In this episode, I share actionable insights to create podcast content that keeps your audience engaged and wanting more. From understanding your ideal listener to creating high-quality audio and leveraging repurposed content, I cover everything you need to grow your podcast.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

• The importance of knowing your audience and building content just for them.
• Striking the perfect balance between planning and spontaneity.
• Tips for maintaining consistent themes to build trust and loyalty.
• Why great audio matters more than you think (and how to achieve it).
• Engaging with your listeners to build a vibrant community.
• Smart ways to repurpose content across platforms for maximum reach.

Timestamps/Chapters

00:00 – Intro: Making Content That Truly Connects

01:16 – Why Audience Research Is a Game-Changer

03:36 – Defining Your Listener Avatar

06:00 – Planning vs. Spontaneity: Striking the Right Balance

10:48 – The Power of Consistency in Podcast Themes

14:09 – How Audio Quality Impacts Listener Retention

18:26 – Engaging Listeners: Building Community Through Feedback

20:42 – Repurposing Content: Maximizing Your Podcast’s Reach

24:52 – Wrapping Up: Getting Listeners to Subscribe and Stay

Podgagement® (formerly “My Podcast Reviews”) is all about simplifying your podcasting and helping you engage your audience and grow your podcast!

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Elevate your podcasting game with Riverside.fm's studio-quality recordings, lightning-fast editing, and enhanced streaming capabilities—try it today! Get 15% off with discount code Podtastic 

Riverside.Fm 

In this episode of Podtastic Audio, we explore how to make your podcast stand out in a crowded space. From finding your unique voice to experimenting with creative formats, I’ll share tips to help you build a podcast that connects with listeners and reflects your personality. Plus, with the holiday season here, it’s the perfect time to refresh your branding and try something new.

• Discover Your Superpower: Identify what makes your voice and perspective unique to captivate your audience.
• Experiment With Formats: Try holiday themes, guest panels, or mini-series to keep things fresh.
• Polish Your Branding: Ensure your cover art, descriptions, and overall presentation match your podcast’s vibe.
• Engage Your Audience: Use listener feedback to guide your content and build loyalty.
• Seasonal Inspiration: Add festive touches to your episodes for timely engagement.

Timestamps/Chapters 

00:00 - Introduction: Finding Your Unique Podcasting Voice 

00:18 - Sponsor: Recording with Riverside.fm

01:22 - Reflecting on 2024: Why Your Voice Matters

02:50 - What Makes Your Podcast Unique

03:38 - Tips for Tapping Into Your Passions

05:46 - Showcasing Your Personality

07:40 - Experimenting with New Formats

10:17 - The Importance of Branding

13:24 - Refreshing Episode Artwork

15:13 - Final Thoughts: Standing Out by Being Yourself

17:04 - Call to Action: Connect and Share

Podgagement® (formerly “My Podcast Reviews”) is all about simplifying your podcasting and helping you engage your audience and grow your podcast!

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Happy Thanksgiving! This episode is all about gratitude and making your podcasting journey easier. I’ll share a fantastic free tool for embedding chapters into your MP3 files that can help take your episodes to the next level. Thanks to Paul O'Flaherty! 

Special shoutout to Dan LeFebvre from Based on a True Story for his expert advice on MP3 encoding. He explains why Constant Bit Rate (CBR) is essential for podcasters and how it ensures a seamless experience for your listeners.

Whether you’re learning about chapters, tackling MP3 tips, or just looking for podcasting inspiration, this episode is packed with actionable advice to improve your craft. 

What’s Inside: 

• Why podcast chapters matter and how to add them easily. 
• Dan LeFebvre’s tips on MP3 encoding (CBR vs. VBR explained).
• The importance of learning from mistakes (yes, I skipped Episode 177!).
• A big THANK YOU to you for being part of this journey.

Links Mentioned: MP3 Chapters Tool 

Chapters / Timestamps

00:00 Thanksgiving Greetings – Reflecting on gratitude for listeners and the podcasting journey.

00:24 Welcome to Podtastic Audio – Helping podcasters create better shows.

00:43 Why Podcasts Fit Busy Lives – How audio podcasts are perfect for multitasking.

02:11 Lessons from My Journey – Sharing challenges, mistakes, and what I’ve learned.

04:13 Episode Numbering Tips – Why numbering episodes can help you and your listeners.

07:21 Discovering MP3 Chapters – A free tool to add chapters to your podcast.

10:34 Embedding Chapters Made Easy – How to embed chapters directly into MP3 files.

12:08 Dan LeFebvre on MP3 Bitrates – Why CBR is crucial for podcast quality and compatibility.

17:45 Gratitude and Reflections – Thanking listeners and celebrating the podcasting community.

19:35 Closing Thoughts – Encouragement to keep creating great podcasts.

Podgagement® (formerly “My Podcast Reviews”) is all about simplifying your podcasting and helping you engage your audience and grow your podcast!

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Riverside.Fm 

In this episode of Podtastic Audio, I have the pleasure of chatting with Kevin Chemidlin, creator of Grow the Show, a podcast dedicated to helping podcasters thrive. Kevin shares his journey from launching the successful show "Philly Who" to building a platform that teaches podcasters how to grow and monetize effectively. Whether you're looking to expand your audience, keep listeners coming back, or make money from your show, this episode is packed with actionable advice. Discover why many podcasters mistakenly believe they have a growth problem, the critical importance of retention, and how to create a sustainable content strategy. Kevin also introduces his Podcast Ladder framework, a step-by-step guide to creating a successful podcast that grows and generates revenue. Tune in for expert insights, practical tips, and a refreshing perspective on what it really takes to succeed in podcasting.

Key Takeaways

• Why Retention Matters: Most podcasters don't have a growth problem—they have a retention problem. Learn how to keep your listeners coming back.
• The Podcast Ladder Framework: Four levels every podcaster must climb to achieve sustainable growth and monetization.
• The Power of a Clear and Unique Premise: Why your podcast needs to focus on what it does for the listener, not just what you do on the show.
• Growth Strategies That Work: The importance of leveraging social media, collaborations, and swaps with other podcasters.
• Understanding Monetization: Kevin breaks down how every podcast ultimately monetizes by getting listeners to buy something.
• Avoid Burnout: Why rushing to monetize can hurt your podcast's long-term potential—and what to do instead.
• Consistency Beyond Publishing: Why consistent marketing is just as important as publishing episodes regularly. This episode will leave you inspired and equipped with practical tools to grow your podcast effectively. Let us know what you think, and happy podcasting!

Timestamps / Chapters 

00:00 - Introduction and what to expect in this episode

02:06 - The biggest struggles podcasters face today

03:35 - Meet Kevin Chemidlin and his journey from Philly Who to Grow the Show

06:33 - How Kevin discovered common podcasting pain points

10:11 - Why podcasting is harder to grow compared to other platforms

18:27 - Two essential strategies to grow your podcast

33:15 - The Podcast Ladder: Four levels to podcast success

44:38 - What it really means to monetize your podcast

49:56 - Kevin's personal journey and lessons from podcasting

53:13 - Final thoughts and where to find Kevin Chemidlin's resources

54:23 - Outro and next steps for your podcast journey

Podgagement® (formerly “My Podcast Reviews”) is all about simplifying your podcasting and helping you engage your audience and grow your podcast!

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In this eye-opening episode of Podtastic Audio, I’m diving into the underbelly of podcasting scams and sharing everything I wish I’d known when I started. From personal stories—like my sister’s recent, gut-wrenching $15,000 loss to scammers—to the crafty tricks targeting new podcasters, this episode is packed with insights to keep your podcast and hard-earned cash safe.

I break down the major scams hitting our community, from fake “listener boost” services to phony sponsorships and sketchy guest booking offers. You’ll learn the classic red flags, the psychology behind these scams, and why legitimate growth takes time and authenticity. Plus, I’m sharing practical, scam-free strategies to help you build a successful podcast that lasts. If you’re a new or independent podcaster eager to grow, don’t miss this episode—it might just save you from becoming the next target! 

Chapters / Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction to podcasting scams targeting newcomers.

01:19 – The allure of fast podcast growth and the dangers of "too good to be true" offers.

02:01 – Personal story: my sister’s $15,000 scam experience.

03:24 – Breaking down how scammers pressure with urgency and fear tactics.

08:01 – Recognizing general scam tactics and emotional manipulation.

10:25 – Fake listener boost services: How they lure podcasters and the risks involved.

13:39 – Emphasizing that podcast growth takes time and dedication.

14:25 – Bogus sponsorship offers and red flags to identify them.

17:22 – Why legitimate sponsors don't ask for personal financial details.

19:14 – Guest booking scams targeting new podcasters.

21:59 – Avoiding payment requests for guest appearances.

24:01 – Promotion and marketing scams promising unrealistic reach.

27:24 – Practical, genuine strategies for promoting your podcast.

30:09 – Final tips on verifying offers and avoiding scams in podcasting.

Podgagement® (formerly “My Podcast Reviews”) is all about simplifying your podcasting and helping you engage your audience and grow your podcast!

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Riverside.Fm 

In this episode of Podtastic Audio, I talk with voice actor and audio branding expert Jodi Krangle. From AI voices to social media strategy, Jodi shares key insights every podcaster needs to know. Highlights include:

• Sound Quality Essentials: Why leveling audio is crucial and how it impacts listener retention.
• AI vs. Human Voices: The unique connection human voices bring to teaching and branding.
• Budget Microphone Tips: Affordable gear and setup tricks for pro-quality sound.
• Voice Warm-Ups: Simple techniques, like green apples for reducing mouth noise.
• Smart Social Media: Why audiograms are out, and video snippets with captions are in.
• Marketing Tactics: Tips on promoting through Buzzsprout ads, cross-promos, and reaching new listeners.
• Authentic Podcasting Voice: How to make your voice relatable and engaging for a lasting audience connection.

Join us for Jodi’s expert advice to help you create a podcast that sounds professional and builds a loyal audience!

Jodi Krangle Voice Over

The Audio Branding Podcast

Timestamps / Chapters 

00:00 – Introduction: Chris sets the stage, introducing the episode’s focus on sound quality and practical podcasting tips.

02:43 – Guest Introduction: Meet Jodi Krangle, voice actor and audio branding expert, with a background working with top brands.

05:17 – AI vs. Human Voices: Jodi shares insights on why human voices create a deeper connection than AI in learning and branding.

11:10 – Audio Branding Essentials: The importance of investing in quality sound to reflect professionalism and retain listeners.

17:04 – Microphone Tips on a Budget: Affordable mic recommendations and setup tricks to improve sound quality.

24:59 – Voice Warm-Up Techniques: Jodi’s essential warm-up tips, including staying hydrated and using green apples to reduce mouth noise.

31:53 – Effective Social Media Promotion: Why audiograms are losing relevance and how to use video snippets for promotion.

43:12 – Podcast Marketing Tips: Strategies for promoting your show through Buzzsprout ads, cross-promos, and collaborations.

51:18 – Episode Swaps and Feed Swaps: Chris and Jodi discuss the benefits and challenges of swapping episodes across podcast feeds.

54:02 – YouTube for Podcasts: Jodi’s take on leveraging YouTube for discoverability, even if video isn’t your primary format.

Podgagement® (formerly “My Podcast Reviews”) is all about simplifying your podcasting and helping you engage your audience and grow your podcast!

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Have you ever thought about what happens to your voice from the moment you hit ‘record’ to when it finally reaches your listener’s ears? In this episode of Podtastic Audio, I’m walking you through the full audio journey, covering everything from picking the right mic to editing tricks that make your podcast sound pro. We’ll dive into handling background noise, boosting your sound quality with EQ and compression, and making sure your show sounds great on any device—whether it’s earbuds, car speakers, or even an old-school radio. So if you’re ready to level up your podcast sound, let’s get into it!

• Choosing between dynamic and condenser mics (and why it matters)
• Setting up a quiet recording space and reducing background noise
• Boosting sound quality with EQ, noise reduction, and compression
• Ensuring consistent sound across all devices—whether it’s earbuds, car speakers, or an old-school stereo
• Exporting your audio in the best format for listeners

Chapters/Timestamps

00:00 - Intro: The Journey of Sound from Mic to Earbuds

01:17 - Understanding Audio Path from Microphone to Listener

02:30 - Audio Recording Myths and Realities for Podcasters

03:09 - Starting with Clear Sound: Tips on Volume and Annunciation

04:24 - Managing Background Noise and Room Setup

06:49 - Choosing the Right Microphone: Dynamic vs. Condenser

10:59 - Why Dynamic Mics Suit Indie Podcasters

14:26 - The Role of Pre-Amps and Analog to Digital Conversion

17:21 - Setting Input Levels for Clear Sound

19:15 - Editing and Processing: Noise Reduction, EQ, and Compression

24:13 - Exporting Your Audio: Choosing the Right File Format

28:57 - Testing Playback Across Different Devices

30:19 - Ensuring Consistent Sound for Every Listener's Device

31:35 - Closing Remarks and Happy Podcasting Tips

Podgagement® (formerly “My Podcast Reviews”) is all about simplifying your podcasting and helping you engage your audience and grow your podcast!

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In this episode of Podtastic Audio, we explore how adding timestamps and chapters can elevate your podcast or YouTube content. Discover a simple but powerful trick to increase listener engagement, especially for longer episodes. We break down what timestamps are, how to create them, and the benefits they offer for both podcasters and their audience. Whether you're looking to improve your podcast's structure, help listeners re-engage with your content, or even boost SEO for your YouTube videos, this episode has you covered. Tune in to learn practical tips for applying timestamps across various platforms and why they’re essential for keeping your audience hooked.

• Why episode structure matters for keeping listeners engaged.
• What are timestamps and chapters in podcasts and videos.
• 6 benefits of using timestamps, including better engagement and easier navigation.
• Why long episodes need timestamps to help listeners find key moments.
• How to add timestamps for free on any podcast platform or YouTube.
• Simple methods for creating timestamps during recording.
• Improving the listener experience by giving them options to skip to the parts they want.

This episode is ideal for podcasters looking to keep their audience engaged and make their content easier to navigate.

Timestamps / Chapters

00:00 – Introduction: Why your podcast needs better structure

00:18 – Welcome to Podtastic Audio

00:33 – Show intro and today's topic overview

01:07 – Why you should use timestamps to engage your audience

01:56 – Benefits of timestamps for long episodes

03:00 – What are timestamps and chapters in podcasts?

04:09 – How to create and place timestamps effectively

05:26 – Why listeners skip around in podcasts

06:42 – Respecting listeners' time and why it's crucial

08:02 – Listening speeds and maintaining natural audio flow

09:52 – 6 Key benefits of using timestamps in your content

15:40 – Creating timestamps for Spotify and Apple Podcasts

18:55 – Setting up timestamps for YouTube videos

21:19 – Simple ways to capture timestamps during recording

22:57 – When and why to use timestamps for long episodes

24:02 – Final thoughts on the benefits of timestamps for engagement

25:48 – Wrap-up and closing remarks

Podgagement® (formerly “My Podcast Reviews”) is all about simplifying your podcasting and helping you engage your audience and grow your podcast!

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Riverside.Fm 

Welcome back to Podtastic Audio! In today’s episode, I dive into the rise of AI in podcasting and its potential impact on the future of our beloved medium. From tools like ChatGPT that help me craft episode titles and show notes to Google's experimental Notebook LM, which can create entire podcasts from scratch, AI is everywhere.

I talk about my experiences with these tools, how they’ve helped me improve my workflow, and the growing concern over the flood of AI-generated content. We’ll explore the dangers of fake podcasts, how platforms like ListenNotes are fighting back, and what it means for indie podcasters like us.

Stick around as I even throw some of my own content into Google Notebook LM and see what happens when a fake AI-generated podcast reviews my show! Plus, I’ll share tips on how to make your podcast stand out in this new AI-driven world.

Don't miss this deep dive into the intersection of AI and podcasting – and trust me, it's going to be a wild ride! Podtastic Audio YouTube

Chapters/Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction: AI in Podcasting and What It Means for Us

01:17 – Shoutout to Riverside.fm: The Ultimate Podcasting Tool

02:41 – My Experience with AI Tools Like ChatGPT

06:13 – Exploring Google Notebook LM: What It Can Do for Podcasters

10:05 – The Dangers of Fake AI-Generated Podcasts

13:40 – Live Demonstration: AI-Generated Podcast Reviews My Show

19:21 – How AI Affects Podcast Marketing and Discoverability

24:09 – Final Thoughts: How to Stay Authentic and Thrive as an Indie Podcaster in an AI-Driven World

26:34 – Wrap-Up: How Are You Using AI in Your Podcast? Let’s Connect!

Podgagement® (formerly “My Podcast Reviews”) is all about simplifying your podcasting and helping you engage your audience and grow your podcast!

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Riverside.Fm 

Hey podcasters, welcome back to Podtastic Audio! Today’s episode is all about making your podcasting life easier and way more fun. I’ve been working on something special just for you – two new tools that will completely change how you plan your episodes and interview guests. I’m talking about Show Planner and Interview Storyteller, both designed to help you create amazing content effortlessly.

In this episode, I’ll break down exactly how these tools work and how they can help take your show to the next level. If you’ve ever struggled with episode planning or getting your guests to open up and share great stories, these tools are the game-changers you’ve been waiting for.

Here’s what you’ll discover:

• How Show Planner builds a detailed, personalized episode outline in minutes, saving you hours of prep time.
• The magic of Interview Storyteller: the tool that helps you ask the right questions to get your guests to tell those engaging, emotion-filled stories.
• A live demo of both tools in action, showing you how to craft an episode and get your guests talking like never before.
• Why I created these tools to help indie podcasters like you succeed – no sales funnel, just genuine help!

Whether you're running a solo show or interviewing guests, these tools will streamline your process and make your episodes sound more professional and engaging. So hit play and let’s dive into these game-changing tools for your podcast!

Timestamps/Chapters

00:00 - Welcome and Intro: I kick off the episode and introduce today’s tools for podcasters.

00:39 - Why Sound Matters: I talk about why good audio quality is crucial for your podcast.

02:01 - Why I Started Podtastic Audio: I share the reason behind starting this show.

06:01 - Introducing Show Planner: I explain how Show Planner helps you plan your episodes.

07:21 - Show Planner Demo: I give a live demo on how to create an episode outline.

10:28 - Introducing Interview Storyteller: I introduce the tool for getting better guest stories.

11:45 - Interview Storyteller Demo: I walk through how to create engaging interview questions.

14:12 - Importance of Storytelling: I discuss why storytelling is key for keeping your audience engaged.

15:55 - Sample Questions: I share examples of questions to help your guests tell great stories.

19:10 - Final Thoughts: I wrap up my thoughts on both tools and their benefits.

20:33 - How to Access the Tools: I explain how you can start using these tools for free.

21:13 - Outro and CTA: I close the episode and encourage you to check out the tools and keep podcasting.

Podgagement® (formerly “My Podcast Reviews”) is all about simplifying your podcasting and helping you engage your audience and grow your podcast!

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Thanks so much for listening, I really appreciate it so much. Sign up for my newsletter so you never miss a moment. Podtastic Audio Newsletter

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