Bad Environments Lead to Bad Decisions

Bad environments lead to bad decisions, and boy, do we have stories to share! Ever looked back at some of your life choices and thought, “What on Earth was I thinking?” Yeah, me too!

We run into the chaos of those moments when our brains were more frazzled than a cat in a room full of rocking chairs. We chat about how a little bit of panic can turn us into decision-making nincompoops, like forgetting to get a website for our podcast.

Spoiler alert: Having a website is a big deal if you want anyone to find your show. So, let’s unpack this hot mess together and figure out how to avoid those cringe-worthy blunders!

Looking at our past decisions is like opening a box of stale donuts; it’s messy, and you might regret it. We’re all guilty of making choices when we’re not in the right headspace.

I share classic examples, like the time someone thought not having a website was a smart move. It’s not. You want people to find your podcast? They need a place to land, not just a vague hope that they might stumble across it while scrolling through cat memes.

Now, let's not throw shade. We all start from different places, but this was a classic example of being "rattled" lead to bad decisions.

Takeaways:

• Bad decisions often come from panic or being overwhelmed, so slow down and think.
• Having a website is crucial for podcasters to be found and grow their audience.
• People tend to overlook basic steps when launching, like having a website ready.
• Without a website, you’re basically invisible to potential listeners trying to find you.
• Word of mouth is key for podcast growth, but you need a solid strategy to make it work.
• Don’t let a frazzled mindset lead to bad decisions—stay organized and plan ahead.

Links referenced in this episode:

• schoolofpodcasting.com
• powerofpodcasting.com
• namecheap.com
• coolerwebsites.com

Ever wondered how to navigate the wild world of podcast sponsorship? Well, grab your favorite snack and settle in because we’re diving deep into everything you need to know about snagging that sweet sponsorship deal.

Picture this: you’re in a Facebook group, and someone’s practically begging for help because they’re clueless about how to answer a potential sponsor's questions. Yup, that’s our starting point!

We'll dig into the nitty-gritty of what sponsors want, how to present your podcast’s value, and why you should treat your audience like gold (because they are!). Spoiler alert: stuffing your show with ads is like throwing glitter on a garbage fire—totally unnecessary and just plain messy!

We also talk about the delicate balance of ads in your podcast. Ever heard of the 10% rule? Well, it’s a thing! Ads shouldn’t overwhelm your content; otherwise, you risk losing your audience faster than you can say ‘skip ad’. We’ll show real-life examples of how many ads are too many and why relevant ads can enhance the listening experience. And let’s not forget about the cash—how do you price your sponsorship deals? It’s all about charging what you’re worth and keeping that win-win vibe going. By the end, you’ll be ready to strut into your next sponsorship negotiation like a boss!

Takeaways:

• If you're diving into podcast sponsorship, get ready for some wild questions, folks!
• Understanding your audience is crucial, because irrelevant ads are like bad breath at a party.
• Keep your ads to a minimum; too many will have your listeners hitting that skip button.
• Finding the perfect sponsor is like dating; make sure you both vibe with each other's goals!
• Remember, your relationship with your audience is worth way more than you think, so charge accordingly!
• Don't just take any random ad; find something you actually love so your enthusiasm shines through!

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Oxford Road
• Libsyn Ads

Mentioned in this episode:

Ready to start your podcast the right way?

Join the School of Podcasting and get step-by-step courses covering everything from planning and equipment to editing, audience growth, and monetization. Plus, you'll get expert UNLIMITED coaching and a supportive community to guide you every step of the way. Start your podcast with confidence—join today! 👉 SchoolofPodcasting.com

School of Podcasting

Algorithms are like that friend who bails you out one minute and then ghost you the next. They can help you reach your audience or throw your content into the digital abyss. This episode looks into the wild world of serving both our lovely audience and those picky, mood-swinging algorithms.

We’re talking about how they can boost small creators or stomp them into the ground based on some arbitrary rules they change on a whim. So, grab your favorite snack and let’s break down the double-edged sword of algorithms – they give us exposure but can just as quickly snatch it away!

Takeaways:

• Algorithms can be your best friend, but also your worst enemy, so watch out.
• Knowing your audience is great, but knowing the algorithm is like a second job.
• Instagram's new algorithm favors smaller accounts, but will it actually help? Who knows!
• Content might be king, but the algorithm's the one holding the crown, so please bow.
• If you think you can ignore the algorithm and still thrive, good luck with that!
• Just remember, if the algorithm changes, your content could dry up faster than your last relationship.

Mentioned in this episode:

Ready to start your podcast the right way?

Join the School of Podcasting and get step-by-step courses covering everything from planning and equipment to editing, audience growth, and monetization. Plus, you'll get expert UNLIMITED coaching and a supportive community to guide you every step of the way. Start your podcast with confidence—join today! 👉 SchoolofPodcasting.com

School of Podcasting

So, your podcast isn’t growing, huh? Yeah, it’s like throwing spaghetti at the wall and hoping it sticks, but all you get is a messy wall.

When I was married I bought my wife flowers once a week. You won't believe what she said to me!

Spoiler alert: if you’re not giving them what they want, they’re gonna ghost you faster than a bad date. So, grab your headphones, and let’s get to the bottom of this podcasting conundrum together!

Takeaways:

• Sometimes, taking a break from your podcast can slow your momentum, so be careful.
• If you're putting in a ton of effort but still seeing low numbers, maybe it's time for a change.
• Understanding your audience's wants is key; otherwise, you're just talking to a wall.
• Your podcast can be fun even when the numbers aren't great; focus on that joy instead!
• Don't get too attached to your ideas; switch things up a bit if they're not resonating.
• Feedback is crucial; if you're not getting it, you might miss the point altogether. No feedback IS feedback.

Links referenced in this episode:

• askthepodcastcoach.com
• schoolofpodcasting.com

Mentioned in this episode:

UNLIMITED One-On-One Coaching

Are you struggling to grow your podcast or turn your ideas into a show that stands out? With over 20 years of experience, Hall of Fame podcaster Dave Jackson offers one-on-one coaching designed to fast-track your success. Whether you're launching, refining, or scaling your podcast, Dave cuts through the noise with expert insights, proven strategies, and personalized guidance. Avoid costly mistakes, master your message, and build an engaged audience—without being overwhelmed. Ready to make your podcast impossible to ignore? Let’s make it happen

School of Podcasting

If you're sitting there sweating bullets about diving into the world of podcasting because technology gives you the heebie-jeebies, relax, my friend. The real villain stopping you isn’t the tech; it’s your brain playing tricks on you.

Seriously, we chat about how the fear of technology is just a fancy excuse to avoid trying something new. Trust me, if you turn down the radio when your phone rings, you can totally handle mixing audio for your podcast. It might seem tough at first, but like everything else, it gets easier once you give it a shot.

You've Been Thinking of Starting a Podcast

Ever sat down and thought, "Man, I totally want to start a podcast, but my tech skills are basically at a toddler level?" Yeah, I get it. We've all been there, staring at our devices like they might bite us or something. But here’s the kicker: it’s not the technology that’s holding you back, it’s your brain.

Seriously. In this episode, we dive into the real culprit behind your podcasting fears. It’s not some high-tech wizardry that’s out of your reach; it’s the mindset that says, "I can’t do this." We share some examples, like a client with 40 tabs open on Chrome—because who hasn’t been there? We explore how the fear of tech is often just the fear of trying, and trust me; we’ve got the laughs and the insights to help you kick that fear to the curb. It’s all about realizing that everything seems hard until you actually do it, so let’s get you podcasting, shall we?

Takeaways:

• Don't let technology scare you; you're probably overthinking it—it's simpler than you think!
• If you tried podcasting before and found it hard, give it another shot; things change!
• Being afraid of tech is common, but remember, you learned to tie your shoes, right?
• Everything feels hard until you get the hang of it, so just dive in and start!
• You already mix audio when you turn down the radio for a call; you can podcast!
• Seriously, if you can save a photo in an email, you can upload a podcast episode!

Mentioned in this episode:

Ready to start your podcast the right way?

Join the School of Podcasting and get step-by-step courses covering everything from planning and equipment to editing, audience growth, and monetization. Plus, you'll get expert UNLIMITED coaching and a supportive community to guide you every step of the way. Start your podcast with confidence—join today! 👉 SchoolofPodcasting.com

School of Podcasting

If you’ve ever struggled with promoting yourself or your offerings, I get it—it can feel awkward, even "salesy." But what if you thought of it as a nudge to value instead of just another call to action? In this episode, I dive into why it’s so important to let your audience know about the valuable products and services you provide. I share some personal stories about the mental barriers that often make self-promotion feel uncomfortable and how shifting your mindset can help you better connect with your audience.

As podcasters, understanding self-promotion is key to monetization. And here’s the truth: the most profitable strategy isn’t running ads—it’s selling your own products or services. I share a story about a fellow podcaster who hesitated to promote her speaking engagements, fearing she’d come off as pushy. That hesitation is something I see all the time, especially among creatives who undervalue their own work. That’s why I encourage you to reframe self-promotion—not as selling, but as sharing value. When you make that shift, it becomes easier to talk about what you offer in a way that feels natural and beneficial to your audience.

I also dig into the psychology behind why so many of us avoid self-promotion. No one wants to be seen as aggressive or overly pushy—but here’s the thing: promoting yourself is simply a way of guiding your audience toward something that could help them. I talk about how you can subtly weave your experiences and expertise into your content, creating a natural and relatable narrative that informs your listeners without feeling like an ad.

As I wrap up, I emphasize the importance of having a clear call to action—what I like to call a “nudge to value.” I break down practical ways to integrate this into your episodes, from personal stories to simple shifts in language, so that promoting yourself feels more authentic.

The goal? To help you build trust, foster a stronger community, and ultimately grow your podcast in a way that aligns with your values. If self-promotion has ever felt like a struggle, this episode will give you the confidence and tools to make it work for you—without the sleazy sales tactics.

Takeaways:

• Promoting your own products or services is often the most profitable monetization strategy for podcasters.
• Many podcasters hesitate to self-promote due to fear of sounding salesy or pushy.
• Instead of viewing it as a call to action, consider it a nudge towards value for your audience.
• Self-promotion can be subtle; share stories that naturally illustrate your services without being overt.
• Understanding your audience's needs allows you to create products that genuinely help them.
• Communicating the value you offer to your listeners without feeling uncomfortable is crucial.

Links referenced in this episode:

• schoolofpodcasting.com

Mentioned in this episode:

We Make Good Shows Better - Your Audience Will Thank You

PodcastHotSeat.com is the ultimate coaching experience for podcasters who want actionable feedback to take their show to the next level. Whether you want to refine your content, improve audience engagement, or enhance your production quality, the Podcast Hot Seat provides expert insights and a supportive environment to help you grow. Join the hot seat and watch your podcast thrive!

Podcas Hot Seat

Is it worth starting a podcast in 2025? Dave Jackson dives into this question, addressing common concerns about the podcasting landscape and whether it remains a viable medium. He emphasizes that despite the increase in podcasts and competition, the audience for podcasts continues to grow yearly.

Drawing an analogy to college football, he illustrates that passion and the desire to share a message are key motivators for many podcasters, regardless of the competitive environment. Jackson also highlights that monetization is not the only goal; many creators start podcasts simply to express their creativity and connect with others. For those considering podcasting, he stresses the importance of understanding your "why" and "who" to build a meaningful and engaged audience.

Making it in the NFL

The odds of a football player making it to the NFL are extremely low. Only about 1.6% of college football players make it to the NFL2. For high school players, the chances are even slimmer, with only about 0.00075% (or roughly 1 in 133,333) of high school football players eventually making it to the NFL6.

To break it down further:

About 7.3% of high school players go on to play college football.

Of those college players, only 1.2% get drafted to the NFL.

Even for highly-rated recruits, the odds are challenging:

Five-star recruits have about a 50% chance of being drafted.

A 5-star recruit has a 39% chance of "sticking" in the league.

These statistics highlight the extreme competitiveness and selectivity of professional football, emphasizing that making it to the NFL is a rare achievement that requires exceptional skill, dedication, and often a bit of luck

Takeaways:

• Podcasting continues to grow every year, with millions of listeners in the U.S. alone.
• Just because podcasting seems crowded, it doesn't mean there isn't room for new voices.
• People often start podcasts not to make money but to share their passions and creativity.
• Understanding your audience is crucial—monetizing a podcast means monetizing your audience.
• Even successful podcasters initially started because they enjoyed discussing their topics and connecting with others.
• The competitive landscape of podcasting is much less daunting compared to platforms like YouTube.

Mentioned in this episode:

We Make Good Shows Better - Your Audience Will Thank You

PodcastHotSeat.com is the ultimate coaching experience for podcasters who want actionable feedback to take their show to the next level. Whether you want to refine your content, improve audience engagement, or enhance your production quality, the Podcast Hot Seat provides expert insights and a supportive environment to help you grow. Join the hot seat and watch your podcast thrive!

Podcas Hot Seat

Should you put your audio podcast on YouTube? The answer, as Dave Jackson explains, is a resounding yes if you’re not currently utilizing the platform. With YouTube being the second largest search engine, it offers a valuable opportunity for podcasters to expand their audience without any significant investment of time or resources. Even if you have an audio podcast, uploading it to YouTube can lead to greater visibility and potential growth, thanks to the YouTube algorithm's recommendation engine. However, if you already have a YouTube channel with video content, it's best to create a separate channel for your audio podcast to keep your content organized and to accurately assess its performance. Join Dave as he shares insights on maximizing your podcast's reach and the importance of adapting to new platforms.

Takeaways:

• Putting your audio podcast on YouTube can increase your visibility and audience reach.
• It's important to separate your audio podcast content from any existing video content on YouTube.
• Using your RSS feed to create a YouTube channel takes only about five minutes.
• YouTube is a powerful search engine that can help people discover your podcast.
• The YouTube algorithm can boost your content, but it can also be unpredictable.
• Creating a second channel for your audio podcast allows for better analytics and audience tracking.

Mentioned in this episode:

We Make Good Shows Better - Your Audience Will Thank You

PodcastHotSeat.com is the ultimate coaching experience for podcasters who want actionable feedback to take their show to the next level. Whether you want to refine your content, improve audience engagement, or enhance your production quality, the Podcast Hot Seat provides expert insights and a supportive environment to help you grow. Join the hot seat and watch your podcast thrive!

Podcas Hot Seat

Starting a corporate podcast can be a daunting task, and one of the biggest mistakes you can make is choosing a host who isn't fully committed to the project.

The importance of selecting a passionate host who understands the podcast is a company initiative, not a personal platform. He shares valuable insights from his extensive experience in the podcasting industry, highlighting the need for a shared email account for access and continuity, and the significance of defining a clear purpose for the podcast.

Organizations risk viewing it as an expendable expense during tough times without a strong reason for starting the podcast. I also discusses tracking the podcast's effectiveness, ensuring it serves its intended audience and objectives.

Takeaways:

• It's crucial to select a podcast host who genuinely wants to participate in the project.
• Ensure that all podcast services are registered with a generic company email for access.
• Identify a clear purpose for starting the podcast beyond just following trends.
• Involve multiple team members in the podcast to avoid dependence on a single host.
• Track podcast effectiveness with measurable goals to justify its continuation during tough times.
• Avoid making the podcast feel like a commercial; focus on delivering value to the listeners.

Mentioned in this episode:

UNLIMITED One-On-One Coaching

Are you struggling to grow your podcast or turn your ideas into a show that stands out? With over 20 years of experience, Hall of Fame podcaster Dave Jackson offers one-on-one coaching designed to fast-track your success. Whether you're launching, refining, or scaling your podcast, Dave cuts through the noise with expert insights, proven strategies, and personalized guidance. Avoid costly mistakes, master your message, and build an engaged audience—without being overwhelmed. Ready to make your podcast impossible to ignore? Let’s make it happen

School of Podcasting

NotebookLM is a new AI tool that allows users to upload PDFs and generate podcast content, raising questions about the role of AI in the podcasting world.

Dave Jackson shares his insights on this technology, discussing both its potential benefits and drawbacks. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity and personal input in podcasting, warning against relying solely on AI for content creation.

While acknowledging the convenience of tools like NotebookLM, he stresses that true thought leadership comes from original ideas and personal experiences. Dave also highlights the value of using AI as an assistant rather than a creator, advocating for a balanced approach that maintains the unique voice of the podcaster.

Takeaways:

• NotebookLM allows users to upload PDFs and generate podcasts, showcasing the capabilities of AI.
• While AI can assist in creating content, authentic personal input remains crucial for successful podcasting.
• Using AI in podcasting raises questions about originality and the potential for automated content.
• AI-generated content may be efficient, but it often lacks the unique voice that audiences appreciate.
• Dave emphasizes the importance of authenticity in content creation, especially for podcasting.
• AI tools should be used as assistants to enhance creativity rather than replace human effort.

Mentioned in this episode:

We Make Good Shows Better - Your Audience Will Thank You

PodcastHotSeat.com is the ultimate coaching experience for podcasters who want actionable feedback to take their show to the next level. Whether you want to refine your content, improve audience engagement, or enhance your production quality, the Podcast Hot Seat provides expert insights and a supportive environment to help you grow. Join the hot seat and watch your podcast thrive!

Podcas Hot Seat

Staying consistent with your podcast content is crucial for meeting your audience's expectations and fostering loyalty. Dave Jackson emphasizes the importance of sticking to a winning formula, much like the predictability of a Hallmark movie that audiences know and love. As he shares insights from his extensive experience in podcasting, he highlights how familiarity can create a warm and cozy feeling for listeners, making them more likely to return. By avoiding drastic changes once your show starts to gain traction, you can maintain that connection with your audience and continue to deliver what they love. Tune in as Dave explores examples from music and film to illustrate the benefits of consistency in content creation.

Takeaways:

• Consistency in your podcasting content keeps your audience engaged and fulfilled.
• When you find a winning podcast formula, stick with it and avoid unnecessary changes.
• Just like Hallmark movies, predictable content can create a comforting experience for listeners.
• Understanding your audience's expectations is crucial for maintaining and growing your podcast.
• Changing your podcast format too often can lead to losing loyal listeners who want consistency.
• Embrace the familiar aspects of your show, as they create a sense of safety for your audience.

Links referenced in this episode:

• schoolofpodcasting.com/start
• podcasthotseat.com

Mentioned in this episode:

We Make Good Shows Better - Your Audience Will Thank You

PodcastHotSeat.com is the ultimate coaching experience for podcasters who want actionable feedback to take their show to the next level. Whether you want to refine your content, improve audience engagement, or enhance your production quality, the Podcast Hot Seat provides expert insights and a supportive environment to help you grow. Join the hot seat and watch your podcast thrive!

Podcas Hot Seat