School of Podcasting: Expert Tips for Launching and Growing Your Podcast

Alright, so if you’re a podcaster looking to snag more listeners and get them hooked on your back catalog, then buckle up, because we’re diving into binge triggers straight outta the Netflix playbook. We’re breaking down three juicy strategies that can keep your audience glued to their headphones, even after they’ve finished your latest episode. Plus, we’ve got a heartwarming “because of my podcast” story from Ray Arnott that’ll make you believe in the magic of podcasting. So, if you're tired of people tuning in and then bouncing faster than a bad date, stick around. We’re gonna make your podcast the one they're bingeing on next!1. Open Loops (Brain Gaps)What It Is:An open loop is an unresolved element in your content—a question, mystery, or ongoing storyline that the listener subconsciously wants resolved. This is a storytelling technique borrowed from TV and movies: cliffhangers, subplots, or even hints about future developments that drive people to keep watching (or listening) to find out what happens next.Examples from the Episode:uses TV examples like Will Trent and Tracker:"There's a problem at the beginning of the episode… and 50 minutes later, give or take, the problem is solved. … On occasion they'll do a two-parter with a cliffhanger." (01:39)In Will Trent, the ongoing subplot about the main character being disliked and saving a dog (an adaptation of the “save the cat” storytelling trope) gets the audience rooting for him, creating emotional investment through an open loop about his relationships and backstory."You have this underlying story that's going through the whole thing, and I believe that's why we are binging content." (13:11)In podcasts, an open loop could be as simple as starting a story in one episode and promising to finish it later, or introducing a mystery or a question (“Did James ever fix his solar panels?”) that’s answered in a later episode.How To Use:Tease questions (“Next week, I’ll reveal the results…”)Continue a personal story arc across episodesDangle small mysteries (“I opened the door and only saw one of the three things I was looking for…”) (Share journey updates that listeners want closure or progress on2. Teasers & Episode StructureWhat It Is:Tease content before and after episodes to contextualize your podcast for new and returning listeners. By referencing what was discussed in previous episodes and previewing what’s coming next, you build a web of episodes that feel interconnected—just like "Next Episode" buttons on streaming platforms encourage more watching.Examples from the Episode:highlights Harry Duran’s approach:"He introduces his show… 'If you missed last week's episode, we talked to so-and-so about such and such…' On today's show, we're talking with so-and-so. … At the end of the show… he knows what the next episode is. … You now have 3 ideas of what this show is about." (08:28)The benefit is, if listeners hear a recap of a past episode or a preview of the next, they’re incentivized to explore your other episodes—bingeing your back catalog.How To Use:At the start: preview what’s happening in the current episode and what listeners missed if they haven’t heard recent contentAt the end: teaser for the next episode (e.g., “Next week, I’m talking to…”)Mention popular or related episodes (“Check out our past episode on…”)Structure your season thematically, so every episode contributes to a bigger picture (e.g., a season all about podcast hardware invites listeners to hear the whole set)3. Ongoing Initiatives & Personal JourneysWhat It Is:Maintain a continuous, real-life thread running through your podcast—such as a personal project, journey, or community initiative—which encourages listeners to check back for updates and stay invested in your progress over time.Examples from the Episode:I talk about his “How to Pitch a Podcast” project:“I've been talking about the How to Pitch a Podcast project… I'm not launching the show until I get 20 stories. … It’s an ongoing initiative that people are like, oh, you know, and you might be kind of involved with like, oh, I really want to see this show take off.” (10:23)He references Joanna Penn’s podcast chronicling her journey to become an independent author—listeners followed along as she learned, failed, and eventually succeeded, creating long-term engagement and rooting interest.Many shows use “journey” approaches where listeners are encouraged to follow a process or transformation over time (fitness challenges, entrepreneurial launches, etc.).How To Use:Start a project or challenge and give periodic updates (“I’m launching X, here’s what happened this week…”)Share personal development arcs—what you’re learning, obstacles, and milestonesInvite audience participation (“I need 20 submissions from you before the project goes live!”)In summary:Open loops hook listeners by leaving threads unresolved, making them want to continue and find closure.Teasers and structured episode links make every episode a gateway to others in your catalog, increasing binge potential.Ongoing initiatives or journeys build sustained interest by making listeners part of your process and progress.These strategies ensure listeners don’t just drop in for a single episode—they feel compelled to stick around, binge, and become loyal fans.Becuase of My Podcast: Ray ArnottRay Arnott from the Around the Layout Show (model trains) has been on the show before, and today Ray shares how a listener from Australia is paying for Ray's tripe to come to a model train meetup in Australia!Links referenced in this episode:schoolofpodcasting.compitchapodcast.comaroundthelayout.compodcastjunkies.comnewmediashow.comPet Davidson on Jimmy FallonJoe Rogan with Matt Damon and Ben AffleckSave the Cat BookRay Arnott on the School of Podcasting (on finding Sponsors/Partners)Mentioned in this episode:Question of the Month: Sacrifices and ShortcutsEmily Kate (live from a conference hallway) wants to know "I want to know in the beginning, throughout your story, what sacrifices and shortcuts did you take? Did they work out well? The ones that worked out well and made you a success? What were they? Don't forget to tell us a little bit about your show, and your website address. I need your answer by February 20th, 2026. Go to schoolofpodcasting.com/questionQuestion of the MonthLive AppearancesI love to meet my listeners. You can see where I am appearing/speaking at www.schoolofpodcasting.com/where To have me speak at your even see www.schoolofpodcasting.com/contactWhere Will I Be?Unlock Exclusive Insights: Subscribe to 'Podcasting Observations' Newsletter!Get a look into the world of podcasting like never before with "Podcasting Observations," your go-to source for trends, tips, and transformative insights tailored just for podcasters. You also get "behind the scenes" info from the School of Podcasting Don't miss out on staying ahead of the game—join the 1700+ people who are already reading Podcasting Observations today!Podcasting ObservationsJoin the School of Podcasting Today - Your Future Self Will Thank YouStepping 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.School of Podcasting

I just got back from the Novel Marketing Conference. This was put on by my friend Thomas Umstattd Jr (who has a great podcast for authors). I love single track events, and this one was AMAZING. It was all about book marketing (which applies to podcasting). Only the original Podfest comes close (but that didn't feed me Schlotzky's deli Sandwiches).I need to give credit, the "Four D's" come from Chase Replogle who does a few podcasts including the Pastor Writer, Let's Talk Bible: Kids, and he's the Pastor at Bent Oak Church. His opening keynote was AMAZING. I have adopted it for podcasters.Main Points:Single Track Conferences: I explained why single-track conferences are my favorite—you don’t miss out on sessions, and the Novel Marketing Conference was one of the best I’ve attended.Opening Keynote – The Four Ds: Chase Replogle’s talk resonated with the “Four Ds”: decisiveness, discipline, discernment, and devotion—applies to both writing and podcasting. My favorite: nobody listens to what you record, they listen to what you edit (editing is magic!).Marketing Parallels: Even though this was a book conference, book marketing is a close cousin to podcast marketing. The basic principles really do translate.Serving Your Audience: I reflected on the courage to create, facing the fear of “what if nobody listens?”, and focusing on service and devotion to your listeners.Is Your Podcast a Painkiller or a Vitamin?: Thanks to Thomas Umstattd Jr.’s talk—a “painkiller” solves a direct need, while a “vitamin” is nice to have but not urgent. Think about what pain your show removes for your audience.Podcast Competition: I highlighted that we’re not just competing with other podcasts, but with all forms of entertainment—TV, games, etc. Know your unique value.Why People Listen: People consume podcasts for entertainment, education, or escape. I asked: Does your show serve one (or more) of these needs?Value of Listener’s Time: All podcasts are “free,” but listeners pay with their time. We need to make it worth it.Improving Your Show: Attending other sessions gave me ideas about making changes that truly improve the show rather than just making it different.AI & Prompts: I shared tips I learned about using AI—give ChatGPT clear instructions about who you are, what you need, and who your audience is.Book Covers = Podcast Artwork: Don’t be cheap with your cover! As much as we say not to judge by appearances, we all do. Your show art matters.Networking: The conference structure ensured everyone met and interacted with new people every day—awesome for making connections.Feedback & Iteration: Get feedback and be willing to edit and improve. Like writing, multiple drafts (and edits) make better episodes.Target Audience: Jonathan’s session hit home: don’t just market for yourself—know your actual audience, and don’t trust social media polls alone.Conferences in General: I appreciated speakers not blatantly selling from stage—a rarity!If You Want to Start a Show: Record everything (planning, editing, writing, etc.) to see how much time it takes, then set a sustainable schedule.Finding Your Listeners: Look for audiences in adjacent markets—not just podcasting-specific spaces.More Takeaways: The importance of networking, getting feedback, and attending events that put you in the room with your ideal audience.Mentioned In This EpisodeThomas's Patron ToolboxNovel Marketing PodcastChase ReplogleSchool of PodcastngPodpageMentioned in this episode:Check Out Dave's Newsletter With Behind the Scenes ContentIn 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 communityPodcasting ObservationsDon't Let Your Poor Upbringing Stop Your From Starting Your PodcastIf you grew up attempting to get the attention of your parents, friends, and others but couldn't, podcasting is THE way to get your message out to the WORLD. The School of Podcasting allows you to: Learn at your own pace Network with other brilliant podcasters Get UNLIMITED one-on-one coaching with Dave JacksonSchool of PodcastingLive AppearancesI love to meet my listeners. You can see where I am appearing/speaking at www.schoolofpodcasting.com/where To have me speak at your even see www.schoolofpodcasting.com/contactWhere Will I Be?Question of the Month: Sacrifices and ShortcutsEmily Kate (live from a conference hallway) wants to know "I want to know in the beginning, throughout your story, what sacrifices and shortcuts did you take? Did they work out well? The ones that worked out well and made you a success? What were they? Don't forget to tell us a little bit about your show, and your website address. I need your answer by February 20th, 2026. Go to schoolofpodcasting.com/questionQuestion of the Month

Hey, it’s Dave Jackson from the School of Podcasting, and in this episode, I’m recapping my experience at Podfest 2026, which was a whirlwind of hallway chats, memorable dinners, and some eye-opening lessons. Here’s what I cover:Hallway Conversations & Overheard Myths: I noticed folks were obsessing over tiny details like the exact minute a podcast should release, debating things like whether 8:01am is better than 8:00am. Honestly, I don’t think anyone is waiting by their phone for your show to drop to the minute. Being consistent matters more than timing it down to the second.The Role (and Cost) of AI in Podcasting: I talked to podcasters searching for AI tools that could do everything—generate ideas, write scripts, edit, publish, you name it—ideally for free. The reality is, good AI isn’t free, and companies are raising prices when they add AI features. “AI” stands for “Always Increase” when it comes to your expenses!Reflections on Video: Unlike previous conferences, there wasn’t as much pressure this time to dive into video podcasting. Most folks seemed to realize you don’t want AI or automation to create your whole show. Polishing? Sure, but not producing the meat.A Cool AI Demo: I saw a preview of Episonic AI, which analyzes your past episodes, constructs a target audience profile, and even suggests topics and guests. It was interesting in demo form, but I’d want to play with it myself before really judging.Conference Costs and Why They're So High: I break down just how expensive it is to put on a conference—think $10k to rent an LED screen and $8k just to plug it in. Even coffee for attendees can run $135/gallon! High ticket prices aren’t about gouging attendees; organizers are just trying to cover astronomical hotel fees.Networking Magic: The biggest benefit of these events is always the networking. I had a blast connecting with old friends, like Daniel J. Lewis, Rob Walsh, Rob Greenlee, and James Cridlin, and got to enjoy some great stories and camaraderie.Podcasting Hall of Fame: The Hall of Fame event was a highlight. Seeing so many people who’ve truly served the podcasting community—sharing knowledge, fighting legal battles, innovating—reminded me that serving your audience is the common denominator among podcasting greats.A Word on Programmatic Ads: I discuss my article comparing podcast CPM/programmatic ads to the historic crash of banner ad prices on websites. My worry: as more low-quality, AI-generated shows flood the market and accept pennies, ad rates may sink across the board."How to Pitch a Podcast" Show Update: I’m experimenting with a new show concept where we share the worst—and best—podcast pitches. So far, the main hurdle is getting folks to submit their stories in audio form. I’ve simplified the process, and hope more people will participate. If not, it may become a segment rather than a full show.Final Thoughts: If you went to Podfest, don’t wait to follow up with those business cards—make the most of your new connections! I share about my next steps, including attending the Novel Marketing Conference in Austin, and remind everyone to check out schoolofpodcasting.com if you want personal help growing your show.Mentioned In This EpisodeSchool of Podcasting CommunityPodnewsRich Graham the Merch Drop ShowJeff Grief and the Sell'n Podcast.Electronic Frontier FoundationPodfest ExpoEpisonic.aiCapitvate Media HostingPodcast Hall of Fame ReplayThanks for listening, please share the show if you found it valuable, and I’ll catch you next week!Mentioned in this episode:Podcast Hotseat Jump Start Your Podcast GrowthWhen you sit in the Podcast Hot Seat, you get help finding what you're doing right (so you can do more of that) and identifying those things that might need a little help. You also get a month of access to the School of Podcasting, which includes unlimited coaching.Podcast HotseatLive AppearancesI love to meet my listeners. You can see where I am appearing/speaking at www.schoolofpodcasting.com/where To have me speak at your even see www.schoolofpodcasting.com/contactWhere Will I Be?Check Out Dave's Newsletter With Behind the Scenes ContentIn 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 communityPodcasting Observations

On today’s episode, I dig into my thought process as I consider launching a new podcast—and I walk through the essential questions I ask anyone who’s thinking about starting one. If you’ve already got a podcast, these questions might help you rethink your approach.Why am I starting this podcast? I share my background as a teacher and my desire to fight back against spammy guest pitches. I want to educate PR agencies and help fellow podcasters feel less alone in the sea of spam.Who is this podcast for?This show is for two groups: PR agencies (so they can do their job better) and podcasters (so they know they’re not alone and can improve how they handle pitches).How will I measure success? Instead of downloads, I’ll measure success by how many people utilize resources I share, like PodMatch and PodcastGuests.com. I’ll also keep tabs on affiliate signups.What are the hurdles?I reflect on a previous project, Dates from Hell, which struggled because it required audience participation but didn’t yet have an audience. For this new podcast, I’ll need a steady supply of good (and bad) pitches from listeners.Is this a passion project, hobby, or business?This is mostly a passion project and a hobby, driven by my desire to make a difference and maybe have some fun. If I can monetize it, that’s a nice bonus.Why will my audience listen?Listeners will tune in to hear entertainingly bad pitches, learn how to make their own pitches better, and find solidarity in their struggles with guest booking spam. Plus, I’ll offer educational insights that no one else seems to be sharing right now.How long will it take to make an episode?I estimate each episode will take around half an hour to produce, keeping things doable alongside my other commitments. You measure your production time and then choose your schedule.Do I have time and resources to make this happen? I’ve already got hosting, gear, and a plan for the website (PitchAPodcast.com). The biggest challenge will be getting enough listener participation to keep the show going.Key Takeaway I’m considering a crowd-generated podcast to tackle the problem of bad guest pitches.If you’d like to participate, send me your stories of bad (or good!) pitches, info about your podcast and website, and details on your ideal guest.I run through all the big questions to ask before launching, sharing my honest answers and experiences.Links MentionedPitchapodcast.comschoolofpodcasting.compodcastingobservations.comCaptive Media HostingBuzzsprout Media HostingPodMatchPodcastGuests.com.Podpage.com---If you have your own pitch stories or want to get involved, head to PitchAPodcast.com and share your experiences!Mentioned in this episode:Check Out Dave's Newsletter With Behind the Scenes ContentIn 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 communityPodcasting ObservationsYou Have A Message That Needs to Be HeardYou have a message that needs to be shared. Discover the art of podcasting at the School of Podcasting. We teach you to shine a light on your stories, inspiring others one episode at a time. Let your voice be your legacy. Go to www.schoolofpodcasting.com/joinSchool of Podcasting

Hey, it’s Dave Jackson here! In this episode, I’m diving letting you see why patience and persistence matter more than anything else in podcasting (and, honestly, in most creative pursuits). We’ve all been spoiled by the microwave mentality (wanting quick results and instant gratification) but the real success stories are built over years, not weeks.I kick things off with the story of the microwave’s invention as a metaphor for how society craves instant results, then flip the script to talk about why that approach just doesn’t work in podcasting.What Does it Take to Be Known?You’ll hear me break down the journeys of big names like Morgan Freeman, Samuel L. Jackson, Harrison Ford, Bryan Cranston, Lucille Ball, and even musicians like Bonnie Raitt and Andrea Bocelli—all of whom pushed through years (sometimes decades) before their “big break.” Yes, even Adam Sandler and Jerry Seinfeld had plenty of failures, awkward moments, and years of grinding before the world knew their names. I share how their experiences relate directly to podcasting, and why embracing your own style and sticking with what you love can make all the difference.You Need To Be More Than "Good"I also talk about the importance of consistency, cross-promotion, knowing your audience, and making your content “remarkable”—the kind people just have to talk about. I share how Seinfeld didn’t become a household name overnight, and how even my own podcast journey has been about slow, steady growth, not big, sudden leaps.Plus, I get into listener engagement strategies, word-of-mouth tactics, and why you should appreciate the connections and opportunities podcasting brings, from new friendships to dream gigs. And yes, you’ll hear a little power rant about the NFL’s approach to consistency (or lack thereof)!Because of My Podcast Lou MongelloFinally, I wrap up with plenty of listener “because of my podcast” stories, examples of how podcasting opens doors you never imagined, and a reminder that there’s nothing stopping you from growing your show except your own willingness to put in the time and effort.If you want to get inspired and set the right expectations for your own podcast journey—or just need a reminder that you’re not alone in the slow grind—this episode is for you. Thanks for tuning in!Mentioned In This EpisodeLou Mongello and his WDW RadioLou Mongello on SOP 713Because of My Podcast Post on RedditBecause of my podcast showMentioned in this episode:Podcast Hot SeatAttention podcasters! Are you ready to take your show to the next level? Introducing Podcast Hot Seat, the ultimate resource for podcasters who want to elevate their game. Just like a friend who tells you you've got spinach in your teeth, we're here to give you the honest feedback you need to shine. At podcasthotseat.com, we specialize in helping good podcasts become great. Hall of Fame podcaster Dave Jackson will identify your strengths and show you how to leverage them to keep your audience hooked. Don't let small oversights hold you back from podcasting stardom. Visit podcasthotseat.com today and put your show in the hot seat. Your listeners will thank you! Order now and get a free month at the School of Podcasting included in your purchase.Podcast HotseatLive AppearancesI'd love to see you at these events. If you're going to be attending please let me know so we can meetup. For more information go to www.schoolofpodcasting.com/whereWhere Will I Be?Unlock Exclusive Insights: Subscribe to 'Podcasting Observations' Newsletter!Get a look into the world of podcasting like never before with "Podcasting Observations," your go-to source for trends, tips, and transformative insights tailored just for podcasters. You also get "behind the scenes" info from the School of Podcasting Don't miss out on staying ahead of the game—join the 1700+ people who are already reading Podcasting Observations today!Podcasting Observations