🎙️ When Podcasters Unite: Magic, Belonging & Breakthroughs ✨❤️

👋Hey there Podcaster!

What really happens when podcasters unite in one room? In this issue, I’m sharing my reflections from Empowered Podcasting 2—where connection, belonging, and unexpected breakthroughs took center stage. We’re also digging into the Mel Robbins ad paradox and what it teaches us about trust, audience loyalty, and when to monetize. Plus, don’t miss the latest insights from our Podcasting Morning Chat episodes, where we tackle everything from niche strategy to the future of podcasting. Let’s dive into what’s inspiring, challenging, and shaping the creator community right now.

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🎙️ When Podcasters Unite: Magic, Belonging & Breakthroughs ✨❤️

What happens when podcasters from all over come together in one room?

More than you’d ever expect.

This past weekend at Empowered Podcasting 2, it didn’t feel like a conference. It felt more like a family reunion… even for some who hadn’t met yet.

From the moment people stepped off the elevator, the energy was different. Not the nervous buzz you usually find at events but something grounded, warm, and inviting.

People who had only known each other online hugged like lifelong friends. First-time attendees said they felt instantly at home. Speakers and attendees sat side by side, sharing stories and laughs as equals.

For me personally, it was deeply meaningful. Conversations shifted how I think about what we’re building together. I saw transformations happen on stage and in quiet hallway moments… breakthroughs that will ripple far beyond Charlotte.

And truthfully, there were moments in the lead-up when I wasn’t sure this event would even happen. But because people stepped in (Andrea San Roman, Jason M. Cercone, Rich Perry, MBA, Junaid Ahmed 📹 Jonathan Howard to name a few) encouraged me, and refused to let me walk away… we created something unforgettable.

Here’s my biggest takeaway:

👉 Podcasting isn’t just about downloads, gear, or growth hacks.
👉 It’s about belonging.

When creators come together, we fuel each other with the clarity and courage to keep going.

To everyone who was part of Empowered Podcasting 2…whether you spoke, volunteered, attended, or cheered us on from afar…thank you. You are the reason this community exists.

And now… I can’t wait to start planning what’s next.

What was YOUR favorite connection, moment or learning from our event? Or another event if you missed ours! Reply and let me know!

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🎧 The Mel Robbins Ad Paradox

Mel Robbins’ podcast opens with six minutes of ads.

Her episodes often run 90 minutes, with about 15 minutes of ad time. Yet she still tops the charts in her category.

Most podcasters are warned not to frontload ads. The thinking is you’ll drive listeners away. So why does Mel’s audience stay loyal while others struggle?

Because they’ll tolerate what others can’t.

✅ She’s earned deep trust through years of books, videos, and speaking.
✅ Her content feels emotional, vulnerable, and real. Listeners describe her as “the new Oprah.”
✅ Even if ads are annoying, the storytelling makes them worth skipping past.

Listeners in the chat put it simply: the ads don’t matter because the connection is real. People stick with her because they feel she’s speaking directly to them.

Here’s the catch. Indie podcasters can’t copy-paste that strategy. Without the same brand equity, heavy ad loads can push new listeners away before they ever build loyalty

The Lesson

• Earn trust first. Ads can come later.
  
  
• Prioritize content. Strong episodes build staying power.
  
  
• Remember: ads aren’t the real problem. Lack of connection is.
  
  

👉 Ads don’t kill podcasts. Weak trust does.

So if you were launching a podcast today, would you run ads early or wait until your audience knows you?

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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.

• September 30, 2025: Episode #378: Empowered Podcasting Conference 2025 Recap
• October 1, 2025: Episode #379 Open AI Unveils Sora 2, Mel Robbins Tops Charts, & Celebrity vs. Indie Name Battle
• October 2, 2025: Episode #380: Should You Niche Down or Open Up?
• October 3, 2025: Episode #381: Is Gary Vee Right About Podcasting’s Future?

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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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