Your Podcast Consultant: Podcast Tips To Avoid Podcasting Mistakes
Dave Jackson
Recent Episodes
Hey there, it’s Dave Jackson, and in this episode, I'm exploring what we, as podcasters and content creators, can learn from none other than Barbra Streisand—specifically, the infamous "Streisand effect."
What Does It Mean?
If you've ever wondered what that term means, I break down the story behind it, starting with a 2003 lawsuit involving her Malibu home and how trying to hide something can actually make it go viral.
Be Careful What You Try to "Ban"
I share my own experiences dealing with promotion in podcasting, including the challenges that come with companies making big promises about starting your podcast and, yes, my mixed feelings about Spotify’s practices in the early days. I also talk about how, as much as we sometimes want to warn our audiences loudly about something, we might end up giving it more attention than it deserves.
You’ll hear a few stories from my past, like the time with Podshow and an NDA, and what I've learned about arguing with trolls or competitors. Bottom line: sometimes pushing back just amplifies the thing you’re trying to keep quiet!
As always, if you need help with your podcast, I’d love to work with you. Head over to schoolofpodcasting.com/start and use the coupon code “listener” for a special deal. Can’t wait to see what we accomplish together!
Thanks for listening!
Mentioned in this episode:
Want to Podcast But Not Sure Where To Start?
I've got you covered with a FREE Podcast Launch Checklist that walks you through the whole process IN THE RIGHT ORDER. Go to www.schoolofpodcasting.com/checklist
This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:
OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy
In this episode, I get into the impact of taking an extended break from podcasting and how it affects your show’s growth, audience engagement, and completion rates. Here are the main takeaways:
- I discuss a situation where a podcast grew to 500 downloads per episode but lost half its audience after taking a year-long break. Even with improved audio quality and more polished episodes after returning, both downloads and completion rates suffered.
- Consistency is key. I emphasize how taking long breaks can significantly set you back, comparing it to putting your finger in a leaky bucket – once you take it out, the water (your audience) drains away.
- Switching to a biweekly episode schedule can help maintain consistency if that’s all you can manage with your workload, but it may slow growth.
- If you notice completion rates dropping, it’s a sign something may not connect with your current content. Sometimes we’re too close to our own work, so getting outside feedback is crucial.
- I suggest finding a friend or colleague who matches your target audience to get honest feedback on your episodes.
- Numbers don’t lie! Data can reveal hard truths that help you improve.
- If you need help starting, growing, or monetizing your podcast, I offer consulting at School of Podcasting. Use the coupon code listener for a discount!
- You can also check out Podcast Hot Seat, which currently includes a Black Friday deal with a free month at the School of Podcasting.
If you’re looking for feedback, growth strategies, or just a friendly ear that understands the journey – I’m here to help! Let’s see what we can accomplish together.
URLs mentioned:
- School of Podcasting (Coupon Code: listener)
- Podcast Hot Seat
Thanks for listening! I can’t wait to help you take your podcast to the next level.
Mentioned in this episode:
Get Your Show Growing
I once had a typo in the name of my show. I didn't see it. I'm too close. Your show may have some things that need polish. Get an objective overview at www.podcasthostseat.com AND get a free month at the School of Podcasting
This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:
OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy
Hey there, it’s Dave Jackson, and in this episode I’m revising the challenge of naming your podcast—a topic I haven’t covered since 2019! I share a simple test I use for show names: I tell people the name and ask what they think it’s about. If their answer matches my content, I know I’m on the right track.
I talk about how it’s tempting to get cute with names (like “The Dugout” for a baseball show), but if you skip keywords like “baseball,” your show might not appear in searches. If you want a clever name, adding a clear tagline can help.
I also cover practical tips like making sure your podcast name is easy to say and spell. I learned the hard way when I called a show “Podcast FastPass”—it was tricky to pronounce and easily confused. And be wary of names with tricky spellings or multiple possible formats (like “2” vs “two,” or double S’s).
Don’t forget to check if your domain is available—I usually try for a .com, but if that’s taken, I recommend adding “show,” “radio,” or “cast” to get a unique domain. And of course, Google your proposed name to see if someone else is already using it.
In this episode, I also mention two tools to help brainstorm names: one from PodPage, and a new one from Buzzsprout.
Podpage Podcast Name Generator
https://www.podpage.com/podcast-name-generator/
Buzzsprout Podcast Name Generator
https://www.buzzsprout.com/podcast-name-generator
Need Help With Your Podcast?
If you’re stuck on names or need help moving forward, come visit me at schoolofpodcasting.com! I’ve got tutorials, a supportive community, and consulting to help you succeed.
Let’s create something great together!
Mentioned in this episode:
Get Your Show Growing
I once had a typo in the name of my show. I didn't see it. I'm too close. Your show may have some things that need polish. Get an objective overview at www.podcasthostseat.com AND get a free month at the School of Podcasting
This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:
OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy
"What is the best podcast platform for beginners?" The short answer is – it depends on you and your goals! I cover several popular podcast hosting platforms, including Captivate, Transistor, Buzzsprout, Podbean, and Libsyn. My personal favorite is Captivate because for $19 a month, you can create unlimited podcasts and episodes, with only a price increase if you go over 30,000 downloads. I use Captivate for multiple shows and love its feature set.
I also highlight the importance of understanding your goals: Are you trying to sell your own stuff (like my book "Profit from Your Podcast") or are you aiming for advertising revenue? I explain how selling your own products can often be more profitable than relying on podcast ad revenue for most beginners.
You're Going to Have a Learning Curve
While each hosting platform has a learning curve, they're all pretty approachable. Don't stress about being a beginner – take a day or a few hours to watch tutorials and get to know the software. I encourage you to treat this learning phase as putting gas in your tank for a smoother ride ahead.
For those wanting extra help, I offer step-by-step videos and support through the School of Podcasting. Use coupon code "Listener" at checkout for a discount!
Websites and Companies mentioned
- Captivate.fm (Podcast hosting)
- Transistor.fm (Podcast hosting)
- Buzzsprout.com (Podcast hosting)
- Podbean.com (Podcast hosting)
- Libsyn.com (Podcast hosting)
- Blubrry.com (Podcast hosting)
- Schoolofpodcasting.com (My educational resource for podcasters)
- profitfromyourpodcast.com (My book website)
- RSS.com (Mentioned in context of advertising)
- Spotify.com (Mentioned in context of advertising)
- TidyCal.com (Calendar tool I use)
Ecamm Live (Live streaming)
If you need more guidance, reach out to me—I’m here to help podcasters grow!
Mentioned in this episode:
Get Your Show Growing
I once had a typo in the name of my show. I didn't see it. I'm too close. Your show may have some things that need polish. Get an objective overview at www.podcasthostseat.com AND get a free month at the School of Podcasting
This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:
OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy