Podcast Insider is a weekly newsletter on podcasting. If you like the content of this episode, you can subscribe here – it's free and you can unsubscribe at any time with a single click.​

Want more help growing your podcast audience?

• Big Podcast Daily - Daily Podcasting Tips
• Big Podcast AMP (Audio Monetization Program)

Topics covered in this episode:​

• Optimizing your LinkedIn profile
• Types of influencers and trust
• Overcoming the fear of failure
• Modifying equipment for podcasting
• The importance of recording and documenting podcast content
• Snowed in (and podcasting)
• Counterfeit microphones

Episode Timestamps:​

• 00:00 Tips for podcasting success 
• 03:22 Why Dan Miller was one of my first radio guests ...
• 06:47 Boost podcast revenue with Big Podcast AMP
• 11:58 52% trust online and in-store brand advice.
• 14:02 Deep engagement with audience
• 17:22 Zoom F3: 32-bit float recorder with amazing quality.
• 22:20 Countfeit microphones
• 23:53 Access to high-quality, royalty-free music.

The Newsletter for Podcasters

• Big Podcast Insider - Weekly Podcasting Newsletter ​

This episode of Build a Big Podcast is brought to you by Riverside ...​

Riverside is online recording software that makes it easy for podcasters to record studio-quality interviews from anywhere. Try it free and, if you like it, get 15% off any membership plan when you use the code BIGPODCAST.​​

About this episode of Build a Big Podcast:​

This is the audio companion to Issue 165 of Big Podcast Insider. If you're interested in more info on what I talk about on this episode and also links, that's where to go. On this episode, I dive into where the money is made in podcasting. how to get more reviews (and subscribers) for your podcast, podcast hosting, and more.   ​

Big Podcast Insider is a weekly newsletter on podcasting. If you like the content of this episode, you can subscribe here – it's free and you can unsubscribe at any time with a single click.​

Want more help growing your podcast audience?

• Big Podcast Daily - Daily Podcasting Tips
• Big Podcast AMP (Audio Monetization Program)

Topics covered in this episode:​

• Quick and dirty podcasting success
• Uploading audio-first podcast to YouTube with RSS feeds
• Length of podcasts and attention spans
• How to tell better stories on your podcast
• A 2-minute burnout checkup for podcasters
• Transforming gut feelings into words
• Burnout in podcasting

Episode Timestamps:​

• 00:00 Ways to grow your podcast and monetize
• 04:47 Advice columnists and marketing characters
• 12:39 2-minute burnout checkup: recognizing exhaustion, cynicism, disassociation.
• 16:47 Get the tape!
• 17:44 Expressing unspoken truths can be powerful.

The Newsletter for Podcasters

• Big Podcast Insider - Weekly Podcasting Newsletter ​

This episode of Build a Big Podcast is brought to you by Riverside ...​

Riverside is online recording software that makes it easy for podcasters to record studio-quality interviews from anywhere. Try it free and, if you like it, get 15% off any membership plan when you use the code BIGPODCAST.​​

About this episode of Build a Big Podcast:​

This is the audio companion to Issue 164 of Big Podcast Insider. If you're interested in more info on what I talk about on this episode and also links, that's where to go. On this episode, I dive into where the money is made in podcasting. how to get more reviews (and subscribers) for your podcast, podcast hosting, and more.   ​

Big Podcast Insider is a weekly newsletter on podcasting. If you like the content of this episode, you can subscribe here – it's free and you can unsubscribe at any time with a single click.​

Want more help growing your podcast audience?

• Big Podcast Daily - Daily Podcasting Tips
• Big Podcast AMP (Audio Monetization Program)

I've learned a lot about writing and communication from Mignon Fogarty (sometimes known as Grammar Girl), but also a lot about the business of podcast networks. In this episode we talk about both.

Mignon is the founder of the Quick and Dirty Tips network and creator of Grammar Girl, which has been named one of Writer's Digest's 101 best websites for writers multiple times. She is also an inductee in the Podcasting Hall of Fame.

She's a pioneer in the field of podcasting, recognizing its potential as a platform for independent journalism and storytelling. Her insightful interviews and informative content have made her a trusted source of information for her audience. With a background in linguistics and a passion for clear communication, she's become a leading voice in the world of podcasting, demonstrating the power of media in the digital age.

In this episode, I talk with Mignon about:​

• Success with Grammar Girl and her commitment to meeting podcast deadlines
• Her "Quick and Dirty" podcasting network
• Her use of a friendly cartoon character as Grammar Girl's avatar to make grammar more approachable and the importance of maintaining a personal connection with her audience
• The impact of speech styles on written content and the nuances of audio in podcasting in the age of advanced AI technology
• The challenges of content quality, fact-checking, and speed in podcasting without traditional journalistic filters
• Her career transition from writing and grammar to podcasting, facilitated by an experience with repetitive injury and dictation, and her subsequent success partnering with Macmillan Publishing

Episode Timestamps:​

• 00:00 "The Grammar Daily"
• 03:32 Anyone can now gather and share news.
• 06:52 Podcast deadlines are always strictly met ... at least for Grammar Girl
• 13:03 How a repetitive injury helped Mignon's podcast hosting
• 13:53 A partner for the "Quick and Dirty" podcasting network.
• 19:03 The Grammar Girl artwork and caricature.
• 20:22 Importance of forming personal connections in AI era
• 24:45 Why you need to promote your work after finishing it
• 28:23 PhD dropout becomes chair of media entrepreneurship ...
• 33:04 Detailed legal contracts 
• 35:04 The "original format" scripted shows continue
• 37:41 Privacy and making videos
• 42:23 Diversity in podcast (and other content) distribution
• 44:44 The NPR host who ignored me
• 46:49 Subscribe now to never miss an episode

Want More?  

Big Podcast Insider is a weekly newsletter on podcasting. If you like the content of this episode, you can subscribe here – it's free and you can unsubscribe at any time with a single click.​ 

And if you want even more ... check out the daily newsletter, Big Podcast Daily.

Topics covered in this episode:​

• Dealing with the stress and challenges of podcasting, including burnout, creative expansion, and overcoming the pressure for overnight success.
• The importance and power of local content in podcasting, including successful connections with a local audience and sponsorships.
• The role of luck and slow-burn foundation in the success of podcasting, books, content, YouTube, and live events.
• Strategies for creating a positive environment for oneself and others to produce good podcast content.
• Insights on dealing with difficult individuals in the entertainment industry and the impact of talent versus behavior.
• The challenges faced by a successful media company owner in retaining a younger audience.
• The benefits and success of targeting a local audience in podcasting and building dedicated communities.

Episode Timestamps:​

• 00:00 Podcast burnout and tools for growth.
• 07:06 Avoid stress and negative people for success.
• 07:51 Talent isn't everything in the entertainment industry.
• 13:49 Real estate agents excited about local podcasting.
• 14:08 Specialized content attracts desired listeners, avoiding "waste."
• 17:30 Parasocial relationships can happen to you.
• 22:05 Ways to overcome podcast/creator burnout.
• 25:29 Chewbacca Mom ... now what?
• 27:51 Free podcast growth toolkit, personalized coaching available.

The Newsletter for Podcasters

• Big Podcast Insider - Weekly Podcasting Newsletter ​

This episode of Build a Big Podcast is brought to you by Riverside ...​

Riverside is online recording software that makes it easy for podcasters to record studio-quality interviews from anywhere. Try it free and, if you like it, get 15% off any membership plan when you use the code BIGPODCAST.​​

About this episode of Build a Big Podcast:​

This is the audio companion to Issue 163 of Big Podcast Insider. If you're interested in more info on what I talk about on this episode and also links, that's where to go. On this episode, I dive into where the money is made in podcasting. how to get more reviews (and subscribers) for your podcast, podcast hosting, and more.   ​

Big Podcast Insider is a weekly newsletter on podcasting. If you like the content of this episode, you can subscribe here – it's free and you can unsubscribe at any time with a single click.​

Want more help growing your podcast audience?

• Big Podcast Daily - Daily Podcasting Tips
• Big Podcast AMP (Audio Monetization Program)

Topics covered in this episode:​

• New Year's resolutions and sustainability in podcasting
• Embracing mistakes and learning from experiences in podcasting
• Podcasting lessons from fashion icon Andre Leon Talley
• Tools and resources for podcasters
• Podcast growth and monetization
• The importance of diverse perspectives and inclusivity in decision-making positions
• Email management tips and the addictive nature of email communication

Episode Timestamps:​

• 00:00 A confession.
• 04:06 Oops!!
• 07:31 Fashion isn't everything
• 09:52 Empowering underprivileged communities to drive real change
• 16:12 Email overload and a loss of brainpower
• 18:56 Gmail tools and tips 
• 22:23 Tips for better interviews and audience surveys
• 26:06 Upcoming interview with Jim Collison, co-host of Ask the Podcast Coach
• 26:37 Royalty-free music

The Newsletter for Podcasters

• Big Podcast Insider - Weekly Podcasting Newsletter ​

This episode of Build a Big Podcast is brought to you by Riverside ...​

Riverside is online recording software that makes it easy for podcasters to record studio-quality interviews from anywhere. Try it free and, if you like it, get 15% off any membership plan when you use the code BIGPODCAST.​​

About this episode of Build a Big Podcast:​

This is the audio companion to Issue 162 of Big Podcast Insider. If you're interested in more info on what I talk about on this episode and also links, that's where to go. On this episode, I dive into where the money is made in podcasting. how to get more reviews (and subscribers) for your podcast, podcast hosting, and more.   ​

Big Podcast Insider is a weekly newsletter on podcasting. If you like the content of this episode, you can subscribe here – it's free and you can unsubscribe at any time with a single click.​

Want more help growing your podcast audience?

• Big Podcast Daily - Daily Podcasting Tips
• Big Podcast AMP (Audio Monetization Program)

Topics covered in this episode:​

• The significance of the New Year and the need for a fresh start for you and your podcast
• The importance of setting clear expectations for guests and creating a guest confirmation page for interviews
• The concept of "a month in a day" to efficiently manage tasks and get things done before the year ends
• The benefits of transparency when interviewing sources and setting clear boundaries for interviews
• Strategies for committing to new projects for a specific duration to assess their feasibility and make adjustments
• Tools and methods for automating podcast outlines, episode notes, and summaries for improved efficiency
• The Big Podcast AMP (Audience Monetization Program) for personal coaching to grow your podcast audience, increase engagement, and monetize your podcast

Episode Timestamps:​

04:01 Improvement is gradual; celebrate small victories.

07:39 Challenges in podcasting?

10:38 Clarifying expectations, boundaries, and process when doing interviews

12:47 Why guests are often intimidated by you

18:00 Automated podcast outlines for only $29

21:25 Automated podcast transcription

The Newsletter for Podcasters

• Big Podcast Insider - Weekly Podcasting Newsletter ​

This episode of Build a Big Podcast is brought to you by Riverside ...​

Riverside is online recording software that makes it easy for podcasters to record studio-quality interviews from anywhere. Try it free and, if you like it, get 15% off any membership plan when you use the code BIGPODCAST.​​

About this episode of Build a Big Podcast:​

This is the audio companion to Issue 161 of Big Podcast Insider. If you're interested in more info on what I talk about on this episode and also links, that's where to go. On this episode, I dive into where the money is made in podcasting. how to get more reviews (and subscribers) for your podcast, podcast hosting, and more.   ​

Big Podcast Insider is a weekly newsletter on podcasting. If you like the content of this episode, you can subscribe here – it's free and you can unsubscribe at any time with a single click.​

Want more help growing your podcast audience?

• Big Podcast Daily - Daily Podcasting Tips
• Big Podcast AMP (Audio Monetization Program)

Topics covered in this episode:​

• How to never miss an interview
• How an end-of-year survey can improve your podcasting strategy (and questions to ask your audience)
• Tips for pronouncing names correctly
• A checklist to catch audio problems in podcast interviews
• Transcribe your podcast with AI
• Considerations for purchasing podcast equipment (and its impact on success)

Episode Timestamps:​

04:38 Coordinating interviews

07:57 Improving your podcast with essential listener questions.

09:57 Why do people listen to your podcast?

13:22 NPR checklist helps prevent audio interview issues.

19:42 New equipment doesn't guarantee podcast success.

20:16 Shure SM58: A popular, durable, and reliable $99 microphone.

The Newsletter for Podcasters

• Big Podcast Insider - Weekly Podcasting Newsletter ​

This episode of Build a Big Podcast is brought to you by Riverside ...​

Riverside is online recording software that makes it easy for podcasters to record studio-quality interviews from anywhere. Try it free and, if you like it, get 15% off any membership plan when you use the code BIGPODCAST.​​

About this episode of Build a Big Podcast:​

This is the audio companion to Issue 159 of Big Podcast Insider. If you're interested in more info on what I talk about on this episode and also links, that's where to go. On this episode, I dive into where the money is made in podcasting. how to get more reviews (and subscribers) for your podcast, podcast hosting, and more.   ​

Big Podcast Insider is a weekly newsletter on podcasting. If you like the content of this episode, you can subscribe here – it's free and you can unsubscribe at any time with a single click.​

Want more help growing your podcast audience?

• Big Podcast Daily - Daily Podcasting Tips
• Big Podcast AMP (Audio Monetization Program)