School of Podcasting - Podcast Tips to Plan, Launch, Grow Your Podcast
Dave Jackson
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What if I told you that most interviews are mind-numbingly boring, and you're probably doing them wrong? Today I interview Tracy Johnson, and after decades in radio and working with countless shows, he's written a book, Mic Drop Moments, that shares the secrets to transforming mediocre conversations into absolute "Didya Hear That?!" moments.
In this episode, we pull back the curtain on selecting guests that will electrify your audience, ask questions that make people lean in, and tell stories that keep listeners hanging on every word. Whether you're a seasoned podcaster or just starting out, what we share will completely change how you approach interviews forever. So if you're ready to stop settling for bland, forgettable conversations and start creating audio magic, hit play right now.
The Triple Threat Filter for Interview Guests:
1. Familiarity
- How well-known is the guest to your audience?
- A familiar guest brings built-in interest and recognition
- More famous guests typically make better interview subjects
- Provides an immediate connection for listeners
2. Relevance
- Does the guest's story or background matter to your audience?
- Must align with your podcast's theme and target listeners
- Simply being famous isn't enough if the content doesn't resonate
- The guest should provide value specific to your show's focus
3. Interest/Entertainment
- Can the guest tell a compelling story?
- Ability to be engaging, dynamic, and captivating
- Brings unique perspectives or unexpected narratives
- Makes the host look good by providing memorable content
Aim to have at least two out of three criteria met. If you lose two out of three, the interview will likely be challenging to make interesting. The ultimate goal is to leverage the guest's story to enhance your podcast's entertainment value.
The 3E's of Entertainment:
1. Enhance
- Add extra details to make the story more interesting
- Go beyond the basic facts
- Ask questions like "What were you thinking at that moment?"
- Create additional context that wasn't initially present
- Make the story more vivid and engaging
2. Exaggerate
- Slightly amplify the story's impact
- Turn a small moment into a bigger narrative
- Example: A small fish becomes "the biggest catch of the season."
- Create dramatic tension without losing the core truth
- Make the story more memorable and exciting
3. Embellish
- Add creative storytelling elements
- Stage the story for maximum entertainment value
- Take a brief moment and turn it into a full narrative
- Example: A simple backstage conversation becomes an epic ping pong challenge
- Use creative license to make the story more compelling
As audiences crave authenticity, Tracy isn't saying to lie, but you can bring in adjectives that trigger the theater of the mind.
Resources Mention
Episode 677 The Ultimate Guide to Hosting and Guesting Podcast Interviews
Drew Carey on Jordan Harbinger Show (start at 48:14 nsfw)
Howie Mandel on Jordan Harbinger
Find "All Things Dave" at powerofpodcasting.com
Say Thanks for a Great Show schoolofpodcasting.com/thanks
Mentioned in this episode:
Question of the Month: Got a Question For the Question of the Month?
We've done this before. What would you ask if you were me? What question would you ask a group of podcasters? Be sure to say a little bit about your show and your website so we can give you a shoutout. I need you to answer by May 23rd, 20225.
Join the School of Podcasting Today - Your Future Self Will Thank You
Stepping out of your comfort zone isn't easy, but at the School of Podcasting, we're here to make it feel like second nature. With our expertly crafted courses and an incredible community, you're never alone in your journey. From planning and launching to growing your podcast, I’ll be right by your side every step of the way. Remember, every podcast episode builds connections and opens doors to future opportunities. Take action today, and let your future self reap the rewards.
I Want Your Opinion
I am doing an audience survey and I want your input to help me make this show exactly what you want. If you have a few minutes, I have a quick survey at www.schoolofpodcasting.com/survey25
Live Appearances
I'd love to meet you in person, I'm currently coming to July 12th, 20025 Higher Ed Podcon, Chicago, Ill AUGUST 18-21, 2025 Podcast Movement, Dallas, TX. September 26-28, 2005, Empowered Podcasting Conference, Uptown Charlotte, NC For more information and links, click the link below. If you'd like for me to speak at an in-person or online event, go to schoolofpodcasting.com/contact
Money, money, money! Yeah, I know, we’re all rolling our eyes thinking, "Ugh, not another boring finance chat!" But hold onto your wallets, because this isn’t your grandpa’s finance talk.
Our buddy Ray Edwards, a top-notch copywriter, shares a jaw-dropping story about how he made a cool million but ended up in bankruptcy—wait, what? How does that happen?
I spill the beans on my own bankruptcy saga, sharing how emotional decisions can lead us down a slippery slope. And hey, we’re not just here to mope; we’ve got Steve Stewart from the Podcast Editors Academy joining us to sprinkle in some wisdom about putting profit first. Buckle up, because we’re throwing in some sarcastic humor while we unravel the absurdity of our financial choices!
Takeaways:
- Ignoring your finances is like playing with fire while blindfolded—eventually, you'll get burned.
- Being bankrupt after making millions is the ultimate plot twist—stay alert or face the absurdity!
- Don't let emotions rule your financial decisions; logic over feelings keeps the money in your pocket.
- Track every penny if you want to keep your business afloat; otherwise, expect to sink!
Companies mentioned in this episode:
- Ray Edwards
- Steve Stewart
- Podcast Editor Academy (get the free download)
- Profit First book
- Novo (get $40 off once qualified)
- Relay
- Wave Apps
- Acorns
- Sofi
- Gordon Firemark
- Ralph Estepp
- Cronometer Fitness Tracker
- School of Podcasting
Mentioned in this episode:
Question of the Month: Got a Question For the Question of the Month?
We've done this before. What would you ask if you were me? What question would you ask a group of podcasters? Be sure to say a little bit about your show and your website so we can give you a shoutout. I need you to answer by May 23rd, 20225.
Check Out Dave's Newsletter With Behind the Scenes Content
In each issue of Podcasting Observations, I share my thoughts on what is happening in the podcasting space, my latest content, and things that have caught my eye. I also may ask for your opinion. Join the free community
Worry Free Podcasting
Are you ready to take your podcasting dreams to the next level? Look no further than the School of Podcasting. With over 19 years of experience, I’ve helped countless individuals plan, launch, grow, and monetize their podcasts the right way. My comprehensive courses cover everything from content creation to tackling technology, ensuring you sound professional and confident. Join our supportive community of podcasters, access weekly group coaching, and receive unlimited one-on-one consulting. Don't let fear hold you back. With my 30-day money-back guarantee, you can start your podcasting journey risk-free. Go to schoolofpodcasting.com/join and be on your way to podcast success.
Normally, I try to stay positive and encouraging. Maybe I still am, as I encourage you not to fall for these Podcast Tools (often based on AI) that promise great success and wealth without doing any work. Here are some of the things this company (who will remain nameless) promised:
- A chart-topping podcast in minutes
- You don't even need a microphone (think about that)
- Just let AI clone your voice, make an AI video version of you, and make six figures.
- Podcasting is expensive (it's not -you can get started for $80)
- Instant money from advertising (when big sponsors need 10-20,000 downloads per episode)
- It quotes successful podcasts that aren't using their system (and sell their own products, not advertising).
Takeaways:
- You don't monetize a podcast - you monetize an audience.
- If it were this easy, everyone would do it - and all podcasts would be the same.
- Many podcasting scams prey on the uneducated, making it sound easy to succeed.
- Building a podcast audience takes time, typically around three years, so be patient.
- Don't fall for the hype that you can create a podcast in minutes without effort.
- You can't skip the hard work of podcasting and expect to succeed; it requires consistency in schedule and consistency in quality content.
Mentioned In This Episode
Will “Verified” Downloads Ruin Podcast Advertising
Mentioned in this episode:
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When you join the School of Podcasting you get UNLIMITED one-on-one coaching, an awesome community and courses like: Planning Your Podcast Podcasting Gear Growing Your Podcast Podcast Monetization and many more - all for one low price.
Check Out Dave's Newsletter With Behind the Scenes Content
In each issue of Podcasting Observations, I share my thoughts on what is happening in the podcasting space, my latest content, and things that have caught my eye. I also may ask for your opinion. Join the free community
Question of the Month: Got a Question For the Question of the Month?
We've done this before. What would you ask if you were me? What question would you ask a group of podcasters? Be sure to say a little bit about your show and your website so we can give you a shoutout. I need you to answer by May 23rd, 20225.
Ever find yourself staring at a blank screen, just waiting for the podcast gods to drop some divine inspiration in your lap? Yeah, me too. But don’t worry, we’re exploring the world of podcast ideas today!
I asked you, the wonderful listeners, how you come up with your brilliant episode topics, and trust me, some of the answers are pure gold. From scavenging through old notes to eavesdropping on pharmacy conferences, we’ve got tips and tricks to keep those creative juices flowing. So, whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned podcaster struggling for content, jump in and let’s figure this out together—because who doesn’t love a good brainstorming session, right?
Participants
Kim Newlove
https://www.thepharmacistsvoice.com/
https://www.perrysburgpodcast.com/
Dan LeFebvre
https://www.basedonatruestorypodcast.com
Justin Blackett
https://www.shipshapepodcast.co.uk/
Takeaways:
- When you're stuck for podcast ideas, sometimes it's easier to think about what not to discuss.
- Finding inspiration for episodes can come from anywhere, even from the most mundane situations.
- Engaging with your audience directly can help generate content ideas that resonate with them.
- Using tools like feed readers can streamline how you gather information and find inspiration for your show.
- Podcasts often draw content from current events, books, or personal experiences that resonate with the audience.
- The key to successful podcasting is staying curious and always looking for new perspectives and stories.
Links referenced in this episode:
- schoolofpodcasting.com
- thepharmacistsvoice.com
- perrysburgpodcast.com
- shipshapepodcast.co.uk
- basedonatruestorypodcast.com
- inoreader.com
- feedly.com
- Notejoy (affiliate link)
Data is like your podcasting superpower, folks! If you want to grow your show, you gotta get your hands on the right stats. Seriously, knowing what’s working and what’s not can save you from wasting your time. We dive into the nitty-gritty of how to collect and use data from places like Apple and Spotify to figure out your audience and their habits. Don’t worry, we’ll also have a laugh or two about how confusing all this can be, because who doesn’t love a good irony sandwich? So, buckle up, and let’s turn those numbers into something that actually helps your podcast shine!
Data Sources:
You can see how many Apple followers you have, and how far they are listening (and compare episodes to median and best numbers.
You can see how many Spotify followers you have as well as demographic data of your audience. You can also see how far people listen. You can also see how often your show was shown, and how that lead to people listening.
You can see how many people on Amazon Music are following you, how many downloads you get and how far people listen
Your Media Host
This could be Captivate, Buzzsprout, Blubrry, Transistor, Libsyn, etc (I do not recommend Spotify). Here you can see how many downloads you get per episode, and see the location of your audience.
Google Analytics
Here you can see the top pages of your website, among many other things. You can find it at analytics.google.com
YouTube
YouTube statistics are impressive and show you an insane amount of detail. The stat I look at is how far people watch. Keep in mind a video on a YouTube short is anything above zero
Audience Survey
When in doub,t ASK YOUR AUDIENCE. This is the #1 way to get direct feedback from your audience. Check out the book, "The Audience in Listening" by Tom Webster, regarding creating a survey (or use the one built into Podpage).
Takeaways:
- Data is your podcasting superpower; it helps you know what's working and what's not.
- If you're seeking sponsors, understanding your audience demographics is absolutely essential.
- Start with the end in mind; knowing your goals helps you get the right data.
- Don't just hope for feedback; ask your audience directly with surveys for better insights.
- Using platforms like Google Analytics can reveal hidden gems about your podcast's online performance.
- Remember, marketing your podcast is as essential as creating it; be strategic about your approach.
Links referenced in this episode:
- Episode 896 on UTMs
- Book - The Mom Test: How to talk to customers & learn if your business is a good idea when everyone is lying to you
- Book The Audience is Listening by Tom Webster
- podcastsconnect.apple.com
- podcasters.spotify.com
- podcasters.amazon.com
- analytics.google.com
- Google Webmaster Dashboard
- School of Podcasting
- Google UTM Creator - Video
DISCLAIMER: All opinions are mine. Some links are affiliate links, meaning that if you buy something through a qualifying link, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Mentioned in this episode:
Question of the Month: Where Do You Get Ideas For Your Podcast?
I saw this in a Facebook Group and thought it would be a question for all of us to chime in on. "What do you use... "How do you ... ...come up with ideas for your podcast? I need your answer by 4/25/25 Go to www.schoolofpodcasting.com/question
Everything Your Need - Everywhere Your Need It - Every Question Answered
Are you ready to take your podcasting skills to the next level? Look no further than the School of podcasting. The number one site for learning how to podcast. Here’s why: First, you can learn everything you need to know everywhere you go. Whether you’re on your phone, computer, tablet, or TV, the best resources are right here. Second, anytime you have a question, Hall of Fame Podcaster Dave Jackson is just one click away, and offers unlimited coaching. Throw in the amazing podcaster community that can guide you every step of the way and you have yourself a no-brainer. And finally, we’re so confident that you’ll love what you learn, we offer a 30-day money-back guarantee. Don't miss out on this opportunity to elevate your podcasting journey. Join us today! at schoolofpodcasting.com
Check Out Dave's Newsletter With Behind the Scenes Content
In each issue of Podcasting Observations, I share my thoughts on what is happening in the podcasting space, my latest content, and things that have caught my eye. I also may ask for your opinion. Join the free community