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.

1. I’m considering a crowd-generated podcast to tackle the problem of bad guest pitches.
2. 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.
3. I run through all the big questions to ask before launching, sharing my honest answers and experiences.

Links Mentioned

Pitchapodcast.com

schoolofpodcasting.com

podcastingobservations.com

Captive Media Hosting

Buzzsprout Media Hosting

PodMatch

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.

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.

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)!

Finally, 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!

Lou Mongello and his WDW Radio

Lou Mongello on SOP 713

Because of My Podcast Post on Reddit

Because of my podcast show

Mentioned in this episode:

Podcast Hot Seat

Attention 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 Hotseat

Live Appearances

I'd love to see you at these events.

If you want a podcast launch checklist I have one available here. This show is intended for beginners to podcasting. If you already have one, this may be one to skip (or you will hear things you should've thought about but didn't).

Here are the steps I covered.

1. Pick Your Topic
2. Decide if you're podcasting solo or with cohost(s).
3. Pick how you will podcast.
4. Pick where will you podcast?
5. Choose how you will measure your success
6. Pick a name. Naming tools from Podpage and Buzzsprout.
7. Buy the Hardware
8. Buy/Find Software
9. Purchase web hosting
10. Domain Name ( Ilke Namecheap)
11. Graphics
12. Intro Music. (optional)
13. Media Hosting (for your mp3 files)
14. Record Your Content
15. Edit Your Content
16. Upload your media
17. Write Your Show Notes
18. Click Publish
19. Make Sure your Feed is Valid
20. Publish to Apple, Spotify, and all other directories.
21. Tell everyone you know to follow the show on the same day

Here’s a handy list of every website and URL I mentioned in this episode, so you can find the resources and recommendations I talked about:

School of Podcasting:

https://schoolofpodcasting.com

Podpage:

https://podpage.com

(And check out https://trypodpage.com for a quick start!)

Buzzsprout: