🤖 AI & the End of Humanity?

👋Hey there Podcaster!

Last week’s Podcasting Morning Chat delivered some serious brain fuel, from questioning whether AI could eventually outsmart (or outmaneuver) humanity, to unpacking whether YouTube’s rise as the top podcast platform is really all it’s cracked up to be. In one conversation, we dove deep into Dr. Roman Yampolskiy’s chilling AI predictions and what they mean for creators like us. In another, we explored the retention gap between flashy YouTube views and loyal audio listeners, and why tracking attention might be your new superpower. Let’s get into it. 👇

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🤖 AI & the End of Humanity?

Could AI really pose an existential threat to humanity? That’s the question we wrestled with during last week’s Podcasting Morning Chat, inspired by Joe Rogan’s mind-blowing interview with AI expert Dr. Roman Yampolskiy. Spoiler alert: this wasn’t your average AI debate! It was a wild ride from quantum computing to superintelligence to the soul of storytelling.

Here’s the kicker: Dr. Yampolskiy believes there’s a near 100% chance AI could eventually threaten humanity. Yes, you read that right. He suggests some AIs might already be “acting dumb” to build our trust while secretly learning and growing more powerful.

But don’t panic (yet). We also explored how creators like us can still shape the future, especially when it comes to podcasting.

🎙 Here Are the Big Takeaways:

• Experts estimate a 20–30% chance AI could pose a serious threat, but some, like Dr. Yampolskiy, peg it closer to 100%.
  • AI might be “playing dumb” while evolving rapidly behind the scenes.
  • Thought leadership and authenticity are more critical than ever—human voices still matter.
  • Podcasting is evolving into more interactive, personalized, and immersive formats, but human connection is the premium.
  • Over-regulation looms, especially as misinformation spreads and AI-generated content floods the space.

👥 Why This Matters for Creators:

• Trust in tech must be earned…blind trust is no longer an option.
  • Your real voice is your edge. AI might generate scripts, but it can’t replicate lived experience or emotional truth.
  • The future of podcasting will include AI hosts, interactive storytelling, VR integration, and custom content…are you ready to adapt?
  • Balance is key: let AI support your creativity, not replace it.

🎧 As our discussion showed, we’re not just observers of change…we’re in it. From kid-led interactive shows like Tales from the Cloud Sea to predictions of AI-generated content dominating, the future is coming fast. Our job? Stay curious, stay human, and keep telling stories that only we can.

📣 What do you think? Is AI an opportunity, a threat, or just a tool? Hit reply and let us know your thoughts, and how you’re preparing for the future of storytelling.

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📉 YouTube May Be Winning Clicks… But Is It Losing Listeners?

It’s official: YouTube is now the #1 podcast platform in North America (US and Canada). But before we all start uploading long-form videos and calling it a day, there’s a major catch we need to talk about.

In a recent Podcasting Morning Chat, we dug into what no one else is really saying: most video podcasts on YouTube retain as little as 20% of viewers. Meanwhile, good ol' audio platforms like Apple are still holding strong with 50–70% completion rates. So the real question becomes:

🎯 Are we chasing views or building true listeners?

We love discoverability and YouTube’s algorithm is a powerhouse. But if people are clicking and bouncing within minutes, what’s the real ROI? Especially for podcasters whose goals are depth, trust, and community, not just virality.

🧠 Here’s What We Explored:

• Audio often delivers longer engagement, even though video gets more clicks
  • Retention is the new metric to watch (are you tracking it as closely as downloads?)
  • YouTube Shorts and clips can be great discovery tools, but don’t replace long-form trust
  • The attention span gap is real, and creators must design with intention across platforms
  • Podcasts that convert (into loyal fans or paying clients) usually prioritize depth over scale

🎙️ Your Platform Strategy Matters

As podcasting evolves, it’s tempting to treat YouTube as the Holy Grail. But before you invest in full video production, ask: Who are you trying to reach? And how do they listen?

For many of us, the deeper connection still lives in audio…the dog walks, the workouts, the late-night earbuds. YouTube might win the race for plays, but audio still wins for presence.

✨ Pro tip: Pair short-form YouTube content for reach with a rock-solid audio experience for retention. It’s not either/or…it’s strategic both/and.

What’s working for you right now? Are you finding balance across video and audio, or feeling pressure to lean one way? Reply and let’s unpack it together.

P.S. Don’t sleep on your retention numbers. That’s where the gold is. 💡

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🎉 We’re Nominated – And We Need Your Vote! 🗳️

Big news! The Podcasting Morning Chat has been nominated for the Podcast Awards in TWO amazing categories:

🏆 The Adam Curry People’s Choice Award
📚 The Education Award

This recognition means the world to us, and now we need your help to bring it home! Voting is officially open at PodcastAwards.com. It only takes a minute to cast your vote and support a show that’s all about learning, growing, and starting the day with meaningful conversation.

👉 Head to PodcastAwards.com, sign up to vote, and select The* Podcasting Morning Chat in both categories!

*they have us listed alphabetically under ‘T’ for ‘T’he Podcasting Morning Chat. 

Thank you for being such an amazing part of our podcasting family. Let’s do this together! 💛

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🎙️Podcasting Morning Chat Highlights🌅

Welcome to your essential morning brew of ideas and insights, the "Podcasting Morning Chat" is a daily show that's by creators, for creators. A dynamic team of experienced podcasters, entrepreneurs, and producers hosts the PMC. Each episode peels back the curtain on the art of podcasting and content creation. The conversation is a mix of insights, stories, and strategies, tailor-made to keep your content fresh, your audience engaged, and your creative spark alive. 

Recorded live every Tuesday-Friday (temporary summer schedule) at 7 AM EST on Clubhouse and available via podcast at 7 AM PST, our show has become a cornerstone for podcasters worldwide, offering a unique blend of expert advice, real-world success stories, and innovative ideas. Whether you're here to enhance your content, expand your audience, or just soak in the collective wisdom of fellow content creators, the PMC is your source for inspiration, empowerment and connection in the podcasting world. 

Catch up with the latest episodes and join our global community of creators to kick-start your day with creativity, strategy, and insight.

• July 8, 2025: Episode #334: How To Handle Draining Podcast Tasks
• July 9, 2025: Episode #335: Prime Day Deals for Podcasters & Who's Actually Listening?
• July 10, 2025: Episode #336: How Far Will AI Go in Podcasting by 2030?
• July 11, 2025: Episode #337: Do You Really Need a Consent Form?

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I’m so grateful to be connected with you and a part of your podcast journey. 

All My Best,

👋Marc Ronick

This content was composed with assistance from OpenAI

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