School of Podcasting: Expert Tips for Launching and Growing Your Podcast

What makes a podcast someone's favorite? I ask this every year, and here are the shows that were mentioned:Here is a list of the "Favorite" shows, as well as those who submitted them. Thanks so all who were involved.1. Nudge2. No Agenda 3.Treat Addiction Podcast 4. Daily Devotions for Busy Lives5. Harry Shearer’s Show "Le Show"6. School of Podcasting 7. Time Suck8. Too Many Tabs9. What Was That Like?10. Daily Sports History11. Walking is Fitness12. Welcome to Earth Stories13. The Pharmacist’s Voice Podcast14. The Perrysburg Podcast15. Content Creators Accountant16. Back Look Cinema17. POD News Weekly Review18. Grow The Show19. Podcast41120. Your Podcast ConsultantCommon Thread of Great ContentThe common thread is distinctive, hard-to-find content delivered by engaging hosts with real chemistry, in a well-thought-out format, that solves a listener problem and leaves them feeling something (hopeful, grounded, entertained, or relieved).Did You Get Value From The Show?If you'd like to give back some of the value you received, you can do a one-time gift, or become an awesome supporter.Gear Used On This EpisodeAccentize Dialogue Enhance PluginRode Podmic USBRodecaster DuoSchepps Omni Channel PluginCaptivate Media HostingMentioned in this episode:Don't Wait to Level Up Your ShowThinking about starting a podcast—or already 300 episodes in? Skip the rookie mistakes, save money, and level up your show with the School of Podcasting with Dave Jackson, where you get hands-on feedback, one-on-one support, and practical advice that actually improves your podcast. Not sure? Just ask Krista and Mark from practicalprepping.info Then join the School of Podcasting at www.schoolofpodcasting.com/join (or use the link below)School of PodcastingLive AppearancesI'd love to see you at these events. If you're going to be attending please let me know so we can meetup. For more information go to www.schoolofpodcasting.com/whereWhere Will I Be?

Hey, it's Dave! In this episode (which uses chapters FYI), I take you through a year-end wrap-up, sharing stories, rants, insights, and predictions about the world of podcasting. Here are the main points I covered:1. A Christmas Story with a Lesson for PodcastersI kicked things off with a humorous Christmas tale about the Cridland Boys Choir, and what happens when you keep loosening your standards just to hit a target—a not-so-subtle lesson for the podcasting world.2. Pushing Back on Changing Definitions in PodcastingI strongly disagreed with Steve Goldstein and Jay Nachlis' take that YouTube should be considered podcasts. (also TikTok, and Newsletters).I emphasized that a podcast, by definition, is audio, video, or PDF delivered via RSS—without that, it's not a podcast.3. Why "Everything Is a Podcast" is DangerousI called out the industry for letting YouTube (and now TikTok) hijack the term "podcast," muddling data and damaging clarity around the medium.4. The Hazards of Exclusive Distribution DealsI discussed how exclusive distribution (like those seen with Netflix and Spotify) leads to loss of control and audiences for podcasters.5. Warning Signs of Big Companies Manipulating PodcastingShared concerns about major corporations and what happens when their decisions are driven mainly by shareholder profits and not creators or audiences.6. AI Content Flooding the Podcast SpaceI highlighted the dangers of companies like Inception Point AI mass-producing low-value podcasts, cluttering directories, harming discoverability, and devaluing advertising rates.7.Common Missteps Hurting Podcast DiscoveryI warned about creating duplicate listings in Apple Podcasts and elsewhere, usually when moving hosts, and the importance of understanding how to migrate your show correctly.8. Show Name CollisionsI noted the confusion caused by multiple shows using the same title (like "Thinking Outside the Box") and urged creators to do their research before naming their show.9. Monetization Predictions for the Coming YearI predicted a shift toward premium/patron-supported models as podcasters get frustrated with low ad rates.10. The Fight Against "AI Slop"I advocated for collectively pushing back against low-quality, AI-generated spam content in our medium.11. Upcoming Industry MergersI think we'll see podcast-related companies merging or being acquired in the near future.12. The Reality of YouTube for PodcastersI expect many podcasters to try YouTube, realize it's not for them, and return to audio-first approaches—while some will succeed by mastering the video platform.13. A Desire for More Creativity in PodcastingI called for a resurgence of risk-taking and creative experimentation, rather than everyone following the same tired formats.Podcasts/Shows Noted:Pod News Weekly Review No Agenda ShowGood Hang with Amy Poehler Things We Learn in a Bar Work for the Wind by Aliyah Langley Steve's Blog That Drives Me NutsCaptivateTransistorBuzzsprout SupercastFor more details, behind-the-scenes commentary, and my thoughts on where the industry is headed, give this episode a listen. And as always, if you need help planning, launching, growing, or monetizing your podcast, check out schoolofpodcasting.com (coupon code: listener).Mentioned in this episode:What is Your Favorite Podcast and Why? If you could only listen to one show, what would it be, where can we find it, and WHY is it your favorite show? Don't forget to tell us a little bit about your show and where we can find it. I need your answer by December 26th, 2025Question of the MonthCheck Out Dave's Newsletter With Behind the Scenes ContentIn each issue of Podcasting Observations, I share my thoughts on what is happening in the podcasting space, my latest content, and things that have caught my eye. I also may ask for your opinion. Join the free communityPodcasting ObservationsLive AppearancesI'd love to see you at these events. If you're going to be attending please let me know so we can meetup. For more information go to www.schoolofpodcasting.com/whereWhere Will I Be?Join the School of PodcastingMark from Practical Prepping had been podcasting for a while, but after joining the School of Podcasting, his podcast grew at a faster rate. His Facebook group has over 30,000 members! Join the School of Podcasting and get access to: Step-by-step tutorials An amazing podcast community Unlimited One-On-One Coaching Join today worry-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee!School of Podcasting

Discover how podcasts can transform relationships into incredible opportunities! Hear Kim Newlove's journey of becoming a local celebrity in Perrysburg, thanks to her engaging community-based shows. Jan Almasey shares how his Apex Podcast ignited hope in his neighborhood, leading to speaking gigs and a grant for a downtown studio. Both guests emphasize the power of personal connections and creative follow-ups to grow audiences. Dive into inspiring stories that reveal the true potential of podcasting!

Welcome to the show! In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain and sharing the feedback you’ve given me over the past year. From the things you love—like honest opinions and those behind-the-scenes bloopers—to areas where you think I could improve, I’m breaking it all down.I’ll share how I process both praise and criticism, respond to some thought-provoking and even challenging listener comments, and talk openly about staying authentic on the microphone, no matter what.If you’ve ever wondered how to handle feedback for your own podcast—or you’re just curious about what really goes on behind the scenes—this episode is for you. Let’s jump in and talk about what it really means to grow through feedback!Main Points CoveredShared survey results about my audience (how you found the show, preferences on episode length, etc.)The value of opinions and why I’m not afraid to voice mine—people appreciate authenticity!Blooper reel gets love for keeping the show relatable and real.Several listeners said the show’s focus has improved—thanks for noticing!Some prefer solo episodes to interviews, and I talk about why I sometimes do interviews anyway.The “same old” show approach: people tune in for consistency, just like reruns of Hallmark movies.Trust is crucial; I work hard to give value and answers you can’t find elsewhere.You can tell when I’m tired or distracted! I agree—your energy transfers to listeners.Being award-winning isn’t about ego—my goal is always helping people.Repetition helps beginners, but seasoned podcasters would like more advanced content.Technical details: I use a Rode Podmic USB microphone into a Rodecaster Duo, recording in Hindenburg.Notes on ideas and feedback: people want more “behind-the-scenes” and technical information.Reading vs. riffing: I admit sometimes I slip into “reading mode” and work to stay spontaneous.Length controversy: some want shorter shows, some longer, but the majority like the current format.Hobbyists vs. business podcasters: I explain why my content has sometimes shifted toward podcasters wanting to grow.Ads feedback: some want fewer ads, especially repeating the School of Podcasting ad too often.Religion and “blue” humor: I discuss my Christian identity, my sense of humor, and respect differing tastes—even when jokes cross lines.You can’t please everyone—sometimes what “crosses the line” for one person is just casual for another.Suggestions for more advanced content and deeper listener Q&A segments.Advanced podcasting wisdom: find out what your audience wants, deliver with value, and keep improving.On making money: it’s possible, but requires loving the journey and standing out from the crowd.I’m always open to detailed questions—consider sending in your own for future deep dives!Websites MentionedSchool of PodcastingPodcasting Observations (my email list)PodpageAppSumoVoicemail: schoolofpodcasting.com/voicemailBiz Chicks PodcastAI Goes to CollegeLive Well and FlourishRode Podmic USBRodecaster Duo Mixer RecorderFeeding My Faith ShowMentioned in this episode:Join the School of Podcasting TodayRalph Estep Jr has over 100K Subscribers on YouTube and has FOUR shows at askralph.com. Ralph credits his success to the skills and network he has has built at the School of Podcasting. Join worry free with a 30-day Money Back Guarantee. Use the coupon code "listener" on a monthly, quarterly, or yearly subscription. Go to www.schoolofpodcasting.com/joinSchool of PodcastingWhat is Your Favorite Podcast and Why? If you could only listen to one show, what would it be, where can we find it, and WHY is it your favorite show? Don't forget to tell us a little bit about your show and where we can find it. I need your answer by December 26th, 2025Question of the MonthCheck Out Dave's Newsletter With Behind the Scenes ContentIn each issue of Podcasting Observations, I share my thoughts on what is happening in the podcasting space, my latest content, and things that have caught my eye. I also may ask for your opinion. Join the free communityPodcasting ObservationsLive AppearancesI'd love to see you at these events. If you're going to be attending please let me know so we can meetup. For more information go to www.schoolofpodcasting.com/whereWhere Will I Be?

In this episode, I circle back to a classic question:What do you wish you’d known when you started your podcast that you know now?This is a question I’ve asked in the past (shout-out to episode 768 back in 2021!), and while I received close to 20 answers then, participation was a bit lighter this time around. But don’t worry—the quality makes up for the quantity!Featured Guests & Their InsightsI’m joined by two long-time contributors—Kim Newlove and Steve Stewart—who share powerfully honest responses about their podcasting journeys.Kim Newlove:Kim shares 12 things she wishes she’d known when starting her podcasts, The Pharmacist’s Voice and the Perrysburg Podcast. She talks about everything from being able to change your podcast’s “why” as its mission evolves, to discovering the right gear (hello, Shure SM7B!), figuring out realistic production schedules, mastering research and writing demands, making effective use of Canva for episode artwork, choosing media hosts wisely, the importance of newsletters, the value of trailers, and more. She emphasizes learning as you go and assures new podcasters that it’s totally okay to fill in gaps as you build your parachute on the way down!Steve Stewart:Steve reflects on how much he wishes he’d known how to edit for content when he first began his show in 2010. His early episodes would benefit from a bit more polish, and he shares how improving his editing skills made a huge difference not just for his own podcast, but eventually for others through his work at the Podcast Editors Academy. Steve also offers an excellent resource for anyone looking for a podcast editor.My Takeaways & Thoughts:I share my own lessons learned—including the importance of setting aside regular time for learning new skills, asking for direct feedback from listeners, and being willing to adapt and evolve your show as needed. I also discuss the value of constructive criticism and how it helps me grow as a podcaster.Resources & Mentions:Kim’s Podcasts: The Pharmacist’s Voice and Perrysburg Podcast Steve’s Podcast Editing Resource: Find an Editor School of Podcasting: schoolofpodcasting.com (use coupon code “listenr” for a discount!) Media Host Recommendations: Captivate, Buzzsprout, Libsyn (coupon sopfree), Transistor, Blubrry, and now RSS.com Podcast Editors Academy: Steve Stewart and Mark Deal’s community for podcast editors.Newsletter Tools: ConvertKit (for marketing now Kit) and Substack (for sharing thoughts/content)As always, I encourage you to ask your audience for feedback, keep learning, and don’t be afraid to tweak your show or try something new. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been podcasting for years, there’s always something to learn.If you want more podcasting content, check out my other shows at powerofpodcasting.com.Thanks so much for listening! If you enjoyed the episode, I’d truly appreciate it if you shared it with a friendMentioned in this episode:What is Your Favorite Podcast and Why? If you could only listen to one show, what would it be, where can we find it, and WHY is it your favorite show? Don't forget to tell us a little bit about your show and where we can find it. I need your answer by December 26th, 2025Question of the MonthReady to Get Your Podcast Moving?Tiger Woods, Bill Gates, Oprah Winfrey all had coaches. We can help you avoid mistakes, give you constructive feedback and ensure you sound professional and make content that resonates with your audience. Join the School of Podcasting and in addition to the tutorials and community you get five hours of one-on-one coaching with me each month.School of PodcastingCheck Out Dave's Newsletter With Behind the Scenes ContentIn each issue of Podcasting Observations, I share my thoughts on what is happening in the podcasting space, my latest content, and things that have caught my eye. I also may ask for your opinion. Join the free communityPodcasting ObservationsLive AppearancesI'd love to see you at these events. If you're going to be attending please let me know so we can meetup. For more information go to www.schoolofpodcasting.com/whereWhere Will I Be?

Discover the many metrics that reveal your podcast’s true success beyond downloads. Learn how to leverage completion rates on platforms like Apple and Spotify to refine your content. Engage with your audience through unsolicited feedback and email list growth, crucial for monetization. Explore community engagement as a key indicator of impact, and discover the importance of authority through speaking invitations and backlinks. Finally, remember that the joy of podcasting and consistency can fuel your journey!

Hey, it's Dave Jackson from the School of Podcasting! In this episode, I dive into what truly delivers value to your podcast audience—drawing inspiration from an episode of the Novel Marketing podcast hosted by my buddy, Thomas Umstattd Jr..As I was driving to PodIndy, I caught myself sharing Thomas Umstattd Jr.'s episode with friends, and it hit me: why was this episode good enough for me to recommend? Today, I'm breaking down the answer to that question and sharing snippets of what I like to call "value bombs," even if that phrase is a bit cringey.Here's what I cover:Why knowing your audience inside and out is key to delivering value.How answering your audience's burning questions (like Thomas does) keeps them tuning in.The importance of overdelivering—smothering your audience in value so they want to share your show.Why direct recommendations from listeners are more powerful than any algorithm.Examples of how Thomas Umstattd Jr. teases upcoming content to keep listeners coming back.How sharing personal stories alongside expertise can connect with your audience.The role of hands-on “boots on the ground” experience versus just listing facts, and how this builds authority.Why saving your audience time or money equals big value.Teasing future episodes and weaving in stories to keep people engaged.The impact of authenticity and showing both sides of a topic.My own experiment comparing human podcasting value to AI research, and why the human touch still wins.A quick review/demonstration of the new Zoom PodTrack P4 Next and my honest thoughts on whether it’s worth upgrading from the original P4.Lessons from a membership site migration disaster—and the importance of always having a backup plan for your content.Websites Mentioned:AuthorMedia.com — Home of the Novel Marketing podcast.SchoolofPodcasting.com — My home base for podcasting education.Perplexity AI — An AI research tool I tested for podcasting advice.Sweetwater — For buying podcast and audio gear.Backblaze — Backup service I use for safeguarding files.Voomly — New video host for my membership site.Loom and Tella — Video tools for creating support and course content.Gumroad - Tool to sell digital goods.My big takeaway? To truly deliver value: know your audience, answer their questions, overdeliver, and don't be afraid to share your own stories and expertise. When you save them time, money, or frustration, you make your podcast not only worth listening to—but worth sharing.Takeaways: Delivering value means understanding what your audience actually wants and needs. When you smother your audience in value, they'll be much more likely to share your content. The absurdity of using Shopify for authors often outweighs its perceived benefits and can lead to losses. Kickstarter is surprisingly the best alternative for authors wanting to sell books without the hassle of Shopify. Mentioned in this episode:Back Friday Deal on Podcast Reviews Host: Hey, podcast creators! Are you ready to take your podcast to the next level? We have an unbeatable deal just for you! Podcast Review Service: NEW BLACK FRIDAY DEAL For a limited time, get your podcast episode and website professionally audited. Using my 30-point checklist and uncover opportunities to improve your podcast's reach and engagement! 🔍 What's Included? Podcast Episode Audit: Pinpoint key areas for improvement. Website Audit: A thorough 30-point checklist to optimize your online presence. But wait, there’s more! When you sign up, you'll receive a free month at the School of Podcasting! That's one month of top-notch podcasting training normally at $99, absolutely free! 📚 Exclusive Offer: Your School of Podcasting membership includes 5 hours of personal consulting, a service valued at $1000 alone! 🎉 All This for Just $99! Normally, you'd pay $1278 for this incredible package. But through December 31st, it's yours for just $99! 🚀 Don’t miss this chance to elevate your podcast without breaking the bank. Secure this offer today and watch your podcast thrive! Act Now! Spots are limited! Host: Visit podcasthotseat.com to claim this unbeatable offer and get started on transforming your podcast today! podcasthotseat.comPodcast HotseatWhat is Your Favorite Podcast and Why? If you could only listen to one show, what would it be, where can we find it, and WHY is it your favorite show? Don't forget to tell us a little bit about your show and where we can find it. I need your answer by December 26th, 2025Question of the MonthLive AppearancesI'd love to see you at these events. If you're going to be attending please let me know so we can meetup. For more information go to www.schoolofpodcasting.com/whereWhere Will I Be?

Join Heidi K. Begay, a musician and the founder of Red House Productions, as she shares insights on monetizing podcasts with smaller audiences. Discover how she successfully pitched to sponsors after just 30 episodes of her show, Flute360. Heidi emphasizes the importance of treating your podcast like a business and building partnerships, not just ad deals. Learn her strategies for creating tiered sponsorship packages, focusing on value over numbers, and cultivating genuine relationships with brands. Inspiration awaits for aspiring podcasters!

Explore how Ace Frehley's journey can inspire podcasters to embrace their uniqueness and authenticity. Learn that you don’t need to be the best to make an impact; relatability can be your superpower. Discover the importance of finding your distinctive edge, like Ace’s iconic smoking guitar, and the value of continuous improvement. Engage with your audience by speaking their language, and remember to protect your rights as a creator. Lastly, focus on having fun, knowing your role, and being innovative in your podcasting journey.

We're diving into the oh-so-fun world of podcast listening habits today, folks. Some people think most listeners are "Full." So how many podcasts are we actually cramming into our ears each week? And let me tell you, the answers are as varied as the podcasts themselves. From folks who binge a couple of episodes while commuting to some who claim they listen to 30-plus shows, it’s a wild ride. So grab your headphones and settle in as we break down the absurdity of our listening obsessions and peek behind the curtain of our podcasting lives.Takeaways: Podcasting might feel saturated, but there's always room for new shows and ideas. Listeners subscribe to many shows, but they often only tune into a select few episodes weekly. The average podcast listener seems to juggle multiple shows, depending on their daily activities. Even seasoned podcasters have varied listening habits that shift over time and circumstances. Finding a good podcast is like finding a needle in a haystack, but hey, it's worth the search! People are still engaging with podcasts, despite claims of saturation in the market. Contributors:thepharmacistsvoice.comperrysburgpodcast.combacklookcinema.comaskralph.comschoolofpodcasting.comstevestewart.mepracticalprepping.infotheruckersedge.comwelcometoearthstories.comschoolofpodcasting.com/pocketcastspodcasteditorsacademy.comReady to Start a Podcast?Starting a new show? Need help growing the show you have? Join the School of Podcasting worry free with a 30-day money-back guarantee.JOIN TODAYMentioned in this episode:Check Out Dave's Newsletter With Behind the Scenes ContentIn each issue of Podcasting Observations, I share my thoughts on what is happening in the podcasting space, my latest content, and things that have caught my eye. I also may ask for your opinion. Join the free communityPodcasting ObservationsJoin the School of Podcasting CommunityFeeling overwhelmed by the world of podcasting? The School of Podcasting is your sanctuary of simplicity and support. We understand that navigating equipment choices, content planning, and audience growth can be daunting. That's why we've designed our courses to break down every aspect into manageable, clear steps, making it easy for you to focus on what truly matters: your content. With access to my twenty years of experience, you'll gain the confidence to silence the chaos and amplify your unique voice. Embrace podcasting with clarity and ease—let the School of Podcasting be your guide through the noiseSchool of PodcastingWhat is Your Favorite Podcast and Why? If you could only listen to one show, what would it be, where can we find it, and WHY is it your favorite show? Don't forget to tell us a little bit about your show and where we can find it. I need your answer by December 26th, 2025Question of the MonthLive AppearancesI'd love to see you at these events. If you're going to be attending please let me know so we can meetup. For more information go to www.schoolofpodcasting.com/whereWhere Will I Be?