Episodes

Recently, I had one of those gut-punch moments every creator dreads: a dream interview, a perfect conversation… and I realized afterward that I never hit record. It was embarrassing, frustrating, and, honestly, it shook me more than I expected. Instead of hiding it, I’m bringing the whole story here, the missteps, the emotions, and the lesson I learned about giving myself grace when things go wrong. And I’m not alone. In today’s episode, other creators from our community open up about their own ...

Your first minute can make or break listener trust, and you might be surprised by how quickly listeners decide whether to stay or go. Today, we take a close look at Sean McClellan’s Motivation: Not Letting Fear Control You from his podcast The Space Between and unpack what podcasters at every level can learn from it. We break down where the episode shines, where it stumbles, and how small tweaks in structure, pacing, audio setup, and intro strategy can completely reshape the listener experience....

What happens when you get first access to a feature drop before the rest of the podcasting world wakes up? Today, we sit down with Riverside’s own Kendall Breitman for an early look at their newest update! You’ll have to listen to find out! Kendall shares what’s live now, what’s coming next, and how Riverside is responding to the growing demand for smarter, simpler workflows. From there, we open the conversation to the wider news cycle, including the unveiling of Gemini 3, as well as upcoming in...

Is your financial system ready for the new year, or are you still relying on a "shoebox full of receipts?" It's time to build a solid foundation for 2026. We welcome tax and accounting expert Ralph Estep, who shares his years of experience helping entrepreneurs set up real systems for stress-free growth. Ralph gives actionable advice on everything from setting up a separate business credit card and bank account to navigating estimated quarterly taxes, emphasizing that consistency matters more th...

Lucy Werner, a widely respected PR and branding expert, joins us to dig into the surprising truth behind audience growth. Ever wonder why your smartest ideas barely make a ripple, or why visibility feels so elusive, no matter how hard you work? And what can a full Substack wipeout reveal about the way you show up as a creator? She’s experienced this pitfall, and she’s here to unpack the real reasons creators stay hidden, the simple shifts that make you instantly more discoverable, and the mindse...

Are you unintentionally losing listeners every time you record for both video and audio? Today, the team digs into one of the biggest questions indie podcasters are wrestling with right now: how do you grow your show by embracing video without leaving your audio-only audience behind? Settle in, because we break down the expectations, myths, and simple shifts that help creators thrive across both formats. You’ll learn how to make each episode more accessible, more adaptable, and more discoverable...

What truly keeps a professional audience listening? Today, we put Exam Room Nutrition under the microscope to find out. We evaluate how storytelling flow, clarity, and pacing shape that crucial first impression, and all of this plays into listener trust. We look at how clearly the episode speaks to its target audience, where the messaging connects, and where it drifts. We also review the title, cover art, and episode description to see if they clearly match the promise of the show. We also break...

Podcasting just got a serious shake-up. TikTok partners with iHeartMedia to introduce creators to long-form audio, Threads launches tools designed to enhance connection and discovery, and Rode unveils sleek new gear that simplifies video production for many creators. What happens when social platforms start thinking like media networks? And how will these updates change the way indie creators grow their shows? Join us as we explore what this wave of innovation means for podcasters, why the timin...

How often do you feel overwhelmed by all the steps it takes to produce content? From research to recording, editing, publishing, and repurposing, it’s a lot. Today, I’m putting the spotlight on co-host Nick Nalbach, who recently built a custom project management app to tackle this exact problem. Even more impressive? He built it in just 48 hours using AI, and he’s not a coder. We talk about the mental load that comes with content creation, what inspired the build, and how his app helps track ti...

We’re wrapping up our evaluation of You Are Your Biggest Asset with host Carina Groombridge, exploring how smart branding builds trust and connection from the start. This time, we break down what makes cover art, titles, and descriptions work together to attract listeners and clearly communicate your show’s purpose. To close out this inspiring week of episodes, we share our wins and celebrate the creativity flowing through our community. Episode Highlights: [01:44] Listener Feedback [06:49] Ev...

Today, we evaluate You Are Your Biggest Asset with host Carina Groombridge, breaking down how clarity, structure, and storytelling drive listener engagement. You’ll learn why a strong hook and clear promise keep audiences tuned in, and how purposeful intros, early value, and story-driven examples build real connection. Regardless if you’re a podcast newbie or more seasoned, this evaluation will help you sharpen your approach to creating, improving, and growing your show with focus and intention....

We’re celebrating our 400th episode today, while discussing the latest trends and news in the podcasting world. Key topics include Netflix's recent moves in podcasting, new features introduced by Apple Podcasts, the impact of AI tools on podcast advertising, and the ongoing gender gap in the industry. Episode Highlights: 01:55 Celebrating Milestones and Upcoming Events 04:42 Breaking News in Podcasting 09:39 Podcast Data and Rankings 17:49 New Tools and Innovations in Podcasting 28:47 Priva...

What’s your go-to ritual for shaking off negativity? Today’s conversation begins with that simple question and unfolds into a powerful talk about handling feedback as a creator. We explore how to process what’s useful, release what’s not, and protect your peace in the middle of the noise. You’ll hear fresh perspectives on reflection, gratitude, and staying grounded when opinions fly your way. If you’ve ever second-guessed a review or let a comment get under your skin, this episode is your remind...

What can podcasters learn from one of the biggest celebrity shows on the planet? While Marc is traveling, guest host Jonathan Howard takes the wheel to lead the PMC crew in a conversation about SmartLess, the hit podcast hosted by Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett. We analyze clips to uncover why the show’s mystery-guest format works, how its chemistry keeps listeners hooked, and what independent creators can borrow from its “organized chaos.” We also discuss techniques for making gues...

We kick off this Halloween edition of Podcasting Morning Chat, swapping stories about our favorite costumes through the years. Then, we spin the Wheel of Topics and dig into the habits that help podcasters stay consistent, organized, and creative. We open up about what’s working, what needs work, and the myths we’d love to bust about podcasting. To wrap things up, we share our weekly wins and celebrate the small victories that keep creators moving forward. Happy Halloween! Episode Highlights: [...

Meet Magdalena, an indie podcaster who created the podcast, Unbreakable Spirit, using only her iPhone. Today, we’re evaluating her episode “Act of Letting Go” and exploring what every podcaster can learn from her approach to storytelling, sound, and structure. We discuss her intro, cover art, and delivery style, discussing how a soft, mindful tone can serve a specific audience. You’ll hear practical tips on improving audio with free tools, refining your brand promise, and creating cover art that...

What do Hollywood awards, AI tools, and podcast data have in common? They’re all changing the game. Today, we jump into the Golden Globes’ new “Best Podcast” category and why many insiders are calling it a cash grab. We unpack Oxford Road’s report showing niche shows outperforming big names and what that means for indie creators. We also highlight new tech shaking up production, including Riverside’s latest upgrades, Adobe’s YouTube Shorts integration, and Zoom’s new P4 Next. Plus, we look at NP...

At some point, every creator hits that moment where they ask themselves, Do I double down on growth, start monetizing, or step back to realign? Today, we’re sharing the turning points that define a podcaster’s next move. We dig into audience building, brand promise, and how to know when it’s time to pivot. Ralph of Financially Confident Christian joins the conversation to share how defining your “why” and setting a strong foundation can turn passion projects into sustainable ventures. We also op...

What if non-stop publishing is quietly killing your creativity, or is keeping a steady stream of episodes the only thing keeping you afloat? Today, we tackle one of podcasting’s most debatable questions: Should you produce in seasons or keep going all year? Jason from Bombtrack Media and Julia from The Podcast Teacher join us to share their sharp, experience-based views. Jason views seasons as an opportunity to recharge and refine, while Julia believes that steady output fosters trust and loyal ...

We’re starting a new type of episode where we evaluate podcasts and kindly discuss what makes a show work and what holds it back. Today, we review The Runner’s Sole by podiatrist Dr. Sharon Miller, a niche running show on foot health and injury prevention. We break down audio quality (intro music length, headset feel, warmth vs over-processing), sound effects balance, and utilize tighter hooks. Then we look at branding: clearer cover art, consistent episode art, a keyword-rich subtitle, and smar...

Today is News Day, and we’re covering some of the hottest headlines in the podcasting industry. YouTube wants podcasters to think like creators, and its new Podcast Playbook is full of tips to boost visibility and engagement. The crew discusses what this means for hosts, from thumbnail strategy and video setup to utilizing chapters that keep listeners engaged. We also cover Spotify’s first FAST TV channel, the Black Podcasting Awards, and Apple’s reminder to plan for the holiday publishing rush....

How do you prepare before you hit record? Do you plan every detail, keep a loose outline, or just hit the red button and go? Today, we’re sharing how we approach preparation and how those choices shape creativity, confidence, and the listener experience. We give tips on making a script sound natural, and why there’s no single right way to plan a show. You’ll also gain insights into time management and maintaining fresh ideas. Ultimately, it’s about showing up ready to create. Episode Highlights...

What makes a podcaster rethink everything instead of walking away? Today, we sit down with co-host Sid Meadows, creator of The Trend Report, to unpack why he nearly ended his podcast and what led him to rebuild it instead. Sid opens up about the burnout that caused him to podfade, the breakthrough moment that brought him back, and the intentional steps behind his relaunch: listener interviews, new sponsorship plans, and a renewed sense of purpose. We also explore how to balance instinct with aud...

The research is clear: 80% of listeners tune in mainly for the host, not the format, not the gear, but the person behind the mic. Today, we continue our podcasting news conversation with fresh headlines and honest discussion about what really keeps audiences listening. We discuss Adobe’s AI-powered speech tool, making TIME’s Best Inventions of 2025 list, sparking debate about how creators understand and utilize AI. The crew also weighs in on Auphonic, sharing their own experiences, frustrations,...