Send us a text

In this episode, I’m joined by Josh Emrick, founder of JECP (Josh Emrick Creative Partners)—a video storytelling studio dedicated to helping rebels, culture shapers, and bold thinkers bring their visions to life. Josh isn’t your average video guy—he’s a “story sculptor” who values emotional resonance, creative risk-taking, and deep relationships with clients. We unpack how he built a business rooted in honesty and collaboration, why he ditched volume-based work for meaningful projects, and how he's staying human in an AI-heavy world.

What We Talk About:

Josh and I dive into his unique approach to storytelling, building lasting client relationships, and how his rebellious roots in skateboarding and the music scene inform his creative process. We also talk about the challenges of staying artistic while making a living, balancing work with parenting, and the evolving role of AI in production.

In a Nutshell:

• Why storytelling needs rebellion, vulnerability, and trust
• How Josh defines his role as a “story sculptor,” not just a video producer
• The value of client fit over flashy budgets
• Using storytelling to push past vanity metrics and superficial branding
• Navigating creative burnout and reclaiming your artistic spark
• How having kids changed his approach to work and creativity
• Smart ways to integrate AI in storytelling workflows without losing soul
• What corporate clients really want (hint: not just a “sick video”)
• Why Midwestern work ethic and community have been a hidden advantage
• Thoughts on creative reps, DIY culture, and learning by doing

Connect with Josh & JECP:

• 🌐 Website: jecp.co
• 📸 Instagram: JECP Instagram 
• 💼 LinkedIn: JECP LinkedIn 

Podcast Recommendation from Josh:

🎧 What You Don’t Hear — a podcast hosted by Ross Tyson, featuring deep conversations with creatives and entrepreneurs about their real-life challenges, journeys, and wins.

Resources:

• 🧠 Podcast Equipment Finder Tool: Equipment Finder link – get gear suggestions based on your needs, use case, and budget
• 🛠️ Podcast Name Checker Tool - Starting a podcast? Use our Podcast Name Checker to ensure the name you want is available across Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and the web

Connect with The Podcast Haven

• Homepage
• LinkedIn
• Blog
• YouTube
• Instagram
• Listen To CLIPPED

Send us a text

Recording on the go? Whether you're traveling, off-grid, or just trying to keep things simple, this episode breaks down three podcast setups you can take anywhere this summer.

A Word From Our Sponsor:

This episode is sponsored by Riverside.fm – With Riverside you can record high quality audio and video podcasts remotely. Use promo code CLIPPED for 20% off.

What I Cover:

1. USB Mic + Laptop – Great if you're bringing your laptop. Plug-and-play with mics like the Samson Q2U or Audio-Technica ATR2100x. I recommend Riverside.fm to record.
2. Lavalier Mic + iPhone – Perfect for video content and social media. I’m using the Rode Wireless Me, but DJI works too. Great audio and auto-synced video.
3. Zoom H6 Handheld Recorder – For those doing screen-free solo recording. Pair it with an XLR mic like the Shure SM58 and record straight to a memory card.

Resources:

• 🧠 Podcast Equipment Finder Tool: Equipment Finder link – get gear suggestions based on your needs, use case, and budget
• 🛠️ Podcast Name Checker Tool - Starting a podcast? Use our Podcast Name Checker to ensure the name you want is available across Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and the web

Connect with The Podcast Haven

• Homepage
• LinkedIn
• Blog
• YouTube
• Instagram
• Listen To CLIPPED

Thanks for tuning in! Go enjoy the summer—and keep creating wherever you are.

Send us a text

Coming off a long July 4th weekend, I’m diving into three quick updates for creators: new studio monitors from KRK made specifically for podcasters and video editors, a leaked Spotify program offering $5,000 in ad credits for video uploads, and details on this year’s Podcast Movement conference in Dallas.

A Word From Our Sponsor:

This episode is sponsored by Riverside.fm – With Riverside you can record high quality audio and video podcasts remotely. Use promo code CLIPPED for 20% off.

🧠 What You’ll Learn:

• Why KRK’s new Kreate series monitors matter for creators—not just musicians
• How Spotify’s $5K ad credit leak signals their shift into video beyond podcasting
• Why Podcast Movement is still one of the top places to meet creators and learn what’s working

🔥 Pro Tips:

• If you're upgrading your setup, look for monitors with built-in EQ tuning like the KRK Kreate series
• Spotify’s video push means more opportunities for non-podcast content—get ahead now
• Use promo code PODNEWS to save $75 on Podcast Movement tickets

👋 Final Thoughts:

From hardware to platform shifts, it’s clear the creator economy is growing fast—both physically and digitally. Whether you're tuning your mix or considering running video content on Spotify, there’s plenty to act on this week.

Resources:

• 🧠 Podcast Equipment Finder Tool: Equipment Finder link – get gear suggestions based on your needs, use case, and budget
• 🛠️ Podcast Name Checker Tool - Starting a podcast? Use our Podcast Name Checker to ensure the name you want is available across Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and the web

Connect with The Podcast Haven

• Homepage
• LinkedIn
• Blog
• YouTube
• Instagram
• Listen To CLIPPED

Send us a text

Rerunning old podcast episodes isn’t lazy—it’s smart. In this episode, I break down why replaying your greatest hits can actually help grow your show, re-engage your audience, and give you a well-deserved breather—especially during busy seasons like summer.

A Word From Our Sponsor:

This episode is sponsored by  Riverside.fm - With Riverside you can record high quality audio and video podcasts remotely. Use promo code CLIPPED for 20% off.

I cover when it makes sense to start republishing old episodes, how to pick which ones to rerun, and best practices for keeping things fresh with updated intros or edits. Whether you're managing family time or just need to keep content flowing, this strategy helps you stay consistent and serve both new and loyal listeners.

🧠 What You’ll Learn:

• Why rerunning episodes is a valid growth and retention strategy
• When it's the right time to revisit old content (hint: not at episode 10)
• How to use analytics to choose your most replay-worthy episodes
• Easy ways to freshen up older content with new intros or edits
• Why summer and holiday seasons are prime for reruns

🔥 Pro Tips:

• Don’t just drop an old episode—record a quick intro letting listeners know why you're replaying it
• Look at your top 10 most downloaded episodes and pick one that still holds up
• Add updated commentary if the topic has evolved
• Avoid re-airing unless you’ve built up a solid back catalog (75+ eps is ideal)

👋 Final Thoughts:

Rerunning episodes is a way to double down on what’s working. You’re not repeating yourself—you’re reinforcing value. And with so many listeners tuning in months or years after your launch, a replay could be brand new to someone today.

Resources:

• 🧠 Podcast Equipment Finder Tool: Equipment Finder link – get gear suggestions based on your needs, use case, and budget
• 🛠️ Podcast Name Checker Tool - Starting a podcast? Use our Podcast Name Checker to ensure the name you want is available across Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and the web

Connect with The Podcast Haven

• Homepage
• LinkedIn
• Blog
• YouTube
• Instagram
• Listen To CLIPPED

Send us a text

Today we’re jumping back into podcast SEO. If you want to boost your show's visibility on Apple, Spotify, and Google, you’re in the right spot.

This episode builds on the five SEO tips from Episode 54 with two new strategies to help your show get found by the right people.

This episode is sponsored by  Riverside.fm - With Riverside you can record high quality audio and video podcasts remotely. Use promo code CLIPPED for 20% off.

Why Podcast SEO Still Matters

Podcast SEO helps you get discovered without relying on social media or ads. I’m breaking down simple tactics that help your show rank and attract more listeners.

SEO Tips Recap + Two New Ones:

• Turn Episodes Into Blog Posts
  Transcriptions make your content searchable. Google prioritizes written content—get it on your site.
• Title Smarter
  Use clear, keyword-rich titles. It’s the easiest way to boost clickthroughs and rankings.
• Do Keyword Research
  Use Google Trends, Ahrefs, or even YouTube autocomplete to find what people are searching for in your niche.
• Improve Your Show Notes
  Go beyond a few lines. Aim for 300+ words with key takeaways, resources, and keywords.
• Expand to YouTube
  Upload your audio with a static image or simple video. YouTube is the second-largest search engine.
• Be a Guest on Other Shows
  Earn backlinks and reach new listeners. This boosts SEO and credibility.
• Encourage Engagement
  Reviews, shares, and social interaction signal value to platforms and search engines.

🎯 Tools to Grow Your Show (Free to Use)

• 🧠 Podcast Equipment Finder Tool – Not sure what mic or gear to buy? Get personalized gear picks based on your setup, format, and budget.
• 🛠️ Podcast Name Checker Tool – Starting a new show? Check if your podcast name is available on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, social handles, and the web.

💬 Stay Connected with The Podcast Haven

If you’re serious about growing your podcast, follow along here:

• Homepage
• LinkedIn
• Blog
• YouTube
• Instagram
• Listen to CLIPPED

Send us a text

You don’t need to drop a ton of cash to launch a solid podcast. In this quick solo episode, I break down a simple yet professional podcast setup that’ll cost you less than $100. No junk gear, no sketchy knockoffs—just proven tools that podcasters (myself included) actually use. 

This episode is sponsored by  Riverside.fm - With Riverside you can record high quality audio and video podcasts remotely. Use promo code CLIPPED for 20% off.

From a versatile mic to free editing and recording tools, I walk you through everything you need to start recording great-sounding audio right away. I also plug my free Podcast Equipment Finder tool if you want even more tailored gear recommendations. No excuses—get started today with what you’ve got.

Resources From This Episode:

• 🎙 Mic: Samson Q2U – an affordable USB/XLR mic that punches above its price
• 🛠 Mic Stand: Amazon mic stand options – solid stands for under $20
• 🌐 Riverside.fm: Riverside link – record high-quality video and audio, remote or solo; use promo code CLIPPED for 20% off
• ✂️ Descript: Descript link – edit your podcast by editing the transcript, even on a free plan
• 🧠 Podcast Equipment Finder Tool: Equipment Finder link – get gear suggestions based on your needs, use case, and budget
• 🛠️ Podcast Name Checker Tool - Starting a podcast? Use our Podcast Name Checker to ensure the name you want is available across Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and the web

Connect with The Podcast Haven

• Homepage
• LinkedIn
• Blog
• YouTube
• Instagram
• Listen To CLIPPED

Send us a text

One of the biggest myths in podcasting: that you have to be everywhere to grow. Spoiler alert — you don’t. Instead of burning out trying to post across every social media platform, this episode will help you understand the power of focus. 

In this episode, Eric makes the case for doubling down on 2-3 key platforms that actually move the needle for your podcast, based on your content format and strengths.

🧠 What You’ll Learn:

• Why being on every platform is a waste of your time early on
• How to choose channels that actually align with your business/goals
• Platform suggestions based on your podcast format
• The difference between real growth vs. fake busy work

This episode is sponsored by  Riverside.fm - With Riverside you can record high quality audio and video podcasts remotely. Use promo code CLIPPED for 20% off.

🛠️ Resources:

• Podcast Name Checker Tool - Starting a podcast? Use our Podcast Name Checker to ensure the name you want is available across Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and the web
• Podcast Equipment Finder - Fill out a 1 minute questionnaire and our equipment finder will automatically suggest podcast equipment for you based on your needs. You can purchase that gear through our Amazon links.

Connect with The Podcast Haven:

• Homepage
• LinkedIn
• Blog
• YouTube
• Instagram
• Listen To CLIPPED

Send us a text

Spotify just dropped a new metric: Plays. It’s supposed to show how many times your episode was played—similar to YouTube views—but as of now, it’s only visible inside Spotify for Podcasters, not to the public.

This episode is sponsored by  Riverside.fm - With Riverside you can record high quality audio and video podcasts remotely. Use promo code CLIPPED for 20% off.

In this episode, I break down:

• What the “Plays” metric actually tracks
• Why creators are confused (and a little worried)
• The difference between Spotify Plays, Streams, and Apple Podcast Downloads
• What this means for advertisers and how they buy podcast ad space
• And the bigger question—how do we define success with so many overlapping metrics?

Right now, it’s a mess. But it’s also part of podcasting growing up. I’m not sure how I feel yet, but I’m watching closely—and still focused on making content I love.

📖 Related Reading:

• NBC News: Spotify’s new play count feature has podcasters worried
• Spotify’s official metric breakdown
• Spotify For Podcasters
• Apple Podcasts Connect

🎥 Check out more gear reviews, tutorials, and content tips on my YouTube channel: youtube.com/@thepodcasthaven

🛠️ Resources:

• Podcast Name Checker Tool - Starting a podcast? Use our Podcast Name Checker to ensure the name you want is available across Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and the web

Connect with The Podcast Haven:

• Homepage
• LinkedIn
• Blog
• YouTube
• Instagram

Send us a text

In this episode, I take you on a step-by-step walkthrough of how I edit a podcast using Pro Tools. I’m breaking down my exact process—from importing audio into my custom template, to cutting filler, cleaning up breaths, applying effects, and delivering a polished final mix. Whether you’re new to editing or just curious how it’s done at a professional level, this episode gives you a behind-the-scenes look at a typical podcast editor’s workflow.

I’ll also touch on tools like iZotope RX, Riverside.fm, and how I manage my plugin chain to get crisp, broadcast-ready audio.

This episode is sponsored by  Riverside.fm - With Riverside you can record high quality audio and video podcasts remotely. Use promo code CLIPPED for 20% off.

This episode is perfect for:

• Aspiring podcast editors
• Podcasters looking to DIY their editing
• Clients who want to understand what editing actually involves
• Anyone curious about Pro Tools or my setup

🛠️ Tools I Use In This Episode:

• ProTools 
• Izoptope RX
• Waves Plugins 
• Slate Plugins

🛠️ Resources:

• Podcast Name Checker Tool - Starting a podcast? Use our Podcast Name Checker to ensure the name you want is available across Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and the web

Connect with The Podcast Haven:

• Homepage
• LinkedIn
• Blog
• YouTube
• Instagram

Send us a text

Before you spend time and money launching your own podcast, consider this: guesting on other people’s shows might actually be a more effective podcast marketing strategy. In this solo episode of CLIPPED, I’m breaking down why guesting can deliver faster and more targeted results than hosting—especially if your main goals are audience growth, brand visibility, or selling a product or service.

Launching a show from scratch is no small feat. Between content creation, editing, publishing, and promotion, hosting your own podcast can turn into a full-time job. That’s where podcast marketing strategy through guest appearances comes in. It allows you to tap into existing audiences, establish credibility instantly, and focus your energy on spreading your message—without the burden of managing an entire production schedule.

Guesting is one of the most underutilized tactics in any effective podcast marketing strategy, yet it can deliver faster results than hosting your own show. By appearing on podcasts that already have a loyal, niche audience, you gain access to warm leads and engaged listeners who trust the host. It’s a shortcut to podcast discoverability, helping you reach your ideal audience faster than if you tried to build one from the ground up.

In this episode, I’ll walk you through:

• Why hosting a show is often more time-consuming and less impactful early on
• How guesting gets you in front of high-intent audiences with no upfront costs
• When guesting should be your core strategy—and when it makes sense to start your own podcast later on
• Tactical tips on finding the right shows to pitch and getting booked
• How this fits into a broader content creation and audience growth strategy

Whether you’re a content creator, business owner, or part of an enterprise podcast team looking for smarter ways to grow your reach, this episode is for you.

🎯 This episode also touches on:

• Podcast marketing techniques
• Audience growth for podcasts
• Content creation education
• Tools for content creators
• Podcast production workload vs. return
• Effective podcasting techniques for brand building

🛠️ Resources Mentioned:

• Podcast Name Checker Tool - Starting a podcast? Use our Podcast Name Checker to ensure the name you want is available across Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and the web

Connect with The Podcast Haven:

• Homepage
• LinkedIn
• Blog
• YouTube
• Instagram