Pump Up Your Pod

It's a special day for me—my birthday! 🎉 And what better way to celebrate than combining two of my loves: music and microphones? So, join me on this little auditory adventure as we dive into some budget-friendly microphone options that are perfect for vocalists. 

I've gathered a selection of XLR and USB microphones, a lineup that includes the SE DCM8, SE Neom, Rode NT USB Mini, Rode PodMic (in both USB and XLR formats), and the Shure MV7 (also in both formats). My goal? To sing a section of one of my unfinished songs and see which microphone captures my voice with the best clarity and tone.

00:00 Birthday Excitement and Favorite Gifts

00:41 Microphone Testing Plan

02:03 Microphone Lineup and Song Performance

03:40 Microphone Reviews and Impressions

09:52 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:

Podcast Content Calendar

Book A Consultation

Free Podcast Audit Service

YouTube Channel

GEAR WE USED TO MAKE THIS EPISODE:

SE DynaCaster DCM8

Rode PodMic:

Shure MV7

SE Neom

NT-USB Mini:

Rode Boom Arm

XLR Cables

Sony ZV E10

Elgato Camlink

Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light

Aputure Light Box Min

Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend

Focusrite Clarett+

Rode Streamer X

Rodecaster Pro II

Rodecaster Pro Duo

If I were to start a podcast in 2025, here's exactly what I'd do, drawing from my decade of experience as the head honcho of Bamby Media. We've launched nearly 500 shows, so I've learned a thing or two about what works in this ever-evolving industry. Whether you're a seasoned content creator or just dipping your toes into the podcasting world, these tips will help you make your mark. 

00:00 Introduction and Credentials

00:30 Essential Equipment: Microphone and Boom Arm

01:41 Planning Your Content: 50 Topic Ideas

02:13 Audio vs. Video: Making the Choice

03:09 Promoting Your Podcast: Social Media and More

04:03 Batch Recording: Scheduling and Consistency

04:47 Podcast Artwork: First Impressions Matter

05:33 Getting Help: Launch Packages and Support

07:14 Defining Your Unique Value

08:30 Monetization: Offerings from Day One

09:41 Outsourcing Editing: Focus on Content

11:07 Choosing a Hosting Platform

11:48 Final Steps: Releasing and Focusing on Quality

BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:

Podcast Content Calendar

Book A Consultation

Free Podcast Audit Service

YouTube Channel

GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:

SE Dyncaster DCM8

Rode Boom Arm

XLR Cables

Sony ZV E10

Elgato Camlink

Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light

Aputure Light Box Min

Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend

Focusrite Clarett+

Rode Streamer X

Rodecaster Pro II

Rodecaster Pro Duo

Today I’m taking you behind-the-scenes to the inner workings of Bamby Media throughout 2024. I reflect on the year's pros and cons, discuss the impact of AI on podcast production, and explore how smoother processes and systems contributed to a calm work environment. I also take a look at personal achievements, challenges with software, and the effects of AI-generated podcasts. 

Additionally, the episode touches upon the significance of the Bamby Media YouTube channel, free podcast audits, and team upskilling. We round off with future aspirations and the new studio space that is coming in 2025.

00:00 Introduction and Unexpected Challenges

02:12 Reflections on 2024: Pros

02:20 The Impact of AI on Our Workflow

03:33 Calmer Year and Improved Processes

05:52 Personal Growth and New Ventures

06:53 YouTube Channel Success

08:21 Client Engagement and New Services

09:13 Team Development and Training

12:40 Travel and Industry Recognition

14:15 Significant Client Growth

16:25 Cons and Areas for Improvement

22:38 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:

Podcast Content Calendar

Book A Consultation

Free Podcast Audit Service

YouTube Channel

GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:

SE Dyncaster DCM8

Rode Boom Arm

XLR Cables

Sony ZV E10

Elgato Camlink

Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light

Aputure Light Box Min

Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend

Focusrite Clarett+

Rode Streamer X

Rodecaster Pro II

Rodecaster Pro Duo

I take a look at Spotify's recent announcement of their rebrand to 'Spotify for Creators' for podcasters and its impact on audio podcasting. I review the new monetization requirements on Spotify, comparing them with YouTube's more lenient YouTube Creator Program and monetisation options for audio-only shows.

I discuss the potential shift towards video podcasting, the challenges smaller creators may face, and the different revenue models of Spotify and YouTube. Featuring insights from an interview with Spotify CEO Daniel Elk that Colin and Samir did on their podcast, we'll examine the pros and cons of Spotify's approach and what it means for the future of podcasting.

Resources Mentioned:

Colin and Samir interview Daniel Ek

Spotify for Creators

Captivate

Spotify Revenue Share

Imgur

BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:

Podcast Content Calendar

Book A Consultation

Free Podcast Audit Service

YouTube Channel

GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:

SE Dyncaster DCM8

Rode Boom Arm

XLR Cables

Sony ZV E10

Elgato Camlink

Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light

Aputure Light Box Min

Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend

Focusrite Clarett+

Rode Streamer X

Rodecaster Pro II

Rodecaster Pro Duo

As the festive season approaches, the question of whether to take a break from releasing podcast episodes over Christmas and New Year often looms large, especially for podcasters. 

It's a time when many are eager to unwind, enjoy family time, and perhaps forget about their usual routines. But is a break the best move for your podcast? I’ve trawled through the data we collect from our own client roster and the podcasting industry more broadly to give you my take.

Podcasting is an evolving and growing medium, drawing people away from algorithm-driven platforms to more meaningful interactions with the content they love. By staying consistent, especially over the Christmas period, you'll be ready to leap into the New Year, taking advantage of the increased listener engagement. 

I hope this gives you the clarity and confidence to keep those episodes rolling, even through the holiday season. I know it’s a lot of work, and I also appreciate that you simply might need a break.

It’s okay if you don’t take my advice and instead fall in a heap for a couple of weeks. I get it.

At the end of the day, it’s your show so you can do whatever you want. That’s the beauty of the medium. I’m just here to give you a bit of a push if you’re open to it.

Resources Mentioned:

PodPoll - Deadset Studios

Podcast Landscape 2024 - Sounds Profitable

The Podcast Election - Scott Galloway

BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:

Podcast Content Calendar

Book A Consultation

Free Podcast Audit Service

YouTube Channel

GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:

SE Dyncaster DCM8

Rode Boom Arm

XLR Cables

Sony ZV E10

Elgato Camlink

Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light

Aputure Light Box Min

Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend

Focusrite Clarett+

Rode Streamer X

Rodecaster Pro II

Rodecaster Pro Duo

As the wireless microphone offerings expand, so does my need to review them. Traditionally, the wireless microphone space was a bit lacklustre. They had clunky receivers that you had to try to hide under your clothes, the connections would drop out and the ability to connect seamlessly to a smartphone was rare.

Today, that is no longer the case. 

We’ve got Rode, DJI, Hollyland and Sennheiser as well as many others all putting their hats into the ring and today I’m putting the DJI Mic 2 to the test.

As a podcast producer with over 60 clients globally, I'm always on the hunt for audio and video equipment that can simplify our client workflow while delivering top-notch quality. If you're in the same boat, or perhaps just curious about whether this kit holds its ground against competitors like the Rode Wireless Pro, keep reading.

I've spent the last month and a half putting the DJI Mic 2 through its paces across a variety of environments—from the roaring waves of the beach, to the tranquil hinterland of Byron Bay, and within the confines of my home studio. My aim? To see how this system performs under different conditions and with varying sound profiles.

BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:

Book A Consultation

Free Podcast Audit Service

YouTube Channel

Apply to Join PodCoach

GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:

DJI Mic 2

sE Neom

SE Dyncaster DCM8

Rode Boom Arm

XLR Cables

Sony ZV E10

Elgato Camlink

Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light

Aputure Light Box Min

Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend

Focusrite Clarett+

Rode Streamer X

Rodecaster Pro II

Rodecaster Pro Duo

In the words of Mariah Carey, “All I Want For Christmas Is…Microphones”.

I’m sure when she originally sang “you”, Mariah was actually thinking about a particular microphone that she had her eye on. Perhaps swooning over a rather special condenser microphone that highlights the sparkly frequencies in her voice.

It’s plausible and I won’t let you tell me otherwise. I am not being ridiculous.

Today we’re jumping into an extensive list of podcasting equipment to help you stop analysing all the potential options that are available on the market, and just purchase something already.

I hope it helps!

BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:

Book A Consultation

YouTube Channel

Apply to Join PodCoach

GEAR I MENTIONED:

Rode NT USB Mini

SE Neom

USB/XLR Hybrid Microphones:

Rode PodMic USB XLR

Shure MV7+

XLR Microphones:

SE DCM8

Shure SM7dB:

Going Wireless

Rode Wireless Pro

Cables & Accessories

Mogami

Rode

Elgato

Pre-Amps

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen

Rodecaster Duo

Rodecaster Pro II

Stands & Arms

Rode PSA1

Elgato Wave

Headphones: An Essential

Audio Technica ATH M20X

Beyerdynamic DT 990

Cameras & Visual Equipment

Sony ZV E10 Mk II

Elgato Cam Link

micro to HDMI

Webcams:

Elgato Facecam Pro

Insta360 Link 2

Lighting Options

Aputure Amaran 200X combined with a Light Dome Mini

Elgato Key Light Air

SmallRig stands

Oh my, do I have a lovely microphone to show you today! 

The sE Neom microphone presents an intriguing option for podcasters seeking USB-only solutions. 

With its distinct design, on-brand red meshing, gunmetal colouring and unique features, the sE Neom aims to carve out a niche in a crowded USB microphone market. 

I have been testing this microphone now for about 6 months in a variety of locations and use cases. As a podcaster myself and a producer of over 50 podcasts, I’m always looking for microphones to recommend to my community.

So I decided to put this one to the test. 

Thanks to Chris from Sound-Music for sending me this microphone! They’re a great bunch of humans based out of Melbourne who distribute the best gear to audio/production stores around Australia.

—

00:00 Introduction to SE Neom Microphone

00:31 Microphone Features and Controls

01:59 Sound Quality and Pop Filter Issues

04:08 Microphone Performance in Different Settings

06:13 Proximity Effect and Singing Test

09:14 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

11:23 Conclusion and Upcoming Comparisons

BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:

Book A Consultation

Free Podcast Audit Service

YouTube Channel

Apply to Join PodCoach

GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:

sE Neom

SE Dyncaster DCM8

Rode Boom Arm

XLR Cables

Sony ZV E10

Elgato Camlink

Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light

Aputure Light Box Min

Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend

Focusrite Clarett+

Rode Streamer X

Rodecaster Pro II

Rodecaster Pro Duo

I used to be quasi-famous. 

It was a long time ago and not a place I particularly want to revisit, but as I reflected on how I built Bamby Media into the successful business it is today, there has been one key ingredient.

An unfair advantage.

This podcast episode is my origin story. I hope you enjoy it.

BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:

Book A Consultation

Free Podcast Audit Service

YouTube Channel

Apply to Join PodCoach

GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:

SE Dyncaster DCM8

Rode Boom Arm

XLR Cables

Sony ZV E10

Elgato Camlink

Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light

Aputure Light Box Min

Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend

Focusrite Clarett+

Rode Streamer X

Rodecaster Pro II

Rodecaster Pro Duo

Have you ever wondered what it's like to listen to 200 AI-generated podcasts? 

“No. That’s ridiculous. Why would anyone do that?” I hear you say. 

I’m flaky on the “why” myself, but the thing is, I did it and those are hours of my life I will never get back.

I listened to 200 fake podcasts generated with NotebookLM to see for myself whether the podcasting industry is about to come crumbling down.

Although I went slightly insane throughout this experience, I feel it was well worth it. I definitely never want to hear the phrase “deep dive” again, but other than that I’ve ventured out of this mess mostly unscathed.

00:00 Introduction: Overwhelmed by AI Podcasts

00:32 The Rise of AI-Generated Podcasts

02:32 Deep Dive into AI Podcast Content

03:23 The Banter and Repetition Problem

04:49 Lack of Authenticity in AI Hosts

07:55 Potential and Future of AI Podcasts

10:13 Conclusion: Final Thoughts on AI Podcasts

BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:

Book A Consultation

Free Podcast Audit Service

YouTube Channel

Apply to Join PodCoach

GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:

SE Dyncaster DCM8

Rode Boom Arm

XLR Cables

Sony ZV E10

Elgato Camlink

Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light

Aputure Light Box Min

Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend

Focusrite Clarett+

Rode Streamer X

Rodecaster Pro II

Rodecaster Pro Duo