The Jag Show: Podcast Tips, Tricks, and Best Practices

JAG (Jon Gay)
  • 5.0 (8)
  • Technology
  • Updated Weekly

Podcast and radio veteran Jon "JAG" Gay provides tips, tricks, and best practices for you and your podcast. By day, JAG launches and improves podcasts for financial advisors, small businesses, nonprofits, and corporate communications departments. His company rebranded from JAG in Detroit Podcasts to JAG Podcast Productions in August, 2025. After 15 years as a radio DJ and program director, and now 8 as a podcast host and producer, he brings over two decades of audio experience and perspective to the podcasting world.

  1. 4h ago

    Podcast Movement 5 Minute Preview

    I'm headed to New York this Thursday and Friday for the 2026 version of Podcast Movement. Today, I'm breaking down how the conference has evolved and changed, with separate events for the big industry players and independent creators. And I'm highlighting some of the panels I'm excited to see - from keynotes about stats and "WTF is a podcast" to breakout sessions on everything from community building to thumbnails. More: https://podcastmovement.com/ Going to be at Podcast Movement this week? Find me in their SwapCard app! Just search for Jon Gay. Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Podcast Movement 5 Minute Preview

  2. Aug 25

    How Jeff and Tim Kurkjian Built Their Podcast, Is This A Great Game or What?

    Most podcasts chase downloads. Jeff Kurkjian built something better - a show people actually return to because it feels personal, consistent, and worth their time. If you're trying to grow a podcast, monetize one, or turn short-form clips into real audience loyalty, this conversation pulls back the curtain. Jag sits down with Jeff Kurkjian, co-host of  Is This a Great Game or What  with his father, Hall of Fame baseball writer Tim Kurkjian, to unpack how the show evolved from a weekly baseball conversation into a three-episode-a-week brand with a clear identity and a loyal niche. Jeff reveals why the biggest growth driver was not Apple Podcasts or Spotify - it was repeatable, scroll-stopping video, ruthless consistency, and understanding that discovery starts with attention, not audio.You'll discover: Why Jeff and Tim decided they were not just a baseball podcast, but a father-son show that happens to talk baseball How grief, family, and baseball shaped the heart of the show after the loss of Jeff's uncle and the family's ongoing ALS advocacy The shift from one long weekly episode to a Monday-Tuesday-Thursday cadence that changed everything Why YouTube completion rate matters more than vanity download numbers How Jeff approaches clips, hooks, and short-form video so people stop scrolling and start listening What joining the Foul Territory Network changed behind the scenes, from production support to sponsorship opportunities Jeff also shares the tools and workflow he uses to produce the show, including Riverside, Ecamm, Adobe Premiere, Adobe Audition, and a Stream Deck, plus his philosophy on what makes podcast marketing actually work: say something real, make it personal, and give listeners a reason to care beyond the topic itself.This episode is essential listening if you're a podcaster, creator, broadcaster, or brand trying to build something that lasts. The message is simple: don’t build for clicks - build for the people who come back. (00:00) Intro (03:29) - The origin story of Is This a Great Game or What? (07:14) - Why the format changed from weekly to three times a week (10:16) - Building an audience before expecting revenue (11:00) - Why podcast discovery starts on social media, not apps (13:54) - What download numbers do and do not tell you (15:59) - Why the show works as a father son podcast, not just a baseball podcast (23:20) - Why personal perspective makes expert content more compelling (24:06) - “We’re only expert on one thing, ourselves” (25:54) - Joining the Foul Territory Network (27:51) - How network support helps with production and promotion (30:35) - Why sponsorships and brand partnerships take time (33:21) - Advice for podcasters without a team (36:08) - Why Riverside, Ecamm, and other tools matter (39:53) - Editing workflow in Premiere, Audition, and podcast hosting (41:43) - Why podcasting should still be fun Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    How Jeff and Tim Kurkjian Built Their Podcast, Is This A Great Game or What?

  3. Aug 11

    8 Podcast Scams to Avoid

    Podcast scams are everywhere!  In this episode, I break down the biggest red flags podcasters need to watch out for. From sketchy “tech checks” and paid guest spots to fake downloads, review schemes, overpriced equipment deals, and questionable award offers, this isa practical guide to spotting scams before they cost you time, money, or credibility. You’ll also hear why some offers are too good to be true, how scammers use vanity metrics to lure creators in, and what to check before joining a podcast network or paying for promotion. The scams we break down: The Tech Check Appearance fees - given or demanded A feature on a "big" website Fake/Bought downloads and reviews Sponsor Pitches Steeply discounted equipment Podcast "Awards" Podcast Networks Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    8 Podcast Scams to Avoid

  4. Aug 7

    Stop Reading Your Guest Bios!

    Reading your guest’s full bio in the opening seconds is killing your podcast’s first impression. Replace that boring lead-in with a sharper hook that sounds natural, builds curiosity, and gets listeners to keep going.If your episodes start with a wall of credentials, job titles, and dates, this one is for you. I explain why the first 30 seconds matter more than almost anything else on a podcast, especially when Apple and Spotify are showing your newest episode first. You’ll discover: Why reading a guest bio makes you sound scripted How to condense a long bio into a bite-sized intro that actually intrigues people Simple ways to turn bio details into better interview questions How to tease the most interesting parts of a guest’s story without giving everything away Why a stronger opening can instantly improve how new listeners perceive your show I uses a real example (mine!) iof a guest bio packed with radio stations, relocations, layoffs, and a business pivot to show exactly how quickly listeners tune out when you over-explain.  A much better approcah creates mystery, signals relevance, and keeps the conversation moving.This matters because your opening isn’t just an intro, it’s the moment listeners decide whether your show feels polished or amateur. If you’re onboarding new guests, hosting interviews, or producing a show that needs to hook strangers fast, tightening your opening is one of the easiest upgrades you can make.Perfect for podcasters, interview hosts, and producers who want stronger openings without sounding stiff. If you’ve ever wondered how to introduce a guest without boring your audience to death, this episode gives you the fix. More: https://jagpodcastproductions.com/stop-reading-your-podcast-guest-bios/ Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Stop Reading Your Guest Bios!

  5. Jul 30

    Nobody Cares About Your Podcast Downloads!

    Nobody Cares About Your Podcast Downloads! Why Your Podcast Downloads Are Overrated (And What Really Matters) If you host a podcast, you’ve probably checked your download numbers more times than you’d like to admit. It’s natural — those stats feel like proof that something is working. But the truth is, downloads can be misleading. A recent shift in the podcast industry highlights this perfectly. A new trade group, the Alliance for Measurement in Podcasting (AMP) , suggested that downloads are not the best way to measure podcast advertising performance. Instead, they recommend measuring a “play,” meaning someone listens to or watches at least 30 consecutive seconds of an episode. That raises an important question: if someone downloads your episode but never actually listens, what does that number really tell you? For many podcasters, the answer is: not much. Downloads Are a Vanity Metric Downloads can feel exciting because they’re easy to count and easy to compare. But they don’t always reflect real engagement. Someone can subscribe to your show, auto-download episodes, and never press play. In other words, a download proves availability, not attention. That’s why downloads are often a vanity metric. They can offer social proof, and they may matter for sponsors or ad-supported shows, but they don’t always tell you whether your content is actually connecting with people. The Real Goal Is Usually Bigger Than Numbers Most podcasts aren’t just trying to rack up ad revenue. For many creators, the podcast is a branding tool. It’s a way to build trust, create community, and support business or mission-driven goals. That’s especially true for: Coaches and consultants Financial advisors Nonprofits Educators Brands using podcasting to build relationships If your podcast helps someone trust your expertise, join your community, or become a client, then a smaller audience can still create massive value. A show with 500 deeply engaged listeners can do more for your goals than a show with 50,000 passive downloads. Community Beats Empty Reach Think about the kinds of podcasts that create real impact. A show for people living with a serious illness. A podcast that helps families navigate a difficult diagnosis. A series built to educate and support a niche audience.In those cases, success isn’t about chart position. It’s about connection.The biggest wins come from: Shared resources Helpful conversations Emotional support Long-term trust Meaningful relationships That’s the kind of impact downloads alone will never capture. What You Should Focus on Instead If downloads aren’t the main thing, what should you measure? Start with the goals of your podcast. If your goal is brand building: Focus on trust, authority, and audience loyalty. If your goal is sales:Look at leads, conversations, and client conversions. If your goal is community:Pay attention to replies, comments, shares, and repeat listeners. If your goal is education: Measure how well listeners understand, apply, and remember your message. The right metric depends on the outcome you actually want. Final Thought It’s fine to care about downloads. Everyone likes seeing growth. But don’t let the number on a dashboard distract you from the real purpose of your podcast. The best podcasts don’t just get heard. They get remembered. They get shared. They build something real. So instead of asking, “How many people downloaded this episode?” Ask, “What did this episode make possible?” That’s where the real value is. Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Nobody Cares About Your Podcast Downloads!

  6. Jul 23

    What Equipment Do I Need For A Podcast?

    What Equipment Do I Need For A Podcast? Starting a podcast can be an exciting venture, but one of the biggest hurdles for many aspiring podcasters is deciding what equipment to buy. In this post, we’ll break down some essential gear recommendations, from good to better to best, to help you kickstart your podcasting journey with confidence. The Essential Podcast Equipment When you’re starting a podcast, the first piece of equipment you’ll need is a microphone. It’s crucial to choose a quality microphone to ensure your audio is clear and professional. Here are my recommendations: Microphones for Podcasting: Good: Samson Q2U The Samson Q2U microphone is a versatile option for new podcasters. It typically retails between $50 and $70 and features both XLR and USB connectivity, allowing you to use it with various setups. This dynamic microphone delivers great sound as long as you’re close to it. Better: Shure MV7 For those willing to invest a bit more, the Shure MV7 is an excellent choice, priced around $250 to $300. This microphone offers multiple connection options and comes with an app that allows you to customize your audio settings, ensuring high-quality sound. Best: Shure SM7B If you’re serious about podcasting and willing to invest in top-tier equipment, the Shure SM7B is my top recommendation. Priced at about $400, this microphone has been used in professional studios by artists like Michael Jackson and Eminem. However, it requires an interface to connect to your computer. Headphones for Podcasting You might wonder why you need headphones for podcasting. They are essential for monitoring your audio and ensuring everything sounds right during recording. Here are my recommendations: Good: AirPods While not ideal, if you already have AirPods, they can work in a pinch. Just be cautious about potential Bluetooth connectivity issues. Better: Wired Headphones Wired headphones are more reliable than Bluetooth options. Look for any standard wired headphones that plug into your device, as they provide a consistent audio experience. Best: Audio-Technica ATH-M40X For the best audio monitoring experience, I recommend the Audio-Technica ATH-M40X. These headphones provide true-to-audio sound, allowing you to catch imperfections in your recordings. Video Equipment for Podcasting If your podcast includes video, you’ll need a decent webcam or camera. Here are the options: Good: Laptop Camera If your laptop has a newer camera, ensure it records in 1080p resolution. Avoid using older 720p cameras, as they won’t deliver quality visuals on larger screens. Better: Logitech Brio The Logitech Brio webcam is a solid choice, offering 1080p resolution and easy USB connectivity for around $100. Best: Digital SLR Camera Investing in a digital SLR camera, like a Sony or even using a high-quality smartphone, will give you stunning 4K visuals, but be mindful of your storage capacity. Recording Devices Choosing the right recording device is vital. Here’s what I recommend: Good: Focusrite Scarlett Solo The Focusrite Scarlett Solo is a reliable option for beginners, allowing you to connect your microphone via XLR and record directly to your computer. Better: Zoom PodTrak P4 Next The Zoom PodTrak P4 Next is an advanced solution with multiple microphone inputs and AI noise reduction features, perfect for group recordings. Best: Rodecaster Pro II For serious podcasters, the Rodecaster Pro II is a top-of-the-line option with multiple inputs and advanced features for seamless recording. Software: I am a referral partner of Riverside – an all-in-one platform that records audio and video, features a text-based editor, and a number of other enhancements from recording to publication. Here is my referral link.  Conclusion Starting your podcasting journey doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By choosing the right equipment from these recommendations—whether it’s microphones, headphones, webcams, or recording devices—you’ll set yourself up for success. Remember, the best gear for you depends on your budget and the quality you’re aiming for. If you have any questions or need further guidance, feel free to reach out to me at Jag Podcast Productions!  (313) 757-2524 or jag@jagpodcastproductions.com. For a more compreshensive list and explanation of podcast equipment, visit my full recommendation page here. Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    What Equipment Do I Need For A Podcast?

  7. Jun 30

    5 Podcasting Tips For a Heat Wave

    It is extremely hot in Michigan this week, with record highs expected here and in many parts of the country. That makes podcast recording harder, especially if your space gets warm or noisy. The show can still go on, but you have to be smart about how you record. 1) Turn off air conditioning and fans near your microphone when possible. A loud fan or air vent can create distracting background noise that makes the recording harder to listen to. That said, safety matters. If turning off the AC makes the room uncomfortable or puts you at risk of getting sick, leave it on. 2) Use AI cleanup tools when noise is unavoidable. Riverside has Magic Audio, Descript has Studio Sound, Adobe has Adobe Enhance, and Auphonic can help clean up and balance short audio clips. These tools are not perfect, but they can help when heat forces you to record with fans or air conditioning running. 3) Speak into a dynamic microphone. Condenser microphones pick up more room noise, including fans, vents, dogs barking, and cars outside. A dynamic mic helps reject more of that background noise. There are affordable options like the Samson Q2U, which plugs in by USB, and higher end options like the Shure SM7B. The important thing is to use a dynamic mic unless you are recording in a well treated room. 4) Record early or late in the day. Just like walking the dog at 6 a.m. or 9 p.m. during a heat wave, recording before the day heats up or after the sun goes down can make the session more comfortable. 5) Drink room temperature water. Avoid soda or anything carbonated because it can create gas bubbles while speaking. Avoid dairy because it can cause phlegm. Ice water may seem like the right choice in the heat, but cold can cause vocal cords to contract, which makes it harder to speak clearly. The bottom line is simple. Keep recording if you can, but do not risk your health for one episode. If the space is too hot or the conditions are not safe, the episode can wait. Read this podcast as a blog post here. Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    5 Podcasting Tips For a Heat Wave

  8. Jun 15

    What is Echo Cancellation? A 5-Minute Explanation

    What is Echo Cancellation? Best Practices for Clearer Audio in Virtual Recording In the world of virtual podcasting, how do we eliminate echoes during our recordings? Echo cancellation is a crucial technology that can enhance audio quality, yet many podcasters don't know how it works and when to use it. Here is what it is, how it operates, and best practices for achieving pristine audio in your virtual sessions. What is Echo Cancellation? This is a technology designed to remove echoes that occur during audio recordings, particularlywhen podcasters aren't wearing headphones. If you’ve ever heard your own voice bouncing back at you, you know why we need this tool. How Does Echo Cancellation Work? In a perfect scenario, everyone involved in a virtual meeting or podcast recording would wear headphones. This simple act reduces feedback and eliminates echoes. However, this isn’t always possible, especially when guests join without headphones. Echo cancellation smartly mutes your microphone when sounds from your speakers are detected. For instance, if you’re the host and your guest is speaking, the software recognizes that sound and prevents it from being picked up by your mic, thus eliminating any echo. This process is used with many platforms, including Zoom, Riverside, and Zencaster. Common Misunderstandings Many people assume that if they hear an echo, the issue lies on their side of the call. However, think counterintuitively. If you hear your voice echoed, it typically means the other participant's microphone is picking up your voice through their speakers. In such cases, they need to enable echo cancellation. If you hear the echo of the other person, you should activate it on your end as well. The Importance of Headphones Ultimately, this feature should be a backup for when headphones are not available. Ideally, everyone should wear headphones, as this eliminates the need for this tool altogether. If there is still an echo with headphones on, try turning down the volume on your headphones, then your microphone. Limitations of Echo Cancellation While this is a powerful tool, it is not foolproof. You've heard this when two participants speak simultaneously, leading to distortion or muddled audio. This is often described as an underwater sound, indicating that the feature is struggling to process overlapping audio inputs. Best Practices for Clear Audio 1. Use Headphones: Always encourage guests to wear headphones to minimize feedback. 2. Enable Echo Cancellation: If headphones cannot be used, ensure that echo cancellation is turned on for all participants. 3. Adjust Audio Levels: Monitor microphone and speaker volumes to avoid feedback. Lowering the levels can often resolve echo issues. 4. Conduct a Scratch Test: Before recording, perform a quick scratch test to confirm that your microphone is correctly set up. If the other participant can hear the scratching sound, you’re good to go. If not, check your audio settings. Conclusion Echo cancellation is a valuable tool for enhancing audio quality in virtual recordings. Understanding its function and limitations can greatly improve your podcasting or virtual meeting experience. Remember, the best solution is to use headphones, but in their absence, this tool can be your ally against feedback and distortion. If you have further questions about audio recording or need guidance on improving your podcast setup, feel free to reach out. Happy recording! More: Riverside explanation on echo: https://riverside.com/video-editor/video-editing-glossary/echo Warning about echo cancellation from Podcast Engineering School: https://podcastengineeringschool.com/be-aware-using-echo-cancellation-degrades-audio-quality/ JAG Podcast Productions Equipment Guide: https://jagpodcastproductions.com/how-to-start-a-podcast/ Additional JAG Podcast Productions Blog Posts: https://jagpodcastproductions.com/blog/ Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    What is Echo Cancellation? A 5-Minute Explanation
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About

Podcast and radio veteran Jon "JAG" Gay provides tips, tricks, and best practices for you and your podcast. By day, JAG launches and improves podcasts for financial advisors, small businesses, nonprofits, and corporate communications departments. His company rebranded from JAG in Detroit Podcasts to JAG Podcast Productions in August, 2025. After 15 years as a radio DJ and program director, and now 8 as a podcast host and producer, he brings over two decades of audio experience and perspective to the podcasting world.

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