School of Podcasting
Dave Jackson
Established in 2005 if you want to learn about podcasting this is the show for you. It's been described by many as the most entertaining and unique of all the "Podcast About Podcasting." Dave Jackson gets to the point and talks about podcasting. We discuss ways to plan a successful launch that will get you ranking high in iTunes, finding the best gear on a budget, developing content that leaves people wanting more. He has been helping people understand technology and has been called "The Analogy King." His style is "edutainment" and you will always walk away with useful knowledge and insights. Dave Jackson is the original, and if you don't like the first episode you hear - give him two more and he'll change your mind.
- 43 minutes 29 secondsLavalier Shootout - Weighing the Lift of Apple HLS
In this episode, I take you behind the scenes of a good old fashioned microphone shootout—this time, it’s all about wireless lavalier mics! I (quickly) run through a lineup of wireless lavalier microphones including the DJI Mic Mini, Hollyland Lark M2, Rode Wireless Micro, Rode Wireless Go, and Shure Move Mic. Not only do I compare how they sound right out of the box, but I also show how a little post production can level the playing field between even budget and premium options. If you’ve ever wondered whether it matters which one you pick, you’ll definitely want to listen.
This content may contain affiliate links, meaning I earn a small commission if you purchase through these links at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products or services I trust and believe will provide value to you. Thank you for your support!
The Weight Of Adding Video - The First Look at Apple HLS
The second big theme of today’s show is the pressure, and potential pitfalls, of adding video to your podcasting workflow. I break down what’s happening with Apple HLS video, what hosts like Captivate are charging, and why you need to seriously consider the “weight” video adds before taking the plunge.
Getting Your Edited Audio To People In Apple - You Can't (If you add video)
Can you maintain your audio quality? Should you be editing audio and video together, or keeping them separate? I also share some spot-on advice from Elsie Escobar about only adding video if it makes sense for your goals—not because you feel FOMO or outside pressure.
Whether you’re mic shopping, contemplating a shift to video, or just want a sanity check on your podcasting process, this episode is for you. Enjoy!
Gear Mentioned In This Episode
Other Items
Accentize Plugins (DeRoom, Revive)
The 22 Immutable Laws of Marketing (specifically, the "Law of Category" chapter)
1000 True Fans by Kevin Kelley
Captivate Webinar on Apple HLS Implementation
New Media Show Rob Greenlee with Sharon Taylor
David Draiman | The Magnificent Others with Billy Corgan
Justin Jackson Apple Podcasts Demo
Mentioned in this episode:
Live Appearances
I will be at the Empower Podcasting Conference (Year 3!) in Charlotte North Carolina. This is my favorite type of conference with a cap at 250 people, it's a great crowd without being overwhelming. Great speakers, great networking, and a great location.
Get Some Feedback On Your Show
“Want honest, helpful feedback on your podcast? At the School of Podcasting, we host ‘Listening Parties’ where members share short clips and get constructive, encouraging critiques from fellow podcasters and myself. It’s a safe, supportive way to hear what’s working, fix what’s not, and make your show stronger fast.”
Question of the Month: The Future of Podcasting
Someone asked me, and I had to think about it. So now I'm asking you, How do you feel about the future of podcasting? Where do you think it's going? (etc,). Feel free to share your opinion and why. Don't forget to tell us about your show and where we can find it.
Give Your Podcast A Home
When you look at our podcasting pieces, your media host is the engine. But your website is the home. It’s where your audience learns who you are, explores your episodes, and decides to subscribe. At Podpage, we build podcast websites that are fast, reliable, and designed to convert visitors into listeners. Every episode is automatically published, SEO-optimized, and structured for growth—so you can focus on creating, not managing your site. If your media host powers your podcast, Podpage gives it a place to live—and a place to grow. Start building your podcast’s home with Podpage by going to www.podpage.com/preview and start your 14 day free trial today.
20 April 2026, 4:00 am - 45 minutes 6 secondsHow to Turn Your Podcast Into Passive Income (With Tools I Actually Use)
Welcome to this episode of the School of Podcasting! I’m Dave Jackson, and today I’m pulling back the curtain on the precise tools and strategies I personally use for affiliate marketing on my podcast. Whether you’re brand new to monetizing, or just looking to add another income stream, you’ll find this episode packed with actionable advice and real-world numbers.
What I Cover in This Episode
- How affiliate marketing works and why you don’t need a massive audience to benefit
- Real comparisons between ad revenue and affiliate commissions—including how I made $51 per 1,000 downloads promoting Chronometer
- Why finding the right product for your specific audience trumps audience size every time
- How I save time, track, and update my affiliate links with tools like Switchy, Genius Link, and TextExpander
- The nightmare that is Amazon’s terms of service (and how to avoid getting banned)
- A quick walkthrough of getting approved for affiliate programs, even with a smaller show
- How to place and talk about affiliate links for maximum return
Tools, Companies & Resources I Mentioned
Here’s a list of all companies, tools, and platforms I talked about in this episode, along with URLs where applicable:
- School of Podcasting
- schoolofpodcasting.com
- Chronometer (the calorie tracking app)
- Switchy – My go-to for creating, tracking, and managing affiliate links (Available on AppSumo as one-time purchase)
- Genius Link – For multi-storefront affiliate management, especially for Amazon and international sales
- TextExpander – Saves time by expanding keystrokes into text and links
- 1Password – My recommended password management tool for affiliate accounts
- Amazon Associates – Amazon’s Affiliate Program
- Sweetwater – For gear links; includes an affiliate program
- Podpage – For website and link management (and affiliate program info), and where I work as Head of Podcasting
- Ask the Podcast Coach – My live Q&A show
- Captivate – Podcast hosting (with affiliate program)
- Blubrry – Podcast hosting (with affiliate program)
- Buzzsprout – Podcast hosting (with affiliate program)
- Transistor – Podcast hosting (with affiliate program)
- RSS.com – Podcast hosting (with affiliate program)
Affiliate Marketplaces I Use and Mentioned:
- Awin (formerly Shareasale): awin.com
- CJ (Commission Junction): cj.com
- Rakuten: rakuten.com
- Partnerstack: partnerstack.com
Other Resources
- Profit From Your Podcast Book – My book on podcast monetization (Amazon and audio options).
- School of Podcasting Free Resources – Where you can find my full list of affiliate links.
- Jesse Lakes on Profit From Your Podcast
- 9 Reasons Affiliates Get Banned from Amazon (How to Avoid)
Final Takeaways
- Affiliate marketing isn’t “get-rich-quick,” but it’s a valuable stream—even if it just covers your hosting bill and some extras!
- Use tools like Switchy or Genius Link to keep your links organized, tracked, and up-to-date.
- Always disclose your affiliate relationships up front, per FTC guidelines.
- If you mention a company on your podcast or in your show notes, tag them on social—sometimes they’ll amplify your reach!
If you’ve got an idea for an episode or want to leave feedback, head to schoolofpodcasting.com/voicemail.
Thanks for tuning in! If this helped you, please share the episode or link a friend to schoolofpodcasting.com/1031.
Mentioned in this episode:
Join the #1 Podcast Education Site - The School of Podcasting
Adam Curry is the co-founder of Podcasting (and the co-host of the No Agenda Show). When asked about learning how to podcast Adam said, "The place to go with the guy who has taught more people how to podcast than anybody I know - Dave Jackson, School of Podcasting.com"
Question of the Month: The Future of Podcasting
Someone asked me, and I had to think about it. So now I'm asking you, How do you feel about the future of podcasting? Where do you think it's going? (etc,). Feel free to share your opinion and why. Don't forget to tell us about your show and where we can find it.
Give Your Podcast A Home
When you look at our podcasting pieces, your media host is the engine. But your website is the home. It’s where your audience learns who you are, explores your episodes, and decides to subscribe. At Podpage, we build podcast websites that are fast, reliable, and designed to convert visitors into listeners. Every episode is automatically published, SEO-optimized, and structured for growth—so you can focus on creating, not managing your site. If your media host powers your podcast, Podpage gives it a place to live—and a place to grow. Start building your podcast’s home with Podpage by going to www.podpage.com/preview and start your 14 day free trial today.
Live Appearances
I will be at the Empower Podcasting Conference (Year 3!) in Charlotte North Carolina. This is my favorite type of conference with a cap at 250 people, it's a great crowd without being overwhelming. Great speakers, great networking, and a great location.
Unlock Exclusive Insights: Subscribe to 'Podcasting Observations' Newsletter!
Get a look into the world of podcasting like never before with "Podcasting Observations," your go-to source for trends, tips, and transformative insights tailored just for podcasters. You also get "behind the scenes" info from the School of Podcasting Don't miss out on staying ahead of the game—join the 1700+ people who are already reading Podcasting Observations today!
13 April 2026, 4:00 am - 46 minutes 20 secondsFrom Listeners to Advocates: The Magic of True Fans
Have you ever wondered if the reason your podcast hasn’t “exploded” is actually the very thing that could help it last—and make it more rewarding? This week, I look into why having a smaller, passionate, and loyal audience often leads to more meaningful wins (personally and professionally) than simply racking up big download numbers.
If you want to learn how to create enduring engagement, avoid common pitfalls, and connect with listeners in a way that actually matters, this episode is for you.
Here’s what I cover in this week’s “Podcast Stew” styled episode (which includes chapters).
1000 True Fans
- Why a “thousand true fans” might just be your biggest business advantage (and how focusing on your core audience beats chasing the casual crowd).
- Lessons from YouTube experts (Rocks Codes, Stephen Bartlett, Mr. Beast, Marques Brownlee) on where to put your energy if you want to succeed, and the role thumbnails, titles, and discovery play in growth
- My thoughts on competing with “the big guys” - what you should (and shouldn’t) compare against, and why joy matters
- Independent vs. networked podcasting: Candid stories from the Young and Profiting team, the Midas Touch podcast, and why control is crucial
- The truth about monetization—when is the right time (and why “3% conversion” is the real number to expect)
- Behind the curtain of podcast business stats: Lessons from Goal Hanger, ad revenue, and memberships
- Platform realities: Spotify’s “walled garden,” why I recommend “anybody but Spotify” for hosting, and insights from James Cridland at Podnews
- The importance of fun and fulfillment: advice from LeBron James and Charlie Puth on why loving the work is the true engine for longevity
- How to effectively use calls-to-action: Taking lessons from an Audible ad in “Project Hail Mary” and why going “deeper” with your fans matters
Links mentioned this week:
How to Pitch a Podcast Show (Coming Soon!).
Whether you’re launching, growing, or just rethinking your show’s direction, this episode is packed with honest stories and actionable advice, plus a dash of inspiration to help you stay true to your voice and audience. As always, if you want to go deeper, join the free School of Podcasting
Thanks for listening! Don’t forget to share with a friend who needs a reminder that influence starts with true connection.
Mentioned in This Show
Oxford Road The Media Roundtable Episode
Sound Off Podcast (Matt Cundill interviews Doug Downs)
Why MKBHD Told Netflix: "Don't Bother on Jon Youshaei channel
What Podcasting Can Learn From YouTube Growth with Rox Codes (Podbiz with Norma Jean Belenky)
Lisa Kudrow on Vanity Fair Channel
Sounds Profitable The Download
James Cridland on Spotify's Features "Coming Soon."
Jordan Harbinger Talks YouTube on New Media Show with Rob Greenlee
Charlie Puth on Rick Beato Channel
Audible (aff link)
Mentioned in this episode:
See Your Show On Podpage
If you host a podcast, your website should work as hard as your episodes do. At Podpage, we automatically create a beautiful, professional site for your show — complete with episode pages, transcripts, audio players, SEO optimization, and built-in tools to grow your audience. No design work. No plugins. No ongoing maintenance. In less than a minute, you can see exactly what your podcast would look like on Podpage. Go to podpage.com/preview and generate your free preview site now. (No Credit Card Required) See your show the way it should look.
Question of the Month: The Future of Podcasting
Someone asked me, and I had to think about it. So now I'm asking you, How do you feel about the future of podcasting? Where do you think it's going? (etc,). Feel free to share your opinion and why. Don't forget to tell us about your show and where we can find it.
Live Appearances
I will be at the Empower Podcasting Conference (Year 3!) in Charlotte North Carolina. This is my favorite type of conference with a cap at 250 people, it's a great crowd without being overwhelming. Great speakers, great networking, and a great location.
Join the School of Podcasting Today - Your Future Self Will Thank You
Stepping out of your comfort zone isn't easy, but at the School of Podcasting, we're here to make it feel like second nature. With our expertly crafted courses and an incredible community, you're never alone in your journey. From planning and launching to growing your podcast, I’ll be right by your side every step of the way. Remember, every podcast episode builds connections and opens doors to future opportunities. Take action today, and let your future self reap the rewards.
6 April 2026, 4:00 am - 44 minutes 11 secondsStop Pushing Listeners Away: The Biggest Podcasting Pet Peeves (and How to Fix Them)
If listeners are quitting your podcast in the first five minutes, this episode is for you. In this annual ‘podcast pet peeves’ roundup, I asked my audience what makes them bail on a show— and they did not hold back.
Participants
You’ll hear from Kim Newlove (The Pharmacist’s Voice, Perrysburg Podcast), Steve Stewart (podcast editor extraordinaire), Todd ‘the Gator’ (Guardian Down Roundtable, Lessons in the Rear View), and York (Welcome to Earth Stories) as they unpack the habits that drive them nuts: from bad audio and buried leads to ad overload, lazy interview questions, sloppy terminology, and more.
You’ll walk away knowing exactly what turns listeners off - and how to fix it. I’ll also share my own take on ads, monetization, and why a little creativity can still set your show apart in 2026
The Most Popular Pet Peeves
- Too many/poorly placed ads (especially mid-roll and early heavy ad blocks)
- Not getting to the point / burying the lead / unclear episode direction
- Lack of preparation (hosts winging it, talking in circles, not prepping guests)
- Sloppy language and terminology (“podcast” vs “episode,” “podcasting” vs “podcasts,” RSS vs not)
- Wasting listener time with meta-chatter, overlong intros, and “Tell me about yourself” questions
I do this question every year, and as you might imagine, this list doesn't change much. This year seems like advertisements were the top peeve.
Is Everyone Going to use the "YouTube Annoying Your Audience to Death" strategy, and use tools like Supercast and Patreon, and offer an ad-free version?
Mentioned In This Episode
Podcasting Observations (Dave's Newsletter)
School of Podcasting Follow Page
Mentioned in this episode:
Get Some Feedback On Your Show
“Want honest, helpful feedback on your podcast? At the School of Podcasting, we host ‘Listening Parties’ where members share short clips and get constructive, encouraging critiques from fellow podcasters and myself. It’s a safe, supportive way to hear what’s working, fix what’s not, and make your show stronger fast.”
Question of the Month: The Future of Podcasting
Someone asked me, and I had to think about it. So now I'm asking you, How do you feel about the future of podcasting? Where do you think it's going? (etc,). Feel free to share your opinion and why. Don't forget to tell us about your show and where we can find it.
Give Your Podcast A Home
When you look at our podcasting pieces, your media host is the engine. But your website is the home. It’s where your audience learns who you are, explores your episodes, and decides to subscribe. At Podpage, we build podcast websites that are fast, reliable, and designed to convert visitors into listeners. Every episode is automatically published, SEO-optimized, and structured for growth—so you can focus on creating, not managing your site. If your media host powers your podcast, Podpage gives it a place to live—and a place to grow. Start building your podcast’s home with Podpage by going to www.podpage.com/preview and start your 14 day free trial today.
30 March 2026, 4:00 am - 41 minutes 4 secondsSchool of Podcasting's Big News with Podpage
The School of Podcasting has been acquired, and yes, that means changes are coming. But don’t panic! The essence of what we do is staying intact. We’re diving into the nitty-gritty of what this acquisition means for our loyal members and anyone thinking about joining.
New Free Tier
We’re adding a free tier, more courses, and even a way for you to connect with podcasting experts. This is all about making the podcasting journey smoother and more accessible for everyone.
Brenden and I have a vision for the future, and it’s about empowering you to take your podcasting game to the next level. If you’ve ever wanted to launch a podcast, or if you’re already knee-deep in it and looking for ways to monetize, we’ve got you covered. We’re building a community where you can learn, grow, and thrive, and I’m more excited than ever to be a part of your podcasting journey.
So, let’s get to work and see what we can do together!
My Favorite CRM
I'm not making this up. My favorite CRM is call "Less Annoying CRM. Its s a simple, no-frills customer relationship management tool built specifically for small businesses, solopreneurs, and anyone who feels overwhelmed by complex CRMs. It focuses on the essentials: tracking contacts, managing leads, organizing tasks, and keeping a clear sales pipeline (although I don't use the pipleline tool)
Takeaways:
- This week, we celebrated the acquisition of the School of Podcasting by PodPage, which is a huge deal.
- I went from living in my brother's basement after a divorce to running a successful podcasting business, talk about an upgrade.
- Relationships are key in podcasting; it's wild how many people you meet that can help you out.
- We’re excited to expand the School of Podcasting, bringing more courses and experts for everyone to learn from.
- This merger means more time and resources to create better content for our community, so stay tuned!
- Don't worry, if you’re already a member, nothing changes except for more value coming your way!
Links referenced in this episode:
- schoolofpodcasting.com
- podpage.com
- podnews.net
- Less Annoying CRM
- Last week's episode on Podcasting SEO
- PodSEO
- Heartbeat - Community and Courses Platform
Mentioned in this episode:
Unlock Exclusive Insights: Subscribe to 'Podcasting Observations' Newsletter!
Get a look into the world of podcasting like never before with "Podcasting Observations," your go-to source for trends, tips, and transformative insights tailored just for podcasters. You also get "behind the scenes" info from the School of Podcasting Don't miss out on staying ahead of the game—join the 1700+ people who are already reading Podcasting Observations today!
Question of the Month: The Future of Podcasting
Someone asked me, and I had to think about it. So now I'm asking you, How do you feel about the future of podcasting? Where do you think it's going? (etc,). Feel free to share your opinion and why. Don't forget to tell us about your show and where we can find it.
Quit Thinking About It and START THAT PODCAST
If you have ever turned down the radio to hear your phone in the car, you know how to mix audio. If you have ever attached a photo to an email, you know how to upload an mp3 to a media host. Deleting text in Word is the same as delete audio in audacity. Yes, there is a learning curve but it's not as scary as you think. I'll be there the whole way, and you can join worry free with a 30 day money-back guarantee. Go to schoolofpodcasting.com/join
See Your Show On Podpage
If you host a podcast, your website should work as hard as your episodes do. At Podpage, we automatically create a beautiful, professional site for your show — complete with episode pages, transcripts, audio players, SEO optimization, and built-in tools to grow your audience. No design work. No plugins. No ongoing maintenance. In less than a minute, you can see exactly what your podcast would look like on Podpage. Go to podpage.com/preview and generate your free preview site now. (No Credit Card Required) See your show the way it should look.
23 March 2026, 4:00 am - 55 minutes 56 secondsHow to Grow Your Podcast Audience with SEO and Keywords
When it comes to podcast strategies to grow your podcast, one strategy that often gets overlooked (because it takes time) is Search Engine Optimization (SEO). Now people are starting to market a "New" thing known as PSO (Podcast Search Optimization).
Podcast Search Optimization VS Search Engine Optimization
So what is the difference? In reality not much. Tools like Podseo and PSO and Ausha show you information on how often keywords are being search in Apple and Spotify (and others). SEO tools show what people are searching for in Google and other places (YouTube, TikTok, and more).
So THE question is, do people search differently in a Podcast App vs how they search Google? For me, I don't think so. I might just type a keyword "Podcasting Best Practices" where in Google I would type "Podcasting Best Practices Podcast."
Keyword Research Boils Dow To This
Find a keyword that has a fair number of people searching for (somewhere between 20-100 searches), and see how much competition it has. Instead of trying to score for a really popular keyword, score multiple times with less popular (but still be sought after) key words with less competition. Mom said "Don't go play in traffic," but that's what you need to do - but no on the free way.
What is Your Domain Authority?
SEMRush (a great suite of tools) has a domain authority checker.
Tools To Boost Your Podcast SEO on the Web
Free Keyword Tool (That Sucks IMHO)
https://www.wordstream.com/keywords
Google Keyword Tool (Inside of Adsense Account)
Go to Tools > Planning > Keyword Planner (Free and unlimited use)
Keywords Everywhere
Extension for Chrome and Firefox $7/month. Helps you measure traffic and competition for keywords.
https://keywordseverywhere.com/
Also Asked (see what people are asking)
1 Free search a Day or $12/month
Answer Socrates
3 searches a day
$15/month gets you 100 searches a month
Ubsersuggest
Shows key word competition and more. It's a suite of tools to help find keywords, and write articles.$29/month.$290 Lifetime (credits thanks to AI)
SERanking
A full suite of tools that helps you create content, competitor comparisons and more. $129/month
SEMRUSH
Consider by many people to be "THE" suite of SEO tools (especially finding tools that your competitor is not using, and you should). $139/month
Page Audit Chrome Extension
A chrome extension that shows all sorts of information about a page so you can then write a similar page that will rank better.
Two Tools Dedicated For Podcast SEO
While I'm not sure there is much difference between SEO and PSO, there two tools dedicated for podcasts.
PSO from Ausha
This tool has some nice features, but it also left me frustrated. If you give me seven days to test the tool, give me access to ALL OF IT. I mean every marketer knows that you give it to the customer and let them "get hooked" so when their trial is over they will purchase.
I couldn't do that as much of the tools spotlighted required me to upgrade. Boo.
That being said it does show how much a keyword is searched for (not as specific as some tools for web seo). It also shows you how hard to competition is.
Keep in mind that you need to give your dashboard 24 hours to show some statistics in your dashboard.
Ausha PSO (affiliate)
PodSEO
This is from Andrea De Marsi (Co-founder of Spreaker) and Francesco Baschieri (Co-founder of Spreaker) and it has a similar feature set to the ausha tool.
You can save 10% using the coupon schoolofpodcasting. (affiliate)
I thought it was very cool that Podseo alerted me to the mistake that I had accidentally listed my show twice in Spotify (I moved from Libsyn to Captivate - nuff said).
It has some cool episode planners, and is cheaper than Ausha PSO. Their AI tools looks at your episodes and recommend future ideas and then helps you plan them, and has a calendar showing when the episodes were released.
They also can send you daily updates on your rankings or your competition.
Check it out at podseo.com and use the coupon schoolofpodcasting to save 10%
Because of My Podcast: Paul Colligan
Paul is a huge theater nerd, and loves the musical Chess. There was a version that was awful, but never got to see it. Then he let a library in NYC know he was a podcaster. Then he got access to videos that the public hasn't seen - because he had a podcast. Check out Paul at https://podcastpartnership.com/
Other Items Mentioned
Turn AI Into Your Personal Podcast Analyst! on Buzzcast
SEO for People Who Don't Like SEO Podcast
Podpage - Websites for Podcasters
Captivate - AI Tools Help You Choose Episode Topics
Oura Ring - Body Measurement via a Ring
Just One Tip Podcast
Big Lash Interview on Last Week's Episode
This content may contain affiliate links, meaning I earn a small commission if you purchase through these links at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products or services I trust and believe will provide value to you. Thank you for your support!
Mentioned in this episode:
Question of the Month: The Future of Podcasting
Someone asked me, and I had to think about it. So now I'm asking you, How do you feel about the future of podcasting? Where do you think it's going? (etc,). Feel free to share your opinion and why. Don't forget to tell us about your show and where we can find it.
Want to Make Some Money with Your Podcast?
Pick up any book on podcast monetization, and you will find 90 percent of it only covers how to launch a podcast. If you already have a podcast, you have that information; you’re ready for the next step. Profit from Your Podcast provides top strategies and real-life examples of podcast monetization. This book is more than what to do. It also tells you how to do it. Go to www.profitfromyourpodcast.com/book
15 March 2026, 4:00 am - 53 minutesBig Lash Energy: One Million Downloads Fueled by Coffee and Compliments
Welcome to the world of Big Lash Energy, where Jayna Marie takes us on a no-holds-barred journey through the ups and downs of her life and career. As a makeup artist, Jayna decided that her life was too colorful not to share, and she jumped headfirst into podcasting.
It's like she hit the ground running, with tons of awards, 200 episodes, and one million downloads you might say she's unstoppable.
Do You Need a Video Podcast?
The conversation kicks off with Jayna reflecting on the pressure to include video in her podcasting journey, but she confidently asserts that real connection comes from authentic storytelling, not flashy visuals. It’s refreshing to hear someone challenge the norm and embrace the art of audio storytelling.
As the episode unfolds, Jayna shares her experiences with vulnerability, especially in her first episode, where she bared her soul and laid it all on the line. She describes it as feeling like she jumped off a cliff, and honestly, who hasn’t felt that way about sharing their truth? This episode dives into the nitty-gritty of her life, tackling topics that range from relationships to personal growth, all while maintaining a sense of humor that makes you feel like you're chatting with a friend over coffee.
Always Be Entertaining
Jayna emphasizes the importance of being relatable and not shying away from difficult topics, making for a conversation that is both entertaining and enlightening. What really makes Jayna stand out is her approach to audience engagement.
She’s built a loyal following by sharing snippets of her life and encouraging conversations around her podcast episodes. Jayna is all about creating that connection with her listeners, which is a breath of fresh air in a sea of cookie-cutter AI content. And let’s not forget her unique marketing tactics; she even uses dating apps to promote her podcast, turning the world of swiping into a strategic move for gaining listeners. It’s hilarious and clever, showing us that sometimes, the best marketing is just being yourself.
The Power of Being Authentic
This episode isn’t just about podcasting; it’s about authenticity, vulnerability, and the power of storytelling. If you’re looking for inspiration in your own podcasting journey, or just want a good laugh, tune in to hear Jayna Marie's incredible story and the lessons she’s learned along the way.
So whether you're a seasoned podcaster or just curious about what it takes to create a meaningful show, Jayna's insights are golden. She proves that podcasting is more than just a hobby; it’s a way to connect, share, and inspire others through your unique voice. Join us as we delve into the world of Big Lash Energy and discover what makes Jayna Marie a standout in the podcasting community. It's a wild ride, and you won't want to miss it.
Mentioned In This Episode
Under the Makeup: A very Messy Life (Episode 1)
8 Super Annoying Things That Men Do
I Ran Out Of Time To Say I Love You: It's My Party, I'll Cry If I Want To (her latest episode as of this recording)
Jayna's Makeup Site & Instagram
Sticker Mule (For Car Decals)
Switchy QR Maker, Link Tracker, and "Linktree" type tool
Fourth Wall Create Merch
Podpage Pretty Websites For Podcasters Who Don't Want To Learn How To Code
Tim Wohlberg's Just the Tip Podcast
Podcasting Tips From Jayna Marie:
Lead with vulnerability and authenticity
Sharing your true self and personal stories draws in listeners and forges real connections.
Serve your audience with purpose
Focus on providing value for others and fill gaps you wish someone had filled for you.
Don’t overthink—trust your gut and put your work out there
Creativity thrives when you let go of perfectionism and follow your instincts.
Make sure every episode has a clear purpose
Aim for your episodes to make listeners laugh, cry, or learn—give them a reason to engage.
Prioritize storytelling and strong writing
Compelling, well-crafted stories are at the heart of a great podcast.
Break up solo shows with production elements
Use sound effects, music, and character voices to keep solo episodes interesting and dynamic.
Collaborate closely with your editor
Build a strong partnership for creative sound design and production ideas.
Release episodes on a consistent schedule
Consistency builds trust and keeps your audience coming back.
Build and engage a community
Foster relationships with listeners to create fierce loyalty and word-of-mouth promotion.
Be intentional about monetization and ads
Consider whether monetizing with ads fits your brand and your listeners’ experience.
Leverage your podcast to support your main business
Use your show to help connect with potential clients in your field.
Save and revisit listener feedback
Keep encouraging messages for motivation during challenging times.
Create desirable merch—only sell what you’d wear
Strong branding and personal endorsement make merchandise more appealing.
Be creative with your marketing strategies:
Utilize unconventional ideas, such as:
Sharing your podcast link in dating bios
Setting up at relevant trade shows
Distributing podcast cards in swag bags with recommended episodes
Branding your car with podcast info and QR codes
Track your promotional results
Use QR codes to measure the effectiveness of your offline marketing efforts.
Encourage value-for-value support
Make it easy for loyal listeners to give back, whether buying merch or donating.
Host in-person events for your audience
Create memorable live gatherings to deepen connections and increase social media buzz.
Promote episodes long after release with social posts
Share throwbacks, listener DMs, and topical connections on your stories to boost ongoing downloads.
Show your creative process on social media
Build anticipation for new episodes and keep your audience actively engaged.
Know your target audience and stay on-brand
Be clear about who your podcast is for, and let that clarity reflect in your branding.
Prepare thoroughly before launching
Study podcasting fundamentals, plan your content, and understand your desired audience.
Don’t share every story—wait until you know the lesson
Only open up about painful moments when you’re ready to share how you grew from them.
Understand podcasting is hard work—stay motivated
Celebrate the impact you have, and let your listeners’ appreciation keep you going
Always Research Your Guest (from Dave)
The question AI gave me to interview Jayna were nothing compared to the questions that came up after I listened to her show.
Mentioned in this episode:
See Your Show On Podpage
If you host a podcast, your website should work as hard as your episodes do. At Podpage, we automatically create a beautiful, professional site for your show — complete with episode pages, transcripts, audio players, SEO optimization, and built-in tools to grow your audience. No design work. No plugins. No ongoing maintenance. In less than a minute, you can see exactly what your podcast would look like on Podpage. Go to podpage.com/preview and generate your free preview site now. (No Credit Card Required) See your show the way it should look.
Question of the Month: The Future of Podcasting
Someone asked me, and I had to think about it. So now I'm asking you, How do you feel about the future of podcasting? Where do you think it's going? (etc,). Feel free to share your opinion and why. Don't forget to tell us about your show and where we can find it.
Worry Free Podcasting
Are you ready to take your podcasting dreams to the next level? Look no further than the School of Podcasting. With over 19 years of experience, I’ve helped countless individuals plan, launch, grow, and monetize their podcasts the right way. My comprehensive courses cover everything from content creation to tackling technology, ensuring you sound professional and confident. Join our supportive community of podcasters, access weekly group coaching, and receive unlimited one-on-one consulting. Don't let fear hold you back. With my 30-day money-back guarantee, you can start your podcasting journey risk-free. Go to schoolofpodcasting.com/join and be on your way to podcast success.
9 March 2026, 4:00 am - 44 minutes 5 secondsPodcast Short Cuts and Sacrifices: What Worked?
In this episode, I tackled the question submitted by Emily Kate: What sacrifices and shortcuts did you take in your podcasting journey, and did they work out well? A fantastic lineup of podcasters shared their wisdom, experiences, and favorite tools. Here’s an organized list of all the contributors with their URLs, plus every resource/tool we mentioned to help you on your own podcasting path.
Contributors & Their URLs
- Emily Kate :
- Kim Newlove ("The Pharmacist’s Voice" & "Perrysburg Podcast")
- Ralph ("Ask Ralph Media Network")
Includes shows: Financially Confident Christian, Grit and Growth Business, Truth Unveiled with Ralph, Content Creators Accountant
- Todd the Gator ("Guardian Down Roundtable")
- Krista Lawley & Mark ("Practical Prepping Podcast")
Resources & URLs Mentioned
- Otter.ai – Transcription tool
- Bitly – Link shortener/tracker/QR Code Creator
- Switchy – Link shortener/tracker/QR code creator (one time payment)
- Steve Stewart’s Podcast Editor Finder Form
- Podcast Editors Academy
- Auphonic – Audio processing & AI audio editing
- Audacity – Audio editing software
- OBS (Open Broadcaster Software)
- Descript – Audio editing & AI tool
- Resound.fm – De-um tool & audio editing
- AppSumo – Deals platform (referenced for AI tools)
- Castmagic – AI show notes & content creation
- Podpage – Podcast website builder
- Music Radio Creative – Jingles, music, and audio branding
- Suno – AI-generated jingles/music
- Ecamm Live – Live streaming & recording software (Mac only)
- Alec Johnson / One Take Productions Ecamm Live Masterclass
- Magi – AI aggregation tool
- Voice Regen - AI Audio Clean Up Tool
- The Audacity to Podcast
- The Podcasters Roundtable
- Podcasters Studio
Mentioned in this episode:
See Your Show On Podpage
If you host a podcast, your website should work as hard as your episodes do. At Podpage, we automatically create a beautiful, professional site for your show — complete with episode pages, transcripts, audio players, SEO optimization, and built-in tools to grow your audience. No design work. No plugins. No ongoing maintenance. In less than a minute, you can see exactly what your podcast would look like on Podpage. Go to podpage.com/preview and generate your free preview site now. (No Credit Card Required) See your show the way it should look.
Podcast Hot Seat - Now Private Podcast Audits
There are things your podcast is missing that often lead to you losing the audience you are attracting. I help make good podcasts GREAT. End the frustration with your podcast growth. Check out the Podcast Hot Seat Service Today.
Join the School of Podcasting
Mark from Practical Prepping had been podcasting for a while, but after joining the School of Podcasting, his podcast grew at a faster rate. His Facebook group has over 30,000 members! Join the School of Podcasting and get access to: Step-by-step tutorials An amazing podcast community Unlimited One-On-One Coaching Join today worry-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee!
Question of the Month: The Future of Podcasting
Someone asked me, and I had to think about it. So now I'm asking you, How do you feel about the future of podcasting? Where do you think it's going? (etc,). Feel free to share your opinion and why. Don't forget to tell us about your show and where we can find it.
2 March 2026, 4:00 am - 55 minutes 49 secondsThe Pros and Cons of Going Video: Let’s Talk
Hey, it's Dave Jackson! In this episode, Ishare my talk that I did at the National Religious Broadcasters (NRB) about video podcasting. What are the real benefits, the costs, and the drawbacks? I also tackled the recent Apple announcement about HLS video, shared my NRB event experience, and got into some real stats and stories about YouTube and podcasting.
This episode uses chapters to enable you to jump to the most important parts for you.
Key Topics Covered:
- The difference between a podcast and a YouTube show
- Stats on how many podcasters are actually doing "real" video
- YouTube's change to how Shorts views are counted
- Pros and cons of YouTube for discovery and monetization
- Cost breakdowns of starting both audio and video podcasts
- Completion percentages for audio vs video shows
- Algorithm reality and how audience recommendations work
- Major drawbacks of relying on video platforms for income
- The new Apple HLS video announcement: what it means, who it's for, and whether you should care
- Real examples of creators' experiences on YouTube
My Takeaways:
You don't have to do video if you don't want to. Video can help with discovery, but the audio side offers significantly more opportunity—sometimes a 15x larger audience! Also, while YouTube provides community and powerful analytics, the algorithm and monetization risks are real. The new Apple HLS video support is mostly about helping advertisers, not creators, and comes with new costs.
Resources & Links Mentioned:
- School of Podcasting: schoolofpodcasting.com
- Podcast Host Survey (Dr. Colin Gray): thepodcasthost.com
- The Truth About ‘Video Podcasts’ on YouTube
- These 5 Podcasters Added Video – Here’s What Happened
- PodcastIndex stats: podcastindex.org
- Hosting Recommendations:
- Captivate: captivate.fm
- Buzzsprout: buzzsprout.com
- RSS.com: rss.com
- Blubrry: blubrry.com
- Think Media (YouTube demonetization video): thinkmedia.com
- Truth Unveiled with Ralph (Ralph Eastep):
- Sponsor Magnet book by Justin Moore:
- Profit from Your Podcast (my book):
- Streamline Solopreneur with Joe Casabona
- Around the Layout (Ray)
- Podpage (Podcast Website builder): podpage.com
- Podnews details on Apple announcement on HLS
- Jordan Harbinger on the New Media Show
- Professor of Rock on AI Ruining YouTube.
- Rob Walch talks about Club Random
Other Tools Mentioned:
- Samson Q2U mic, Rode PodMic USB, Shure MV7 and SM7B, Audio-Technica AT897 Shotgun Condenser Microphone (mic options)
- Elgato Facecam Pro, Sony ZV-E10 II (camera options)
- Descript & Riverside (remote video recorders/editors)
- Patreon & SuperCast (crowdfunding)
- Ecamm Live (live streaming tool)
- Inexpensive Lighting Rig
Final Thoughts:
If you want to do video, go ahead—but know the realities and risks. Don't let anyone (especially YouTube or Spotify) pressure you into it unless it suits your content and goals. And keep in mind, when Apple rolls out its new features, it’s likely to come with extra charges, so stay informed!
If you need help planning, launching, or growing your show, check out schoolofpodcasting.com and use coupon code LISTENER.
Please share the episode with a friend if you found it helpful!
Send people to www.schoolofpodcasting.com/1024
Mentioned in this episode:
Starting a podcast can be daunting. Fear of failure, uncertainty about where to begin, and doubts about your abilities can hold you back. But what if you had a guide? The School of Podcasting is here to help you confidently launch, grow, and monetize your podcast. With over 20 years of experience and tons of successful podcasts launched, I'll walk you through every step. From planning to promotion, you're never alone." Learn at your own pace with video courses, join a supportive community, and get unlimited coaching. Say goodbye to fear and hello to success." Start your podcasting journey today with the School of Podcasting. Join now and take the first step towards turning your passion into a reality. Visit SchoolOfPodcasting.com to get started. No fear, just success.
Want to Make Some Money with Your Podcast?
Pick up any book on podcast monetization, and you will find 90 percent of it only covers how to launch a podcast. If you already have a podcast, you have that information; you’re ready for the next step. Profit from Your Podcast provides top strategies and real-life examples of podcast monetization. This book is more than what to do. It also tells you how to do it. Go to www.profitfromyourpodcast.com/book
23 February 2026, 4:00 am - 37 minutes 7 secondsCut the Fluff, Keep the Gold: How to Edit for Your Audience
In this episode, I’m walking you through why great podcast editing doesn’t start with software, plugins, or secret shortcuts — it starts with knowing your audience. Once you’re crystal clear on who you’re talking to and what they value, editing becomes a lot easier: you simply remove anything that wastes their time or doesn’t deliver value.
Editing For Content
I’ll share examples from real interviews (including Amy Poehler’s “Good Hang” and conversations with my friends Daniel J. Lewis and Katie Krimitsos) to show how to tighten up questions, trim rambling answers, and keep the pace moving so your listeners stay engaged from start to finish.
If you’ve ever listened back to your show and thought, “It’s fine…but something feels off,” this one’s for you.
---
Where To start?
Editing starts with your audience, not your software
- Why the first question is, “Who am I talking to and what do they want?”
- How knowing your audience’s problems, language, and attention span guides every cut.
- The “vegetarian at dinner” analogy: if you know who’s coming, you know what not to serve.
Did they actually answer the question?
- Using Amy Poehler’s friend and Jennifer Lawrence as an example of a non-answer answer.
- How to spot when guests talk *around* a question instead of answering it.
- When to follow up, when to re-ask more simply, and when to just fix it in the edit.
Cut the fluff, keep the value
- Trimming long-winded questions where the host gives too much backstory.
- Shortening guest answers that wander, repeat, or add no value to the listener.
- Why you don’t need to include your guest “thinking out loud” to get to the point.
Friends, comfort, and wasted time
- How being comfortable with guests (friends, colleagues) can lead to bloated conversations.
- Why “fun to say” isn’t the same as “valuable to hear” for your audience.
- The discipline of deleting entire questions and answers that just don’t land.
Content editing vs. cosmetic editing
- Why removing bad questions is more powerful than removing ums and uhs.
- When it makes sense to leave in human imperfections for a natural feel.
- The mindset shift from “How do I make this cleaner?” to “How do I make this stronger?”
Basic audio cleanup that actually matters
- A practical order of operations: repair first, then shape the sound.
- What plosives, noise gates, compression, EQ, and de-essers do in plain English.
- Why “listenable” beats “perfect,” especially for guest recordings.
Testing popular cleanup tools on bad audio
- What happened when I ran intentionally bad audio through different tools.
- How tools like Voice Regen, Auphonic, Descript Studio Sound, Adobe Enhance, and others compare in real use.
- Why the cheap, simple option sometimes wins for everyday podcasters.
Know your audience, know your cuts
- How hanging out where your audience hangs out (YouTube, Facebook groups, Reddit, etc.) tells you what to keep.
- The simple question to ask of every segment: “Does this deliver value to *my* listener?”
- How better audience understanding leads to faster editing and stronger episodes.
Key Takeaway:
Editing isn’t about showing off your software skills. It’s about respecting your listener’s time. When you know exactly who they are and what they care about, the decisions of what to cut — and what to keep — almost make themselves.
Links Mentioned In This Episode
This content may contain affiliate links, meaning I earn a small commission if you purchase through these links at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products or services I trust and believe will provide value to you. Thank you for your support!
How to Pitch a Podcast Show (submit your show)
Good Hang Jennifer Lawrence Episode
Check Your Loudness at https://loudness.app/en
YouTube Demonetizing Shows (30K Goodbye!)
Big Lash Energy's Jayna Marie is Next Week.
Mentioned in this episode:
Question of the Month: The Future of Podcasting
Someone asked me, and I had to think about it. So now I'm asking you, How do you feel about the future of podcasting? Where do you think it's going? (etc,). Feel free to share your opinion and why. Don't forget to tell us about your show and where we can find it.
Help Us Fight Back Against Spam and Get Some Exposure
How to Pitch a Podcast is a show I'm launching that NEEDS your stories of good/bad pitches. Read your bad/good pitch (I'll remove the guilty names) and explain why it's good or bad. Then (if it's bad) explain what your perfect guest would be, tell us about your show and your website. Don't over-think it. I need your stories by 2/28 to launch. Go to pitchapodcast.com/story
Join the School of Podcasting
Mark from Practical Prepping had been podcasting for a while, but after joining the School of Podcasting, his podcast grew at a faster rate. His Facebook group has over 30,000 members! Join the School of Podcasting and get access to: Step-by-step tutorials An amazing podcast community Unlimited One-On-One Coaching Join today worry-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee!
16 February 2026, 4:00 am - 43 minutes 47 secondsIngredients that Make People Binge Your Podcast
Alright, so if you’re a podcaster looking to snag more listeners and get them hooked on your back catalog, then buckle up, because we’re diving into binge triggers straight outta the Netflix playbook. We’re breaking down three juicy strategies that can keep your audience glued to their headphones, even after they’ve finished your latest episode. Plus, we’ve got a heartwarming “because of my podcast” story from Ray Arnott that’ll make you believe in the magic of podcasting. So, if you're tired of people tuning in and then bouncing faster than a bad date, stick around. We’re gonna make your podcast the one they're bingeing on next!
1. Open Loops (Brain Gaps)
What It Is:
An open loop is an unresolved element in your content—a question, mystery, or ongoing storyline that the listener subconsciously wants resolved. This is a storytelling technique borrowed from TV and movies: cliffhangers, subplots, or even hints about future developments that drive people to keep watching (or listening) to find out what happens next.
Examples from the Episode:
- uses TV examples like Will Trent and Tracker:
"There's a problem at the beginning of the episode… and 50 minutes later, give or take, the problem is solved. … On occasion they'll do a two-parter with a cliffhanger." (01:39)
- In Will Trent, the ongoing subplot about the main character being disliked and saving a dog (an adaptation of the “save the cat” storytelling trope) gets the audience rooting for him, creating emotional investment through an open loop about his relationships and backstory.
"You have this underlying story that's going through the whole thing, and I believe that's why we are binging content." (13:11)
- In podcasts, an open loop could be as simple as starting a story in one episode and promising to finish it later, or introducing a mystery or a question (“Did James ever fix his solar panels?”) that’s answered in a later episode.
How To Use:
- Tease questions (“Next week, I’ll reveal the results…”)
- Continue a personal story arc across episodes
- Dangle small mysteries (“I opened the door and only saw one of the three things I was looking for…”) (
- Share journey updates that listeners want closure or progress on
2. Teasers & Episode Structure
What It Is:
Tease content before and after episodes to contextualize your podcast for new and returning listeners. By referencing what was discussed in previous episodes and previewing what’s coming next, you build a web of episodes that feel interconnected—just like "Next Episode" buttons on streaming platforms encourage more watching.
Examples from the Episode:
- highlights Harry Duran’s approach:
"He introduces his show… 'If you missed last week's episode, we talked to so-and-so about such and such…' On today's show, we're talking with so-and-so. … At the end of the show… he knows what the next episode is. … You now have 3 ideas of what this show is about." (08:28)
- The benefit is, if listeners hear a recap of a past episode or a preview of the next, they’re incentivized to explore your other episodes—bingeing your back catalog.
How To Use:
- At the start: preview what’s happening in the current episode and what listeners missed if they haven’t heard recent content
- At the end: teaser for the next episode (e.g., “Next week, I’m talking to…”)
- Mention popular or related episodes (“Check out our past episode on…”)
- Structure your season thematically, so every episode contributes to a bigger picture (e.g., a season all about podcast hardware invites listeners to hear the whole set)
3. Ongoing Initiatives & Personal Journeys
What It Is:
Maintain a continuous, real-life thread running through your podcast—such as a personal project, journey, or community initiative—which encourages listeners to check back for updates and stay invested in your progress over time.
Examples from the Episode:
- I talk about his “How to Pitch a Podcast” project:
“I've been talking about the How to Pitch a Podcast project… I'm not launching the show until I get 20 stories. … It’s an ongoing initiative that people are like, oh, you know, and you might be kind of involved with like, oh, I really want to see this show take off.” (10:23)
- He references Joanna Penn’s podcast chronicling her journey to become an independent author—listeners followed along as she learned, failed, and eventually succeeded, creating long-term engagement and rooting interest.
- Many shows use “journey” approaches where listeners are encouraged to follow a process or transformation over time (fitness challenges, entrepreneurial launches, etc.).
How To Use:
- Start a project or challenge and give periodic updates (“I’m launching X, here’s what happened this week…”)
- Share personal development arcs—what you’re learning, obstacles, and milestones
- Invite audience participation (“I need 20 submissions from you before the project goes live!”)
In summary:
- Open loops hook listeners by leaving threads unresolved, making them want to continue and find closure.
- Teasers and structured episode links make every episode a gateway to others in your catalog, increasing binge potential.
- Ongoing initiatives or journeys build sustained interest by making listeners part of your process and progress.
These strategies ensure listeners don’t just drop in for a single episode—they feel compelled to stick around, binge, and become loyal fans.
Becuase of My Podcast: Ray Arnott
Ray Arnott from the Around the Layout Show (model trains) has been on the show before, and today Ray shares how a listener from Australia is paying for Ray's tripe to come to a model train meetup in Australia!
Links referenced in this episode:
- schoolofpodcasting.com
- pitchapodcast.com
- aroundthelayout.com
- podcastjunkies.com
- newmediashow.com
- Pet Davidson on Jimmy Fallon
- Joe Rogan with Matt Damon and Ben Affleck
- Save the Cat Book
- Ray Arnott on the School of Podcasting (on finding Sponsors/Partners)
Mentioned in this episode:
Question of the Month: The Future of Podcasting
Someone asked me, and I had to think about it. So now I'm asking you, How do you feel about the future of podcasting? Where do you think it's going? (etc,). Feel free to share your opinion and why. Don't forget to tell us about your show and where we can find it.
See Your Show On Podpage
If you host a podcast, your website should work as hard as your episodes do. At Podpage, we automatically create a beautiful, professional site for your show — complete with episode pages, transcripts, audio players, SEO optimization, and built-in tools to grow your audience. No design work. No plugins. No ongoing maintenance. In less than a minute, you can see exactly what your podcast would look like on Podpage. Go to podpage.com/preview and generate your free preview site now. (No Credit Card Required) See your show the way it should look.
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Join the School of Podcasting Today - Your Future Self Will Thank You
Stepping out of your comfort zone isn't easy, but at the School of Podcasting, we're here to make it feel like second nature. With our expertly crafted courses and an incredible community, you're never alone in your journey. From planning and launching to growing your podcast, I’ll be right by your side every step of the way. Remember, every podcast episode builds connections and opens doors to future opportunities. Take action today, and let your future self reap the rewards.
9 February 2026, 4:00 am - More Episodes? Get the App