The How To Podcast Series - Revolving Co-Hosts, Actionable Tips, And A Community for Podcasters

Dave Campbell, Ontario Canada
  • 4.9 (13)
  • HOW TO
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Welcome to The How To Podcast Series — your guide to podcasting success! Join host Dave Campbell and rotating guest co-hosts for practical tips on podcasting. Learn podcast SEO, audience growth, guest booking, audio setup, social media marketing, and hosting platform suggestions. Get real-world advice, Podcasting Tips, creative inspiration, and the confidence to build your podcast community. Podcast smarter — your journey starts here! Join our free Podcast Community on Meetup to meet fellow listeners and podcasters at all different levels - HowToPodcast.ca is your home for podcasting needs.

  1. 2H AGO

    E621 - Practical Steps for Hosting Great Podcast Guests - Guest to Great, Maximizing Your Podcast Experience

    Episode 621 - Practical Steps for Hosting Great Podcast Guests - Guest to Great, Maximizing Your Podcast Experience In this episode of the How To Podcast Series, host Dave wraps up the "Guest to Great" mini-series by sharing hard-won insights from hosting over 1,000 interviews across his nine podcasts and 2,000 total episodes. He stresses that hosts owe it to guests—especially nervous first-timers—to elevate them through thoughtful editing, rejecting the "record and post raw" mindset that leaves fluff and stumbles intact. Editing sharpens episodes, boosts engagement, and honors guests' time, creating a polished product that benefits everyone. Dave outlines practical, low-stress steps starting with pre-interview prep. Skip mass blasts; craft personalized outreach emails and scout guests by listening to them on niche podcasts—check show notes for contacts, then reference their prior appearance to pitch fresh angles. Research 30-60 minutes on their work, socials, and personal hooks like hobbies or awards. Prioritize a casual pre-call to ease nerves, qualify audio/video setup, align on audience and tone, and flag self-promoters who skip audience questions. Share recording details upfront: duration, platform, name pronunciation, video opt-out.​ For smooth recording, treat it like hosting a house party—prep your space, tech, and vibe so guests feel welcomed, not stressed by your fumbling. Lead with energy; guests mirror your tone. Start off-mic with chit-chat, recap the flow (e.g., topic shifts, promo time), and remind them of the audience. Listen actively—phone away, full focus—no chat distractions. Aim for 70/30 talk ratio (guest heavy), paraphrase for clarity ("So you're saying...?"), acknowledge insights, and always pair comments with a follow-up question to avoid rambling. Test gear in a quiet spot; end positively, noting a standout moment.​ Post-interview follow-up is Dave's self-admitted weak spot amid his packed schedule (10-12 weekly episodes, meetups, editing gigs), but he urges prioritizing it. Within 24 hours, send a personal thank-you recapping a resonant story. Share clips or rough edits if open, collaborate on social teasers/YouTube invites, and track metrics like guest-promo spikes. Review your episode: tighten to single questions, not multi-part marathons. Equip guests with promo tools (no obligation), encourage YouTube comments interaction, and build their "guest playlist." Shoutout to Pod Match for streamlined matching, one-sheets, and reviews.​ Key Takeaway: Great hosting blends genuine curiosity, clear structure, deep listening, and light follow-through—turning one-off chats into lasting relationships that grow your show and change lives. Never podcast alone; book time at HowToPodcast.ca Sign up for PodMatch with our link ⁠https://www.joinpodmatch.com/truemedia⁠ ____ Helping Podcasters Everyday!  ⁠https://howtopodcast.ca/⁠ We would love to hear from you - here is our listener survey! ⁠https://forms.gle/GbrFv9DGszV8N4PW6

    33 min

  2. 1D AGO

    E620 - Practical Tips to Shine on Any Podcast as a Guest - Guest to Great, Maximizing Your Podcast Experience

    Episode 620 - Practical Tips to Shine on Any Podcast as a Guest - Guest to Great, Maximizing Your Podcast Experience In this episode of the How to Podcast Series, Dave kicks off a focused mini series on podcast guesting and hosting by speaking directly to current and aspiring podcast guests. Drawing from more than 2,000 episodes and roughly 1,000 interviews as a host, he shares honest, experience driven insights that many hosts may never say out loud but wish every guest understood. At the heart of this conversation is a mindset shift. When you are invited onto a podcast, you are stepping into a community the host has carefully built. The audience comes for the host first. As a guest, you are there to add flavor, perspective, and value. Treat it like being invited into someone’s home. Respect the space, understand the culture, and contribute meaningfully. Preparation is the first major theme. Dave encourages guests to listen to several recent episodes before recording. Understand the tone, pacing, and style. Is the show structured or conversational? Lighthearted or serious? Then prepare three to five clear talking points, each supported by short, relevant stories and practical action steps. Keep answers concise. Leave room for follow up. A podcast is a conversation, not a monologue. Technical readiness matters just as much as content. Clear audio, a quiet environment, and a basic external microphone can dramatically elevate your presence. If you want to be taken seriously as a recurring guest, invest in sounding professional. Respect the listener’s experience. During the recording, focus on being a great listener. Pick up on cues. Answer the question that was asked. Ask the host thoughtful questions in return to create a genuine exchange. Show appreciation for the show. Reference past episodes. Demonstrate that you value the audience, not just the exposure. Dave also highlights the importance of post recording follow through. Send a thank you message. Stay connected. When the episode goes live, share it enthusiastically with your audience. Promote it in a way that reinforces the relationship and invites curiosity. Track results and look for opportunities to collaborate again. Throughout the episode, Dave references the example of Alex Sanfilippo and his platform PodMatch as a model for intentional, relationship driven podcast guesting. This is not about chasing appearances. It is about building long term connections, adding real value, and showing up prepared, professional, and present. Key takeaway: Great podcast guests are not the loudest or most polished speakers. They are prepared, respectful, audience focused collaborators who treat every appearance as the beginning of a relationship, not a one time opportunity. If you are looking for a great starter microphone - this is the mic that I use here on The How To Podcast Series! MAONO USB Microphone Kit 192KHZ/24BIT AU-A04T PC Condenser Podcast Streaming Cardioid Mic Plug & Play for Computer, YouTube, Gaming Recordinghttps://a.co/d/07yhWsvW Sign up for PodMatch with our link ⁠⁠https://www.joinpodmatch.com/truemedia⁠⁠ ____ Helping Podcasters Everyday!  ⁠⁠https://howtopodcast.ca/⁠⁠ We would love to hear from you - here is our listener survey! ⁠⁠https://forms.gle/GbrFv9DGszV8N4PW6

    39 min

  3. 2D AGO

    E619 - International Women's Day - Celebrating Women in Podcasting

    Episode 619 - International Women's Day - Celebrating Women in Podcasting In this special International Women’s Day episode of the How To Podcast Series, Dave reflects on the importance of women’s voices in podcasting and the powerful connection between the history of International Women’s Day and the independent podcasting movement today. International Women’s Day began as a call for equality and visibility. Women fought for the right to vote, fair pay, safe working conditions, and the ability to participate fully in public life. At its core, the day represents the effort to create space for voices that were often overlooked or excluded. Podcasting carries a similar spirit. Unlike traditional media, podcasting does not require permission, a broadcasting license, or a large production team. With little more than a microphone and an idea, creators can build a show, share their story, and connect with listeners anywhere in the world. That openness has made podcasting a powerful platform for independent creators, especially women who want to build communities and share their perspectives without traditional gatekeepers. Throughout the episode, Dave celebrates the many women who have contributed to the How To Podcast Series as guest co-hosts and creators. Their conversations highlight the diversity of experiences in podcasting, from voice professionals and business leaders to authors and passionate hobbyists. Each brings a unique voice, perspective, and message to the medium. While major podcast personalities often receive the most attention, this episode focuses on the independent creators working behind the scenes. Many podcasters operate as teams of one, balancing their shows alongside careers, families, and everyday responsibilities. What they may lack in budget or resources, they make up for with authenticity, passion, and genuine connection with their listeners. One of the unique advantages of smaller podcasts is the ability to build real relationships with audiences. Independent hosts often respond directly to listener messages, interact through social media, and create meaningful conversations that go beyond downloads and statistics. These connections form the foundation of strong podcast communities. The episode also encourages aspiring podcasters, particularly women, to take the leap and start their own shows. Fear and uncertainty are common barriers, but podcasting communities exist to support new creators. By working together and supporting one another, creators can overcome the challenges that come with launching and growing a podcast. Listeners are encouraged to celebrate International Women’s Day in a simple but meaningful way: by pressing play on a podcast created by a woman. Discovering and supporting new voices helps strengthen the podcasting ecosystem and ensures more stories are heard. Key Takeaway International Women’s Day reminds us that meaningful change often begins with people who decide their voices matter. In podcasting, every independent woman who starts a show continues that legacy by creating space for her story, her ideas, and her community to be heard. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=udKNhSSvxSchttps://www.care.org/pledge/https://www.internationalwomensday.com/ #IWD2026  |  #GiveToGain ____ Helping Podcasters Everyday!  https://howtopodcast.ca/We would love to hear from you - here is our listener survey! https://forms.gle/GbrFv9DGszV8N4PW6

    32 min

  4. 3D AGO

    E618 - Finding Your Voice, Creating A Companion Podcast, Dreamful, Buzzcast, PodMatch with Guest CO-HOST - Jordan Blair

    Episode 618 - Finding Your Voice, Creating A Companion Podcast, Dreamful, Buzzcast, PodMatch with Guest CO-HOST - Jordan Blair Podcast host Jordan Blair joins Dave to share how she went from super fan to co host and producer on a podcast she once fangirled over. She describes the surreal journey of being invited onto a show she adored, then being asked to join the team, and how the friendly, approachable tone of that podcast shaped her own style as a creator.Jordan tells the origin story of Dreamful Bedtime Stories, which began in 2019 when she could not find the kind of calming, long form sleep podcast her kids needed. Drawing on her theater background and years as a children’s librarian, she binged every “how to start a podcast” resource she could find, then launched a narrative sleep show that unexpectedly grew into a full time career. She modeled its sound after cinematic sleep stories, layering gentle music under her narration so listeners would not be jolted awake by a lone voice in silence. Her husband accidentally composed the perfect theme while casually playing guitar on the porch, which she captured and turned into the show’s signature sound. From there, she built rich soundscapes with Creative Commons music and free sound effects, proving that “theater of the mind” storytelling can feel as immersive as sci fi film without any sets, costumes, or visual effects.Monetization came early through listener support. Before the show even launched, Jordan set up a supporter page simply because she had heard other podcasters mention theirs. When her husband shared the trailer on social media, family and friends started pledging, which gave her confidence to ask listeners directly for support in every episode. Over time, that supporter income became her strongest revenue stream. She stresses that this only works when the show feels authentic, ad experiences are respectful, and listeners feel valued rather than interrupted by jarring mid sentence programmatic ads.For aspiring podcasters, Jordan recommends learning from independent creators who share candidly rather than just selling products, and studying narrative and journalistic shows to understand structure, tape gathering, and content editing. She encourages new storytellers to “impersonate” voices they admire at first, the way she initially shaped her own performance after Galadriel from Lord of the Rings before slowly evolving into a softer, slightly transatlantic version of her natural voice. Over time, experimentation and small tweaks help you find your own sound and character voices.Jordan also reflects on the unique intimacy of podcasting. She feels that calling it merely a “parasocial relationship” misses the depth of connection that forms when you are in someone’s ears week after week, like a recurring phone call with a friend. Even with millions of downloads, she treasures the occasional listener email enough to keep a fan mail folder she revisits on lonely days. She urges hosts to be intentional with calls to action, placing them before listeners mentally “check out,” and to use tools like dynamic content to experiment with more effective placements. Finally, she describes how Buzzsprout supports independent creators with built in features like fan messaging, show websites, dynamic content, soundbites, and robust human support, all designed to make starting and growing a podcast as simple and encouraging as possible.Dreamful Bedtime Storieshttps://pod.link/1476007966Buzzcasthttps://pod.link/1446336657Buzzsprout Affiliate Link: Join Today!https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1855306 ___ Helping Podcasters Everyday!  https://howtopodcast.ca/We would love to hear from you - here is our listener survey! https://forms.gle/GbrFv9DGszV8N4PW6

    48 min

  5. 4D AGO

    E617 - Why You - The Question Every Podcaster Must Answer

    Episode 617 - Why You - The Question Every Podcaster Must Answer In this episode of the How To Podcast Series, host Dave dives into a pivotal question for every podcaster, whether hitting record for the first time or pushing through years of episodes: "Why you?" He challenges listeners to look in the mirror and confront why they are the right voice for their topic, why listeners should choose their show amid endless options, and why they can represent their community, all while competing for finite audience time against TV, work, and life. Dave shares his "Okay, we're rolling" intro as a nod to his musician roots in the studio, then reflects on his 365-day creative push in 2026, encouraging selective listening over overwhelm. He experiments with calls to action upfront for better engagement, rethinks interview edits—like adding voiceovers and clips to Jordan Blair's episode for vivid support—and urges podcasters to avoid ruts by trying new formats. Authority in podcasting stems not from degrees or bosses, but from lived experience, unique angles, raw honesty, and scars from overcoming pitfalls, positioning you one step ahead as a guide, much like a teacher who learns alongside students.​ He offers a fill-in-the-blank "Why Me?" statement to anchor motivation: "I'm [role/experience], and I podcast so [audience] doesn't have to [struggle]." His Dad Space example: "I'm an empty-nest father of three, and I podcast so dads who feel ill-equipped have tools and community, so they don't worry if they're doing it right." Pin it by your mic, weave it into descriptions, trailers, and pitches for direction like a North Star, fueling consistency when downloads stall and preventing aimless content churn. Listeners crave your real insights over checkboxes, so skip episodes if needed and embrace the big-picture puzzle over piecemeal tactics. Dave quotes Antoine de Saint-Exupéry: If you want to build a ship, teach people to long for the sea's immensity, not just gather wood. At episode's end, he promotes his podcast coaching amid "growing pains," rebrands "Say Yes to the Dress" as "Say Yes to the Mess" to embrace the messy middle, showing real-time growth that inspires audiences to model your journey.​ Key Takeaway for Podcasters: Answer "Why you?" with a personal statement, then flip it to "Why not you?" to settle doubts and claim your voice—your unique story and stubborn passion make you the guide your community needs, turning uncertainty into unstoppable consistency. ___ Helping Podcasters Everyday!  https://howtopodcast.ca/We would love to hear from you - here is our listener survey! https://forms.gle/GbrFv9DGszV8N4PW6

    25 min

  6. 5D AGO

    E616 - Capture The Best Moments of Your Podcast with This Powerful AI note taker - Wave

    Episode 616 - Capture The Best Moments of Your Podcast with This Powerful AI note taker - Wave Here is a snapshot of the email summary that you will receive when you sign up for the free AI Summary email. Podcast Summary: The How To Podcast SeriesEpisode E599 – Freedom of Speech, Consequences and Your Bubble Host: Dave Campbell (Ontario, Canada)Date: February 16, 2026 Main Theme and Purpose In this episode, Dave Campbell explores the complex relationship between freedom of speech, personal beliefs, and the concept of "living in a bubble" within the world of podcasting. He argues that while podcasting serves as a valuable last frontier for open and respectful discourse, it also brings significant responsibility for words and their consequences. Campbell challenges podcasters to break out of their ideological bubbles, encourage diverse conversations, and approach content creation with mindfulness and care. Key Discussion Points and Insights1. The Unique Power of Podcasting to Foster Dialogue Podcasting bridges divides: “A podcast is an open door into somebody else's world.” (01:01)Dave emphasizes that podcasts allow hosts and listeners to engage with perspectives they would likely never encounter otherwise.Safe space for respectful disagreement: “We can agree to disagree… but there's always… a healthy back and forth. There's no name-calling, there's no hatred, there's no belittling of others in podcasting.” (02:13)2. The Dangers of Bubbles and Echo Chambers Self-selection into ideological bubbles: Content reflects the host's worldview: Insulation breeds conformity and limits growth: 3. The Responsibility that Comes with Influence Your words matter and persist: Freedom of speech ≠ freedom from consequences: Influence extends beyond the obvious: 4. Mindfulness and Accountability in Content Creation Pause before posting: Seek counsel and feedback: Protect your brand and your heart: 5. The Challenge to Podcasters Invite diverse voices: Podcasting as bridge-building: Serve your audience by modeling openness: 6. Finding Your Own Voice as a Podcaster Vulnerability about self-doubt: Audience affirmation can feel surreal: The journey continues for all podcasters: Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments On Bubbles and Growth: On Social Media and Responsibility: Podcasting and Influence: Call to Action: On Finding Your Voice: Community Advice: On Being a Work in Progress: https://wave.co/ https://pod.wave.co/ Oh That's A Fact! https://pod.link/1816671704 Bill Monty's Guide For Getting Older https://pod.link/1724671803 Tales From South Florida https://pod.link/1724673458 ____ Helping Podcasters Everyday!  https://howtopodcast.ca/ We would love to hear from you - here is our listener survey! https://forms.gle/GbrFv9DGszV8N4PW6

    27 min

  7. 6D AGO

    E615 - Podcasters, How To Use Spotify Clips To Promote Your Podcast Episode - Length, Size, Audio Rules for Podcasters

    Episode 615 - Podcasters, How To Use Spotify Clips To Promote Your Podcast Episode - Length, Size, Audio Rules for Podcasters Dave unveils Spotify Clips as a powerful tool for podcasters to boost episode discovery, even if you're not hosted on Spotify. Claim your show, then create short vertical videos—15 to 90 seconds long—that attach to specific episodes and appear in users' feeds, search, and recommendations. These clips drive plays to your full episodes by giving listeners a quick taste. He walks through the specs: MP4 or MOV files in 9:16 vertical format (768x1024 pixels minimum), under 1GB, with stereo audio at 128kbps—no silent or spammy content. Dave shares his workflow: Record a 55-58 second audio hook in Audacity with a subtle music bed, import to Canva, layer stock video footage matching the episode topic, add branding like your logo, website, episode number, and title. Export and upload directly to the episode page on Spotify. Best practices include fast hooks, captions for mobile viewing, and 1-3 clips per episode focusing on quotes or highlights. Spotify's algorithm favors engagement, so using their native tool logically boosts promotion. Bonus: Repurpose the same clip for TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts to multiply reach across platforms. Dave offers hands-on help via Zoom screen shares and invites listeners to check his recent episodes (e.g., 568-575) on Spotify's How To Podcast Series page. He emphasizes treating clips as mini-trailers unique to each episode, distinct from your main show trailer. Near the end, he plugs free twice-weekly podcaster meetups on Meetup.com—weekdays and themed Saturdays—to connect, share frustrations like ghosting guests or editing woes, and learn best practices. Key takeaway: Create Spotify Clips for every episode to play in Spotify's traffic and repurpose everywhere—it's low-effort work that funnels listeners to your full show. Don't skip platforms; meet your audience where they are. ____ Helping Podcasters Everyday!  https://howtopodcast.ca/We would love to hear from you - here is our listener survey! https://forms.gle/GbrFv9DGszV8N4PW6

    23 min

  8. MAR 3

    E614 - The Three People Every Podcaster Need In Their Corner - A Challenger, Cheerleader, and a Coach

    Episode 614 - The Three People Every Podcaster Need In Their Corner - A Challenger, Cheerleader, and a CoachEvery podcaster faces the moments between rounds — those stretches where the energy dips, feedback is scarce, and the next episode feels like another uphill climb. In this episode of The How To Podcast Series, Dave explores an essential but often overlooked truth: every podcaster needs three specific people in their corner to stay motivated, creative, and resilient. Just like a boxer returning to their corner or a race car pulling into the pit, we all need help to refocus and get back into the ring.Dave invites listeners to take a close look at their own creative circles and identify three roles that form the support system behind a strong and sustainable podcast. The first is the Challenger, the honest voice who isn’t afraid to point out when an episode drags or when your energy drops. This person keeps your podcast from becoming stagnant, offering trusted, all‑access feedback that pushes you to grow.Next comes the Cheerleader, someone who simply believes in you and your “why.” They celebrate your wins — whether that’s your tenth episode or hitting a small milestone — and encourage you through the hard days when motivation fades. A true cheerleader reminds you why your voice matters, even when your audience numbers are small.Rounding out the trio is the Coach, the guide who sees things from a different angle. They may be just a season ahead of you, but that perspective helps you spot blind spots, improve workflows, and avoid burnout. Coaches can take many forms — a mentor, experienced podcaster, or even a podcast that teaches and inspires — but their role remains vital: helping you grow faster and smarter through shared experience.Through vivid stories and real‑world examples, Dave connects these roles to the heart of podcasting. He emphasizes how this “C‑Trio” works together to lift your creative energy and keep your show evolving. Without these people, it’s easy to get stuck in isolation and lose momentum, but with them, your progress compounds.At the end of the episode, Dave adds a bonus reflection — a gentle reminder about authenticity. Listeners are encouraged to show up as their true selves behind the mic, to be relatable and real. Authenticity builds trust, and trust builds community. When listeners feel they truly know you, they’ll return not just for your content but for your presence.Key Takeaway:Every podcaster needs a mix of honesty, encouragement, and guidance. When you surround yourself with a challenger to push you, a cheerleader to uplift you, and a coach to guide you, your podcast won’t just grow — it will thrive with purpose, passion, and staying power. ___ Helping Podcasters Everyday!  https://howtopodcast.ca/We would love to hear from you - here is our listener survey! https://forms.gle/GbrFv9DGszV8N4PW6

    24 min
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Welcome to The How To Podcast Series — your guide to podcasting success! Join host Dave Campbell and rotating guest co-hosts for practical tips on podcasting. Learn podcast SEO, audience growth, guest booking, audio setup, social media marketing, and hosting platform suggestions. Get real-world advice, Podcasting Tips, creative inspiration, and the confidence to build your podcast community. Podcast smarter — your journey starts here! Join our free Podcast Community on Meetup to meet fellow listeners and podcasters at all different levels - HowToPodcast.ca is your home for podcasting needs.

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