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

Episode 520 - Comparing Your Show To A Top Podcast is Not Fair to You or to Your Audience - Please Stop

This episode takes aim at a trap many new podcasters fall into: building their shows by comparing themselves to celebrity podcasts. Dave Campbell shares candidly from his experience in Ontario, Canada, hosting nine podcasts and talking daily with new creators who arrive with “stars in their eyes,” wanting a show that looks and sounds like Mel Robbins, Joe Rogan, Diary of a CEO or other top names. The core issue, he explains, is that famous hosts start at a completely different line: they already have audiences, money, teams, relationships with big guests, and promotional power. Expecting the same results when you are starting from zero is not only unrealistic, it is deeply unfair to you and to your listeners.

Throughout the episode, Dave breaks down how this unfair comparison shows up. New podcasters often believe landing big-name guests will make them famous, forgetting that well-known guests usually want big platforms, not shows with ten or twenty downloads. Celebrity hosts are often talking to people they already know, while most beginners have neither those relationships nor the reach to attract similar guests. Chasing that model leads to frustration, rejection, and the false belief that their podcast is failing, when the real problem is a mismatched expectation.

He also highlights the danger of trying to match celebrity-level production on a zero budget. Big shows rely on large teams, professional studios, multiple cameras, editors, marketers, and ad revenue that fuels everything. In contrast, many new podcasters are sitting at home in pajama pants with free software and no money coming in. Trying to jump straight into animated video, elaborate visuals, and complicated production without resources just piles on pressure and disappointment. Instead of copying the outcome of those shows, Dave urges creators to focus on what they can actually control: a clear value proposition, a consistent format, audience-led content, and smart, simple production that fits their reality.

Platform visibility is another unfair comparison he tackles. Apps and algorithms promote big-name podcasts because that’s where the money is, leaving new shows with five downloads nowhere near the “Top 100” charts. Measuring yourself against that level of exposure makes small podcasters feel invisible and discouraged. Dave argues that indie creators actually have an advantage the big shows don’t: the ability to personally connect with listeners, invite them for virtual coffees, respond to messages, and build genuine relationships that are impossible at scale. The real power of a small show lies in depth, authenticity, and trust, not in inflated numbers.

Dave closes by calling out one more subtle danger: obsessing over stats and comparing numbers with other shows. Staring at early download counts is like watching seeds you just planted, waiting for them to sprout. It doesn’t help them grow and only fuels anxiety. He recommends ignoring stats at the very beginning, focusing instead on getting good at podcasting, refining the message, and serving listeners well. The only comparison that matters, he says, is between your last episode and your next one. As a final invitation, he opens his calendar to listeners, modeling the kind of one-to-one connection that truly sets smaller podcasters apart.

Key takeaway for listeners: Comparing your new podcast to top celebrity shows is not a fair or useful benchmark. You don’t share their fame, budget, team, or platform support, and trying to copy their model will only erode your confidence and shortchange your audience. Instead, measure your progress against your own past work, build slowly and authentically, and lean into the unique advantage you have as a smaller creator: the ability to truly know, serve, and connect with your listeners one person at a time.

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Episode 519 - Uncommon Leadership Interview Series With CO-HOST Michael HunterIn this episode, Dave chats with Michael Hunter, host of The Uncommon Leadership Podcast, about leading with authenticity, structure, and play. Recording from the heart of the Midwest,

Michael reflects on nearing his 100th episode and how a microverse format where a past guest interviews him keeps conversations lively and egalitarian. He plans to rotate this format every so often to keep things fresh and fun.

Michael explains that simplicity and whimsy can coexist with depth. He shares how he built a brand with local help, naming color families and crafting visuals that feel true to his approach. The core idea is that leadership is not about suppressing emotion or erasing personality, but about bringing the whole self to work in a safe, constructive way.

In Michael’s view, everyone on a team is a potential leader, whether or not their title says so, because good leadership happens in how ideas are heard, refined, and enacted.The conversation then dives into practical podcasting structure.

Michael started with loose questions but found that a predictable framework helps guide spontaneous dialogue. He now uses a starter question plus three follow ups that weave naturally into the conversation. He stresses that the goal is a deep, collaborative exchange rather than a rigid Q and A. Feedback from guests reinforces the value of preparation, including pre meetings to align expectations and pacing.On the topic of growth, Michael emphasizes that fear and uncertainty are universal.

Even seasoned hosts and guests stumble, but that stumble is part of the process. He encourages listeners to view every journey as valid, with progress often seen through storytelling and shared experiences. Stories help translate technical or abstract concepts into relatable lessons, enabling listeners to apply insights in their own lives.

Closing reflections hinge on relationship and intention. The world needs the listener’s presence, and showing up authentically creates opportunities for joy and learning.

Michael invites audiences to explore his work at uncommonteams.com and on YouTube, where the most recent episode often represents his strongest work yet. The central message is clear leadership starts with a willingness to bring one’s unique self forward and to invite others to do the same.

Key Takeaway: True leadership emerges when the full self is brought into every space, balanced with thoughtful structure and playful curiosity.

https://uncommonteams.com/

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Spotify Wrapped Data for 2025 for The How To Podcast Series - The Daily Dave - Podcasting Tips

Dave, celebrates the impressive growth of the show in 2025 revealed through Spotify Wrapped data. Dave shares excitement about the podcast’s 712% audience growth and its rising global reach—including top listener countries like the US, Canada, Australia, the UK, and Iceland. Despite this success, a key concern is the relatively low follower rate of just 14%, prompting a heartfelt call for listeners to follow the show to help it grow even more.

Dave highlights specific episodes that resonated deeply with the audience, such as episode 392, which saw a 293% increase in listens due to its focus on the rhythm and speed of speech.

Episode 444 also stood out as it sparked the most comments, showcasing active listener engagement.

The podcast consistently outperforms many others in listener retention, comments, and shares, reflecting strong community connection and valuable content.

The episode encourages new and aspiring podcasters to start their own shows in 2026 without hesitation, emphasizing that the only thing they lack is experience, which comes from taking action rather than endless planning.

Dave offers ongoing support through his community and direct access to his calendar for guidance, rejecting high-cost courses and unnecessary hurdles.

This episode is a motivational push to launch podcasts with real momentum, build community, and harness the power of voice to connect globally.

Key takeaway for listeners: Following the podcast is crucial—beyond just listening, subscribing ensures you never miss an episode and helps grow the show's reach. More importantly, taking the step to start podcasting in 2026, leveraging the supportive community and resources available, can turn dreams into reality with action being the ultimate driver of success.

Overall, this episode combines celebration, insightful data from Spotify Wrapped, and an inspiring call to action for both current followers and those on the fence about podcasting, making it a meaningful and encouraging listen for anyone interested in podcasting’s power and community.

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Episode 518 - The Pod Savvy Guide to Podcasting, Audience Engagement, Growth, Tools and Connection with CO-HOST Steph ShoellIn this lively and insightful episode, Steph Shoell, an accomplished podcast producer and community advocate, joins as guest co-host to share her expertise on building engaging podcasts without burning out.

Steph, a founding member and former president of the Utah Podcast Coalition, brings a wealth of experience supporting podcasters through education, collaboration, and practical tools.

Steph talks about the origins of her own podcast, Pod Savvy Guide, which she started to simplify podcasting for both beginners and seasoned creators. She shares the persona behind the show — a friendly and approachable guide who offers bite-sized challenges and time-saving hacks, including AI and automation tips, to help podcasters grow and connect with their audiences.T

he conversation explores the importance of community in podcasting. Steph describes how engaging directly with listeners through tools like Instagram stories and SpeakPipe voice messages can build deep, meaningful connections. She highlights the incredible moments when listeners respond personally, sharing stories that remind podcasters there are real people touched by their content.

Steph also discusses overcoming challenges many podcasters face — from fear of getting started to feeling overwhelmed by statistics or technology. She encourages creators to define what “growth” means personally, emphasizing that connection depth and audience retention are just as important as numbers. She shares advice on how to nurture a friendly and connected listener community, especially when audiences are still small.Intriguing examples, like how podcast content helped save a listener's life and how listener generosity supported a new podcaster’s conference trip, illustrate the true power of podcasting beyond simple metrics.

Throughout, Steph’s enthusiasm and personal stories make it clear that podcasting is more than content creation — it’s about human connection, storytelling, and impact.Listeners will also find practical tips on starting solo episodes, using video and audio formats effectively, and leveraging tools like Riverside FM for easier recording and editing.

Steph discusses how launching and sustaining a local podcasting group has lifted her confidence and knowledge, fueling her ongoing passion.The episode closes with a call to action — podcasters should build relationships one listener at a time, celebrate every small success, and stay focused on the “why” behind their shows.

Steph’s Pod Savvy Guide is recommended as a rich resource to keep learning and stay motivated on the podcasting journey.

Key Takeaway:

Building a successful podcast is less about chasing stats and more about fostering genuine connections.

Engaging directly with listeners, embracing community, and focusing on personal growth create a podcast that resonates deeply with audiences and sustains creators through challenges.

Connect with Steph Shoell:

Podcast: Pod Savvy Guidehttps://pod.link/1733663277

Instagram - Pod Savvy Guide | Podcast Help (@stephshoell)

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Episode 517 - Podcasting Lessons from Think Faster, Talk Smarter by Matt Abrahams

Episode Description (Show Notes):

As a podcast host, you’re often put on the spot - reacting to guests, filling in gaps, or pivoting when things don’t go as planned. In this episode, we’re unpacking key lessons from Matt Abrahams’ book Think Faster, Talk Smarter and translating them into practical strategies you can apply to your podcast.

Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:

• How to manage mic anxiety so you sound calm and confident before hitting record.

• Simple frameworks to organize your thoughts and keep conversations flowing.

• Why active listening is your most powerful tool for creating deeper guest connections.

• The secret to using pauses effectively without fearing dead air.

• Ways to practice improvisation so you’re ready for unexpected turns.

• How to keep your delivery clear and concise so listeners stay engaged.

• Engagement techniques like storytelling and audience questions to make your show more dynamic.

• Why reflection and feedback are the fastest paths to becoming a stronger host.

Whether you host interviews, solo episodes, or panel discussions, these lessons will help you think on your feet, improve your flow, and create a more engaging experience for your audience.

Takeaway: The best podcast hosts aren’t perfect - they’re present, adaptable, and intentional. These strategies will help you sharpen your skills and connect with your audience in a more authentic way.

Grab a copy of the book via our Amazon link:

https://amzn.to/45V9ymR

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Episode 516 - Wrapping up November's National Podcast Post Month and Being Humble in a Group

Staying humble in a group setting—especially when you have more experience than others—requires intentional self-awareness and a consistent focus on service, collaboration, and respect for different viewpoints. In podcasting circles, where expertise is abundant but egos can sometimes overwhelm, adopting a posture of humility enhances group dynamics, builds trust, and opens up learning opportunities for everyone.Key Practices for Humility in Groups

• Listen to understand, not just to reply: Let others share their ideas fully before offering insight, and show curiosity about their perspectives.

• Share the stage: Make space for less experienced voices by inviting their input, deferring to others, and highlighting their contributions. If called to speak, acknowledge the work and ideas of those who paved the way and those who follow behind.

• Offer support before advice: Rather than correcting or directing, ask questions and provide encouragement. Give advice gently, only when appropriate, and in the spirit of building up others.

• Check your motives: Regular self-reflection (especially after moments of success) helps keep ambition in balance with humility. Ask: Is sharing now serving others, or just boosting self-image?.

• Practice gratitude: Thank mentors, peers, and even junior members for challenging your thinking or enriching the discussion. Expressing gratitude grounds your authority in relationships, not ego.

When to Shine vs. When to Serve

It is okay to shine and share your expertise:

• When the group truly needs your specific knowledge to move forward.

• When asked for guidance, especially if the team is stuck or at risk.

• To encourage others by showing what’s possible—if done with humility and transparency about your journey, failures, and lessons learned.

It is better to serve quietly:

• When someone else’s experience, perspective, or win deserves recognition.

• If your sharing shifts the spotlight away from the group’s mission or the collective good.

• When teaching or facilitating—ask, guide, and celebrate more than instruct or show off.

Practical Tips for Podcasters

• Use the mic to ask “What do others think?” and affirm every contribution.

• Tell stories that highlight teamwork, mistakes, and shared learning—not just personal accolades.

• Moderate panels and group episodes by redirecting focus to emerging voices and thanking guests for their knowledge.

• Avoid monopolizing episodes by preparing just one key point and then opening space for dialog.

In all, humility among podcasters means always leaving room for community, curiosity, and shared growth. The right times to shine are when your experience truly unlocks value for others; otherwise, champion service, active listening, and gratitude for the diverse stories within the group.

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Episode 515 - Join Us At The Podcast To Profit Summit - Dec 2, 3 and 4 - With CO-HOST Kathy Baldwin

If you are a podcaster, an author, a coach, or someone building a business with your voice, you need to see what is happening December 2 to 4. I brought together industry leaders who are teaching the strategies that actually move a podcast into growth and profitability.

This is not surface-level content. This is the real work behind a successful show.You will learn how to grow your audience, convert more listeners, increase visibility, and build the business behind your podcast so it becomes an asset instead of a drain.

The conversations inside this summit are the kind you normally only get in paid masterminds. These speakers are outstanding. Their knowledge and execution are on another level.

Register here:

https://podcasttoprofitsummit.com/home?am_id=david8765https://podcasttoprofitsummit.com/david-campbellhttps://podcasttoprofitsummit.com

If you are serious about building reach, authority, and revenue with your voice, this is where you need to be. The right room makes all the difference. This is the right room.____

https://howtopodcast.ca/

Episode 514 - Are You Welcoming to New Podcast Listeners in Your Current Episodes - The Daily Dave - Podcasting Tips

Episode Summary

In this quick solo episode, Dave poses a key question for every podcaster: Are you designing your show for returning fans, or for the brand new listener who just walked in on your latest release? 

Dave challenges podcasters to consider the experience of someone discovering the show for the first time—even at episode 100.

The New Listener Experience

• Every episode could be someone’s first time hearing your podcast.

• Don’t assume every listener knows the backstory, inside jokes, or previous highlights.

• Take time to welcome and introduce yourself, your show, and the community—even if it feels repetitive.

Balancing Returning and New Audience

• While analytics and long-time fans matter, make new arrivals feel included and at home.

• Be mindful not to dive straight into content without an introduction; a short, genuine welcome goes a long way.

Practical Advice for Podcasters

• Listen back to your own episodes and make sure new listeners won’t feel lost.

• Ensure your intros set the tone, introduce your purpose, and make everyone feel like they belong.

• Building a community means continuously welcoming both loyal listeners and those just joining.

Community Invitation

• Dave encourages listeners who need help with intros or editing to reach out at howtopodcast.ca.

• Invitations to join as a guest co-host and share your own podcast journey with the How To Podcast family.

Key Takeaway

Always design your show with both loyal fans and brand new listeners in mind. Welcoming new people grows your community and helps your podcast stand out as warm, inviting, and listener-focused.

Need advice or editing help?

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Episode 513 - Sheding Some Light With This Bright Idea on Proper Microphone Use - The Daily Dave - Podcasting Tips

Dave welcomes both new and longtime listeners with his signature warmth, then dives into a practical episode all about microphone technique. Drawing on decades of experience in music and audio, he shares a simple, non-technical approach to setting up your mic—helping you sound your best with every episode.The Flashlight Analogy: Understanding Your Microphone

• Think of your microphone as a flashlight:

  • Close up: The “beam” (sound pickup) is tight and focused.

  • Further away: The pickup is broader, catching more room sound.

• Finding the right distance helps achieve a natural, clear sound.

Mic Placement Tip

• Try positioning your mic so it points across your face, not directly at your mouth or eyes.

• This technique can reduce harsh sounds and sibilance, creating a smoother recording.

• Every mic and voice are different—experiment with placement to discover your “sweet spot.”

Practice and Listen Back

• Before a real session, practice by recording yourself with different mic setups.

• Narrate your test (“the mic is on the right side,” “now on the left,” “now far away”) to compare results.

• Listen to the recordings and choose the position that sounds best for your voice and space.

Goldilocks Principle of Audio

• Not too close, not too far—find the “just right” distance and angle that works for your setup.

Encouragement and Support

• Dave encourages everyone, from first-time podcasters to seasoned pros, to seek feedback and strive for continuous improvement.

• He invites listeners to reach out for advice or a friendly ear at howtopodcast.ca.

Quick Tips

• Always practice mic technique before hitting record.

• Treat your mic like a flashlight: experiment, listen, and refine your setup for every episode.

• Consistent setup leads to consistent audio quality across episodes.

• Need feedback or help? Visit howtopodcast.ca.

Let’s light up the world with your podcast—one episode at a time!

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Episode 512 - What the 18th-century German scientist Christoph Lichtenberg Says About What is Real and What is True And How This Impacts Podcasting

The quote "what is new is rarely true and what is true is rarely new" has been attributed to Christoph Lichtenberg, although it appears in discussions and writings from a range of sources.

Lichtenberg was an 18th-century German scientist and satirist known for his aphorisms, and variations of this phrase are often linked to him in philosophical and literary contexts

The quote “what is new is rarely true and what is true is rarely new” highlights the reality that original podcast ideas are uncommon, and most successful methods are tried-and-tested.

For podcasters, this means that innovation is valuable, but foundational principles and reliable practices are what usually lead to lasting success.

Key Points for Podcasters from the Quote

Lean on Proven Processes

Most established podcasting workflows remain effective—planning, outlining, consistent scheduling, and editing are time-tested practices that help creators launch and sustain quality shows.

• Following a classic structure: idea generation, research, outline, record, edit, publish, and market gives dependable results.

• Effective episode formats (solo, interview, co-hosted) are rarely groundbreaking, but they consistently engage audiences when executed well.

Innovate Carefully and Purposefully

Truly new ideas in podcasting can stand out but are rarely instantly successful; untested formats risk missing what audiences reliably value.

• Unique angles, creative segments, or experimental approaches should be built atop solid foundational practices.

• Offer fresh perspectives or voices without abandoning what listeners expect: great sound, clear structure, and valuable content

Focus on Authenticity and Consistency

What remains “true” is the importance of building trust and connection with listeners, not chasing novelty for its own sake.

• Regular schedule, authentic conversation, well-researched topics, and continuous improvement underpin almost every successful podcast.

• Authenticity in topic selection, presentation style, and audience engagement consistently yields loyal listeners.

Respect Listener Habits

Most listeners are attracted to podcasts that reliably deliver what they expect—clarity, value, and quality—rather than reinventing the wheel each episode.

• Too much focus on being “new” risks alienating an audience looking for reliability and comfort.

  Best Practice Takeaways

  • Use established podcasting workflows that have proven their value to thousands of creators before.

  • Inject thoughtful innovation, but don’t abandon classic elements like clear episode structure, quality audio, and relevance.

  • Value consistency and authenticity over chasing the “new.”

  • Experiment strategically and build upon what is proven, allowing incremental growth rather than upheaval.

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