The only daily morning show for creators, by creators...Ever wonder how top content creators and podcasters keep their shows fresh, engaging, and profitable? From brainstorming content ideas to growing a loyal audience, mastering monetization strategies, booking the perfect guests, navigating the maze of hardware and software, and leveraging cutting-edge AI tools – there's a universe of knowledge to explore!The Podcasting Morning Chat is your morning meetup in the digital realm, where podcasting meets purpose and creativity sparks connection. Hosted by Marc Ronick, with nearly two decades of experience, and elevated by a team comprised of award-winning podcasters, accomplished entrepreneurs & producers, and podcast hosts with years of experience. Together, they form the backbone of 'The Podcasting Morning Chat,' diving into the nuts and bolts of content creation, sharing real-life challenges, solutions, and success stories.Streaming live every weekday at 7 AM EST from Clubhouse (yes, Clubhouse!), our show has evolved into a go-to resource for content creators worldwide. Imagine a mastermind group's collaborative spirit combined with the engaging vibe of a morning-drive radio show – that's what we're all about.Whether you're a seasoned podcaster or just starting, join us and our global community of creators to delve into topics like audience growth, monetization, the latest in news and tech we care about, and overcoming common hurdles we often face like creative burnout or new software.Too early for the livestream? No worries! Catch up with the latest episodes at your convenience, right here on your favorite podcast platform.The Podcasting Morning Chat: Connect. Grow. Create.
In our first Money Mondays episode, led by Ralph Estep Jr., we take a closer look at one of the most common financial habits creators fall into without even realizing it. This conversation explores why it matters, why so many podcasters and content creators put it off, and how a few simple shifts can change the way you think about the business side of your work. Expect a practical, relatable discussion that touches on money mindset, day-to-day habits, and building something more sustainable over time.Episode Highlights:[01:09] The simple shift that can help separate personal and creator finances using accounts and cards already in place[04:39] The question from Ralph that reveals how easily personal and creator money can get mixed without realizing it[07:26] Why waiting to separate finances “until real money comes in” often creates bigger problems later[08:42] What a 1099 really means for creators and why surprise forms in January can lead to costly mistakes[15:01] The hidden audit risk in Amazon purchases and a smarter way to handle buying gear[18:57] How the IRS evaluates consistency, activity, and even calendar records to determine business vs. hobby status[26:45] The three major issues commingling creates: lost deductions, unclear financial data, and increased legal exposure[31:03] The “tax vault” concept and a practical way to think about paying yourself as a creator[34:33] What to understand about LLCs, including real benefits, real costs, and why forming one isn't a complete solution[49:25] How to plan for taxes when creator income is inconsistent and constantly changingLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podcastingmorningchat.comMeet the PMC Cast and Crew:https://podcastingmorningchat.com/peopleJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingBook A Free Call With Me: https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycallApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://podcastingmorningchat.com/evalJoin us Mondays at 7 AM ET for the Obsession Worthy Podcasts:http://podcastingmorningchat.com/owp/Remember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://podcastingmorningchat.com/clubhouseEPC3 Speaker Application: https://empoweredpodcasting.com/speakersPodcasters Happy Hour (March 26, 5:30 pm EDT, North Bethesda, Maryland):https://podnews.net/event/podcaster-visibility-meetup-in-the-dmvRalph's Money & Tax help link:Free 15‑minute discovery call/help page:https://contentcreatorsaccountant.com/helpmeLive on YouTube: http://podcastingmorningchat.com/joinusPowered by iRonickMedia.com and ContentCreatorsAccountant.comPlease note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
Why do podcast scripts feel stiff, even when you know exactly what you want to say? In this episode, we talk about the difference between writing for the page and speaking for the ear, and why that matters for how you sound. I share simple tips with the PMC cast and crew to help you loosen up, like reading your script out loud, adding pauses and inflection, keeping your wording simple, and using outlines instead of sticking to a word-for-word script. We also get into tools like teleprompters and AI, plus a few easy ways to practice so you can feel more confident and connect better with your audience, and we wrap things up with community wins, celebrating progress, personal milestones, and the reminder to keep showing up and give yourself grace as you grow.Episode Highlights:[00:04] Why podcast scripts sound stiff and what we'll cover[06:11] Writing for the page vs writing for the ear[08:13] Knowing your message instead of just reading words[11:51] Reading scripts out loud to improve delivery[13:33] Rewriting scripts to match how you actually speak[16:49] Using pauses, pacing, and inflection to sound human[19:11] Marking up scripts for emphasis and natural flow[24:00] Using outlines instead of full scripts for flexibility[32:42] Using AI to turn scripts into conversational delivery[39:30] Weekly wins: celebrating progress, growth, and community[42:18] Giving yourself grace and learning through mistakes[50:42] Personal wins and meaningful moments to close the weekLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podcastingmorningchat.comMeet the PMC Cast and Crew:https://podcastingmorningchat.com/peopleJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingBook A Free Call With Me: https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycallApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://podcastingmorningchat.com/evalRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://podcastingmorningchat.com/clubhouseEPC3 Speaker Application: https://empoweredpodcasting.com/speakersPodcasters Happy Hour (March 26, 5:30pm EDT, North Bethesda Maryland):https://podnews.net/event/podcaster-visibility-meetup-in-the-dmvMarc's Stepson Matthew (Instagram):https://www.instagram.com/matthewbcooks/Marc's Stepson Matthew (TikTok):https://www.tiktok.com/@matthewbcooksLive on YouTube: http://podcastingmorningchat.com/joinusPowered by iRonickMedia.com and ContentCreatorsAccountant.comPlease note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podcastingmorningchat.contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
In this special Podcasthon episode, we join a global initiative through Podcasthon.org, using podcasting to support charities and nonprofits through meaningful storytelling, and I'm joined by the PMC cast and crew as we each share causes that matter deeply to us. I'm also joined by my best friend Jonah Berger, who shares his experience living with CMT (Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease) and the work being done toward a cure. From honoring loved ones to sharing personal health journeys, we highlight organizations like the Glioblastoma Foundation, Islamic Relief, CMTA, Stand Up To Cancer, and MSAA. Along the way, we also weave in podcasting insights, reminding ourselves that our shows are more than content. They're a way to create connection, raise awareness, and make a real impact.Episode Highlights:[00:05] Opening and introduction to Podcasthon and today's global initiative[02:21] What Podcasthon is and how podcasters are participating worldwide[04:01] How the PMC community is supporting charities through a shared page[05:00] Wheel of Jargon: Understanding IAB and why it matters[11:00] Ralph shares a personal story and supports the Glioblastoma Foundation[20:00] A reminder to honor loved ones and take meaningful action[21:03] Junaid highlights Islamic Relief and advocacy organizations[26:09] Wheel of Jargon: What ID3 tags are and why they matter[27:42] Marc introduces CMT and welcomes guest Jonah Berger[30:00] Living with CMT and how it shapes daily life[34:10] Progress toward a cure and the power of collaborative research[41:48] Camp Footprint and building community for kids with CMT[42:46] D.R. shares her husband's cancer journey and Stand Up To Cancer[48:45] Tim shares his MS journey and support for MSAA[50:00] The impact of sharing stories and supporting causes through podcastingLinks & Resources: Learn more about Podcastthon: https://podcasthon.orgHere are the charities the team is supporting for Podcasthon: https://www.podcastingmorningchat.com/charity/Jonah Berger's book: He Walks Like a Cowboy https://www.amazon.com/He-Walks-Like-Cowboy-Disability/dp/0595471684/Jonah's Presentation at his local middle school (courtesy of FOX 47):https://www.facebook.com/reel/1326849999266221Junaid's Book: Podcast Relationship Managementhttp://PRMbook.comJunaid's Podcast 'Operating System'https://www.podglue.com/Multiple Sclerosis Association of America (MSAA):https://mymsaa.org/The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podcastingmorningchat.comMeet the PMC Cast and Crew:https://podcastingmorningchat.com/peopleJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingBook A Free Call With Me: https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycallApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://podcastingmorningchat.com/evalJoin us Mondays at 7 AM ET for the Obsession Worthy Podcasts:http://podcastingmorningchat.com/owp/Remember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://podcastingmorningchat.com/clubhouseEPC3 Speaker Application: https://empoweredpodcasting.com/speakersPodcasters Happy Hour (March 26, 5:30pm EDT, North Bethesda Maryland):https://podnews.net/event/podcaster-visibility-meetup-in-the-dmvLive on YouTube: http://podcastingmorningchat.com/joinusPowered by iRonickMedia.com and ContentCreatorsAccountant.comPlease note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podcastingmorningchat.contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
In this week's news and commentary episode, we dig into one of the biggest stories in podcasting right now: PodPage's Bold Acquisition—PodPage acquiring the School of Podcasting, and what that really means for you as a creator. It might sound like just another business move, but there's a bigger shift happening here toward a more connected podcasting experience where tools, education, and growth all work together. Dave Jackson joins us live to share the heart behind the decision, what changes (and what doesn't) for members, and how this could help podcasters stay consistent instead of burning out. We also zoom out and talk about where the industry is heading, from Apple leaning harder into video and what that could cost, to new data showing just how effective podcast ads really are, plus updates from YouTube and Spotify. If you're podcasting right now or thinking about starting, this conversation will help you make sense of where things are headed and what to pay attention to next.Episode Highlights:[00:05] Opening and introduction to today's news and commentary episode[01:20] Meet the PMC cast and crew + special guest Dave Jackson[02:21] Big announcement: Ralph Estep Jr. steps in as Co-Executive Producer[13:12] PodPage acquires School of Podcasting. What's really behind the move[14:27] Dave Jackson on retention and why podcasters quit[28:41] Apple Podcasts' video push and what it could cost creators[31:35] Are platforms building for creators or advertisers?[37:02] Why trust is podcasting's biggest advantage[42:52] Risks of platform dependence and AI moderation issues[50:44] New AI podcasting tools and the “Canva-ification” of content creationLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podcastingmorningchat.comMeet the PMC Cast and Crew:https://podcastingmorningchat.com/peopleJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingBook A Free Call With Me: https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycallApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://podcastingmorningchat.com/evalJoin us Mondays at 7 AM ET for the Obsession Worthy Podcasts:http://podcastingmorningchat.com/owp/Remember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://podcastingmorningchat.com/clubhouseLearn more about Podcastthon: https://podcastthon.orgPodpage: https://podcastingmorningchat.com/podpageEPC3 Speaker Application: https://empoweredpodcasting.com/speakersPodcasters Happy Hour (March 26, 5:30pm EDT, North Bethesda Maryland):https://podnews.net/event/podcaster-visibility-meetup-in-the-dmvEdison Research Study – Podcast Ads Boost Reach Without Extra Spend:https://www.edisonresearch.com/reallocating-ad-dollars-to-podcasts-can-deliver-41-growth-in-reach/Live on YouTube: http://podcastingmorningchat.com/joinusPowered by iRonickMedia.com and ContentCreatorsAccountant.comPlease note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podcastingmorningchat.contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.com Want to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
In this week's mailbag episode, we get into a question a lot of podcasters wrestle with: can a podcast actually be too conversational? We unpack what people really mean when they say they want their show to feel natural and why the best conversations still need a bit of direction to keep listeners hooked. As we go, we also take on another common concern: whether you can grow a podcast from scratch, and talk honestly about what that journey looks like, why your “why” matters more than numbers early on, and how those first few listeners and simple word of mouth can slowly build something real.Episode Highlights:[00:05] Opening and introduction to today's mailbag episode[10:00] Mailbag Question #1: Can a podcast be too conversational?[12:30] Why structure still matters, even in relaxed conversations[17:22] The role of the host in guiding the discussion[20:05] How to recognize when a conversation has gone off track[29:44] Practical ways to keep conversations natural but focused[40:51] Audience vs. community. What's the difference?[45:00] Mailbag Question #2: Can you grow a podcast from scratch?[50:00] Defining your “why” and what success actually means[54:00] The power of word-of-mouth growthLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podcastingmorningchat.comMeet the PMC Cast and Crew:https://podcastingmorningchat.com/peopleJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingBook A Free Call With Me: https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycallApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://podcastingmorningchat.com/evalJoin us Mondays at 7 AM ET for the Obsession Worthy Podcasts:http://podcastingmorningchat.com/owp/Support the CMTAhttps://cmtausa.org/Podcaster Happy Hour on 3/26/26 in North Bethesda, MDhttps://podcastingmorningchat.com/epcmarchRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://podcastingmorningchat.com/clubhouseLearn more about Podcastthon:https://podcastthon.orgWashington DC Meetup Details:https://podcastingmorningchat.com/epcmarchLive on YouTube: http://podcastingmorningchat.com/joinusBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podcastingmorningchat.contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
In this week's Obsession Worthy Podcasts series returns and we break down an episode of Search Engine to explore what makes the show so compelling, and what the rest of us can learn from it as podcasters. Using their episode about Anthropic's Claude AI as our example, we look at how Search Engine pulls listeners in with emotion, builds curiosity by expanding the questions at just the right moments, and uses layered storytelling to keep people engaged from start to finish. Along the way, we unpack how mystery, tension, relatability, and deeper human stakes can make an episode far more memorable and binge-worthy.Episode Highlights:[00:05] Opening and introduction to the Obsession Worthy Podcasts segment[05:27] Jonathan Howard explains the concept behind OWP and the featured podcast[08:44] The host introduces “future nausea,” the uneasy feeling about rapid AI progress[15:58] How polarized opinions shape the public conversation about AI[18:14] A simulation shows Claude choosing blackmail to avoid being deleted[22:00] The deeper question: does AI reason or simply predict patterns[29:51] How human influence and bias shape the responses AI systems generate[33:32] Why an AI company hired a philosopher to help guide ethical behavior[43:48] The motivations behind AI development, from solving big problems to simple curiosity[49:49] Lessons podcasters can learn from the storytelling approach used in the episodeLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podcastingmorningchat.comMeet the PMC Cast and Crew:https://podcastingmorningchat.com/peopleJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingBook A Free Call With Me: https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycallApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://podcastingmorningchat.com/evalJoin us Mondays at 7 AM ET for the Obsession Worthy Podcasts:http://podcastingmorningchat.com/owp/Listen to Search Engine's, Mysteries of Claudehttps://pod.link/1614253637/episode/ZjZkZjU0MDYtOGFhNy0xMWYwLWE5MzEtYzMxMDljOTk4NWQ1 Remember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://podcastingmorningchat.com/clubhouseLearn more about Podcastthon:https://podcasthon.org/aboutLive on YouTube: http://podcastingmorningchat.com/joinusBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podcastingmorningchat.contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
What's the best part of podcasting… and what's the part nobody warns you about? Today, we explore the highs and lows that come with running a podcast. This ranges from hosting meaningful conversations to frustrations that show up behind the scenes. You'll hear stories about common mistakes, the pressure around monetization, the grind of promotion, and the many moving parts that go into producing a show. At the same time, the conversation highlights why so many creators keep showing up behind the mic: the relationships, the growth, and the impact their content can have over time. We also spin the Wheel of Jargon to unpack what “hosting” actually means in podcasting, and we wrap up the week by sharing our wins and celebrating our accomplishments.Episode Highlights: [02:12] Next week preview[09:52] Wheel of Jargon begins[11:06] What a hosting platform actually means[17:00] Best and worst parts of podcasting[18:09] Listener stories and perspectives[26:53] Promotion burnout and sustainability[28:03] The power of an email list[29:28] Keeping up with industry trends[31:11] Paid ads that actually work[33:32] Using audience polls for targeting[38:32] Meetup announcement[40:01] Weekly wins roundupLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingBook A Free Call With Me: https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycallJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U57S-XgoA/viewform?usp=headerPodGlue:www.podglue.com PMC #217 Grow to 100K Downloads on a Budget with Tyler Perry:www.podcastingmorningchat.com/s1e217 Remember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wLive on YouTube: http://podcastingmorningchat.com/joinusBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
So you've landed your first sponsor. Now you start thinking… What do they actually want to see from you? Downloads? Listener behavior? Something else entirely? Today, we're opening the mailbag to tackle a question from one of our very own cohosts, Sid, who wondered what kind of analytics sponsors really care about and how podcasters should present that information to keep the relationship strong. Do downloads matter as much as we think they do? What metrics actually tell the story of your audience? And do sponsors even care about the same numbers podcasters obsess over? We explore what sponsors may want to learn from podcast analytics, what data might be useful to share, and how creators can think about reporting in a way that supports a long-term partnership. We also briefly touch on another question… is there really a difference between a DIY podcaster and an indie podcaster, or is it mostly semantics?Episode Highlights: [02:54] Indie vs. DIY podcasting debate[06:43] What sponsors actually want in analytics reports[13:44] Trackable links, promo codes, and proving ROI[25:35] AI tools for generating editable slide decks[29:47] Apple versus host analytics mismatchLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingBook A Free Call With Me: https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycallJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U57S-XgoA/viewform?usp=headerBuzzSprout Analytics: https://www.buzzsprout.com/blog/apple-podcasts-analyticsOP3: https://op3.dev/Podpage: https://www.podpage.com/?via=ironickmediaRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wLive on YouTube: http://podcastingmorningchat.com/joinusBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
Why would Amazon shut down the standalone Wondery app after investing so heavily in podcasting? Today, we look at that headline and what it might signal about how major platforms are rethinking their podcast strategy. If a company like Amazon is shifting direction, it raises important questions about where podcast distribution and monetization may be headed next. Today is news day, and we also discuss growing concerns around Libsyn after reports of technical issues and a declining share of new podcast episodes, which has many podcasters wondering what may be happening behind the scenes at one of the industry's oldest hosting platforms. Plus, we explore a new AI-powered tool designed to help podcast networks manage analytics, advertising campaigns, and operations, signaling how artificial intelligence is starting to move deeper into the business side of podcasting. Episode Highlights: [03:42] Buzzsprout download benchmarks and what “top 1%” really means[07:43] Completion rate data and first-minute drop-off[10:30] Apple and Spotify top five charts[12:19] Podcasting events roundup[20:18] Business bite: side hustles for creators[27:36] News bites: Netflix viewing patterns and RØDE updates[32:35] Libsyn publishing friction and workflow concerns[36:07] Creator contingency planning[39:19] Jay Shetty leaving iHeart[42:31] Amazon shuts down the Wondery app[46:31] The podcast boom matures: fewer launches, more active shows[52:15] The tiny SEO tagline hack that boosts discoveryLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingBook A Free Call With Me: https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycallJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U57S-XgoA/viewform?usp=headerBuzzsprout Global Podcast Stats:https://www.buzzsprout.com/statsBumper:https://www.wearebumper.com/blogPodcasting Made Simple Live: https://www.podmatch.com/eventEmpowered Podcasting Conference:https://empoweredpodcasting.comPodnews:www.podnews.netRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wLive on YouTube: http://podcastingmorningchat.com/joinusBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
You finally book a guest you're excited about. You press the record button, you're off… and suddenly the answers drift into promotion, your guest goes on irrelevant tangents, and the episode never seems to find its legs. Many podcasters learn this lesson the hard way. Today, we talk about one of the simplest ways to protect the listener experience before the recording ever starts. Today, our conversation is about the role of the pre-interview and why it can make the difference between a scattered interview and a focused, engaging episode. We look at how a short conversation ahead of time can help shape the story, set expectations, and make sure both host and guest are ready to serve the audience. Then we take it a step further. Instead of just talking about the idea, we demonstrate it. We improvise a couple of mock pre-interviews so you can hear what the process actually sounds like and how it helps set up a stronger episode.Episode Highlights: [02:46] Why pre-interviews matter[05:56] Vetting guests and protecting audience fit[15:20] Tech checks, links, and logistics before recording[17:35] The anti pre-interview perspective[26:38] Matt and Sid roleplay session[34:23] Setting interview guardrails[36:39] Improv scenario with audio issues[39:53] Handling unprepared or promotional guests[41:15] Debrief on coaching language and jargon[52:07] Name pronunciation and final prepLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingBook A Free Call With Me: https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycallJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U57S-XgoA/viewform?usp=headerRiverside Connectivity Tester: https://test-connectivity.riverside.fmRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wLive on YouTube: http://podcastingmorningchat.com/joinusBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
Have you ever listened to a podcast and wondered why some episode openings pull you in right away while others take too long to get going? While Marc is out, Ralph Estep Jr. and Jonathan Howard lead us through an appreciation of Swindled and the storytelling choices that make it so effective. What starts as a close look at one show becomes a practical conversation about stronger intros, emotional hooks, and the storytelling devices that make listeners lean in. As the panel studies how the episode opens, the bigger lesson becomes clear: a strong beginning does more than introduce the topic. It sets the tone, creates emotion, sparks curiosity, and shapes the full listener journey. Along the way, this episode becomes a mini masterclass in how to open stronger, create emotional pull, and use storytelling devices with more intention.Episode Highlights: [01:38] Why Swindled works as an obsession-worthy format[05:20] Breaking down the long prologue and pattern priming[07:24] The host's deadpan delivery style[10:16] Audience reactions and emotional response[24:43] Setting up the receipts[29:48] Evidence-first storytelling and show notes depth[35:44] Why the episode structure works[41:57] Hooks, curiosity gaps, and belief flipsLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingBook A Free Call With Me: https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycallJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U57S-XgoA/viewform?usp=headerSwindled: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-formula-nestl%C3%A9-boycott-of-1977/id1308717668?i=1000428016046Remember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wLive on YouTube: http://podcastingmorningchat.com/joinusBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
What really makes a great podcaster stand out? It is not always the flashy stuff like gear, editing tricks, or knowing every tool. Today, we ask a bigger question: what is the most underrated skill a podcaster can have? The answers go deeper than the usual advice as we talk about vocal technique, active listening, and the kinds of skills that help you keep a conversation alive. Then the discussion shifts into another big question: which matters more, technical or creative editing skills? That opens the door to a thoughtful conversation about craft, instinct, and why strong podcasting often asks for both. Regardless if you are brand new to podcasting or have been doing this a while, we invite you to think beyond the basics and look at what really helps a show land with your audience. To wrap up the show, we close out the week with a quick nod to wins worth celebrating. Episode Highlights: [02:15] Preview of next week's episodes[11:16] Framing the underrated skills conversation[13:56] Vocal technique and delivery awareness[16:09] Active listening and conversational presence[20:31] Asking better questions and building trust[24:36] Improvisation, flexibility, and punctual courtesy[34:34] Journey stories that motivate listeners[36:39] Creativity versus technical editing skills[40:52] Imposter syndrome, play, and continued learning[51:42] Community milestones and growth updatesLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingBook A Free Call With Me: https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycallJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U57S-XgoA/viewform?usp=headerObsession Worthy Podcast Preview: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-formula-nestl%C3%A9-boycott-of-1977/id1308717668?i=1000428016046Remember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wLive on YouTube: http://podcastingmorningchat.com/joinusBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
Have you ever been in the host seat, excited to interview your guest, but internally you cringe because nearly all their replies drift too heavily into promotion? Today's listener question goes right at that awkward moment, and we share our own experiences with guests who can't help but slide back into pitch mode. Toward the end of the show, we hit podcast news and talk about a big AI caution flag: we know that some AI tools out there can turn source material into a “podcast-style” show, but tests show they can miss key details, shift meaning, and even generate made-up quotes...Episode Highlights: [01:43] Tech glitches and maintaining the right mindset[09:58] Mailbag: handling over-promotional guests[20:52] Calling it out mid-interview when needed[33:16] Pre-interviews without killing the magic[37:29] Tech checks and guest preparation[38:25] Podcast News: AI-generated podcasts and accuracy risks[42:33] Ethics and monetizing low-quality AI content[46:26] Human review, prompt design, and quality control[51:30] AI as a tool and the host's responsibilityLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingBook A Free Call With Me: https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycallJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U57S-XgoA/viewform?usp=headerRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wLive on YouTube: http://podcastingmorningchat.com/joinusBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
Today's episode didn't go as planned.It was supposed to be our Podcast News and Comment edition, but my internet had other ideas. Most of the show didn't make it. What did survive was the opening few minutes, and that's what you're getting here!I kicked things off with a question that sounds incredibly creepy at 7am. I promise there was a reason for it! The team rolled with it, and what followed was one of those unscripted moments that perfectly captures the personality of this community.Live content comes with risk. Tech fails. Internet drops. Plans change.What doesn't change is the chemistry, the humor, and the willingness to roll with it. This episode is a reminder that connection beats perfection every time!We're back tomorrow at 7am Eastern. Watch live or catch the archived video or audio at:podcastingmorningchat.com/joinus
Content editing is the skill we don't see … but we've all felt. If you've ever finished an episode and thought, “It's fine… but it's not hitting,” this conversation is for you. Last week, we briefly touched on the practice of content editing, and Vicky wrote in with a question that opened a much bigger door: What's the difference between production editing and content editing? We talk through our interpretations of content editing and why it goes way beyond removing “ums” and tightening pauses. We also dig into how the role changes depending on your situation. Regardless if you edit your own show, hire an editor, or manage a team, how hands-on you should be to protect the message without smothering the process. Ultimately, editing isn't just cleaning audio… It's helping you tell your story. Episode Highlights: [03:12] Mailbag question: content editing vs. production editing[07:49] Defining content editing[17:23] Where content editing ends and production begins[22:22] Who should handle content editing decisions[25:57] Editor versus producer roles[28:44] Creative editors and shaping story[31:51] Starting with workflow before tools[39:45] Multi-pass editing for long-form episodes[42:50] Narrative editing begins in pre-productionLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingBook A Free Call With Me: https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycallJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U57S-XgoA/viewform?usp=headerFriday's Episode: https://www.podpage.com/network/themediacasters/show/the-podcasting-morning-chat/463-lessons-learned-from-the-scrubs-rewatch-podcast/Remember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wLive on YouTube: http://podcastingmorningchat.com/joinusBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
The most addictive podcasts don't just inform you, they make you feel like you're sitting at the table. In this Obsession Worthy episode, while Marc is out, cohosts Ralph Estep Jr and Jonathan Howard take the reins to lead a discussion on No Such Thing As a Fish and what you can take away for your own show. We break down why the banter works and how inside jokes keep people listening. We also talk about how the cast builds momentum with quick turns, clear roles, and a format that lets them cover a lot without feeling scattered. You'll hear why that “talking back to your phone” feeling matters, and how to create it without trying to be funny on command. The big takeaway is simple: you can experiment with topics, but your structure has to carry the weight. Then we try a fun “bring a fact” segment to test the method in real time.Episode Highlights: [01:18] Meet the panel[02:58] Universal doorways and why absurdity hooks listeners[07:07] Why controlled chaos creates energy[19:37] Listener talk-back moments and knowing your audience[21:18] How creators actually find their audience[24:03] Entertainment first as a guiding principle[32:50] Testing formats before committing[38:24] The fact challenge game begins[39:14] The origin of the word “podcast.”[44:05] The silence podcast debateLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingBook A Free Call With Me: https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycallJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U57S-XgoA/viewform?usp=headerNo Such Thing As a Fish: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZB6NvXuWk4kRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wLive on YouTube: http://podcastingmorningchat.com/joinusBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
Scrubs is getting a TV reboot, and that revival has a lesson for podcasters who want listeners to come back. Today, we look at how the Scrubs rewatch podcast keeps fans engaged and what it teaches us about building a show people stick with over time. We also talk about when a rewatch format works and how to borrow the idea for your own podcast. Then I share the exact AI prompt I used to pull a tight highlight from a clip we played from that Scrubs companion show, trimming it down into something clean and post-ready. We wrap the week sharing wins and celebrating our accomplishments. Episode Highlights: [03:21] Monday's Obsession Worthy preview[04:47] Scrubs reboot clip and pop culture context[19:51] Reviewing your own back catalog for improvement[21:48] Coaching, feedback, and self-critique[30:39] Learning to love your own voice[35:14] Building or finding an uplifting community[36:27] Cutting clips with ChatGPT: the 3-minute to 32-second workflow[42:12] Hallucinations, human QA, and quality control[46:49] Wins of the weekLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingBook A Free Call With Me: https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycallJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U57S-XgoA/viewform?usp=headerRiverside: https://www.riverside.fm/?via=0676daMy Content Editing Chat GPT Prompt: https://chatgpt.com/share/69a18136-06b0-8004-9ce7-736c5d43232eNo Such Thing As a Fish: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZB6NvXuWk4kRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wLive on YouTube: http://podcastingmorningchat.com/joinusBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
Ever get something “free” for your podcast or creator work and think, awesome, no cost, no problem, then find out later why the IRS sent you a bill? Maybe it's a “gifted” product, a free month of a tool, a comped hotel for an event, or a brand sending you gear in exchange for a mention. Today, we dig deeper into one of yesterday's questions, inspired by a news story shared by our co-host Ralph Estep Jr., and we get real about what counts as income for creators, even when no cash hits your bank account. We talk about fair market value and what “reasonable” write-offs look like. Go back to Episode 461 to hear the full story and our initial conversation, then stick around as we keep the mailbag rolling with practical questions about gear and setup choices, including how to think about what's actually worth buying when you're building your show on a budget.Episode Highlights: [05:32] When wardrobe is actually tax-deductible[15:27] Swag, lotteries, donations, and documentation[21:17] Mailbag: beginner podcast setup question[25:41] Testing your camera setup before committing[31:08] Start simple before upgrading gear[40:00] Consultation and planning advice[43:19] Riverside AI YouTube thumbnail generator previewLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingBook A Free Call With Me: https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycallJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U57S-XgoA/viewform?usp=headerHere's What You Need To Report to the IRS and Why: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/content-creation-profitable-gig-irs-140000780.htmlJunaid's Gear Guide: https://homestudiomastery.com/gear-guideRalph Estep Jr: www.contentcreatorsaccountant.comThe Estep Group Commercial (2005): https://youtu.be/zoefGJmPVEQ?si=reW-eO757CW4Lp94Rodecaster Pro 2: https://amzn.to/41h9yuNRiverside: https://www.riverside.fm/?via=0676daRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wLive on YouTube: http://podcastingmorningchat.com/joinusBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
Apple's video announcement is stirring the pot again, and it's funny because the gurus will remind you Apple always had video; that is true, but it just wasn't widely used, or easy to roll out at scale. What's changed now is the path feels more built out for creators, and the playback experience is more familiar for listeners. We've got some spicy hot takes about what Apple gets right, and why the hype can be louder than the reality. We also share a smart money reminder for creators: freebies, barter, gifts, and even prizes can be taxable income, whether a 1099 shows up or not. We also hit a headline about a major late-night name saying podcasting grew their reach beyond TV, and we close with quick Ambies highlights worth studying.Episode Highlights: [03:03] Weekly podcast publishing stats[06:14] Spotify and Apple top charts[08:15] Upcoming podcasting events and conferences[11:32] Ralph's business bite on creator taxes[15:26] Gifts, barter deals, and deductible expenses[23:37] Video hype versus audio reality[37:39] HLS streaming and what's actually new[41:41] Conan O'Brien and podcast audience power[47:24] 2026 Ambies highlights and notable momentsLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingBook A Free Call With Marc Ronick: https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycallJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U57S-XgoA/viewform?usp=headerPodNews:www.Podnews.netHere's What You Need To Report to the IRS and Why: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/content-creation-profitable-gig-irs-140000780.htmlRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wLive on YouTube: http://podcastingmorningchat.com/joinusBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
Is Substack the next best place to grow your podcast, or just one more platform to juggle? Today, we talk about how to get real value from it. Co-host BC Babbles has been on Substack for a while and even hosts one of his podcasts there, so we ask what's working, what he's learned, and what best practices matter most. We also dig into how Substack helps you connect with listeners in a more personal way than traditional social media. Then we talk monetization, what people actually pay for, and how to offer value your audience will want to support.Episode Highlights: [03:02] Marc's wisdom teeth update[06:00] Substack 101 kickoff[13:40] Using Substack for blogs[16:00] SEO considerations and platform risks[26:45] Newsletter and monetization strategy[36:42] RSS redirects and hosting risks[39:34] Private feeds and paywalled access[44:40] Notes, referrals, and lead funnels[47:08] Monetization safety and Patreon comparison[52:02] Platform fees and audience fit[54:14] Substack as a link hub[55:45] Discoverability, algorithms, and platform shiftsLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingBook A Free Call With Me:https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycallJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U57S-XgoA/viewform?usp=headerCaffeination Nation: https://bit.ly/4s5KMtHHow Substack Approaches Moderation Decisions: https://bit.ly/3MNGLv4Remember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wLive on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@marcronickBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
How do you turn an abstract idea into a gripping audio experience? In this installment of our Obsession Worthy series, we study “Colors” by Radiolab and pull out what makes its production so effective. While Marc is out, Jonathan Howard and Ralph Estep Jr. lead the conversation and show us why this episode works so well. We talk about how the opening hooks you fast, and how multiple voices weave together to keep you locked in. If you want your podcast to feel more immersive, this breakdown will expand what you think is possible with audio.Episode Highlights: [01:38] Why Radiolab's “Colors” hooks you fast with sensation-first storytelling[04:06] Clip one breakdown: Newton's extreme curiosity and the shocking cold open[07:46] Clip two: mantis shrimp vision and choir-driven sound design[11:52] Sound design and pacing: why the choir works and creates an “inadequate” effect[14:58] Clip three: searching for the so-called tetrachromat and building tension[25:47] Tetrachromat advantage and training your eye for nuance[29:57] When podcasts go too deep: pacing, length, and format concerns[36:19] Labels versus wonder and whether language limits experience[43:44] What makes the episode obsession-worthy, and why uncertainty works[47:46] Production value, music licensing, and resource advantages[49:46] Podcast takeaways you can apply and newsjacking Links & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingBook A Free Call With Marc Ronick: https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycallJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U57S-XgoA/viewform?usp=headerRadio Lab https://radiolab.org/podcast/211119-colorsRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wLive on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@marcronickBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
If someone handed you $5,000 to invest in your podcast tomorrow, where would it go? Better gear, paid ads, media training, or maybe something else entirely? While Marc is out, Ralph Estep Jr. takes the lead and guides this week's listener mailbag as we wrestle with that exact question. We explore how to think about investing wisely, not just spending fast. From there, we briefly tackle how to prep for interviews without sounding scripted, and whether a pro setup really makes a difference when you are just starting your podcast journey. The theme running through it all is simple: growth comes from intention, not impulse. To close out the week, we share wins from inside our community and celebrate the progress happening behind the scenes. Episode Highlights: [02:09] Mailbag question one: If you had $5,000 to improve your podcast[09:38] Overcast promotion deep dive and what the metrics actually tell you[13:50] Bigger lesson: build skills and content before buying more tech[16:34] Mailbag question two: interview prep without sounding scripted[20:37] Using ChatGPT and Otter to build a run of show quickly[27:50] Professional setup versus starting simple with strong audio[32:16] Starting with your phone and building momentum[34:02] Post-production tools like Adobe Enhance and Auphonic[38:55] Audio first: clean source recording and expectations[41:44] Wins of the week and community shoutoutsLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingBook A Free Call With Me: https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycallJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U57S-XgoA/viewform?usp=headerRadio Lab https://radiolab.org/podcast/211119-colorsOvercast:www.overcast.fmAuphonic:www.Auphonic.comAdobe Podcast:https://podcast.adobe.com/en/enhanceRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wLive on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@marcronickBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
What actually makes podcasting worth it? Downloads, money, recognition, or something else entirely? While our fearless leader, Marc, is out, Ralph Estep Jr. takes the lead as we answer your questions from the mailbag and explore what progress and value really look like in podcasting. From there, we tackle a tough business question: when does it make sense to charge guests to be on your show? We weigh the pros and cons without taking sides. We also dig into cold PR emails and guest pitches, how to spot what's legit, and what deserves your time. Finally, we explore AI in editing. If your editor is using AI tools behind the scenes, should you care? We unpack trust, cost, and the balance between human skill and automation. If you're thinking about growth, sustainability, and where this industry is headed, this episode gives you practical insights.Episode Highlights: [02:01] Cold outreach podcast promotion offers: spam or legit?[08:13] When podcasting finally feels worth it and measuring progress beyond downloads[13:35] Guest pitch emails and PR agents: how to vet and respond[19:21] Should you charge guests? Reciprocity versus real production costs[29:59] Turning a podcast appearance into a broader marketing package[33:29] Should you care if your editor uses AI?[35:50] AI as a tool: balancing cost, speed, skill, and human oversight[47:19] Disclosure and regulation: Do you have to say AI was used?Links & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingBook A Free Call With Me: https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycallJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U57S-XgoA/viewform?usp=headerRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wLive on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@marcronickBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
What happens when a tech giant is accused of copying your voice? Podcast host David Greene is suing Google, claiming his voice was used to create an AI clone inside NotebookLM without his permission and raising serious questions about how far AI tools can go when training on public content. That is just one headline in this week's news roundup. We also look at Apple finally leaning into native video on its platform and ask the obvious question: Why now? Is this a response to YouTube and Spotify gaining ground, or a long-overdue shift in strategy? Plus, we touch on SAG-AFTRA and ongoing union conversations around AI. Big tech is making big moves, and tensions between platforms and creators continue to grow. Are we watching the start of a major reset in how voice, video, and ownership are regulated in podcasting?Episode Highlights: [03:56] Newsday metrics and Apple and Spotify top five charts[06:04] Upcoming podcasting events, conferences, and weekly meetup[08:13] Creator money tip on 1099-K traps, tracking income, and tax prep[17:09] Captivate hires Rob Walsh and Elsie Escobar[25:27] SAG-AFTRA vs.Netflix and defining the Pete Davidson show as a podcast[32:47] Concerns about union impact on indie podcasting[38:27] NPR's David Greene sues Google over AI voice likeness[45:06] Apple Podcasts expands native video distribution[49:24] Apple's long-term video strategy and hardware positioningLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingBook A Free Call With Me: https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycallJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U57S-XgoA/viewform?usp=headerPodnews: www.Podnews.netNPR's David Greene Sues Google Over AI Voice Cloning:www.washingtonpost.com/technology/2026/02/15/david-greene-google-ai-podcast SAG-Aftra and Netflix Agree on Terms for Pete Davidson Show https://variety.com/2026/digital/news/pete-davidson-show-sag-aftra-podcast-agreement-netflix-1236661709/Apple Goes All In On Video: https://podcasters.apple.com/video-apple-podcasts?src=emailRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wLive on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@marcronickBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
What makes a story so striking that it changes how you see the person telling it? In this installment of our Obsession Worthy series, we study the narrative craft behind the podcast Ear Hustle and what makes its storytelling so effective. Co-host Jonathan walks us through how layered sound design, emotional contrast, and thoughtful narration can shift perception and deepen listener connection. We explore how devices like curiosity loops and identity shifts reveal that structure is not accidental; it is intentional. This episode shows how production choices shape meaning and turn a simple story into something bingeable. We also examine the impact of ad placement on storytelling flow and what podcasters should consider when balancing monetization with emotional momentum. If you want your episodes to resonate more deeply, this conversation will change how you think about your production style and storytelling structure.Episode Highlights: [02:02] Four Years of PMC[09:00] Obsession-Worthy series: why Ear Hustle works[10:18] The universal doorway and flipping listener expectations[13:57] Why the opening pulls listeners in[23:50] Sound as foreshadowing and subtle emotional cues[26:11] Clip three and the messy middle: nurture and show-don't-tell[34:15] Improving ad strategy with placement and brand alignment[42:32] What makes it obsession-worthy: clarity, humanity, and structure[48:08] End-of-episode stingers and rewarding loyal listenersLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingBook A Free Call With Me: https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycallJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingEar Hustle: https://www.earhustlesq.com/episodes/2017/7/12/looking-outApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U57S-XgoA/viewform?usp=headerRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wLive on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@marcronickBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
It's Friday the 13th, so we're talking about the scary stuff… the habits that quietly drain the life out of a podcast. Not the obvious mistakes. The subtle ones. Today, we're reflecting on what can slowly stall your growth. We explore the lack of clarity, poor consistency, and the small choices that add up over time. We share about the practical shifts we've made that make a real difference, and remind you that growth rarely comes from perfection. It comes from intention. We also talk about ways to avoid burnout, and giving yourself permission to adjust when life happens. To close out the week, we celebrate wins from our community. Big and small. Because progress deserves to be recognized and cheered on. Episode Highlights: Episode Highlights: [02:40] What's quietly killing your podcast? [06:02] The importance of planning ahead [10:56] Managing expectations realistically [16:44] Balancing passion with practicality [26:29] The reality of podcasting success [33:42] Promoting yourself effectively [34:07] Mailbag segment with Sid [34:41] Podcast recording challenges [35:47] Exploring video recording alternatives [42:49] Wins and celebrationsLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingBook A Free Call With Me: https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycallJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U57S-XgoA/viewform?usp=headerSongs & Poems From A Hat Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1Bs6S5WMHPRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wLive on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@marcronickBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
Can a podcast be strong and still have room to grow? We're breaking down a recent episode of indie podcast, Movies in a Nutshell , and exploring what happens when a show gets most things right. Believe us, this episode leaves plenty to study. We unpack what worked, including their approach to segment structure and intentional ways to speak to both new and returning listeners. We also look at areas where a little polish could elevate the experience even more. Because the gap between good and great is often smaller than you think...Episode Highlights: [01:56] Podcast evaluation begins[02:51] First clip and podcast intro review[08:05] Explaining plosives and practical audio techniques[12:06] Intentional small talk and nostalgia[19:58] Referencing past episodes[26:44] Creating segments that engage an audience[29:32] Nostalgia and cultural context[31:51] Podcast structure and segment flow[33:55] Balancing new and returning audiences[41:42] Episode titles and SEO considerationsLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingBook A Free Call With Me: https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycallJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U57S-XgoA/viewform?usp=headerMovies in a Nutshell: https://pod.link/1156902852/episode/ZjNkYzI4NDUtZDExMi00NTZkLThkZTQtNGFhZTY5NGRlM2Yz?view=apps&sort=popularityRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wLive on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@marcronickBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
YouTube says it's cracking down on AI slop in 2026. At the same time, it's rolling out more AI tools for creators. So which is it? Today, we share more of YouTube's upcoming shakeups, including tighter standards around low-quality AI content and monetization shifts that could reshape how podcasters get discovered and paid. Is this a clean-up… or a quiet pivot? Since it's news day, we're also bringing you the latest headlines across the podcasting space. Rumble is pushing short-form video, and Bill Simmons is questioning YouTube's long-term strategy. And a new hosting platform is betting big on paywalls over downloads. If you want to stay ahead of platform shifts instead of reacting to them, this episode will get you thinking.Episode Highlights: [02:47] Vanderbilt University speaking engagement[05:27] Preview of an upcoming podcast evaluation[07:56] Podcast data and industry trends[08:57] Top podcasts on Spotify and Apple[10:27] Events and conferences[12:03] Content creator business tips[20:10] Hulu enters the podcast licensing race[27:52] New podcast trends and AI content removal[29:12] Debate on YouTube's viability for podcasts[39:30] YouTube's 2026 overhaul and built-in AI tools[45:16] True Fans and the paywall-first hosting modelLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingBook A Free Call With Me: https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycallJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U57S-XgoA/viewform?usp=headerUpcoming Evaluation Movies in a Nutshell: https://pod.link/1156902852/episode/ZjNkYzI4NDUtZDExMi00NTZkLThkZTQtNGFhZTY5NGRlM2Yz?view=apps&sort=popularityPodnews:www.podnews.netMeetup & Match Up Virtual Event Use Code PMC for Free Admission: https://luma.com/pdeventsEmpowered Podcasting Conference: http://empoweredpodcasting.comBig YouTube Shakeups: https://digiday.com/media/the-rundown-what-youtube-creators-should-expect-to-change-in-2026Previous Episode Discussing Substack: www.podpage.com/pmc/354-how-to-get-more-from-spotify-for-creators-with-chris-stoneHow to Monetize Your Content on Facebook: www.facebook.com/business/help/1049081556813520Remember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wLive on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@marcronickBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
Many podcasters hit a moment where they start asking themselves, Should I be publishing more often? Today's episode kicks off with a mailbag question from co-host Jonathan Howard that opens up an honest conversation about episode release frequency and the pressure to do more. From there, we dig into why more episodes do not automatically lead to more growth and how increasing your cadence without intention can quietly lead to burnout. The panel shares guiding principles around consistency, listener trust, sustainability, systems, and personal capacity without pushing a one-size-fits-all answer. Instead, we focus on helping you think clearly about what makes sense for your show. Regardless of whether you are new to podcasting or an experienced host feeling the weight of doing more, this episode offers reassurance and perspective so you can make smarter decisions about your release schedule and actually stick with them.Episode Highlights: [04:35] Breaking news on Alex Sanfilippo's Facebook ban[06:40] Discussion on platform ownership and control[17:17] Mailbag Q&A on show release frequency[26:38] Sid's experience with weekly publishing[35:22] Examining systems and sustainability[38:19] Annual peaks and valleys in podcast listenership[44:04] Planning content around audience emotionsLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingBook A Free Call With Me: https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycallAlex Sanfilippo's Facebook Account Banned by Meta: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7426653266471469056Podcasting Peaks and Valleys Question: www.reddit.com/r/podcasting/comments/1r06ukg/what_are_the_annual_peaks_and_valleys_for_podcastJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U57S-XgoA/viewform?usp=headerUpcoming Evaluation Movies in a Nutshell: https://pod.link/1156902852/episode/ZjNkYzI4NDUtZDExMi00NTZkLThkZTQtNGFhZTY5NGRlM2Yz?view=apps&sort=popularityRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wLive on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@marcronickBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
Great podcasts don't just share information. They guide listeners through an experience. In this installment of our Obsession Worthy Podcasts, co-host Jonathan Howard guides us on a close look at Hyperfixed to understand why some narrative shows are so easy to fall into and so hard to forget. Using this show as a case study, we explore how strong storytelling choices shape attention and keep listeners engaged from start to finish. We unpack what makes Hyperfixed obsession-worthy and how its design choices can spark new ideas for your show. This is for anyone who wants to tell better stories and experiment with structure, and our conversation might send you back to your own podcast with inspiration on how you can tell better stories. Episode Highlights: [01:46] Overview of the Hyper Fixed podcast[05:06] Discussion on narrative podcast storytelling[13:22] Building tension and emotional connection[17:51] The role of AI in storytelling[22:03] Curiosity loops and pacing[26:03] Initial takeaways and reflections[28:10] The role of the host in podcast success[28:39] Building curiosity and emotional engagement[32:37] Crafting intentional and impactful content[41:54] Super Bowl commercials discussionLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingHyperfixed:www.hyperfixedpod.com/listen/hyperfixed/two-birds-one-hundred-stonesApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U57S-XgoA/viewform?usp=headerBook A Free Call With Me: https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycallUpcoming Evaluation Movies in a Nutshell: https://pod.link/1156902852/episode/ZjNkYzI4NDUtZDExMi00NTZkLThkZTQtNGFhZTY5NGRlM2Yz?view=apps&sort=popularityRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wLive on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@marcronickBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
What do you do when hateful comments land harder than you expect? Today, we're cracking into the mailbag and starting with a candid conversation about dealing with trolls and the inner critic that can flare up when your work is put out in public. That's just one of the listener questions we tackle. We also continue the ongoing audio vs. video discussion, exploring why this question keeps coming up and what podcasters should consider before changing their format or adding more to their workflow. To wrap up a valuable week of conversations, we share a round of wins from our community and take a moment to celebrate progress, growth, and showing up. Episode Highlights: [05:43] Mailbag: listener feedback on promoting older episodes[09:27] Handling hateful comments[18:43] Audio versus video for guest interviews[30:29] Starting with audio and overcoming barriers[31:46] Improving Zoom quality with practical tips[36:25] Standing firm in your podcasting strategy[37:51] Balancing video and audio podcasting[44:11] Wins of the week and celebrating successes[46:39] Community, collaboration, and supportLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U57S-XgoA/viewform?usp=headerBook A Free Call With Me: https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycallUpcoming Obsession Worthy Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/two-birds-one-hundred-stones/id1762447440?i=1000696517634Upcoming Evaluation, "Movies in a Nutshell": https://pod.link/1156902852/episode/ZjNkYzI4NDUtZDExMi00NTZkLThkZTQtNGFhZTY5NGRlM2Yz?view=apps&sort=popularityImprove Your Zoom Audio & Video Quality:https://bit.ly/4bGrc2sRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wLive on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@marcronickBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
Do you really need massive download numbers to earn an income in podcasting? Today, we're digging into the mailbag to answer listener questions that get to the heart of how podcasts actually grow and earn. We start with a smart question about marketing your back catalog and why older episodes can still work for your show long after they're published. That conversation opens the door to discussion on podcast sponsorships. Co-host Sid breaks down how independent podcasters can think about pricing in a way that makes sense for smaller, loyal audiences. Instead of chasing download counts or copying what big shows do, we talk about understanding your costs, the value of your audience, and why monetization is something you build toward over time. This doesn't happen overnight, and it's part of the process. If you're an indie podcaster trying to figure out what sponsorships could look like for your show, this episode offers an intentional way to think about value and long-term sustainability.Episode Highlights: [03:41] Breaking news on the Substack data breach[05:21] Password security tips and best practices[09:32] Marketing your podcast's back catalog[27:43] Analyzing data in Apple Podcasts Connect[29:49] The Wheel of Jargon: understanding podcast terms[32:21] Understanding shadow banning on social media[38:09] Deciding sponsorship rates for your podcast[39:04] Sid's sponsorship strategy and real-world success[43:38] Understanding the value of your podcast audienceLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U57S-XgoA/viewform?usp=headerBook A Free Call With Me: https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycallThe Trend Report with Sid Meadows: https://www.sidmeadows.com/podcastRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wLive on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@marcronickBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
Joe Rogan made headlines this week by refusing to pay the $500 entry fee required to be considered for a Golden Globe. Was it a publicity move, or simply someone who doesn't need another trophy to prove a point? On today's news day, that moment became the spark for a much larger conversation about power, recognition, and how podcasting is colliding with mainstream media. From there, we widen the lens to look at the shifts shaping the industry right now. We unpack new platform moves, evolving rules around monetization, growing conversations about AI-generated voices, and what all of it means for indie podcasters. We also take a closer look at Open Claw, an emerging AI tool that hints at where true digital assistants may be headed.Episode Highlights: [02:43] Top podcasts on Spotify and Apple[04:15] Upcoming podcasting events[09:59] Apple's new billing rule and what it means for Patreon creators[16:56] Substack's new TV app[22:23] New York's AI voice regulation bill[26:16] Legal implications of AI in podcasting[28:31] Joe Rogan and the Golden Globes controversy[35:38] South by Southwest and Podcast Movement Evolutions[42:40] Introducing Open Claw and the future of AI assistantsLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U57S-XgoA/viewform?usp=headerPodNews:www.podnews.netPodcasthon: https://podcasthon.orgCBC Podcasts Accepting Pitches: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfJMh0HVboS2Wlt773SLJe1IvBaHVst9Fr954bBtHnwjQcCWw/viewformMeet Up & Match Up: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfJMh0HVboS2Wlt773SLJe1IvBaHVst9Fr954bBtHnwjQcCWw/viewformWaves Audio: https://www.waves.com/voice-regenJoe Rogan's Take on Not Winning a Golden Globe Award:https://variety.com/2026/digital/news/joe-rogan-not-nominated-golden-globes-podcast-award-submission-fee-1236644807/SXSW Welcomes Podcasting to the Big Stage: https://www.netinfluencer.com/podcasting-claims-its-seat-at-sxsw-as-measurement-roi-conversations-intensifyOpen Claw: https://openclaw.aiThree Peaks Retreat: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/891499709595204971?viralityEntryPoint=1&s=76&source_impression_id=p3_1770218315_P31LWTuSPuj2x56RRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wLive on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@marcronickBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
Today, we're asking you to rethink how you judge progress in podcasting. Is it really about choosing quantity or quality, or does the answer depend on where you are and what you're building? In this installment of our Obsession Worthy Podcasts series, led by co-host Jonathan Howard, we break down How I Built This, focusing on the Taylor Guitars episode. We look closely at how a strong cold open widens the audience, builds curiosity, and signals that a show is worth sticking with. From there, the conversation moves into systems, completion, and why finished work teaches you more than half-done ideas ever will. Hopefully, after hearing this, you'll consider the process and rethink what growth actually looks like when you're trying to build a podcast with staying power. Episode Highlights: [03:04] Flight delays and boarding frustrations[05:06] Customer service lessons from a travel experience[15:07] Obsession-worthy podcast series overview[26:15] The origin story behind Taylor Guitars[31:38] Balancing cold opens for video and audio[35:17] Why human stories matter in podcasting[43:53] The quality versus quantity debate[53:56] Taylor Swift guitar storyLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U57S-XgoA/viewform?usp=headerHow I Built This: https://wondery.com/shows/how-i-built-this/episode/10386-taylor-guitars-kurt-listug-and-bob-taylor-from-3700-shop-to-global-icon/Remember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wLive on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@marcronickBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
The most compelling interviews don't start when you hit record. They start before your guest ever shows up. Today, we're talking about why pre-interviews are not extra work. They are more like insurance. We walk through how a short pre-interview can prevent awkward moments, poor energy, and the dreaded moment when your guest drifts off topic. This conversation is especially helpful for newer podcasters booking guests and for experienced hosts who want smoother, more focused interviews. To wrap up the week, we take a moment to share the wins happening in our community, no matter how big or small.Episode Highlights: [01:44] Why pre-interviews matter[03:42] Key elements of effective pre-interviews[04:01] Personal experiences using pre-interviews[07:24] Handling sensitive topics with care[17:59] Common challenges and best practices[27:45] Supporting nervous or long-winded guests[28:47] Maintaining energy during recordings[31:33] Making smart adjustments in real time[40:11] Celebrating WinsLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingEmpowered Podcasting Conference 3: Use discount code ‘Podfest26' to get your ticket for under $200: https://empoweredpodcasting.comApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U57S-XgoA/viewform?usp=headerRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wLive on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@marcronickBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
There's a familiar kind of stress that comes from caring about your podcast and not knowing if you're doing it “right.” Today, we're opening up the mailbag and addressing the kinds of questions that quietly weigh on podcasters. We explore how timing, platforms, and audience habits really intersect. We also discuss writer's block and how better systems can help you move forward without waiting for inspiration to strike. Finally, we dig into a question from a camping podcast about gaining listener support when audiences are living their busy and active lives. We focus on meeting listeners where they already are and making support feel natural, not awkward. Episode Highlights: [05:51] Mailbag discussion on when to release episodes [15:10] Mailbag discussion on overcoming writer's block[24:02] Reworking and reusing past content[24:50] Special ticket offer for the Empowered Podcasting Conference[26:01] Listener feedback from Vanessa[37:48] Encouraging listener support and engagement[44:12] Preview of our upcoming episode on pre-interviewsLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingEmpowered Podcasting Conference 3: Use discount code ‘Podfest26' to get your ticket for under $200: https://empoweredpodcasting.comApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U57S-XgoA/viewform?usp=headerRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wLive on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@marcronickBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
TikTok just updated its terms, and it's one of those changes that's easy to scroll past but hard to ignore once you slow down and read it. Recent platform updates raise important questions about ownership, precise location data, and what creators are actually agreeing to when they publish their work. Today, we take a look at what changed and why it matters if you're building anything that lasts. We also zoom out to see where podcasting fits into the bigger picture. Recent studies show podcast ads outperform YouTube when it comes to driving real results. If you're a Mac user, we break down Apple's new Creator Studio bundle and the value it offers with tools like Logic Pro and Final Cut Pro. Apps that once required separate purchases are now bundled together, raising an important question: Is this a response to creators looking for alternatives to the increasingly expensive Adobe suite? Listen in to learn what changes are coming and how you can best prepare. Episode Highlights: [02:27] Podcast evaluations explained[04:33] Statistics and industry trends[05:29] Top shows on Spotify and Apple[11:15] Empowered Podcasting Conference updates[17:32] Odyssey and Fountain platform updates[21:24] Apple's new Creator Studio subscription bundle[27:26] Debating the price hike and whether it's justified[31:07] Sean Bean joins Get Birding as a new podcast host[37:07] Charmed stars launch a new club inspired by P3[40:28] TikTok's new terms and what they mean for users[48:07] Podcast ads versus YouTube ads: which performs betterLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingPodcaster Directory Event Use Discount Code ‘PMC for free admission: http://podcastersdirectory.comEmpowered Podcasting Conference 3: Use discount code ‘Podfest26' to get your ticket for under $200: https://empoweredpodcasting.comWorld's most followed TikToker closes nearly $900 Million Deal: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us-streamers/worlds-most-followed-tiktoker-khaby-lame-closes-nearly-900m-business-deal/articleshow/127328336.cmsPodNews: www.podnews.netPodcast News Daily: www.podcastnewsdaily.comSean Bean announced as new host of award winning get birding podcast: https://podnews.net/press-release/sean-bean-get-birdingLate Bloomer Living: https://www.latebloomerliving.com/blog/episode-257Podcast ads beat YouTube where it hurts: www.podcastnewsdaily.com/news/audio-is-the-performance-unlock-for-digital-campaigns/article_565b0a8e-96ea-445e-b616-91ede8d9d28e.htmlApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U57S-XgoA/viewform?usp=headerRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wLive on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@marcronickBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
What makes a podcast worth coming back to again and again? What turns a single episode into something listeners want to sit with, revisit, and recommend? Today, we continue with another installment of Jonathan Howard's Obsession-Worthy Podcast series, using Song Exploder as a case study to explore what makes a podcast truly re-listenable. We take a closer look at an episode, breaking down Fleetwood Mac's Go Your Own Way, focusing less on the song itself and more on how the story is told. We explore how clear structure, intentional editing, and listener-first decisions build trust. We talk about why strong questions don't need to be heard to be felt, and how letting listeners experience uncertainty, decision-making, and emotional stakes keeps them engaged. If you interview guests or tell stories on your show, this episode offers a lasting reminder: obsession-worthy podcasts are designed with the listener in mind. Where could you let your listeners hear the moment something clicked?This episode includes brief music excerpts used for educational and commentary purposes. We do not own the rights to the music featured.Episode Highlights: [07:41] What makes this episode obsession-worthy? [11:31] Breaking down Fleetwood Mac's “Go Your Own Way”[22:12] An emotional opening and the songwriting process[28:00] Applying creative processes beyond music[30:09] Exploring song lyrics and personal storytelling[35:16] Storytelling elements in podcasting[41:01] Asking better questions and interview techniques[43:04] Podcast evaluations and community building[46:02] What's coming nextLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingEmpowered Podcasting Conference Course with Recordings: https://ironickmedia.com/courses/epc2025/Empowered Podcasting Conference 3: Use discount code ‘Podfest26' to get your ticket for under $200: https://empoweredpodcasting.comApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U57S-XgoA/viewform?usp=headerSong Exploder “Go Your Own Way” https://songexploder.net/fleetwood-macRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wLive on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@marcronickBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
Podcasting can feel lonely when you're stuck making decisions no one prepared you for. The technical choices, the workflow questions, the moments where you can't help but wonder if you're overthinking everything or missing something obvious. We get it. We've been there. Today, we open the mailbag and respond to real questions submitted by podcasters navigating both the technical and non-technical sides of the craft. From platform frustrations to workflow doubts, the team slows the conversation down and thinks things through together, offering perspective without panic or pressure. You may hear your own challenges reflected in these questions. If you have podcast-related questions of your own, you're always welcome to submit them through the Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group using the link below. We're always happy to help. Toward the end of the show, we shift gears and share our wins from the week, celebrating the progress, milestones, and accomplishments happening across the community.Episode Highlights: [02:00] Diving into the listener mailbag[02:51] Jeff's Riverside recording issues[05:08] Advice and troubleshooting for Jeff's setup[07:28] Exploring alternative recording and workflow tools[18:01] Question on guest management[31:03] Taking ownership of podcast promotion[31:28] Building an effective guest workflow[32:06] Collaborating with guests to promote episodes[36:35] Concerns about podcast hosting platforms[44:19] Wins from the weekLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingEmpowered Podcasting Conference Course with Recordings: https://ironickmedia.com/courses/epc2025/Empowered Podcasting Conference 3: Use discount code ‘Podfest26' to get your ticket for under $200: https://empoweredpodcasting.comApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U57S-XgoA/viewform?usp=headerPodpage: https://www.podpage.com/?via=ironickmedia&u=515146796&ch=Mzrg46OpLate Bloomer Living: https://www.latebloomerliving.com/blog/episode-257Riverside: https://www.riverside.fm/?via=0676daPodMatch: https://podmatch.com/?ref=1646144442692x331135044042346200Libsyn: www.lybsyn.com Capcut: www.capcut.com Captivate: https://www.captivate.fmNotion:www.notion.comTrello: https://trello.comClickups: https://clickup.com/downloadRalph Estep's Guest Appearance with Rob Greenlee on The New Media Show: www.youtube.com/live/MHr3B3tF7cQ?si=stvLoQowgOoGtxQ5Katie Brinkley: https://katiebrinkley.comRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wLive on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@marcronickBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
Small performance and production choices can subtly affect how a podcast is experienced. Today, we're taking a close look at Life Fulfilled, a solo podcast hosted by Bernie Borges. We want to be clear that we aren't aiming to tear podcasters down. We are listening carefully and noticing how structure, pacing, delivery, and production decisions shape trust with an audience, and we hope to pass along these insights to benefit you. We walk through the episode calling out what's working, where delivery could be stronger, and how subtle adjustments can improve the listening experience. Submitting your podcast for evaluation takes intention. It's a sign you care about your craft and want to grow. Our conversation reflects that mindset, offering practical insights you can apply to your own show as you continue to refine how it sounds, feels, and lands with your budding community. Episode Highlights: [02:06] Purpose and approach of podcast evaluations[08:07] Branding and positioning feedback[10:02] Website experience and user journey[18:47] Episode titles and keyword strategy[28:05] Introducing themes of fulfillment and clarity[28:41] Audio and video track considerations[31:08] Empowered Podcasting Conference announcement[33:25] Feedback on presentation and delivery[44:26] Midroll ad placement and transition flow[53:06] Audio quality and technical improvement tipsLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingEmpowered Podcasting Conference Course with Recordings: https://ironickmedia.com/courses/epc2025/Empowered Podcasting Conference 3: Use discount code ‘Podfest26' to get your ticket for under $200: https://empoweredpodcasting.comApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U57S-XgoA/viewform?usp=headerLife Fulfilled: https://fulfilledatworkacademy.com/podcast/stop-chasing-fulfillment-build-it-through-self-discovery/Auphonic: www.auphonic.com Adobe Podcast: https://podcast.adobe.com/en/enhanceRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wLive on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@marcronickBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
What happens when the tools we trust for clear answers start coming with ads attached? Today's news and commentary conversation opens with growing chatter about ads potentially entering ChatGPT, then widens to a bigger pattern showing up across subscription platforms like Netflix and beyond. We unpack what these shifts could mean as ads become more common in spaces that once felt clean and uninterrupted. We share our thoughts on trust, platform control, and how easily “helpful” can start to feel sponsored. We also touch on more podcast industry headlines, platform moves, and why some changes feel familiar if you've been around long enough. We saved you a seat at the table. Come sit with us while we make sense of it.Episode Highlights: [03:22] Podcast data insights[04:29] Top podcasts on Spotify and Apple[06:02] Upcoming events[08:43] Business news: ads in ChatGPT[28:12] Apple Podcasts' record-breaking year and platform innovations[29:31] Hollywood bites and the Smallville controversy[36:30] Pete Davidson's new Netflix show[45:50] Evaluating the future of podcasting on Netflix[51:08] Upcoming podcast evaluation Links & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingEmpowered Podcasting Conference Course with Recordings: https://ironickmedia.com/courses/epc2025/Empowered Podcasting Conference 3: Use discount code ‘Podfest26' to get your ticket for under $200: https://empoweredpodcasting.comApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U57S-XgoA/viewform?usp=headerPodfest: https://podfestexpo.comPodcasters Directory: https://www.podcastersdirectory.comAds Coming to Chat GPT: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1AWdasS4f4Late Bloomer Living: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QAiGVgGTqt4Get to know the PMC team:https://www.podpage.com/pmc/about/Goodbye, YouTube. Hello, Netflix Takeover: https://www.thewrap.com/media-platforms/tv/netflix-podcasts-january-2026Remember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wLive on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@marcronickBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
What happens when you go from feeling like an outsider to being named Community Hero? We're reflecting on last week's Podfest 2026 in Orlando, Florida. After five years of walking through those doors, unsure of where I fit, receiving an unexpected award caught me completely off guard. But this isn't just my story. It's about what happens when podcasters show up for each other. Many of us from the Empowered Podcasting community were there, sharing the moments that mattered most and why Podfest continues to feel like a family reunion even for first-timers. Whether you attended or followed along from afar, this conversation brings you right into the room with us. Maybe it's time you showed up and let the community meet you where you are.Episode Highlights: [02:08] PodFest recap begins[03:42] Memorable moments and awards[08:01] Networking and community building[10:31] Full-circle moments and collaborations[13:22] Challenges and overcoming obstacles[17:35] Surprising moments and early reflections[28:16] Navigating PodFest with practical tips and experiences[31:26] Reflections from a podcasting veteran[38:58] Advice for first-time conference attendees[43:31] Areas for improvement and constructive feedbackLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingEmpowered Podcasting Conference Course with Recordings: https://ironickmedia.com/courses/epc2025/Empowered Podcasting Conference 3: Use discount code ‘Podfest26' to get your ticket for under $200: https://empoweredpodcasting.comApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U57S-XgoA/viewform?usp=headerPodfest: https://podfestexpo.comAnika Jackson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anikajacksonRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wLive on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@marcronickBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
Most podcasters don't quit because they fail; they quit because they stop recognizing their progress. Today, we take a closer look at what real wins actually look like when you're in the work week after week. While our lead host, Marc, is at PodFest, Ralph Estep takes the wheel and guides us through a poignant discussion on recognizing wins beyond the numbers and not taking your accomplishments for granted. We share heartfelt examples of progress that are easy to overlook: showing up on a hard day, helping one listener, or simply staying consistent when motivation dips. Momentum isn't always loud; in fact, it can be quiet. Redefining progress is one of the best ways to avoid burnout and stay in the podcasting game.Sometimes, staying in it is the win.To honor Martin Luther King Jr. Day, there will be no show on Monday, January 19th. Join us on Tuesday, January 20th, 2026, for more conversations on podcasting.Episode Highlights: [03:18] Recognizing wins we often overlook[16:55] Self-talk and breaking negative habits[23:16] Overcoming self-sabotage[24:59] Why motivation and knowledge both matter[27:20] Making a positive impact on others[36:41] Sharing personal wins from the community[41:55] Repeating intentional wins and releasing what drains you[42:40] Consistency, mindset, and sustainable momentumLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingEmpowered Podcasting Conference Course with Recordings: https://ironickmedia.com/courses/epc2025/Application To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U57S-XgoA/viewform?usp=headerPodfest: https://podfestexpo.comWhat to Say When You Talk To Yourself: https://a.co/d/dNFxaQURemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wLive on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@marcronickBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
Have you ever received feedback on your podcast that just didn't sit right, but you couldn't tell if it was something to fix or something to ignore? While our fearless leader, Marc, is at Podfest, co-host Ralph Estep steps in to guide a thoughtful conversation about feedback and how podcasters can take it in without getting defensive or second-guessing everything they're building. This episode centers on one key idea: not everyone gets a vote in your podcast. We explore how feedback often shows up messy, or wrapped in someone else's opinion, and why that doesn't mean it all carries the same weight. We talk about how to ask for better feedback, how to separate useful information from personal reaction, and how to test small changes without blowing up your entire show. If you care deeply about your work and want to grow without spiraling, this conversation offers clarity, perspective, and reassurance. You're not alone in figuring this out. And it's worth asking: who does get a vote in your show?Episode Highlights: [02:44] Personal experiences with feedback[06:00] Handling negative feedback[16:15] Asking effective feedback questions[23:20] Deciding who gets a vote in your show[27:16] Soliciting feedback from your audience[29:03] Building relationships with guests[31:45] Why pre-interviews lead to stronger podcasts[33:15] Leveraging peer groups for growth[39:10] Investing in podcast SEO[44:55] Measuring podcast successLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingEmpowered Podcasting Conference Course with Recordings: https://ironickmedia.com/courses/epc2025/Application To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U57S-XgoA/viewform?usp=headerPodfest: https://podfestexpo.comRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wLive on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@marcronickBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
The Golden Globes crowned a podcast winner, Netflix leaned further into podcast deals, and Spotify shifted the rules again. Big headlines are everywhere, but are they actually beneficial for indie podcasters? Today's conversation breaks down what's making waves across the industry, including awards, ads, platform power, and what happens when podcasting gets Hollywood attention. There's excitement around visibility and growth, and there's discomfort around who gets recognized and who gets left out. We unpack how these moves affect indie and commercially successful podcasters, as well as prestige versus sustainability, attention versus trust, and why not every big industry moment translates into real support for creators.Episode Highlights: [01:58] Listener mail featuring Joshua's letter[07:05] Podcast news and updates[15:11] Ralph's business bite[16:50] Spotify's big move for video podcasters[21:14] Netflix enters the podcast era[26:43] iHeartMedia's new platform integrations[29:12] Concerns about ads in podcasts[30:56] Celebrity podcasts: hits and misses[37:34] SEO boosts using Podpage[40:09] Golden Globes introduces a Best Podcast category[46:24] Reflections on the Golden Globes and what it signals for podcastingLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingEmpowered Podcasting Conference Course with Recordings: https://ironickmedia.com/courses/epc2025/Application To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U57S-XgoA/viewform?usp=headerPodfest: https://podfestexpo.comDiscover Pods:https://discoverpods.com/aboutPodNews: www.Podnews.net Spotify Makes it Easier for Creators to Earn: https://www.reuters.com/business/media-telecom/spotify-makes-it-easier-creators-earn-reveals-10-billion-podcast-spend-2026-01-07Netflix is officially in its Podcast Era: https://www.podcastnewsdaily.com/news/podcast-news-bites-netflix-the-ringer-true-native-media-dina-temple-raston/article_afb40e07-17d3-427e-b035-e1533ae0bddb.htmliHeart Media Wants Your Podcast Everywhere and on Everythinghttps://www.podcastnewsdaily.com/news/iheartmedia-unveils-new-platform-integrations-at-ces-2026/article_c8928609-91c6-45e1-8ea9-7bf3758361a2.htmlPodpage Unveils Automated SEO Boost for Podcastshttps://www.podpage.com/?via=ironickmedia Podcasts Hit Golden Globes: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/01/11/business/media/golden-globes-podcasts.htmlHost Nikki Glaser Welcomes us to the Podcast Era, 83rd Annual Golden Globes:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tZMMVK7mkoURemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wLive on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@marcronickBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
Walking into your first podcast conference can feel exciting and overwhelming all at once, especially with Podfest right around the corner. You're scanning the schedule, wondering who to talk to, what sessions to attend, and whether you're really “ready” to be there. Today, we're talking openly about what it's like to show up to a conference, how to navigate the rooms, conversations, and social energy mentally. We're sharing our real experiences along with thoughtful guidance on setting intentions, managing overwhelm, and finding your footing without trying to do everything at once. Whether this is your very first Podfest or just your next one, this episode helps you walk in ready. We will see you there! Episode Highlights: [01:51] Anxiety and preparation for public speaking[04:22] Strategies for overcoming speaking anxiety[18:56] Mind mapping and final preparations[21:37] Networking tips for podcast conferences[31:29] PodFest wellness area[34:40] Using the Whova app for conference connections[36:47] Prioritizing talks and meaningful connections[42:47] Financial tips for conference goers[46:19] Setting intentions before conferences[48:14] Business cards versus digital contactsLinks & Resources: Join The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingEmpowered Podcasting Conference Course with Recordings: https://ironickmedia.com/courses/epc2025/Application To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U57S-XgoA/viewform?usp=headerPodfest: https://podfestexpo.comRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wLive on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@marcronickBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com
Jonathan Howard takes the wheel and leads us for a close look at another obsession-worthy podcast, Diary of a CEO. Why do some interviews stay with you long after they end? What makes a conversation feel human instead of rehearsed? And what happens when a host stops chasing the right question and starts listening for what's being said? Using a powerful episode featuring Simon Sinek, we revisit how trust, presence, and active listening create interviews that feel unforgettable. We unpack why great conversations aren't built from clever prompts, but from curiosity, and the courage to follow the moment. This episode is for podcasters and interviewers who rely on question lists and feel something's missing. You may find yourself noticing where you rush, where you steer, and where deeper moments are waiting if you slow down. You're not alone in figuring this out. We're learning it together.Episode Highlights: [01:45] What makes Diary of a CEO special[03:34] Intimacy and vulnerability[06:44] Steven Bartlett's interview style[15:12] Balancing exploration and focus in interviews[26:33] Asking the right questions[29:57] Leadership and loneliness[32:18] Strength found in truth[40:43] Serving your audience with intentionLinks & Resources: Join The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingEmpowered Podcasting Conference Course with Recordings: https://ironickmedia.com/courses/epc2025/Application To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U57S-XgoA/viewform?usp=headerPodfest: https://podfestexpo.comDiary of A CEO: How to Deal with Loneliness: www.youtube.com/watch?v=D46zvJI-njURemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wLive on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@marcronick
If your podcast workflow feels messy, layered, or harder than it used to be, this episode is for you. Today's conversation was fueled by a Facebook post by producer, Ashley, and a feeling many podcasters quietly recognize: production workflows can become intensive, tools multiply, and suddenly your process feels like it's slowing you down instead of helping you move forward. We talk openly about how workflows evolve as podcasters gain experience, and why friction doesn't mean failure! Often, it's graduation that leads to progress. To wrap up the week, we share weekly wins and celebrate successes throughout our community. Episode Highlights: [02:03] Upcoming events and personal reflections[02:50] Empowered Podcasting Conference on demand[04:05] Diving into production workflows[09:34] Choosing the right tools for your workflow[11:35] Having a workflow system[22:46] Exploring all-in-one solutions[27:49] Transitioning to new tools[47:09] Celebrating wins from the week Links & Resources: Join The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingEmpowered Podcasting Conference Course with Recordings: https://ironickmedia.com/courses/epc2025/Application To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U57S-XgoA/viewform?usp=headerGreg Edits Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PK1NmZ40RXMPodGlue: https://app.podglue.comJim Polito Show: https://wtag.iheart.com/featured/the-jim-polito-showMTown Forever: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3D4qqDyiYXoPodfest: https://podfestexpo.comRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wOr Join us on Chatter: https://preview.chattersocial.io/group/98a69881-f328-4eae-bf3c-9b0bb741481dLive on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@marcronickBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
Your podcast already has a differentiator. The question is whether listeners feel it. Today, we're evaluating the podcast “Better Call Daddy,” and we explore how small production choices either support or bury what makes a show stand out in the crowd. We talk about intros, pacing, framing, and clarity, and how these details shape the experience for someone pressing play for the first time. We reflect on what helps a differentiator land clearly, where it gets lost, and how subtle edits can make a show feel more focused and inviting. If you enjoy refining your craft, this episode offers a thoughtful way to listen back to your own work and ensure that what sets your podcast apart is clearly coming through.Episode Highlights: [03:05] Breaking news in podcasting[07:39] First impressions of Better Call Daddy[13:34] Discussion of the Better Call Daddy intro[24:23] Branding and cover art analysis[27:27] Podcast titles and overall branding discussion[30:35] Audience engagement and show structure[32:33] SEO considerations and naming challenges[38:51] Managing long-form interviews with celebrities [54:27] Final takeaways: clarity, editing choices, and protecting emotional impactLinks & Resources: Join The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingEmpowered Podcasting Conference Course with Recordings: https://ironickmedia.com/courses/epc2025/Call Her Daddy: https://pod.link/1525296416/episode/YmV0dGVyY2FsbGRhZGR5LnBvZGJlYW4uY29tL2IxZDgzMDdlLTViZTktMzcyNS04ZjJhLWQyNmEwYjE5N2NhZgApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U57S-XgoA/viewform?usp=headerRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wOr Join us on Chatter: https://preview.chattersocial.io/group/98a69881-f328-4eae-bf3c-9b0bb741481dLive on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@marcronickBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
What if your podcast could be reused and resold without you ever knowing? One of today's leading stories looks at a new tool that strips ads from episodes and resells ad-free versions without creators' permission. The conversation raises uncomfortable questions about podcast ownership, revenue loss, and what happens when third parties repackage your work outside the systems you rely on. We talk through how this kind of reuse could affect host-read ads and even listener trust. That discussion sets the tone for a wider news and commentary conversation about what's happening across podcasting right now. We walk through several updates across podcasting, ads, listening behavior, and creator tools, including shifting at-home listening habits. Episode Highlights: [02:10] Tips on updating your copyright notice for 2026[05:29] Podcasting news and statistics[10:59] Upcoming events and announcements[15:39] Content creators Business Bite [30:18] Trends in at-home audio consumption[34:03] Meta's new AI tool for audio editing[42:51] Podcast and streaming advertising opportunities[44:22] Host-read ads versus pre-produced adsLinks & Resources: Join The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingEmpowered Podcasting Conference Course with Recordings: https://ironickmedia.com/courses/epc2025/Our upcoming podcast evaluation: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1C7Uwux1TEvKiGmrvFt9d3?si=31027af293654f7aPodcasting Made Simple: https://podnews.net/event/podcasting-made-simple-live-7MeetUp & Matchup Event Use Code “PMC” For Free Admission: https://luma.com/ys7q800ePodcast Expo: https://podfestexpo.comThe Tool Copying Podcasts, Stripping Ads, and Selling Them: https://podnews.net/article/podcastadblock-strips-ads-and-sells-showsLiving Room Podcasting Podcast Viewing Hits 700 Million Hours: www.podcastnewsdaily.com/news/youtube-living-room-podcast-viewing-hits-700-million-hours/article_b6169e7d-66f7-491f-a758-8cfa76cbac9f.htmlSam Audio AI:https://sam-audio.ai/New Measurement Sharpens Podcast Ad ROI: https://www.podcastnewsdaily.com/news/new-measurement-sharpens-podcast-ad-roi/article_0eea96d8-867f-4b10-ac4b-6c7b2b501cb3.htmlGordon Firemark on Ad Stripping Tools: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wioxJ90jI6QRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wOr Join us on Chatter: https://preview.chattersocial.io/group/98a69881-f328-4eae-bf3c-9b0bb741481dLive on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@marcronickBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
As podcasters, we often don't realize what we don't know until we've already learned it the hard way. The mistakes. The face-palm moments. The times when nothing feels quite right yet. Today, we're sharing real stories from our adventures in podcasting. We discuss what we've learned only after hitting record, why confusion and pivots are part of the process, and how clarity tends to emerge after you begin, not before. We also reflect on what attracted us to podcasting, and what keeps us coming back. You're not behind, you're not failing, and you're not doing it wrong. If you're just starting, picking things back up, or quietly wondering if you're cut out for this, your story is worth telling, and you belong here. Podcasting is an art form that doesn't require perfection. However, it does require honesty, patience, and time. Episode Highlights: [01:54] True Stories Tuesday [03:18] Naming your podcast: tips and common pitfalls[11:38] Strategy and planning[19:57] The Wheel of Jargon[21:56] What does evergreen content mean in podcasting[27:16] Defining podcast hosting[29:14] Why we started podcasting[39:20] Early mistakes in podcasting[43:04] Upcoming podcast evaluations Links & Resources: Join The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingEmpowered Podcasting Conference Course with Recordings: https://ironickmedia.com/courses/epc2025/Our upcoming podcast evaluation: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1C7Uwux1TEvKiGmrvFt9d3?si=31027af293654f7aRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wOr Join us on Chatter: https://preview.chattersocial.io/group/98a69881-f328-4eae-bf3c-9b0bb741481dLive on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@marcronickBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
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