School of Podcasting: Expert Tips for Launching and Growing Your Podcast

When it comes to podcast strategies to grow your podcast, one strategy that often gets overlooked (because it takes time) is Search Engine Optimization (SEO). Now people are starting to market a "New" thing known as PSO (Podcast Search Optimization).

So what is the difference? In reality not much. Tools like Podseo and PSO and Ausha show you information on how often keywords are being search in Apple and Spotify (and others). SEO tools show what people are searching for in Google and other places (YouTube, TikTok, and more).

So THE question is, do people search differently in a Podcast App vs how they search Google? For me, I don't think so. I might just type a keyword "Podcasting Best Practices" where in Google I would type "Podcasting Best Practices Podcast."

Find a keyword that has a fair number of people searching for (somewhere between 20-100 searches), and see how much competition it has. Instead of trying to score for a really popular keyword, score multiple times with less popular (but still be sought after) key words with less competition. Mom said "Don't go play in traffic," but that's what you need to do - but no on the free way.

SEMRush (a great suite of tools) has a domain authority checker.

Free Keyword Tool (That Sucks IMHO)

https://www.wordstream.com/keywords

Google Keyword Tool (Inside of Adsense Account)

https://ads.google.com

Go to Tools > Planning > Keyword Planner (Free and unlimited use)

Keywords Everywhere

Extension for Chrome and Firefox $7/month. Helps you measure traffic and competition for keywords.

https://keywordseverywhere.com/

Also Asked (see what people are asking)

1 Free search a Day or $12/month

https://alsoasked.com/

Answer Socrates

3 searches a day

$15/month gets you 100 searches a month

https://answersocrates.com

Ubsersuggest

Shows key word competition and more. It's a suite of tools to help find keywords, and write articles.$29/month.$290 Lifetime (credits thanks to AI)

https://ubersuggest.com

SERanking

A full suite of tools that helps you create content, competitor comparisons and more. $129/month

https://www.sewranking.com

SEMRUSH

Consider by many people to be "THE" suite of SEO tools (especially finding tools that your competitor is not using, and you should). $139/month

https://www.semrush.com

Page Audit Chrome Extension

A chrome extension that shows all sorts of information about a page so you can then write a similar page that will rank better.

Chrome Extension

Two Tools Dedicated For Podcast SEO

While I'm not sure there is much difference between SEO and PSO, there two tools dedicated for podcasts.

PSO from Ausha

This tool has some nice features, but it also left me frustrated. If you give me seven days to test the tool, give me access to ALL OF IT. I mean every marketer knows that you give it to the customer and let them "get hooked" so when their trial is over they will purchase.

I couldn't do that as much of the tools spotlighted required me to upgrade. Boo.

That being said it does show how much a keyword is searched for (not as specific as some tools for web seo). It also shows you how hard to competition is.

Keep in mind that you need to give your dashboard 24 hours to show some statistics in your dashboard.

Ausha PSO (affiliate)

PodSEO

This is from Andrea De Marsi (Co-founder of Spreaker) and Francesco Baschieri (Co-founder of Spreaker) and it has a similar feature set to the ausha tool.

You can save 10% using the coupon schoolofpodcasting. (affiliate)

I thought it was very cool that Podseo alerted me to the mistake that I had accidentally listed my show twice in Spotify (I moved from Libsyn to Captivate - nuff said).

It has some cool episode planners, and is cheaper than Ausha PSO. Their AI tools looks at your episodes and recommend future ideas and then helps you plan them, and has a calendar showing when the episodes were released.

They also can send you daily updates on your rankings or your competition.

Check it out at podseo.com and use the coupon schoolofpodcasting to save 10%

Paul is a huge theater nerd, and loves the musical Chess. There was a version that was awful, but never got to see it. Then he let a library in NYC know he was a podcaster. Then he got access to videos that the public hasn't seen - because he had a podcast. Check out Paul at https://podcastpartnership.com/

Turn AI Into Your Personal Podcast Analyst! on Buzzcast

SEO for People Who Don't Like SEO Podcast

Podpage - Websites for Podcasters

Captivate - AI Tools Help You Choose Episode Topics

Oura Ring - Body Measurement via a Ring

Just One Tip Podcast

Big Lash Energy Episode 201

Big Lash Interview on Last Week's Episode

This content may contain affiliate links, meaning I earn a small commission if you purchase through these links at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products or services I trust and believe will provide value to you. Thank you for your support!

Mentioned in this episode:

Question of the Month: The Smallest Amount of Downloads

We all want a bigger audience. We all put a lot of work into our shows. With this in mind, what is the smallest amount of downloads you would do the show for? If it drops below a number would you stop, or put effort into finding out why?

School of Podcasting

Want to Make Some Money with Your Podcast?

Pick up any book on podcast monetization, and you will find 90 percent of it only covers how to launch a podcast. If you already have a podcast, you have that information; you’re ready for the next step. Profit from Your Podcast provides top strategies and real-life examples of podcast monetization. This book is more than what to do. It also tells you how to do it.

Profit From Your Podcast

Welcome to the world of Big Lash Energy, where Jayna Marie takes us on a no-holds-barred journey through the ups and downs of her life and career. As a makeup artist, Jayna decided that her life was too colorful not to share, and she jumped headfirst into podcasting.

It's like she hit the ground running, with tons of awards, 200 episodes, and one million downloads you might say she's unstoppable.

The conversation kicks off with Jayna reflecting on the pressure to include video in her podcasting journey, but she confidently asserts that real connection comes from authentic storytelling, not flashy visuals. It’s refreshing to hear someone challenge the norm and embrace the art of audio storytelling.

As the episode unfolds, Jayna shares her experiences with vulnerability, especially in her first episode, where she bared her soul and laid it all on the line. She describes it as feeling like she jumped off a cliff, and honestly, who hasn’t felt that way about sharing their truth? This episode dives into the nitty-gritty of her life, tackling topics that range from relationships to personal growth, all while maintaining a sense of humor that makes you feel like you're chatting with a friend over coffee.

Jayna emphasizes the importance of being relatable and not shying away from difficult topics, making for a conversation that is both entertaining and enlightening. What really makes Jayna stand out is her approach to audience engagement.

She’s built a loyal following by sharing snippets of her life and encouraging conversations around her podcast episodes. Jayna is all about creating that connection with her listeners, which is a breath of fresh air in a sea of cookie-cutter AI content. And let’s not forget her unique marketing tactics; she even uses dating apps to promote her podcast, turning the world of swiping into a strategic move for gaining listeners. It’s hilarious and clever, showing us that sometimes, the best marketing is just being yourself.

This episode isn’t just about podcasting; it’s about authenticity, vulnerability, and the power of storytelling. If you’re looking for inspiration in your own podcasting journey, or just want a good laugh, tune in to hear Jayna Marie's incredible story and the lessons she’s learned along the way.

So whether you're a seasoned podcaster or just curious about what it takes to create a meaningful show, Jayna's insights are golden. She proves that podcasting is more than just a hobby; it’s a way to connect, share, and inspire others through your unique voice. Join us as we delve into the world of Big Lash Energy and discover what makes Jayna Marie a standout in the podcasting community. It's a wild ride, and you won't want to miss it.

Big Lash Energy Podcast

Under the Makeup: A very Messy Life (Episode 1)

Faking the "OH!" Face

8 Super Annoying Things That Men Do

I Ran Out Of Time To Say I Love You: It's My Party, I'll Cry If I Want To (her latest episode as of this recording)

Jayna's Makeup Site & Instagram

Sticker Mule (For Car Decals)

Switchy QR Maker, Link Tracker, and "Linktree" type tool

Fourth Wall Create Merch

Podpage Pretty Websites For Podcasters Who Don't Want To Learn How To Code

Tim Wohlberg's Just the Tip Podcast

Lead with vulnerability and authenticity

Sharing your true self and personal stories draws in listeners and forges real connections.

Serve your audience with purpose

Focus on providing value for others and fill gaps you wish someone had filled for you.

Don’t overthink—trust your gut and put your work out there

Creativity thrives when you let go of perfectionism and follow your instincts.

Make sure every episode has a clear purpose

Aim for your episodes to make listeners laugh, cry, or learn—give them a reason to engage.

Prioritize storytelling and strong writing

Compelling, well-crafted stories are at the heart of a great podcast.

Break up solo shows with production elements

Use sound effects, music, and character voices to keep solo episodes interesting and dynamic.

Collaborate closely with your editor

Build a strong partnership for creative sound design and production ideas.

Release episodes on a consistent schedule

Consistency builds trust and keeps your audience coming back.

Build and engage a community

Foster relationships with listeners to create fierce loyalty and word-of-mouth promotion.

Be intentional about monetization and ads

Consider whether monetizing with ads fits your brand and your listeners’ experience.

Leverage your podcast to support your main business

Use your show to help connect with potential clients in your field.

Save and revisit listener feedback

Keep encouraging messages for motivation during challenging times.

Create desirable merch—only sell what you’d wear

Strong branding and personal endorsement make merchandise more appealing.

Be creative with your marketing strategies:

Utilize unconventional ideas, such as:

Sharing your podcast link in dating bios

Setting up at relevant trade shows

Distributing podcast cards in swag bags with recommended episodes

Branding your car with podcast info and QR codes

Track your promotional results

Use QR codes to measure the effectiveness of your offline marketing efforts.

Encourage value-for-value support

Make it easy for loyal listeners to give back, whether buying merch or donating.

Host in-person events for your audience

Create memorable live gatherings to deepen connections and increase social media buzz.

Promote episodes long after release with social posts

Share throwbacks, listener DMs, and topical connections on your stories to boost ongoing downloads.

Show your creative process on social media

Build anticipation for new episodes and keep your audience actively engaged.

Know your target audience and stay on-brand

Be clear about who your podcast is for, and let that clarity reflect in your branding.

Prepare thoroughly before launching

Study podcasting fundamentals, plan your content, and understand your desired audience.

Don’t share every story—wait until you know the lesson

Only open up about painful moments when you’re ready to share how you grew from them.

Understand podcasting is hard work—stay motivated

Celebrate the impact you have, and let your listeners’ appreciation keep you going

Always Research Your Guest (from Dave)

The question AI gave me to interview Jayna were nothing compared to the questions that came up after I listened to her show.

Mentioned in this episode:

Have You Heard About the Podpage Assistant?

Here's what it can do:

Podpage

Question of the Month: The Smallest Amount of Downloads

We all want a bigger audience. We all put a lot of work into our shows. With this in mind, what is the smallest amount of downloads you would do the show for? If it drops below a number would you stop, or put effort into finding out why?

School of Podcasting

Black Friday Podcasting Sepcial

Hey, podcast creators! Are you ready to take your podcast to the next level? We have an unbeatable deal just for you!

Podcast Hotseat

In this episode, I tackled the question submitted by Emily Kate: What sacrifices and shortcuts did you take in your podcasting journey, and did they work out well? A fantastic lineup of podcasters shared their wisdom, experiences, and favorite tools. Here’s an organized list of all the contributors with their URLs, plus every resource/tool we mentioned to help you on your own podcasting path.

1. Emily Kate :

emilykatecreative.com

1. Kim Newlove ("The Pharmacist’s Voice" & "Perrysburg Podcast")

thepharmacistsvoice.com

perrysburgpodcast.com

1. Ralph ("Ask Ralph Media Network")

askralph.com

Includes shows: Financially Confident Christian, Grit and Growth Business, Truth Unveiled with Ralph, Content Creators Accountant

1. Todd the Gator ("Guardian Down Roundtable")

guardiandowncast.com

1. Krista Lawley & Mark ("Practical Prepping Podcast")

practicalprepping.info

1. Otter.ai – Transcription tool
2. Bitly – Link shortener/tracker/QR Code Creator
3. Switchy – Link shortener/tracker/QR code creator (one time payment)
4. Steve Stewart’s Podcast Editor Finder Form
5. Podcast Editors Academy
6. Auphonic – Audio processing & AI audio editing
7. Audacity – Audio editing software
8. OBS (Open Broadcaster Software)
9. Descript – Audio editing & AI tool
10. Resound.fm – De-um tool & audio editing
11. AppSumo – Deals platform (referenced for AI tools)
12. Castmagic – AI show notes & content creation
13. Podpage – Podcast website builder
14. Music Radio Creative – Jingles, music, and audio branding
15. Suno – AI-generated jingles/music
16. Ecamm Live – Live streaming & recording software (Mac only)
17. Alec Johnson / One Take Productions Ecamm Live Masterclass
18. Magi – AI aggregation tool
19. Voice Regen - AI Audio Clean Up Tool
20. The Audacity to Podcast
21. The Podcasters Roundtable
22. Podcasters Studio

Mentioned in this episode:

Podpage is Now Included with Blubrry Hosting

Blubrry Podcasting — one of the longest-running podcast hosting platforms in the industry — has chosen Podpage to replace their built-in website tool entirely. That means every Blubrry hosting customer gets a professional, automatically updated podcast website powered by Podpage, included with their hosting plan.

Podpage

Podcast Hot Seat - Now Private Podcast Audits

There are things your podcast is missing that often lead to you losing the audience you are attracting. I help make good podcasts GREAT. End the frustration with your podcast growth. Check out the Podcast Hot Seat Service Today.

Podcast Hotseat

Get Your Podcast Up and Going in Six Weeks

Dreaming of starting your own podcast but not sure where to begin? Podcasting in Six Weeks gives you a clear, step-by-step path to go from idea to launch with confidence.

Podcasting in Six Weeks

Question of the Month: The Smallest Amount of Downloads

We all want a bigger audience. We all put a lot of work into our shows. With this in mind, what is the smallest amount of downloads you would do the show for? If it drops below a number would you stop, or put effort into finding out why?

School of Podcasting

Hey, it's Dave Jackson! In this episode, Ishare my talk that I did at the National Religious Broadcasters (NRB) about video podcasting. What are the real benefits, the costs, and the drawbacks? I also tackled the recent Apple announcement about HLS video, shared my NRB event experience, and got into some real stats and stories about YouTube and podcasting.

This episode uses chapters to enable you to jump to the most important parts for you.

Key Topics Covered:

1. The difference between a podcast and a YouTube show
2. Stats on how many podcasters are actually doing "real" video
3. YouTube's change to how Shorts views are counted
4. Pros and cons of YouTube for discovery and monetization
5. Cost breakdowns of starting both audio and video podcasts
6. Completion percentages for audio vs video shows
7. Algorithm reality and how audience recommendations work
8. Major drawbacks of relying on video platforms for income
9. The new Apple HLS video announcement: what it means, who it's for, and whether you should care
10. Real examples of creators' experiences on YouTube

My Takeaways:

You don't have to do video if you don't want to. Video can help with discovery, but the audio side offers significantly more opportunity—sometimes a 15x larger audience! Also, while YouTube provides community and powerful analytics, the algorithm and monetization risks are real. The new Apple HLS video support is mostly about helping advertisers, not creators, and comes with new costs.

Resources & Links Mentioned:

1. School of Podcasting: schoolofpodcasting.com
2. Podcast Host Survey (Dr. Colin Gray): thepodcasthost.com
3. The Truth About ‘Video Podcasts’ on YouTube
4. These 5 Podcasters Added Video – Here’s What Happened
5. PodcastIndex stats: podcastindex.org
6. Hosting Recommendations:
7. Captivate: captivate.fm
8. Buzzsprout: buzzsprout.com
9. RSS.com: rss.com
10. Blubrry: blubrry.com
11. Think Media (YouTube demonetization video): thinkmedia.com
12. Truth Unveiled with Ralph (Ralph Eastep):
13. Sponsor Magnet book by Justin Moore:
14. Profit from Your Podcast (my book):
15. Streamline Solopreneur with Joe Casabona
16. Around the Layout (Ray)
17. Podpage (Podcast Website builder): podpage.com
18. Podnews details on Apple announcement on HLS
19. Jordan Harbinger on the New Media Show
20. Professor of Rock on AI Ruining YouTube.
21. Rob Walch talks about Club Random

Other Tools Mentioned:

1. Samson Q2U mic, Rode PodMic USB, Shure MV7 and SM7B, Audio-Technica AT897 Shotgun Condenser Microphone (mic options)
2. Elgato Facecam Pro, Sony ZV-E10 II (camera options)
3. Descript & Riverside (remote video recorders/editors)
4. Patreon & SuperCast (crowdfunding)
5. Ecamm Live (live streaming tool)
6. Inexpensive Lighting Rig

Final Thoughts:

If you want to do video, go ahead—but know the realities and risks. Don't let anyone (especially YouTube or Spotify) pressure you into it unless it suits your content and goals. And keep in mind, when Apple rolls out its new features, it’s likely to come with extra charges, so stay informed!

If you need help planning, launching, or growing your show, check out schoolofpodcasting.com and use coupon code LISTENER.

Please share the episode with a friend if you found it helpful!

Send people to www.schoolofpodcasting.com/1024

Mentioned in this episode:

Get Your Podcast Up and Going in Six Weeks

Dreaming of starting your own podcast but not sure where to begin? Podcasting in Six Weeks gives you a clear, step-by-step path to go from idea to launch with confidence.

Podcasting in Six Weeks

Want to Make Some Money with Your Podcast?

Pick up any book on podcast monetization, and you will find 90 percent of it only covers how to launch a podcast. If you already have a podcast, you have that information; you’re ready for the next step. Profit from Your Podcast provides top strategies and real-life examples of podcast monetization. This book is more than what to do. It also tells you how to do it.

Profit From Your Podcast

In this episode, I’m walking you through why great podcast editing doesn’t start with software, plugins, or secret shortcuts — it starts with knowing your audience. Once you’re crystal clear on who you’re talking to and what they value, editing becomes a lot easier: you simply remove anything that wastes their time or doesn’t deliver value.

Editing For Content

I’ll share examples from real interviews (including Amy Poehler’s “Good Hang” and conversations with my friends Daniel J. Lewis and Katie Krimitsos) to show how to tighten up questions, trim rambling answers, and keep the pace moving so your listeners stay engaged from start to finish.

If you’ve ever listened back to your show and thought, “It’s fine…but something feels off,” this one’s for you.

---

Editing starts with your audience, not your software

1. Why the first question is, “Who am I talking to and what do they want?”
2. How knowing your audience’s problems, language, and attention span guides every cut.
3. The “vegetarian at dinner” analogy: if you know who’s coming, you know what not to serve.

1. Using Amy Poehler’s friend and Jennifer Lawrence as an example of a non-answer answer.
2. How to spot when guests talk *around* a question instead of answering it.
3. When to follow up, when to re-ask more simply, and when to just fix it in the edit.

1. Trimming long-winded questions where the host gives too much backstory.
2. Shortening guest answers that wander, repeat, or add no value to the listener.
3. Why you don’t need to include your guest “thinking out loud” to get to the point.

1. How being comfortable with guests (friends, colleagues) can lead to bloated conversations.
2. Why “fun to say” isn’t the same as “valuable to hear” for your audience.
3. The discipline of deleting entire questions and answers that just don’t land.

1. Why removing bad questions is more powerful than removing ums and uhs.
2. When it makes sense to leave in human imperfections for a natural feel.
3. The mindset shift from “How do I make this cleaner?” to “How do I make this stronger?”

1. A practical order of operations: repair first, then shape the sound.
2. What plosives, noise gates, compression, EQ, and de-essers do in plain English.
3. Why “listenable” beats “perfect,” especially for guest recordings.

1. What happened when I ran intentionally bad audio through different tools.
2. How tools like Voice Regen, Auphonic, Descript Studio Sound, Adobe Enhance, and others compare in real use.
3. Why the cheap, simple option sometimes wins for everyday podcasters.

1. How hanging out where your audience hangs out (YouTube, Facebook groups, Reddit, etc.) tells you what to keep.
2. The simple question to ask of every segment: “Does this deliver value to *my* listener?”
3. How better audience understanding leads to faster editing and stronger episodes.

Editing isn’t about showing off your software skills. It’s about respecting your listener’s time. When you know exactly who they are and what they care about, the decisions of what to cut — and what to keep — almost make themselves.

This content may contain affiliate links, meaning I earn a small commission if you purchase through these links at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products or services I trust and believe will provide value to you. Thank you for your support!

School of Podcasting

Podpage

How to Pitch a Podcast Show (submit your show)

Good Hang Jennifer Lawrence Episode

Women's Mediation Network

Podchapters

Podgagement

Samson Q2U Microphone

Voice Regen from Waves

Auphonic

Descript Studio Sound

Adobe Enhance

Accentize Dxrevive Pro

Check Your Loudness at https://loudness.app/en

YouTube Demonetizing Shows (30K Goodbye!)

Big Lash Energy's Jayna Marie is Next Week.

Mentioned in this episode:

Question of the Month: The Smallest Amount of Downloads

We all want a bigger audience. We all put a lot of work into our shows. With this in mind, what is the smallest amount of downloads you would do the show for? If it drops below a number would you stop, or put effort into finding out why?

School of Podcasting

Help Us Fight Back Against Spam and Get Some Exposure

How to Pitch a Podcast is a show I'm launching that NEEDS your stories of good/bad pitches. Read your bad/good pitch (I'll remove the guilty names) and explain why it's good or bad. Then (if it's bad) explain what your perfect guest would be, tell us about your show and your website. Don't over-think it. I need your stories by 2/28 to launch. Go to pitchapodcast.com/story

Pitch a Podcast

Join the School of Podcasting

Mark from Practical Prepping had been podcasting for a while, but after joining the School of Podcasting, his podcast grew at a faster rate. His Facebook group has over 30,000 members!

School of Podcasting

Alright, so if you’re a podcaster looking to snag more listeners and get them hooked on your back catalog, then buckle up, because we’re diving into binge triggers straight outta the Netflix playbook. We’re breaking down three juicy strategies that can keep your audience glued to their headphones, even after they’ve finished your latest episode. Plus, we’ve got a heartwarming “because of my podcast” story from Ray Arnott that’ll make you believe in the magic of podcasting. So, if you're tired of people tuning in and then bouncing faster than a bad date, stick around. We’re gonna make your podcast the one they're bingeing on next!

What It Is:

An open loop is an unresolved element in your content—a question, mystery, or ongoing storyline that the listener subconsciously wants resolved. This is a storytelling technique borrowed from TV and movies: cliffhangers, subplots, or even hints about future developments that drive people to keep watching (or listening) to find out what happens next.

Examples from the Episode:

1. uses TV examples like Will Trent and Tracker:

1. In Will Trent, the ongoing subplot about the main character being disliked and saving a dog (an adaptation of the “save the cat” storytelling trope) gets the audience rooting for him, creating emotional investment through an open loop about his relationships and backstory.

1. In podcasts, an open loop could be as simple as starting a story in one episode and promising to finish it later, or introducing a mystery or a question (“Did James ever fix his solar panels?”) that’s answered in a later episode.

How To Use:

1. Tease questions (“Next week, I’ll reveal the results…”)
2. Continue a personal story arc across episodes
3. Dangle small mysteries (“I opened the door and only saw one of the three things I was looking for…”) (
4. Share journey updates that listeners want closure or progress on

What It Is:

Tease content before and after episodes to contextualize your podcast for new and returning listeners. By referencing what was discussed in previous episodes and previewing what’s coming next, you build a web of episodes that feel interconnected—just like "Next Episode" buttons on streaming platforms encourage more watching.

Examples from the Episode:

1. highlights Harry Duran’s approach:

1. The benefit is, if listeners hear a recap of a past episode or a preview of the next, they’re incentivized to explore your other episodes—bingeing your back catalog.

How To Use:

1. At the start: preview what’s happening in the current episode and what listeners missed if they haven’t heard recent content
2. At the end: teaser for the next episode (e.g., “Next week, I’m talking to…”)
3. Mention popular or related episodes (“Check out our past episode on…”)
4. Structure your season thematically, so every episode contributes to a bigger picture (e.g., a season all about podcast hardware invites listeners to hear the whole set)

What It Is:

Maintain a continuous, real-life thread running through your podcast—such as a personal project, journey, or community initiative—which encourages listeners to check back for updates and stay invested in your progress over time.

Examples from the Episode:

1. I talk about his “How to Pitch a Podcast” project:

1. He references Joanna Penn’s podcast chronicling her journey to become an independent author—listeners followed along as she learned, failed, and eventually succeeded, creating long-term engagement and rooting interest.
2. Many shows use “journey” approaches where listeners are encouraged to follow a process or transformation over time (fitness challenges, entrepreneurial launches, etc.).

How To Use:

1. Start a project or challenge and give periodic updates (“I’m launching X, here’s what happened this week…”)
2. Share personal development arcs—what you’re learning, obstacles, and milestones
3. Invite audience participation (“I need 20 submissions from you before the project goes live!”)

In summary:

1. Open loops hook listeners by leaving threads unresolved, making them want to continue and find closure.
2. Teasers and structured episode links make every episode a gateway to others in your catalog, increasing binge potential.
3. Ongoing initiatives or journeys build sustained interest by making listeners part of your process and progress.

These strategies ensure listeners don’t just drop in for a single episode—they feel compelled to stick around, binge, and become loyal fans.

Becuase of My Podcast: Ray Arnott

Ray Arnott from the Around the Layout Show (model trains) has been on the show before, and today Ray shares how a listener from Australia is paying for Ray's tripe to come to a model train meetup in Australia!

Links referenced in this episode:

1. schoolofpodcasting.com
2. pitchapodcast.com
3. aroundthelayout.com
4. podcastjunkies.com
5. newmediashow.com
6. Pet Davidson on Jimmy Fallon
7. Joe Rogan with Matt Damon and Ben Affleck
8. Save the Cat Book
9. Ray Arnott on the School of Podcasting (on finding Sponsors/Partners)

Mentioned in this episode:

Question of the Month: The Smallest Amount of Downloads

We all want a bigger audience. We all put a lot of work into our shows. With this in mind, what is the smallest amount of downloads you would do the show for? If it drops below a number would you stop, or put effort into finding out why?

School of Podcasting

Live Appearances

I loved connecting with my audience. Here are the next events I will be at:

Where Will I Be?

Unlock Exclusive Insights: Subscribe to 'Podcasting Observations' Newsletter!

Get a look into the world of podcasting like never before with "Podcasting Observations," your go-to source for trends, tips, and transformative insights tailored just for podcasters. You also get "behind the scenes" info from the School of Podcasting

Podcasting Observations

Get Your Podcast Up and Going in Six Weeks

Dreaming of starting your own podcast but not sure where to begin? Podcasting in Six Weeks gives you a clear, step-by-step path to go from idea to launch with confidence.

Podcasting in Six Weeks

I just got back from the Novel Marketing Conference. This was put on by my friend Thomas Umstattd Jr (who has a great podcast for authors). I love single track events, and this one was AMAZING. It was all about book marketing (which applies to podcasting). Only the original Podfest comes close (but that didn't feed me Schlotzky's deli Sandwiches).

I need to give credit, the "Four D's" come from Chase Replogle who does a few podcasts including the Pastor Writer, Let's Talk Bible: Kids, and he's the Pastor at Bent Oak Church. His opening keynote was AMAZING. I have adopted it for podcasters.

Main Points:

1. Single Track Conferences: I explained why single-track conferences are my favorite—you don’t miss out on sessions, and the Novel Marketing Conference was one of the best I’ve attended.
2. Opening Keynote – The Four Ds: Chase Replogle’s talk resonated with the “Four Ds”: decisiveness, discipline, discernment, and devotion—applies to both writing and podcasting. My favorite: nobody listens to what you record, they listen to what you edit (editing is magic!).
3. Marketing Parallels: Even though this was a book conference, book marketing is a close cousin to podcast marketing. The basic principles really do translate.
4. Serving Your Audience: I reflected on the courage to create, facing the fear of “what if nobody listens?”, and focusing on service and devotion to your listeners.
5. Is Your Podcast a Painkiller or a Vitamin?: Thanks to Thomas Umstattd Jr.’s talk—a “painkiller” solves a direct need, while a “vitamin” is nice to have but not urgent. Think about what pain your show removes for your audience.
6. Podcast Competition: I highlighted that we’re not just competing with other podcasts, but with all forms of entertainment—TV, games, etc. Know your unique value.
7. Why People Listen: People consume podcasts for entertainment, education, or escape. I asked: Does your show serve one (or more) of these needs?
8. Value of Listener’s Time: All podcasts are “free,” but listeners pay with their time. We need to make it worth it.
9. Improving Your Show: Attending other sessions gave me ideas about making changes that truly improve the show rather than just making it different.
10. AI & Prompts: I shared tips I learned about using AI—give ChatGPT clear instructions about who you are, what you need, and who your audience is.
11. Book Covers = Podcast Artwork: Don’t be cheap with your cover! As much as we say not to judge by appearances, we all do. Your show art matters.
12. Networking: The conference structure ensured everyone met and interacted with new people every day—awesome for making connections.
13. Feedback & Iteration: Get feedback and be willing to edit and improve. Like writing, multiple drafts (and edits) make better episodes.
14. Target Audience: Jonathan’s session hit home: don’t just market for yourself—know your actual audience, and don’t trust social media polls alone.
15. Conferences in General: I appreciated speakers not blatantly selling from stage—a rarity!
16. If You Want to Start a Show: Record everything (planning, editing, writing, etc.) to see how much time it takes, then set a sustainable schedule.
17. Finding Your Listeners: Look for audiences in adjacent markets—not just podcasting-specific spaces.
18. More Takeaways: The importance of networking, getting feedback, and attending events that put you in the room with your ideal audience.

Mentioned In This Episode

Thomas's Patron Toolbox

Novel Marketing Podcast

Chase Replogle

School of Podcastng

Podpage

Mentioned in this episode:

Check Out Dave's Newsletter With Behind the Scenes Content

In each issue of Podcasting Observations, I share my thoughts on what is happening in the podcasting space, my latest content, and things that have caught my eye. I also may ask for your opinion. Join the free community

Podcasting Observations

Get Your Podcast Up and Going in Six Weeks

Dreaming of starting your own podcast but not sure where to begin? Podcasting in Six Weeks gives you a clear, step-by-step path to go from idea to launch with confidence.

Podcasting in Six Weeks

Live Appearances

I loved connecting with my audience. Here are the next events I will be at:

Where Will I Be?

Question of the Month: The Smallest Amount of Downloads

We all want a bigger audience. We all put a lot of work into our shows. With this in mind, what is the smallest amount of downloads you would do the show for? If it drops below a number would you stop, or put effort into finding out why?

School of Podcasting

Hey, it’s Dave Jackson from the School of Podcasting, and in this episode, I’m recapping my experience at Podfest 2026, which was a whirlwind of hallway chats, memorable dinners, and some eye-opening lessons. Here’s what I cover:

Hallway Conversations & Overheard Myths: I noticed folks were obsessing over tiny details like the exact minute a podcast should release, debating things like whether 8:01am is better than 8:00am. Honestly, I don’t think anyone is waiting by their phone for your show to drop to the minute. Being consistent matters more than timing it down to the second.

The Role (and Cost) of AI in Podcasting: I talked to podcasters searching for AI tools that could do everything—generate ideas, write scripts, edit, publish, you name it—ideally for free. The reality is, good AI isn’t free, and companies are raising prices when they add AI features. “AI” stands for “Always Increase” when it comes to your expenses!

Reflections on Video: Unlike previous conferences, there wasn’t as much pressure this time to dive into video podcasting. Most folks seemed to realize you don’t want AI or automation to create your whole show. Polishing? Sure, but not producing the meat.

A Cool AI Demo: I saw a preview of Episonic AI, which analyzes your past episodes, constructs a target audience profile, and even suggests topics and guests. It was interesting in demo form, but I’d want to play with it myself before really judging.

Conference Costs and Why They're So High: I break down just how expensive it is to put on a conference—think $10k to rent an LED screen and $8k just to plug it in. Even coffee for attendees can run $135/gallon! High ticket prices aren’t about gouging attendees; organizers are just trying to cover astronomical hotel fees.

Networking Magic: The biggest benefit of these events is always the networking. I had a blast connecting with old friends, like Daniel J. Lewis, Rob Walsh, Rob Greenlee, and James Cridlin, and got to enjoy some great stories and camaraderie.

Podcasting Hall of Fame: The Hall of Fame event was a highlight. Seeing so many people who’ve truly served the podcasting community—sharing knowledge, fighting legal battles, innovating—reminded me that serving your audience is the common denominator among podcasting greats.

A Word on Programmatic Ads: I discuss my article comparing podcast CPM/programmatic ads to the historic crash of banner ad prices on websites. My worry: as more low-quality, AI-generated shows flood the market and accept pennies, ad rates may sink across the board.

"How to Pitch a Podcast" Show Update: I’m experimenting with a new show concept where we share the worst—and best—podcast pitches. So far, the main hurdle is getting folks to submit their stories in audio form. I’ve simplified the process, and hope more people will participate. If not, it may become a segment rather than a full show.

Final Thoughts: If you went to Podfest, don’t wait to follow up with those business cards—make the most of your new connections! I share about my next steps, including attending the Novel Marketing Conference in Austin, and remind everyone to check out schoolofpodcasting.com if you want personal help growing your show.

School of Podcasting Community

Podnews

Rich Graham the Merch Drop Show

Jeff Grief and the Sell'n Podcast.

Electronic Frontier Foundation

Podfest Expo

Episonic.ai

Capitvate Media Hosting

Podcast Hall of Fame Replay

Thanks for listening, please share the show if you found it valuable, and I’ll catch you next week!

Mentioned in this episode:

Get Your Podcast Up and Going in Six Weeks

Dreaming of starting your own podcast but not sure where to begin? Podcasting in Six Weeks gives you a clear, step-by-step path to go from idea to launch with confidence.

Podcasting in Six Weeks

Live Appearances

I loved connecting with my audience. Here are the next events I will be at:

Where Will I Be?

Check Out Dave's Newsletter With Behind the Scenes Content

In each issue of Podcasting Observations, I share my thoughts on what is happening in the podcasting space, my latest content, and things that have caught my eye. I also may ask for your opinion. Join the free community

Podcasting Observations

On today’s episode, I dig into my thought process as I consider launching a new podcast—and I walk through the essential questions I ask anyone who’s thinking about starting one. If you’ve already got a podcast, these questions might help you rethink your approach.

Why am I starting this podcast?

I share my background as a teacher and my desire to fight back against spammy guest pitches. I want to educate PR agencies and help fellow podcasters feel less alone in the sea of spam.

Who is this podcast for?

This show is for two groups: PR agencies (so they can do their job better) and podcasters (so they know they’re not alone and can improve how they handle pitches).

How will I measure success?

Instead of downloads, I’ll measure success by how many people utilize resources I share, like PodMatch and PodcastGuests.com. I’ll also keep tabs on affiliate signups.

What are the hurdles?

I reflect on a previous project, Dates from Hell, which struggled because it required audience participation but didn’t yet have an audience. For this new podcast, I’ll need a steady supply of good (and bad) pitches from listeners.

Is this a passion project, hobby, or business?

This is mostly a passion project and a hobby, driven by my desire to make a difference and maybe have some fun. If I can monetize it, that’s a nice bonus.

Why will my audience listen?

Listeners will tune in to hear entertainingly bad pitches, learn how to make their own pitches better, and find solidarity in their struggles with guest booking spam. Plus, I’ll offer educational insights that no one else seems to be sharing right now.

How long will it take to make an episode?

I estimate each episode will take around half an hour to produce, keeping things doable alongside my other commitments. You measure your production time and then choose your schedule.

Do I have time and resources to make this happen?

I’ve already got hosting, gear, and a plan for the website (PitchAPodcast.com). The biggest challenge will be getting enough listener participation to keep the show going.

1. I’m considering a crowd-generated podcast to tackle the problem of bad guest pitches.
2. If you’d like to participate, send me your stories of bad (or good!) pitches, info about your podcast and website, and details on your ideal guest.
3. I run through all the big questions to ask before launching, sharing my honest answers and experiences.

Links Mentioned

Pitchapodcast.com

schoolofpodcasting.com

podcastingobservations.com

Captive Media Hosting

Buzzsprout Media Hosting

PodMatch

PodcastGuests.com.

Podpage.com

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If you have your own pitch stories or want to get involved, head to PitchAPodcast.com and share your experiences!

Mentioned in this episode:

Check Out Dave's Newsletter With Behind the Scenes Content

In each issue of Podcasting Observations, I share my thoughts on what is happening in the podcasting space, my latest content, and things that have caught my eye. I also may ask for your opinion. Join the free community

Podcasting Observations

You Have A Message That Needs to Be Heard

You have a message that needs to be shared. Discover the art of podcasting at the School of Podcasting. We teach you to shine a light on your stories, inspiring others one episode at a time.

School of Podcasting

Hey, it’s Dave Jackson here! In this episode, I’m diving letting you see why patience and persistence matter more than anything else in podcasting (and, honestly, in most creative pursuits). We’ve all been spoiled by the microwave mentality (wanting quick results and instant gratification) but the real success stories are built over years, not weeks.

I kick things off with the story of the microwave’s invention as a metaphor for how society craves instant results, then flip the script to talk about why that approach just doesn’t work in podcasting.

You’ll hear me break down the journeys of big names like Morgan Freeman, Samuel L. Jackson, Harrison Ford, Bryan Cranston, Lucille Ball, and even musicians like Bonnie Raitt and Andrea Bocelli—all of whom pushed through years (sometimes decades) before their “big break.” Yes, even Adam Sandler and Jerry Seinfeld had plenty of failures, awkward moments, and years of grinding before the world knew their names. I share how their experiences relate directly to podcasting, and why embracing your own style and sticking with what you love can make all the difference.

I also talk about the importance of consistency, cross-promotion, knowing your audience, and making your content “remarkable”—the kind people just have to talk about. I share how Seinfeld didn’t become a household name overnight, and how even my own podcast journey has been about slow, steady growth, not big, sudden leaps.

Plus, I get into listener engagement strategies, word-of-mouth tactics, and why you should appreciate the connections and opportunities podcasting brings, from new friendships to dream gigs. And yes, you’ll hear a little power rant about the NFL’s approach to consistency (or lack thereof)!

Finally, I wrap up with plenty of listener “because of my podcast” stories, examples of how podcasting opens doors you never imagined, and a reminder that there’s nothing stopping you from growing your show except your own willingness to put in the time and effort.

If you want to get inspired and set the right expectations for your own podcast journey—or just need a reminder that you’re not alone in the slow grind—this episode is for you. Thanks for tuning in!

Lou Mongello and his WDW Radio

Lou Mongello on SOP 713

Because of My Podcast Post on Reddit

Because of my podcast show

Mentioned in this episode:

Podcast Hot Seat

Attention podcasters! Are you ready to take your show to the next level? Introducing Podcast Hot Seat, the ultimate resource for podcasters who want to elevate their game. Just like a friend who tells you you've got spinach in your teeth, we're here to give you the honest feedback you need to shine. At podcasthotseat.com, we specialize in helping good podcasts become great. Hall of Fame podcaster Dave Jackson will identify your strengths and show you how to leverage them to keep your audience hooked. Don't let small oversights hold you back from podcasting stardom. Visit podcasthotseat.com today and put your show in the hot seat. Your listeners will thank you!

Podcast Hotseat

Live Appearances

I loved connecting with my audience. Here are the next events I will be at:

Where Will I Be?

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