Your Podcast Consultant: Podcast Tips To Avoid Podcasting Mistakes - podcast cover

Your Podcast Consultant: Podcast Tips To Avoid Podcasting Mistakes

Small Podcast lessons (less than 9 minutes) with big value to help you plan, launch, and grow your podcast from Hall of Fame Podcaster Dave Jackson This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy
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Episodes

The YouTube Myth: Just Talk and Go?

Jumping into the world of YouTube isn’t just about pointing a camera and chatting away. Sure, that sounds like a walk in the park, but it’s actually more like a hike up a mountain with a backpack full of gear. You’ll need a decent camera, lighting that doesn’t make you look like a ghost, and let’s not forget the audio – because, believe me, if your audio is garbage, you might as well be not start video. Everyone’s quick to say, ‘Oh, it’s easy!’ But if you want to grow your channel, it’s not just...

Jul 17, 20257 minEp. 209

Puppies and Podcasts: The Weird Connection You Didn’t Know You Needed

Launching a podcast without a domain? Yeah, that’s a big no-no. It’s like trying to adopt a puppy and then saying, “Hey, where’s the leash?” In this episode, we tackle the absolute must-have of podcasting—your own domain name. You want people to find your adorable little show, right? So, let’s make sure they have a place to go when they ask, “Where’s your podcast?” We dish out the wisdom on why having your own website is the best way to keep your podcast from going missing. Grab your notepad bec...

Jul 10, 202511 minEp. 208

Returning After a Long Hiatus

So, you’ve taken a long break from your podcast—like a “I forgot how to talk to a mic” kind of break—and now you’re wondering how to get back in the game. Well, I’m here to explain on how to restart without losing your marbles or your listeners. First off, if you ditched your show for a while, don’t sweat it! Just let your audience know you’re back and ready to rock. No need for a dramatic apology; they might not even remember why you vanished. Seriously, just dive back in, figure out what you w...

Jul 03, 20259 minEp. 207

Jaws Turns 50: What That Shark Can Teach Us About Podcasting

Turning 50 is a big deal, especially for a classic like Jaws, and boy, does it have a lot to teach us about podcasting. Picture this: a film that was barely held together by duct tape and creativity, yet it became a cultural phenomenon. The behind-the-scenes drama? A mechanical shark that was more trouble than it was worth and a filming schedule that doubled in time. But instead of throwing in the towel, Steven Spielberg and crew got creative. They used suspense, killer music, and a whole lot of...

Jun 26, 20259 minEp. 206

Talk Like Nobody's Listening: The Art of Podcasting Without a Script!

So, you’re stuck reading a script for your podcast and it feels as exciting as watching paint dry, huh? Well, let's shake things up! The key here is to stop sounding like a robot and start talking like a human. We’re getting into how to ditch that crutch of a script and get comfortable just chatting it up. You’ll learn to write like you talk—because, spoiler alert, we don’t actually talk like we write. Trust me, it’s all about knowing your material and letting your personality shine through. So ...

Jun 19, 202510 minEp. 205

Moving Your Podcast? Here’s How Not to Mess It Up!

We dive into the world of podcasting domains like pros (or at least like folks who pretend to know what they’re talking about). I mean, have you ever tried to switch your podcast domain? It’s like moving your entire life, but instead of packing boxes, you’re just messing with a bunch of technical stuff that could totally break your show. We're talking about RSS feeds, redirects, and all that nerdy mumbo-jumbo that sounds way more complicated than it really is. I’m here to spill the secrets and s...

Jun 12, 20258 minEp. 204

How to do a call in show with 2 hosts?

Ever wondered how to pull off a call-in show when your co-host is chilling in another state? Well, I'm here to spill the beans on my chaotic journey of figuring out this wild ride. Spoiler alert: it’s not all rainbows and butterflies, especially when echoes and pranksters come into play. I’ll share my secret sauce, which includes some fancy gear, a dash of sarcasm, and a whole lot of learning from my epic fails. So grab your headphones and let's dive into the absurdity of live podcasting, where ...

Jun 05, 202510 minEp. 203

Stop! Don’t Upload That Picture to Your Media Host!

Adding images to your media host show notes? Yeah, that’s a recipe for disaster. I mean, picture this: you drop a brand new episode, and instead of a visually stunning experience, your notes look like a digital explosion. Not cute, right? So, let’s get real – I’m here to help you understand why keeping those images on your website is the best strategy. Trust me, your podcast will thank you, and you won’t be left with formatting chaos that makes your show look like a toddler designed it. Seriousl...

May 29, 202510 minEp. 202

Red Flags for Podcast Guests: How to Spot 'Em

Let's chat about the biggest red flag when it comes to podcast guests: the obsession with audience size . Seriously, if the first thing a potential guest wants to know is how many downloads your show gets, it’s a major warning sign. It’s like they’re only interested in what they can milk out of your audience, rather than the value they can bring. Today I look at why that’s a total turn-off and how the best guests focus on delivering value instead of just self-promotion. We also share some hilari...

May 22, 20259 minEp. 201

Time Hacks for Podcasters: Fitting Podcasting into Your Busy Schedule

In this episode, we look at essential strategies for fitting podcasting into a hectic schedule. Whether you're balancing a full-time job, family, or other commitments, maintaining consistency in podcast creation can be challenging. I share time management hacks and scheduling tips tailored for busy podcasters like you. Episode Highlights: Introduction to Consistent Podcasting: Why consistency matters and how it can enhance your connection with your audience. Understanding Your Time: Learn the im...

May 12, 20256 minEp. 200

Why 20 Downloads Isn’t a Total Fail (Seriously!)

So, someone on Reddit wrote, “My podcast stinks,” and I think we should talk about it. Spoiler alert: just because your download numbers are low doesn’t mean your podcast is a total flop—like, it’s not the end of the world if you’re not raking in those big numbers. We chat about how it’s not just about the content but also the delivery, because if your audio sounds like it’s coming from a tin can, uh, good luck with that! We also throw around some ideas on getting feedback, practicing your craft...

May 05, 20259 minEp. 199

Why Can't You Get Guests? I've Got The Answer

So, you're having trouble getting guests on your podcast? That can be frustrating. But have you taken a good look at your website lately? Because sometimes the issue isn’t your pitch—it’s your presentation. If your site looks like it hasn’t been updated since the MySpace days, it could be sending the wrong message. In this episode, we’re taking a closer look at podcast websites and how a few simple mistakes could be turning off potential guests before they even hear your show. Don’t worry—we’ll ...

Apr 29, 20258 minEp. 198

The Surprising Secret to a Growing Email List

Growing your newsletter can feel like trying to find a needle in a haystack, right? But fear not, because I've got a strategy that’s so simple, you might just roll your eyes and think it can’t be real. Spoiler alert: it is. We can use Google Analytics (or Fathom stats) to figure out which pages on your website are actually getting some love. Trust me, you might be shocked to discover that old blog post from 2019 is still raking in the clicks while your latest masterpiece is gathering virtual dus...

Apr 12, 20256 minEp. 197

Frazzled Minds Make Frazzled Choices

Bad Environments Lead to Bad Decisions Bad environments lead to bad decisions, and boy, do we have stories to share! Ever looked back at some of your life choices and thought, “What on Earth was I thinking?” Yeah, me too! We run into the chaos of those moments when our brains were more frazzled than a cat in a room full of rocking chairs. We chat about how a little bit of panic can turn us into decision-making nincompoops, like forgetting to get a website for our podcast. Spoiler alert: Having a...

Mar 22, 20259 minEp. 196

Sponsorship Shenanigans: How Not to Blow Your First Deal

Ever wondered how to navigate the wild world of podcast sponsorship? Well, grab your favorite snack and settle in because we’re diving deep into everything you need to know about snagging that sweet sponsorship deal. Picture this: you’re in a Facebook group, and someone’s practically begging for help because they’re clueless about how to answer a potential sponsor's questions. Yup, that’s our starting point! We'll dig into the nitty-gritty of what sponsors want, how to present your podcast’s val...

Mar 07, 202510 minEp. 195

Serving Algorithms or Serving Humans?

Algorithms are like that friend who bails you out one minute and then ghost you the next. They can help you reach your audience or throw your content into the digital abyss. This episode looks into the wild world of serving both our lovely audience and those picky, mood-swinging algorithms. We’re talking about how they can boost small creators or stomp them into the ground based on some arbitrary rules they change on a whim. So, grab your favorite snack and let’s break down the double-edged swor...

Feb 21, 20258 minEp. 194

Podcaster Blues: When Your Show Just Won't Take Off

So, your podcast isn’t growing, huh? Yeah, it’s like throwing spaghetti at the wall and hoping it sticks, but all you get is a messy wall. When I was married I bought my wife flowers once a week. You won't believe what she said to me! Spoiler alert: if you’re not giving them what they want, they’re gonna ghost you faster than a bad date. So, grab your headphones, and let’s get to the bottom of this podcasting conundrum together! Takeaways: Sometimes, taking a break from your podcast can slow you...

Feb 14, 20259 minEp. 193

Don't Let Tech Scare You: Podcasting Is Easier Than You Think!

If you're sitting there sweating bullets about diving into the world of podcasting because technology gives you the heebie-jeebies, relax, my friend. The real villain stopping you isn’t the tech; it’s your brain playing tricks on you. Seriously, we chat about how the fear of technology is just a fancy excuse to avoid trying something new. Trust me, if you turn down the radio when your phone rings, you can totally handle mixing audio for your podcast. It might seem tough at first, but like everyt...

Feb 07, 202511 minEp. 192

Stop Selling, Start Helping: The Secret to Self-Promotion in Podcasting

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

Jan 25, 20258 minEp. 191

Is Podcasting Still Worth It in 2025?

Is it worth starting a podcast in 2025? Dave Jackson dives into this question, addressing common concerns about the podcasting landscape and whether it remains a viable medium. He emphasizes that despite the increase in podcasts and competition, the audience for podcasts continues to grow yearly. Drawing an analogy to college football, he illustrates that passion and the desire to share a message are key motivators for many podcasters, regardless of the competitive environment. Jackson also high...

Jan 18, 202510 minEp. 190

Is Audio on YouTube Worth It? Here’s My Take

Should you put your audio podcast on YouTube? The answer, as Dave Jackson explains, is a resounding yes if you’re not currently utilizing the platform. With YouTube being the second largest search engine, it offers a valuable opportunity for podcasters to expand their audience without any significant investment of time or resources. Even if you have an audio podcast, uploading it to YouTube can lead to greater visibility and potential growth, thanks to the YouTube algorithm's recommendation engi...

Jan 11, 20256 minEp. 189

Avoid These Common Corporate Podcast Pitfalls

Starting a corporate podcast can be a daunting task, and one of the biggest mistakes you can make is choosing a host who isn't fully committed to the project. The importance of selecting a passionate host who understands the podcast is a company initiative, not a personal platform. He shares valuable insights from his extensive experience in the podcasting industry, highlighting the need for a shared email account for access and continuity, and the significance of defining a clear purpose for th...

Jan 02, 20258 minEp. 188

The Pros and Cons of AI in Podcasting: My Take on NotebookLM

NotebookLM is a new AI tool that allows users to upload PDFs and generate podcast content, raising questions about the role of AI in the podcasting world. Dave Jackson shares his insights on this technology, discussing both its potential benefits and drawbacks. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity and personal input in podcasting, warning against relying solely on AI for content creation. While acknowledging the convenience of tools like NotebookLM, he stresses that true thought leadersh...

Dec 26, 20248 minEp. 187

Mastering Content Consistency: Lessons from Hallmark Movies

Staying consistent with your podcast content is crucial for meeting your audience's expectations and fostering loyalty. Dave Jackson emphasizes the importance of sticking to a winning formula, much like the predictability of a Hallmark movie that audiences know and love. As he shares insights from his extensive experience in podcasting, he highlights how familiarity can create a warm and cozy feeling for listeners, making them more likely to return. By avoiding drastic changes once your show sta...

Dec 19, 202410 minEp. 186

Why Aren't More People Listening to Your Podcast?

Are you wondering why more people aren’t tuning into your podcast? The truth is, it often comes down to the content you’re producing and how well it resonates with your audience. In this episode, Dave Jackson dives into the factors that influence podcast discoverability and listener engagement, emphasizing the importance of consistency and targeted content. He shares insights on how to inspire your audience to share your show with others, pointing out that even a small number of listeners can be...

Dec 06, 202410 minEp. 185

Don't Start a Podcast Without This Essential Ingredient

If you're contemplating starting a podcast, one crucial factor to consider is your passion for the topic. When a listener recently asked me about launching a history podcast, I emphasized that success isn't about the number of listeners but about having content you genuinely love and a drive to share it. I shared the inspiring story of Zita Christian, who started a podcast about her experiences with dementia—not because she was chasing popularity but because she wanted to help others. Her purpos...

Nov 08, 20249 minEp. 184

The Real Secret to Monetizing Your Podcast: It’s Not What You Think

The podcasting landscape is often clouded by persistent myths that can derail the efforts of even the most dedicated creators. In this enlightening session, Dave Jackson confronts the widely held belief that consistency in episode release is the primary driver of success. While he acknowledges the importance of being reliable in scheduling, he vehemently asserts that the heart of a successful podcast lies in its content. Jackson's philosophy is clear: a compelling episode that resonates with lis...

Nov 01, 202412 minEp. 183

Forget the Critics: Love Your Podcast Voice

Navigating the complexities of podcasting can be challenging, especially when faced with self-doubt and external criticism. In a recent discussion, the importance of authenticity in voice and presentation was emphasized, particularly in response to a query from Lisa McLean regarding complaints about her voice as a female Australian podcaster. The host, Dave Jackson, passionately argues against the idea of cloning one’s voice, suggesting that embracing one’s unique identity is far more valuable. ...

Oct 10, 20248 minEp. 182

Avoiding Middlemen: Directly Monetizing Your Podcast

Why would you put a limit on how much someone in your audience would give to you as a way of saying "Thanks" for doing your show? When someone creates a product, they need to ask, "Who is this for, and what problem does this product solve." Today I share my confusion over a tool that is supposed to make it easy to donate to you (it's not hard), and they take 10% Mentioned In This Episode Buy Me a Coffee The School of Podcasting Schedule a Coaching Call Episode on Best Tools For Premium Content L...

Sep 13, 20249 minEp. 181

Should I release my entire podcast seasons at once?

I saw this question from Stanley Adoyi in a Facebook group and thought I'd use it today. If you have a question you can leave it at www.podcastconsultant.com/voicemail Seasons makes sense in two situations: 1. You have a team of 19 flying around the world to do interviews and they are tried. 2. You are having so much mental stress that your health and family are affected (and maybe should have thought a little more about your podcast schedule before launch). If you're not in the above two situat...

Aug 09, 20248 minEp. 180
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