"There's no perfect portion of the podcast that you need to get clipped, try something else if it doesn't hit the right demographic."

Niall Mackay sits down with Arielle Nissinblatt, Community Marketing Manager at Descript, to discuss the evolution of podcast editing and the growing importance of video content in podcasting. Arielle shares her journey in the podcasting industry, from starting a podcast recommendation newsletter to her current role at Descript.

The conversation delves into the transformative impact of Descript on podcast editing, particularly its text-based audio transcription service and recent transition to video-based editing. Niall and Arielle explore the significance of creating short video clips for social media promotion and the relationship between these clips and podcast listenership. They also discuss upcoming features in Descript, including the integration with Squadcast for seamless remote recording and editing.

Key Takeaways:

• Descript's text-based audio transcription revolutionized podcast editing 
• The transition to video-based editing in Descript changed everything for podcasters 
• Creating short video clips is crucial for social media promotion and brand awareness 
• Video clips may not directly convert to podcast listeners, but they serve different marketing purposes 
• Descript's B-roll feature adds dynamism to podcast videos effortlessly 

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"One of the most difficult things about podcasts or making podcasts for YouTube is they're generally not that dynamic." 

Niall Mackay discusses the age-old debate of podcaster versus YouTuber. As a podcast producer and coach, Niall shares his insights on the pros and cons of both mediums, drawing from his personal experience and industry knowledge.

Niall begins by discussing the unique charm of podcasting as an audio-only medium, highlighting its ease of production and intimate connection with listeners. He then explores the visual appeal and discoverability advantages of YouTube, while also addressing the challenges each platform presents. Throughout the episode, Niall offers valuable tips for content creators looking to maximize their reach and engagement across both podcasting and YouTube.

Key Takeaways:

• Podcasts have higher listener engagement, with 60-80% of listeners typically finishing an episode
• YouTube videos have lower engagement rates, with 20-40% considered good
• Podcasts are easier to produce but face challenges with discoverability
• YouTube offers better discoverability and monetization opportunities
• Creating content for both platforms can be a winning strategy

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Niall Mackay shares his top 10 tips for optimizing your editing workflow with Descript. Having built a business around the powerful software, Niall is a true Descript master.

His advice covers everything from using AI tools like Studio Sound and filler word removal, to leveraging templates and editing video. Niall emphasizes the importance of quality audio, stating "It hurts my soul when I hear a podcast with terrible audio. Good quality audio is more important than good content."

While praising Descript's capabilities, he also provides key limitations and best practices. "You cannot edit video the same as audio," he cautions on adjusting word gaps.

Whether new to Descript or a seasoned vet, this presentation offers invaluable tips from an expert podcaster and editor. Don't miss Niall's wealth of knowledge!

Drawing from his extensive experience, Niall provides valuable insights and practical advice for podcasters of all levels.

Tip 1: Use Studio Sound with Limiter/Compressor and Adobe Enhance
- Studio Sound can vastly improve poor quality audio with one click
- Add a limiter and compressor first to smooth out volume spikes
- Run audio through Adobe Enhance after Studio Sound for near-studio quality

Tip 2: Analyze and Remove Mic Bleed
- Descript can detect and highlight mic bleed for easier removal
- Change track volume before cutting to avoid affecting entire track

Tip 3: Edit Transcripts and Waveforms Together 
- Editing the transcript allows easy restructuring of content
- But watch for transcript/audio mismatches and edit both views

Tip 4: Use Filler Word Removal Judiciously
- Can automatically strip filler words like "ums" and "uhs"
- But review to avoid awkward cuts, especially with non-native speakers

Tip 5: Shorten Word Gaps Carefully
- Can tighten slow speech by reducing pauses
- But don't cut too tight - 1 second max is recommended

Tip 6: Create Templates for Intros/Outros
- Build reusable templates to save time on repeated elements
- Remember to save templates and set them up early

Tip 7: Edit Video Smartly
- Descript has powerful video editing capabilities 
- Use clapping to easily sync separate audio/video tracks
- Mute rather than delete filler words for smoother video

Tip 8: Leverage AI Tools
- Explore AI-generated content like blogs, show notes, highlights
- But review outputs as quality varies, especially for show notes

Tip 9: Export vs Publish Strategically
- Exporting gives more options but is slower
- Publishing renders faster but with less functionality

Tip 10: Consider Hiring an Editor
- Partnering with an editor eliminates editing headaches
- Find someone to build a relationship with for the best experience

Whether new to Descript or

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"As soon as you start doing something for money, whether you like it or not. It's gonna change."

Podcasting expert and host of Smarter Podcasting Niall Mackay is interviewed by Samantha an AI Voice powered by ChatGPT.

Niall shares his journey from being an avid podcast listener to becoming a successful podcaster himself. He candidly discusses the challenges of podcasting, strategies for attracting and retaining an audience, and the future of the industry. 

Niall's wealth of experience and practical advice make this a must-listen for aspiring and experienced podcasters alike.

Niall delves into the transition from hobby to profession, emphasizing how money changes the dynamics of podcasting. He also explores the importance of consistency, authenticity, and community-building in establishing a dedicated following. 

Additionally, Niall shares his thoughts on the impact of video integration and offers monetization strategies for podcasters.

Key Takeaways:
- Appreciate the time commitment required for podcasting, and consider outsourcing tasks like editing to save time.
- Consistency and being true to yourself are crucial for building a dedicated audience.
- Engage with your audience where they are, and provide value beyond just promoting your episodes.
- Sponsorships and Patreon are viable monetization strategies, but don't expect quick riches from podcasting.
- Video integration is the future of podcasting, but audio should remain the primary focus.

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In this episode of Smarter Podcasting, host Niall Mackay talks with Erin and John, a husband-and-wife duo behind the Connect-Empower Podcast. They discuss the challenges of starting a podcast, the importance of quality equipment and editing, and the commitment required to produce a consistent show.

Erin and John share their journey from initially thinking podcasting would be as easy as hitting record on a phone to realizing the complexities involved, such as editing, hosting, distribution, and promotion. They highlight the value of Niall's guidance in navigating the technical aspects and overcoming common pitfalls like not hitting record or talking over each other.

Throughout the conversation, Niall emphasizes the importance of producing high-quality audio, staying consistent, and focusing on connecting with a niche audience rather than appealing to the masses. He also shares insights from his own podcasting experience, including the surprising growth of his older shows due to their evergreen content.

Key Takeaways:

- Podcasting requires a significant time commitment, often 8-10 hours per episode when accounting for all tasks involved.
- Investing in quality equipment and editing skills is crucial for producing a professional-sounding show.
- Consistency is key, even if it means releasing episodes less frequently or in seasons.
- Focus on connecting with your target audience rather than seeking mass appeal.
- Evergreen content can continue to attract new listeners for years after its release.

"Imagine if every week those amount of people were in a room listening to what you have to say. They showed up because they want to hear exactly what you want to hear." - Niall Mackay

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In this episode, I take you through my personal experience of evolving from a podcasting novice in 2019 to a professional editor and producer for over 30 shows globally. 

I provide my top five tips for those interested in starting their own podcast on a budget. My recommendations include selecting basic but vital equipment, creating a workable home studio, utilizing efficient recording and editing software, seeking assistance and guidance from friends and the online podcasting community, and the importance of continuous learning and networking. 

The episode serves to demystify podcasting for newcomers and emphasizes the possibility of producing top-tier content without breaking the bank.

00:47 Podcasting on a Budget: The Scottish Way
02:16 Essential Equipment for Podcasting
10:35 Setting Up Your Home Studio
16:15 Choosing the Right Recording and Editing Software
18:43 Leveraging Your Network for Podcasting Success
20:52 Learning and Networking in the Podcasting Community

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Niall Mackay shares his podcast audit of Debra Chantry-Taylor's show Better Business, Better Life. 

They discuss equipment and editing processes, defining a clear niche and audience, crafting compelling introductions, improving audio quality, editing techniques, balancing video and audio elements, optimizing calls-to-action, and more. 

Niall provides constructive feedback and tangible tips to elevate Debra's podcast.

Key Takeaways:

• Clearly explain in the introduction who you are, what the episode is about, who the guest is, and what value listeners will get. This "frames" the episode.
• Narrow your niche as much as possible to attract the right listeners. Consider adding relevant keywords to your title.
• Edit out crosstalk, filler words, background noise, and anything distracting to keep the listener focused.
• Decide if you are making the podcast primarily for video or audio. Don't refer to visual elements on an audio show.
• Have just one call-to-action at the end, focused on your own business, not promoting the guest.
• Change up your intro jingle, ads, etc. to keep it fresh. Don't get too repetitive.

"The introduction is probably the most important part of your podcast because it's what you need to keep the listener listening."

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Email me ([email protected]) or contact me on Seven Million Bikes Podcasts Facebook or Instagram to book your free Podcast Audit!

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Need a stunning new logo for your brand? Or maybe a short animation?
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Seasoned podcaster Garry Kelly,  Managing Director of GK Media, shares invaluable insights on creating a successful podcast, detailing how he built his professional studio in Galway and offering tips for new podcasters. 

Key Takeaways:
- Start with just a good microphone - quality comes first. Acoustics matter more than equipment.
- Editing makes a big difference in polishing episodes. Be willing to trim and refine raw recordings.  
- Add video elements to expand reach on social media. Clips on TikTok and YouTube can draw new listeners.
- Seek to constantly improve audio, visuals, equipment. Successful creators build skills over time.
- Focus on providing value for your audience above all else. 

"If you’ve lost interest, your audience have also lost interest."

Entities Mentioned:
- GK Media, Galway Races, Jerry Girls, Tommy Tiernan, Gary Talks, Zoom, Taskam, Road microphones, Sennheiser microphones, Shure microphones, Blackmagic cameras, Adobe Audition

Send us a text

Email me ([email protected]) or contact me on Seven Million Bikes Podcasts Facebook or Instagram to book your free Podcast Audit!

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Need a stunning new logo for your brand? Or maybe a short animation?
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I'm joined by a podcaster who I first met when we did a coaching call on how to use Descript. Then she heard about my podcast audits I've been doing and she was like, "yes, please give me an audit!"

My guest today has a background in customer service, and she just wants to serve people and help people. So started a podcast with her dad, which means they actually have a good rapport together, which she says that like it's obvious, but that's not obvious that you have a good rapport with your dad and you can do a podcast, but she created a podcast with her dad called The Human Being Project and their website is The Change Evolutionist. 

My guest today is Janelle Thiessen!

In this episode we cover;
- branding
- mic placement
- how to make a killer introduction!
- and more!!

So listen to find out how to make your podcast the best it can be!!

Send us a text

Email me ([email protected]) or contact me on Seven Million Bikes Podcasts Facebook or Instagram to book your free Podcast Audit!

Sign up for Descript now!

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!

I share my top 10 programs for podcasting and how much they cost. 

I discuss the importance of using these programs to create high-quality podcasts and streamline the editing process. I also highlight the benefits of using programs like Descript, Canva, ChatGPT, Adobe Enhance, Notion, Calendly, ActiveCampaign, and hiring a content writer and editor, emphasizing the value of investing in these tools to save time and improve the overall podcasting experience.

Key Takeaways:

• Descript is a game-changer for podcast editing, allowing easy text-based editing and waveform visualization.
• Canva is essential for creating podcast artwork and episode graphics, even for those with no design experience.
• ChatGPT can be used to generate episode titles, show notes, and interview questions, saving time and improving content quality.
• Adobe Enhance is a powerful tool for improving audio quality, especially for poorly recorded or low-quality audio.
• Notion is a versatile organizational tool that helps manage podcast workflows, guest lists, and show notes.
• Calendly simplifies the process of scheduling podcast interviews and appointments with guests.
• ActiveCampaign is an email provider that helps automate email sequences and manage mailing lists for podcast promotion.
• Hiring a content writer and editor can save time and improve the quality of podcast blog posts and show notes.

Send us a text

Email me ([email protected]) or contact me on Seven Million Bikes Podcasts Facebook or Instagram to book your free Podcast Audit!

Sign up for Descript now!

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!