School of Podcasting - Podcast Tips to Plan, Launch, Grow Your Podcast
Dave Jackson
Recent Episodes
So, today I'm diving into the mess that can be podcast burnout. You know, that moment when your favorite hobby morphs into a job you dread? Yeah, we’ve all been there. We're chatting about big names like Marc Maron and others who decided to call it quits and how that’s not just okay, but totally legit.
Spoiler alert: sometimes stepping back is the best move you can make. I’ll sprinkle in some sarcasm and laughs as we explore the absurdity of it all—because let’s face it, if we can’t laugh at our struggles, what’s the point, right?
If you've been thinking about starting a podcast but feel it's too crowded, realize all those podcasters who started back in 2005 might be being pulled in new directions that have them thinking about podcast retirement.
Takeaways:
- Creative projects can sometimes feel like an endless cycle of stress and burnout.
- It's totally okay to step back from podcasting if it stops being fun for you.
- Many successful podcasters have experienced burnout, and it's a common issue in the industry.
- Managing expectations is crucial; don't expect overnight success when building an audience.
- Life changes, like welcoming a new baby, can drastically affect your podcasting ability and energy.
- Always remember: adding responsibilities means subtracting your fun, so be careful what you take on.
Mentioned In This Show
Marc Maron Announces He's Ending the WTF Show
Rob Walch Talks Marc Maron on the Feed
Erik K Johnson End Podcast Talent Coach
YouTuber Tom Scott Says Goodbye 6.5M Subscribers
YouTuber The Game Theorist Says Goodbye 19.6M Subscribers
YouTuber Caylus says goodbye to 18.7M Subscribers
What Makes This Show Ggreat? - Marc Maron Edition sop705
My Spouse Has Dementia Show with Zita Christian
Clockify Free Time Tracker
More insights at schoolofpodcasting.com/989
Mentioned in this episode:
Starting a podcast can be daunting. Fear of failure, uncertainty about where to begin, and doubts about your abilities can hold you back. But what if you had a guide? The School of Podcasting is here to help you confidently launch, grow, and monetize your podcast. With over 20 years of experience and tons of successful podcasts launched, I'll walk you through every step. From planning to promotion, you're never alone." Learn at your own pace with video courses, join a supportive community, and get unlimited coaching. Say goodbye to fear and hello to success." Start your podcasting journey today with the School of Podcasting. Join now and take the first step towards turning your passion into a reality. Visit SchoolOfPodcasting.com to get started. No fear, just success.
Question of the Month Jne 2025
We hear how great Spotify is, but is it? Let's find out. Go into your media host and see what percentage of your total downloads came from Spotify. We don't need the number of downloads, just the percentage. I need your answer by 6/27/25. Don't forget to tell us a little bit about your show, and your website address.
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
Ever wonder why some podcasts spread like wildfire while others wither on the vine? Well, it turns out that a whopping 60 to 80% of podcasts are discovered through good old-fashioned word of mouth.
Yeah, that means if your podcast isn’t getting shared, there’s a reason. So, what’s the secret sauce that makes people hit that share button? In this episode, I research the world of shareable content — you know, the kind that makes your friends feel like they need to hear it.
Spoiler alert: it’s all about that emotional connection and delivering value. Plus, I’ll throw in some advice on being a better podcaster and maybe even a better dad. We also take a listen to the Zoom Podtrak P2
Mentioned In This Show
Microphones Compatible with the Zoom Podtrak P2
Lean Learning: How to Achieve More by Learning Less from Pat Flynn (audible)
Voice of Greece Podcast
Castahead.net - Podcast Producing and More
Libsyn Ads Removes Limits (please note this IS programatic ads check the CPM)
Ask the Podcast Coach (free podcast consulting)
What Makes People Share Question of the Month 2021
Takeaways:
- Around 60 to 80% of podcasts are found through sharing, so that's a big deal.
- Good content isn't just about being decent; it has to be downright irresistible to share.
- We often share things based on the feels—if it hits us in the feels, we share it.
- To get people to share, your content should be emotionally engaging, practical, and visually appealing.
Mentioned in this episode:
Do You Need a Podcast Coach
Bill Gates, Steve Jobs, Oprah Winfrey, and many others have had COACHES to help them with an outside view to help them shape their content. I will start my 20th year in podcasting and would love to help you follow the best practices of podcasting, and avoid the common mistakes and avoid those steps that lead to burnout.
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
Today we start with the news of Marc Maron retiring his podcast, and a possible shake up at the New Media Show (two shows with 16+ years). So who will fill their space you?
Bri Leever is a community building strategist at Ember Consulting and host of the show "Dear Bri." I saw her present at a webinar put on by Hearbeat (my favorite community tool) and immediately joined her community (which lead to me asking her on the show).
Full show notes at schoolodposcasting.com/987
Mentioned in the Show:
Bri's Community of Community Builders
School of Podcasting Community
Takeaways:
- Marc Maron is hanging up his podcasting hat after 16 years, and that's a big deal.
- Having both free and paid communities can actually mess up your growth, who knew?
- If you want a thriving community, you gotta focus on what people actually want, duh!
- Starting a podcast with a small team is totally doable; you don't need a squad of 20.
- Don't be surprised if your free community outshines your paid one; it happens more than you'd think.
- People love talking about themselves, so just ask them questions and you'll be golden.
Mentioned in this episode:
You Have A Message That Needs to Be Heard
You 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/join
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
Question of the Month Jne 2025
We hear how great Spotify is, but is it? Let's find out. Go into your media host and see what percentage of your total downloads came from Spotify. We don't need the number of downloads, just the percentage. I need your answer by 6/27/25. Don't forget to tell us a little bit about your show, and your website address.
Adding YouTube to your podcasting game? Well, grab a seat because Thomas Umstadt Jr. is here to share what works and what doesn't. We’re talking about the nitty-gritty of taking your audio-only podcast and slapping it onto the video platform that everyone and their grandma seems to be on.
Thomas recounts his journey from simple audiograms to full-blown video episodes, sharing the highs and lows of his transition. Spoiler alert: it turns out that just tossing your podcast audio onto YouTube won’t cut it. You need to think about titles and thumbnails—yes, those flashy little images that scream ‘click me!’ As he explains, those are your first impressions; if they’re not catchy, your content might as well be invisible.
He dives into the technicalities too, discussing everything from gear and lighting to the importance of having a good backdrop (hello, bookshelves!). Plus, he shares some gold nuggets about audience demographics that might just make you rethink how you approach your content. So whether you’re on the fence about YouTube or just curious about what the fuss is all about, this episode is packed with insights that might just give your podcast the boost it needs.
Mentioned In This Episode
Novel Marketing.com (Thomas's website and podcast)
Tube Buddy (YouTube tool that coaches you)
VidIQ (another tool to help you with YouTube)
Pikzel YouTube Thumbnail Maker
1 of 10 YouTube Thumbnail Maker
Captivate and Buzzsprout Media Hosts with Dynamic Content Capabilities
School of Podcasting - Plan, launch, and grow your podcast
Takeaways:
- Adding YouTube to your podcast can significantly boost audience engagement and visibility.
- Titles and thumbnails are crucial for YouTube success, unlike in traditional podcasting.
- The first 30 seconds of your video need to grab attention or viewers will bounce.
- Using your phone as a camera can yield better results than expensive gear for video.
- A strong opening is key for YouTube; don't dilly-dally with long intros like in podcasts.
- Experimenting with different content formats can lead to surprising audience growth on YouTube.
Did you get value from this show? You can give some of the value back and say thanks.
Mentioned in this episode:
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
Question of the Month Jne 2025
We hear how great Spotify is, but is it? Let's find out. Go into your media host and see what percentage of your total downloads came from Spotify. We don't need the number of downloads, just the percentage. I need your answer by 6/27/25. Don't forget to tell us a little bit about your show, and your website address.
Don't Let Your Poor Upbringing Stop Your From Starting Your Podcast
If 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 Jackson
Today, we are talking about keeping your audience listening after they press play. This starts with an opening hook. To have hooks that grab your audience and make them want to hear your episode, there are some common characteristics:
Relevance: A good hook connects directly to the theme or topic of your episode. It should hint at what’s to come without giving everything away.
Emotional Impact: Evoking curiosity, excitement, or even controversy can create an emotional connection with your audience, prompting them to stay tuned.
Clarity and Brevity: Your hook should be clear and to the point. Complexity can confuse listeners and cause them to lose interest.
Promises Value: Whether it’s information, entertainment, or inspiration, a strong hook promises something valuable to the listener.
All of this relies on you knowing who your target audience is. A hook that works on a business podcast may not work on your gaming show.
Ever wondered why some podcasts just suck you in while others make you want to run for the hills? Well, let’s break it down, shall we? The opening hook of your podcast can make or break your listener retention. You could have the most riveting content planned, but if your intro is as exciting as watching paint dry, good luck keeping anyone around.
We’re talking about how a killer hook can capture attention faster than a cat meme on social media. Dive into the psychology of why people stick around and learn five solid strategies to craft hooks that actually work. Spoiler alert: it’s not just about being clever. It’s about being relevant, emotional, and concise. So, grab your headphones, and let’s unravel the magical art of the podcast hook that’ll have your audience begging for more!
Takeaways:
- A killer hook can make or break your podcast's first impression, so choose wisely!
- To keep listeners glued to your podcast, start with something that sparks curiosity and relevance.
- Your opening should promise value; otherwise, listeners might just hit the dreaded 'stop' button.
- Whether it's a shocking fact or a relatable story, your hook needs to resonate with your audience.
5 Example Hook Types:
- Engaging Questions: Drawing listeners in by voicing their struggles or curiosities
- Personal Anecdotes: Using brief, vulnerable stories that are directly relevant
- Shocking Facts: Leveraging surprising statistics or statements (without clickbait)
- Intriguing Scenarios: Creating hypothetical situations that spark imagination
- Relatable Problems: Addressing common issues faced by the audience
Mentioned in This Episode
Podcast Hook Example Cheat Sheet
Audience Survey: schoolofpodcasting.com/survey25
Mentioned in this episode:
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"