The How To Podcast Series - Podcast Co-Hosts, Practical Podcasting Tips, and Podcast Community

EPISODE 683 - I Googled Myself and Not One Mention of My Social Media Accounts - Podcasting Tips and Search Engine Optimization SEO

Ok, so I did a Google Search on my Living The Next Chapter Podcast - it is a podcast that features authors, publishers and it is literally a joy to create! Starting in 2022, we now have over 760 episodes! Wow!

I had a conversation with a pro-Facebook Podcaster that believes wholeheartedly that Facebook is the best tool to grow his show - it is working for him and I am so pleased to see that he has found his engaged audience and support him fully.

I did ask though, is there SEO (Search Engine Optimization) for Facebook? If you Googled your Podcast would Google return any of your content from Facebook in the search results. He seemed stunned at that question as Facebook is the be all and end all for his podcast.

I went to Google and did this very thing for my show, Living The Next Chapter and my assumptions were confirmed. I challenge you to test this for your podcast and share your results with me at HowToPodcast.ca

My top 6 results on page one of Google (the Holy Grail of Search Results is obviously page 1!!) were,

- My Podcast on Apple

- My Website (which I own)

- My Podcast Channel on YouTube for my show

- My Hosting Site for my podcast - Buzzsprout

- My Podcast on Spotify

- My Podcast on Podchaser

Not a single mention of any of my social media accounts - none of my Facebook or Instagram ads resulted in being found on the biggest search engine in the world! None! I keep saying it, I am a podcaster that has social media assets, not a social media person with a podcast!

Get a domain for your website! Be on both Apple and Android! Set up your YouTube Podcast today! These are all ways to be found.

Facebook might be your audience today, Instagram might be your focus at the moment - BUT - Google is not bringing back those social platforms in search results, try it yourself and make the best decision for your podcast today!

If you need help with any of this, let me know - I can help.

Oh, and by the way, I did not PAY to be found on page one of Google. Just do the work, in the RIGHT PLACES! You will be found!

Catch you on the next episode!

Check ou tmy author podcast - Living The Next Chapter

https://livingthenextchapter.com/

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EPISODE 682 - Podcasters, Silence is Golden - Don't Kill The Space, What Mozart Can Teach You About Podcasting

Episode Summary

In this episode, Dave explores why silence is just as important in podcasting as it is in music. Drawing from over 45 years as a musician and his experience as a podcast host, Dave explains how intentional pauses add depth, clarity, and a pleasant cadence to your episodes—making your show more enjoyable and digestible for listeners.

Why Silence Matters

• Silence between spoken words is as essential as the notes between music.

• Famous composers like Mozart emphasized that music lies in the space between the notes.

Podcast Editing: Don’t Remove All the Pauses!

• Over-editing can make a podcast sound robotic and rushed.

• Tools that delete all silence may lead to content that’s harder to follow and less soothing for the audience.

• Natural pauses help listeners absorb information, feel at ease, and fully engage with your show

Listener Experience and Pacing

• Feedback shows that listeners value a non-rushed, calm podcast pace.

• The right amount of space in dialogue creates clarity and connection.

• Your editing choices should prioritize listener comfort and comprehension.

Demonstration: Silence vs. Over-Editing

• Dave shares two versions of a passage:

  • One with natural pauses, as he would read on the show.

  • A second, heavily edited version with all silence removed.

• The result: too much editing can create anxiety and make content harder to process.

Practical Tips for Podcasters

• Don’t feel pressured to eliminate all silence—those gaps are part of natural speech.

• Communicate your preferences to any editors you work with: ask for space to be left in your audio.

• Remember, it’s your podcast: you get to decide the style and pacing.

• When presenting live or recording, slow down, breathe, and give yourself (and your audience) time to think.

Final Encouragement

• Silence isn’t an editing mistake—it’s your best friend for clarity and listener retention.

• If you need podcast editing help or advice, Dave is available for support and collaboration.

Remember: Add some purposeful silence to your next episode. It could make your podcast more memorable and enjoyable for everyone tuning in!

"The music is not in the notes, but in the silence between." Mozart

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Episode 681 - Podcasters, Try Being Quiet When Your Guest Speaks - Podcasting and Interview Tips

Main Topic: Interview Etiquette – Giving Space to Your Guest

Avoid frequent interjections like “yes,” “right,” or “okay.” These can clutter your episode and create more editing work. Train yourself to limit affirmations and let your guest share their thoughts fully.

Advice for Podcasters:

• Remaining quiet as the host isn’t about being disengaged—it helps with smoother editing and gives your guest room to shine.

• Don’t feel pressured to add constant “uh-huhs” or personal insertions. Instead, listen actively, and add flavor only when necessary.

• This skill not only makes your podcast sound better—it helps you be a better listener in your personal and work life.

• After your guest finishes answering, move to your next question—no need to repeat what was just said.

• Review past interviews with a critical ear. Spot areas where more silence could have improved the flow. You can always revisit and re-edit those episodes for future listeners.

Support for Podcasters

• Struggling with editing or overwhelmed by behind-the-scenes work?
  Dave is here to help—reach out via howtopodcast.ca for support or a one-on-one conversation.Community Corner

  • Listener messages and tips are welcome! Use the SpeakPipe recorder on the website to share your advice—90-second messages may be featured on future episodes.

  • Remember: only you can create your unique podcast. There’s no one better to tell your story than you!

Thank you for being part of the podcast! Keep growing, keep sharing—and if you have tips, questions, or challenges, join the conversation

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EPISODE 680 - Want a Free Clickable Link To Your Podcast use Pod.Link to Share Your Show - Podcast Tips - The Daily Dave - Podcasting Tips and Tool

Episode Summary

In this short episode, Dave shares an easy, free tool that every podcaster can use to help listeners access and share their show: pod.link.

Learn how to add a direct link in your email signature or on social media, making it effortless for people to find and share your podcast across all platforms.

What Is Pod.link?

• Pod.link creates a universal page for your podcast, listing all the major listening platforms (Apple, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Audible, and more).

• Simply search for your show on pod.link, copy the unique URL, and use it wherever you promote your podcast.

How to Use for Maximum Impact

• Email Signature: Paste your pod.link URL at the bottom of your emails, so every recipient has instant access to your show.

• Social Media: Share your pod.link in stories, posts, or bio links. Provide an easy way for followers to listen and share.

• No Website Required: Even if you don't have a podcast website, pod.link ensures your audience can listen on their preferred platform.

Tips for Sharing Your Show

• Treat your social media followers as your show’s evangelists—equip them with a universal link and encourage them to spread the word.

• If you have multiple podcasts, repeat the process for each show to gather their unique links.

• Ask your followers to share your pod.link with friends and communities—you never know who might tune in next!

Listener and Community Engagement

• Dave invites listeners to send in their own tips for promoting shows—share your ideas and you could be featured in an upcoming episode.

• Stay connected through howtopodcast.ca for more tips, Zoom rooms, and ongoing community support.

Quick Recap

• Free tool: pod.link

• Boost your reach: Email signatures, social media, or anywhere else you connect with audiences

• Engage your community: Provide easy sharing tools and always welcome new ideas

Thanks for listening! Need help promoting your podcast or want to share your own tip?

Tired of paying for EVERYTHING - check out our free podcast resources

http://podcastforfree.com/

https://pod.link/

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Helping Podcasters Everyday! 

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Episode 679 - Thoughts on Niching Down, Narrowing Your Focus and How to do this - Podcasting Tips

Dave answers a question from listener Jen Mack about niching your podcast audience: Should you focus on the kind of person they are, or on the problem they have? Dave explores practical strategies for tailoring your show to a specific group—and why a “niche” is essential for deeper impact and connection.1. The Value of Niching Your Audience

• Focusing your podcast on a specific audience or their problems makes your content more meaningful and better targeted.

• Broad topics with little depth rarely connect as powerfully as shows that go deep within a defined niche.

2. How to Discover and Hone Your Niche

• Go back to basics: Revisit why you started your show and who you want to serve.

• Use surveys and join online groups to discover what your potential audience talks about and cares about.

• Attend community events, engage in relevant meetups, and connect with people face-to-face to understand your audience better.

3. The Person vs. The Problem

• An effective niche is often a blend of both targeting a specific type of listener and the challenges they want to solve.

• Consider not just who your audience is, but why they’re seeking out your show and what questions they’re asking.

4. Tools & Tactics for Refining Your Focus

• Use Google’s autofill feature to see what potential listeners are searching for online. Build episodes and episode titles around these queries.

• Listen for feedback from your audience—like Jen’s question—to further tailor your topics as your show grows.

5. Building Community Through Engagement

• Interact with your listeners by inviting questions and feedback through your website.

• Responding directly to audience inquiries helps you continually refine your niche and deepen your podcast’s relevance.

Call to Action

• Have a question or tip about podcasting niches? Visit howtopodcast.ca, hit the microphone icon, and leave a 90-second voice message to be featured on a future episode.

• Share your one must-have call-to-action for the end of an episode—what would it be?

Thanks for listening and being part of this growing podcasting community!

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Helping Podcasters Everyday! 

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EPISODE 678 - Blinded By Fear - When You Get Hit So Hard You Might Just Give Up on Your Podcast

In this episode, we tackle one of the biggest roadblocks for podcasters: fear.

Whether it’s the fear of the unknown, worrying about what others might think, or getting stuck over “what ifs,” these anxieties can keep us from hitting record, launching new ideas, or growing our shows.

We’ll explore why these fears are so common in podcasting, how they can sabotage our progress, and—most importantly—practical strategies to overcome them.

Tune in for real talk about building confidence, reframing self-doubt, and taking bold steps forward, even when you don’t have all the answers.

If fear has ever held you back, this episode is for you!

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Helping Podcasters Everyday! 

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We would love to hear from you - here is our listener survey!

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EPISODE 677 - Introducing PodcastFeedback.ca - Limited Time - Donate to Charity and Get Feedback on Your Podcast

LOOKING FOR CONSTRUCTIVE FEEDBACK ON YOUR PODCAST, SOCIAL MEDIA & WEBSITE AND NO THE SNARKY COMMENTS

Get in early with this special offer:

1 - Provide a link to the episode you wish to have reviewed

2 - Listen to my review first before it goes out as an episode - no surprises!

3 - Cost - for a limited time: Please donate financially to the charity of your choice

4 - Provide a link to the charity that you donated to so that we can promote them on your review episode

5 - Promote your podcast by having it reviewed on The How To Podcast Series

LIMITED TIME OFFER!

https://podcastfeedback.ca/

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Helping Podcasters Everyday! 

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We would love to hear from you - here is our listener survey!

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Episode 676 - Voice-Over Artist and Former Radio Producer Shares The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible Voice - With CO-HOST Mary Chan

Mary Chan’s conversation on the podcast centers on what it really takes to build a show that feels sustainable, authentic, and enjoyable for both host and listener. She reflects on how she launched her own podcast with the goal of helping other podcasters, beginning with a weekly solo format before shifting to an every-other-week rhythm that alternates between solo episodes and guests. That change, along with planned breaks in the summer and winter, became part of a healthier creative model that supports her life, her family, and her long-term energy.

A major theme in the episode is the pressure podcasters often place on themselves. Mary challenges the idea that a show must be weekly to matter, reminding listeners that taking breaks is not a failure but a way to refresh, protect creativity, and make room for new ideas. She also speaks about how important it is to communicate openly with listeners when a break is coming, treating them like friends rather than disappearing without explanation.

The episode also explores the deeper mental side of podcasting, especially the fear many people feel when hearing their own voice for the first time. Mary draws on her background in radio to explain that confidence grows through repetition, self-listening, and practice. She encourages podcasters to listen back to their episodes, notice when they sound natural, and find their “visible voice” by speaking as themselves instead of trying to sound polished or perfect.

Another strong thread is the importance of understanding who you are speaking to. Mary explains that whether you are recording in a closet, at a kitchen table, or in a studio, it helps to picture an ideal listener so the episode feels like a real conversation. She also shares her view that video is not mandatory in podcasting, and that audio alone can create a more intimate and less judgmental experience for both hosts and guests.

Key takeaway: A strong podcast is not built on pressure or perfection, but on rhythm, clarity, and connection. When you protect your energy, speak naturally, and focus on serving a real listener, your show becomes more sustainable and more powerful.

The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible Voice

https://pod.link/1521579706

https://www.organizedsound.ca/

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EPISODE 675 - Narrative Podcasting - A Different Approach to Interviewing - Podcastin' in the free world

I recently had the priviledge to spend time with Neil Young's older brother Bob on my Living The Next Chapter Podcast. We talked about his new book, we shared stories of his brother Neil and the Young Family.

Our conversation was not framed like a typical interview so I thought I would try editing the interview in a different format. I am putting this out so you can see that there are other ways to edit your podcasts - be creative and don't be afraid to try new editing techniques.

Bob Young was born in Toronto, Ontario, Canada in 1942. He was a member of the Canadian Professional Golfers’ Association for nearly three decades and first met Moe Norman in the early 1960s. Like Norman, Young has always been intrigued by metaphysics and has had access to the leading trance mediums. Young’s brother is Neil Young, the internationally recognized singer-songwriter.

https://www.bobyounggolf.com/

Monetize This! Where Podcasting Best Practices Come to Diehttps://pod.link/1856003492

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Episode 674 - When Podcasters Say No To Video Podcasting - Will We See Creators Leave With the Peer Pressure to do Video Podcasts

In this episode of The How to Podcast Series, Dave pushes back on the growing pressure for podcasters to become video creators, reminding listeners that podcasting has always allowed room for different approaches. He reflects on the confusion surrounding Apple’s video podcasting direction, the mixed messages in the industry, and the way creators are being made to feel as though audio-only shows are somehow no longer enough. The heart of the episode is a strong defense of creator choice, community, and keeping podcasting open to people with different time, budget, comfort, and skill levels.

Dave shares his concern that this video-first push is causing real stress for podcasters who do not want to be on camera or do not have the capacity to add video to their workflow. He speaks candidly about the harm of gatekeeping and the way peer pressure can make creators question whether they belong in podcasting at all. He also points to examples of podcasters stepping back because of the pressure, using those stories to argue that the industry should not push people away from the medium they love.

The episode also touches on the importance of RSS, the limits of platform control, and the value of staying nimble as a creator. Dave contrasts the flexibility of audio podcasting with the risks of relying too heavily on closed platforms, while also emphasizing that no single format should be treated as the only professional path. He encourages podcasters to keep the humanity in their shows, avoid over-editing themselves into something unnatural, and make content that fits their life and their audience.

Dave closes with an invitation for listeners to reflect on what works best for them and to remember that audio podcasting still matters deeply. He also encourages feedback through the show survey and reinforces that the goal is to build a welcoming, supportive podcasting community.

Key takeaway: You do not have to do video to be a real podcaster. The best podcasting choice is the one that fits your skills, resources, and comfort, while still letting your voice be heard.

Marv - Pods Like Us Podcast

https://pod.link/1534984629

Captivate.fm's Apple HLS Video Townhall

https://www.youtube.com/live/skzo4OcpTfk?si=1MifbVWPrHAOJ2hD

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