School of Podcasting - Plan, Launch, Grow and Monetize Your Podcast

Coming back from Podcast Movement, I've got a story that really drives home the point that nothing beats face-to-face networking. I mean, sure, we can all hop on Zoom and pretend we're connecting, but when you're actually sharing a meal with someone or just hanging out, that's where the magic happens. It's like the difference between texting your buddy and grabbing a beer – one is okay, but the other is where real connections are made. And let's be honest, who doesn't want to make meaningful connections while stuffing their face with overpriced convention center food?

Takeaways:

• Networking in person is way better than any online stuff, seriously, just trust me.
• Most podcasters are totally wasting their listeners' time with a simple fix in editing.
• Chapters are a cool tool to help listeners skip to what they actually want to hear.
• If you want your podcast to grow, you might need to jump into the Podcast Hot Seat.
• Cutting out unnecessary parts of interviews can save time and keep listeners happy, who knew?
• Feeling overwhelmed when starting a podcast is totally normal, like, welcome to the club.

Links referenced in this episode:

• schoolofpodcasting.com
• podcasthotseat.com
• tuulie.com
• Social Media News Live with Jeff Sieh
• Walt Disney World Radio with Lou Mongello

Mentioned in this episode:

Live Appearances - I'd Love To Meet You!

AUGUST 18-21, 2025 Podcast Movement, Dallas TX. (So Many Ways To Monetize Which One is Best For You? Talk). August 24-26, 2025 CEX, Cleveland, Oh. The Event for Content Entrepreneurs September 26-28 2005 Empowered Podcasting Conference, Uptown Charlotte, NC

Where Will I Be?

Join the #1 Podcast Education Site - The School of Podcasting

Adam Curry is the co-founder of Podcasting (and the co-host of the No Agenda Show). When asked about learning how to podcast Adam said, "The place to go with the guy who has taught more people how to podcast than anybody I know - Dave Jackson, School of Podcasting.com"

School of Podcasting

Question of the Month August 2025

Mark form Podcastbranding.co wants to know if you've ever hired someone to help you with your podcast? If so, for what purpose and were you satisfied with the outcome? Go to www.schoolofpodcasting.com and answer the question by August 22nd 2025. When you answer the question, tell us a little bit about your show (elevator pitch) and where we can find it (your website so I can link to it)

Question of the Month

I've known Dave Hooper (host of Build a Big Podcast and Author of Big Podcast) since he put on the radio for the first time on Music Business Radio. When I heard that Dave had scored a job at Sirius I wanted the inside scoop on what it's like to work there, and what the heck is a "Producer."

Dave explains that he got the job while being in "a funk" and he used that situation to introduce more "real" topics to channel 146 at 7 AM and Road Dog Trucking.

I also share one sentence that jumped out at me from the Taylor Swift appearance on the new heights show.

Takeaways:

• Ever wondered what it’s like at Sirius Satellite Radio? Well, buckle up, buddy, because David Hooper is here to spill the tea on some wild stories, including a hilarious instance of dead air that’ll make you cringe. Seriously, it’s gold.
• So, David’s job is basically a mix of five different roles. I mean, booking guests, prepping shows, running the board, cutting promos—what's next, making coffee? It’s a circus behind the scenes, folks!
• We all know live radio can be a hot mess, right? David shares how he’s had to dust off some old skills and navigate the chaos of live broadcasting. Spoiler: mistakes happen, and dead air is just part of the fun!
• Turns out, podcasting and satellite radio aren’t that different after all. Both have their own unique challenges, but the real magic lies in connecting with the audience and building that sweet community vibe.
• David’s new gig at Sirius has taught him some serious life skills, like staying calm and collected under pressure. Who knew being a radio producer would be like a masterclass in Zen?
• At the end of the day, it's all about community and connection. David’s show is like a virtual truck stop, bringing people together to chat about everything from addiction to marriage on the road. Seriously, where else can you get that kind of therapy?

Links Mentioned

Build a Big Podcast

Big Podcast Book

Channel 146

School of Podcasting

Power of Podcasting

Mentioned in this episode:

Help When You Don't Know Where To Start

I get it. I talk to people looking to launch or grow their podcast. "“There’s too much gear/software — I don’t know what I need.” Microphones, mixers, hosting platforms, editing software — it’s easy to get lost. Analysis paralysis kicks in fast. I help podcasters. I've been doing it 20 years. Let me help. Dave Jackson schoolofpodcasting.com/join

School of Podcasting

Live Appearances - I'd Love To Meet You!

AUGUST 18-21, 2025 Podcast Movement, Dallas TX. (So Many Ways To Monetize Which One is Best For You? Talk). August 24-26, 2025 CEX, Cleveland, Oh. The Event for Content Entrepreneurs September 26-28 2005 Empowered Podcasting Conference, Uptown Charlotte, NC

Where Will I Be?

Question of the Month August 2025

Mark form Podcastbranding.co wants to know if you've ever hired someone to help you with your podcast? If so, for what purpose and were you...

Justin Moore is here to tell us how to snag sponsors like a pro. We chat about his book, Sponsor Magnet. Seriously, if you’re trying to get sponsors for your podcast, this is the book you need—like, yesterday.

He dives into the absurdities of podcast monetization and how it’s not just about your download numbers but about your influence. Justin shares some gold nuggets on pitching strategies and why sending out a basic media kit is basically waving a white flag in the sponsorship battle. So, grab a snack, sit back, and let’s unravel the crazy world of podcast sponsorships together!

This show is brought to you buy the School of Podcasting

Takeaways:

• In the world of podcasting, having a solid media kit is apparently as useful as a chocolate teapot, so maybe just don’t bother with it.
• Justin Moore's book 'Sponsor Magnet' is the secret sauce for podcasters looking to snag sponsors without losing their minds.
• Podcasters are taught to monetize their audience, not just their podcast, which is a revelation that could make us all rich - or at least less broke.
• When pitching to sponsors, forget the cookie-cutter approach; make your pitch relevant to their current campaigns and watch the magic happen!
• Video content has a distinct edge over audio when it comes to attracting sponsorships, because brands love to reuse content like it’s a favorite pair of jeans.
• If you get feedback from your audience about a sponsored product, don’t just sweep it under the rug; share it with the brand to improve future campaigns.
• Learn the A.R.C.H. and R.O.P.E. strategies to get more money coming your way.

Links referenced in this episode:

• schoolofpodcasting.com
• sponsormagnet.com
• creatorwizard.com
• Sponsor Games
• Justin's Newsletter with Sponsors looking to partner
• Sponsor Magnet - the Podcast
• Justin's YouTube Channel
• Sponsor Magnet Audio Book
• Sponsor Magnet on Amazon

This is episode 996 of the School of Podcasting

Mentioned in this episode:

Quit Thinking About It and START THAT PODCAST

If you have ever turned down the radio to hear your phone in the car, you know how to mix audio. If you have ever attached a photo to an email, you know how to upload an mp3 to a media host. Deleting text in Word is the same as delete audio in audacity. Yes, there is a learning curve but it's not as scary as you think. I'll be there the whole way, and you can join worry free with a 30 day money-back guarantee. Go to schoolofpodcasting.com/join

Filler words. We all know them, we all use them, and let’s be real, they’re annoying. You might think it’s just you fumbling through a sentence with a bunch of ‘uhs’ and ‘ums’, but guess what? We’re all in the same boat, paddling away from clarity and straight into the sea of confusion.

In this episode, I dig into the strategies to kick those pesky crutch words to the curb. We chat about how you can sound smarter (yes, you heard that right) by practicing your communication skills and being more aware of what’s coming out of your mouth. With tips ranging from joining a Toastmasters club to simply taking a pause instead of filling the space with ‘you knows,’ we’re here to help you become the smooth-talking superstar you were meant to be. So let’s ditch the filler words together and find out how to express ourselves without sounding like we’re stuck in a loop of hesitation!

What Stays and What Goes?

For me, any time I can make myself or a guest sound smarter I will do it. For me, I go for the low hanging fruit. This is when um someone just has um a standalone um all by itself. You can easily highlight it and press delete. The ums I leave alone are those that run into another word. 

Tool like Descript and Riverside have built in tools to remover filler words. Be careful with these as they can be a bit aggressive. A good edit is one that doesn't sound like an edit was made. This is why I don't obsess over every single filler words because we all occasionally say "um." It becomes an issue when people lose sight of what you're saying because they are distracted by how you are saying it.

Takeaways:

• Filler words are the annoying little gremlins of speech we all battle with, and they're everywhere.
• Practicing with Toastmasters is like getting a gym membership for your speaking skills, minus the sweat.
• Confidence is key; the more prepared you are, the less you sound like a crutch-word factory.
• Taking pauses instead of using filler words is like giving your brain time to catch up with your mouth, which is crucial.
• Editing your recordings helps you become painfully aware of those pesky fillers, so you can kick them to the curb.
• Using outlines and scripts can save you from sounding like you're making it up as you go, and trust me, that's a lifesaver!

Links referenced in this episode:

• schoolofpodcasting.com
• podcasteditoracademy.com
• thepharmacistvoice.com
• perrysburgpodcast.com
• welcometoearthstories.com
• askralph.com
• Descript
• Riverside
• Toastmasters

Mentioned in this episode:

Podcasting In Six Weeks - Register Today!

Ever wanted to start your own podcast but didn't know where to begin? Imagine creating and launching your podcast in just six weeks! Join our...

Ozzy Osbourne's recent passing has got me feeling all sorts of ways. I mean, who didn’t grow up jamming to ‘Crazy Train’ or wishing we could be half as cool as him? This isn’t just about mourning a rock legend; it’s about learning from the antics of a guy who built an empire on being unapologetically himself. So today, I’m diving deep into 15 lessons that podcasters can snag from Ozzy’s playbook. From being true to yourself (and not giving a hoot about the haters) to surrounding yourself with good people (looking at you, Sharon), I’m spilling the tea on how to keep your podcast alive and vibrant. Plus, I’ll share some wild stories about Ozzy’s crazy life that’ll make you laugh and cringe at the same time. Buckle up, because we’re about to rock this podcast world with some serious, Ozzy-inspired vibes!

Mentioned In This Episode

WDW Radio Podcast

Lou Monegello's Tour

Battery Organizer (aff)

School of Podcasting

Takeaways:

• Ozzy Osbourne may have died, but his legacy of being unapologetically himself lives on forever.
• Lessons from Ozzy include being true to yourself and ignoring the critics who just don't get it.
• Surrounding yourself with good people is key; even Ozzy had Sharon in his corner.
• Don't sweat perfection when creating content; just get out there and do it!

Mentioned in this episode:

Question of the Month August 2025

Mark form Podcastbranding.co wants to know if you've ever hired someone to help you with your podcast? If so, for what purpose and were you satisfied with the outcome? Go to www.schoolofpodcasting.com and answer the question by August 22nd 2025. When you answer the question, tell us a little bit about your show (elevator pitch) and where we can find it (your website so I can link to it)

Question of the Month

Live Appearances - I'd Love To Meet You!

AUGUST 18-21, 2025 Podcast Movement, Dallas TX. (So Many Ways To Monetize Which One is Best For You? Talk). August 24-26, 2025 CEX, Cleveland, Oh. The Event for Content Entrepreneurs September 26-28 2005 Empowered Podcasting Conference, Uptown Charlotte, NC

Where Will I Be?

Quit Thinking About It and START THAT PODCAST

If you have ever turned down the radio to hear your phone in the car, you know how to mix audio. If you have ever attached a photo to an email, you know how to upload an mp3 to a media host. Deleting text in Word is the same as delete audio in audacity. Yes, there is a learning curve but it's not as scary as you think. I'll be there the whole way, and you can join worry free with a 30 day money-back guarantee. Go to schoolofpodcasting.com/join

School of Podcasting

Traci DeForge is here to her knowledge about podcasting for your business without feeling like a total salesy weirdo. She’s busting the myth that you need 10,000 downloads to make a buck—seriously, you can start monetizing with just 1,500 listeners. We talk about how to weave your podcast into your business strategy without sounding like a used car salesman. If you’ve ever felt awkward about asking for sales, Traci’s got the lowdown on how to do it without the cringe. So, grab your earbuds and get ready to learn how to turn your podcast into a money-making machine while keeping it real and relatable!

Takeaways:

• Most podcasters wrongly believe they need to drop $10k to start monetizing.
• Traci DeForge busted the myth that you need 10,000 listeners; 1,500 can do it too!
• Podcasting is all about strategy; it’s not just talking into a mic, folks!
• You've got to view your podcast as part of your whole business model, not just a side gig.
• Feeling salesy? Get over it! Your mindset can really change how you sell.
• If you don't ask for what you're worth, you might be leaving money on the table!

Links referenced in this episode:

• schoolofpodcasting.com
• produceyourpodcast.com
• podpage.com
• Secrets of Closing the Sale - Zig Ziglar (Audible)

Traci DeForge

Helping business owners & brands turn their expertise into strategic podcasts that build authority, attract qualified leads & drive revenue. Full-service, 360° podcast solutions from strategy to sponsorship.

As Founder & CEO of Produce Your Podcast, I help business owners, brands, and thought leaders transform their expertise into strategic media platforms that build authority, attract qualified leads, and generate revenue. From early-stage startups to my work with Fortune 500 companies, including Google, Hilton, Weight Watchers International, Microsoft, and British Airways, I am internationally recognized for identifying successful business development opportunities for innovative growth.

Recognized as a Top 10 Podcasting Services Provider by Media & Entertainment Business Review (2024), we’ve launched and managed over 160 B2B and B2C podcasts, supporting startups and global brands across the technology, legal, finance, and healthcare sectors.

With 30+ years of experience in award-winning media production, broadcast radio, and business development, I developed a full-service podcasting model delivering broadcast-quality production, strategic brand positioning, and measurable business outcomes. From concept to launch, audience growth to monetization, our proprietary workflow equips clients with a turnkey system for success, aligned with their marketing, sales, and content creation goals. READ MORE

Mentioned in this episode:

Question of the Month August 2025

Mark form Podcastbranding.co wants to know if you've ever hired someone to help you with your podcast? If so, for what purpose and were you satisfied with the outcome? Go to www.schoolofpodcasting.com and answer the question by August 22nd 2025. When you answer the question, tell us a little bit about your show (elevator pitch) and where we can find it (your website so I can link to it)

Question of the

Are Spotify and YouTube poisoning podcasting?

I keep hearing how "What used to work in the past - doesn't work anymore? Well I disagree. Making great content that resonates with your audience has been around since the early days of radio, and if it make them FEEL something, you've got something that is golden.

Giant companies always put profit over people, and with the latest AI band called the Velvet Sundown which has six figure streams. Why are AI Bands better than real musicians?

• They don't get sick
• They don't complain about not getting paid
• They can provide more music, more frequently

So if the world starts to accept AI artists, if you're Spotify, why wouldn't you introduce an AI podcaster to deliver an evergreen topic? Spotify could promote it to make it popular and then run advertising against it and not have to worry about splitting the revenue with a podcaster.

Both YouTube and Spotify entice you in with free services, and then once you grow dependent on them, they can do whatever they want and you don't have a lot of control. If you say the wrong thing, you're kicked off the platform. Rosanne Barr (who is Jewish) for saying something deemed hate speech about Jewish people while she is herself Jewish. It was Sarcasm. Rosanne started her career as a comedian.

Big Companies Often Put Profit Over Doing the Right Thing

Purdue Pharma has been accused of mislabeling opioids that lead to lots of overdoses. Johnson and Johnson faced lawsuits about cancer and talcum power. Wells Fargo was fined millions for having employees open millions of account without the customer consent. I could go on and assemble a very long list. Just keep your eyes open, and watch as these companies that have come into podcasting with free offerings to interrupt the space, take control and bend it to suit their needs (not those of the host or the listener).

Sponsor Magnet Book Review

The Ultimate Book on Sponsorships/Partnerships, "Sponsor Magnet: How to Attract, Price, & Execute Your Dream Brand Partnerships" by Justin Moore. It is THE book for those looking to create partnerships with brand (not just a one time payment).

The book shows you how to find out who to talk to, what to say, how to say it, and to overdeliver to they keep sponsoring the show. The audio book has bonus content that was very cool as you hear people talking about putting the strategies into practice. You can get it on Audible if you're more of a listener than reader.

Takeaways:

• If you're hunting for sponsors, check out the book 'Sponsor Magnet' - it's a game changer.
• Podcasts don't need to follow trends; old-school content is still valuable and effective.
• Big corporations could ruin podcasting, so let's just not invite them to the party.
• YouTube is saying things that make no sense. A CD is not a cassette.
• Spotify seems to have issue always delivering all the facts about their activities.
• Hashtags no longer carry any clout on instagram per Brock Johnson
• A podcast is audio, video or pdf delivered via RSS
• Podcasting existed before people put in advertisements, and it will exist if advertising goes away. Advertising is ONE way to monetize.

Links referenced in this episode:

• schoolofpodcasting.com

Juggling podcasting and personal life can feel like trying to balance on a three-legged stool while juggling flaming torches. In this episode, I look into the not-so-secret ingredients for maintaining a healthy work-life balance as a podcaster.

We kick things off with a hard-hitting question: what happens when your love for podcasting starts to mess with your health and relationships? It's a real thing, folks, and I’ve seen it happen. I share my personal stories, including the ups and downs of my own marriages, and throw in some sarcastic wisdom learned from the school of hard knocks. I'm not claiming to be relationship experts, but we’ve been around the block a few times.

I break down a simple yet effective framework for content creators: health, attitude, and support. Yes, I know, it sounds like a motivational poster, but stick with me.

If you're not healthy enough to hit record, or if your attitude sounds like you just woke up on the wrong side of the bed, guess what? Your podcast is gonna suck. And don’t even get me started on the importance of having a supportive partner who doesn’t roll their eyes every time you mention your latest podcast episode.

I share tips on how to set expectations with your spouse, maximize your time, and avoid those sneaky time-sucking distractions like binge-watching YouTube shorts at 2 AM. Trust me, your future self will thank you.

By the end, you'll walk away with practical advice on how to keep your relationships intact while you chase your podcasting dreams. From date nights to timeouts during arguments, I’ve got you covered. It’s all about being intentional and proactive in nurturing your personal life while you’re busy building your podcast empire. And let’s be real, no one wants to end up in a messy divorce because they spent too much time talking to a mic instead of their partner. So grab your headphones and let’s get to it!

Links referenced in this episode:

• schoolofpodcasting.com
• notejoy.com
• todoist.com
• vidiq.com
• VidIQ Short Video About Thumbnails and Titles.
• schoolofpodcasting.com/contact
• The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People Book
• Love and Respect: The Love She Most Desires; The Respect He Desperately Needs

Mentioned in this episode:

Check Out Dave's Newsletter With Behind the Scenes Content

In each issue of Podcasting Observations, I share my thoughts on what is happening in the podcasting space, my latest content, and things that have caught my eye. I also may ask for your opinion. Join the free community

Podcasting Observations

Live Appearances - I'd Love To Meet You!

AUGUST 18-21, 2025 Podcast Movement, Dallas TX. (So Many Ways To Monetize Which One is Best For You? Talk). August 24-26, 2025 CEX, Cleveland, Oh. The Event for Content Entrepreneurs September 26-28 2005 Empowered Podcasting Conference, Uptown Charlotte, NC

Where Will I Be?

Podcasting In Six Weeks - Register...

In this month's "Question of the Month," I wanted to explore the discrepancy between Spotify's perceived dominance and the actual listening habits of podcasters. Despite frequent headlines touting Spotify as the number one streaming platform, my personal statistics and community feedback tell a different story. By surveying my audience about their platform preferences, I uncovered that Apple remains the top choice for most listeners, challenging the narrative often presented in media reports about Spotify's market leadership.

Thanks to everyone who chimed in!

Gear Review: HollyLand Lark M2s Wireless Lavalier System

Quick Take:

I was genuinely impressed by the Holly Land Lark M2s - this tiny microphone packs a surprisingly warm sound. At around $150, it's a solid investment for podcasters and content creators.

Key Features:

• Compact wireless lavalier microphone system
• Versatile receiver with USB-C and headphone jack connectivity
• Compatible with phones and recorders (I used my Rodecaster Duo)
• Built-in noise reduction app
• Option to record two mics on separate channels for post-production editing

Pro Tip: Grab this from Sweetwater. They offer:

• Extended warranties
• Killer customer service
• Competitive pricing
• Free shipping (often cheaper than Amazon)
• FREE CANDY<<<<<

Noise Reduction: The app's built-in feature is decent - not perfect, but definitely helpful. Pro move? Set up both mics on separate channels so you can fine-tune your audio in post-production.

Bottom Line: The Lark M2s is a compact, versatile mic system that punches above its weight. Definitely worth checking out for podcasters looking to upgrade their audio game.

Takeaways:

• The new Hollyland Lark M2S microphone sounds surprisingly warm, which totally blew my mind!
• Spotify claims to be the number one podcast platform, but the real stats tell a different tale.
• Charging guests to appear on your podcast? Brace yourself, the FTC has some rules you need to follow!
• Using music in your podcast? Be careful, because Spotify's bots don’t care about your permissions!
• It's always a good idea to double-check the facts you find online, especially from big companies!
• Exercise is tough, but once you get through it, you'll feel so proud of yourself, like you just conquered a mountain!

Links referenced in this episode:

• Hollyland Lark M2S Wireless Lavalier System
• schoolofpodcasting.com
• thehoodratrecap.com
• createartpodcast.com
• findapodcastabout.xyz
• passacls.com
• tkbpodcaststudios.com