Podcast Answer Man

If you would like to learn how to start a podcast and still be around 12 years later, you will want to listen to this episode. In it, I share a powerful conversation with Laura McClellan, host of The Productive Woman podcast, who took my Podcasting A to Z course more than twelve years ago and has now published over five hundred episodes. Laura almost never launched her show. She recorded her first episode, then let fear stop her for six months before finally deciding to publish an episode she recorded from a closet with a handheld recorder. What followed was a body of work that has touched thousands of people around the world. This conversation is part of my Where Are They Now? series, where I sit down with students who went through my course 10 to 15 years ago to explore what it actually looks like to keep showing up with your voice over the years. Insights from My Conversation with Laura Starting a podcast can begin as a personal, creative outlet long before it becomes something that serves others. Fear and self-doubt are often part of the beginning, even for people who later become incredibly consistent creators. You do not need a platform or an audience to start. You only need a willingness to speak and press publish. A simple weekly cadence creates momentum that compounds over time. Listener feedback, even from one person, can be the fuel that keeps you going. Podcasting builds community in ways that are difficult to predict when you first begin. Taking a sabbatical or stepping away can be part of a long creative life. It is easier for many people to speak than to write, which makes podcasting a powerful medium for sharing ideas. Tools and technology continue to evolve, making it easier than ever to create and distribute high-quality content. The true reward of podcasting is not downloads or stats, but the impact your voice has on real people. Links and Resources Laura’s Podcast In Apple Podcasts Laura's Podcast in Spotify Laura McClellan’s website: TheProductiveWoman.com Podcasting A to Z What Are You Creating? podcast Where Are They Now? This is a special series inside my What Are You Creating? podcast that begins with Episode 27. In this series, I sit down with people who went through my Podcasting A to Z course more than a decade ago and chose to keep creating. These are long-term podcasters who have published hundreds, and in some cases thousands, of episodes over the last ten to fifteen years. Each conversation looks back on what it was like to begin, what it took to keep going, and how their lives and work have evolved through years of using their voice. You can find the series starting at Episode 27 by clicking here. Podcasting A to Z Laura’s story is not special because she decided to begin and kept showing up. If you have been thinking about starting a podcast, relaunching one that has gone quiet, or bringing new life to something you already created, my next session of Podcasting A to Z is starting soon. This is the same program Laura went through and it is where I personally walk you through every step of creating a great-sounding audio podcast with clarity, confidence, and a proven plan. You can find all the details at PodcastingAtoZ.com.  

In this episode, I share why podcasting conferences still matter in 2026. Attending podcast-focused conferences has shaped my entire career. From the early days of missing the very first podcasting events to the way conferences eventually accelerated my growth, my relationships, and my income, this episode is a reflection on why rooms full of podcasters change everything. For the first few years of my podcasting journey, I was creating alongside others, but I was not yet connected to the larger community of podcasters who lived and breathed this medium the way I did. That changed the moment I started attending podcasting conferences. In this episode, I walk you through: Why missing the earliest podcasting events created some of the biggest regret in my career. How attending my first industry conference shifted the trajectory of my business. What actually happens when you get in rooms with other people who love podcasting. Why conferences collapse years of learning into just a few days. How events like BlogWorld, Podcast Movement, and PodFest shaped the podcasting industry. Why I am intentionally returning to podcast conferences in 2026 and beyond. I also share a recent conversation with Nick Pavlidis, CEO of PodFest Expo, where we talk about: How he got into podcasting through conversations with his kids. Why he bought PodFest and what he is trying to protect and grow. How PodFest is different from other podcasting conferences. Why the event is built around independent creators. The Podcast Hall of Fame and why it now lives at PodFest. The changing needs of podcasters and how in-person events meet those needs. Key ideas from this episode The highest value of podcasting conferences come from the in-person relationships. Being in the same room with other creators changes how you see yourself and your work. The best opportunities in this industry almost always come from conversations, not presentations. If you keep the same people around you, your life and business will look the same in five years. PodFest is designed to serve independent podcasters first, not corporate sponsors. Resources and links mentioned PodFest Expo https://podfestexpo.com Promo Code for PodFest Use PAM for 10 percent off your ticket Podcast Hall of Fame https://podcasthall.com Ready to stop doing this alone? If this episode reminded you that podcasting is better when you are in a room with other creators, then Podcasting A to Z might be exactly what you are looking for. Podcasting A to Z is my live, step-by-step coaching experience for people who are ready to launch, relaunch, or level up their podcast. It is a group of podcasters who are showing up, asking real questions, and building real momentum together. We meet for four weeks. We solve real problems. And we move your podcast forward with clarity and confidence. The next session begins January 26. Learn more and register at: PodcastingAtoZ.com  

One of the most common questions I get from podcasters is how long a podcast episode should be, and in this episode I go much deeper than just throwing out a number. Podcast Episode Length In the first half of this episode, I answer a SpeakPipe voicemail from Nate about episode length and whether it is okay to mix short and long episodes within the same show. I explain why episode length is about how your show fits into the daily habits and routines of your listeners. The Pressure To Add Video In the second half of the episode, I respond to a voicemail from Jim about video podcasting. I talk honestly about the current hype around YouTube, Spotify video, and the pressure some people feel to turn every podcast into a video show. A New Method of Audio Production I pull back the curtain and explain exactly how I am producing Podcast Answer Man today in a way I never have before. I am recording and editing in small segments inside Adobe Audition, building the episode piece by piece, cutting, refining, and reshaping as I go. PodPage Update I also share updates about Podpage, including new features they added in response to my feedback and the SEO scoring tools that help optimize episode pages for search. I explain why Podpage has replaced the WordPress and Pretty Links systems I used for years. Links and URLs Mentioned in This Episode Podcast Answer Man - https://PodcastAnswerMan.com SpeakPipe (Affiliate) - https://PodcastAnswerMan.com/speakpipe Podpage (Affiliate) - https://PodcastAnswerMan.com/podpage RV Podcast (Mike and Jennifer Wendland) - https://rvpodcast.com TheCliff Ravenscraft Show - https://TheCliffRavenscraftShow.com Podcasting A to Z - https://PodcastingAtoZ.com A Special Invitation to Podcasting A to Z If you have been thinking about starting a podcast in 2026, or if you already have a podcast and you know it is capable of so much more, I want to personally invite you to join me in Podcasting A to Z, which begins January 26. This is four weeks of direct access to me as your coach. You get to ask me an unlimited number of questions about podcasting, business strategy, content, audience growth, mindset, and anything else that stands between you and what you want to create. If you are ready to finally bring your voice into the world or take your existing efforts to the next level, I would love to walk with you through that journey. You can learn more and register right now at  https://PodcastingAtoZ.com Let us make this the year you stop waiting and start creating.  

Join Stephen Bartlett, Entrepreneur and host of The Diary of a CEO, as he dives into the intricacies of podcasting success. He reveals his impressive earnings and emphasizes the importance of consistency and audience engagement. However, the conversation unveils the reality of his pre-existing brand recognition and network advantages. Learn about the significant prep work behind his interviews and why the claim that 'anyone can do it' can be misleading for newcomers. Cliff adds practical growth strategies for aspiring podcasters to navigate the industry.

Podpage Features For Podcasts:  In this episode, I share the full story behind why I’ve rebuilt the Podcast Answer Man website using Podpage and why I now believe it’s an excellent turn-key solution for podcasters who don’t want to deal with custom design, WordPress architecture, CSS, plug-ins, developers, maintenance, or the expense and complexity of building a fully customized site. For three decades, I've used everything from WordPress to managed VPS hosting to Kajabi to power my online presence. Recently, I discovered Podpage and decided to rebuild my PodcastAnswerMan.com site on their platform. Today’s conversation walks you through: Why I moved away from WordPress and external hosting The limitations I ran into inside Kajabi for podcast website needs How Podpage works as a complete website builder for podcasters The features that immediately sold me on switching How Podpage integrates with podcast feeds automatically Why Podpage is now the home of PodcastAnswerMan.com Practical reasons Podpage may be a good fit for your show too If you’re a podcaster looking to build a professional presence online, without spending years managing plugins, code, hosting, updates, backups, and design headaches, Podpage is the solution I recommend you to try out. Try Podpage Using My Affiliate Link You can begin testing Podpage instantly by importing your RSS feed and seeing a live preview of your show website: https://PodcastAnswerMan.com/podpage This is my affiliate link. If you sign up using it, I will earn a commission. Links Mentioned In This Episode Podpage: https://PodcastAnswerMan.com/podpage Kajabi: https://PodcastAnswerMan.com/kajabi Kit (Formerly ConvertKit): https://PodcastAnswerMan.com/kit My Podcast Reviews: - http://PodcastAnswerMan.com/reviews Ready To Launch Your Podcast? If you want to launch a podcast but feel stuck, unsure where to start, or overwhelmed by the tech, Podcasting A to Z was created for you. This is a live, four-week guided experience where I personally help you launch a great-sounding podcast with clarity and confidence. Learn more and see if Podcasting A to Z is right for you at PodcastingAtoZ.com.  

The Real Definition of a Podcast Podcasting has been around for more than two decades. You would think the definition would be settled by now. Yet here we are in 2025, and people are still confidently giving advice in large Facebook groups while misunderstanding what actually makes a podcast a podcast. In this episode, I walk you through a recent thread inside a group, devoted to the topic of podcasting, with more than 103,000 members. Someone asked a simple question about whether video is required for podcasting. I explain how after reading the answers that followed, I felt compelled to jump in. I also share the exact comments I made, along with the misinformation that prompted them. You’ll hear the real definition of a podcast. Not the internet myth. The accurate definition that has been true since the beginning. A podcast is episodic media content (Audio, Video, and/or Even PDF) that is delivered through a media enclosure in an RSS feed. That is the foundation this entire industry was built on. I also talk about why this matters. When tens of thousands of newer creators are watching these conversations, I want them to understand the medium they are working with. I want them to know why audio only is still a powerful choice. I want them to see that video can play a role, but it isn’t required. And I want them to understand the technical heart of podcasting so they can make informed decisions rather than follow trends. Inside this episode, you’ll hear: Why the debate about “audio only” versus “video podcasts” keeps resurfacing. How misinformation spreads inside creator communities. The real, technical definition of a podcast. When video files can, in fact, can be a podcast. Why audio first is still my personal preference. A mention of two podcast episodes from 2024 where I have shared thoughts on the role of video in your content strategy. A reminder that Podcasting A to Z is officially back for a new session starting January 26. Links Mentioned In The Show Episode 469 - Is It Worth Having A Video Version of Your Audio Podcast? Episode 473 - The Magic of Audio First Content Production You can submit them through SpeakPipe - http://speakpipe.com/podcastanswerman Podcasting A to Z If you are ready to launch a podcast with clarity, confidence, and a proven step-by-step workflow, my next session of Podcasting A to Z begins soon. I will personally coach you through every stage of the process so your show is live by the end of our four weeks together. Register today at PodcastingAtoZ.com

Your P4next Questions Answered After several years focused on business strategy and mindset coaching, I am stepping back into the role that shaped two decades of my work. Podcast Answer Man is officially back. This episode marks the beginning of a new chapter that honors my roots while embracing everything I have learned since. Inside this episode, I answer thirteen of the most common questions I’ve received about the Zoom PodTrak P4next. This tiny device has quickly become my favorite portable podcast studio, and today I walk you through what it can do, why it matters, and how it compares to the gear many of you already own. I also share a deeply meaningful update about my friend and mentor, Dan Miller. His impact on my life and on this community is immeasurable, and I am honored to tell you how he is being recognized on the podcast industry’s biggest stage. And near the end, I explain why now is the perfect time for me to return to Podcast Answer Man and what that means for the content I will be creating moving forward. Links Mentioned PodTrak P4next Amazon Affiliate Link Episode 474: My first impressions of the P4next Video walkthrough of the P4next on YouTube Podfest Expo Registration Link (Use Promo Code PAM for 10% off) My Keynote from Free the Dream: MindsetAnswerMan.com/free Connect If you are attending Podfest Expo, email me at Cliff@CliffRavenscraft.com and let me know. I would love to meet you in person. Podcasting A to Z Podcasting A to Z is returning one week after I get back from Podfest Expo. This four-week program is the most comprehensive podcast training experience that has ever been available. Nearly 700 students have gone through it with me as their personal coach, and many of them credit this course as the reason they launched with clarity, confidence, and long-term momentum. For four weeks, you get direct access to me. No limits on your questions. No limits on the support you can ask for. If something is confusing, I will walk you through it. If you need strategy, gear advice, workflow help, or technical direction, I will guide you step by step. If you’re launching a podcast or you want to take your existing show to a higher level, this is the place to do it. I would love to work with you and help you build something you are proud to share. Learn more at PodcastingAtoZ.com. Closing Thought Thank you for being here for this chapter of the journey. I am grateful to be back behind the mic, and I cannot wait to serve you at the highest level in the years ahead.  

In this episode I return to my Podcast Answer Man roots and share an in-depth review of my newest and most unexpected favorite piece of podcast gear. The Zoom PodTrak P4next! This tiny device delivers almost everything I rely on from the Rodecaster Pro 2 at a fraction of the size and a fraction of the cost, coming in at only $179. I'll walk you through how I discovered it, my initial skepticism, and why seeing the Zoom name made me give it a chance. I'm so glad I did. I'll share what the Zoom PodTrak P4next does, how I'm using it, why it has already earned a permanent place in my travel setup, and why I might even replace my Rodecaster Pro 2 in the studio. I recorded this episode from the front seat of my car to demonstrate how powerful this device is for portable recording. You'll hear the quality of the preamps and the impressive noise reduction capabilities in action. I talk about the power options, multitrack capability, four XLR inputs, mix-minus support, sound pads, four independently controlled headphone outputs, built in audio recorder and more. I also share the story of why this little recorder solves technical problems I have carried for years. If you have been looking for a reliable way to record multiple microphones on the road, or if you want to build a complete podcast studio that fits in a backpack, this episode will show you how simple, and inexpensive, it can be. Portable Gear Recommendations Many listeners and viewers ask for my current recommendations for a complete portable recording setup. Here's the list with affiliate links. Primary Device Zoom PodTrak P4next - https://amzn.to/4rA85fY Microphone Options Heil PR-40 - https://amzn.to/4iofavZ If you want something more portable, my long-time favorite was the Audio Technica ATR-2100. It is no longer manufactured, so my best current guess for a quality budget dynamic mic is the Rode PodMic Cardioid Dynamic Broadcast Microphone found at https://amzn.to/4rgUIBf Cables Three foot XLR mic cables - https://amzn.to/43UbqMC Stands Portable mic stand options - https://amzn.to/3MmDMJf Headphones Sony MDR-7506 - https://amzn.to/3M0apwo Replacement ear pads for the MDR-7506 - https://amzn.to/3M0gj0z Closing Thought If this episode inspires you to pick up the Zoom PodTrak P4next, I would love to hear about it. Send me an email and let me know how this episode inspired you. My email is Cliff@CliffRavenscraft.com.  

In this episode, I speak about the enduring power and benefits of audio-first content creation, specifically podcasting. Even as the media landscape continues to evolve, I firmly believe that audio podcasting remains a highly valuable and underutilized strategy for building your message, business, and influence. I share my own extensive experience in the podcasting world, having launched over 50 of my own shows and published more than 4,800 episodes over the past 19 years. I also reflect on my role as the "Podcast Answer Man," helping over 40,000 people successfully launch their own audio podcasts. Throughout the episode, I highlight the 6 key benefits that audio podcasting offers, which include: A smaller "haystack" for content discovery compared to other platforms The ubiquity of smartphones and the convenience of audio consumption The captive audience that audio content can command The ease of connecting with experts and mentors The ability to build rapport and trust over time, even while you sleep The greater influence that comes from dedicated, binge-listening audiences I also address the impact of platforms like Clubhouse and short-form video, acknowledging the shifts in attention, but emphasizing the enduring value of consistent, high-quality audio content. Ultimately, I make a strong case for the power of audio-first content creation and encourage listeners to consider implementing this strategy as a means of elevating their message and business. I invite you to reach out to me directly if you're interested in exploring opportunities to work together on your entrepreneurial journey. My email address is Cliff@CliffRavenscraft.com  

In this episode, I'm thrilled to share a proven method for quickly and effectively outlining presentations, talks, webinars, or any form of communication. At the core of this approach are nine focusing questions I learned from my public speaking mentor. Whether you're a seasoned speaker or just starting out, this episode will equip you with the tools to create clear, impactful presentations on the fly. So, let's dive in and transform the way you prepare for your next speaking engagement! Overview of the Nine Focusing Questions Cliff explains each of the nine questions, using examples to clarify their purpose: Who is the Target Audience? Identifying the specific audience helps tailor the talk to their needs. Is the Talk Persuasive or Enabling? Determines if the goal is to persuade or to enable by teaching steps. What is the Objective of the Talk? Focuses on the main purpose of the talk (e.g., enabling people to outline a presentation quickly). What Keyword Will I Use? Using a consistent keyword, like “questions,” provides a thematic anchor. What is the Pregnant Sentence? A single, clear sentence summarizing the talk's purpose to ensure clarity. What are the Rationales? The main points or reasons supporting the objective, forming the talk’s structure. What Resources Support Your Rationales? Examples, anecdotes, research, or visuals that reinforce key points. How Will You Open and Transition into the Talk? I discuss different engaging opening techniques, like storytelling or painting a vivid picture. How Will You Transition and Close the Talk? Strategies for impactful closing, including restating objectives or linking back to the opening. Links Mentioned In This Episode Link to the Next Level Mastermind Sales Page Ken Davis's book "Secrets of Dynamic Communication." The SCOORE Speaker Training is now available as an Online Course Opportunities to Work with Me If you’re ready to take your personal and professional growth to new heights, I’d love to support you on that journey. Here are some ways we can work together: 1. Join the Next Level Mastermind Imagine being part of a group of entrepreneurs who are all dedicated to pushing boundaries and achieving more. The Next Level Mastermind is a place where entrepreneurs like yourself come together to get real, focused, and supported. In this group, we meet every week to dive deep into our biggest challenges, celebrate wins, and gain powerful insights. You'll be surrounded by peers who truly understand the entrepreneurial journey—people who face the same unique challenges and make the tough decisions that come with building a business. This group gets what it's like to be where you are. Whether it's business strategy, personal growth, or just a fresh perspective, the Next Level Mastermind is here to support you. Curious to learn more? Visit NextLevelMastermind.info and secure your spot. 2. Free Course and Complimentary Coaching Sessions for Aspiring Entrepreneurs If you’re an aspiring or early-stage entrepreneur who hasn’t quite hit $10,000 in monthly revenue yet, I’ve designed a program just for you. My Building an Online Business course, packed with actionable steps, has helped countless entrepreneurs start strong. And the best part? You can access this course for free. Upon completing the course, you’ll be invited to join two complimentary sessions in my Next Level Coaching Program, where I’m here to answer any questions, tackle obstacles, and share insights that help you grow faster. Simply email me at cliff@cliffravenscraft.com with "Next Level Coaching Program" in the subject line to get started. 3. Exclusive Workshop for Entrepreneurial Couples This December, Stephanie and I are thrilled to host an intimate workshop specifically for entrepreneurial couples committed to building a life and business together. If you and your spouse are aligned on growing a business or simply want to be, this event is for you. Whether you’re working on the same business or supporting each other from different niches, we’ll work on strategies that elevate your business approach and strengthen your marriage. We’re limiting this event to just five couples, creating an environment where everyone can feel supported and connected. This is a rare opportunity to spend time with us in a small, focused setting to build a thriving, successful partnership. To learn more, email cliff@cliffravenscraft.com with "December Couples Workshop" in the subject line.