• Hiring Help for Your Podcast: Worth It or Just Burning Cash?
    Sep 1 2025

    Outsourcing for your podcast is a bit like dating—you have to kiss a lot of frogs before you find your prince (or princess). This episode gets into the nitty-gritty of hiring help for your podcast, featuring stories from our listeners who’ve been there, done that, and got the t-shirt (or the horror story).

    Kim Newlove shares her success with hiring a coach and how that investment paid off in spades. On the flip side, York's experience is a cautionary tale about the perils of hiring without doing proper research. It’s a mixed bag of outcomes, and we’re here for all of it. We also explore the broader theme of investing in your podcast and the balance between saving money and getting quality help. After all, sometimes you gotta spend a little to save a lot—like time, sanity, and the integrity of your podcast. Tune in for laughs, lessons learned, and a whole lot of real talk on the do’s and don’ts of podcast hiring.

    Need Help Finding an Editor?

    If you need help finding an editor use THIS LINK which will go to Steve Stewart who co-runs the Podcast Editor Academy and he will send your information to people in that group.

    Takeaways:

    • Hiring help for your podcast can feel like tossing cash into a bonfire, trust me on that.
    • Not every graphic designer is a wizard; sometimes they just wave a magic wand and call it a day.
    • If you think a cheap website designer will give you a Gucci site, you’re dreaming, my friend.
    • Outsourcing editing can be a lifesaver, especially if your vacation plans involve avoiding the editing cave.
    • Remember, folks, you either pay in time or in money, so choose wisely, even if it hurts.
    • Always check the credentials of the person you hire for your podcast; a fancy title doesn’t mean they won’t mess everything up.

    Links referenced in this episode:

    • schoolofpodcasting.com
    • podcastbranding.co
    • thepharmacistsvoice.com
    • perrysburgpodcast.com
    • welcometoearthstories.com
    • askralph.com
    • mediavoiceovers.com
    • sounddogs.com
    • tunereel.com
    • podpage.com
    • schoolofpodcasting.com
    • podcasthotseat.com
    • empoweredpodcasting.com
    • marriedandloveit.com

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Question of the Month

    This month's question comes from Todd the Gator of the Gaurdian Downcast (guardiandowncast.com). He wants to know: How long did it take...

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    40 mins
  • Stop Wasting Your Listeners' Time - and other lessons from Podcast Movement
    Aug 25 2025

    Coming back from Podcast Movement, I've got a story that really drives home the point that nothing beats face-to-face networking. I mean, sure, we can all hop on Zoom and pretend we're connecting, but when you're actually sharing a meal with someone or just hanging out, that's where the magic happens. It's like the difference between texting your buddy and grabbing a beer – one is okay, but the other is where real connections are made. And let's be honest, who doesn't want to make meaningful connections while stuffing their face with overpriced convention center food?

    Takeaways:
    • Networking in person is way better than any online stuff, seriously, just trust me.
    • Most podcasters are totally wasting their listeners' time with a simple fix in editing.
    • Chapters are a cool tool to help listeners skip to what they actually want to hear.
    • If you want your podcast to grow, you might need to jump into the Podcast Hot Seat.
    • Cutting out unnecessary parts of interviews can save time and keep listeners happy, who knew?
    • Feeling overwhelmed when starting a podcast is totally normal, like, welcome to the club.

    Links referenced in this episode:
    • schoolofpodcasting.com
    • podcasthotseat.com
    • tuulie.com
    • Social Media News Live with Jeff Sieh
    • Walt Disney World Radio with Lou Mongello

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Live Appearances - I'd Love To Meet You!

    AUGUST 18-21, 2025 Podcast Movement, Dallas TX. (So Many Ways To Monetize Which One is Best For You? Talk). August 24-26, 2025 CEX, Cleveland, Oh. The Event for Content Entrepreneurs September 26-28 2005 Empowered Podcasting Conference, Uptown Charlotte, NC

    Where Will I Be?

    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"

    School of Podcasting

    Question of the Month August 2025

    Mark form Podcastbranding.co wants to know if you've ever hired someone to help you with your podcast? If so, for what purpose and were you satisfied with the outcome? Go to www.schoolofpodcasting.com and answer the question by August 22nd 2025. When you answer the question, tell us a little bit about your show (elevator pitch) and where we can find it (your website so I can link to it)

    Question of the Month

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    29 mins
  • Dead Air, Depression, and Dispatch Dave: Inside Sirius Satellite Radio
    Aug 18 2025

    I've known Dave Hooper (host of Build a Big Podcast and Author of Big Podcast) since he put on the radio for the first time on Music Business Radio. When I heard that Dave had scored a job at Sirius I wanted the inside scoop on what it's like to work there, and what the heck is a "Producer."

    Dave explains that he got the job while being in "a funk" and he used that situation to introduce more "real" topics to channel 146 at 7 AM and Road Dog Trucking.

    I also share one sentence that jumped out at me from the Taylor Swift appearance on the new heights show.

    Takeaways:
    • Ever wondered what it’s like at Sirius Satellite Radio? Well, buckle up, buddy, because David Hooper is here to spill the tea on some wild stories, including a hilarious instance of dead air that’ll make you cringe. Seriously, it’s gold.
    • So, David’s job is basically a mix of five different roles. I mean, booking guests, prepping shows, running the board, cutting promos—what's next, making coffee? It’s a circus behind the scenes, folks!
    • We all know live radio can be a hot mess, right? David shares how he’s had to dust off some old skills and navigate the chaos of live broadcasting. Spoiler: mistakes happen, and dead air is just part of the fun!
    • Turns out, podcasting and satellite radio aren’t that different after all. Both have their own unique challenges, but the real magic lies in connecting with the audience and building that sweet community vibe.
    • David’s new gig at Sirius has taught him some serious life skills, like staying calm and collected under pressure. Who knew being a radio producer would be like a masterclass in Zen?
    • At the end of the day, it's all about community and connection. David’s show is like a virtual truck stop, bringing people together to chat about everything from addiction to marriage on the road. Seriously, where else can you get that kind of therapy?

    Links Mentioned

    Build a Big Podcast

    Big Podcast Book

    Channel 146

    School of Podcasting

    Power of Podcasting

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Help When You Don't Know Where To Start

    I get it. I talk to people looking to launch or grow their podcast. "“There’s too much gear/software — I don’t know what I need.” Microphones, mixers, hosting platforms, editing software — it’s easy to get lost. Analysis paralysis kicks in fast. I help podcasters. I've been doing it 20 years. Let me help. Dave Jackson schoolofpodcasting.com/join

    School of Podcasting

    Live Appearances - I'd Love To Meet You!

    AUGUST 18-21, 2025 Podcast Movement, Dallas TX. (So Many Ways To Monetize Which One is Best For You? Talk). August 24-26, 2025 CEX, Cleveland, Oh. The Event for Content Entrepreneurs September 26-28 2005 Empowered Podcasting Conference, Uptown Charlotte, NC

    Where Will I Be?

    Question of the Month August 2025

    Mark form Podcastbranding.co wants to know if you've ever hired someone to help you with your podcast? If so, for what purpose and were you...

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    37 mins
  • Why Your Media Kit is Probably Trash: Lessons from Justin Moore
    Aug 11 2025

    Justin Moore is here to tell us how to snag sponsors like a pro. We chat about his book, Sponsor Magnet. Seriously, if you’re trying to get sponsors for your podcast, this is the book you need—like, yesterday.

    He dives into the absurdities of podcast monetization and how it’s not just about your download numbers but about your influence. Justin shares some gold nuggets on pitching strategies and why sending out a basic media kit is basically waving a white flag in the sponsorship battle. So, grab a snack, sit back, and let’s unravel the crazy world of podcast sponsorships together!

    This show is brought to you buy the School of Podcasting

    Takeaways:

    • In the world of podcasting, having a solid media kit is apparently as useful as a chocolate teapot, so maybe just don’t bother with it.
    • Justin Moore's book 'Sponsor Magnet' is the secret sauce for podcasters looking to snag sponsors without losing their minds.
    • Podcasters are taught to monetize their audience, not just their podcast, which is a revelation that could make us all rich - or at least less broke.
    • When pitching to sponsors, forget the cookie-cutter approach; make your pitch relevant to their current campaigns and watch the magic happen!
    • Video content has a distinct edge over audio when it comes to attracting sponsorships, because brands love to reuse content like it’s a favorite pair of jeans.
    • If you get feedback from your audience about a sponsored product, don’t just sweep it under the rug; share it with the brand to improve future campaigns.
    • Learn the A.R.C.H. and R.O.P.E. strategies to get more money coming your way.

    Links referenced in this episode:

    • schoolofpodcasting.com
    • sponsormagnet.com
    • creatorwizard.com
    • Sponsor Games
    • Justin's Newsletter with Sponsors looking to partner
    • Sponsor Magnet - the Podcast
    • Justin's YouTube Channel
    • Sponsor Magnet Audio Book
    • Sponsor Magnet on Amazon

    This is episode 996 of the School of Podcasting

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Quit Thinking About It and START THAT PODCAST

    If you have ever turned down the radio to hear your phone in the car, you know how to mix audio. If you have ever attached a photo to an email, you know how to upload an mp3 to a media host. Deleting text in Word is the same as delete audio in audacity. Yes, there is a learning curve but it's not as scary as you think. I'll be there the whole way, and you can join worry free with a 30 day money-back guarantee. Go to schoolofpodcasting.com/join

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    43 mins
  • No More 'Um's: Your Guide to Speaking Like a Pro!
    Aug 4 2025

    Filler words. We all know them, we all use them, and let’s be real, they’re annoying. You might think it’s just you fumbling through a sentence with a bunch of ‘uhs’ and ‘ums’, but guess what? We’re all in the same boat, paddling away from clarity and straight into the sea of confusion.

    In this episode, I dig into the strategies to kick those pesky crutch words to the curb. We chat about how you can sound smarter (yes, you heard that right) by practicing your communication skills and being more aware of what’s coming out of your mouth. With tips ranging from joining a Toastmasters club to simply taking a pause instead of filling the space with ‘you knows,’ we’re here to help you become the smooth-talking superstar you were meant to be. So let’s ditch the filler words together and find out how to express ourselves without sounding like we’re stuck in a loop of hesitation!

    What Stays and What Goes?

    For me, any time I can make myself or a guest sound smarter I will do it. For me, I go for the low hanging fruit. This is when um someone just has um a standalone um all by itself. You can easily highlight it and press delete. The ums I leave alone are those that run into another word.

    Tool like Descript and Riverside have built in tools to remover filler words. Be careful with these as they can be a bit aggressive. A good edit is one that doesn't sound like an edit was made. This is why I don't obsess over every single filler words because we all occasionally say "um." It becomes an issue when people lose sight of what you're saying because they are distracted by how you are saying it.

    Takeaways:

    • Filler words are the annoying little gremlins of speech we all battle with, and they're everywhere.
    • Practicing with Toastmasters is like getting a gym membership for your speaking skills, minus the sweat.
    • Confidence is key; the more prepared you are, the less you sound like a crutch-word factory.
    • Taking pauses instead of using filler words is like giving your brain time to catch up with your mouth, which is crucial.
    • Editing your recordings helps you become painfully aware of those pesky fillers, so you can kick them to the curb.
    • Using outlines and scripts can save you from sounding like you're making it up as you go, and trust me, that's a lifesaver!

    Links referenced in this episode:

    • schoolofpodcasting.com
    • podcasteditoracademy.com
    • thepharmacistvoice.com
    • perrysburgpodcast.com
    • welcometoearthstories.com
    • askralph.com
    • Descript
    • Riverside
    • Toastmasters

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Podcasting In Six Weeks - Register Today!

    Ever wanted to start your own podcast but didn't know where to begin? Imagine creating and launching your podcast in just six weeks! Join our...

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    42 mins
  • 15 Lessons Podcasters Can learn From Ozzy Osbourne
    Jul 28 2025

    Ozzy Osbourne's recent passing has got me feeling all sorts of ways. I mean, who didn’t grow up jamming to ‘Crazy Train’ or wishing we could be half as cool as him? This isn’t just about mourning a rock legend; it’s about learning from the antics of a guy who built an empire on being unapologetically himself. So today, I’m diving deep into 15 lessons that podcasters can snag from Ozzy’s playbook. From being true to yourself (and not giving a hoot about the haters) to surrounding yourself with good people (looking at you, Sharon), I’m spilling the tea on how to keep your podcast alive and vibrant. Plus, I’ll share some wild stories about Ozzy’s crazy life that’ll make you laugh and cringe at the same time. Buckle up, because we’re about to rock this podcast world with some serious, Ozzy-inspired vibes!

    Mentioned In This Episode

    WDW Radio Podcast

    Lou Monegello's Tour

    Battery Organizer (aff)

    School of Podcasting

    Takeaways:

    • Ozzy Osbourne may have died, but his legacy of being unapologetically himself lives on forever.
    • Lessons from Ozzy include being true to yourself and ignoring the critics who just don't get it.
    • Surrounding yourself with good people is key; even Ozzy had Sharon in his corner.
    • Don't sweat perfection when creating content; just get out there and do it!

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Question of the Month August 2025

    Mark form Podcastbranding.co wants to know if you've ever hired someone to help you with your podcast? If so, for what purpose and were you satisfied with the outcome? Go to www.schoolofpodcasting.com and answer the question by August 22nd 2025. When you answer the question, tell us a little bit about your show (elevator pitch) and where we can find it (your website so I can link to it)

    Question of the Month

    Live Appearances - I'd Love To Meet You!

    AUGUST 18-21, 2025 Podcast Movement, Dallas TX. (So Many Ways To Monetize Which One is Best For You? Talk). August 24-26, 2025 CEX, Cleveland, Oh. The Event for Content Entrepreneurs September 26-28 2005 Empowered Podcasting Conference, Uptown Charlotte, NC

    Where Will I Be?

    Quit Thinking About It and START THAT PODCAST

    If you have ever turned down the radio to hear your phone in the car, you know how to mix audio. If you have ever attached a photo to an email, you know how to upload an mp3 to a media host. Deleting text in Word is the same as delete audio in audacity. Yes, there is a learning curve but it's not as scary as you think. I'll be there the whole way, and you can join worry free with a 30 day money-back guarantee. Go to schoolofpodcasting.com/join

    School of Podcasting

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    37 mins
  • What's In It For The Audience? With Traci DeForge
    Jul 21 2025

    Traci DeForge is here to her knowledge about podcasting for your business without feeling like a total salesy weirdo. She’s busting the myth that you need 10,000 downloads to make a buck—seriously, you can start monetizing with just 1,500 listeners. We talk about how to weave your podcast into your business strategy without sounding like a used car salesman. If you’ve ever felt awkward about asking for sales, Traci’s got the lowdown on how to do it without the cringe. So, grab your earbuds and get ready to learn how to turn your podcast into a money-making machine while keeping it real and relatable!

    Takeaways:

    • Most podcasters wrongly believe they need to drop $10k to start monetizing.
    • Traci DeForge busted the myth that you need 10,000 listeners; 1,500 can do it too!
    • Podcasting is all about strategy; it’s not just talking into a mic, folks!
    • You've got to view your podcast as part of your whole business model, not just a side gig.
    • Feeling salesy? Get over it! Your mindset can really change how you sell.
    • If you don't ask for what you're worth, you might be leaving money on the table!

    Links referenced in this episode:

    • schoolofpodcasting.com
    • produceyourpodcast.com
    • podpage.com
    • Secrets of Closing the Sale - Zig Ziglar (Audible)

    Traci DeForge

    Helping business owners & brands turn their expertise into strategic podcasts that build authority, attract qualified leads & drive revenue. Full-service, 360° podcast solutions from strategy to sponsorship.

    As Founder & CEO of Produce Your Podcast, I help business owners, brands, and thought leaders transform their expertise into strategic media platforms that build authority, attract qualified leads, and generate revenue. From early-stage startups to my work with Fortune 500 companies, including Google, Hilton, Weight Watchers International, Microsoft, and British Airways, I am internationally recognized for identifying successful business development opportunities for innovative growth.

    Recognized as a Top 10 Podcasting Services Provider by Media & Entertainment Business Review (2024), we’ve launched and managed over 160 B2B and B2C podcasts, supporting startups and global brands across the technology, legal, finance, and healthcare sectors.

    With 30+ years of experience in award-winning media production, broadcast radio, and business development, I developed a full-service podcasting model delivering broadcast-quality production, strategic brand positioning, and measurable business outcomes. From concept to launch, audience growth to monetization, our proprietary workflow equips clients with a turnkey system for success, aligned with their marketing, sales, and content creation goals. READ MORE

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Question of the Month August 2025

    Mark form Podcastbranding.co wants to know if you've ever hired someone to help you with your podcast? If so, for what purpose and were you satisfied with the outcome? Go to www.schoolofpodcasting.com and answer the question by August 22nd 2025. When you answer the question, tell us a little bit about your show (elevator pitch) and where we can find it (your website so I can link to it)

    Question of the

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    37 mins
  • Are Big Companies Poisoning Podcasting?
    Jul 14 2025
    Are Spotify and YouTube poisoning podcasting?

    I keep hearing how "What used to work in the past - doesn't work anymore? Well I disagree. Making great content that resonates with your audience has been around since the early days of radio, and if it make them FEEL something, you've got something that is golden.

    Giant companies always put profit over people, and with the latest AI band called the Velvet Sundown which has six figure streams. Why are AI Bands better than real musicians?

    • They don't get sick
    • They don't complain about not getting paid
    • They can provide more music, more frequently

    So if the world starts to accept AI artists, if you're Spotify, why wouldn't you introduce an AI podcaster to deliver an evergreen topic? Spotify could promote it to make it popular and then run advertising against it and not have to worry about splitting the revenue with a podcaster.

    Both YouTube and Spotify entice you in with free services, and then once you grow dependent on them, they can do whatever they want and you don't have a lot of control. If you say the wrong thing, you're kicked off the platform. Rosanne Barr (who is Jewish) for saying something deemed hate speech about Jewish people while she is herself Jewish. It was Sarcasm. Rosanne started her career as a comedian.

    Big Companies Often Put Profit Over Doing the Right Thing

    Purdue Pharma has been accused of mislabeling opioids that lead to lots of overdoses. Johnson and Johnson faced lawsuits about cancer and talcum power. Wells Fargo was fined millions for having employees open millions of account without the customer consent. I could go on and assemble a very long list. Just keep your eyes open, and watch as these companies that have come into podcasting with free offerings to interrupt the space, take control and bend it to suit their needs (not those of the host or the listener).

    Sponsor Magnet Book Review

    The Ultimate Book on Sponsorships/Partnerships, "Sponsor Magnet: How to Attract, Price, & Execute Your Dream Brand Partnerships" by Justin Moore. It is THE book for those looking to create partnerships with brand (not just a one time payment).

    The book shows you how to find out who to talk to, what to say, how to say it, and to overdeliver to they keep sponsoring the show. The audio book has bonus content that was very cool as you hear people talking about putting the strategies into practice. You can get it on Audible if you're more of a listener than reader.

    Takeaways:
    • If you're hunting for sponsors, check out the book 'Sponsor Magnet' - it's a game changer.
    • Podcasts don't need to follow trends; old-school content is still valuable and effective.
    • Big corporations could ruin podcasting, so let's just not invite them to the party.
    • YouTube is saying things that make no sense. A CD is not a cassette.
    • Spotify seems to have issue always delivering all the facts about their activities.
    • Hashtags no longer carry any clout on instagram per Brock Johnson
    • A podcast is audio, video or pdf delivered via RSS
    • Podcasting existed before people put in advertisements, and it will exist if advertising goes away. Advertising is ONE way to monetize.

    Links referenced in this episode:
    • schoolofpodcasting.com
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    48 mins