The Anycast with Matt Levine

Matt Levine chats with Dave Jackson, Head of Podpage and founder of The School of Podcasting. Dave shares how he got started in podcasting, the lessons he’s learned across nearly two decades, and why staying true to your audience matters more than ever. They discuss the early struggles of launching a show, the right way to grow without losing your voice, how AI is reshaping content creation, and the real keys to standing out in a crowded podcasting world. Dave shares how he got into podcasting back in 2006, launched The School of Podcasting, worked for Libsyn for eight years, and got inducted into the Podcast Hall of Fame. Dave gets honest about the painful early days of launching a podcast in 2006 — when the tech was clunky, the process was ugly, and few people knew what a podcast was. Dave explains why the first few minutes of a podcast should set the tone and direction for the entire episode. Dave shares the easiest way to get more clicks on your podcast: write amazing titles and then make sure you deliver on the promise that’s on your titles. Dave explains his view on AI in podcasting: he’s not anti-AI, but warns that podcasters can’t afford to get lazy. Personality matters, and if you strip that out, you risk losing what makes your show special. How podcasting is different from radio and why podcasters should resist cramming shows with ads the way radio did. Dave and Matt share their thoughts on what really defines a podcast. For them, if it’s wrapped in an RSS feed, it counts — which makes them a little skeptical about stats that claim YouTube is now the top way to find podcasts. Matt brings up a powerful point: whenever you put an algorithm between you and your audience, you risk shifting your focus from serving your people to pleasing the algorithm. According to Dave, YouTube monetization can quietly pulls creators away from focusing on their listeners. The more you chase impressions and ad dollars, the easier it is to forget about the people you're actually creating for. Matt and Dave discuss how podcasters can balance creating for their audience while still navigating the algorithm.  Dave uses a "three-legged stool" analogy to explain sustainable podcasting: you need your health, your attitude, and strong support around you. Lose one, and the whole thing can fall apart. Matt and Dave break down two of the biggest challenges in podcasting today: discovery and audience building. Dave’s advice for new podcasters: get feedback early. Make your first episode as good as possible, share it with people and ask them what they think. Dave points out the mistake most new podcasters make: they obsess over tech, microphones, and platforms, when in reality, listeners only care about good content. Dave talks about self-promotion and why it shouldn’t feel salesy if you genuinely believe in your product and your mission to help people.  The two must-haves for podcasting success:you need to know exactly who your audience is, and your 'why.'  Matt and Dave explore the fine line between AI and podcasting. For Matt, technology will always keep moving forward. Rather than resist it, creators need to accept, adjust, and evolve with it. Matt makes a sharp distinction: AI and language models are good at facts but they can't capture meaning. Turning facts into something truly meaningful still takes a human touch. Matt and Dave agree that what separates a good show from a bad show is not tech tricks or having celebrities as guests, it’s whether your content genuinely gives people what they came for. Dave shares his definition of a great podcast: it needs to make you laugh, cry, think, groan, educate, or entertain. Dave explains why great podcasts aren’t just about great content, they’re about how that content is delivered. You can have the best material, but if the delivery is bad, it won’t connect.  Dave gets real about the early days of starting a podcast: when you start, you’ll often be talking to nobody, for no money, and for a long time. You have to love your subject so much that you’d do it anyway. Dave looks back on how different podcasting was in 2006 compared to today — and shares his honest thoughts about where he believes the space is heading by 2030.     Mentioned in This Episode: Podpage.com Access Dave’s School of Podcasting Profit from Your Podcast: Proven Strategies to Turn Listeners into a Livelihood by Dave Jackson The Audience Is Listening: A Little Guide to Building a Big Podcast by Tom Webster theanycast.com/s2e11

Full episode launches on May 15

In Case You Missed It… Join us for an engaging chat with James Cridland, the brilliant mind from Brisbane behind Podnews. With his rich background in radio, James has become a prominent figure in the podcasting world since 2017. Discover how he transitioned from radio to podcasting, and the clever strategies he employs to produce daily content without losing his creative spark. James offers an insider's perspective on the role of AI in the podcasting industry, comparing it to past technological shifts in radio, and argues that while AI can be a powerful creative ally, misuse can lead to lackluster content. Our conversation takes a whimsical turn as we explore the global reach of podcast advertising and the unexpected moments that make this industry so unique. From the amusing story of receiving a newspaper a day late in Jamaica to the charming Australian expression "Have a great rest of yesterday," James and I celebrate the cultural quirks that enhance our shared experiences. We reflect on the universality of podcasting, the joy of connecting across continents, and the delightful nuances of language that bring us all closer together. This episode promises a delightful mix of industry insight, heartfelt stories, and cultural connections that will leave you both informed and entertained.     James Cridland on LinkedIn Podnews.net theanycast.com/s2e10

Matt Levine chats with James Cridland, a radio veteran and the mind behind Podnews, a daily podcast and newsletter covering the podcasting industry. With over 1,930 podcast episodes and newsletters, James shares his insights on why audio is still king, even as podcasts with video gain traction. They discuss the real advantage of audio, how podcasting thrives as the ultimate multitasking medium, and why time spent listening matters more than audience size. James starts by explaining how radio and podcasting are fundamentally different.  James shares how he managed to sustain a daily podcast and newsletter for over 1930 episodes. He reveals the systems and tricks he’s developed to automate the boring stuff so he can focus on what truly matters. The one thing that will make podcasting sustainable for you. It’s not about working harder—it’s about removing friction and maximizing creative energy. James on the shortcuts that make podcasting easier over time. When you’ve done something long enough, you naturally find the fastest, most effective way to get the job done. Why James started podcasting and writing a daily newsletter. He shares what drew him to both and why they’ve remained central to his work. Podcast growth vs. newsletter growth—how do they compare? James breaks down the trajectory of both and some surprising stats about their long-term trends. James on why slow, steady podcast growth is actually a good thing. Rapid growth can kill a medium, but a strong foundation makes all the difference. Matt and James discuss the state of podcasting today. They cover how the industry has evolved and where it’s headed next. James reveals why focusing on time spent listening matters more than audience size. The goal of every podcast should be getting people to spend as much time listening to podcasts rather than focusing on increasing the size of the audience.  What is the best way to grow the podcasting industry? According to James, it’s not just about getting more listeners—it’s about getting current listeners to engage more deeply. Matt shares his thoughts on what podcasters are really competing for. It’s not downloads, subscribers, or ad dollars—it’s attention. James on the one advantage podcasting has over every other medium--podcasting is the original multitasking medium. Unlike YouTube, Netflix, or TikTok, podcasts let you consume content while doing other things. How to actually build an audience that sticks with you. James believes mass-market podcasts struggle—niche audiences are where you win.  James and Matt cover the key to keeping listeners coming back. Consistency in release time and frequency builds habits, and breaking that habit makes it easy to lose an audience. Is YouTube really the best platform for podcasts? James explains why it’s overhyped—and what the numbers really say. How James decides which podcasting stories and news to highlight. His process for sifting through the noise and finding what truly matters. Podcast consumption—how does the US compare globally? James shares surprising insights on where podcasting is growing fastest and where monetization is harder. Matt and James discuss why US content isn’t dominating globally. In the UK, for example, only two US shows make the top 25 podcasts. AI and podcasting—should creators be worried? James sees AI as a tool that can create both terrible and amazing content—it’s all about how you use it. James’ best advice for new podcasters: Pick a niche, stay consistent, and don’t expect overnight success. He adds, “It's much easier to focus on a niche than it is to launch another Joe Rogan experience, which is why there isn't another Joe Rogan out there.” Why you should start your podcast today, even if you feel unprepared. No one listens to your first episode unless you want them to—so just get started.     Mentioned in This Episode: James Cridland on LinkedIn Podnews.net theanycast.com/s2e10

Full episode launches on April 24

In Case You Missed It… Christoph Grasser, an audio virtuoso with a diverse background in engineering, music, and production, takes center stage to share his remarkable journey with us. From blending rock and metal concerts to orchestrating German Schlager stars' tours, Chris's career path is as eclectic as it is inspiring. Now leading the strategy at Alphonic, a cutting-edge audio post-production tool, Chris reveals how his passion for sound and desire for change aligned perfectly with the company's mission. His transition from a podcast lurker to a key player in the podcasting world is a tale of serendipity and ambition, as he now crafts an innovative toolbox for content creators seeking pristine audio. In this engaging conversation, Chris unveils his intrinsic motivation to elevate audio standards and his role in shaping Alphonic's strategic direction. We uncover the meticulous attention he brings from his days behind the soundboard and how that experience fuels his drive to perfect the auditory experience for content creators worldwide. Chris' story is one that resonates with anyone who believes in the power of sound to captivate and communicate. Tune in to glean insights from a seasoned audio engineer who knows how to make every note sing and every word resonate.     Auphonic.com Christoph Grasser on LinkedIn Pryne.org Pryne Band on Instagram theanycast.com/s2e9

Matt Levine sits down with Christoph Grasser, an audio engineer, musician, producer, and the head of strategy for Auphonic, an all-in-one audio post-production web tool. They discuss why finding a loyal niche audience is more valuable than chasing viral success, how to not let technical barriers kill your ideas, why most people still prefer audio podcasts, and how AI will make content creation more accessible. Chris starts by sharing his journey from supporting artists behind the scenes to becoming the head of strategy at Auphonic. Matt and Chris discuss why cleaning up audio is so satisfying. There’s a deep sense of fulfillment in taking raw, imperfect recordings and transforming them into something clear and professional. Chris’s #1 pet peeve in podcasting: poorly produced audio due to lack of effort. It’s not about having the most expensive gear—it’s about caring enough to make an effort. Chris explains why he gets frustrated when he hears podcasts with bad audio quality. The myth of the dying audio engineer—why AI and automation won’t replace them. Some people think that with AI tools, human audio engineers will become obsolete. Chris disagrees, explaining why technology can assist but not replace the ear, skill, and creative touch of a trained audio professional. Why most podcasters just want simplicity and getting content out matters more than perfection. Too many people with valuable stories never start a podcast because the technology seems overwhelming. Chris believes the real goal should be removing these barriers so that everyone can get their message out. Chris and Matt discuss the power of podcasting and why it’s one of the few art forms where creative independence still thrives. Unlike traditional media, podcasting doesn’t require approval from gatekeepers. Matt and Chris discuss how this freedom allows creators to experiment, find their voice, and connect with their audiences. Understand that not every podcast will blow up, and that’s okay. Your goal as a podcaster should be finding and serving your core fans who love what you do. Most podcasts won’t go viral, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t successful. Matt and Chris share how finding a loyal niche audience is often more valuable than trying to appeal to the masses. Chris on the unique element of podcasting: Unlike other media, podcasting creates an intimate connection between the speaker and the listener. This personal touch is what makes podcasts so powerful and enduring. In a world of AI-generated content and social media noise, people crave real, human interactions. Chris believes that the most successful podcasts in the future will be the ones that build genuine relationships with their audiences. Chris highlights why video podcasting is blowing up in the U.S. but still trailing in Europe. Learn how AI and better tools will lower the barrier to entry, making content creation easier than ever. Chris reveals what a new generation of podcast listeners wants, and how podcasters can serve younger audiences who are used to consuming content in quick, bite-sized clips. Why skill doesn’t equal popularity when it comes to podcasting—Matt and Chris share their thoughts on why some of the most talented creators go unnoticed, while others with less skill thrive. Success in the creative space is often more about marketing, timing, and audience connection than pure ability. The real reason top podcasts succeed. It’s not content quality, it’s marketing. Many of the biggest podcasts don’t have the best production or most insightful discussions. Chris explains how branding, consistency, and visibility often matter more than raw content quality. According to Matt, people don’t care if a YouTube video is in 4K or 1080p, but they do care if it’s blurry and unwatchable. Chris shares his thoughts on why the most extreme voices attract the biggest audiences. In today’s media landscape, anger and controversy generate more engagement than thoughtful discussion. Chris’s trick for getting the right answers online—just post the wrong answer. How AI is viewed differently in the U.S. vs. Europe. AI in podcasting: a tool or shortcut? AI can be a powerful assistant, but Chris believes using it to remove all effort from content creation leads to soulless, uninspired work. He believes effort and struggle are key parts of creativity. Chris’s advice for launching an audio career: Put yourself out there. No amount of theory or training can replace real-world experience.     Mentioned in This Episode: Auphonic.com Christoph Grasser on LinkedIn Pryne.org Pryne Band on Instagram theanycast.com/s2e9

Full episode launches on April 3

In Case You Missed It… Erica Mandy, the pioneering force behind The NewsWorthy podcast, joins us for a riveting conversation on her transformation from a traditional TV news reporter to a leading voice in podcasting. Erica opens up about her motivation to create a platform that offers news in a way that informs without inducing anxiety, setting herself apart with a warm, relatable delivery. She takes us through her journey of embracing podcasting's flexibility, revealing how this medium empowers her to deliver impactful content while navigating the complexities of building a business in a rapidly changing industry. Erica's story is a powerful testament to the potential of following one's passion in the evolving landscape of media. As we continue the discussion, Erica shares her insights on changing trends in news consumption and the exciting opportunities that podcasting presents. Her experience highlights the challenges and successes of innovating in a space where larger players are making their mark. With her unique perspective, Erica sheds light on the future of media consumption, offering listeners a refreshing alternative to conventional news. This episode promises to keep you engaged with Erica's inspiring journey and thoughtful observations on how news can be delivered with both impact and ease.     TheNewsWorthy.com The NewsWorthy on Instagram EricaMandy.com theanycast.com/s2e8

Matt Levine talks with Erica Mandy, Founder and Host of The NewsWorthy, an award-winning daily news podcast. They discuss Erica’s bold leap from TV news reporting to podcasting and why she felt compelled to create a more accessible, less anxiety-inducing way for people to stay informed. She shares the challenges of starting and growing a news podcast, how she curates engaging yet unbiased content, and the lessons she’s learned from releasing over 1,000 episodes. Erica starts by explaining why she left TV news for podcasting. She wanted to create a better way for people to stay informed—one that didn’t rely on anxiety-inducing breaking news alerts or require hours of daily commitment. Why was podcasting the perfect fit? Unlike TV or print, podcasts let people listen on their own time—during a commute, while cooking, or even at the gym—making news more accessible. Erica shares how she overcame the fear of competition. She acknowledges that new podcasters often worry about competition, but she believes multiple voices can coexist, each bringing something unique to the table. Matt breaks down the biggest myth in entrepreneurship. People think an idea is the most valuable asset in a business, but in reality, execution determines success. Even a world-changing idea is worthless without action. Erica and Matt discuss what it’s like to be underestimated. She opens up about being doubted throughout the first months of launching a podcast and how she turned skepticism into motivation to succeed. Matt and Erica discuss the role of AI in podcasting. AI can streamline parts of the podcasting process, but it’s still just a tool, not a replacement for human creativity. Why AI isn’t ready to replace human storytelling. Erica believes AI can assist with production, but it lacks the depth, nuance, and emotional intelligence needed to create engaging content from scratch. The secret to making a podcast feel personal – listeners connect with hosts who feel and sound real. For Erica, a successful show isn’t just about downloads. It’s about engagement. Erica prioritizes interacting with listeners, gathering feedback, and making them feel heard. Erica breaks down the news curation process—how she picks what to cover – With so much happening daily, her key filter is: Does this story impact my listener? If it doesn’t, it’s not worth including. Erica’s goal isn’t just to update people—it’s to offer multiple perspectives, avoid bias, and ensure the news feels trustworthy. Erica and Matt discuss the challenge of capturing attention without clickbait. While sensationalism dominates the media, Erica believes you can be engaging without sacrificing integrity. Matt and Erica agree that extreme voices dominate social media. Algorithms reward outrage. Controversy keeps people engaged—even if they disagree—so the loudest, most divisive figures often rise to the top. Matt argues that media companies rely on polarizing pundits because conflict drives engagement, making society more divided than ever. News fatigue is real—two-thirds of Americans are burned out by news. Constant negativity has made many people disengage from current events. Looking back on 1,000+ episodes, Erica reflects on how her show has changed over time and what she’s learned since episode one. Why practicing in private matters – Before launching publicly, Erica sought feedback from close friends and family. Testing and refining early on gave her the confidence to succeed. Erica shares the reality of running a podcast as a business. The theory of starting a show is exciting, but actually growing and sustaining a podcast brand is a different challenge altogether. Why a little naivety can be helpful in business. If you knew everything before starting, you might be too afraid to take the leap. Erica believes that sometimes, blind optimism can be a good thing. The U.S. leads in entrepreneurship—until age 31, when rates drop sharply. According to Matt, a key reason could be that that’s when most people have kids, making risk-taking harder. The power of delegation—learning to let go. Every hire takes over a job you once did. Letting go of control can be tough, but it’s crucial for growth. Understand that hiring is not a cost—it’s an investment. Erica’s parenting advice—research, but trust your gut: No amount of reading can fully prepare you. Whether it’s raising a child or running a business, sometimes you just have to trust yourself.     Mentioned in This Episode: TheNewsWorthy.com The NewsWorthy on Instagram EricaMandy.com theanycast.com/s2e8