School of Podcasting - Plan, Launch, Grow and Monetize Your Podcast
Dave Jackson
Recent Episodes
Are you worried about not just starting a podcast, but keeping it going? I dig into essential strategies for sustaining your podcasting journey, emphasizing the importance of knowing your "why." I share personal stories and actionable tips to help you identify your passion and maintain motivation.
From brainstorming episode ideas to understanding the time commitment, I encourage you to start small and seek feedback. I also discuss the significance of focusing on the aspects of podcasting you love, ensuring the process remains enjoyable and fulfilling.
Takeaways:
- Understanding your 'why' is crucial for sustaining your podcast long-term and keeping you motivated.
- Creating at least 10 episode ideas can help you maintain content flow and avoid burnout.
- Start simple to avoid overwhelming yourself with complex setups and equipment.
- Seek feedback from non-family members to ensure your content resonates with your target audience.
- Recording practice episodes can help you gauge time investment and refine your skills before launching publicly.
- Remember, not every podcast needs to last forever; it's okay to stop when your message is delivered.
Links referenced in this episode:
- schoolofpodcasting.com
- schoolofpodcasting.com/survey25
- buzzsprout.com/stats
- Shure MV7i
- Shure Move Mic Lavaliers
- Rode Podmic USB
- sweetwater.com
- bhphotovideo.com
- podpage.com
- Dealcasters
- Castahead
- Babel Language Learning.
Mentioned in this episode:
Live Appearances
I love nothing more than meeting you at events. To see my schedule, see www.schoolofpdcasting.com/were to have me speak at your event (on and offline) see www.schoolofpodcasting.com/contact
Join the #1 Podcast Education Site - The School of Podcasting
Adam Curry is the co-founder of Podcasting (and the co-host of the No Agenda Show). When asked about learning how to podcast Adam said, "The place to go with the guy who has taught more people how to podcast than anybody I know - Dave Jackson, School of Podcasting.com"
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
Question of the Month
For this month, we are looking at those things that make you go 'Ugh," or press fast forward, or maybe swipe and unfollow. What are you top pet peaves? Don't forget to tell us a little bit about your show (the elevator pitch) and where we can find your (your website so I can link to it in the show description). I need your answer by January 24th 2025.
In this episode, I’m joined by Doc G (Dr. Jordan Grumet), the author of The Purpose Code: How to unlock meaning, maximize happiness, and leave a lasting legacy, to tackle one of the biggest challenges podcasters face—not the technology, not the gear,
- but the mental game.
Whether it's "head trash," imposter syndrome, or the overwhelming pressure to succeed, Doc G shares practical strategies to help you push past mental barriers and create a podcast you truly love.
Doc G shares his journey from a successful medical career to finding purpose and fulfillment in podcasting and writing. Together, we explore how to shift your focus from Big P Podcasting (chasing massive downloads and unrealistic goals) to Little P Podcasting (finding joy in the process and creating meaningful content).
You’ll also hear about:
- The difference between "big P purpose" and "little P purpose"—and why it matters for your podcast.
- How to identify what lights you up and makes your podcast worth doing, even if no one listens.
- Why striving for massive success without joy often leads to burnout.
- Practical tips for overcoming purpose anxiety and building a podcasting routine you love.
More From Doc G
The Purpose Code: How to unlock meaning, maximize happiness, and leave a lasting legacy
The Purpose Code Video Trailer
Because of My Podcast: Zita Christan
Zita does two podcasts: My Spouse Has Dementia and Ritual Recipes. Today, she shares how she was featured in US News and World Report because of her podcast. Paul Wynn had found her podcast (and her transcripts) and interviewed her for his article titled, Easing Holiday Isolation. US News and World Report has approximately 41 million visitors to their site per month. She was also interviewed for another newspaper.
For all things Zita Christian see zitachristian.com
Takeaways:
- The mental barriers that podcasters face often overshadow technical challenges like equipment or hosting.
- Identifying and pursuing little 'p' purposes can lead to a more fulfilling podcasting journey.
- Creating a podcast driven by passion rather than big goals fosters genuine connections with listeners.
- Purpose anxiety can hinder progress, making it crucial to focus on what excites you.
- Engaging deeply with your podcast's content can attract a community that resonates with your message.
- Building a podcast around your interests creates joy and can lead to organic audience growth.
Mentioned In This Episode
The School of Podcasting - Plan, Launch, and Grow Your Podcast.
Doc on the School of Podcasting Interesting AND Unique Doc G Mixes Hospice and Finance
The Purpose Code: How to unlock meaning, maximize happiness, and leave a lasting legacy
School of Podcasting Podcast Launch Checklist
Mentioned in this episode:
Live Appearances
I love nothing more than meeting you at events. To see my schedule, see www.schoolofpdcasting.com/were to have me speak at your event (on and offline) see www.schoolofpodcasting.com/contact
Question of the Month
For this month, we are looking at those things that make you go 'Ugh," or press fast forward, or maybe swipe and unfollow. What are you top pet peaves? Don't forget to tell us a little bit about your show (the elevator pitch) and where we can find your (your website so I can link to it in the show description). I need your answer by January 24th 2025.
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
Every year, I ask my audience, "What is your favorite podcast - and WHY." When we hear what resonates with people, we can ensure we include those ingredients in our show.
Participants
Steve Stewart from The Podcast Editor Academy and the Podcast Editors Mastermind loves Stacking Benjamins.
Ralph Estep Jr from the Ask Ralph Podcast (Christian Finance) loves the Ask the Podcast Coach show.
Randy Black from Bible Bytes loves the No Agenda Show.
Kim Newlove from The Pharmacist’s Voice and Perrysburg Podcast loves The Erectile Dysfunction Radio show.
York from Welcome to Earth Stories loves Podtastic Audio.
Wolfman Mike from the 70's vs 80's show loves Beach too Sandy Water too wet
Harris from His Daughter's Podcast Loves the Founders Podcast
Chris Nesi from House of Ed Tech AND the NEW Perpetual Syndication loves the Al and Jerry Postgame Podcast
Louis Goodman from Love thy Lawyer loves Commentary.
Zita Christian from Ritual Recipes and My Spouse Has Dementia loves the Build a Big Podcast.
Craig Wealand from Aprender ingles with Reza and Craig loves The Bugle podcast.
Ron Eastwood (not his voice) from Morning's With Brian loves the Truce podcast.
Dave Jackson from the School of Podcasting loves the No Agenda Show
Gear Used Today
Mentioned in this episode:
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
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.
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
Video podcasting offers unique advantages and challenges, making it essential for creators to weigh the pros and cons before diving in. While video can enhance engagement through visual cues and body language, audio podcasts provide greater portability and simplicity in production. Dave Jackson explores the contrasting benefits of both formats, highlighting that audio often leads to better memory recall and a more personal connection with listeners. As the landscape of podcasting evolves, particularly with platforms like Spotify and YouTube gaining traction, understanding the implications of these choices is crucial. By the end of this discussion, you'll be equipped with insights to decide whether to integrate video into your podcasting strategy.
Takeaways:
- Video podcasts can enhance audience engagement through visual cues and body language, creating a more relatable experience.
- Audio podcasts offer greater portability for multitasking, making them ideal for commuting or exercising.
- The production of audio podcasts is simpler, requiring less equipment and allowing more casual guest appearances.
- Completion rates for audio podcasts tend to be higher than those for video podcasts, indicating better listener retention.
- YouTube and Spotify compete for podcasting dominance, but each has different monetization challenges.
- While video can expand audience reach, it also incurs additional production costs and time commitments.
Links referenced in this episode:
- schoolofpodcasting.com
- askthepodcastcoach.com
- Podnews Weekly Review
- Podcast Index
- Media Round Table
- Sound Off Podcast
- mixlr.com
- Sweetwater (aff)
- Sounds Profitable
Gear Mentioned
Viltrox 2 pack LCD with remote
Rode Wireless Mico lavalier Microphone
Mentioned in this episode:
What Is Your Favorite Podcast in 2024 and WHY?
If you could only pick ONE show as "Your favorite in 2024" Here is what I need: The name of the show. The website address. A little bit about it, and then go AS LONG AS YOU WANT as to WHY it is your favorite. Then tell us your show's name, the website address, and a little bit about it (so I can add you to the show notes).
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
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.
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
Live Appearances
I love nothing more than meeting you at events. To see my schedule, see www.schoolofpdcasting.com/were to have me speak at your event (on and offline) see www.schoolofpodcasting.com/contact
Creating an effective audience survey is essential for understanding what your listeners want and how to enhance their experience.
This episode dives into the crucial steps for crafting survey questions that engage your audience and encourage participation. Dave Jackson emphasizes the importance of knowing your audience and keeping surveys concise, ideally under ten questions, to boost completion rates.
He also discusses strategies for increasing responses, such as using incentives and clear communication about the benefits of participating. By the end, you'll have actionable insights to help you design a survey that not only gathers valuable feedback but also strengthens your relationship with your listeners.
Takeaways:
- Begin your survey with a concise opening paragraph explaining how respondents will benefit.
- Keep your survey short, ideally under 10 questions for higher completion rates.
- Incentives can increase survey participation but ensure they don’t skew honest feedback.
- Use relevant questions that engage your audience and avoid demographic questions at the start.
- Incorporate a progress bar to inform participants how far along they are in the survey.
- Make sure to remind your audience about the survey to boost responses regularly.
Links referenced in this episode:
- schoolofpodcasting.com
- schoolofpodcasting.com/contact
- schoolofpodcasting.com/survey
- podpage.com
- schoolofpodcasting.com/962
- schoolofpodcasting.com/961 (last week)
- Pointer Pro
- Survicate
- Edison Research Listener Survey Template
- PodPage.com
- Google Forms
- Jotform
- Tally
- The Audience is Listening Book by Tom Webster
Join the School of Podcasting
Are you looking to start your own podcast but don't know where to begin? Look no further than the School of Podcasting. Our comprehensive online courses and one-on-one coaching will teach you everything you need to know, from equipment and editing to marketing and monetization. With our proven methods and expert instructors, you'll create high-quality, engaging content quickly. Say goodbye to the frustration and uncertainty, and hello to a successful podcasting career with the School of Podcasting.
No Surveys For You?
If you're a person who has never done an audience survey, and don't plan on any in the future, I'd love to understand why (I'm always interested in different points of view). I'd love to hear why.
Mentioned in this episode:
Question of the Month
For this month, we are looking at those things that make you go 'Ugh," or press fast forward, or maybe swipe and unfollow. What are you top pet peaves? Don't forget to tell us a little bit about your show (the elevator pitch) and where we can find your (your website so I can link to it in the show description). I need your answer by January 24th 2025.
Live Appearances
I love nothing more than meeting you at events. To see my schedule, see www.schoolofpdcasting.com/were to have me speak at your event (on and offline) see www.schoolofpodcasting.com/contact
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