Be a Better Podcaster with Jamie and Jaayne

We’re diving into the challenges podcasters face when it comes to understanding their audience beyond the flashy year-end summaries. While platforms like Spotify and Goodreads showcase a neat wrap-up of the year, we know that for creators, it often leaves us feeling frustrated because it only shows a fraction of the full picture.

That’s why we’re rolling out a six-step approach to help you create a comprehensive feedback document that digs deeper into your analytics. We’ll cover everything from establishing core numbers to identifying your best episodes and leveraging audience patterns to craft a solid plan for 2026.

By the end, you’ll have a clear strategy that goes beyond the surface and gets to the heart of what your audience really wants.

Takeaways:

• Every December, the Internet is flooded with wrapped summaries highlighting our past year.
• As creators, we often feel frustrated with how limited data from Spotify and others can be.
• It's essential to analyze not just total downloads, but also listener engagement on various platforms.
• Understanding geographic data can reveal unexpected opportunities for connecting with new audiences.

Products Used for Be a Better Podcaster

Note: these may contain affiliate links, so I get a small percentage of any product you buy when using my link.

Equipment:

We’re diving into the nitty-gritty of annual audits for content creators, especially as we head toward 2026. It's all about swapping that guesswork and gut feeling for cold, hard data.

We’ll outline a simple, structured process to help you review your 2025 goals and see what worked and what didn’t—because let’s face it, without this clarity, you're just flying blind into the new year. You’ll learn how to document your achievements and challenges, turning those insights into actionable plans.

By the end of this episode, you'll be equipped to not just reflect but to build a sustainable strategy for your content journey ahead.

Takeaways:

• As content creators, we often feel the pressure to coast into the holidays, but planning for the new year should happen now.
• An annual audit is crucial for leveraging past performance data, especially when setting goals for 2026.
• It's essential to document not just the numbers, but also the habits and energy levels that contributed to those results.
• Identifying gaps between your goals and actual performance helps you make better strategic adjustments going forward.

Products Used for Be a Better Podcaster

Note: these may contain affiliate links, so I get a small percentage of any product you buy when using my link.

Equipment:

Today, we're tackling a hot topic for podcasters: sponsorships. Should you go for them? How do you find the right ones? We’re cutting through the confusion and getting into the nitty-gritty of building effective collaborations that actually make sense for your show and your audience.

It's not just about slapping an ad in your episode; it’s about strategy and genuine partnerships that resonate with your listeners.

Join us as we unpack insights from Danny at Be a Better Podcaster, aiming to help you navigate the jungle of sponsorships while maintaining trust and integrity with your audience.

Takeaways:

• In the podcasting world, finding the right sponsorship fit is crucial for success and listener trust.
• Direct pitching to brands can be an effective strategy, especially when you understand your audience well.
• It's essential to focus on engagement metrics rather than just download numbers when seeking sponsorships.
• Misaligned sponsorships can damage your relationship with listeners and hurt brand reputations over time.
• Building authentic partnerships with brands is more beneficial than simply chasing ad dollars for your podcast.
• Podcasters should prioritize quality connections over quantity, focusing on brands that genuinely align with their values.

Products Used for Be a Better Podcaster

Note: these may contain affiliate links, so I get a small percentage of any product you buy when using my link.

Equipment:

Today's chat dives deep into a topic that's often brushed under the rug in the podcasting scene: mental health challenges. We kick things off by highlighting how the creative buzz of podcasting can sometimes clash with the hidden struggles that come after the mic is off.

We explore Danny's personal story, where he faced depression and anxiety, shining a light on how these issues can creep up, especially in a solitary creative environment. As we unpack the pressures of solo podcasting, from editing woes to the stress of analytics, we stress the importance of normalizing conversations about mental health in our community.

Ultimately, we’re here to remind ourselves that it’s okay to struggle and that support is vital, so let’s chat about how we can create safer spaces for each other.

Takeaways:

• Creative work can be super fulfilling, but it also comes with hidden struggles.
• Many podcasters face mental health issues due to the pressures of the job.
• Isolation in podcasting can amplify mental health challenges, making creators feel alone.
• The pressure to achieve and produce can lead to anxiety and self-doubt for podcasters.
• We need to talk more openly about mental health within the podcasting community.
• Creating supportive spaces for podcasters can help combat the stigma around mental health issues.

Mentioned in today's episode

After nearly three years of quick-hit podcasting tips in under 60 seconds, One Minute Podcast Tips is evolving.

In the next few weeks, I’ll be shifting from this micro format to a bi-weekly livestream on YouTube, where you can join me live for deeper conversations, community Q&As, and real-time podcasting advice.