Episodes

Have you ever taken a break from podcasting or social media? Today, co-host Nick Nalbach shares his experience restarting his online presence and why helping people find real-life uses for AI is a big part of his approach. In the second half of our conversation, we break down podcast guest one-sheets. Are they useful or just wasted energy? Some podcasters swear by them, while others use different presentation strategies. We also discuss guest booking agencies and whether a podcast guest certific...

Have you been procrastinating on tasks related to your podcast? You’ve got the concept planned out, purchased the equipment, and even planned some episodes, but you’re stuck and can’t seem to get started or continue with the work needed to maintain your existing podcast. If this is you, listen closely because today we have a special guest neuroscientist, Dr. Rowshanak Hashemiyoon, to share the science behind different types of procrastination and why content creators often delay the work require...

We’re starting the weekend with an engaging game of ‘What Would You Do?’ and explore thought-provoking scenarios related to guests, sponsorships, and content choices. We discuss the ethical implications of sensationalizing content while maintaining authenticity and examine the appropriateness of promoting a product without personal experience. To wrap up the week, we celebrate our community wins, including powerful Black history moments, podcast launches, and inspiring community and personal gro...

Do you believe charging guests to appear on your podcast is ethical? Today, we’re revisiting the controversial pay-to-play podcast model and the larger conversation around setting fair prices for services. We also share a clarification from a podcast news story we covered in episode #236. Go check that out for more context. Beyond that, this conversation turns into a bigger discussion on pricing, value, and how service-based business owners determine what to charge. If you’ve ever struggled with...

It’s news day, and we’re bringing you the latest Podcast industry headlines. Today we lightly debate how Chris Voss’s pay-to-play model has ruffled some feathers as to whether guests should pay for a spot on his show and if this is an ethical model for podcasters to implement. We also take a look at how AI is shaping live audio with Elgato’s Wavelink 2.0, why music publishers are pressuring Spotify to remove podcasts with unlicensed music, and what these changes mean for creators. We also share ...

Have you always wanted to feel a deeper connection with your audience? Do you feel like they engage with your content but do not fully know your story? Do you ever wonder if your audience truly understands you and your values? This topic was inspired recently by a question from the community about what happens when the tables turn and you become the guest on your own podcast and we discuss how to prepare for the hot seat and share best practices for choosing the right interviewer, preparing them...

Have you ever been excited for an interview, only to feel the energy drop the moment you hit record? You’re not alone. We have all been there and today we’re sharing our cringe-worthy moments when interviews didn’t go as planned—and how we turned them around. Today we’re talking about improving your interview skills by setting your guest up for success by crafting better questions, keeping the conversation flowing, and how to use editing to preserve your guest’s message while creating a seamless...

While our fearless leader, Marc, is away, the co-hosts are taking the helm, and we have a question for you! What tools power your podcast workflow? With so many options out there, it’s easy to get lost in the sea of digital and physical gear. Today, we’re comparing the tools we use, sharing setup tweaks, and helping each other find the best solutions. We celebrate wins and declare challenges as we wrap up the week. Listen all the way to the end for a powerful mindset shift to help podcasters pus...

While our fearless leader Marc is traveling, the crew is taking the wheel and cruising through more hot podcasting headlines! We’re breaking down DeepSeek, a mysterious new AI model that’s shaking up the tech world, uncovering surprising insights about podcast listeners, and sharing our ultimate AI tool wishlists—because let’s be honest, we all want podcasting to be easier. We also spotlight some free virtual events that could help you grow your show with the Headliner App. Don’t miss this one! ...

If a previous guest on your podcast asked you to remove their episode, would you honor their request? Today, we kick things off with a thought-provoking question from our Facebook group, sparking a discussion on guest requests, ethics, and best practices. What are the implications of removing an episode? Should podcasters honor all removal requests, or does the creator have a right to keep published content available? Today, we share how we would handle these requests. Next, we cover recent podc...

Podcast episode numbers. Do you need them? Where should they go? And how do they impact your show’s organization and discoverability? We weigh the pros and cons of numbering episodes, explore strategies for categorizing content, and share strategies to make it more likely for your audience to discover your show. But first, "what’s the best and worst podcasting advice you’ve ever received?” We kick things off with this icebreaker question where we share experiences and insights that you might rel...

Is podfade creeping up on you? You've got your topic. You've invested in the gear. But now, you're feeling the weight of the never-ending grind you never saw coming. Sound familiar? You're not alone. According to BuzzSprout, Podfade is the silent killer of 75% of new podcasts, and today, we're discussing why many podcasters struggle with it. It's also no secret that social media platforms are constantly evolving. With the recent TikTok ban leaving millions searching for alternatives, we are als...

Are you pulling your hair out when it comes to naming your podcast? You’ve created the content and are excited about your new show on the horizon, but you just can’t nail down an impactful title. Well, you’re in luck because today, we’re sharing strategies for crafting podcast titles that help podcasters increase their discoverability and align with their show’s topics. To wrap up the week, we close by reflecting on weekly wins and celebrating the fantastic accomplishments of the Empowered Podca...

Did you know that fake podcast clips are circulating on social media, spreading misinformation and deceiving millions? Even more shocking, there are LinkedIn articles that teach people how to create them! If this raises your eyebrows, you're in the right place because We're back with the latest podcasting headlines, which is a hot topic. We also analyze the generational shift toward spoken word audio, particularly podcasts among young people, and explore how this trend impacts monetization strat...

What if an AI model could help you stay on top of your podcasting tasks? Maybe it can! Today, we're discussing the new ChatGPT "Tasks" feature and how it might fit into your workflow. Google is also making waves with "The Daily Listen," an AI-generated podcast tailored to your interests—but would you actually listen to a podcast generated by AI? We're also looking at the top charting podcasts on Apple and Spotify. And let's not forget the recent TikTok ban—was Meta involved, or is this pure spec...

Podfest 2025 was a memorable experience, and the Empowered Podcasting community showed up and represented like never before. Did you miss Podfest 2025 and feel the FOMO? No worries—we're back from Orlando and ready to share all the highlights. Join us as we recap impactful sessions, meaningful connections, and moments of growth. We also share our thoughts on the venue, cost of attending, and overall value. Tune in and find out what made Podfest a must-attend event and how it can amplify your pod...

Podfest 2025 is in full swing here in Orlando, Florida, and we have stories to share! Several Empowered Podcasting Community members took the stage on opening day, and in this episode, they’re reflecting on the highs, the challenges, and the surprises along the way. We’re also closing out the week by celebrating every podcasting victory—no matter how big or small. Be sure to join us on Tuesday, January 21st, for the full Podfest recap! Episode Highlights: [6:56] Supporting Others and Setting B...

We're coming to you from PodFest in Orlando with a glimpse into the event's energy and networking opportunities. We kick off our conversation by addressing a question from the mailbag regarding shifts in podcast platform preferences, particularly the rise of Spotify over Apple Podcasts in recent years. We also expand on how to make the most of large conferences like PodFest and discuss the latest updates on the potential TikTok ban, emphasizing the importance of adapting to significant changes i...

Joe Rogan "broke a promise" to his listeners, and his fans aren't happy after Spotify quietly added unskippable midroll ads to his podcast—despite Rogan once claiming he'd never interrupt conversations with ads. Would you be upset if your favorite host did the same? Or is this just part of the business? Today, we're sharing the rest of the story and more of the latest podcasting news including the unveiling of Shure's innovative MV7i smart microphone, and we lightly analyze fresh industry data o...

Podfest 2025 is just around the corner, taking place from January 16th to 19th at the Renaissance Hotel in Orlando, Florida! As the longest-running in-person podcasting event, it's the perfect opportunity to connect, learn, and grow. With so much happening, how can you make the most of your experience? Today, we're joined by Podfest insider Larry Roberts, the host of the podcast "Branded" and the writer behind "Podfest Messenger," the official Podfest newsletter, to share tips on how to navigate...

How do you stay true to your values while creating an engaging podcast? Today, we discuss "What would you do" scenarios that many podcasters encounter when featuring guests with differing opinions, all while preserving the integrity of their show. But first, we reveal our favorite productivity tools and methods that help keep our workflows efficient and manage looming deadlines. Episode Highlights: [7:46] Icebreaker Question: What is the number one time saver you've created, found or bought tha...

Have you ever faced a professional opportunity that challenged your integrity for the sake of financial security? Today, we're weighing in on a 'Would You Rather' scenario sparked by a real-life story of a producer leaving The Diary of a CEO over misinformation concerns. We explore how podcasters might navigate similar ethical dilemmas in their careers. To wrap up the week, we celebrate our podcasting wins and send our heartfelt support to those affected by the California wildfires. Please donat...

Have you ever grappled with growing your podcast audience or monetizing your show? You’ve poured your heart into creating engaging content, but it feels like you’re spinning your wheels without seeing the growth you deserve. You’re in for a treat! We’re bringing back Tyler Perry, host of Believing the Bizarre, to break down his strategies for building an engaged audience and monetizing his niche podcast. Join us and find out how his cost-effective ad strategy and authentic approach paved the way...

What if you could grow your podcast audience from hundreds to thousands starting with with just $2-3 a day? That’s exactly what Tyler Perry (no, not the filmmaker…the host of the 'Believing the Bizarre' podcast) did. I had the opportunity to sit down with Tyler about how he used Meta ads to grow his niche paranormal podcast. He shared how he did it and why intentionality, clear goals, and truly understanding your audience are key to creating successful ad campaigns. If you're ready to grow your...