"Good podcasting is about generously communicating and showing up for your listener and being able to deliver them really good value. " - Mark Steadman

If you’re a podcaster, new or experienced, this podpast episode will change the way you approach your craft. 

This episode with Mark Steadman was an absolute masterclass in podcasting. His insights on putting the listener first have completely reshaped the way I think about crafting episodes. I’ve always believed in respecting the listener’s time, but Mark took it to a whole new level—showing how everything from mic technique to episode titles plays a role in delivering a great experience.

One of my biggest takeaways was how powerful it is to speak directly to one listener rather than addressing a broad audience. That subtle shift in language builds a stronger connection and trust. Also, his thoughts on sharpening the axe before starting—a lesson I’ve often ignored—really resonated. I tend to jump in headfirst, but Mark’s advice on preparation is something I’ll be applying moving forward.

Key Takeaways

Respect the Listener’s Time – Your audience is giving up their valuable time for you. Don’t waste it with poor audio quality or irrelevant content. 

Put the Listener First – From your content to your marketing, everything should be designed with your audience in mind. 

Titles & Show Notes Matter – Your episode title and description should grab attention and be optimized for searchability. 

Speak to One Listener – Use singular language (“you” instead of “guys”) to build a stronger connection. 

Preparation Makes a Difference – Spending time planning your podcast (listener persona, content structure, etc.) will save you time and improve quality in the long run. 

Chapters & Timestamps

02:00 - Why Everything is About the Listener – The key to a great podcast.
07:00 - Respecting the Listener’s Time – Why quality matters.
10:00 - Speaking to One Listener – How language builds connection.
19:00 - The Importance of Preparation – How planning saves time.
26:00 - Creating Engaging Titles & Show Notes – How to make your episodes discoverable.
37:00 - Final Thoughts & Takeaways – Wrapping up with key lessons. 

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"48% of podcasts on Apple Podcasts have fewer than 10 episodes. Podfade is real, but it doesn’t have to happen to you."

If you’ve ever worried about running out of content or losing momentum, this episode is a must-listen.

This episode is packed with insights every podcaster needs—especially if you want your show to last beyond the first few episodes. So many podcasts start strong but quickly fade away because of poor planning, lack of direction, or burnout. But with the right strategy, you can keep going and grow your podcast beyond 10, 50, or even 100 episodes.

I loved talking about content buckets, a simple but powerful way to organize your podcast topics and ensure you always have something fresh to talk about. We also broke down why planning ahead is essential and how having at least 10 episode ideas mapped out can help you stay consistent.

If you’re serious about podcasting, these expert tips will keep you on track and help you avoid the dreaded podfade.

Key Takeaways

• Nearly half of all podcasts never make it past 10 episodes—having a plan is crucial. [00:02:00]
• Content buckets help organize your topics and prevent creative burnout. [00:12:00]
• Knowing why you’re podcasting, who it’s for, and what value you bring keeps your show focused. [00:10:00]
• AI and tools like ChatGPT and Trello can speed up your planning process. [00:22:00]
• Avoid paralysis by analysis—don’t overthink, just start recording. [00:07:00]

Chapters & Timestamps

• 02:00 – The Importance of Mapping Out 10+ Episodes in Advance
• 07:00 – Overcoming Paralysis by Analysis
• 10:00 – The Power of Content Buckets & How to Use Them
• 12:00 – Tools & AI to Help You Stay Consistent
• 22:00 – Practical Tips to Keep Your Podcast Going Strong

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This conversation with Nick Thomson was an absolute masterclass in why businesses need to start thinking about podcasting as a key marketing tool. Nick brought such a fresh and insightful perspective, particularly around the idea that podcasting isn't just about downloads—it's about brand awareness, networking, and positioning yourself as an authority in your field.

One of the things I loved about this episode was how we tackled the common objections businesses have when it comes to starting a podcast. Whether it's concerns about ROI, finding a niche, or creating engaging content, Nick had practical and actionable advice for all of it. The way he reframed podcasting as a strategic business tool rather than just another content channel was incredibly eye-opening.

This episode reaffirmed everything I believe about podcasting—it's not just for hobbyists or media companies, but for every business that wants to build trust and authority with their audience. If you’ve been on the fence about starting a podcast, this is the episode that will change your mind!

• Niall Mackay

Key Takeaways: 

"Podcasting is a Content Engine" - A single podcast episode can generate blog content, social media clips, and email newsletter material for months.

"Niche Down to Stand Out" - When you try to speak to everyone, you speak to no one. The more specific your podcast, the better.

"The ROI of Podcasting Goes Beyond Downloads" - Success isn’t just about listens; it’s about brand awareness, business networking, and building authority.

"Podcasting as a Sales & Networking Tool" - Using a podcast to connect with key industry players is a brilliant way to build relationships and generate business.

"Small Audience, Big Impact" - Even with a small number of listeners, the depth of engagement can drive significant business results.

Chapters & Timestamps:

03:00 - Nick’s Background & Love for Podcasting
07:00 - How Podcasts Fuel Content Strategies
12:00 - Overcoming the Biggest Barriers to Podcasting
21:20 - The Power of Niche Podcasts
24:10 - Measuring the ROI of a Podcast
27:10 - Podcasting as a Business Networking Tool
30:40 - Why Small Audiences Can Be More Valuable than Large Ones

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“Invest a little bit in a good microphone, know what you're doing, how to use it and make the best content and make the best quality content that you can. Trust me, it will make a massive difference.” 

I was absolutely blown away when I discovered A Vietnam Podcast had reached the top 5% of podcasts globally. It’s been a rollercoaster—figuring out what works, what doesn’t, and most importantly, learning to appreciate the process.

So many podcasters, especially those just starting out, get caught up in comparing themselves to Joe Rogan or major network-backed shows. 

Podcasting is a long game, and with the right strategies anyone can carve out their own success story.

• Niall Mackay

Key Takeaways:

1. Consistency is Key – The majority of podcasts fail because they don’t make it past 10 episodes. Keep publishing, take breaks if needed, but always come back.
2. Build a Back Catalog – 30% of my downloads come from older episodes, proving that having a strong library keeps listeners engaged. 
3. Audio Quality Matters More Than Content – People will forgive a lot, but bad audio will make them tune out instantly. Invest in a good mic. 
4. Make Your Podcast Discoverable – SEO, YouTube, and having a website are crucial. Podcast directories alone won’t get you found. 
5. Double Down on Video & Shorts – YouTube Shorts and Instagram Reels have brought in thousands of views, helping my podcast reach new audiences. 

Chapters and Timestamps: 
01:00 - Understanding Podcast Download Numbers 
04:00 - Global Podcast Statistics 
09:00 - Tip #1: Consistency and Seasons 
11:00 - Tip #2: Building a Back Catalogue 
13:00 - Tip #3: Audio Quality Importance 
14:00 - Tip #4: Making Your Podcast Discoverable 
19:00 - Tip #5: Building a Website 
23:00 - Smarter Podcasting Journey
27:00 - Taking Breaks and Coming Back Stronger 
31:00 - Content Strategy and Growth 

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Save Frustration. And time!
Let my team and I save you the time and frustration it takes to edit a podcast. From start to finish, we can help you share your story with the world with minimum fuss and cost. – Niall Mackay, The Podcast Guy
Audio Episodes Edited for ONLY $27! Save $127!!

Need a stunning new logo for your brand? Or maybe a short animation?
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“ No one's going to say no for an interview because every SME owner needs that awareness.” - Joel Zorrilla

LinkedIn was a platform I had overlooked for years, and now I realize the massive potential it has for podcasters. My guest, Joel Zorrilla, gave some incredible insights that not only validated my experiences but also opened my eyes to strategies I hadn't even considered.

One of the biggest takeaways for me was just how powerful LinkedIn can be for podcast growth when used the right way. The way Joel broke down engagement strategies, networking, and optimizing your profile made me rethink my entire approach. I’ve already seen firsthand how much LinkedIn has helped my own podcast grow, and this episode reinforced that this is a platform every podcaster should be leveraging.

What I also loved was Joel’s emphasis on using high-quality content, networking intentionally, and playing into LinkedIn’s algorithm shifts. If you’re a podcaster looking to grow your audience, build credibility, and connect with the right people, this episode is a must-listen. This episode was an absolute game-changer for me. 

Key Takeaways:
- LinkedIn is the Best Platform for Podcast Growth 
- Your Guests Can Be Your Biggest Advocates 
- Optimize Your LinkedIn Profile for Visibility
- Short-Form Video is Key 
- Be Consistent and Patient 

Chapters & Timestamps

00:40 -  Why LinkedIn is a Goldmine for Podcasters 
03:00 - The Power of Guests Sharing Your Podcast
09:10 - Facebook vs LinkedIn for Podcast Growth 
16:00 - How to Optimize Your LinkedIn Profile
24:00 - Why Every Podcaster Should Be on LinkedIn
28:40 - The Power of Short-Form Video on LinkedIn

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Let my team and I save you the time and frustration it takes to edit a podcast. From start to finish, we can help you share your story with the world with minimum fuss and cost. – Niall Mackay, The Podcast Guy
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 "This is what podcasting will become - it will become second nature for all businesses to have one." 

Podcasting has evolved into an essential tool for businesses, and I firmly believe that it will soon be as indispensable as having a website. Just a few years ago, businesses could get away with not having an online presence, but now? It’s unthinkable. Podcasting is heading in the same direction. If you're not already using it as a branding, marketing, and networking tool, you’re leaving massive opportunities on the table. 

One of the biggest takeaways from this episode is the sheer power of podcasting in building brand authority. When you speak directly to your audience, sharing insights and experiences, you establish credibility in your industry. This isn’t about mass appeal—it’s about engaging the right audience in a way that fosters trust and long-term relationships. And what’s even better? It’s one of the most cost-effective marketing tools available. If you’re serious about your business, you need to start your podcast today—before the space gets crowded and expensive. 

- Niall Mackay 

Key Takeaways:
- Podcasting will become as essential as websites 
- Podcasting builds brand authority 
- Networking secret: Interview your potential clients 
- Repurposing content is key 
- Podcasting helps humanize your brand 

Chapters & Timestamps:
01:20 - The Future of Podcasting in Business
02:20 - Building Brand Authority Through Podcasting
03:30 - Creating Evergreen Content That Lasts Forever
05:20 - Podcasting as a Marketing Tool
06:00 - Maximizing Content Repurposing
08:00 - The Secret to Using Podcasting for Networking
10:00 - Humanizing Your Brand with Podcasting
12:20 - Why Podcasts Fit into Busy Lifestyles

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Let my team and I save you the time and frustration it takes to edit a podcast. From start to finish, we can help you share your story with the world with minimum fuss and cost. – Niall Mackay, The Podcast Guy
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“One of the biggest barriers to people starting their own podcast is because of the equipment needed to start their own show..”

I wanted to inspire anyone considering starting a podcast in 2025 with this episode. Podcasting changed my life—what began as a hobby is now a thriving business that connects me with people across the globe. 

The barriers to starting your own show are lower than ever, and the opportunities are endless. From making lifelong connections to seeing your podcast climb the charts, the journey is as fulfilling as it is exciting.

One key takeaway I hope listeners embrace is to start with what you have. I’ve recorded episodes in less-than-ideal conditions with basic equipment, yet the content resonates with audiences because of its authenticity. 

This episode is my way of showing that, whether you're a beginner with just a smartphone or someone looking to take their podcast to the next level, the only thing stopping you is taking that first step.

• Niall Mackay

Key Takeaways:

• Podcasting is Growing and Here to Stay
• The Importance of Niche and Passion
• Low Barrier to Entry
• The Role of Video in 2025
• Consistency is Key

Chapters and Timestamps:

01:10 - Why Start a Podcast in 2025
02:30 - Overcoming Barriers: Equipment and Spaces
05:50 - The Importance of Video in Podcasting
09:00 - Building Consistency and a Niche
11:20 - Tips for Growing Your Audience

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Let my team and I save you the time and frustration it takes to edit a podcast. From start to finish, we can help you share your story with the world with minimum fuss and cost. – Niall Mackay, The Podcast Guy
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“If someone came to me and asked for advice on a podcast room, I'd say carpet, no tiles, no windows, make it nice and cozy and tight to stop that sound reverberating around.”

This episode really showcases how you don't need a perfect studio setup to create professional-quality podcasts. When I started in 2019 with just a Blue Yeti mic and an old MacBook Pro, I never imagined I'd be helping produce over 700 episodes and reaching millions of downloads. 

What I've learned is that it's not about having expensive gear or a perfect room - it's about understanding the fundamentals of sound capture and using the right tools strategically.

The biggest revelation for many podcasters is that you can create amazing content anywhere if you focus on the basics: using dynamic microphones, proper positioning, wearing headphones, and leveraging modern AI tools like Descript's Studio Sound. 

It's incredible how these simple techniques can transform a less-than-ideal space like an echoing meeting room into a professional recording environment.

• Niall Mackay

Key Takeaways:

• Started his podcasting journey with basic equipment (Blue Yeti mic and 2010 MacBook Pro)
• Proper microphone positioning (about a fist away) is crucial for sound quality
• Dynamic microphones are superior to condenser mics for non-studio environments
• Descript's Studio Sound feature revolutionized his podcast production process
• Offering worldwide support for podcast setup and post-production

Chapters and Timestamps: 
01:00 - Meeting Room Setup
02:40 - Equipment Overview 
05:10 - Setting Up the Boom Arm 
06:30 - Cable Management 
08:30 - Importance of Headphones
10:00 - Microphone Techniques 
11:20 - Post-Production with Descript 

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Save Frustration. And time!
Let my team and I save you the time and frustration it takes to edit a podcast. From start to finish, we can help you share your story with the world with minimum fuss and cost. – Niall Mackay, The Podcast Guy
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 ”Once it's animated or once it has a video component, it's no longer cheap. And the reason is because I think cheap television has certain characteristics which a narrative podcast doesn't.” - Guang Jin

Talking to Guang Jin absolutely blew my mind. He didn’t just share his journey—he redefined how we should think about podcasting in the modern age. His insights into transitioning from audio-only to video were like a wake-up call for me. 

Video isn’t just an add-on to podcasting; it’s a rocket booster for growth, engagement, and reaching new audiences. The numbers he’s achieved on YouTube are incredible, and his strategies prove that video is no longer optional—it’s essential. 

If you’re not thinking about integrating YouTube into your podcasting game yet, you’re already behind the curve.

• Niall Mackay 

Key Takeaways:

The Power of YouTube for Growth - Guang's podcast gained 245,000 monthly viewers and over 10,000 YouTube subscribers in just six months.

Why Narrative Podcasts Need Tailored Video Solutions - Guang explains the intricate balance of custom animations and generative AI that makes narrative podcasts stand out on YouTube.

Data-Driven Engagement Insights - Returning viewer metrics and audience engagement on YouTube reveal untapped growth potential.

Audio vs. Video Audience Demographics - Women dominate audio-only audiences, while video attracts a more balanced demographic. 

Turning Audiograms into Visual Masterpieces - Why simple audiograms fail and how Guang’s method of visually immersive storytelling bridges the gap.

Chapters and Timestamps:

02:50 – Meet Guang Jin: From P&G to Podcasting Powerhouse
08:30 – Why YouTube is Revolutionizing Podcasting
14:20 – The Art of Creating Engaging Video Content
20:50 – Data-Driven Growth and Audience Insights
28:10 – Expanding from Audio to Video: Lessons Learned

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Save Frustration. And time!
Let my team and I save you the time and frustration it takes to edit a podcast. From start to finish, we can help you share your story with the world with minimum fuss and cost. – Niall Mackay, The Podcast Guy
Audio Episodes Edited for ONLY $27! Save $127!!

Need a stunning new logo for your brand? Or maybe a short animation?
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I’ve been using Fiverr for years for everything from ordering YouTube thumbnails, translation services, keyword research, writing SEO articles to Canva designs and more!

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Stop killing yourself trying to create content for every platform—repurpose and leverage what you already have. - Lyndsay Phillips

Talking to Lyndsay Phillips was a masterclass in transforming the way we think about podcasting. Lyndsay Phillips brought an incredible wealth of knowledge, showing how a single episode can be repurposed into an ecosystem of content that drives visibility, nurtures leads, and builds authority. 

I was blown away by her strategies for turning podcast episodes into assets that not only extend your reach but also directly contribute to your business growth. It’s clear that repurposing isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a must for anyone serious about scaling their podcast and maximizing their impact.

Listening to Lyndsay, I realized how many opportunities I’ve missed by not fully leveraging my own content. From creating Instagram carousels and LinkedIn articles to building systems that save time and streamline the process, her approach has completely changed my perspective. What really stuck with me is how strategic and intentional repurposing can be.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the demands of content creation, this episode is a game-changer. It’s packed with actionable insights that I can’t wait to implement, and I know you’ll feel the same way.

• Niall Mackay

Key Takeaways:

Content Repurposing Strategies for Maximum ROI – Lyndsay explains how to repurpose a single episode into multiple assets, from YouTube videos to LinkedIn posts.

Why Solo Episodes are Critical for Building Authority – Solo episodes allow podcasters to connect with their audience and drive direct leads.

The Power of Setting Expectations with Guests – Lyndsay shares tips for getting guests to promote episodes by providing them with well-prepared assets.

Instagram Carousels: The Ultimate Mini Content Books – A swipeable format on Instagram that engages audiences while delivering bite-sized value.

How to Automate and Systematize Your Podcast Workflow – Niall and Lyndsay discuss creating a workflow that saves time and ensures consistent content distribution.

Chapters and Timestamps:

05:10 – Why Content Repurposing is a Must-Have Strategy
20:00 – Leveraging Solo Episodes for Business Goals
23:50 – Creating Guest Assets That Drive Promotion
29:10 – Automating and Systematizing Your Podcast Workflow
34:00 – Closing Remarks and Next Steps

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Save Frustration. And time!
Let my team and I save you the time and frustration it takes to edit a podcast. From start to finish, we can help you share your story with the world with minimum fuss and cost. – Niall Mackay, The Podcast Guy
Audio Episodes Edited for ONLY $27! Save $127!!

Need a stunning new logo for your brand? Or maybe a short animation?
Whatever you need, you can find it on Fiverr.
I’ve been using Fiverr for years for everything from ordering YouTube thumbnails, translation services, keyword research, writing SEO articles to Canva designs and more!

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