POPULARITY
News · James Cridland and Sam Sethi
News · James Cridland and Sam Sethi
Send James and Sam a message or voicemailSam and James chat with Brian Conlan and Mark Asquith about Captivate and DAX US working together to monetize more podcasts; and to Dino Sofos about this year's Crossed Wires festival in Sheffield.Support the showConnect With Us: Email: weekly@podnews.netFediverse: @james@bne.social and @samsethi@podcastindex.socialSupport us: www.buzzsprout.com/1538779/supportGet Podnews: podnews.net
News · James Cridland and Sam Sethi
News · James Cridland and Sam Sethi
News · James Cridland and Sam Sethi
Send James and Sam a message or voicemailAre we sinking under a sea of AI slop? How do we fix it? Sam talks with Alberto Betella to find out.• iHeartMedia and SiriusXM merger chatter and what it could mean for shareholders • Directory spam stats including AI slopcasts and SEO bait shows • Where responsibility sits across podcast hosts, Apple Podcasts, Spotify and the Podcast Index • Alberto Batella on a taxonomy for AI podcasts and why health misinformation raises the stakes • Why RSS feed AI disclosure matters plus the “substance test” at shouldidisclose.ai • EU AI Act implications for podcast transparency and compliance • Apple enforcement questions and why trust is the asset at risk • Spotify Q1 results and what declining ad revenue signals for creators • Libsyn's video distribution to Spotify and the practical costs of big MP4 files Support the showConnect With Us: Email: weekly@podnews.netFediverse: @james@bne.social and @samsethi@podcastindex.socialSupport us: www.buzzsprout.com/1538779/supportGet Podnews: podnews.net
This week, I'm celebrating the 500th episode of the Sound Off Podcast by turning the spotlight on why so many shows underperform—and what you can do about it. After nearly 10 years and 500 episodes, I've seen the same mistakes again and again, so I break down 10 big ones: blaming a vague “discovery problem” instead of doing the work of promotion, skipping a proper trailer, tolerating shit audio and lazy editing, and relying on weak interview structures that don't respect the listener's time. I also get into overlooked essentials like artwork that actually stands out, using metadata wisely, putting your show everywhere listeners expect podcasts, and not obsessing over video at the expense of audio. Finally, I tackle the myth that you need 10,000 downloads to monetize—reminding you that you don't monetize a podcast, you monetize an audience.Things I promised to put in the show notes: Here are the levels that Apple and Spotify recommend for your podcast. But I found this that shows those and a few more.Want to make your guests sound studio quality? Waves Voice Re-Gen is a favourite I am using now. Adobe has a free and paid tier in their podcast tools. James Cridland keeps a running list of places you should submit your podcast. Please sign up for the SOUNDING OFF Newsletter. All the things that went unsaid on the show.Also we added the Sound Off Podcast to the The Open Podcast Prefix Project (OP3) A free and open-source podcast prefix analytics service committed to open data and listener privacy. You can be a nosey parker by checking out our downloads here.Thanks to the following organizations for supporting the show:Megatrax - Licensed Music for your radio station or podcast production company.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
1353. El tema de las estadísticas de podcast como descargas, escuchas, streams o audiencia suelen aparecer cada vez que asesoro a alguien sobre su podcast, pero lo cierto es que muchas veces esos números no significan exactamente lo que creemos que significan. Ese es el punto de partida del episodio de hoy, un capítulo en el que intento aclarar algunos conceptos básicos que aparecen en las analíticas del podcasting y que, aunque parezcan evidentes, no siempre lo son. La reflexión nace a raíz de un artículo publicado en Podnews titulado 'How to understand podcast stats', escrito por James Cridland, periodista especializado en audio y fundador de este conocido medio de referencia dentro de la industria del podcasting. El texto se publicó originalmente el 1 de noviembre de 2023 y posteriormente se actualizó el 26 de mayo de 2025 para incorporar nuevas referencias a plataformas como YouTube o Spotify for Podcasters (actualmente Spotify for Creators). El objetivo del artículo es muy claro: explicar qué significan realmente los números que vemos cuando analizamos las estadísticas de nuestros podcast. Porque una cosa es ver cifras en un panel de analítica y otra muy distinta comprender qué representan realmente esos datos. Uno de los primeros conceptos que se analizan es la diferencia entre descargas, escuchas y streams. Tres términos que muchas veces utilizamos como si fueran lo mismo, pero que en realidad describen acciones diferentes. Una descarga significa simplemente que el archivo de audio del episodio ha sido solicitado por una aplicación o por un usuario. Eso no implica necesariamente que el episodio se haya escuchado. Puede tratarse de una descarga automática de una app, de un episodio guardado para escuchar más tarde o incluso de una descarga que nunca llega a reproducirse. La escucha o play sí indica que alguien ha pulsado el botón de reproducir, aunque tampoco garantiza que el episodio se haya escuchado completo. Dependiendo de la plataforma, ese dato puede reflejar desde unos pocos segundos hasta varios minutos de reproducción. Y luego está el concepto de stream, que en el podcasting tradicional basado en RSS es un poco más difuso. En muchos casos, cuando alguien reproduce un episodio en realidad el archivo se descarga en segundo plano mientras se reproduce, por lo que técnicamente ese stream termina siendo una descarga progresiva. Otro tema interesante que aborda el artículo tiene que ver con la dificultad de interpretar correctamente los datos. El sistema de distribución del podcasting es descentralizado y eso significa que cada aplicación de escucha puede gestionar las descargas de forma diferente. Algunas apps descargan episodios automáticamente, otras lo hacen cuando el usuario pulsa play y otras incluso pueden almacenar el archivo en servidores intermedios para mejorar la velocidad de reproducción. Eso provoca que el hosting del podcast solo sepa que alguien ha solicitado el archivo, pero no siempre puede saber exactamente qué ha ocurrido después. Por eso las cifras de audiencia de un podcast suelen ser estimaciones. Una misma persona puede descargar un episodio desde distintos dispositivos o incluso escucharlo varias veces. Al final, la recomendación que suelo dar cuando hablo de estadísticas es bastante sencilla: compararse con uno mismo. Analizar cómo evoluciona cada episodio dentro del propio histórico del podcast y evitar caer en la tentación de sumar cifras de distintas plataformas como si fueran datos exactos.Puedes leer el artículo completo de Podnews titulado 'How to understand podcast stats', en el siguiente enlace:https://podnews.net/article/understanding-podcast-statistics_____________ ¡Gracias por pasarte 'Al otro lado del micrófono' un día más para seguir aprendiendo sobre podcasting! Si quieres descubrir cómo puedes unirte a la comunidad o a los diferentes canales donde está presente este podcast, te invito a visitar https://alotroladodelmicrofono.com/unete Además, puedes apoyar el proyecto mediante un pequeño impulso mensual, desde un granito de café mensual hasta un brunch digital. Descubre las diferentes opciones entrando en: https://alotroladodelmicrofono.com/cafe. También puedes apoyar el proyecto a través de tus compras en Amazon mediante mi enlace de afiliados https://alotroladodelmicrofono.com/amazon La voz que puedes escuchar en la intro del podcast es de Juan Navarro Torelló (PoniendoVoces) y el diseño visual es de Antonio Poveda. La dirección, grabación y locución corre a cargo de Jorge Marín. La sintonía que puedes escuchar en cada capítulo ha sido creada por Jason Show y se titula: 2 Above Zero. 'Al otro lado del micrófono' es una creación de EOVE Productora.
TrueFans.fm founder Sam Sethi is forward thinking about podcasting. Sam explains how True Fans grew out of the podcasting 2.0 movement into a full creator marketplace where podcasters can host audio and video, build real fan communities, and earn through value-for-value models, including micro payments, subscriptions, and one-off episode payments.Sam walks me through how True Fans removes friction for listeners with a built-in virtual wallet, gamified SATs, and simple top-ups using Stripe, Apple Pay, and Google Pay, while handling all the complex bits in the background. On the hosting side, we dig into why downloads are a broken metric and how True Fans uses streaming and six-second packets to deliver rich consumption analytics. Sam also previews what's coming next: live streaming, co-listening, chat, creator portals, custom domains, and AI/voice interfaces that aim to give creators more control than Apple, Spotify, or YouTube.Whether you are a creator or a podcast listener, please get involved with TrueFans.fm You can hear Sam on the Podnews Weekly Review with James Cridland. Speaking of James - it's time to fill out the Podnews Report Card - James is really good about sharing the results with some of podcasting's Big Dogs. Please sign up for the SOUNDING OFF Newsletter. All the things that went unsaid on the show.Also we added the Sound Off Podcast to the The Open Podcast Prefix Project (OP3) A free and open-source podcast prefix analytics service committed to open data and listener privacy. You can be a nosey parker by checking out our downloads here.Thanks to the following organizations for supporting the show:Megatrax - Licensed Music for your radio station or podcast production company.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Have you ever wondered if the reason your podcast hasn't “exploded” is actually the very thing that could help it last—and make it more rewarding? This week, I look into why having a smaller, passionate, and loyal audience often leads to more meaningful wins (personally and professionally) than simply racking up big download numbers. If you want to learn how to create enduring engagement, avoid common pitfalls, and connect with listeners in a way that actually matters, this episode is for you.Here's what I cover in this week's “Podcast Stew” styled episode (which includes chapters).1000 True FansWhy a “thousand true fans” might just be your biggest business advantage (and how focusing on your core audience beats chasing the casual crowd).Lessons from YouTube experts (Rocks Codes, Stephen Bartlett, Mr. Beast, Marques Brownlee) on where to put your energy if you want to succeed, and the role thumbnails, titles, and discovery play in growth My thoughts on competing with “the big guys” - what you should (and shouldn't) compare against, and why joy matters Independent vs. networked podcasting: Candid stories from the Young and Profiting team, the Midas Touch podcast, and why control is crucial The truth about monetization—when is the right time (and why “3% conversion” is the real number to expect) Behind the curtain of podcast business stats: Lessons from Goal Hanger, ad revenue, and memberships Platform realities: Spotify's “walled garden,” why I recommend “anybody but Spotify” for hosting, and insights from James Cridland at Podnews The importance of fun and fulfillment: advice from LeBron James and Charlie Puth on why loving the work is the true engine for longevity How to effectively use calls-to-action: Taking lessons from an Audible ad in “Project Hail Mary” and why going “deeper” with your fans matters Links mentioned this week:School of PodcastingPodpagePodnews Report CardHow to Pitch a Podcast Show (Coming Soon!).Creators Hub in SpotifyApple Podcasts HubWhether you're launching, growing, or just rethinking your show's direction, this episode is packed with honest stories and actionable advice, plus a dash of inspiration to help you stay true to your voice and audience. As always, if you want to go deeper, join the free School of PodcastingThanks for listening! Don't forget to share with a friend who needs a reminder that influence starts with true connection.Mentioned in This ShowOxford Road The Media Roundtable EpisodeSound Off Podcast (Matt Cundill interviews Doug Downs)Why MKBHD Told Netflix: "Don't Bother on Jon Youshaei channelWhat Podcasting Can Learn From YouTube Growth with Rox Codes (Podbiz with Norma Jean Belenky)Lisa Kudrow on Vanity Fair ChannelSounds Profitable The DownloadJames Cridland on Spotify's Features "Coming Soon."Jordan Harbinger Talks YouTube on New Media Show with Rob GreenleeCharlie Puth on Rick Beato ChannelProject Hail Mary TrailerBig Lash Energy InterviewAudible (aff link)Mentioned in this episode:See Your Show On PodpageIf you host a podcast, your website should work as hard as your episodes do. At Podpage, we automatically create a beautiful, professional site for your show — complete with episode pages, transcripts, audio players, SEO optimization, and built-in tools to grow your audience. No design work. No plugins. No ongoing maintenance. In less than a minute, you can see exactly what your podcast would look like on Podpage. Go to podpage.com/preview and generate your free preview site now. (No Credit Card Required) See your show the way it should look.PodpageQuestion of the Month: The Future of PodcastingSomeone asked me, and I had to think about it. So now I'm asking you, How do you feel about the future of podcasting? Where do you think it's going? (etc,). Feel free to share your opinion and why. Don't forget to tell us about your show and where we can find it. Question of the MonthLive AppearancesI will be at the Empower Podcasting Conference (Year 3!) in Charlotte North Carolina. This is my favorite type of conference with a cap at 250 people, it's a great crowd without being overwhelming. Great speakers, great networking, and a great location.Where Will I Be?Join the School of Podcasting Today - Your Future Self Will Thank YouStepping out of your comfort zone isn't easy, but at the School of Podcasting, we're here to make it feel like second nature. With our expertly crafted courses and an incredible community, you're never alone in your journey. From planning and launching to growing your podcast, I'll be right by your side every step of the way. Remember, every podcast episode builds connections and opens doors to future opportunities. Take...
If you want to know the exact moment legacy radio started to feel its age, it might have been when a major Australian station began giving away lacy doilies. In the latest episode of On The Record, Michael Mackenzie and Brian Wise—veterans with a combined 70 years behind the mic—stage a fascinating "in-house" intervention for the medium they love (and occasionally despair over). Joined by global "radio futurologist" James Cridland, the trio moved from a high-tech April Fool's hoax involving Bob Dylan to a deep-tissue analysis of why the ABC is shedding listeners while community radio and podcasts are booming. Show Notes: Project Hail Mary - Official Trailer Sign Up for James Cridland's weekly radio newsletter
We break down the newest podcast industry data and the platform moves that are quietly reshaping how people watch and listen. We debate what success should mean when YouTube leads listening time, Apple moves video to HLS, and creators still get judged on downloads. • Infinite Dial numbers on in-car audio and monthly and weekly podcast reach • Share of ear shift showing YouTube leading total podcast time • Podbean pulling dynamic ad insertion across Europe and the fallout for creators • Adobe Podcast updates including source separation, music removal, and remote video recording • Completion and retention research from Bumper and why short episodes finish higher • Apple Podcasts video via HLS and what auto-downloads actually pull • Reach versus engagement and the risk of handing measurement to three platforms • Steve Ackerman on why video is additive and how monetisation models may change • BBC monetisation changes, Netflix podcast strategy, and where Amazon might land • AI that helps creators versus AI voice slop that hurts audiences Send James & Sam a messageFinancial Matters with Richard OringRichard Oring, from New Century Financial Group in Princeton, New Jersey, discusses...Listen on: Apple Podcasts Support the showConnect With Us: Email: weekly@podnews.net Fediverse: @james@bne.social and @samsethi@podcastindex.social Support us: www.buzzsprout.com/1538779/support Get Podnews: podnews.net
On Weds, February 18th Live Episode #651 of the New Media Show, Rob Greenlee, Host, 2017 Podcast Hall of Famer and CEO of Trust Factor Lab at https://RobGreenlee.com, and James Cridland, Editor, https://Podnews.net and 2026 Podcast Hall of Famer discuss Apple's announcement of a new and improved video podcast experience in the Apple Podcasts app and what it changes technically and strategically heading into 2026. They explain how video was previously active in Apple Podcasts but was hidden and poorly presented in the iOS apps, and how this new updated experience makes video playback front and center, with a “turn video off” option that keeps the audio track playing. The episode breaks down Apple's preferred move to HLS-based on-demand video delivery (via a separate, proprietary API HLS video streaming pass-through submission from approved hosting partners) while still supporting legacy MP4 video via RSS. They cover HLS basics (chunked delivery, adaptive quality, reduced bandwidth, and hosting costs), improved seeking/scrubbing versus progressive MP4 playback, and new measurement implications (better insight into drop-off and ad viewing). A major focus is monetization: Apple plans to enable dynamic ad insertion for HLS video and charge a per-impression fee, positioning Apple to take revenue without operating an ad business. The conversation notes early launch partners (Acast, Art19, Omny Studio, Simplecast), questions about specs and rollout timing (an app update is likely by the end of March; dynamic ad features later in the year), and the risk of platform fragmentation as distribution shifts from open RSS to proprietary APIs. James and Rob discuss alternate enclosures (Podcasting 2.0) as an open path to wider app support, reference iHeart's stated support for video via RSS alternate enclosures, and highlight creator concerns about losing separate audio edits when video replaces the audio feed during playback. They also touch on device support (not initially on Apple TV; CarPlay doesn't show video; Vision Pro support) and briefly discuss future RSS innovation ideas like comments, payments, transcripts, and location tags, plus a short note on upcoming podcast events (Podcast Show London, Podcast Movement New York, Podcast Movement at SXSW). Chapter Topics: 00:00 Welcome + Why Apple's Video Podcast Update Matters 01:31 Apple Brings Video Front-and-Center (and Why Now) 06:00 The New Playback Experience: Full-Screen Video & One Feed 10:49 How Apple's HLS Video Works (and Why It's Better) 11:36 The Money Shift: Dynamic Video Ads & Apple's Per-Impression Fee 17:59 Rollout Timeline, Unknown Specs, and Early Partner Shows 23:54 Partners, Two Ingestion Paths, and the RSS vs HLS Debate 34:47 Hands-On Demo: Video Icons, Turn Video Off, and MP4 vs HLS 39:47 Bandwidth, Scrubbing, and What HLS Enables for Measurement 44:16 Quality/Resolution Questions + Missing Apple TV (for Now) 46:26 CarPlay & Vision Pro: Where Apple Podcasts Video Actually Plays 47:09 Will HLS Replace MP3 for Audio? Monetization, Costs, and Reality Check 49:51 Apple vs Spotify: Open Hosting, Dynamic Ads, and Why This Helps Creators 52:30 Audio Isn't ‘Video Without Pictures': Why Separate Edits Matter 55:21 Will It Work With Spotify for Creators? Partners, Megaphone, and Pressure 01:00:02 How HLS Interstitials Work: Client-Side Ad Breaks and Spec Unknowns 01:07:48 Keeping RSS Relevant: Alternate Enclosures, Comments, Payments, and New Tags 01:13:48 Local Podcasting & Specialized Apps: Location Tag, TuneIn, and the Future 01:20:20 Wrap-Up: Conferences, Cold Weather, and Final Goodbyes What you will learn in this episode – How Apple's HLS video differs from RSS MP4 enclosures in real-world creator workflows – Why HLS segment-based delivery enables adaptive streaming and modern video ad insertion – What Apple's limited launch partner list means for hosting competition and creator choice (Podnews) – https://podnews.net/article/video-apple-podcasts-details – How Apple Podcasts Connect API keys work, and what they do and do not grant to hosting providers – https://podcasters.apple.com/support/5593-how-to-publish-video – How creators should decide between RSS video, Apple HLS video, and other platform video strategies in 2026 – https://www.theverge.com/tech/879749/apple-podcasts-video-swap-hls-live-streaming Links for show notes Watch live or On Demand https://newmediashow.com Apple announcement https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2026/02/apple-introduces-a-new-video-podcast-experience-on-apple-podcasts/ Apple creator documentation https://podcasters.apple.com/video-apple-podcasts https://podcasters.apple.com/support/5593-how-to-publish-video https://podcasters.apple.com/support/3684-video-podcasts Podnews analysis https://podnews.net/article/video-apple-podcasts-details https://podnews.net/update/apple-podcasts-hero Guest James Cridland, Editor, https://Podnews.net https://james.cridland.net/biography/ Host Rob Greenlee, 2017 Podcast Hall of Fame Inductee https://robgreenlee.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/robgreenlee https://www.youtube.com/@RobGreenlee https://x.com/robgreenlee https://PodcastHall.comThe post Apple's New Video Podcast Deep Dive | James Cridland #651 first appeared on New Media Show.
Episode Description - Join host Marv for an in-depth conversation with Sam Sethi, entrepreneur, former tech journalist, and co-creator of True Fans. Discover the evolution of podcasting technology, the future of RSS feeds, and how blockchain-based micropayments could revolutionize creator monetization. Sam shares insights from his 30+ year journey through tech giants like Microsoft, Netscape, and BBC, and explains why podcasting 2.0 might be the industry's biggest shift since iTunes. Key Topics Covered - Podcasting 2.0 & The New Namespace Sam explains the revolutionary metadata tags transforming podcast discovery and functionality, from person tags and chapters to location-based podcast mapping. Learn how open-source collaboration is challenging Big Tech's dominance. The Future of Podcast Monetization Discover programmable money and value-for-value models that could replace traditional advertising. Sam reveals how listeners can earn micropayments for their attention while giving creators direct revenue streams. Streaming vs. Downloads: The Coming Shift Why the podcast industry's obsession with download numbers is outdated, and how first-party listen time data will revolutionize advertising effectiveness and creator insights. AI in Podcasting: Hype vs. Reality Sam's take on "assisted intelligence" - where AI transcripts and automated chapters add value, and where synthetic voices fall short of authentic creator-listener relationships. Timestamps - [00:00] Introduction and Sam's tech journalism background [02:00] From army officer to Microsoft: Sam's unconventional career path [04:00] The early days of blogging and TechCrunch Europe [05:00] COVID pivot: Building a radio station and discovering podcasting [06:00] Launching Pod News Weekly Review with James Cridland [07:00] Getting involved with Podcasting 2.0 and building True Fans [08:00] Apple finally adopts transcripts and chapters - validation for the namespace [10:00] Location tags and the future of podcast discovery [12:00] Why Sam loves technology over advertising metrics [14:00] The Spotify-Netflix deal and protecting niche podcasting [15:00] Advertising as "Emperor's new clothes" - the measurement problem [17:00] Revolutionary concept: Paying listeners to watch ads with programmable money [20:00] Value-for-value and streaming micropayments explained [22:00] Co-listening feature and building podcast communities [26:00] The Pod News Weekly dynamic: British humor and rapport [28:00] Moving from downloads to streaming: The next five years [30:00] Why listen time percentage matters more than raw numbers [33:00] The death of the download model and rise of streaming data [36:00] BBC Sounds international availability debate [40:00] The Panorama editing scandal and BBC's reputation [42:00] What makes a great podcast: Content, chemistry, and audio quality [45:00] Parasocial relationships and podcast magic [46:00] Claire Waite Brown's "Podcasting 2.0 in Practice" - essential listening [47:00] Concerns about declining podcasting 2.0 content creators [51:00] Sam's podcast listening habits: Politics, sports, and intelligent conversation [53:00] AI as "assisted intelligence" not artificial intelligence [54:00] AI voices vs. authentic creator relationships [56:00] Different AI podcast models: Editorial control vs. content farms [58:00] How to connect with Sam and True Fans Key Quotes - "I think micropayments and wallets might take a little longer, but I can see in 2026 that catching on as well... the merit of what the technology provides and why people want it stands out very well." "The joy and the promise of podcasting is about the long tail, about the niche of podcasting... somebody who's got a niche podcast about fishing or knitting or whatever, can still have an audience." "I think advertising is the Emperor's new clothes. I think it's a scam... Who heard my ad? Oh, we can't tell you. How long did they listen to my ad? I don't know." "The download isn't irrelevant, but actual listen time is a real metric. And so I think in 2026, 2027, you'll see more and more people tell you what their listen time is not their download numbers." Resources Mentioned - People & Podcasts ● James Cridland - Pod News Weekly Review co-host ● Adam Curry - Podcasting pioneer, Podcasting 2.0 namespace creator ● Dave Jones - Podcasting 2.0 co-creator ● Claire Waite - "Podcasting 2.0 in Practice" podcast ● Elsie Escobar - Former host of The Feed ● Kara Swisher - Pivot podcast ● Emily Maitlis - The News Agents, The Rest is Politics Platforms & Tools ● True Fans - Sam's podcasting app and hosting platform ● Fountain - Podcasting 2.0 app ● Pod Verse - Podcasting 2.0 app ● Buzzsprout - Podcast hosting with AI features ● Zencaster - Recording platform ● 11 Labs - AI voice generation ● Wonder Craft - AI audio production Companies & Technologies ● Podcasting 2.0 namespace ● Value-for-value model ● Booster Gram Ball ● Lightning Network micropayments ● BBC Sounds Articles & Concepts - ● Kevin Kelly's "1,000 True Fans" essay ● Micro formats and micro data ● Premium RSS feeds ● Value time splits (wallet switching) ● Timed links in transcripts Connect with Sam Sethi - ● Email: sam@truefans.fm ● LinkedIn: Sam Sethi ● Listen: Pod News Weekly Review ● Listen: Creators from True Fans ● Platform: truefans.fm ● Mastodon: Active SEO Keywords - podcasting 2.0, podcast monetization, RSS feeds, micropayments, value for value podcasting, podcast analytics, listen time metrics, streaming podcasts, podcast advertising, AI in podcasting, podcast transcripts, podcast chapters, True Fans app, podcasting namespace, blockchain podcasting, creator economy, independent podcasters, podcast technology, podcast discovery, niche podcasting About the Guest - Sam Sethi is a tech entrepreneur and former journalist with over 30 years of industry experience. He's worked with Microsoft, Netscape, BBC, and TechCrunch, and currently serves as co-creator of True Fans and co-host of Pod News Weekly Review. Sam is deeply involved in the Podcasting 2.0 movement, developing innovative solutions for podcast monetization and listener engagement through blockchain-based micropayments and enhanced RSS metadata. For more episodes of Pods Like Us, visit themarzone.org or find us on your favorite podcast platform. Support the show on Patreon.
What happens when Apple, Spotify, YouTube, Amazon, Acast, Adobe, Pocket Casts, Triton, Bumper, Transistor, creators, and analysts all compare notes on where podcasting just landed—and where it's headed next? You get a clear picture of a medium that's fully mainstream, proudly hybrid, and fiercely contested. We gathered 25+ voices to unpack 2025's biggest shifts and lay down their boldest calls for 2026.Send James & Sam a messageC-Suite PerspectivesElevate how you lead with insight from today's most influential executives.Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showConnect With Us: Email: weekly@podnews.net Fediverse: @james@bne.social and @samsethi@podcastindex.social Support us: www.buzzsprout.com/1538779/support Get Podnews: podnews.net
We track the biggest forces shaping podcasting next year: Goalhanger's network effect, a pivot to listener-based analytics, and the tension between open RSS and closed “podcast” branding from big platforms. We dig into video hosting defaults, live streaming, and why honest metrics will decide winners.(It's a re-upload! With the intro.)• Apple's Show of the Year milestone and Goalhanger's model• Cross-promo and cadence as scalable growth levers• Flight Studio's talent strategy versus brand synergy• Hall of Fame inductees and industry recognition• Creator retention, audio versus video habits, and practical focus• Fountain's video hosting and sensible playback defaults• TrueFans roadmap for audio, video, and live with HLS• TikTok's “podcasts” and why definitions drive ad budgets• Substack live streaming and platform convergence• Pod Analyst's unified telemetry, retention curves, and sales clarity• Downloads versus unique listeners and consumption baselines• Bot and AI slop concerns and search downgrading• Libsyn price rises and market signals• Awards season, new events, and what's ahead(This description is from Buzzsprout's CoHost AI, which is very good and are our sponsor).Send James & Sam a messageSupport the showConnect With Us: Email: weekly@podnews.net Fediverse: @james@bne.social and @samsethi@podcastindex.social Support us: www.buzzsprout.com/1538779/support Get Podnews: podnews.net
(This description is produced by our sponsor Buzzsprout's CoHost AI tool).We cut through the download delusion and show how people, playback, and time spent reveal true growth. Dan Misener explains loyalty metrics, we test platform tactics, and we share simple ways to turn spikes into steady listeners.• people numbers, playback intent, and time spent as core metrics• loyalty as repeat listening, short‑term vs lifetime signals• diagnosing new listener vs returning listener problems• tactics to lift retention: teases, tighter intros, linked back catalog• autoplay spikes vs durable audience growth• Patreon's free RSS hosting and premium access options• Overcast hiding promos and reruns, impact on revenue• Pocket Casts playlists and improved search for discovery• PSO benchmarks and the value of reviews• community boosts, feedback, and hosting updatesStart podcasting, keep podcasting with BuzzSprout.comSubscribe to our newsletter at podnews.netTell your friends and grow the showSend James & Sam a messageSupport the showConnect With Us: Email: weekly@podnews.net Fediverse: @james@bne.social and @samsethi@podcastindex.social Support us: www.buzzsprout.com/1538779/support Get Podnews: podnews.net
Send James & Sam a messageSupport the showConnect With Us: Email: weekly@podnews.net Fediverse: @james@bne.social and @samsethi@podcastindex.social Support us: www.buzzsprout.com/1538779/support Get Podnews: podnews.net
"6BM Bournemouth sends hearty greetings to the world... We do hope you can smell the pines!" On 17 October 1923 (oh and look at the date this podcast landed - 102 years apart), the BBC opened its eighth station: 6BM Bournemouth. It was the last of the first, after the original plan for eight station. Now the map atop the Radio Times cover would be proven correct! When the magazine launched, it featured eight stations... but only six were in operation. For perhaps the first time, we'll unite some of the first voices from each station - from London's Arthur Burrows to Bournemouth's Auntie Lulu - as well as hear some of pioneering voices from 6BM, thanks to Seán Street, Emeritus Professor of Radio at Bournemouth University. Seán's wonderful recent article and 1973 documentary are essential further reading and listening - and any early voices you hear on this podcast are from interviews he recorded then. We're so glad he did. Hear the children's presenter in trouble for mentioning religion and booze in her children's tales (no 'Yohoho and a bottle of rum' here...) and the offers from France to pay a licence fee, so enamoured were they with the Bournemouth station. As for radio's future, who better than the radio futurologist to enlighten us? James Cridland is in-demand as a radio consultant and speaker, and has both intriguing thoughts on where radio (or audio) is going, and wonderful tales of working in radio, including being at the cutting edge of radio's move online two decades ago. I hope you enjoy our chat as much as I did (and yes he will be back). Elsewhere, we talk about not only this podcast's survey, but the BBC's survey, and its results. What do we want the BBC to be? The people have spoken... We dig into that a little. And our next clue in our audio Christmas gift. What will it be? Keep listening to puzzle it out. (Email me any guesses by all means - or feedback generally on the podcast, or any queries we can ponder on a future episode) I like all the episodes I make for this podcast. But I REALLY like this one. Hope you do too. SHOWNOTES: Original music is by Will Farmer. Professor Seán Street's wonderful 1973 documentary on 6BM Bournemouth is a must-listen: https://soundcloud.com/seans-wireless/6bm-calling His brilliant article on 6BM Bournemouth is here: https://www.bournemouth.ac.uk/celebrating-centenary-bbc-our-work-creative-industries/question-of-anniversaries James Cridland's website is james.cridland.net, and his daily podcast newsletter is the excellent Podnews. Our survey of what you like/don't about this podcast is here - do please spare 5mins to let me know your thoughts: http://tiny.cc/bbcenturysurvey The BBC's slightly bigger survey has its results now in: https://www.bbc.co.uk/ourbbcourfuture/ Thanks to Andrew Barker, our Newspaper Detective, for finding the press extracts. Copyright may belong to a newspaper conglomerate somewhere that bought up old newspapers. I can't tell. I just know it's not mine. But fair use, right? Paul's latest Substack is on the Boat Race and the BBC: https://paulkerensa.substack.com/p/the-boat-race-drifts-from-the-bbc Paul's live show on the BBC origin story visits a variety of tour stops: www.paulkerensa.com/tour. This podcast is not made by today's BBC. It's just about the old BBC. And occasionally what's ahead. Please like/share/rate/review this podcast - it all really helps. Support us on Patreon (£5/mth - thanks if you do!), for bonus videos, writings, readings etc. Coming soon to the podcast: a dramatic re-enactment! That involves me paying a producer for this one-off episode. I intend to give her one month's Patreon £. So now's a great time to chip in, and she'll get a good £... and might then do more for us! If you'd consider? Thanks. Guilt trip over. (...FOR NOW) Or a one-off tip to Ko-fi.com/paulkerensa? Thanks! All keeps the podcast going. Next time: Episode 107: The early BBC criticism programmes: Drama, Music, Film, Books... More on this broadcasting history project at paulkerensa.com/oldradio
You've heard it a hundred times: “Leave a rating or review, it really helps grow the show.” But does it actually? In this episode, we dig into this podcast marketing myth and explore how much ratings and reviews really impact podcast growth. In this episode, we hear from: - James Cridland, Editor of Podnews - Lauren Passell, Founder of Tink Media - Kylee Chandler, CEO and Founder of Podcast Marketing Hub - Chris Stone, Podcast Strategist and Founder of Podcast Crew You'll hear: Why Apple and Spotify reviews don't directly influence discovery algorithms The underrated ways ratings and reviews still help your show grow How social proof shapes listener behavior (and why it matters more than ever) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Love the show? We'd love a review! Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. ✅ Want to grow your visibility through podcast guesting? Check out how PodWritten can help: https://podwritten.com/services/ https://podwritten.com/
"Aberdeen Calling!" On 10 October 1923, the BBC opened its seventh station: 2BD Aberdeen. Its station director R.E. Jeffrey was fresh from the success of Rob Roy - a drama he'd produced and starred in - and in later years he'd head up BBC drama, with contributions arguably including radio's first sci-fi and first sitcom (not at the same time - Red Dwarf was a while away yet). Our experts include author Gordon Bathgate (whose book Aberdeen Calling is recommended - link below)... academic Dr Aleksandar Kocic of Edinburgh Napier University on why the BBC doesn't really do local radio in Scotland... plus notes from Prof Tim Crook on R.E. Jeffrey's later career... and much more. We recreate for you Aberdeen's opening night - hear the songs and some of the voices. We look at the challenges of the weather, and the shrinking nature of BBC local radio - both in 1923 and in 2025. Thoughts on any of this? Email me: paul at paulkerensa dot com. And see the below links for more on this marvellous tale... SHOWNOTES: Original music is by Will Farmer. Gordon Bathgate's excellent book Aberdeen Calling: 100 Years of the BBC in Aberdeen is available for your bookshelf: https://amzn.to/42mDDuJ Dr Aleksandar Kocic's thesis - 'What perceptions of local radio by its journalists and listeners tell us about its role and future' - is here: https://dspace.stir.ac.uk/handle/1893/35995?mode=full Graham Stewart's website Scotland On Air has more on the 2BD Aberdeen story here: https://wiki.scotlandonair.com/wiki/2BD Prof Tim Crook's article on R.E. Jeffrey and his pioneering sci-fi dramas is here: https://kulturapress.com/2022/08/29/r-e-jeffrey-pioneer-science-fiction-audio-playwright/ Our survey of what you like/don't about this podcast is here - do please spare 5mins to let me know your thoughts: http://tiny.cc/bbcenturysurvey Paul's latest Substack is on the Boat Race leaving the BBC... and how it first arrived: https://paulkerensa.substack.com/p/the-boat-race-drifts-from-the-bbc Paul's live show on the BBC origin story visits a variety of tour stops: www.paulkerensa.com/tour. This podcast is nothing to do with the BBC. Y'hear? Please like/share/rate/review this podcast - it all helps. Support us on Patreon (£5/mth), for bonus videos etc. Coming soon: a thing that involves me paying for a few things to make a one-off fuller bigger episode. Help fund it? Thanks if you do! Or a one-off tip to Ko-fi.com/paulkerensa? Thanks! All keeps the podcast afloat. Next time: Episode 106: The launch of 6BM Bournemouth, and an interview with radio futurologist James Cridland. More on this broadcasting history project at paulkerensa.com/oldradio
The past year we've lost some great people in the podcasting family. Neil Guilarte and Todd Cochrane both died suddenly with no warning. If you're not prepared, you leave your family in a lurch adding to the stress of your passing. I bring on The Podcast Lawyer Gordon Firemark to explain some of the ins and outs (Gordon doesn't do wills and such, but can explain the process). As law change based on location you may want to hire someone locally, or use an online tool that adjusts to your location.Takeaways: If you don't have a will, your podcast may not end up where you want it to. Dying without instructions for your podcast can lead to chaos for your family. Setting up a will or a plan for your podcast is just plain smart business. Don't wait until it's too late; get your podcast plans in order now. Having a podcast prenup can save your loved ones from a lot of headaches later. Make sure your family knows how to access your podcast info if you suddenly vanish. Mentioned in this EpisodeSchool of PodcastingGordon FiremarkGordon's YouTube Channel1passwordBitwardenArticle by James Cridland from PodnewsLaw DepotMentioned in this episode:Question of the MonthThis month's question comes from Todd the Gator of the Gaurdian Downcast (guardiandowncast.com). He wants to know: How long did it take to go from idea to podcast? Also how long did it take to find your community? I need your answers by September 26thQuestion of the MonthLive AppearancesI will be at the Empower Podcasting Conference in Charlotte NC September 26-28 This is going to be a great conference. I'll be speaking and I can't wait to see you there.Where Will I Be?Help Dave Shape the ShowI want to make this show your favorite podcast about podcasting. I can't do this without you. This will be a live virtual meeting where you can help me shape the content of this show. You can let me know what I'm doing right, and what needs some polish. I look forward to meeting with you and others and hearing your feedback. Go to www.schoolofpodcasting.com/kitchen (or click the link below)Podcast Kitchen
We remember podcasting pioneer Todd Cochran who passed away suddenly this week, reflecting on his 19-year journey in the industry and the indelible mark he left on the medium. • Todd's journey began in 2004 with a $14.95 Walmart microphone, creating his first podcast in a hotel room in Waco, Texas• An excerpt from our 2023 interview with Todd shares his podcasting origin story and philosophy• Apple Podcasts appears to be preparing support for Podcasting 2.0 JSON chapters, potentially offering AI-generated chapters for podcasts• Daniel J Lewis has launched Pod Chapters in beta, offering AI-generated chapter creation for podcasters• Patreon is enhancing creator pages with customization options and domains, pointing to a trend of creator-owned portals• YouTube broadcast its first exclusive NFL game to 17 million global viewers as sports content grows in importance• Growing concerns about AI-generated podcast content as companies flood platforms with low-quality, automated shows• New York Times is closing its dedicated audio app to integrate audio content into its main news app• Discussion of protocol integration between ActivityPub, the AT protocol, and Nostr for better social web interconnectionIf you're in London on Tuesday, September 16th, join James and Sam at the Yorkshire Grey in Langham Street between 5-7pm for drinks and conversation.Send James & Sam a messageSupport the showConnect With Us: Email: weekly@podnews.net Fediverse: @james@bne.social and @samsethi@podcastindex.social Support us: www.buzzsprout.com/1538779/support Get Podnews: podnews.net
This year's Podcast Movement convention marked a clear turning point in the evolution of the podcasting industry. I've been attending this event since 2018, and it has always been a valuable space for independent creators like us. But now, the shift toward corporate interests is more evident than ever. With the merger of Podcast Movement and Sounds Profitable, and the major announcement that the 2026 event will move from its usual summer schedule to New York City in September, it's clear the focus is shifting toward advertisers and industry execs. While this move might serve the broader industry well, it raises valid concerns for independent creators who may be priced out or feel sidelined.In a candid conversation with Tom Webster and James Cridland, I asked for clarity on where indie podcasters stand. Tom acknowledged that not everyone will fit into the new model, but there will still be space carved out for us. So while we're keeping an eye on how this transition plays out, we're also considering events like Podfest, which may better cater to creators.One of the most actionable takeaways came from producer Jay Yow, who stressed the importance of wearing headphones while recording. It's not just a technical recommendation—it's essential for clean audio. Poor sound can sabotage a good show, especially on remote platforms like Riverside or Squadcast. His argument? If Taylor Swift can wear headphones on camera, so can we.We also revisited the ongoing debate between video and audio podcasting. While video is great for discovery—especially on YouTube—audio remains the foundation. As Johnny Podcasts puts it: audio is your shoes, video is your socks. You can skip socks, but you can't skip shoes. Resources should go to audio first, especially since many YouTube “viewers” are actually just listening in the background.The biggest research insight came from Hal Rood and Tim Bronsil's "The Podcast Study," who revealed that most listeners focus on just three main podcasts, spending 75% of their time with their favorite. To stand out, we need to avoid wasting those critical first 30 seconds of our show. Open strong, skip the fluff, and immediately give listeners a reason to stick around. It's what separates a casual listener from a loyal one.Rob Walch of Libsyn reminded us again that shortcuts like “buying downloads” are scams. Real growth takes time, and authenticity matters more than inflated numbers. Despite claims of 4.6 million podcasts, only around 354,000 are active. The space is wide open if we're consistent and committed.Finally, we dove into SEO and PSO strategies. SEO helps our episodes show up in search results, while PSO focuses on discoverability within platforms like Apple and Spotify. To win at both, we need smart titling, backlinking, frequent publishing, and full show notes on our websites.All in all, the industry is changing fast—but with the right tools and mindset, there's still room for independent voices like ours to thrive. Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com
Jakarta sets the stage for an exploration of Asia's unique podcast landscape, where innovative approaches to monetization and content distribution reflect the region's diverse markets and consumer behaviors.• Ron Baetiong from Podcast Network Asia leverages Spotify's Open Access with local payment systems like GCash for their audio drama platform• Japanese podcast consumption differs significantly from Western markets, with YouTube as the top platform for podcast listening• BBC announces "Asia Specific," a new podcast examining global stories through an Asian lensPlus...• Blubrry announces first price increase in 20 years, raising questions about sustainable podcast hosting models• Buzzsprout data shows Spotify usage dropping 3.1% year-on-year, while Apple Podcasts remains dominant at 37.1%• PodHome launches their own podcast app after a year of development, focused on discovery and modern features• Top reasons listeners abandon podcasts include content being boring and shows starting with too much meaningless chat.Send James & Sam a messageSupport the showConnect With Us: Email: weekly@podnews.net Fediverse: @james@bne.social and @samsethi@podcastindex.social Support us: www.buzzsprout.com/1538779/support Get Podnews: podnews.net
Send us a textThis year's Podcast Movement in Dallas featured a fresh format with silent disco-style headphones and a dramatic shift in podcasting trends. Jordan tracked down some of the top speakers at Podcast Movement to give their podcasting advice and big takeaways from their session.• Dave Jackson revealed Marc Maron made $215,000 monthly from subscribers paying for his back catalog• James Cridland shared that Goalhanger generates one-third of their revenue from audience memberships• Alex Sanfilippo emphasized proactively connecting with listeners through personal conversations• Courtney Elmer identified podcast SEO as "lowest hanging fruit" for show discovery• Daniel J Lewis encouraged podcasters to use publishing platforms that support Podcasting 2.0 features• Tom Rossi highlighted the importance of comparing engagement metrics (90% podcast consumption vs 5% YouTube)• Krystal Proffitt shared her PREPM method (Plan-Record-Edit-Publish-Market) to create content without burnoutDon't forget, next week we're discussing how to cut down on editing time, so if you have any tips or questions about that, be sure to tap the text show link to send it in.Contact Buzzcast Send us a text message Tweet us at @buzzcastpodcast, @albanbrooke, @kfinn, and @JordanPods Thanks for listening and Keep Podcasting!
This audio has been rescued from almost inaudible audio thanks to recording using the wrong microphone - this was just on a laptop microphone carried around a loud conference. Good job that Buzzsprout has a tool called Power Clean that fixed much of that for us.We also speak with Oskar Serrander about Wondercraft's new tool, Wonda.Send James & Sam a messageSupport the showConnect With Us: Email: weekly@podnews.net Fediverse: @james@bne.social and @samsethi@podcastindex.social Support us: www.buzzsprout.com/1538779/support Get Podnews: podnews.net
James and Sam are away this week, so time for an interview in more detail than we normally would. Norma-Jean Belenky discusses her new podcast PodBiz, which explores the various ways podcasters monetize their content through transparent conversations with industry professionals.• PodBiz aims to answer the question "where's the money in podcasting?" through interviews with experts in advertising, subscriptions, and alternative revenue models• Some independent creators with just 1,200 downloads per episode are making six-figure incomes from their podcasts• Advertising remains strong, but subscription models are gaining significant traction across the industry• Organizations like AIR (Association of Independent Radio Professionals) publish rate cards to promote fair compensation for podcast production roles• Quality podcast production requires adequate labor and resources – "good work takes labor"• Value-for-value models and cryptocurrency-based micropayments remain niche but have potential for growth• Event hosting, merchandise, and packaging content across multiple platforms are effective additional revenue streams• Podcasters are building communities through newsletters and events to strengthen audience relationships• AI tools help reduce labor-intensive aspects of production but raise questions about transparency and disclosure• The podcast industry faces potential regulatory challenges as governments implement content restrictions and age verificationSend James & Sam a messageSupport the showConnect With Us: Email: weekly@podnews.net Fediverse: @james@bne.social and @samsethi@podcastindex.social Support us: www.buzzsprout.com/1538779/support Get Podnews: podnews.net
Roger Nairn from JAR Podcast Solutions joins James Cridland to discuss the company's strategic rebrand from JAR Audio and their new systematic approach to branded podcasting. Nairn explains their JAR system (Job, Audience, Result) - a framework that treats podcasts as business solutions rather than marketing experiments.The conversation explores how brands are increasingly demanding measurable ROI from their podcast investments, moving beyond vanity metrics to track brand lift, consideration, and conversion through custom analytics stacks and partnerships with research firms like Signal Hill Insights. Nairn shares insights from campaigns including American Express's "Build it Braver" podcast, demonstrating how podcasts can drive specific business outcomes like increased purchase consideration.They also tackle the challenge of CEO-driven podcast initiatives, discussing when founder-hosted shows work versus when they become expensive indulgences, and why successful branded podcasts prioritise audience value over self-promotion.
James Cridland and Sam Sethi explore Spotify's mixed financial results showing strong overall growth but declining ad revenue, alongside their increasing focus on video podcasts at the expense of audio-only content.• Spotify's ads business struggling despite growth in users and profit• VP of Global Advertising Lee Brown leaving Spotify "by mutual agreement"• Video consumption growing 20 times faster than audio-only on Spotify• 16:9 image formats creating problems for traditional podcast artwork• JAR Audio rebranding to JAR Podcast Solutions with focus on measurable results: Roger Nairn explains how brands now see real value in podcasts beyond CEO vanity projects• RSS.com launching PAID (Programmatic Ads Inserted Dynamically) with $1 minimum payout• YouTube CEO Neil Mohan claiming "it's all over" for audio podcasting as video dominates• Acast financial results showing US becoming their largest market despite executive departures• Apple iOS enhanced dialogue feature improving podcast listening experience• Podcast image tag offering potential solution to artwork format challenges• Secure RSS and podcast monetization models being developed for premium content• Overcast apparently working on transcript features for podcasts• Rode introducing Call Me feature for remote podcast recording• True Fans positioning as a "value exchange" between creators and listenersVisit Buzzsprout.com for the tools, support and community to make sure you keep podcasting.Send James & Sam a messageSupport the showConnect With Us: Email: weekly@podnews.net Fediverse: @james@bne.social and @samsethi@podcastindex.social Support us: www.buzzsprout.com/1538779/support Get Podnews: podnews.net
Roger Nairn from JAR Podcast Solutions joins James Cridland to discuss the company's strategic rebrand from JAR Audio and their new systematic approach to branded podcasting. Nairn explains their JAR system (Job, Audience, Result) - a framework that treats podcasts as business solutions rather than marketing experiments.The conversation explores how brands are increasingly demanding measurable ROI from their podcast investments, moving beyond vanity metrics to track brand lift, consideration, and conversion through custom analytics stacks and partnerships with research firms like Signal Hill Insights. Nairn shares insights from campaigns including American Express's "Build it Braver" podcast, demonstrating how podcasts can drive specific business outcomes like increased purchase consideration.They also tackle the challenge of CEO-driven podcast initiatives, discussing when founder-hosted shows work versus when they become expensive indulgences, and why successful branded podcasts prioritise audience value over self-promotion.
With news of starvation in Gaza making headlines, Today presenter Nick Robinson conducted an interview with Israeli Government Spokesperson David Mencer that divided listeners and lit up our inbox. We hear what you had to say. Andrea Catherwood talks to radio futurologist James Cridland about BBC.com and the BBC app, the two platforms offered as alternatives to overseas listeners after the closure of BBC Sounds outside of the UK. Listeners from around the world give their honest reviews of the website and app as they get to grips with them. And we get some answers to some of your more specific questions - including the whereabouts of The Archers Podcast.Also, we hear another nomination for Interview of the Year - this time it's for Jonathan Agnew's recent interview with young registered blind cricketer Ravi, on Test Match Special. Presenter: Andrea Catherwood Producer: Pauline Moore Assistant Producer: Rebecca GuthrieA Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4
We have interviews with James Burtt from the newly-launched Pivot Productions; Liam Heffernan from Mercury Podcast Network who has just announced a new partnership with the Student Radio Association; and founder & CEO Will Malnati of At Will Media on taking IP from podcasts into other platforms.Plus - weekly podcast listening in the US has reached a staggering 773 million hours according to new data from Edison Research. This robust metric provides a more meaningful measurement than percentage reach, showing the growing intensity of podcast consumption while enabling better cross-media comparison.• Audioboom acquires UK podcast company Adelicious, maintaining both brands to serve different market segments• YouTube announces plans to demonetize inauthentic AI-generated content, raising questions about disclosure standards• New and updated podcast apps include Campfire (German), Fountain and PodhomeCheck us out at podnews.net for daily updates from across the podcast industry. If you want to support this show, visit weeklypodnews.net to become one of our valued power supporters.Send James & Sam a messageSupport the showConnect With Us: Email: weekly@podnews.net Fediverse: @james@bne.social and @samsethi@podcastindex.social Support us: www.buzzsprout.com/1538779/support Get Podnews: podnews.net
How do you run a daily podcast and newsletter every single day without burning out? Today we're joined by James Cridland, founder of Podnews, to find out how he keeps up with the fast-paced podcast industry while staying committed to an open ecosystem. We ask him about his daily workflow, why he chooses to self-host, and how he builds custom tools to simplify his process. James also elaborates on Podcasting 2.0, explaining new features like funding tags, Podroll recommendations, and cross-app comments that make podcasting more dynamic for creators and listeners alike. Episode Highlights: [02:59]James Cridland's Journey and Pod News[05:13] The Evolution of Podcasting[07:28] Understanding Podcasting 2.0[10:45] Podcasting 2.0 Features and Benefits[19:18] Monetization in Podcasting 2.0[24:09] Engagement and Future of Podcasting[26:03] Podcast Recommendations and Pod-Roll[32:47] Universal Directory of Creators[36:53] Creating Custom Tools for Podcasting[41:21] Self-Hosting Podcasts: Pros and Cons[48:13] Simplifying Podcast ProductionLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingGet Your Tickets for The Empowered Podcasting Conference:www.empoweredpodcasting.comVote For Podcasting Morning Chat for People's Choice Award: www.podcastawards.comPodNews:www.PodNews.netJames Cridland's Homemade Tools: https://podnews.net/article/tools-usedPodcast Analytics: https://op3.devPodcasting 2.0:https://podcasting2.orgRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to our 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”Brought 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
Spotify is supporting the new podcast namespace. Who'd have thought it?!Plus, we speak with Elena Tsakakis and Molly Bloom about kids podcasting, and what they learnt from their latest research.Send James & Sam a messageSupport the showConnect With Us: Email: weekly@podnews.net Fediverse: @james@bne.social and @samsethi@podcastindex.social Support us: www.buzzsprout.com/1538779/support Get Podnews: podnews.net
We speak with Michael Bayston about Acast's new initiative; plus, Alban Brooke on new tools for Buzzsprout podcasters everywhere - even us!Send James & Sam a messageSupport the showConnect With Us: Email: weekly@podnews.net Fediverse: @james@bne.social and @samsethi@podcastindex.social Support us: www.buzzsprout.com/1538779/support Get Podnews: podnews.net
What if your next big growth move isn't on social media... but good old-fashioned email? While Marc is gallivanting around Spain & Portugal, the crew digs into how email lists can build deeper connections and drive significant growth. We cover smart ways to repurpose your content, how to write subject lines that get clicks, and strategies for growing your list without feeling overwhelmed. You'll also hear why treating your subscribers like a real community, not solely a marketing chore, can change everything. Plus, James Cridland, editor of Podnews, drops in to share his tips for incentivizing signups and expanding your reach. We wrap things up by sharing our week's wins and what's going well behind the mic.Episode Highlights: [02:47] Icebreaker Question: Do you use an email list? [06:39] Repurposing Content for Newsletters[08:39] LinkedIn Newsletters and Analytics[10:14] Strategies for Effective Newsletters[16:32] Email Subscribers vs. Social Media Followers[19:47] Clip with Marc and Chris: List Building[21:27] Balancing Generosity and Monetization[23:48] Encouraging Email Marketing for Businesses[26:34] Leveraging Free Email Marketing Tools[26:52] Crafting Emails with ChatGPT[33:53] Maximizing Content with Newsletters[36:09] Insights from James Cridlin[44:53] Ethical Email Marketing[46:47] Weekly Wins and Wrap-UpLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingLife After Corporate with M. Shannon Hernandezhttps://pod.link/1500631278Hooks for social posts, blogs, and newsletters using AIhttps://Penpivot.comPodcast Strategy (Chris Stone)https://podcaststrategy.substack.com/Subject Lines That Stop The Scroll: https://bit.ly/3GLP4UVDo This Not That Marketing Tips: https://bit.ly/43advD2Remember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to our community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com and NextGenPodcaster.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
Ahead of The Podcast Show in London, Jason Carter spills the tea about what'll be there. Not literally.Also, Bauer Ireland's Ruth Fitzsimons. And, we look into Spotify's new play counts, and whatever they are.Send James & Sam a messageSupport the showConnect With Us: Email: weekly@podnews.net Fediverse: @james@bne.social and @samsethi@podcastindex.social Support us: www.buzzsprout.com/1538779/support Get Podnews: podnews.net
If you want to create sustainable content without burning out, James Cridland has a blueprint you'll want to steal. James is the editor of Podnews, a daily briefing covering everything happening in the world of podcasting. He's built a simple, sustainable system that allows him to publish high-quality content every single weekday (without sacrificing creativity, energy, or mental health). In this episode, you'll learn: How James built custom tools and automations to prevent burnout and streamline his workflow Why batching doesn't work for daily content—and the systems he uses instead How he balances creativity and consistency to keep Podnews fresh after years of daily publishing The three diversified revenue streams that keep Podnews profitable and resilient Why building your workflow around your natural energy cycles is a game-changer How a “test and build” mindset led to unexpected success with self-serve classified ads ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Love the show? We'd love a review! Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify—it helps more creators find us! ✅ Want to grow your visibility through podcast guesting? Check out how PodWritten can help: https://podwritten.com/services/ https://podwritten.com/
We speak with Stefano Fallaha from Podeo on podcasting in the Arab states, and Gotham Raj Anand from Hubhopper on Indian podcasting after YouTube. Plus, all the latest news from the podcast industry.We use chapters here, so skip through stories if you're a lightweight.Send James & Sam a messageSupport the showConnect With Us: Email: weekly@podnews.net Fediverse: @james@bne.social and @samsethi@podcastindex.social Support us: www.buzzsprout.com/1538779/support Get Podnews: podnews.net
Our special guest this week is Maya Prohovnik, VP and Head of Podcast Products at Spotify, who joins James Cridland to share insights on Spotify's latest innovations and what's next for podcasters on the platform.Meanwhile, industry leaders Dan Granger (Oxford Road) and Dan Misener (Bumper) have advocated for an Open Measurement Protocol for Podcasting—a call for interoperable, privacy-conscious standards and a unified taxonomy across platforms.In response, “friend of the show” John Spurlock joins Sam Sethi to introduce his proposed solution: Standard Podcast Consumption (SPC). This new data exchange format aims to facilitate the sharing of first-party metrics like Follower Count, Total Listener Time, and more between apps and hosting providers.James and I also review the hottest podcast news from this week. You can support this show by streaming SATs. You can give us feedback using the Buzzsprout fan mail link in our show notes, you can send us a Super Comment or become a PwR supporter like the Excellent 18 at weekly.podnews.netSend James & Sam a messageSupport the showConnect With Us: Email: weekly@podnews.net Fediverse: @james@bne.social and @samsethi@podcastindex.social Support us: www.buzzsprout.com/1538779/support Get Podnews: podnews.net
So… what is a podcast in 2025? As video takes over and platforms tighten their grip, the medium faces an identity crisis. In our final episode, we examine what's at stake and where podcasting might go next. You'll hear from industry leaders like Guy Raz, James Cridland, Dan Franks, and AJ Feliciano as they wrestle with the evolving definition of podcasting, the tension between independence and algorithms, and the future of audio-first storytelling. Because the word “podcast” might be up for debate—but its power is not.For the most comprehensive picture of what podcasting means to consumers today, check out our accompanying white paper with Edison Research, “What is a Podcast?: Preserving its Essence, Structuring for Expansion,” featuring quantitative and qualitative data compiled from over 4,000 Americans.Download the White Paper Here: https://oxfordroad.com/whats-a-podcastAnd if you're really invested in the future of podcasting, there's something you can do today. Help us bring YouTube, Spotify, and other platforms to the table—not to regulate, but to collaborate. Sign our petition for a shared definition, an open measurement framework, and a future where podcasting remains open, inclusive, and built to last.Add Your Name to the Petition Here: https://chng.it/6S5S7bPrjRSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
'A pivotal evolution for our company', says CEO. Sponsored by CoHost at Evolutions. How do you know if your audience is truly engaged? Fatima Zaidi of CoHost, James Cridland of Podnews, Sharon Taylor of Triton Digital, and Steve Pratt of The Creativity Business will tell you at Evolutions in Chicago. Join us tomorrow at 3.15pm. https://podnews.net/cc/2830 Visit https://podnews.net/update/hubbard-gamut for the story links in full, and to get our daily newsletter.
The Media Roundtable is back with our very special Podcasthon episode supporting the Koala Corps. Plus, a blockbuster industry edition with a round-up of last week's biggest audio industry moves.Fearless host James Ingrassia, (EVP of Client Services, Oxford Road) welcomes fellow audio all-stars:- James Cridland, (Editor, Podnews and Podcast Business Journal)- Neal Lucey, (EVP of Strategy & Product, Oxford Road)- Spencer Semonson, (Media Supervisor, Oxford Road)- Courtney O'Connor (Director of Podcast Media, Veritone One)“ If you cut your advertising, fewer people will buy your stuff.”- James Cridland, (Editor, Podnews and Podcast Business Journal) The team is talking: Podcasting for Good, YouTube Lite, Wondery's FAST moves, Tariffs vs Ad Budgets, and more. Let's jump in.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
The Media Roundtable is back with our very special Podcasthon episode supporting the Koala Corps. Plus, a blockbuster industry edition with a round-up of last week's biggest audio industry moves. Fearless host James Ingrassia, (EVP of Client Services, Oxford Road) welcomes fellow audio all-stars: - James Cridland, (Editor, Podnews and Podcast Business Journal) - Neal Lucey, (EVP of Strategy & Product, Oxford Road) - Spencer Semonson, (Media Supervisor, Oxford Road) - Courtney O'Connor (Director of Podcast Media, Veritone One) “ If you cut your advertising, fewer people will buy your stuff.” - James Cridland, (Editor, Podnews and Podcast Business Journal) The team is talking: Podcasting for Good, YouTube Lite, Wondery's FAST moves, Tariffs vs Ad Budgets, and more. Let's jump in.
In this episode, James Cridland, editor-in-chief of Podnews, is back with his bold predictions about where podcasting is headed — and how you can stay ahead of the curve.We're unpacking why downloads might not hold the top spot as the industry's gold standard for much longer, YouTube's growing role in podcast discovery (and its limitations), and how AI is adding convenience but not the creativity needed to stand out. James also explains the growing challenge of defining what a podcast really is as platforms like Spotify and YouTube continue to blur the lines.Whether you're starting a new show or scaling an existing one, you'll walk away from this episode with the know-how you need to stay ahead of industry trends and stay focused on what truly matters: creating content that connects and converts. Hit play and let's dive in.18:00 - Why IAB Downloads Might Soon Lose Their Gold Standard Status19:11 - The Role (and Limits) of YouTube in Podcast Discovery21:41 - What *Actually* Makes a Podcast a Podcast24:06 - Are AI Tools Saving Time or Killing Creativity?33:39 - Adapt or Get Left Behind: How to Capitalize on the Latest Trends in PodcastingEpisode Links:Podnews Daily (Podcast)Podnews.net (Daily Newsletter)PodcastBroker.comBuzzsprout.com/statsPodcastBusinessJournal.com/dataMake Noise: A Creator's Guide to Podcasting and Great Audio Storytelling by Eric NuzumOther Episodes You'll Enjoy:What's Changing in Podcasting and How to Stay Ahead→ This episode was recorded on the Deity VO-7UHave a question about launching or growing a podcast you want me to answer on air? Shoot me a text!Liked this episode? Share it! and tag me @thecourtneyelmer Love this show? Say thanks by writing a review Ready for a top podcast that converts listeners to clients? Book a strategy call Join me for our next Live Podcasting Workshop Connect with Court: Instagram | Linked In | PodLaunch HQ
In this episode, I'm joined by James Cridland from Podnews to explore the biggest changes shaking up the podcasting industry right now.So whether you're just starting out or you've been podcasting for years, James shares insights on what these shifts mean for your show and how to navigate them to stay ahead.From the rise of niche podcasts to why video might not be as essential as you think, you'll learn what it takes to create a podcast that lasts in today's evolving landscape.Ready to learn what's working now to grow your podcast? Hit play and let's dive in.0:00 – What's Driving the Biggest Shifts in Podcasting Today2:30 – The Rise of Niche Podcasts and Why They're Thriving5:45 – Why Video Isn't as Essential as Everyone Thinks9:15 – Forget Downloads: Here Are the Numbers That Actually Indicate Growth13:50 – Two Keys to Positioning Your Podcast for Long-Term SuccessEpisode Links:Podnews Daily (Podcast)Podnews.net (Daily Newsletter)PodcastBroker.comBuzzsprout.com/statsPodcastBusinessJournal.com/dataMake Noise: A Creator's Guide to Podcasting and Great Audio Storytelling by Eric NuzumOther Episodes You'll Enjoy:4 Must-Know Podcasting Predictions to Capitalize On This Year→ This episode was recorded on the Deity VO-7UHave a question about launching or growing a podcast you want me to answer on air? Shoot me a text!Liked this episode? Share it! and tag me @thecourtneyelmer Love this show? Say thanks by writing a review Ready for a top podcast that converts listeners to clients? Book a strategy call Join me for our next Live Podcasting Workshop Connect with Court: Instagram | Linked In | PodLaunch HQ
Podcasting 2.0 October 11th 2024 Episode 197: "Yay JSON!" Adam & Dave are joined by Daniel J Lewis to discuss old wounds of podcasting technology and and fan girlz! ShowNotes We are LIT Daniel J Lewis The Audacity to Podcast The Future of Podcasting Podgagement Episodes.FM PodID AI Podcasts listen notes AI Slop - Prayers answered! Free hosting will be filled with it Ironic - AI hosts The team behind Notebook LM has claimed they are working on a tool to detect AI-generated audio Generative AI Disclosures · Podcastindex-org/podcast-namespace · Discussion #663 And yet again Google has suspended Podcast Addict On podcast exclusivity - and public service broadcasting | James Cridland - radio futurologist New Media Money and Video Show - paywalls and exclusives V4V Baby! Only ONE metric: am I getting enough value in return? Donations are not payment in advance, they are value returned for services rendered Apple 3 hours to update yesterday Oscar Wallets The SplitKit Boost Board for Video V4V License is good now ------------------------------------- MKUltra chat Transcript Search What is Value4Value? - Read all about it at Value4Value.info V4V Stats Last Modified 10/11/2024 14:09:00 by Freedom Controller
Podcasting 2.0 August 23d 2024 Episode 190: "Chattelle" Adam & Dave are joined by James Cridland with a review of Podcast Movement and much much more! ShowNotes We are LIT We are for freedom! James Cridland The Big Android Bet Apple podcasts is for app store payments - warning! CDMC - Podmobile Funding Tag Episodes.FM Rob W thoughts Fountain NOSTR V4V incentives Oscar Wallets V4V License is good now ------------------------------------- MKUltra chat Transcript Search What is Value4Value? - Read all about it at Value4Value.info V4V Stats Last Modified 08/23/2024 14:40:00 by Freedom Controller