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:

Hey, it's Dave! In this episode (which uses chapters FYI), I take you through a year-end wrap-up, sharing stories, rants, insights, and predictions about the world of podcasting. Here are the main points I covered:

1. A Christmas Story with a Lesson for Podcasters

I kicked things off with a humorous Christmas tale about the Cridland Boys Choir, and what happens when you keep loosening your standards just to hit a target—a not-so-subtle lesson for the podcasting world.

2. Pushing Back on Changing Definitions in Podcasting

I strongly disagreed with Steve Goldstein and Jay Nachlis' take that YouTube should be considered podcasts. (also TikTok, and Newsletters).

I emphasized that a podcast, by definition, is audio, video, or PDF delivered via RSS—without that, it's not a podcast.

3. Why "Everything Is a Podcast" is Dangerous

I called out the industry for letting YouTube (and now TikTok) hijack the term "podcast," muddling data and damaging clarity around the medium.

4. The Hazards of Exclusive Distribution Deals

I discussed how exclusive distribution (like those seen with Netflix and Spotify) leads to loss of control and audiences for podcasters.

5. Warning Signs of Big Companies Manipulating Podcasting

Shared concerns about major corporations and what happens when their decisions are driven mainly by shareholder profits and not creators or audiences.

6. AI Content Flooding the Podcast Space

I highlighted the dangers of companies like Inception Point AI mass-producing low-value podcasts, cluttering directories, harming discoverability, and devaluing advertising rates.

7.Common Missteps Hurting Podcast Discovery

I warned about creating duplicate listings in Apple Podcasts and elsewhere, usually when moving hosts, and the importance of understanding how to migrate your show correctly.

8. Show Name Collisions

I noted the confusion caused by multiple shows using the same title (like "Thinking Outside the Box") and urged creators to do their research before naming their show.

9. Monetization Predictions for the Coming Year

I predicted a shift toward premium/patron-supported models as podcasters get frustrated with low ad rates.

10. The Fight Against "AI Slop"

I advocated for collectively pushing back against low-quality, AI-generated spam content in our medium.

11. Upcoming Industry Mergers

I think we'll see podcast-related companies merging or being acquired in the near future.

12. The Reality of YouTube for Podcasters

I expect many podcasters to try YouTube, realize it's not for them, and return to audio-first approaches—while some will succeed by mastering the video platform.

13. A Desire for More Creativity in Podcasting

I called for a resurgence of risk-taking and creative experimentation, rather than everyone following the same tired formats.

Podcasts/Shows Noted:

Pod News Weekly Review

No Agenda Show

Good Hang with Amy Poehler

Things We Learn in a Bar

Work for the Wind by Aliyah Langley

Hey, it's Dave Jackson, and I'm thrilled to bring you episode 1014 of the School of Podcasting. You’ve heard me say it before: "Podcasts lead to relationships, and those relationships lead to opportunities." Today, I brought proof! I sat down with Kim Newlove and Jan Almasey, who shared amazing stories about how starting a podcast opened doors they never anticipated.

Kim Newlove’s Story:

Kim hosts The Pharmacist Voice, where she shares insights on using your voice in the medical field, as well as the Perrysburg Podcast in Ohio. It’s been incredible watching Kim become a mini local celebrity—people in her town now recognize her as "the podcast woman." Whether it’s meeting city council members or audience listeners who discovered the area through her podcast, Kim sees firsthand how her show for Perrysburg builds authentic relationships. She even reached out to her local library to run seminars on "how to listen to podcasts," growing her audience one person at a time. You can check out Kim’s work at the Pharmacist Voice.

Jan Almasey’s Journey:

Jan started the Apex Podcast after seeing how storytelling could bring hope to his local community in Stark County, Ohio. Over three years, the show picked up momentum, leading to speaking engagements at high schools, partnerships with the local chamber of commerce, and even a sponsorship from the city that helped him set up a podcast studio in downtown Canton. Jan’s strategy? Build real relationships—sending thank-you cards or making personal follow-up calls to guests fueled organic growth. Later, those relationships directly translated to business opportunities like agency work, consulting gigs, and even a grant through Jumpstart Inc. to support the local economy. Jan’s story proves that podcasting is about more than downloads—it’s about building a network that keeps on growing. Learn more at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jan-almasy/

My Takeaway:

Reflecting on their experiences—and my own—I can't stress enough how starting a podcast can transform your network. Whether you’re meeting listeners at local events, helping someone discover how to use a podcast app, or forming business partnerships outside your traditional circles, these relationships turn into possibilities you never would’ve imagined. Your podcast can be the starting point for new jobs, collaborations, consulting work, or simply making a bigger impact in your community.

If you’re thinking about starting a podcast or you’re on the verge of giving up—let these stories convince you to stick with it. The relationships you build now might lead to the next big opportunity.

Ready to plan, launch, or grow your show? Visit schoolofpodcasting.com and use coupon code LISTENER to save on your membership (with a 30-day money-back guarantee)!

As always, thanks for listening—and if you’ve got a "Because of My Podcast" story, I’d love to hear it!

Mentioned in this episode:

Live Appearances

I'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/where

Where Will I Be?

Check Out Dave's Newsletter With Behind the Scenes...

Welcome to the show! In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain and sharing the feedback you’ve given me over the past year. From the things you love—like honest opinions and those behind-the-scenes bloopers—to areas where you think I could improve, I’m breaking it all down.

I’ll share how I process both praise and criticism, respond to some thought-provoking and even challenging listener comments, and talk openly about staying authentic on the microphone, no matter what.

If you’ve ever wondered how to handle feedback for your own podcast—or you’re just curious about what really goes on behind the scenes—this episode is for you. Let’s jump in and talk about what it really means to grow through feedback!

• Shared survey results about my audience (how you found the show, preferences on episode length, etc.)
• The value of opinions and why I’m not afraid to voice mine—people appreciate authenticity!
• Blooper reel gets love for keeping the show relatable and real.
• Several listeners said the show’s focus has improved—thanks for noticing!
• Some prefer solo episodes to interviews, and I talk about why I sometimes do interviews anyway.
• The “same old” show approach: people tune in for consistency, just like reruns of Hallmark movies.
• Trust is crucial; I work hard to give value and answers you can’t find elsewhere.
• You can tell when I’m tired or distracted! I agree—your energy transfers to listeners.
• Being award-winning isn’t about ego—my goal is always helping people.
• Repetition helps beginners, but seasoned podcasters would like more advanced content.
• Technical details: I use a Rode Podmic USB microphone into a Rodecaster Duo, recording in Hindenburg.
• Notes on ideas and feedback: people want more “behind-the-scenes” and technical information.
• Reading vs. riffing: I admit sometimes I slip into “reading mode” and work to stay spontaneous.
• Length controversy: some want shorter shows, some longer, but the majority like the current format.
• Hobbyists vs. business podcasters: I explain why my content has sometimes shifted toward podcasters wanting to grow.
• Ads feedback: some want fewer ads, especially repeating the School of Podcasting ad too often.
• Religion and “blue” humor: I discuss my Christian identity, my sense of humor, and respect differing tastes—even when jokes cross lines.
• You can’t please everyone—sometimes what “crosses the line” for one person is just casual for another.
• Suggestions for more advanced content and deeper listener Q&A segments.
• Advanced podcasting wisdom: find out what your audience wants, deliver with value, and keep improving.
• On making money: it’s possible, but requires loving the journey and standing out from the crowd.
• I’m always open to detailed questions—consider sending in your own for future deep dives!

• School of Podcasting
• Podcasting Observations (my email list)
• Podpage
• AppSumo
• Voicemail: schoolofpodcasting.com/voicemail
• Biz Chicks Podcast

In this episode, I circle back to a classic question:

What do you wish you’d known when you started your podcast that you know now?

This is a question I’ve asked in the past (shout-out to episode 768 back in 2021!), and while I received close to 20 answers then, participation was a bit lighter this time around. But don’t worry—the quality makes up for the quantity!

Featured Guests & Their Insights

I’m joined by two long-time contributors—Kim Newlove and Steve Stewart—who share powerfully honest responses about their podcasting journeys.

Kim Newlove:

Kim shares 12 things she wishes she’d known when starting her podcasts, The Pharmacist’s Voice and the Perrysburg Podcast. She talks about everything from being able to change your podcast’s “why” as its mission evolves, to discovering the right gear (hello, Shure SM7B!), figuring out realistic production schedules, mastering research and writing demands, making effective use of Canva for episode artwork, choosing media hosts wisely, the importance of newsletters, the value of trailers, and more. She emphasizes learning as you go and assures new podcasters that it’s totally okay to fill in gaps as you build your parachute on the way down!

Steve Stewart:

Steve reflects on how much he wishes he’d known how to edit for content when he first began his show in 2010. His early episodes would benefit from a bit more polish, and he shares how improving his editing skills made a huge difference not just for his own podcast, but eventually for others through his work at the Podcast Editors Academy. Steve also offers an excellent resource for anyone looking for a podcast editor.

My Takeaways & Thoughts:

I share my own lessons learned—including the importance of setting aside regular time for learning new skills, asking for direct feedback from listeners, and being willing to adapt and evolve your show as needed. I also discuss the value of constructive criticism and how it helps me grow as a podcaster.

Resources & Mentions:

• Kim’s Podcasts: The Pharmacist’s Voice and Perrysburg Podcast
• Steve’s Podcast Editing Resource: Find an Editor
• School of Podcasting: schoolofpodcasting.com (use coupon code “listenr” for a discount!)
• Media Host Recommendations: Captivate, Buzzsprout, Libsyn (coupon sopfree), Transistor, Blubrry, and now