School of Podcasting - Podcast Tips to Plan, Launch, Grow Your Podcast

Ozzy Osbourne's recent passing has got me feeling all sorts of ways. I mean, who didn’t grow up jamming to ‘Crazy Train’ or wishing we could be half as cool as him? This isn’t just about mourning a rock legend; it’s about learning from the antics of a guy who built an empire on being unapologetically himself. So today, I’m diving deep into 15 lessons that podcasters can snag from Ozzy’s playbook. From being true to yourself (and not giving a hoot about the haters) to surrounding yourself with good people (looking at you, Sharon), I’m spilling the tea on how to keep your podcast alive and vibrant. Plus, I’ll share some wild stories about Ozzy’s crazy life that’ll make you laugh and cringe at the same time. Buckle up, because we’re about to rock this podcast world with some serious, Ozzy-inspired vibes!Mentioned In This EpisodeWDW Radio PodcastLou Monegello's TourBattery Organizer (aff)School of PodcastingTakeaways: Ozzy Osbourne may have died, but his legacy of being unapologetically himself lives on forever. Lessons from Ozzy include being true to yourself and ignoring the critics who just don't get it. Surrounding yourself with good people is key; even Ozzy had Sharon in his corner. Don't sweat perfection when creating content; just get out there and do it! Mentioned in this episode:Question of the Month August 2025Mark form Podcastbranding.co wants to know if you've ever hired someone to help you with your podcast? If so, for what purpose and were you satisfied with the outcome? Go to www.schoolofpodcasting.com and answer the question by August 22nd 2025. When you answer the question, tell us a little bit about your show (elevator pitch) and where we can find it (your website so I can link to it)Question of the MonthMy Live AppearancesI can't wait to meet and hang out with you! Check out my schedule at www.schoolofpodcasting.com/where and if you'd like me to speak at your online or in person event, contact me at www.schoolofpodcasting.com/contactWhere Will I Be?Can You Do Me a Favor? Vote For Me!This only takes a minute, if you could go to www.podcastawards.com and vote for the School of Podcasting in the education category -it would mean the world to me. Podcast AwardsPodcasting In Six Weeks - Register Today!Ever wanted to start your own podcast but didn't know where to begin? Imagine creating and launching your podcast in just six weeks! Join our exclusive online class 'Podcasting in Six Weeks' starting August 7th. With only six spots available, this is your chance for personalized, live group coaching at a discounted rate. Prepare to go back to school and turn your podcasting dreams into reality. Sign up today and make your voice heard! Visit podcastinginsixweeks.comPodcasting in Six Weeks

Traci DeForge is here to her knowledge about podcasting for your business without feeling like a total salesy weirdo. She’s busting the myth that you need 10,000 downloads to make a buck—seriously, you can start monetizing with just 1,500 listeners. We talk about how to weave your podcast into your business strategy without sounding like a used car salesman. If you’ve ever felt awkward about asking for sales, Traci’s got the lowdown on how to do it without the cringe. So, grab your earbuds and get ready to learn how to turn your podcast into a money-making machine while keeping it real and relatable!Takeaways: Most podcasters wrongly believe they need to drop $10k to start monetizing. Traci DeForge busted the myth that you need 10,000 listeners; 1,500 can do it too! Podcasting is all about strategy; it’s not just talking into a mic, folks! You've got to view your podcast as part of your whole business model, not just a side gig. Feeling salesy? Get over it! Your mindset can really change how you sell. If you don't ask for what you're worth, you might be leaving money on the table! Links referenced in this episode:schoolofpodcasting.comproduceyourpodcast.compodpage.comSecrets of Closing the Sale - Zig Ziglar (Audible)Traci DeForgeHelping business owners & brands turn their expertise into strategic podcasts that build authority, attract qualified leads & drive revenue. Full-service, 360° podcast solutions from strategy to sponsorship.As Founder & CEO of Produce Your Podcast, I help business owners, brands, and thought leaders transform their expertise into strategic media platforms that build authority, attract qualified leads, and generate revenue. From early-stage startups to my work with Fortune 500 companies, including Google, Hilton, Weight Watchers International, Microsoft, and British Airways, I am internationally recognized for identifying successful business development opportunities for innovative growth. Recognized as a Top 10 Podcasting Services Provider by Media & Entertainment Business Review (2024), we’ve launched and managed over 160 B2B and B2C podcasts, supporting startups and global brands across the technology, legal, finance, and healthcare sectors.With 30+ years of experience in award-winning media production, broadcast radio, and business development, I developed a full-service podcasting model delivering broadcast-quality production, strategic brand positioning, and measurable business outcomes. From concept to launch, audience growth to monetization, our proprietary workflow equips clients with a turnkey system for success, aligned with their marketing, sales, and content creation goals. READ MOREMentioned in this episode:Question of the Month August 2025Mark form Podcastbranding.co wants to know if you've ever hired someone to help you with your podcast? If so, for what purpose and were you satisfied with the outcome? Go to www.schoolofpodcasting.com and answer the question by August 22nd 2025. When you answer the question, tell us a little bit about your show (elevator pitch) and where we can find it (your website so I can link to it)Question of the MonthCan You Do Me a Favor? Vote For Me!This only takes a minute, if you could go to www.podcastawards.com and vote for the School of Podcasting in the education category -it would mean the world to me. Podcast AwardsPodcasting In Six Weeks - Register Today!Ever wanted to start your own podcast but didn't know where to begin? Imagine creating and launching your podcast in just six weeks! Join our exclusive online class 'Podcasting in Six Weeks' starting August 7th. With only six spots available, this is your chance for personalized, live group coaching at a discounted rate. Prepare to go back to school and turn your podcasting dreams into reality. Sign up today and make your voice heard! Visit podcastinginsixweeks.comPodcasting in Six WeeksMy Live AppearancesI can't wait to meet and hang out with you! Check out my schedule at www.schoolofpodcasting.com/where and if you'd like me to speak at your online or in person event, contact me at www.schoolofpodcasting.com/contactWhere Will I Be?

Are Spotify and YouTube poisoning podcasting?I keep hearing how "What used to work in the past - doesn't work anymore? Well I disagree. Making great content that resonates with your audience has been around since the early days of radio, and if it make them FEEL something, you've got something that is golden. Giant companies always put profit over people, and with the latest AI band called the Velvet Sundown which has six figure streams. Why are AI Bands better than real musicians?They don't get sickThey don't complain about not getting paidThey can provide more music, more frequentlySo if the world starts to accept AI artists, if you're Spotify, why wouldn't you introduce an AI podcaster to deliver an evergreen topic? Spotify could promote it to make it popular and then run advertising against it and not have to worry about splitting the revenue with a podcaster.Both YouTube and Spotify entice you in with free services, and then once you grow dependent on them, they can do whatever they want and you don't have a lot of control. If you say the wrong thing, you're kicked off the platform. Rosanne Barr (who is Jewish) for saying something deemed hate speech about Jewish people while she is herself Jewish. It was Sarcasm. Rosanne started her career as a comedian. Big Companies Often Put Profit Over Doing the Right ThingPurdue Pharma has been accused of mislabeling opioids that lead to lots of overdoses. Johnson and Johnson faced lawsuits about cancer and talcum power. Wells Fargo was fined millions for having employees open millions of account without the customer consent. I could go on and assemble a very long list. Just keep your eyes open, and watch as these companies that have come into podcasting with free offerings to interrupt the space, take control and bend it to suit their needs (not those of the host or the listener).Sponsor Magnet Book ReviewThe Ultimate Book on Sponsorships/Partnerships, "Sponsor Magnet: How to Attract, Price, & Execute Your Dream Brand Partnerships" by Justin Moore. It is THE book for those looking to create partnerships with brand (not just a one time payment). The book shows you how to find out who to talk to, what to say, how to say it, and to overdeliver to they keep sponsoring the show. The audio book has bonus content that was very cool as you hear people talking about putting the strategies into practice. You can get it on Audible if you're more of a listener than reader.Takeaways: If you're hunting for sponsors, check out the book 'Sponsor Magnet' - it's a game changer. Podcasts don't need to follow trends; old-school content is still valuable and effective. Big corporations could ruin podcasting, so let's just not invite them to the party. YouTube is saying things that make no sense. A CD is not a cassette. Spotify seems to have issue always delivering all the facts about their activities.Hashtags no longer carry any clout on instagram per Brock JohnsonA podcast is audio, video or pdf delivered via RSSPodcasting existed before people put in advertisements, and it will exist if advertising goes away. Advertising is ONE way to monetize.Links referenced in this episode:schoolofpodcasting.comgraphtreon.com (Top Podcasters using Crowd Funding)profitfromyourpodcast.comCorporate.fm Movie on AmazonEverlong on Howard SternKevin O’Leary on Diary of a CEOSponsor Magnet BookPodcast Hosting Changes GraphBuild Your Tribe - Instagram SEOOxford Road What is a Podcast?Attention and Trust Report from Sounds ProfitableMonetizing a Niche Podcast with Ray Arnott SOP 977Mentioned in this episode:Can You Do Me a Favor? Vote For Me!This only takes a minute, if you could go to www.podcastawards.com and vote for the School of Podcasting in the education category -it would mean the world to me. Podcast AwardsYou Have A Message That Needs to Be HeardYou have a message that needs to be shared. Discover the art of podcasting at the School of Podcasting. We teach you to shine a light on your stories, inspiring others one episode at a time. Let your voice be your legacy. Go to www.schoolofpodcasting.com/joinSchool of PodcastingQuestion of the Month August 2025Mark form Podcastbranding.co wants to know if you've ever hired someone to help you with your podcast? If so, for what purpose and were you satisfied with the outcome? Go to www.schoolofpodcasting.com and answer the question by August 22nd 2025. When you answer the question, tell us a little bit about your show (elevator pitch) and where we can find it (your website so I can link to it)Question 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 ObservationsMy Live AppearancesI can't wait to meet and hang out with you! Check out my schedule at www.schoolofpodcasting.com/where and if you'd like me to speak at your online or in person event, contact me at www.schoolofpodcasting.com/contactWhere Will I Be?

Juggling podcasting and personal life can feel like trying to balance on a three-legged stool while juggling flaming torches. In this episode, I look into the not-so-secret ingredients for maintaining a healthy work-life balance as a podcaster. We kick things off with a hard-hitting question: what happens when your love for podcasting starts to mess with your health and relationships? It's a real thing, folks, and I’ve seen it happen. I share my personal stories, including the ups and downs of my own marriages, and throw in some sarcastic wisdom learned from the school of hard knocks. I'm not claiming to be relationship experts, but we’ve been around the block a few times. I break down a simple yet effective framework for content creators: health, attitude, and support. Yes, I know, it sounds like a motivational poster, but stick with me. If you're not healthy enough to hit record, or if your attitude sounds like you just woke up on the wrong side of the bed, guess what? Your podcast is gonna suck. And don’t even get me started on the importance of having a supportive partner who doesn’t roll their eyes every time you mention your latest podcast episode. I share tips on how to set expectations with your spouse, maximize your time, and avoid those sneaky time-sucking distractions like binge-watching YouTube shorts at 2 AM. Trust me, your future self will thank you. By the end, you'll walk away with practical advice on how to keep your relationships intact while you chase your podcasting dreams. From date nights to timeouts during arguments, I’ve got you covered. It’s all about being intentional and proactive in nurturing your personal life while you’re busy building your podcast empire. And let’s be real, no one wants to end up in a messy divorce because they spent too much time talking to a mic instead of their partner. So grab your headphones and let’s get to it!Links referenced in this episode:schoolofpodcasting.comnotejoy.comtodoist.comvidiq.comVidIQ Short Video About Thumbnails and Titles.schoolofpodcasting.com/contactThe Seven Habits of Highly Effective People BookLove and Respect: The Love She Most Desires; The Respect He Desperately NeedsMentioned 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 ObservationsMy Live AppearancesI can't wait to meet and hang out with you! Check out my schedule at www.schoolofpodcasting.com/where and if you'd like me to speak at your online or in person event, contact me at www.schoolofpodcasting.com/contactWhere Will I Be?Podcasting In Six Weeks - Register Today!Ever wanted to start your own podcast but didn't know where to begin? Imagine creating and launching your podcast in just six weeks! Join our exclusive online class 'Podcasting in Six Weeks' starting August 7th. With only six spots available, this is your chance for personalized, live group coaching at a discounted rate. Prepare to go back to school and turn your podcasting dreams into reality. Sign up today and make your voice heard! Visit podcastinginsixweeks.comPodcasting in Six WeeksCan You Do Me a Favor? Vote For Me!This only takes a minute, if you could go to www.podcastawards.com and vote for the School of Podcasting in the education category -it would mean the world to me. Podcast AwardsQuestion of the Month August 2025Mark form Podcastbranding.co wants to know if you've ever hired someone to help you with your podcast? If so, for what purpose and were you satisfied with the outcome? Go to www.schoolofpodcasting.com and answer the question by August 22nd 2025. When you answer the question, tell us a little bit about your show (elevator pitch) and where we can find it (your website so I can link to it)Question of the Month

In this month's "Question of the Month," I wanted to explore the discrepancy between Spotify's perceived dominance and the actual listening habits of podcasters. Despite frequent headlines touting Spotify as the number one streaming platform, my personal statistics and community feedback tell a different story. By surveying my audience about their platform preferences, I uncovered that Apple remains the top choice for most listeners, challenging the narrative often presented in media reports about Spotify's market leadership.Thanks to everyone who chimed in!Gear Review: HollyLand Lark M2s Wireless Lavalier SystemQuick Take:I was genuinely impressed by the Holly Land Lark M2s - this tiny microphone packs a surprisingly warm sound. At around $150, it's a solid investment for podcasters and content creators.Key Features:Compact wireless lavalier microphone systemVersatile receiver with USB-C and headphone jack connectivityCompatible with phones and recorders (I used my Rodecaster Duo)Built-in noise reduction appOption to record two mics on separate channels for post-production editingPro Tip: Grab this from Sweetwater. They offer:Extended warrantiesKiller customer serviceCompetitive pricingFree shipping (often cheaper than Amazon)FREE CANDY<<<<<Noise Reduction: The app's built-in feature is decent - not perfect, but definitely helpful. Pro move? Set up both mics on separate channels so you can fine-tune your audio in post-production.Bottom Line: The Lark M2s is a compact, versatile mic system that punches above its weight. Definitely worth checking out for podcasters looking to upgrade their audio game.Takeaways: The new Hollyland Lark M2S microphone sounds surprisingly warm, which totally blew my mind! Spotify claims to be the number one podcast platform, but the real stats tell a different tale. Charging guests to appear on your podcast? Brace yourself, the FTC has some rules you need to follow! Using music in your podcast? Be careful, because Spotify's bots don’t care about your permissions! It's always a good idea to double-check the facts you find online, especially from big companies! Exercise is tough, but once you get through it, you'll feel so proud of yourself, like you just conquered a mountain! Links referenced in this episode:Hollyland Lark M2S Wireless Lavalier Systemschoolofpodcasting.comthehoodratrecap.comcreateartpodcast.comfindapodcastabout.xyzpassacls.comtkbpodcaststudios.comcastahead.net Deal Casters PodcastFinancially Confident ChristianGrit and Growth BusinessTruth Unveiled with RalphBecause of My PodcastAkron PodcastFeeding My FaithPodcast Hot SeatPodcast Review ShowPodcast Rodeo ShowPodcast Website TipsProfit From Your PodcastFuture of PodcastingYour Podcast ConsultantHeartbeat Community ToolCircle Community ToolSwitchy (Dave's favorite marketing tool)Mentioned in this episode:Can You Do Me a Favor? Vote For Me!This only takes a minute, if you could go to www.podcastawards.com and vote for the School of Podcasting in the education category -it would mean the world to me. Podcast AwardsMy Live AppearancesI can't wait to meet and hang out with you! Check out my schedule at www.schoolofpodcasting.com/where and if you'd like me to speak at your online or in person event, contact me at www.schoolofpodcasting.com/contactWhere Will I Be?Question of the Month August 2025Mark form Podcastbranding.co wants to know if you've ever hired someone to help you with your podcast? If so, for what purpose and were you satisfied with the outcome? Go to www.schoolofpodcasting.com and answer the question by August 22nd 2025. When you answer the question, tell us a little bit about your show (elevator pitch) and where we can find it (your website so I can link to it)Question 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 ObservationsPodcasting In Six Weeks - Register Today!Ever wanted to start your own podcast but didn't know where to begin? Imagine creating and launching your podcast in just six weeks! Join our exclusive online class 'Podcasting in Six Weeks' starting August 7th. With only six spots available, this is your chance for personalized, live group coaching at a discounted rate. Prepare to go back to school and turn your podcasting dreams into reality. Sign up today and make your voice heard! Visit podcastinginsixweeks.comPodcasting in Six Weeks

So, today I'm diving into the mess that can be podcast burnout. You know, that moment when your favorite hobby morphs into a job you dread? Yeah, we’ve all been there. We're chatting about big names like Marc Maron and others who decided to call it quits and how that’s not just okay, but totally legit. Spoiler alert: sometimes stepping back is the best move you can make. I’ll sprinkle in some sarcasm and laughs as we explore the absurdity of it all—because let’s face it, if we can’t laugh at our struggles, what’s the point, right? If you've been thinking about starting a podcast but feel it's too crowded, realize all those podcasters who started back in 2005 might be being pulled in new directions that have them thinking about podcast retirement.Takeaways: Creative projects can sometimes feel like an endless cycle of stress and burnout. It's totally okay to step back from podcasting if it stops being fun for you. Many successful podcasters have experienced burnout, and it's a common issue in the industry. Managing expectations is crucial; don't expect overnight success when building an audience. Life changes, like welcoming a new baby, can drastically affect your podcasting ability and energy. Always remember: adding responsibilities means subtracting your fun, so be careful what you take on. Mentioned In This ShowMarc Maron Announces He's Ending the WTF ShowRob Walch Talks Marc Maron on the FeedErik K Johnson End Podcast Talent CoachYouTuber Tom Scott Says Goodbye 6.5M SubscribersYouTuber The Game Theorist Says Goodbye 19.6M SubscribersYouTuber Caylus says goodbye to 18.7M SubscribersWhat Makes This Show Ggreat? - Marc Maron Edition sop705My Spouse Has Dementia Show with Zita ChristianDaniel J. Lewis is BACK!Clockify Free Time TrackerMore insights at schoolofpodcasting.com/989Mentioned in this episode:Podcasting In Six Weeks - Register Today!Ever wanted to start your own podcast but didn't know where to begin? Imagine creating and launching your podcast in just six weeks! Join our exclusive online class 'Podcasting in Six Weeks' starting August 7th. With only six spots available, this is your chance for personalized, live group coaching at a discounted rate. Prepare to go back to school and turn your podcasting dreams into reality. Sign up today and make your voice heard! Visit podcastinginsixweeks.comPodcasting in Six WeeksCan You Do Me a Favor? Vote For Me!This only takes a minute, if you could go to www.podcastawards.com and vote for the School of Podcasting in the education category -it would mean the world to me. Podcast AwardsQuestion of the Month August 2025Mark form Podcastbranding.co wants to know if you've ever hired someone to help you with your podcast? If so, for what purpose and were you satisfied with the outcome? Go to www.schoolofpodcasting.com and answer the question by August 22nd 2025. When you answer the question, tell us a little bit about your show (elevator pitch) and where we can find it (your website so I can link to it)Question of the MonthMy Live AppearancesI can't wait to meet and hang out with you! Check out my schedule at www.schoolofpodcasting.com/where and if you'd like me to speak at your online or in person event, contact me at www.schoolofpodcasting.com/contactWhere Will I Be?

Discover why some podcasts thrive while others fade away, with 60 to 80% found through word of mouth. The secret? Emotional connections and compelling narratives that resonate with listeners. Uncover how music can heighten storytelling and make content irresistible to share. Explore essential elements of shareable content, like relatability and emotional impact. Plus, get insights into portable podcasting with the user-friendly Zoom PodTrack P2, and learn how to transition from learning to actionable success.

Bri Leever, a community building strategist at Ember Consulting and host of 'Dear Bri,' shares her wealth of knowledge on nurturing thriving podcast communities. She discusses the surprising dynamics of free versus paid communities and emphasizes that focusing on audience needs is essential. Listeners learn that solo podcasters can succeed without large teams, the importance of communication skills, and the nuances of membership engagement. Bri also explores various community models, offering invaluable insights for aspiring podcasters.

Join Thomas Umstadt Jr., the mastermind behind Novel Marketing, as he breaks down the art of transforming podcasts into engaging YouTube content. He shares his journey from simple audiograms to dynamic video episodes, emphasizing the critical role of catchy titles and vibrant thumbnails in attracting viewers. Thomas dives into essential production tips, gear recommendations, and the significance of visual elements for audience engagement. Plus, he offers insightful advice on audience demographics and effective monetization strategies that could elevate your podcast game!

Today, we are talking about keeping your audience listening after they press play. This starts with an opening hook. To have hooks that grab your audience and make them want to hear your episode, there are some common characteristics:Relevance: A good hook connects directly to the theme or topic of your episode. It should hint at what’s to come without giving everything away.Emotional Impact: Evoking curiosity, excitement, or even controversy can create an emotional connection with your audience, prompting them to stay tuned.Clarity and Brevity: Your hook should be clear and to the point. Complexity can confuse listeners and cause them to lose interest.Promises Value: Whether it’s information, entertainment, or inspiration, a strong hook promises something valuable to the listener.All of this relies on you knowing who your target audience is. A hook that works on a business podcast may not work on your gaming show. Ever wondered why some podcasts just suck you in while others make you want to run for the hills? Well, let’s break it down, shall we? The opening hook of your podcast can make or break your listener retention. You could have the most riveting content planned, but if your intro is as exciting as watching paint dry, good luck keeping anyone around. We’re talking about how a killer hook can capture attention faster than a cat meme on social media. Dive into the psychology of why people stick around and learn five solid strategies to craft hooks that actually work. Spoiler alert: it’s not just about being clever. It’s about being relevant, emotional, and concise. So, grab your headphones, and let’s unravel the magical art of the podcast hook that’ll have your audience begging for more!Takeaways: A killer hook can make or break your podcast's first impression, so choose wisely! To keep listeners glued to your podcast, start with something that sparks curiosity and relevance. Your opening should promise value; otherwise, listeners might just hit the dreaded 'stop' button. Whether it's a shocking fact or a relatable story, your hook needs to resonate with your audience. 5 Example Hook Types:Engaging Questions: Drawing listeners in by voicing their struggles or curiositiesPersonal Anecdotes: Using brief, vulnerable stories that are directly relevantShocking Facts: Leveraging surprising statistics or statements (without clickbait)Intriguing Scenarios: Creating hypothetical situations that spark imaginationRelatable Problems: Addressing common issues faced by the audienceMentioned in This EpisodeSchool of PodcastingAsk the Podcast CoachPower of Podcasting NetworkPodcast Review ShowPodcast Hook Example Cheat SheetAudience Survey: schoolofpodcasting.com/survey25Mentioned in this episode:Can You Do Me a Favor? Vote For Me!This only takes a minute, if you could go to www.podcastawards.com and vote for the School of Podcasting in the education category -it would mean the world to me. Podcast Awards2025 Audience SurveyJoin the #1 Podcast Education Site - The School of PodcastingAdam Curry is the co-founder of Podcasting (and the co-host of the No Agenda Show). When asked about learning how to podcast Adam said, "The place to go with the guy who has taught more people how to podcast than anybody I know - Dave Jackson, School of Podcasting.com"School of Podcasting