Podcasting Morning Chat

What if we told you Instagram is rolling out a way for users to control their own algorithm and decide what they see? That experiment alone has big implications for podcast discovery and creator visibility. For today’s news day, we’re walking through several updates, such as Apple Podcasts adding automatic chapters and timed links. We also dig into recent AI updates that are making image editing easier and opening the door for new collaborative workflows, especially for creators working in teams. We also highlight several upcoming virtual and in-person events that podcasters may want to keep on their radar.Episode Highlights:[02:04] Preview of an upcoming evaluation episode[04:16] Podcast statistics and top charts[11:13] Upcoming events for podcasters[25:51] Exploring new AI features[26:28] ChatGPT’s image generator[31:20] Group chat feature in ChatGPT[36:24] Empowered Podcasting Conference video library[39:04] Instagram’s algorithm customization tools[43:38] Instagram’s move into a TV app[45:00] Apple’s podcast interaction updatesLinks & Resources: Join The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcasting⁠Our upcoming podcast evaluation, Shared Delights (Wedding Crasher): https://open.spotify.com/episode/1pfvQbyTC2J4j7f07RlgTb?si=DAciGVe4TRqSeyq5Glnb3wShared Delights Naked Eureka: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2gIMkfSyZDCZb07Jzzlx5pMeetUp & MatchUp use discount code PMC for free entry: https://podnews.net/event/meetup-matchup-with-podcasters-speakers-and-authors-20Podfest Expo:  (use coupon code MARC for 10% off)https://podfestexpo.comNYC Podcast Awards: www.silver-nyc.com/nycpodcastawardsPRX Training: https://trainingteam.cmail20.com/t/i-e-zavil-iihydjihuh-h/PodNews: www.podnews.netPodcast Creator Summit: https://confirmsubscription.com/h/i/711FAA94F8F3A173Apple’s Next Move for Podcast Interaction:https://bit.ly/4iZtr2tRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on ⁠Clubhouse⁠: ⁠⁠⁠ https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0w⁠⁠Or Join us on Chatter: https://preview.chattersocial.io/group/98a69881-f328-4eae-bf3c-9b0bb741481dLive on YouTube: ⁠https://youtube.com/@marcronick⁠Brought to you by⁠ ⁠iRonickMedia.com⁠⁠ Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at:⁠ https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/⁠ or ⁠[email protected]⁠Want to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: ⁠https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b⁠

​​Starting your podcast can feel overwhelming when every choice seems expensive or technical. permanent. But don’t worry, we’ve got you! Today, we focus on the questions new podcasters are asking at the beginning. We start with real questions from co-host Sid Meadows about recording platforms like Riverside, working with editors, and choosing the right mic stand. Later, the conversation opens up into questions nearly every new podcaster wrestles with, including whether podcasting has to be expensive and what actually matters when you are just getting started. We offer grounded perspectives on tools, gear, video, audio, and budget without pushing one 'right' answer. Episode Highlights:[02:34] Upcoming podcast evaluation episode details[05:36] Discussion on recording platforms [19:42] Choosing the right microphone stand[26:48] Announcement of the Empowered Podcasting Conference video library[29:18] Discussing financial investments in podcasting[31:18] True or false segment on financial investment in podcasting[43:08] True or false segment on YouTube’s role in podcastingLinks & Resources: Join The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcasting⁠Riverside: https://www.riverside.fm/?via=0676daRodecaster Pro 2: https://amzn.to/41h9yuNDesk Stands for Microphones: https://amzn.to/47URBohEmpowered Podcasting Conference Video Recordings: https://ironickmedia.com/courses/epc2025/Home Studio Mastery Gear Guide: https://homestudiomastery.com/gear-guideTo Have Your Podcast Considered For Evaluation, Please Complete This Form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45UOur upcoming podcast evaluation, Shared Delights (Wedding Crasher): https://open.spotify.com/episode/1pfvQbyTC2J4j7f07RlgTb?si=DAciGVe4TRqSeyq5Glnb3wShared Delights (Naked Eureka): https://open.spotify.com/episode/2gIMkfSyZDCZb07Jzzlx5pRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on ⁠Clubhouse⁠: ⁠⁠⁠ https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0w⁠⁠Or Join us on Chatter: https://preview.chattersocial.io/group/98a69881-f328-4eae-bf3c-9b0bb741481dLive on YouTube: ⁠https://youtube.com/@marcronick⁠Brought to you by⁠ ⁠iRonickMedia.com⁠⁠ Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at:⁠ https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/⁠ or ⁠[email protected]⁠Want to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: ⁠https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b⁠

Do you remember when Olympic figure skater Tonya Harding was accused of having her ex-husband, Jeff Gillooly, injure Nancy Kerrigan’s knee before the 1994 Olympics? If you lived through the 90s, this story dominated the news, and many of us formed strong opinions based on a narrative the media pushed at the time. That familiar story becomes the starting point for a deeper look at podcasting craft. Co-host Jonathan Howard, leads the team through a case study of You’re Wrong About, using their 'Tanya Harding, Part 1' episode to examine where the show excels. We explore how the hosts balance deep research with a conversational delivery that keeps listeners engaged. We also look at how intentional co-host roles guide audiences through complex material without losing clarity. Strong podcasting is not about presenting more facts. It is about framing stories with care and purpose, so listeners feel invited to rethink what they know and stay engaged.Episode Highlights:[03:40] Preview of the upcoming podcast evaluation series[06:18] Introduction to the You’re Wrong About podcast[07:33] First impressions, tone, and host banter[16:21] A deeper dive into the Tanya Harding story[27:29] Accessibility and discoverability issues within the episode[32:53] Empathy-driven storytelling and humanizing Tanya Harding[41:08] Media narratives and shifting public perception[49:26] Citing sources in show notes Links & Resources: Join The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcasting⁠Empowered Podcasting Conference: www.eventbrite.com/e/empowered-podcasting-conference-tickets-1976757134803Upcoming Podcast For Evaluation: https://open.spotify.com/episode/44Mq04supW81rcuQeAVCB8?si=I-vp9camTrK0bvw1ZX6g6gYou’re Wrong About Tanya Harding Part 1: www.youtube.com/watch?v=A2CWRSZfApAThe Story Lab with Jonathan Howard: https://thestorylabpodcast.buzzsprout.com/To Have Your Podcast Considered For Evaluation, Please Complete This Form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45UOur upcoming podcast evaluation, Shared Delights (Wedding Crasher): https://open.spotify.com/episode/1pfvQbyTC2J4j7f07RlgTb?si=DAciGVe4TRqSeyq5Glnb3wShared Delights Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/7kGzKPjX13q2r2j9G7MdDR?si=9fb17aeb1020497aRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on ⁠Clubhouse⁠: ⁠⁠⁠ https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0w⁠⁠Or Join us on Chatter: https://preview.chattersocial.io/group/98a69881-f328-4eae-bf3c-9b0bb741481dLive on YouTube: ⁠https://youtube.com/@marcronick⁠Brought to you by⁠ ⁠iRonickMedia.com⁠⁠ Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at:⁠ https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/⁠ or ⁠[email protected]⁠Want to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: ⁠https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b⁠

As 2025 winds down, we pause to reflect on the choices shaping where we’re headed next in our podcasting journeys and beyond. We explore the impact of saying yes and no as a community, through honest stories about doubt, trust, rest, creativity, and change.We share what it looks like to release patterns that no longer fit, and how small, intentional choices can create space for clarity. This conversation isn’t about having it all figured out. It’s about noticing where we are, listening to each other, and giving ourselves permission to move forward with intention. If you’re standing at the edge of a new year feeling unsure, you’re not alone. Join us and take a moment to breathe, reflect, and remember that clarity often begins together.Episode Highlights:[02:23] Upcoming Podcast Evaluations and Reviews  [10:23] Setting Intentions for 2026  [13:57] Community Shares: Saying No and Yes in 2026  [26:17] Embracing Trust and Overcoming Doubt  [28:10] Collaboration and Abundance  [30:17] Saying Yes to Business Risks and Personal Growth  [31:38] Avoiding Chaos and Embracing Community  [34:02] Helping Others and Finding Fulfillment  [41:49] Wins and Reflections from the Week  Links & Resources: Join The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcasting⁠Empowered Podcasting Conference: www.eventbrite.com/e/empowered-podcasting-conference-tickets-1976757134803Upcoming Podcast For Evaluation: https://open.spotify.com/episode/44Mq04supW81rcuQeAVCB8?si=I-vp9camTrK0bvw1ZX6g6gTo Have Your Podcast Considered For Evaluation, Please Complete This Form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45URethinking Podcasting With Matthew Bliss: https://rethinkingpodcasting.comRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on ⁠Clubhouse⁠: ⁠⁠⁠ https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0w⁠⁠Or Join us on Chatter: https://preview.chattersocial.io/group/98a69881-f328-4eae-bf3c-9b0bb741481dLive on YouTube: ⁠https://youtube.com/@marcronick⁠Brought to you by⁠ ⁠iRonickMedia.com⁠⁠ Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at:⁠ https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/⁠ or ⁠[email protected]⁠Want to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: ⁠https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b⁠

To understand how your podcast resonates with listeners, start by analyzing how another show approaches its opening moments. In today’s Indie Podcast Evaluation, we look at Carefree Highway Revisited, a show that reflects on the music of Canadian singer-songwriter Gordon Lightfoot. We highlight how a clear intro and steady interview flow create an inviting listener experience. You’ll see how pacing guides attention, how a host’s authority can add depth without taking over, and how simple SEO choices help a show get found.Episode Highlights:[02:55] Podcast Hall of Fame News  [04:34] AI and Content Creation  [06:34] Indie Podcast Evaluation: Carefree Highway Revisited  [09:50] Cover Art Critique and Suggestions  [24:51] Opening Remarks and Introduction  [25:55] Discussion on Podcast Intro and Guest Context  [28:18] Importance of Episode Setup and Description  [31:29] Analyzing Content Quality and Storytelling  [37:27] Midroll Transition and Branding Discussion  [43:10] Final SEO Tip: Optimizing Show Notes for Discovery  Links & Resources: Join The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcasting⁠Empowered Podcasting Conference: www.eventbrite.com/e/empowered-podcasting-conference-tickets-1976757134803To Have Your Podcast Considered For Evaluation, Please Complete This Form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45UCarefree Highway Revisited: https://www.lightfootpodcast.com/does-your-mother-know-s5-e3/Create a Podcast Website in Minutes with PodPage:https://www.podpage.com/?via=ironickmediaRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on ⁠Clubhouse⁠: ⁠⁠⁠ https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0w⁠⁠Or Join us on Chatter: https://preview.chattersocial.io/group/98a69881-f328-4eae-bf3c-9b0bb741481dLive on YouTube: ⁠https://youtube.com/@marcronick⁠Brought to you by⁠ ⁠iRonickMedia.com⁠⁠ Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at:⁠ https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/⁠ or ⁠[email protected]⁠Want to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: ⁠https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b⁠