Podcast Insider

Podcast Insider

By Mike Dell, MacKenzie Bennett, Dave ClementsBusinessTechnologyEducationHow ToMarketing
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Podcast Insider episodes

  • The Potential of Video Podcasting – PCI 401

    Welcome to another exciting episode of our podcast! In this episode, we discuss the world of video podcasting and specifically just how easy it can be with Blubrry. Podcasters and creators of all levels will learn about the unique opportunities and challenges video podcasting presents. Join us as we discuss the technical aspects of video production, content creation techniques, and how to effectively engage with your audience through visual storytelling.

    When it comes to podcasting in general, a video podcast is not that much harder to publish in an RSS feed than audio is. Simply upload an mp4 (the best format for a video podcast) and the rest is the same. On the production side, it’s a bit more complex.

    Doing a video podcast via RSS is more cancel-proof. It also allows you to distribute to more than one platform.

    Here are some things to think about if you are going to do a video podcast:

    Technical Setup

    • Quality Equipment: Invest in a good camera, microphone, and lighting.
    • Editing Software: Use reliable video editing software to ensure high-quality production.
    • Hosting Platform: Choose a hosting platform such as Blubrry that supports video files and can generate an RSS feed.
      • Note: Video files are much larger than audio files.
      • Content Preparation

        • Script/Outline: Prepare a script or outline to keep the podcast organized and engaging.
        • Consistency: Maintain a regular schedule for releasing episodes.
        • Target Audience: Know your target audience and tailor content to their interests.
        • Recording

          • Environment: Record in a quiet, well-lit space to minimize background noise and visual distractions.
          • Testing: Test your equipment and settings before recording to avoid technical issues.
          • Backup: Always have a backup recording to prevent data loss.
          • Post-Production

            • Editing: Edit for clarity and pacing, and remove any mistakes or unwanted sections.
              • Video can be more challenging to edit than audio.
              • If you are going to do an audio version of your video, edit the video and then extract the audio for your audio podcast (in that order).
              • Branding: Add intros, outros, and any branding elements to create a professional look.
              • Transcripts: Provide transcripts for accessibility.
              • Distribution

                • RSS Feed: Ensure your RSS feed is properly configured to distribute video content.
                • Platforms: Submit your RSS feed to various podcast platforms like Apple Podcasts, Podcast Index and some others. (Video is not used on as many platforms as audio is.)
                  • As a secondary distribution, upload to YouTube, Facebook, X, Spotify if you’re careful and other social media.
                  • SEO: Optimize episode titles, descriptions, and tags for better discoverability.
                  • Marketing

                    • Promotion: Use social media, email newsletters, and collaborations to promote your podcast.
                    • Engagement: Engage with your audience through comments, social media interactions, surveys and feedback.
                    • Analytics: Monitor analytics to understand viewer behavior and improve future episodes.
                    • Legal Considerations

                      • Copyright: Ensure you have the rights to all content used, including music and images.
                      • Disclaimers: Include any necessary disclaimers or disclosures for transparency.
                      • Miscellaneous

                        • Storage: Have adequate storage for video files and backups.
                        • Updates: Keep your equipment and software updated to avoid technical issues.
                        • Adaptability: Be open to feedback and willing to make changes to improve your podcast.
                        • Thanks for tuning in to this episode all about video podcasts! We hope you found our discussion informative and inspiring. Remember, integrating video into your podcasting strategy can open up new avenues for audience engagement and growth. Until next time, keep creating, keep sharing, and happy podcasting!

                          The best place for support with any Blubrry product or service is our ticket system. Tickets give the whole team access vs. direct emails or calls. General podcasting discussion and more can be shared on the Blubrry Podcasting Facebook group.

                          Fill out our listener survey at surveys.blubrry.com/podcastinsider

                          Hosting customers can schedule a one-on-one call with Todd or a tech checkup with Mike.

                          20 min
                        • 400th Episode of Blubrry’s Podcast – PCI 400

                          We’ve got a special episode of Podcast Insider as the Blubrry team celebrates our 400th episode! Join us as we reflect on our journey, share highlights and stories from past episodes, and discuss what’s next for Blubrry Podcasting. This milestone is a testament to our incredible community of podcasters, listeners, and supporters. Thank you for being part of our journey!

                          • Episode 400 is likely not completely accurate. We guessed when we started Podcast Insider by adding up all the prior episodes of all the prior podcasts, but it’s close enough 🙂
                          • Cathy and Todd reflect on attending the Podcast Show in London in May
                          • Different names of this podcast
                            • Blubrry community podcast – Just about anything, no schedule.
                            • PowerPress Podcast – MacKenzie interviewed PowerPress and Blubrry users –  Weekly(Ish)
                            • Your Podcast – Todd and Mike talked about deep subjects around podcasting – Weekly(Ish)
                            • We combined PowerPress Podcast and Your Podcast into Podcast Insider – The current show with Mike, Mac and Todd weekly
                            • Todd has been a podcasting pioneer for 20 years Inaugurated into the Podcaster Hall of Fame in 2015, wrote the first book on podcasting
                            • Humble beginnings – Started with just Todd in 2004 and then brought on other staff in 2005 and then added more full-time employees in 2015 and have continued down that road.
                            • We want to extend our deepest gratitude to each and every one of you who have been part of this incredible journey. Your support, feedback, and enthusiasm have been the driving force behind our success. We’ve shared countless stories, learned valuable lessons, and built a community that thrives on the passion for podcasting.

                              Here’s to the next 400 episodes and beyond—continuing to innovate, inspire, and celebrate the world of podcasting together. Stay tuned for more exciting content, and as always, happy podcasting!

                              The best place for support with any Blubrry product or service is our ticket system. Tickets give the whole team access vs. direct emails or calls. General podcasting discussion and more can be shared on the Blubrry Podcasting Facebook group.

                              Fill out our listener survey at surveys.blubrry.com/podcastinsider

                              Hosting customers can schedule a one-on-one call with Todd or a tech checkup with Mike.

                              34 min
                            • Unleashing Control Over Your Podcast Platform with WordPress and PowerPress – PCI 399

                              Today Blubrry discusses the essentials of building and maintaining a podcast website. We explore why having your own site is crucial for total control over your content and audience engagement. Specifically, we’ll focus on the advantages of using WordPress paired with our plugin, PowerPress. Your show is never safer than when it’s in your hands.

                              If you are using WordPress and PowerPress for your podcast publishing, YOU are the platform. This is good. You own the feed address and get all the SEO benefits to your brand. BUT, with great power, comes great responsibility!

                              Here are the main pros and cons of being your own podcast platform.
                              Pros

                              1. Control and Customization

                              • Full Control: You have complete control over your content, layout, and feed settings.
                              • Customization Options: PowerPress offers various customization options for your podcast, including episode-specific settings, SEO features, and advanced feed settings.
                              • 2. SEO Benefits

                                • SEO Integration: WordPress is SEO-friendly, and PowerPress enhances this by allowing you to optimize your podcast episodes for search engines.
                                • Increased Visibility: Proper SEO practices can increase your podcast’s visibility, attracting more listeners.
                                • 3. Integrated Website

                                  • Unified Platform: Having your podcast and website on the same platform can simplify management and provide a seamless experience for your audience.
                                  • Additional Content: You can easily add blog posts, show notes, and other content related to your podcast episodes.
                                  • 4. Monetization and Analytics

                                    • Monetization Options: You can integrate ads, affiliate links, and other monetization methods directly on your site.
                                    • Detailed Analytics: PowerPress provides detailed podcast analytics, helping you understand your audience and improve your content.
                                    • 5. Community and Support

                                      • Large Community: WordPress has a large community of users and developers, providing extensive support and resources.
                                      • Regular Updates: Both WordPress and PowerPress receive regular updates, ensuring your site remains secure and functional.
                                      • Cons

                                        1. Technical Knowledge Required

                                        • Learning Curve: Setting up and managing a WordPress site with PowerPress can be complex, especially for beginners.
                                        • Maintenance: Regular updates and maintenance are required to keep your site secure and running smoothly.
                                        • 2. Hosting Costs

                                          • Additional Costs: You need to pay for web hosting, domain registration, and possibly premium plugins or themes, which can add up.
                                          • 3. Potential for Technical Issues

                                            • Compatibility Issues: Plugins and themes can sometimes conflict, causing issues that need troubleshooting.
                                            • Security Vulnerabilities: A poorly maintained WordPress site can be vulnerable to security threats, requiring vigilance and security measures.
                                            • Too much security: Your RSS feed needs to remain public and not behind any firewalls or other blocking for security reasons. Some systems can block your feed from Apple and other destinations which defeats the podcasting works. In most cases, you are not trying to protect Fort Knox!
                                            • 4. Time-Consuming

                                              • Content Management: Managing a WordPress site can be time-consuming, especially if you’re also focusing on creating podcast content.
                                              • Backup and Recovery: Regular backups are essential to avoid data loss, adding to the time and effort needed.
                                              • 5. Dependence on Plugins

                                                • Plugin Reliance: Relying heavily on plugins to from the way your site LOOKS can sometimes lead to issues if plugins become outdated or unsupported.
                                                • Performance Impact: Too many plugins can slow down your website, affecting user experience and SEO.
                                                • At the end of the day you are responsible for the well-being of your podcast and it’s corresponding website. Blubrry is here to help you and ensure that you are able to get the best experience possible, but the fate of your podcast is in your hands.

                                                  The best place for support with any Blubrry product or service is our ticket system. Tickets give the whole team access vs. direct emails or calls. General podcasting discussion and more can be shared on the Blubrry Podcasting Facebook group.

                                                  Fill out our listener survey at surveys.blubrry.com/podcastinsider

                                                  Hosting customers can schedule a one-on-one call with Todd or a tech checkup with Mike.

                                                  20 min
                                                • On the Road to Success: Podwheels’ Path with Greg Thompson – PCI 398

                                                  The podcasting path has been long and prosperous for our Podcaster of the Month, Greg Thompson.

                                                  Greg Thompson

                                                  Since its launch in 2016, Thompson’s show, PodWheels, has produced more than 1,500 podcast episodes while generating more than 200,000 downloads. In this episode of Podcast Insider, he shared with us the long and winding road that led his career from sports celebrity interviews to the shared wisdom and important insights of truckers. Join Mike Dell as he learns of the incredible journey of Greg Thompson and the impactful stories from the world of trucking.

                                                  Check out the Podwheels network here

                                                  Find his Podcaster of the Month article here

                                                  The best place for support with any Blubrry product or service is our ticket system. Tickets give the whole team access vs. direct emails or calls. General podcasting discussion and more can be shared on the Blubrry Podcasting Facebook group.

                                                  Fill out our listener survey at surveys.blubrry.com/podcastinsider

                                                  Hosting customers can schedule a one-on-one call with Todd or a tech checkup with Mike.

                                                  43 min
                                                • Innovative Ad Strategies for Podcasters: A Deep Dive – PCI 397

                                                  Today we dive into the cutting-edge world of advertising strategies tailored specifically for podcasters. The monetization opportunities for podcasters is always changing, but there are a few ways that will always stick around. In this episode, we explore innovative ad techniques that go beyond traditional methods, helping you maximize your revenue while maintaining a seamless listening experience for your audience. The Blubrry team’s expert advice on this topic can helps with actionable insights and advice to elevate your ad game. Discover how to transform your advertising approach to stand out in the ever-competitive podcasting industry.

                                                  Two Main Types of Podcast Ad Strategies:

                                                  1. Dynamic Ad Insertion (DAI): (Programmatic) This allows podcasters to insert ads into their episodes dynamically, so different listeners might hear different ads depending on factors like location, listening platform, or time of day. This flexibility means that ads can be more relevant and timely.

                                                  2. Content Insertion: You manually set this up to insert ads, promos, intros, outros, and other such content. It’s less dynamic than DAI as it’s the same for everyone who listens during the time period set in the system.

                                                  Ad insertion technology offers podcasters a variety of ways to enhance their podcasts and monetize their content effectively.

                                                  Here are some key uses of ad insertion tech in podcasting:

                                                  • Time-sensitive Advertising: Podcasters can insert ads that are relevant only for a certain period, such as promotions for an upcoming event or a sale that is about to end. After the event or sale, they can replace the ad with another without altering the original content of the podcast.
                                                  • A/B Testing: With ad insertion technology, podcasters can test different ads to see which performs better with their audience. This can be done by alternating between different ad versions across different episodes or even within the same episode over time.
                                                  • Improved Listener Experience: By using ad insertion, podcasters can place ads in natural breaks within the content, making the listening experience less disruptive. This strategic placement can help maintain listener engagement and reduce the likelihood of listeners skipping ads.
                                                  • Back Catalog Monetization: Podcasters can monetize older episodes by inserting new ads into them. This makes the entire catalog a potential source of revenue, not just the latest episodes.
                                                  • Tiered Subscription Models: Some podcasters offer ad-free versions of their podcasts to subscribers while using ad insertion to monetize the free versions. This can encourage more subscriptions while still generating revenue from non-subscribers.
                                                  • Sponsorship Flexibility: Ad insertion technology makes it easier for podcasters to manage sponsorships. They can switch sponsors across different episodes or seasons without needing to re-record anything.
                                                  • Performance Tracking: Podcasters can track how well different ads perform in terms of listener engagement and interaction. This data is crucial for improving ad strategies and demonstrating value to advertisers.
                                                  • Replacing Beg/End: Change your intro messages/music/outros at the beginning or end of your shows.
                                                  • Ad insertion tech (or, more accurately for this discussion, content insertion) is available in three ways at Blubrry; htey can be used for more than just advertising.

                                                    Here is what we offer at Blubrry:
                                                    • Manual ad insertion (Pre-roll only). Pre-roll ads for Thrive Bundle or Pro Hosting
                                                    • Manual ad insertion (Pre, Post, and Mid-roll). Full ad insertion with Blubrry Pro hosting
                                                    • Programmatic ad insertion. (DAI) Ads are automatically sold and inserted for you. You share in the revenue. $ This is available to ALL Blubrry hosting customers at no additional cost.
                                                    • By leveraging these capabilities, podcasters can not only increase their revenue but also improve the quality of their content and the satisfaction of their listeners.

                                                      Thanks for joining us on Podcast Insider, where we bring you insider access to the tools you need to succeed. Until next time, keep podcasting!

                                                      The best place for support with any Blubrry product or service is our ticket system. Tickets give the whole team access vs. direct emails or calls. General podcasting discussion and more can be shared on the Blubrry Podcasting Facebook group.

                                                      Fill out our listener survey at surveys.blubrry.com/podcastinsider

                                                      Hosting customers can schedule a one-on-one call with Todd or a tech checkup with Mike.

                                                      15 min
                                                    • From Listeners to Fans: Crafting Content That Pays Off – PCI 396

                                                      Creating exclusive content for paying podcast listeners is an excellent way to provide additional value and encourage more listeners to subscribe to premium tiers. Blubrry offers premium podcasting for creators to offer to their audience in hopes of not only creating special, specific content for them, but monetizing said content as well.

                                                      Here are several ways podcasters can offer exclusive content to their paying subscribers:

                                                      Bonus Episodes: Offer additional episodes that are available only to paying subscribers. These could include deeper dives into topics discussed in regular episodes, interviews with special guests, or entirely unique content not available in the main feed.

                                                      Early Access to Episodes: Allow paying subscribers to listen to episodes before they are released to the general public. This early access can be a significant draw for dedicated fans who eagerly anticipate new content.
                                                      Ad-Free Listening: Provide an ad-free experience for subscribers, which can make listening more enjoyable and streamlined.
                                                      Extended Episodes: Offer longer versions of regular episodes with extended discussions, additional segments, or uncut interviews that non-paying listeners don’t get to hear.
                                                      Behind-the-Scenes Content: Share insights into the podcast production process, including planning sessions, bloopers, and discussions about how episodes are put together. This type of content gives listeners a sense of involvement in the creative process.
                                                      Exclusive Q&A Sessions: Host live or recorded Q&A sessions where paying subscribers can submit questions. These could be about the podcast content, general advice, or personal questions for the host.
                                                      Interactive Content and Polls: Allow subscribers to vote on upcoming episode topics, guests, or other elements of the show. Engaging listeners in the content creation process can increase their investment in the podcast.
                                                      Member-Only Community Access: Create a private forum or chat group, such as on Discord or Slack, where subscribers can interact with each other and the hosts. This community aspect can be a strong incentive for fans to subscribe.
                                                      Exclusive Merchandise: Offer merchandise like t-shirts, mugs, or stickers that are only available to paying members or at a discounted rate compared to general availability.
                                                      Special Events: Invite subscribers to exclusive online or in-person events such as live recordings, meet-and-greets, or workshops.
                                                      Personalized Messages or Content: Provide personalized shout-outs, birthday messages, or other personalized content that makes subscribers feel valued on a personal level.

                                                      By leveraging these strategies, podcasters can create a compelling subscription offering that enhances listener engagement and boosts revenue, all while rewarding their most loyal fans with valuable content.

                                                      The best place for support with any Blubrry product or service is our ticket system. Tickets give the whole team access vs. direct emails or calls. General podcasting discussion and more can be shared on the Blubrry Podcasting Facebook group.

                                                      Fill out our listener survey at surveys.blubrry.com/podcastinsider

                                                      Hosting customers can schedule a one-on-one call with Todd or a tech checkup with Mike.

                                                      14 min
                                                    • Cross-post Strategies for Podcaster Collaboration – PCI 395
                                                      A Rising Tides Raises All Ships

                                                      As the world of podcasting continues to grow, creators must find innovative ways to expand their audience. Today, we’re diving into the art of cross-posting, a powerful tactic that leverages the magic of collaboration. Podcasters that team up with fellow hosts can amplify their reach and introduce each other’s content to a whole new crowd. Take note of these strategies and join us as we explore how to make cross-posting work for podcast hosts and their podcasting allies.

                                                      Today’s Hosts: MacKenzie Bennett and Todd Cochrane
                                                      Cross-post Strategies for Podcaster Collaboration
                                                      • Guest Appearances: One of the most common forms of collaboration is inviting a podcaster from another show to be a guest on your podcast and vice versa. This exposes both podcasts to each other’s audiences, potentially increasing listenership.
                                                      • Co-Hosting Episodes: Occasionally co-hosting episodes on each other’s platforms can mix things up for listeners and offer fresh perspectives and discussions, which can be particularly engaging and attract followers from each host’s base.
                                                      • Cross-Promotions: Podcasters can agree to promote each other’s shows. This could be through shout-outs during episodes, sharing each other’s content on social media, or including links in newsletters. It’s a simple yet effective way to reach new listeners who trust the recommender’s tastes.
                                                      • Content Collaboration: Working together to produce content, whether it’s a series, a special episode, or a segment within an episode, can blend the strengths and unique styles of each podcaster. This might involve thematic discussions, debates, or joint investigations.
                                                      • Community Events: Hosting live events, whether online or in person, can generate buzz and deepen engagement with audiences. These events can include live podcast recordings, Q&A sessions, or meetups, providing an interactive experience for listeners.
                                                      • Social Media Takeovers: Allow a fellow podcaster to take over your social media accounts for a day or vice versa. This can add variety to your content and introduce your audience to new voices and styles.
                                                      • Shared Resources: Pooling resources such as editing software, studio space, or marketing tools can reduce costs and increase production quality. Collaborators can also share knowledge and skills in these areas to enhance each other’s podcasts.
                                                      • Joint Ventures: Launching a new podcast together that combines the unique elements of each host’s existing podcasts can attract listeners from both audiences and capture new ones interested in the joint content.
                                                      • Affiliate Marketing: If both podcasts discuss similar topics or products, they can arrange to use affiliate links and promote products they genuinely like, earning commissions and providing valuable recommendations to their listeners.
                                                      • Network Partnerships: Joining or forming a network of podcasts that share a similar theme or audience can enhance cross-promotion opportunities and streamline various aspects of podcast production and marketing.
                                                      • Be sure to implement today’s tips on collaboration and cross-promotion into your podcasting strategy.

                                                        Thanks for joining us on Podcast Insider, where we bring you insider access to the tools you need to succeed. Until next time, keep podcasting!

                                                        The best place for support with any Blubrry product or service is our ticket system. Tickets give the whole team access vs. direct emails or calls. General podcasting discussion and more can be shared on the Blubrry Podcasting Facebook group.

                                                        Fill out our listener survey at surveys.blubrry.com/podcastinsider

                                                        Hosting customers can schedule a one-on-one call with Todd or a tech checkup with Mike.

                                                        18 min
                                                      • Podcast Statistics: What is Important – PCI 394

                                                        Todd and Mike sprinkle bits of advice about what podcast statistics that podcasters should pay more attention to as well as the ones that are less crucial to creators overall understanding of their success. Podcasters should focus on key statistics that reflect their unique goals and aspirations instead of getting caught up in every available metric.

                                                        Remember the importance of not stressing over stats but focusing on consistency and quality of the content to ensure steady growth and audience retention in the long term.

                                                        Today’s Hosts: Mike Dell and Todd Cochrane

                                                        Podcast statistics can be an important way of measuring your podcast’s success. Depending on your goal, stats can give you insights that can help you adjust your show’s content and marketing strategy.

                                                        What to Look For In Your Podcast Stats

                                                        Aka these are the important podcast statistics in our opinion 😉

                                                        • Listener Growth Rate: See how your show is growing (or not) over time, indicating the podcast’s appeal and reach.
                                                        • Download Numbers: (Per Episode) Provides a direct metric of how many times episodes are being downloaded (or listened to), reflecting the podcast’s popularity.
                                                          • Advertisers and Potential guests are most interested in per-episode downloads.
                                                          • Total downloads and downloads over X amount of time, for the whole show are interesting, but not super important.
                                                          • Retention: This includes the average listening duration and episode completion rate, which help understand how much of an episode listeners consume.
                                                          • Demographic Information: (This is not directly measurable in stats, but it can be done with a survey.) Insights into listeners’ age, location, and interests can guide content creation and marketing strategies.
                                                          • Subscriber/Listener Counts: The number of dedicated listeners who subscribe to receive updates or automatic downloads, indicating a stable listener base. This is sort of an unknowable stat, but there are ways to get a good idea.
                                                            • Check a single episode and see what the downloads were in the first 3 days or so.
                                                            • Also check for “mobile apps” in the apps section. Most of those will be “subscribers or followers” in the first 3 days or so.
                                                            • Use Blubrry’s Thrive bundle to add the listener/subscriber graph
                                                            • Trending Graphs: This gives you a snapshot of how your podcast is doing over time. An upward trend means it’s growing. On Blubrry stats, you can see trends Monthly, Daily and even hourly for the first 7 days.
                                                            • Non Crucial Podcast Stats

                                                              The items below are good for social proof, but may not tell you anything about your podcast success.

                                                              • Social Media Followers: Social media can be a good way to promote your show, but just because you have x followers does not mean everyone who follows you on social media will listen to your podcast.
                                                                • This includes subscribers to your YouTube channel, Facebook, etc.
                                                                • Website Hits: The same as social media. Just because someone clicks on your link and lands on the episode page on your website doesn’t always translate into a listen/download.
                                                                • Total Episodes Count: More episodes don’t necessarily mean higher quality or more listener engagement.
                                                                • Things to Keep in Mind When Reviewing Your Stats & Success
                                                                  • Try not to compare yourself to other podcasters. You have your own style, subject matter that might not be for everyone in your niche.
                                                                  • Podcast audiences ebb and flow. Someone might subscribe and listen to every episode but then disappear. People try out podcasts and then move on to other podcasts.
                                                                  • Episode totals might also go down and back up from episode to episode, this is normal.
                                                                  • You might get a big spike once in a while. If your show is mentioned in some high-profile way. Those listeners might just listen to that one episode and not subscribe.
                                                                  • Don’t stress or get obsessed with podcast stats. Podcasts grow slowly, and podcast stats are not instant. Try not to check stats several times a day, it will be frustrating.
                                                                  • Thanks for joining us on Podcast Insider, where we bring you insider access to the tools you need to succeed.Until next time, keep podcasting!

                                                                    The best place for support with any Blubrry product or service is our ticket system. Tickets give the whole team access vs. direct emails or calls. General podcasting discussion and more can be shared on the Blubrry Podcasting Facebook group.

                                                                    Fill out our listener survey at surveys.blubrry.com/podcastinsider

                                                                    Hosting customers can schedule a one-on-one call with Todd or a tech checkup with Mike.

                                                                    26 min
                                                                  • Creating a Podcast Website: Must-Have Features and Tips – PCI 393

                                                                    In today’s episode, we will delve into the podcast website must-have features, from selecting the perfect theme and SEO plugins to incorporating an effective audio player. Join us as we discuss the elements your podcast website needs, how to integrate social sharing, and tips to enhance your website’s user experience for your listeners.

                                                                    Today’s Hosts: Mike Dell and MacKenzie Bennett

                                                                    Creating a website for your podcast involves incorporating several essential tools and features to ensure functionality, audience engagement and SEO.

                                                                    Podcast Website Must-Haves

                                                                    RSS Feed Setup: Configuring an RSS feed specifically for the podcast, which enables the distribution of episodes to various podcast directories and platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other podcast apps..

                                                                    Integrating a Robust Podcast Player: Embedding a reliable podcast player that allows visitors to listen directly from the website. The player should support all episodes, offer play/pause functions, and track progress. The right player lets your listeners enjoy your content effortlessly on your site.

                                                                    SEO Optimization: Implementing search engine optimization techniques to increase the website’s visibility and ranks well, attracting more listeners via search engines.

                                                                    Episode Archive: A well-organized archive or library where visitors can browse through past episodes, categorized by date, topic, or guest.

                                                                    Search Functionality: Implementing a search bar to help users quickly find episodes or content based on specific keywords or themes.

                                                                    Subscription Options: Providing clear options for visitors to subscribe to the podcast via different platforms or email to receive updates on new episodes. Blubrry’s PowerPress provides a simple, pleasing subscribe widget.

                                                                    Effective Social Media Integration: Links or buttons to share podcast episodes on social media platforms, and widgets to display recent social media posts related to the podcast. Be sure to make it easy for your audience to share your episodes and increase your podcast’s reach.

                                                                    Contact Information: A dedicated section for contact information, encouraging listeners to engage, provide feedback, or send inquiries, possibly including a contact form.

                                                                    About Page: Include an informative about page detailing the podcast’s mission, the hosts, and the background story to help new visitors understand more about the podcast.

                                                                    Mobile Responsiveness: Ensuring the website is fully functional and looks good on mobile devices, considering many users might access the site from their phones.

                                                                    Blog or News Section: A blog or news section where you can post updates, announcements, behind-the-scenes content, and additional resources related to podcast episodes.

                                                                    Analytics Tools: Integration of tools like Google Analytics to monitor website traffic, listener behavior, and engagement metrics.

                                                                    Accessibility Features: Making sure the website is accessible to all users, including those with disabilities. This might involve text transcripts of episodes, use of alt-text for images, and compliance with web accessibility standards.

                                                                    Customizable Themes and Visuals: A visually appealing design that matches the branding of the podcast, which includes logos, color schemes, and a professional layout.

                                                                    Security Measures: Ensuring the website has SSL certificates for security, especially if you’re handling subscriptions or personal information.

                                                                    Blubrry’s free WordPress Site with hosting

                                                                    Blubrry’s recommendations for podcast websites

                                                                    You need a podcast website

                                                                    Podcast website hosting

                                                                    PowerPress for WordPress – manage your podcast on your site

                                                                    Thanks for joining us on this deep dive into making your podcast website as powerful and engaging as your content. Remember, these elements are crucial for creating a space where your audience can connect with your show and share it with the world.

                                                                    The best place for support with any Blubrry product or service is our ticket system. Tickets give the whole team access vs. direct emails or calls. General podcasting discussion and more can be shared on the Blubrry Podcasting Facebook group.

                                                                    Fill out our listener survey at surveys.blubrry.com/podcastinsider

                                                                    Hosting customers can schedule a one-on-one call with Todd or a tech checkup with Mike.

                                                                    23 min
                                                                  • Landing a Job in Podcasting: Insider Tips – PCI 392
                                                                    Sharing practical tips for landing a job in podcasting

                                                                    Whether you’re a seasoned audio engineer or a passionate storyteller looking to break into the industry, this episode is packed with valuable advice from top insiders.We uncover necessary skills, the dos and don’ts of applying, and how to make your resume stand out. Long-standing Blubrry employees share our experiences to help you turn your podcasting aspirations into a rewarding career.

                                                                    Today’s Hosts: Todd Cochrane, Mike Dell and MacKenzie Bennett

                                                                    Finding a job in the podcast industry involves a mix of networking, skill development, and strategic job searching. Here are some steps and tips to help you navigate your way into a podcasting career:

                                                                    1. Define Your Interests & Leverage Podcast Skillset
                                                                    • As a podcaster you already have skills (Assuming you didn’t pay someone to do these things for you)
                                                                      • Managing your RSS feed and distribution
                                                                      • Show planning
                                                                      • Show production (recording and editing)
                                                                      • Producing show notes / posts
                                                                      • Marketing the podcast
                                                                      • Recording
                                                                      • Editing audio/video
                                                                      • 2. Build a Portfolio
                                                                        • Create Your Own Podcast: This is a great way to gain hands-on experience and showcase your abilities.
                                                                        • Contribute to Existing Podcasts: Offer to work (even as a volunteer initially) on existing podcasts to gain experience and build your portfolio.
                                                                        • 3. Networking
                                                                          • Social Media and Forums: Engage with podcast communities on platforms like Reddit, LinkedIn, and Twitter. Join discussions, ask for advice, and share your work.
                                                                          • Events and Conferences: Attend podcasting workshops, conferences, and meetups to network with industry professionals.
                                                                          • 4. Utilize Job Platforms
                                                                            • Podcast-Specific Job Boards: Websites like Podjobs.net, Inside Podcasting, and the Podcast Movement’s job board are good places to find industry-specific listings.
                                                                            • General Job Websites: Don’t overlook general job platforms like Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor. Use keywords related to podcasting to find opportunities.
                                                                            • Company Websites: Always check the podcast companies’ websites career center. We at Blubrry occasionally need people and will post the jobs on our site.
                                                                            • 5. Pitch and Apply Strategically
                                                                              • Customize Applications: Tailor your resume and cover letter for each application to highlight the most relevant skills and experiences.
                                                                              • Cold Outreach: Don’t be afraid to reach out to podcasters or podcast companies you admire to inquire about potential opportunities or to offer your services.
                                                                              • 6. Continuous Learning
                                                                                • Stay Updated: The podcast industry is evolving rapidly. Keep learning about new trends, technologies, and strategies to remain relevant.
                                                                                • Podcasting Student Discount: Blubrry just announced a generous 50% off discount for a full year for our hosting plans for any college student. Learn more about the podcasting student discount here.
                                                                                • 7. Consider Freelancing
                                                                                  • Freelance Platforms: Websites like Upwork, Freelancer, and Fiverr can be good places to find freelance podcast-related jobs and build more experience.
                                                                                  • Create Your Own Job:
                                                                                    • Content consulting
                                                                                    • Technical consulting
                                                                                    • Editor
                                                                                    • Host other people’s podcast
                                                                                    • Voiceover
                                                                                    • Marketing podcasts
                                                                                    • 8. Internships and Entry-Level Positions
                                                                                      • Start Small: If you’re new to the industry, an internship or an entry-level position can be a valuable stepping stone, offering both experience and networking opportunities.
                                                                                      • Navigating a career in podcasting can be both challenging and exciting. Persistence, continuous learning, and active engagement with the podcasting community are key to finding your place in the industry.

                                                                                        The best place for support with any Blubrry product or service is our ticket system. Tickets give the whole team access vs. direct emails or calls. General podcasting discussion and more can be shared on the Blubrry Podcasting Facebook group.

                                                                                        Fill out our listener survey at surveys.blubrry.com/podcastinsider

                                                                                        Hosting customers can schedule a one-on-one call with Todd or a tech checkup with Mike.

                                                                                        30 min

                                                                                      About Podcast Insider

                                                                                      From the publisher's feed

                                                                                      Blubrry’s official podcast where we talk about the podcasting industry, Blubrry news and interview podcasters on why they started their podcast.

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