Podcast Answer Man

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.  

In this episode, I reveal the complete 11-step formula I recommend for building an online business. This valuable content—which people have paid thousands of dollars to receive in my in-person workshops—is now being shared with a wider audience. I start by sharing my own entrepreneurial journey, which began with launching a podcast as a hobby. Over time, I discovered a desire to turn my passion for content creation into a full-time business. However, I quickly realized that most people attempting to create an online business were failing because they started by creating content without first laying the necessary groundwork. Instead of following a strategic sequence, they jumped straight into content creation. As a result, I developed an 11-step formula for building a successful online business: Determine your destination - What do you want your life and business to look like? Identify where you already add value - What are your gifts, talents, and areas of expertise? Determine your ideal customer - Who has the money, problems, and willingness to pay for your solutions? Learn about your ideal customers' problems - Conduct research to deeply understand their struggles. Determine your products and services - Align your offerings with your customers' needs. Create a value proposition statement - Clearly communicate who you are and how you help. Validate your business model - Get paid customers before creating content. Create Content - Create environments for people to discover who you are and what you have to offer. Attract Your Ideal Customer - AKA Grow Your Audience Market your products and services - Develop your sales and marketing skills. Test new products and services - Continuously innovate and improve. I'm offering you free access to the $2,000 "Building an Online Business" course I've taught in-person. All you need to do is email me at cliff@cliffravenscraft.com and share a bit about your entrepreneurial journey and aspirations. If you take me up on this offer and complete the course, I'll also invite you to be my guest for two free sessions of my Next Level Coaching Program, where I can answer your questions and provide personalized guidance. Don't hesitate - email me today and let's get you on the path to entrepreneurial success!

In this value packed episode, I share 19 core essential beliefs that I believe are critical for entrepreneurs in order to achieve success. These beliefs cover a wide range of topics, from believing in your ability to succeed as an entrepreneur, to trusting that financial success will follow your passion and dedication, to being committed to continuous personal and professional growth. The 19 Core Essential Beliefs For Entrepreneurs are: I believe in my ability to succeed as an entrepreneur. I trust that financial success will follow my passion and dedication. I am confident in my unique skills and talents. I value my time and know how to prioritize effectively. I believe I am providing value to my customers or clients. I am dedicated to delivering high-quality work consistently. I am comfortable taking calculated risks. I am prepared to handle uncertainty and change. I trust my instincts and decisions. I believe in setting and achieving clear goals. I am committed to continuous personal and professional growth. I am willing to invest in myself and my business. I am capable of learning and adapting to new challenges. I embrace failure as a learning opportunity. I am open to feedback and willing to adjust my approach. I trust that persistence and hard work will lead to success. I understand the importance of building and maintaining strong relationships. I believe in the power of networking and community. I believe in maintaining a healthy work-life balance. I also reference a previous episode I did titled "How Confident Are You In The Value You Offer?" (Episode 539), which goes into depth on how to build your confidence in the value you provide. I encourage you to go back and listen to that episode if you are struggling in this area. Let’s Work On Your Beliefs Together: Today, I’m introducing a unique offering designed especially for individuals at the crossroads of change: The Life/Work Audit Session. Many wander through life with a sense of unfulfillment, sensing a deep-seated desire for change but unable to pinpoint what that change should be. You may feel stuck, knowing there’s more out there for you but not sure how to grasp it. It’s like standing at the edge of a vast landscape of possibilities without knowing which path to take. This exclusive session is tailored for those who, despite their achievements, find themselves searching for something more—something truly aligned with their deepest desires and purpose. It’s for you if you’ve ever questioned whether there’s more to life than what you’re currently experiencing. What is the Life/Work Audit Session? This one-time, in-depth session is designed to peel back the layers of your aspirations, challenges, and obstacles. It’s a deep dive into understanding what you truly want to create in this world and identifying the barriers that may be holding you back. Through insightful dialogue and guided exploration, we aim to uncover the potential and possibilities that lie beyond your current perceptions. Why consider this session? Clarity: Gain crystal-clear insight into what you genuinely want to achieve. Direction: Uncover the exact steps you need to take to move closer to your goals. Transformation: See beyond your current circumstances and unlock a vision for your life that excites and motivates you. Special Offer Details: Investment: $500 One-Time 90-Minute One-on-One Session Availability: Limited slots over the next three weeks. No Obligation: This session is a standalone offering, with no expectation for ongoing coaching. This is not just another coaching session. It’s an investment in uncovering the essence of what you seek in life and your work. Imagine waking up with a renewed sense of purpose, direction, and excitement for the possibilities that await you. Are you ready to explore the depths of your desires and unlock the fulfillment you are seeking? To reserve your slot, please reserve your spot today by clicking the link below: https://www.cliffravenscraft.com/offers/v5PqWwdd I look forward to connecting with you, Cliff