In & Around Podcasting

This episode opens with a major industry shift: Tim Cook’s announcement that he is stepping down as CEO of Apple in September 2026. The team discusses the transition plan, the elevation of John Ternus and Johny Srouji, and what this "hardware-first" leadership style might mean for the future of Apple devices and services.The conversation then pivots to the technical rollout of HLS (HTTP Live Streaming) video support on Apple Podcasts. Joined by OG co-hosts Mark Asquith and Danny Brown, the team breaks down how HLS differs from standard video files and open standards. They explain how adaptive bitrate streaming ensures listeners stay connected even on poor data connections and why audio-only creators shouldn’t feel pressured to pivot to video.Finally, the group tackles the nuance of accessibility and inclusion in podcasting. They compare listening to an audiobook to reading with your ears, emphasizing that the goal is always to deliver the message to the audience wherever they are. The team shares insights on the power of Apple's new video implementation and how it provides more expansive ways for audiences to engage with content.More Co-hosts!Mark Asquith: Founder of Captivate and original co-host of In & Around Podcasting.Danny Brown: Head of Support and Experience at Captivate and original co-host of In & Around Podcasting.Links to interesting things from this episodeEverything related to the Captivate Video Podcasting Support RolloutPublish Video Podcasts to Apple Podcasts: Captivate Video Support OverviewHelpdesk ArticlesApple HLS Video Podcasts: Help ArticleHow to Connect Apple's HLS Video Podcast Feature to Captivate: Connection GuideApple Podcasts HLS Frequently Asked Questions: HLS FAQHow to Publish Video Episodes via Captivate to Apple Podcasts Using HLS: Publishing GuidePricing for Apple HLS Video Podcasts: Pricing DetailsBlogPublish Video to Apple with Captivate: Blog PostApple Video Podcasting Best Practices: Best Practices GuidePeople & ShowsTim Cook: Apple Executive Chairman (formerly CEO - until Sept).John Ternus: Apple CEO (effective Sept 2026).Johny Srouji: Chief Hardware Officer at Apple.Marco Arment: Creator of Overcast and co-host of ATP.Accidental Tech Podcast (ATP): https://atp.fm/Robb Dunewood: Daily Tech News Network & The Tech JawnAnna DeShawn: Ambie Award winner and founder of The Qube App. https://theqube.app/ (If you are a Black or Brown podcaster submit your show!)Apps & TechnologyHLS (HTTP Live Streaming): Technical standard for video delivery.Apple Podcasts: Support for HLS video in iOS 26.4+.The Qube App: A database for Black and Brown podcasters. https://theqube.app/Captivate Growth Labs: Educational resources for podcasters. https://www.captivate.fm/growth-labsArticles & EpisodesATP 663: Defending the Honor of The Cheesecake Factory: The episode where the ATP team predicted Apple's leadership shift. https://atp.fm/663Why People Who Listen to Podcasts Are Suddenly Feeling Left Out (WSJ): An exploration of the audio-only listener experience in a video-centric market. https://www.wsj.com/lifestyle/podcasts-video-armchair-expert-killer-stories-kristen-bell-0e07d0beThe Audio-to-Video Roadmap: Greg Willits: Luma session deep-dive on transitioning formats. https://luma.com/qiqd3odtThe Audio-to-Video Roadmap: Mignon Fogarty: Luma session focused on strategic video implementation. https://luma.com/y0bbjgbhIn & Around Podcasting is a podcast industry podcast started by Mark Asquith and Danny Brown and now hosted by Elsie Escobar and Rob Walch, continuing its mission as an industry show that belongs to the whole community.If you enjoy the show, we'd love for you to leave us a rating or review on your favourite podcast app! You can also drop us a tip at https://www.inandaroundpodcasting.com/support, too!If you're an independent creator who would like to co-host with us, please let us know by emailing the show! [email protected] tell your friends that the show is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube, plus wherever else they may listen to their podcasts.If you'd like your podcast trailer featuring in our "Wave File" segment, submit it via this quick contact form, please.The podcast is also available at In & Around Podcasting.This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

OpenAI recently acquired TBPN (Technology Business Programming Network). Rob and Elsie discuss the relationship between Sam Altman and TBPN’s John Coogan, the network's high production value, and what it means for OpenAI’s public-facing brand as they head toward an expected IPO.Elsie takes a moment to celebrate Frank Racioppi’s recent Forbes piece, giving him his well-deserved flowers for his thoughtful advocacy and committed support of the independent community. While the article is titled "There's A War Of Independents In Podcasting," Elsie highlights how Frank successfully name-checks the creators and shows that mainstream media often ignores. She suggests that while the "war" framing reflects the struggle against celebrity-driven network dominance, the real story is the robustness of middle-tier creators who are building sustainable, profitable businesses on their own terms. Finally, the episode looks at Spotify’s rollout of AI-prompted playlists for podcasts and the ongoing friction of cumbersome guest intake forms.Come to hang out with us!⭐️ Apple Podcasts Video Q&A, with Elsie Escobar - YouTubeLinks to interesting things from this episode:People & ShowsJohn Coogan & Jordi Hays: Hosts of TBPN (Technology Business Programming Network).Frank Racioppi: Owner of Earworthy and Forbes contributor.Cynthia Bemis Abrams: Host of Advanced TV History.Ciara Miller: Reality TV superstar highlighted in the Flattering Ram.Bitch Is BetterBravo! We're BlackMorally Corrupt - YouTubeDumpster Dive Snark BaitSo Bad It's Good with Ryan BaileyApps & TechnologyScooter Labs RSS to CSV: scooterlabs.com/hacks/rss2csv.phpSpotify AI Prompted Playlists: creators.spotify.com/resources/news/prompted-playlistsCaptivate WordPress Plugin Sync: wordpress.org/plugins/captivatesync-trade/Articles & EpisodesOpenAI acquires TBPN | OpenAIThere’s A War Of Independents In PodcastingDAX Expands Into Podcasts Targeting The ‘Missing Middle’ As Ad Demand Grows. | News | podcastnewsdaily.comTop podcast advertisers | Magellan AI — Podcast advertising analyticsIn & Around Podcasting Episode 25: Featuring Frank Racioppi.Everything you need to know in the 'Summer House' scandal which exploded this weekIn & Around Podcasting is a podcast industry podcast started by Mark Asquith and Danny Brown and now hosted by Elsie Escobar and Rob Walch, continuing its mission as an industry show that belongs to the whole community.If you enjoy the show, we'd love for you to leave us a rating or review on your favourite podcast app! You can also drop us a tip at https://www.inandaroundpodcasting.com/support, too!If you're an independent creator who would like to co-host with us, please let us know by emailing the show! [email protected] tell your friends that the show is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube, plus wherever else they may listen to their podcasts.If you'd like your podcast trailer featuring in our "Wave File" segment, submit it via this quick contact form, please.The podcast is also available at In & Around Podcasting.This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Rob Walch and Elsie Escobar reunite to host together for the first time in 159 days! They look back at their own "episode 28" milestones from 2005 to 2014 and share stories from other creators who found their rhythm at the same point in their journey.The conversation covers the launch of HLS video support in Apple Podcasts. Rob explains how this adaptive streaming works, why it matters for listeners who switch between audio and video, and why you might not need it yet if you are an audio-first creator.You will also hear about Rob’s time at SXSW in Austin, including his experience with Tesla's robotaxis and the growing influence of the city on the podcast industry. Finally, Elsie tries to break down the engineering behind Marco Arment’s new transcription system for Overcast and why it is a win for listeners.Guest contributors & insight in this episode: Danny Brown (Five Random Questions), Carolyn Kiel (Beyond Six Seconds), Stacey Sims (Diabetes Connections), Kristen Sundin Brandt (Cycling Together), and Steve Stewart (SteveStewart.me).Links to interesting things from this episodePeople & ShowsDanny Brown – Five Random QuestionsCarolyn Kiel – Beyond Six SecondsStacey Sims – Diabetes ConnectionsKristen Sundin Brandt – Cycling TogetherSteve Stewart – SteveStewart.meVictor Cajiao – Typical Mac UserGrant Baciocco – The Radio Adventures of Dr. FloydJim Louderback – (Video/Media Expert mentioned at SXSW)Valentina Kaledina at Castbox – (Mentioned for her SXSW summary)Marco Arment – Creator of Overcast and host of ATPApps & TechnologyOvercast – (Specifically for the new transcript feature)Unwatched – (The YouTube queue app Elsie recommended)Captivate Announced as Day One Launch Partner for Apple Podcasts’ New HLS Video Release – (The specific support/FAQs page)Apple introduces a new video podcast experience on Apple Podcasts – (Specifically regarding the iOS 26.4 update)Articles & EpisodesATP (Accidental Tech Podcast) Episode 683 – (The story of building the transcript system)Grit Daily News Article – (The piece about power players at SXSW where Rob was quoted)Valentina’s SXSW Summary – (The industry perspective from Castbox)Elsie's Yoga Class Episode 28In & Around Podcasting is a podcast industry podcast started by Mark Asquith and Danny Brown and now hosted by Elsie Escobar and Rob Walch, continuing its mission as an industry show that belongs to the whole community.If you enjoy the show, we'd love for you to leave us a rating or review on your favourite podcast app! You can also drop us a tip at https://www.inandaroundpodcasting.com/support, too!If you're an independent creator who would like to co-host with us, please let us know by emailing the show! [email protected] tell your friends that the show is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube, plus wherever else they may listen to their podcasts.If you'd like your podcast trailer featuring in our "Wave File" segment, submit it via this quick contact form, please.The podcast is also available at In & Around Podcasting.This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

When it comes to podcasting, many indie creators (and some bigger ones, too) don't consider the legalities that might come up, especially since their podcast might start out as just a hobby.But that can lead to a lot of issues down the line, and ones that not only might see content taken down, but large lawsuits coming into effect too. So what can you do to negate this?Join Danny Brown and guest co-host Gordon Firemark as they discuss the legalities around podcasting and why you should take notice of them.Guest co-host this episode: Gordon Firemark Gordon Firemark, The Podcast Lawyer™ is an attorney, educator, and coach who helps creative professionals and entrepreneurs get the legal and business stuff handled—so they can focus on the message and make the impact, influence, and income they deserve. With over three decades of legal experience and a long history as a podcaster and YouTuber himself, Gordon has become the go-to resource for creator who want to protect and grow their shows without legal headaches. He’s the author of The Podcast, Blog & New Media Producers’ Legal Survival Guide, and creator of the Easy Legal for Podcasters™ program, which empowers independent creators with the tools, templates, and knowledge they need to run professional, legally sound podcasts, blogs, YouTube channels and more. Gordon's Website Gordon's Facebook group Gordon's Facebook page @gordonfiremark on Instagram Gordon on YouTube Links to interesting things from this episodeUnlimited podcast hosting • Best podcast platform • Captivate.fmSounds ProfitablePodcast IndexPodnews podcasting newsIn & Around Podcasting is a podcast industry podcast started by Mark Asquith and Danny Brown and now hosted by Elsie Escobar and Rob Walch, continuing its mission as an industry show that belongs to the whole community.If you enjoy the show, we'd love for you to leave us a rating or review on your favourite podcast app! You can also drop us a tip at https://www.inandaroundpodcasting.com/support, too!If you're an independent creator who would like to co-host with us, please let us know by emailing the show! [email protected] tell your friends that the show is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube, plus wherever else they may listen to their podcasts.If you'd like your podcast trailer featuring in our "Wave File" segment, submit it via this quick contact form, please.The podcast is also available at In & Around Podcasting.This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

In this special bonus episode, Mark and Danny share their thoughts on The Podcast Show London - what worked, what didn't work, and some ideas for future shows. Links to interesting things from this episodeThe Gerry Anderson Podcast - from Thunderbirds to Space 1999Podcast Industry Keynote: The Year That Was - And The Year To Come In Podcasting - Podcast Show 2025The Podcast Show LondonIn & Around Podcasting is a podcast industry podcast started by Mark Asquith and Danny Brown and now hosted by Elsie Escobar and Rob Walch, continuing its mission as an industry show that belongs to the whole community.If you enjoy the show, we'd love for you to leave us a rating or review on your favourite podcast app! You can also drop us a tip at https://www.inandaroundpodcasting.com/support, too!If you're an independent creator who would like to co-host with us, please let us know by emailing the show! [email protected] tell your friends that the show is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube, plus wherever else they may listen to their podcasts.If you'd like your podcast trailer featuring in our "Wave File" segment, submit it via this quick contact form, please.The podcast is also available at In & Around Podcasting.This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy