Episode 541 - Why Your Podcast Matters - Valuable Insights for Hosts and Followers

Podcasting delivers high value for both the host and the audience, serving different but equally powerful purposes. For hosts, podcasting builds authority, expands networks, and creates business or personal growth opportunities; for listeners, it offers education, inspiration, and a unique sense of community with direct access to authentic voices and stories.Value of Your Podcast for the Host

• Podcasting helps establish the host’s expertise and personal or brand authority within a niche.​

• Hosting a podcast can generate new relationships and networking opportunities, often leading to collaborations and business growth.​

• Monetization options—such as ads, sponsorships, or services—make podcasting a viable business avenue.​

• Consistent podcasting grows an engaged community, deepens trust, and keeps the host top-of-mind for opportunities like speaking engagements or consulting.

Value of Your Podcast for the Listener

• Listeners benefit from actionable, long-form content that educates, entertains, and resonates with their personal experiences and needs.​

• Podcasts allow on-demand access to valuable insights and stories while multitasking—adding value to “screenless” moments.​

• Listeners develop a strong connection to the host’s authentic voice, building trust and loyalty around the show’s community and message.

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Episode 540 - Shower. Deodorant. Edit. The Routine Every Podcaster Needs

Podcast Show Notes: The How to Podcast Series – Why Editing Matters

In this episode of The How to Podcast Series, host Dave dives deep into one of the most debated topics among podcasters: editing. Recorded in November for a January release, Dave sets the tone early with his signature warmth and candid humor, describing the joy of connecting with listeners and the satisfaction that comes from crafting a quality audio experience.

The heart of the episode is a passionate defense of editing—a practice some in the podcasting world claim is unnecessary. Dave pushes back hard against that notion, humorously likening editing to showering or putting on deodorant before stepping out into the world. Just as books have editors and movies go through post-production, he argues, podcasts deserve the same level of care and attention. Editing isn’t vanity; it’s respect for your audience.

Throughout the episode, Dave shares tangible, relatable insights on how editing shapes a better listener experience. From improving clarity and pacing to removing distractions and balancing audio, he emphasizes that every edit is a gift to the audience. In his view, it’s about creating a seamless flow that rewards listeners for pressing play.

Dave breaks down five key functions of good editing:

• Enhancing clarity by removing filler and irrelevant chatter

• Creating a natural flow with structured starts, breaks, and transitions

• Cutting non-value content that distracts from the main message

• Balancing audio between host and guest for a consistent listening experience

• Strengthening storytelling so episodes feel purposeful and engaging

He also addresses the importance of keeping the listener’s needs front and center—a principle he credits to his colleague Sharon and her reminder to always think, “What’s in it for the audience?”

Editing, Dave concludes, isn’t about perfection. It’s about delivering on your promise to your listeners with honesty and craftsmanship. Even small improvements in pacing or audio levels can transform an average show into one that stands out in a crowded feed.

Key Takeaway: Editing is an act of service to your audience. It’s how you refine your message, respect their time, and elevate your show from casual conversation to engaging storytelling.

To learn more about podcasting tips, tools, and community meetups, visit HowToPodcast.ca.

Episode 539 - Why Your Podcast Should Come Before Your Social Media Strategy

Embracing a “podcast first” approach means prioritizing your podcast’s content, community, and discoverability directly within podcasting channels rather than relying on social media as your primary promotional vehicle. Many industry veterans and podcasters have observed that the most effective growth comes from focusing on producing high-value episodes consistently, engaging listeners where they already listen, and building credibility through genuine podcasting activity.Podcast First vs. Social Media FirstPodcast First Philosophy

• Focuses on Regular Content: Delivering episodes on a consistent schedule builds trust and listener expectations—your audience knows when to come back, and reliable publishing grows organic reach and discoverability over time.​

• Listener Word-of-Mouth: Your most loyal fans become your promoters. When you offer value, your audience becomes likelier to share and recommend your show, which often outpaces what social media can achieve for many podcasts.​

• Embedded Community: Engaging in podcasting communities (via listening apps, collaborations, guesting on other shows) often produces direct subscriber growth compared to unpredictable reach on platforms like Instagram or Twitter.​

• Shareability of Content: High-quality, topical episodes naturally become shareable—listeners send episodes to friends or cite your show, creating a virtuous cycle of organic growth.

Social Media First Philosophy

• Demands Constant Content: Social posting means regular snacks of content are needed, which can drain creative energy from making the podcasts themselves.​

• Unpredictable Algorithms: Social media virality is unreliable, and engagement doesn’t always translate to new podcast subscribers.​

• Shifting Audiences: Your followers on social may not be avid podcast listeners—getting them to cross over can be difficult.

Why “Podcast First” Works

• Trust and Credibility: Showing up consistently earns trust. Your podcast catalog acts as proof of commitment, which is far more convincing than a few viral social posts.​

• Podcast-Adjacent Growth: Featuring guests, collaborating with similar podcasts, and appearing on other shows leads to quality listeners who already enjoy podcasts—rather than chasing generic social traffic.​

• Content Longevity: Podcasts persist and accrue downloads for months and years, whereas social content fades quickly.​

• Listener Referral Power: Listener introductions, word-of-mouth, and features in podcast apps regularly outperform social media impressions for discoverability.

Best Practices for The Podcast First Approach

• Prioritize consistent, quality podcast episode releases.

• Engage with listeners via podcast app reviews, email newsletters, and direct feedback.

• Network by collaborating and guesting on other podcasts.

• Encourage your existing audience to share episodes and spread the word.

• Use social media as a supplementary channel, not your main strategy.

Conclusion

For many podcasters, particularly those serving niche or dedicated communities, a podcast first approach outperforms social-first tactics. Producing reliably great episodes and connecting directly within the podcast ecosystem builds sustainable, organic growth that’s hard for social channels to replicate.

If you’re seeing stronger results “in the app” and through podcast collaborations, you’re not alone—this is an increasingly validated path for podcasters aiming for genuine, lasting growth.

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Episode 538 - Audiobooks, Guesting Tech Needs and Authors with CO-HOST - Ben Schenkman

In this episode, host Dave welcomes Ben Schenkman—an author, audiobook narrator, and all-around creative force. Ben pulls back the curtain on the craft of audiobook narration and offers practical advice for authors who want to bring their own stories to life through audio.

With a mix of humor, insight, and technical know-how, he shares how authors can take control of their creative output by learning the art of sound.

Ben reflects on his journey from indie publishing to full-length audiobook production, revealing how he built his own recording setup from budget-friendly gear and a DIY booth made of mattress foam and packing blankets.

His point is clear: professional sound doesn’t have to come with a professional price tag. He champions a hands-on, learn-as-you-go approach and breaks down the difference between dynamic and condenser microphones—offering straightforward advice on what independent creators actually need.

But the conversation goes well beyond gear. Ben and Dave explore the deeper connection between performance and authenticity. Narrating a story, Ben explains, isn’t just reading words on a page—it’s performing them.

Whether you’re recording an audiobook, appearing on a podcast, or giving an interview, being “on” matters. Ben draws from his theater background and years as an emcee to explain how to turn up your energy, engage your audience, and treat every interaction like a live performance. This, he says, is how storytellers can make listeners feel something real.

He also speaks directly to writers who doubt their own ability to narrate their work, challenging the common fear of hearing one’s own voice.

As Ben puts it, everyone cringes at first—but getting past that hesitation opens up an entirely new way to connect with readers. Along the way, he touches on mastering, consistency in recording, and why treating your host and audience like friends leads to more natural, memorable conversations.

Ben shares stories from his own experiences in both narration and podcasting—offering grounded advice on leaning in, adding a little extra energy, and always remembering that someone out there is listening. Whether you’re a new author looking to build a personal brand or a podcaster hoping to stand out, this episode is packed with real-world wisdom and a dose of good humor.

Key takeaway: Great audio storytelling isn’t about expensive equipment—it’s about showing up with confidence, learning the craft, and treating your voice as part of your creative toolkit.

Be genuine, stay energized, and remember that your audience is right there with you.

Listen and explore more episodes at howtopodcast.ca

Ben's recommended tech setup for Audiobooks and Podcast Guesting

Budget Microphone: Fifine K688, https://amzn.to/3XqK7FW

Alternative, slightly brighter sound, slightly cheaper than K688: Fifine AM8, https://amzn.to/4ovpNz8

Budget Interface: Fifine SC1, https://amzn.to/4hWjDFV

Budget Headphones: Koss UR20, https://amzn.to/4nQ3TW8

Dave's MicUSB Microphone, MAONO 192kHz/24Bit Plug & Play PC Computer Podcast Condenser Cardioid Metal Mic Kit with Professional Sound Chipset for Recording, Gaming, Singing, YouTube (AU-A04) - https://amzn.to/43qAJFV

EPISODE 537 - Stories Beyond Borders - powerful journeys of migration, self-discovery and resilience With CO-HOST - Urmi Hossain

Stories Beyond Borders is a podcast that explores identity, culture, and belonging through raw, real, and inspiring conversations. It is a place that celebrates voices that defy labels and stories that transcend geographic and emotional borders.Whether you're a third culture kid, a global soul, or someone navigating life between worlds, you'll find connection, courage, and community here.Each episode features guests who share powerful journeys of migration, self-discovery, resilience, and what it means to live beyond borders—literal or not.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/urmihossain/

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EPISODE 536 - PodMatch, Designing with Love - instructional design and curriculum planning with Guest Co-Host Jackie Pelegrin

Jackie Pelegrin - Instructional Designer, Author, College Professor, and Podcast HostJackie, an Arizona native, leverages decades of experience as an instructional designer within both higher education and the corporate world. She holds an MBA and a Master of Science in Instructional Design and Technology, both acquired through online learning. In addition to her full-time role, Jackie serves as an adjunct instructor, teaching online courses at Grand Canyon University. During her leisure time, she delights in reading books across a range of genres, enjoying movies and TV shows, playing games, listening to uplifting music, and spending quality time with her family and friends.Designing with love, purpose, and heart.This show explores instructional design, e-learning, and how to incorporate AI technology into different aspects of the field.Tune in for expert tips, real-world insights, and inspiring stories from students, alumni, and leaders in the field.

https://www.designingwithloveblog.com/

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Episode 535 - A Strategic Growth Mindset for Podcasters That You Won't Hear on other Podcasts About Podcasting

In this episode, Dave introduces a perspective on podcast growth that stands in sharp contrast to the “get big fast” advice pushed by many industry gurus. Rather than chasing viral moments or obsessing over top one percent rankings, he argues for a mindset built on sustainability and long-term consistency. The core idea is simple but powerful: stay small enough long enough and you will be big enough soon enough.

Dave challenges the industry’s obsession with rapid growth and vanity stats, pointing out that most podcasters do not make life changing money and do not need to be in the top hundred to have meaningful impact. Instead, small shows offer unique advantages. With no pressure from sponsors or production teams, creators can experiment freely, refine their voice, test new segments and learn what their audience actually wants. Early stage podcasting becomes a creative sandbox where mistakes are inexpensive and discovery is personal.

He emphasizes that smaller audiences create deeper relationships. When listeners choose your show in a world overflowing with content, that choice matters. Responding to comments, recognizing listener patterns and building community becomes far easier when your audience is intimate and manageable. These early listeners often become the strongest supporters of the show as it grows.

Dave also explains the importance of developing reliable systems before scale arrives. From recording workflows to analytics understanding to promotional habits, staying small gives creators space to build the processes that larger shows rely on. Success becomes far more sustainable when the groundwork has already been done during the “small enough” phase.

Longevity and consistency are highlighted as essential ingredients of success. Many podcasters give up too soon, interpreting slow growth as failure rather than part of the natural learning curve. Dave reminds listeners that it may take twenty, fifty or even several hundred episodes for one to truly take off. The only way to reach that moment is to keep going.

He also warns against the dangers of going viral before a show is ready. Growth only works when craft, consistency and systems align. Stay small enough long enough allows podcasters to find their voice, understand their data and iterate based on real listener behavior so that when growth comes, the show can sustain it.

As the episode closes, Dave invites listeners to invest in their craft, not shortcuts. Whether through free resources, community meetups or one on one coaching, he encourages podcasters to choose tools they feel confident with, practice often and avoid getting overwhelmed by technology or comparisons.

Key Takeaway:
Podcast success is not about starting big. It is about staying committed through the small stages long enough to develop the skills, systems and confidence that create meaningful, lasting growth. Consistency compounds, and podcasters who stay the course eventually become the shows people want to discover and keep listening to.

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Episode 534 - Saying No To Sponsors For Your Podcast - Making Money With Your Podcast is Not Every Podcaster's Main Desire

In this episode of The How To Podcast Series, Dave explores one of the most misunderstood truths in the podcasting world: not every podcaster wants sponsors, needs sponsors, or should build their show around sponsorship deals. While sponsorships dominate the conversation in podcasting circles, they’re not the only path—and for many creators, they’re not even the right one.

Dave begins by challenging the assumption that sponsorship is the “gold standard” of podcast monetization. For newer podcasters especially, the race to secure sponsors can add pressure, obligation, and creative compromise long before a show is ready. He explains how ads can shift the tone, interrupt the flow of episodes, or create a sense of performance anxiety when the joy of creating should be the priority.

To show what’s possible outside of the traditional sponsorship model, Dave highlights the Savannah Bananas, a wildly successful baseball team-turned-entertainment brand that flipped the industry on its head without relying on sponsors. They built a powerful, loyal fan base by focusing on:

• experience and community

• innovative ideas

• a product worth talking about

• direct value for their audience

More importantly, Dave reminds listeners that you don’t have to monetize at all—and many podcasters don’t. For some, the show itself is the reward: a creative outlet, a networking tool, a way to serve others, or a chance to document ideas and conversations worth sharing.

He emphasizes that saying “no” to sponsors isn’t a failure or a missed opportunity—it’s a choice that podcasters can make intentionally, based on what kind of creator they want to be and what kind of relationship they want with their audience.

As the episode closes, Dave encourages podcasters to build a show that aligns with their values rather than chasing industry pressure. If sponsorships someday make sense, they’ll be there. If they don’t, the podcast can still be wildly successful on its own terms—just like the Savannah Bananas.

Key Takeaway:
You don’t need sponsors to have a meaningful, impactful, or successful podcast. Saying “no” to sponsorship can actually open the door to more creative freedom, stronger audience trust, and monetization paths that fit your show—not someone else’s definition of success.

Their success proves that sponsorship isn’t the only path—and sometimes avoiding it altogether leads to more creativity, flexibility, and long-term loyalty.

Dave then helps podcasters evaluate whether a sponsor model is the right approach for their show. Sponsorships can be great for podcasts with large, consistent reach and a clear niche audience. But for many indie creators, alternatives may be more aligned with their goals, values, or production style.

He walks through additional ways podcasters can think about value, impact, and income without depending on pre-roll ads or mid-roll breaks. These include:

• creating paid bonus content or memberships

• offering coaching, consulting, or services

• creating products or digital downloads

• leveraging affiliate relationships

• building a community-supported model (Patreon, Buy Me a Coffee)

• using your podcast as a tool for connection rather than monetization

https://thesavannahbananas.com/https://shop.thesavannahbananas.com/products/fans-first-book-by-jesse-cole

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