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

This episode serves as a guide for content creators to learn from the mistakes of the movie industry. It advocates for creativity, genuine audience engagement, and strategic marketing that resonates with today's consumers.The movie industry is falling fast. I share my childhood memories of the joy of watching movies and how attending a movie now has changed dramatically. We need to understand the power of audience engagement, noting that the film industry is often playing it safe with sequels and familiar franchises (a strategy that may not always yield positive results). As podcasters, we need to note these trends and craft our content thoughtfully, ensuring that we do not fall into the trap of repeating what has already been done. Podcasters can stand out in an increasingly crowded marketplace by fostering authentic connections with listeners and providing innovative, compelling narratives. Got Feedback On This Episode?I'd love to hear what you thought about this episode. If you have a minute or two, it's less than five questions and works great on your phone or computer. Share Your ThoughtsTakeaways: The movie industry is struggling, and podcasters can learn valuable lessons from this decline. Creating a strong community experience can enhance audience engagement for both movies and podcasts. Making the consumption of your content easy is crucial for keeping your audience satisfied. Trailers should accurately represent the film's content to avoid disappointing viewers. Audience engagement and feedback are essential for improving movie and podcast content. Podcasters should avoid the common pitfalls of the movie industry to ensure success. Mentioned In This EpisodeJoin the School of Podcasting CommunityProfit From Your Podcast BookPower of Podcasting NetworkDave's YouTube ChannelDave's Podcasting NewsletterBuy Dave a CoffeePut Dave In Your PocketWhere Will Dave Be?Question of the Monthadmanager.ncM.comMentioned in this episode:You 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 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 Month

Starting a podcast can feel overwhelming, but understanding the essential questions to address can simplify the process significantly. Join Dave Jackson as he coaches Alex Lorre through a consulting call, highlighting crucial considerations for both aspiring and established podcasters. From identifying your target audience to defining the goals of your show, this conversation covers the fundamental aspects that every podcaster must contemplate. Dave emphasizes the importance of a clear podcast name that resonates with listeners and conveys the intended content effectively. Additionally, the episode explores monetization strategies, creative formats, and the necessary tools to help your podcast thrive in a competitive landscape.Got Feedback On This Episode?I'd love to hear what you thought about this episode. If you have a minute or two, it's less than five questions and works great on your phone or computer. Share Your ThoughtsMentioned In This EpisodeJoin the School of Podcasting CommunityProfit From Your Podcast BookPower of Podcasting NetworkDave's YouTube ChannelDave's Podcasting NewsletterBuy Dave a CoffeePut Dave In Your PocketWhere Will Dave Be?Question of the Monthschoolofpodcasting.comlearnpodpage.comaskthepodcastcoach.compodpage.comcanva.comnamecheap.comcoolerwebsites.combuzzsprout.comcaptivate.fmlibsyn.comblubrry.comrss.comconvertkit.commailerlite.comheartbeat.chatElgato Webcam ProGVM Lighting KitDescriptRed CircleZoom Podtrak P4Takeaways: Starting a podcast requires answering fundamental questions about your goals and audience. Understanding your niche and how to differentiate your podcast is crucial for success. Consider using a name that clearly conveys the podcast's theme to attract listeners. Engaging with local businesses can provide sponsorship opportunities for your podcast. Monetization strategies can include affiliate marketing, ads, and creating a community. Utilizing tools like podpage can simplify the creation of a professional podcast website. Mentioned in this episode:I'd Love T See you!I will be at the following events: November 8, Podindy.com Whiteland Indiana January 15-18 Podfest Multimedia Expo in Orlando, Fl February 17–20, 2026 NRB 2026 International Christian Media Convention, Nashville, TennesseeWhere Will I Be?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 ObservationsPodcast Hot SeatAttention podcasters! Are you ready to take your show to the next level? Introducing Podcast Hot Seat, the ultimate resource for podcasters who want to elevate their game. Just like a friend who tells you you've got spinach in your teeth, we're here to give you the honest feedback you need to shine. At podcasthotseat.com, we specialize in helping good podcasts become great. Hall of Fame podcaster Dave Jackson will identify your strengths and show you how to leverage them to keep your audience hooked. Don't let small oversights hold you back from podcasting stardom. Visit podcasthotseat.com today and put your show in the hot seat. Your listeners will thank you! Order now and get a free month at the School of Podcasting included in your purchase.Podcast 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 Month

Dave Jackson, a podcasting expert who transitioned from skepticism to championing chapters, dives into the evolution and advantages of incorporating chapters into podcasts. He discusses how chapters enhance listener engagement by allowing easy navigation through content. Tools like Hindenburg and Descript are highlighted for their integration capabilities, while AI-driven solutions are emerging to simplify chapter creation. Jackson embraces differing opinions on chapters, emphasizing their impact on storytelling and listener retention in a rapidly changing podcast landscape.

Dive into the world of AI in podcasting as intriguing tools are unveiled to streamline production and enhance creativity. Discover the balance between utilizing AI for efficiency and maintaining audience trust. Learn about the risks of automated content creation while exploring specific AI tools that can boost productivity. The conversation also navigates the financial landscape of podcasting, drawing parallels with blogging's early days. Above all, integrity in content creation remains paramount for lasting audience relationships.

In this episode of the School of Podcasting (episode 949), we get some great insights from media research expert Tom Webster. With a focus on optimizing podcast content and strategy, Tom and Dave explore common pitfalls that podcasters face, particularly the importance of engaging content from the outset. They discuss practical tips on improving podcast narrative and editing, handling advertiser concerns, and leveraging audience feedback to refine your podcast. Whether you're a seasoned podcaster or just starting, this episode provides valuable lessons on creating captivating content that resonates with listeners and satisfies advertisers. Don't miss the unique strategies and actionable advice that could transform your podcast into a must-listen show.About Tom WebsterTom Webster is a partner at Sounds Profitable, dedicated to setting the course for the future of audio. He has thirty years of experience in streaming, podcasting, audiobooks, terrestrial radio, and everything else that we stick in our earballs. In his previous work, with Edison Research, Webster was the co-author of the annual Infinite Dial® study, the longest-running study of consumer media habits since 1998, as well as the Share of Ear® and Edison Podcast Metrics studies. With Sounds Profitable, his body of work includes dozens of the most influential reports in podcasting, and he is one of the most widely cited audio researchers in the world.Got Feedback On This Episode?I'd love to hear what you thought about this episode. If you have a minute or two, it's less than five questions and works great on your phone or computer. Share Your ThoughtsMentioned In This EpisodeJoin the School of Podcasting CommunityProfit From Your Podcast BookPower of Podcasting NetworkDave's YouTube ChannelDave's Podcasting NewsletterBuy Dave a CoffeePut Dave In Your PocketWhere Will Dave Be?Question of the MonthThe Audience Is Listening: A Little Guide to Building a Big Podcast BookTom's Webster's Website for the BookSounds ProfitablePodcast Guru AppPodpage (website builder for Podcasters)Listen NotesChartableFTC DisclosuresEpisodes.fmThanksDaveJackson.comJoin the School of Podcasting Community Risk-FreeAre you looking to start your own podcast but don't know where to begin? Look no further than the School of Podcasting. Our comprehensive online courses and one-on-one coaching will teach you everything you need to know, from equipment and editing to marketing and monetization. With our proven methods and unlimited one-on-one consulting, you'll be creating high-quality, engaging content in no time. Say goodbye to the frustration and uncertainty and hello to a successful podcasting career with the School of Podcasting.Use the coupon code schoolofpodcasting.com/listener to save on a monthly or yearly subscription.Mentioned in this episode:I'd Love T See you!I will be at the following events: November 8, Podindy.com Whiteland Indiana January 15-18 Podfest Multimedia Expo in Orlando, Fl February 17–20, 2026 NRB 2026 International Christian Media Convention, Nashville, TennesseeWhere Will I Be?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 MonthPodcast Hot Seat - Now Private Podcast AuditsThere are things your podcast is missing that often lead to you losing the audience you are attracting. I help make good podcasts GREAT. End the frustration with your podcast growth. Check out the Podcast Hot Seat Service Today.Podcast Hotseat

If you're thinking of outsourcing some of the tasks involved with your podcast, this episode is for you. What is involved with creating an episode? What parts should I outsource? Where do I find an editor? How much does it cost?Mentioned In This EpisodeJoin the School of Podcasting CommunityProfit From Your Podcast BookPower of Podcasting NetworkDave's YouTube ChannelDave's Podcasting NewsletterBuy Dave a CoffeePut Dave In Your PocketWhere Will Dave Be?Question of the MonthAsk Ralph Podcast: Christian FinanceThe Pharmacists VoiceNext Day Audio EditorPodcast Editor AcademySteve Stewart "Find an Editor" tutorial an formDescript Vide and Audio Editor with AIOpus Clip AI Video Clip Creation ToolClipGen AI Video Clip Creation ToolAuphonic audio leveler and hiss removalOtter transcriptionCastmagic - AI Tool for PodcastersCapsho - AI Marketing tool for PodcastersMaximize Listener Engagement with Effective Podcast Interview Strategies SOP EpisodePodcast Rewind: Insider Secrets to a Top 100 PodcastHow to Monetize Your Podcast Even With a Small Audience | Dave JacksonThe Steps To Create a Podcast EpisodeResearch GuestResearch ContentGuest SchedulingSetup and test EquipmentRecord EpisodeAudio EditingAudio MasteringTranscriptionUpload to Media HostWrite Show NotesCreate Episodic ArtworkAdd to WebsitePost to Social Make ShortsWrite Guest EmailMentioned in this episode:I'd Love T See you!I will be at the following events: November 8, Podindy.com Whiteland Indiana January 15-18 Podfest Multimedia Expo in Orlando, Fl February 17–20, 2026 NRB 2026 International Christian Media Convention, Nashville, TennesseeWhere Will I Be?Join 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 Month

Value for Value or (podcasting 2.0) is NOT just about streaming Satoshi's (a very small amount of bitcoin). Today, we will discuss asking for support and what tools fit best for your situation. I may earn a small commission for some of these as I participate in their affiliate program. This costs you nothing and supports the show.Got Feedback On This Episode?I'd love to hear what you thought about this episode. If you have a minute or two, it's less than five questions and works great on your phone or computer. Share Your ThoughtsPlatforms Discussed:Donation Only (No RSS Tools)PaypalBuy Me a CoffeeFanlistKofiPremium Content ToolsSupercastPatreonMemberfulHello AudioCaptivateBuzzsproutAll of these platforms have their own strengths. If I just wanted to accept money, I'd use Buy Me a Coffee. If I wanted to sell premium content, I would use Supercast (although Captivate and Buzzsprout are very attractive if you are using them for hosting). Supercast has a super easy onboarding for new listeners with a two-click install, and their percentage is in alignment with others (if not less). Keep In Mind:A show with WOW content will likely get around 3% of its audience to engage.New podcasters should focus on building great content and their audience instead of monetizing, which can lead to disappointment. There are MANY other ways to make money with your podcast besides advertising and asking for support. See my book Profit From Your Podcast.Full details at schoolofpodcasting.com/947Because of PodcastCongrats to James Cridlan of Podnews who was asked to come on BBC News and discuss the new deal with Kelsie brothers podcast. Check out how this happened in his article.Jen Bryney of Congressional Dish got to cover both the Republican and Democratic party events via her connections with C-Span. Jenn your video from outside the DNC was touching. Keep up the great work.Join the School of Podcasting Community Risk-FreeAre you looking to start your own podcast but don't know where to begin? Look no further than the School of Podcasting. Our comprehensive online courses and one-on-one coaching will teach you everything you need to know, from equipment and editing to marketing and monetization. With our proven methods and unlimited one-on-one consulting, you'll be creating high-quality, engaging content in no time. Say goodbye to the frustration and uncertainty and hello to a successful podcasting career with the School of Podcasting.Use the coupon code schoolofpodcasting.com/listener to save on a monthly or yearly subscription.Mentioned In This EpisodeJoin the School of Podcasting CommunityProfit From Your Podcast BookPower of Podcasting NetworkDave's YouTube ChannelDave's Podcasting NewsletterBuy Dave a CoffeePut Dave In Your PocketWhere Will Dave Be?Question of the MonthMentioned in this episode:I'd Love T See you!I will be at the following events: November 8, Podindy.com Whiteland Indiana January 15-18 Podfest Multimedia Expo in Orlando, Fl February 17–20, 2026 NRB 2026 International Christian Media Convention, Nashville, TennesseeWhere Will I Be?Quit Thinking About It and START THAT PODCASTIf you have ever turned down the radio to hear your phone in the car, you know how to mix audio. If you have ever attached a photo to an email, you know how to upload an mp3 to a media host. Deleting text in Word is the same as delete audio in audacity. Yes, there is a learning curve but it's not as scary as you think. I'll be there the whole way, and you can join worry free with a 30 day money-back guarantee. Go to schoolofpodcasting.com/joinSchool 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 ObservationsWhat 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 Month

Today I reflect on my trip to Washington DC to Podcast Movement 2024. We talk about the gear, some presentations, some things that could only happen at Podcast Movement in DC, and why there wasn't any carpet. I used the Rode Interview Pro Portable Microphone to record some interviews in the very noisy vendor hall. With this in mind, I thought I'd talk about plugins that can clean things up. Full show notes are on the website. Join the School of Podcasting Community Risk-FreeAre you looking to start your own podcast but don't know where to begin? Look no further than the School of Podcasting. Our comprehensive online courses and one-on-one coaching will teach you everything you need to know, from equipment and editing to marketing and monetization. With our proven methods and unlimited one-on-one consulting, you'll be creating high-quality, engaging content in no time. Say goodbye to the frustration and uncertainty and hello to a successful podcasting career with the School of Podcasting.Use the coupon code schoolofpodcasting.com/listener to save on a monthly or yearly subscription.MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODERode Interview Pro Portable Microphone $244ishhttps://supportthisshow.com/rodeinterviewproShure Movmic Wireless Mics (small - great for video)https://geni.us/shure-movmicPodProtecthttps://podprotect.email/GW Centeric (Greg Wells) $36https://supportthisshow.com/gwcentralClarity VX Noise Removal $39https://supportthisshow.com/calrityvxAccentize DX Revive Pro $299https://www.accentize.com/dxrevive/Descript Studio Soundhttps://supportthisshow.com/descriptScheps Omni Channel 2 $39https://supportthisshow.com/schepsAudio Sigma Podmobile $359https://audiosigma.com/10 Free Plugins for Garageband (AU not VST)https://www.musicianwave.com/free-garageband-plugins/Adobe Enhancehttps://podcast.adobe.com/enhanceDealcasters Chris and Jimhttps://www.podpage.com/dealcasters/about/Paul Colligan's Podcast Partnershippodcastpartnership.comApple Podcasts on The Webhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/school-of-podcasting-plan-launch-grow-and-monetize/id83653087Podcaster Morning Chathttps://www.podpage.com/pmc/Lou Mongello - WDW Radiohttps://www.wdwradio.comhttps://www.loumongello.comThe Audience is Listening - Tom Webster Bookhttps://geni.us/tomwebsterbookHarry Durran - Podcast Junkieshttps://www.podcastjunkies.comPodnews Podcast Industry Newshttps://www.podnews.netQuestion of the MonthSome podcasters spend time putting in chapters that include artwork and links. Where are you when it comes to chapters? Did you know they exist? Do you use them in your show? As a listener, do you like them? Hate them? Click the link and let me know (and don't forget the name, elevator pitch, and link to your show). I need your answer by 9/27Click Here to Upload/Record Your AnswerQuestion of the Month 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 MonthI'd Love T See you!I will be at the following events: November 8, Podindy.com Whiteland Indiana January 15-18 Podfest Multimedia Expo in Orlando, Fl February 17–20, 2026 NRB 2026 International Christian Media Convention, Nashville, TennesseeWhere Will I Be?Does "It Depends" Stop You In Your Tracks? I Can HelpWhen you ask any podcast question, most answer begins with "It Depends." This is where my one-on-one coaching can make sure you make the right decision for YOUR audience, and YOUR goals. We have step by step tutorials, and an amazing group to cheer you on, but with the School of Podcasting you don't have to worry about the "It Depends" moments. I've got you. Go to schoolofpodcasting.com and use the coupon code listener to save. School of PodcastingPodcaster Happy Hour: The Best Free Podcaster ConferenceThe Podcaster Happy Hour meets once a month to check out cool podcasting tech and network with other podcasters. It's free. Check it out.Podcaster Happy Hour

DISCLAIMER: Today's show contains adult content. Maybe listen to this one when the kiddies aren't around.Today, I share some insights that will explain why I spent close to $400 to fly to Atlanta for one day. Then I share some stories about some strange laws in the UK that are getting people arrested for posting memes and two words that cost a comedian millions of dollars.Mentioned In This EpisodeJoin the School of Podcasting CommunityProfit From Your Podcast BookPower of Podcasting NetworkDave's YouTube ChannelDave's Podcasting NewsletterBuy Dave a CoffeePut Dave In Your PocketWhere Will Dave Be?Question of the MonthWithout Warning PodcastPodcaster Happy HourGamertag RadioGARMTom Segura Your Mom's HouseGetting Fired From McDonald'sLibsyn to Use BarometerJim and Chris from DealcastersMentioned in this episode:I'd Love T See you!I will be at the following events: November 8, Podindy.com Whiteland Indiana January 15-18 Podfest Multimedia Expo in Orlando, Fl February 17–20, 2026 NRB 2026 International Christian Media Convention, Nashville, TennesseeWhere Will I Be?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 MonthQuit Thinking About It and START THAT PODCASTIf you have ever turned down the radio to hear your phone in the car, you know how to mix audio. If you have ever attached a photo to an email, you know how to upload an mp3 to a media host. Deleting text in Word is the same as delete audio in audacity. Yes, there is a learning curve but it's not as scary as you think. I'll be there the whole way, and you can join worry free with a 30 day money-back guarantee. Go to schoolofpodcasting.com/joinSchool of Podcasting

Are you confident your podcast content is truly resonating with your audience? Many podcasters assume their content is "fine" without digging deeper. But there's a powerful way to gain invaluable insights directly from your listeners.In this episode, I share a game-changing strategy I recently used at my new job with Podpage. By conducting one-on-one Zoom calls with users, we uncovered crucial feedback that transformed our product. This approach can work wonders for your podcast too!Got Feedback On This Episode?I'd love to hear what you thought about this episode. If you have a minute or two, it's less than five questions and works great on your phone or computer. Share Your ThoughtsJoin the School of Podcasting Community Risk-FreeAre you looking to start your own podcast but don't know where to begin? Look no further than the School of Podcasting. Our comprehensive online courses and one-on-one coaching will teach you everything you need to know, from equipment and editing to marketing and monetization. With our proven methods and unlimited one-on-one consulting, you'll be creating high-quality, engaging content in no time. Say goodbye to the frustration and uncertainty and hello to a successful podcasting career with the School of Podcasting.Use the coupon code schoolofpodcasting.com/listener to save on a monthly or yearly subscription.Question of the MonthSome podcasters spend time putting in chapters that include artwork and links. Where are you when it comes to chapters? Did you know they exist? Do you use them in your show? As a listener, do you like them? Hate them? Click the link and let me know (and don't forget the name, elevator pitch, and link to your show). I need your answer by 9/27Click Here to Upload/Record Your AnswerQuestion of the Month Where I Will Be?I'll be speaking at Podcast Movement in Washington DC August 19-22.Ecamm Creator Camp October 15-18 in (Bostonish MA)I'll be speaking at Podindy.com on November 9thI look forward to seeing you all, please come up and say hi. To see my full itinerary, go to schoolofpodcasting.com/whereWant me to speak at your event or online meetup, contact me here. Mentioned In This EpisodeThe Audience Is Listening: A Little Guide to Building a Big PodcastPodpage.comJoining the School of PodcastingGrow The Show with Chris HutchinsAll the Hacks Episodes on Bank AccountsTidycal Calendar System with Lifetime DealAsk Ralph PodcastMiss Ileane - The Anchor ShowMentioned in this episode:I'd Love T See you!I will be at the following events: November 8, Podindy.com Whiteland Indiana January 15-18 Podfest Multimedia Expo in Orlando, Fl February 17–20, 2026 NRB 2026 International Christian Media Convention, Nashville, TennesseeWhere Will I Be?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 MonthPodcasting 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