Does every podcast need a lesson, or can a good story be enough? In today’s evaluation, we examine Shared Delights, a short-form storytelling podcast designed to offer warmth, humor, and a brief escape. Instead of aiming for transformation or instruction, the show focuses on how a story feels in the moment and what it gives the listener emotionally. Using Shared Delights as a case study, we take a close look at how pacing, pauses, and delivery shape clarity and attention. We explore sound design choices and how music and effects can either support the story or pull focus away from it. We also talk about the balance between structure and spontaneity, and why alignment between intention, sound, and presentation matters more than polish alone. Just a reminder: entertainment and escapism are valid podcast goals. This episode invites podcasters to listen to their work the way their audience does and consider how each choice shapes the experience

Episode Highlights:

[02:18] Empowered Podcasting Conference announcement

[04:38] Evaluation of the Shared Delights podcast

[06:32] Listener feedback and early suggestions

[14:00] Cover art and branding discussion

[30:42] Crafting an enticing show title

[32:47] The importance of pacing and clarity

[36:58] Enhancing the experience with sound design

[49:31] Discoverability and growth strategies

Links & Resources:

Join The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:

www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcasting⁠

Shared Delights (Wedding Crasher): https://open.spotify.com/episode/1pfvQbyTC2J4j7f07RlgTb?si=DAciGVe4TRqSeyq5Glnb3w

Shared Delights Naked Eureka:

https://open.spotify.com/episode/2gIMkfSyZDCZb07Jzzlx5p

Podpage:

https://www.podpage.com/?via=ironickmedia

Matthew Bliss’ Cover Art Revision #1:

https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/wwqru8i9ovo0dzc69pba8/SharedDelights_CoverArt.jpg?rlkey=q0da5tpxr6sufk9fhqp3lu14j&st=xniphsrv&dl=0

Cover Art Revision #2:

https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/djp3p40uzi6bl1xm8sxlc/SharedDelights_CoverArt2.jpg?rlkey=3kjin994w8ci4qckkulql4ewb&st=ez35nof5&dl=0

To Have Your Podcast Considered For Evaluation, Please Complete This Form:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U

Remember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.

Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on ⁠Clubhouse⁠: ⁠⁠⁠ https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0w⁠⁠

Or Join us on Chatter: https://preview.chattersocial.io/group/98a69881-f328-4eae-bf3c-9b0bb741481d

Live on YouTube: ⁠https://youtube.com/@marcronick⁠

Brought to you by⁠ ⁠iRonickMedia.com⁠⁠

Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!

--- Send in your mailbag question at:⁠ https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/⁠ or ⁠marc@ironickmedia.com⁠

Want to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here:

⁠https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b⁠

What if we told you Instagram is testing a way for users to control their own algorithm and decide what they see? That experiment alone has big implications for podcast discovery and creator visibility. For today’s news day, we’re walking through several updates, such as Apple Podcasts adding automatic chapters and timed links. We also dig into recent AI updates that are making image editing easier and opening the door for new collaborative workflows, especially for creators working in teams. We also highlight several upcoming virtual and in-person events that podcasters may want to keep on their radar.

Episode Highlights:

[02:04] Preview of an upcoming evaluation episode

[04:16] Podcast statistics and top charts

[11:13] Upcoming events for podcasters

[25:51] Exploring new AI features

[26:28] ChatGPT’s image generator

[31:20] Group chat feature in ChatGPT

[36:24] Empowered Podcasting Conference video library

[39:04] Instagram’s algorithm customization tools

[43:38] Instagram’s move into a TV app

[45:00] Apple’s podcast interaction updates

Links & Resources:

Join The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:

www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcasting⁠

Our upcoming podcast evaluation, Shared Delights (Wedding Crasher): https://open.spotify.com/episode/1pfvQbyTC2J4j7f07RlgTb?si=DAciGVe4TRqSeyq5Glnb3w

Shared Delights Naked Eureka:

https://open.spotify.com/episode/2gIMkfSyZDCZb07Jzzlx5p

MeetUp & MatchUp use discount code PMC for free entry:

https://podnews.net/event/meetup-matchup-with-podcasters-speakers-and-authors-20

Podfest Expo: (use coupon code MARC for 10% off)

https://podfestexpo.com

NYC Podcast Awards:

www.silver-nyc.com/nycpodcastawards

PRX Training:

https://trainingteam.cmail20.com/t/i-e-zavil-iihydjihuh-h/

PodNews:

www.podnews.net

Podcast Creator Summit:

https://confirmsubscription.com/h/i/711FAA94F8F3A173

Apple’s Next Move for Podcast Interaction:

https://bit.ly/4iZtr2t

Remember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.

Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on ⁠Clubhouse⁠: ⁠⁠⁠ https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0w⁠⁠

Or Join us on Chatter: https://preview.chattersocial.io/group/98a69881-f328-4eae-bf3c-9b0bb741481d

Live on YouTube: ⁠https://youtube.com/@marcronick⁠

Brought to you by⁠ ⁠iRonickMedia.com⁠⁠

Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!

--- Send in your mailbag question at:⁠ https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/⁠ or ⁠marc@ironickmedia.com⁠

Want to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here:

⁠https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b⁠

As 2025 winds down, we pause to reflect on the choices shaping where we’re headed next in our podcasting journeys and beyond. We explore the impact of saying yes and no as a community, through honest stories about doubt, trust, rest, creativity, and change.

We share what it looks like to release patterns that no longer fit, and how small, intentional choices can create space for clarity. This conversation isn’t about having it all figured out. It’s about noticing where we are, listening to each other, and giving ourselves permission to move forward with intention. If you’re standing at the edge of a new year feeling unsure, you’re not alone. Join us and take a moment to breathe, reflect, and remember that clarity often begins together.

Episode Highlights:

[02:23] Podcast Evaluations and Reviews

[10:23] Setting Intentions for 2026

[13:57] Community Shares: Saying No and Yes in 2026

[26:17] Embracing Trust and Overcoming Doubt

[28:10] Collaboration and Abundance

[30:17] Saying Yes to Business Risks and Personal Growth

[31:38] Avoiding Chaos and Embracing Community

[34:02] Helping Others and Finding Fulfillment

[41:49] Wins and Reflections from the Week

Links & Resources:

Join The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:

www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcasting⁠

Empowered Podcasting Conference:

www.eventbrite.com/e/empowered-podcasting-conference-tickets-1976757134803

Upcoming Podcast For Evaluation: https://open.spotify.com/episode/44Mq04supW81rcuQeAVCB8?si=I-vp9camTrK0bvw1ZX6g6g

To Have Your Podcast Considered For Evaluation, Please Complete This Form:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U

Rethinking Podcasting With Matthew Bliss:

https://rethinkingpodcasting.com

Remember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.

Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on ⁠Clubhouse⁠: ⁠⁠⁠ https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0w⁠⁠

Or Join us on Chatter: https://preview.chattersocial.io/group/98a69881-f328-4eae-bf3c-9b0bb741481d

Live on YouTube: ⁠https://youtube.com/@marcronick⁠

Brought to you by⁠ ⁠iRonickMedia.com⁠⁠

Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!

--- Send in your mailbag question at:⁠ https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/⁠ or ⁠marc@ironickmedia.com⁠

Want to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here:

⁠https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b⁠

To understand how your podcast resonates with listeners, start by analyzing how another show approaches its opening moments. In today’s Indie Podcast Evaluation, we look at Carefree Highway Revisited, a show that reflects on the music of Canadian singer-songwriter Gordon Lightfoot. We highlight how a clear intro and steady interview flow create an inviting listener experience. You’ll see how pacing guides attention, how a host’s authority can add depth without taking over, and how simple SEO choices help a show get found.

Episode Highlights:

[02:55] Podcast Hall of Fame News

[04:34] AI and Content Creation

[06:34] Indie Podcast Evaluation: Carefree Highway Revisited

[09:50] Cover Art Critique and Suggestions

[24:51] Opening Remarks and Introduction

[25:55] Discussion on Podcast Intro and Guest Context

[28:18] Importance of Episode Setup and Description

[31:29] Analyzing Content Quality and Storytelling

[37:27] Midroll Transition and Branding Discussion

[43:10] Final SEO Tip: Optimizing Show Notes for Discovery

Links & Resources:

Join The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:

www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcasting⁠

Empowered Podcasting Conference:

www.eventbrite.com/e/empowered-podcasting-conference-tickets-1976757134803

To Have Your Podcast Considered For Evaluation, Please Complete This Form:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U

Carefree Highway Revisited:

https://www.podbean.com/ea/pb-j6vtj-1961b14

Create a Podcast Website in Minutes with PodPage:

https://www.podpage.com/?via=ironickmedia

Remember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.

Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on ⁠Clubhouse⁠: ⁠⁠⁠ https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0w⁠⁠

Or Join us on Chatter: https://preview.chattersocial.io/group/98a69881-f328-4eae-bf3c-9b0bb741481d

Live on YouTube: ⁠https://youtube.com/@marcronick⁠

Brought to you by⁠ ⁠iRonickMedia.com⁠⁠

Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!

--- Send in your mailbag question at:⁠ https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/⁠ or ⁠marc@ironickmedia.com⁠

Want to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here:

⁠https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b⁠

What if your show had a format designed only for your super fans? Today, we look at what a private podcast actually is and how it works behind the scenes. We’re joined by trusted podcasting expert Cliff Ravenscraft, who helps us understand the mechanics: how access is controlled, how episodes are delivered, and why a private feed functions differently from a public show. Cliff explains how creators use private podcasts for focused communication, training, or more personal updates, and why clarity on purpose matters more than fancy tools. We also explore the expectations you set for your audience, and how those choices help mold the value of your private podcast.

Episode Highlights:

[02:36] Upcoming Episodes and Announcements

[05:31] Cliff Ravenscraft on Private Podcasts

[08:00] Benefits and Use Cases of Private Podcasts

[18:01] Monetization and Platforms for Private Podcasts

[19:53] Hosting Private Podcasts on Your Own Website

[24:41] Substack as a Private Podcast Platform

[26:20] Legal Disclaimer and Privacy Concerns

[30:49] Marketing Strategies for Private vs. Public Podcasts

[45:05] Creating a Private Podcast for Courses and Business

Links & Resources:

Join The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:

www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcasting⁠

Cliff Ravenscraft:

https://www.cliffravenscraft.com

Podcast Answer Man:

www.cliffravenscraft.com/podcasts/podcast-answer-man

BC Babbles:

https://bcbabbles.substack.com

To Have Your Podcast Considered For Evaluation, Please Complete This Form:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U

Preview of our Upcoming Evaluation Carefree Highway Revisited:

https://www.podbean.com/ea/pb-j6vtj-1961b14

Rodecaster Pro 2:

https://amzn.to/41h9yuN

Remember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.

Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on ⁠Clubhouse⁠: ⁠⁠⁠ https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0w⁠⁠

Or Join us on Chatter: https://preview.chattersocial.io/group/98a69881-f328-4eae-bf3c-9b0bb741481d

Live on YouTube: ⁠https://youtube.com/@marcronick⁠

Brought to you by⁠ ⁠iRonickMedia.com⁠⁠

Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!

--- Send in your mailbag question at:⁠ https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/⁠ or ⁠marc@ironickmedia.com⁠

Want to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here:

⁠https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b⁠