The How To Podcast Series - Podcast Co-Hosts, Practical Podcasting Tips, and Podcast Community

Dave Campbell - Podcast Coach, Cheerleader and Podcast Community Advocate

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 podcasting 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!

  1. 8h ago

    E764 - Should Every Podcast Episode Have Its Own Website Page - Podcast Show Notes vs Episode Pages

    Episode 764 - Should Every Podcast Episode Have Its Own Website Page - Podcast Show Notes vs Episode Pages Podcast show notes vs episode pages is the core decision in this episode. The conversation focuses on how podcasters should treat their written content, whether as simple notes that travel with the episode or as a full web page built for search, discovery, and depth. Show Notes and Episode Pages The episode opens by defining podcast show notes as the written companion that appears with an episode inside listening apps and on platforms like YouTube. These notes travel with the audio and video, giving listeners a quick way to read links, resources, and key context while they listen. The host contrasts that with a dedicated episode page on a website, which can hold a much larger body of content and serve a different purpose altogether. A major theme is choice. Some podcasters want their notes focused on the listener inside the app. Others want to build a full website page for every episode and lean into SEO, search visibility, and long-term discoverability. The episode makes it clear that both approaches can work, but they serve different goals. Why the Format Matters The discussion explains that many listeners never read every word of show notes, especially when they are listening on the go. For that reason, the host shares a personal preference for concise notes that support the episode without becoming a second article. At the same time, he acknowledges that a website page gives podcasters more control over structure, depth, and search performance. The episode also points out that a podcast app and a search engine do not value content in the same way. In-app notes support the listening experience, while website pages support indexing, ranking, and evergreen traffic. That distinction shapes the entire strategy. In-App Notes The episode describes the strengths of keeping show notes inside the podcast episode itself. This approach gives listeners a smoother experience, keeps them in the app, and makes it easy for them to follow links or references without leaving the player. It also keeps the workload lighter, since the podcaster only has to write one version of the notes. There are tradeoffs. Podcast apps usually strip away formatting, images, and deeper structure. Updates may not appear everywhere at the same time, and the SEO value is limited compared to a properly built web page. The host presents this as a practical tool, not a complete publishing strategy. Website Episode Pages A dedicated episode page gives podcasters far more room to work. The episode explains how these pages can include transcripts, embedded players, images, FAQs, related links, internal links, and longer written summaries. That turns each episode into a searchable article that can keep attracting attention long after release day. The strongest advantage is discoverability. Google and other search systems understand websites better than podcast feeds alone. The episode also notes that AI search tools are increasingly drawn to structured pages with headings and clear organization, which makes episode pages even more valuable for long term visibility. Matching Strategy To Level The host breaks the approach into three levels. Beginners should keep it simple and prioritize publishing consistently. Experienced podcasters should build dedicated pages for their strongest evergreen episodes. Advanced podcasters should treat major episodes like content hubs with optimized pages, transcript support, FAQs, and strong internal linking. That framework keeps the strategy realistic. It also reminds podcasters that they do not need to do everything at once. The best choice depends on time, budget, and how much control you want over your content. ____ Helping Podcasters Everyday!  ⁠https://howtopodcast.ca/⁠⁠ ⁠ We would love to hear from you - here is our listener survey! ⁠https://forms.gle/GbrFv9DGszV8N4PW6

  2. 1d ago

    E763 - Podcasts Require Work Ethic, Sweat Equity and Effort - It Takes Effort to Make a Podcast People Care About

    Episode 763 - Podcasts Require Work Ethic, Sweat Equity and Effort - It Takes Effort to Make a Podcast People Care About Building something meaningful is rarely easy, and podcasting is no exception. In this episode, the conversation explores why lasting success is built on work ethic, personal responsibility, and a willingness to embrace discomfort instead of constantly searching for shortcuts. Rather than chasing passion first, listeners are encouraged to recognize opportunities, develop valuable skills, and allow passion to grow through consistent effort. The discussion challenges common advice that tells people to simply "follow your passion," suggesting that satisfaction often comes from becoming skilled at meaningful work and committing to it over time. The episode also examines the importance of delayed gratification, resilience, and learning to become comfortable with being uncomfortable. Growth rarely happens inside a comfort zone, and whether it is developing a career, raising a family, or building a podcast, real progress requires showing up consistently, doing the difficult work, and improving through experience. The conversation also reflects on the value of questioning conventional wisdom, setting meaningful personal goals, taking ownership of your decisions, and avoiding the temptation to rely on cookie cutter advice. Success looks different for everyone, but the common thread is putting in the effort required to earn it. Whether discussing careers, parenting, education, or creative pursuits, the central message remains the same: meaningful work is built through persistence, curiosity, and a commitment to continual improvement. Those who embrace challenge instead of avoiding it often discover opportunities they never expected. The Podcaster’s S.W.E.A.T. Pledge I believe I have already been given something powerful—a voice, a platform, and the opportunity to create. I do not take that lightly. I am grateful I get to show up and speak into the world. I believe I am entitled to the opportunity to create, publish, and grow. Nothing more. Audience, success, and recognition are earned through consistent effort—not expected. I believe there is no such thing as a “small podcast.” Every episode is a chance to improve, connect, and serve. It is up to me to make it meaningful. I do not wait to “find my passion.” I bring passion into every recording, every edit, every conversation. Passion is something I apply, not something I chase. I respect my resources—my time, my money, and my energy. I build within my means and focus on sustainable growth over shortcuts. I take responsibility for the quality of my podcast. Good audio, thoughtful content, and intentional production are not optional—they are part of the work. I show up consistently. I record when I said I would. I publish when I said I would. I do the work, especially when it feels inconvenient. I do not complain about downloads, algorithms, or slow growth. If something isn’t working, I adjust, learn, and keep moving forward. I take ownership of my education as a podcaster. I study the craft, learn from others, test new ideas, and never stop improving. I am a product of my effort and my consistency. I do not blame platforms, trends, or timing. I look at what I can control—and I act on it. I understand that podcasting is not always fair. Some shows grow faster. Some get lucky breaks. I stay focused on my lane and respect the process. I choose discipline over excuses. While others hesitate, delay, or quit—I press record, I publish, and I keep building. This is real work. My podcast matters. And I will treat it like it does. https://mikeroweworks.org/ ___ Helping Podcasters Everyday!  https://howtopodcast.ca/We would love to hear from you - here is our listener survey! https://forms.gle/GbrFv9DGszV8N4PW6

  3. 2d ago

    E762 - What is Your Start Here Podcast Episode for New Listeners - Should I Have A Podcast Trailer

    Episode 762 - What is Your Start Here Podcast Episode for New Listeners - Should I Have A Podcast TrailerGive New Podcast Listeners a Clear Starting Point Every podcast reaches a point where the episode library becomes a strength and a challenge. New podcast listeners discover the show, see hundreds of episodes, and wonder where to begin. A Start Here podcast episode solves that problem by giving people a clear introduction to the show, the host, and the value they can expect. A podcast trailer offers a quick overview, but a dedicated Start Here episode creates a stronger connection. It welcomes listeners, explains the purpose behind the podcast, and lets them experience the style and personality of the host before exploring the rest of the catalog. Make the First Experience Count A well designed Start Here episode answers the questions every new listener has. Who is this show for? What will I learn? Why should I keep listening? It also gives podcast hosts the chance to recommend favorite episodes or highlight conversations that represent the show at its best. Instead of leaving visitors to scroll through years of content, the host guides them toward the strongest entry point. As the podcast evolves, the Start Here episode can evolve too. Updating the content or adjusting the publication date keeps it visible near the top of the feed and makes it easier for new listeners to discover. Pair Your Start Here Episode With a Podcast Trailer A trailer and a Start Here episode work well together. The trailer sparks curiosity. The full episode builds trust. The conversation also explores another option for podcasters with YouTube channels. A dedicated playlist can serve as a guided path for beginners, helping them move through important episodes in a logical order. This approach creates another shareable resource that supports new listeners wherever they discover the show. Build Community From the First Listen The discussion highlights the importance of welcoming people into a podcast community instead of leaving them to navigate alone. A thoughtful introduction helps listeners feel connected and encourages them to stay, subscribe, and share the show with others. The episode also reminds podcasters that every loyal listener started with a single play. Creating an intentional first experience can shape the relationship that follows. The conversation closes with practical advice for interview hosts. Research guests before recording, prepare simple yes or no questions to regain control if an interview starts drifting, and remember that every episode should serve the audience first. Key Takeaway A Start Here podcast episode gives new listeners confidence, direction, and a reason to stay. When combined with a podcast trailer and a welcoming community, it becomes one of the most valuable assets in any podcast catalog. Target keywords: Start Here podcast episode, podcast trailer, new podcast listeners YouTube Start Here Example as a Playlist: Start Here! The Podcaster’s Path: 24 Steps from Beginner to Pro https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZNEMLAKtLYctRcJQXODsqXqG4imH4wLa _____ Helping Podcasters Everyday!  ⁠https://howtopodcast.ca/⁠ We would love to hear from you - here is our listener survey! ⁠https://forms.gle/GbrFv9DGszV8N4PW6

  4. 3d ago

    E761 - How to Sound More Human in an A.I. World - Volume - Turning Up Emotion, Not Just Loudness

    Episode 761 - How to Sound More Human in an A.I. World - Volume - Turning Up Emotion, Not Just Loudness In this episode of the How to Podcast Series, Dave continues the mini series on sounding more human in an AI driven world by exploring one of the most overlooked tools every podcaster already has, their voice. Rather than simply speaking louder or softer, he explains how intentional changes in volume create emotional connection, keep listeners engaged, and help a podcast stand apart from increasingly common AI generated voices. Dave shares how many podcasters fall into one of two extremes, speaking too quietly or performing with an exaggerated announcer style. Neither approach serves an audience as well as learning to use vocal dynamics with purpose. By varying volume throughout an episode, podcasters can create moments that feel personal, exciting, reflective, or urgent without sounding forced. The episode highlights how listeners naturally respond to contrast. Quiet moments encourage people to lean in, while louder moments can emphasize celebration, surprise, or an important point when used sparingly. Dave explains that a consistently flat delivery, even when technically clear, can cause listeners to lose focus because the voice no longer guides their attention through the story. Practical advice includes monitoring recording levels, improving microphone technique, avoiding shouting directly into the microphone, and practicing the same passage at different volume levels to better understand how vocal delivery changes meaning. He encourages podcasters to intentionally include softer and stronger moments in every episode to shape the listener experience instead of delivering every sentence with the same energy. The episode also features heartfelt comments from members of the How to Podcast Meetup community, sharing how the free group has provided encouragement, genuine connection, and a supportive place for podcasters to grow together. In the closing discussion, Dave answers a listener question about losing motivation after producing fifty episodes. He reminds creators that every podcast has options. A show can evolve with new formats, guests, refreshed topics, or even come to a meaningful conclusion before beginning something new. Every episode recorded builds experience that carries into whatever comes next. Key Takeaway Your voice is more than a way to deliver information. By using thoughtful changes in volume and emotion, you create a more engaging, memorable, and deeply human listening experience that no AI voice can easily replicate. _____ Helping Podcasters Everyday!  ⁠https://howtopodcast.ca/⁠ We would love to hear from you - here is our listener survey! ⁠https://forms.gle/GbrFv9DGszV8N4PW6

  5. 4d ago

    E760 - How to Sound More Human in an A.I. World - Pause - Letting Silence Do Some of the Talking

    Episode 760 - How to Sound More Human in an A.I. World - Pause - Letting Silence Do Some of the Talking How to sound more human in an AI world starts with control over pacing. Podcast pauses and silence in podcasting shape how your voice lands, how ideas breathe, and how listeners stay with you. Automated editing often strips gaps and forces a rushed delivery. That speed creates anxiety on playback and erodes clarity. Human delivery needs space.The power of the gap Silence acts as spoken punctuation. A brief pause can signal a comma. A longer beat can mark a full stop. These gaps give listeners time to process while they multitask. They also signal intention. You guide attention without adding more words. Why creators fear silence Many hosts try to think and perform at once. They fill space with filler sounds to avoid discomfort. That habit produces a blur of words and weakens meaning. When you allow a pause, your brain resets and your audience catches up. Types of pauses that work Micro pauses tighten phrasing and improve clarity. A beat pause follows an important line and lets it land. A full pause marks a transition to a new idea. Together, they organize your episode like paragraphs in writing and keep the flow easy to follow. Better listening and stronger emotion A well placed pause improves comprehension, especially in educational or story driven shows. It also deepens emotion. In interviews, a short silence after a vulnerable moment often invites a guest to go further. In storytelling, pauses build tension and curiosity. Use pauses with intent Comedy relies on timing. Stories rely on pacing. Calls to action benefit from a short breath before the ask so it feels deliberate. Silence can carry weight that words cannot. Practical habits Record with pauses in mind, then edit with restraint. Replace filler words with silence. Add a one second pause after key points and notice the difference. Solo hosts can use pauses as a check in that keeps listeners aligned. Community and craft A supportive podcast community can reinforce these habits and help you refine your delivery over time. Consistent feedback and shared practice sharpen pacing and confidence. Key takeaway Treat silence as part of your message. Use pauses to guide attention, improve clarity, and sound unmistakably human. _____ Helping Podcasters Everyday!  ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://howtopodcast.ca/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ We would love to hear from you - here is our listener survey! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://forms.gle/GbrFv9DGszV8N4PW6

  6. 5d ago

    E759 - How to Sound More Human in an A.I. World - Melody - Making Your Voice Less Monotone and More Musical

    Episode 759 - How to Sound More Human in an A.I. World - Melody - Making Your Voice Less Monotone and More Musical In this episode of the How to Podcast Series, Dave continues his mini series on becoming more human in an increasingly AI driven world by focusing on one of the most overlooked skills in podcasting: vocal melody. While AI voices continue to improve, Dave explains that the qualities that make listeners connect with a real person cannot be replicated through technology alone. A podcast is more than someone reading information. It is a conversation that creates a personal connection. Dave explores how the natural rise and fall of your voice keeps listeners engaged, while a monotone delivery can make even valuable content difficult to follow. He explains that melody is not about sounding theatrical or exaggerated. Instead, it is about using intentional pitch changes, emphasis, and vocal movement to communicate emotion, authority, curiosity, and confidence. Throughout the episode, listeners learn how vocal variety replaces many of the visual cues that are missing in audio, helping audiences understand not only what is being said but also how it is meant to be felt. Dave shares practical exercises that help podcasters become more aware of their delivery, including emphasizing key words, practicing with exaggerated expression before scaling back, and consciously lowering pitch at the end of completed thoughts to create a sense of confidence and clarity. The conversation also encourages creators to think of their episodes in smaller scenes rather than one continuous presentation. By allowing the emotional tone of each section to shift naturally, podcasters can create a more engaging listening experience that keeps audiences connected from beginning to end. Along the way, Dave shares heartfelt testimonials from members of the How to Podcast community, reinforcing the value of building genuine relationships with fellow creators and reminding listeners that podcasting should never be a journey taken alone. Key Takeaway Your voice is one of the most powerful tools you have as a podcaster. By adding natural melody, varying your pitch with intention, and speaking with genuine emotion instead of falling into a monotone delivery, you create a listening experience that feels unmistakably human. In a world filled with AI generated voices, your authentic voice remains your greatest advantage. _____ Helping Podcasters Everyday!  ⁠⁠https://howtopodcast.ca/⁠⁠ We would love to hear from you - here is our listener survey! ⁠⁠https://forms.gle/GbrFv9DGszV8N4PW6

  7. 6d ago

    E758 - How to Sound More Human in an A.I. World - Rate of Speech - Finding Your Pace in Their Ears

    Episode 758 - How to Sound More Human in an A.I. World - Rate of Speech - Finding Your Pace in Their Ears In this first episode of a four part series on sounding more human in an AI driven world, Dave explores one of the most overlooked podcasting skills: your rate of speech. While creators often focus on microphones, editing, and content, the way a message is delivered can have an even greater impact on how listeners connect with a podcast. Dave explains that speaking too quickly can overwhelm listeners, create anxiety, and make it difficult for them to absorb important ideas. On the other hand, speaking too slowly can drain energy from an episode and leave listeners feeling disconnected. The goal is not to be fast or slow, but to find a natural pace that feels conversational and keeps people engaged from beginning to end. The episode highlights how pacing is a powerful storytelling tool. Faster delivery can build excitement, momentum, and anticipation during energetic moments, while slowing down helps emphasize key insights, emotional stories, important instructions, and calls to action. By varying your pace throughout an episode, you create contrast that captures attention and makes your message more memorable. Dave also discusses why new podcasters often rush through their content. Nerves, inexperience, and the fear of silence can lead creators to fill every second with words. Instead, he encourages podcasters to embrace intentional pauses, allowing listeners time to process important ideas. Silence, when used purposefully, becomes part of the conversation rather than something to avoid. Practical exercises are shared to help improve pacing, including recording the same paragraph at different speeds, marking scripts with reminders to speed up or slow down, and asking trusted listeners for honest feedback. Solo podcasters are reminded that imagining a conversation with one listener, rather than performing for a crowd, naturally creates a more authentic and relaxed delivery. Dave closes by encouraging podcasters to continually develop this skill through practice, self review, and intentionality. In a world where AI voices are becoming more common, a genuine human delivery, complete with natural pacing and emotional connection, is one of the strongest ways to stand out. Key Takeaway: Your pace is part of your message. By intentionally varying your speed, using thoughtful pauses, and speaking as if you're talking to one listener, you create a more human connection that keeps your audience engaged and helps your words have lasting impact. 92 Beats Per Minute, Pacing Your Words When You Speak - Are Your Podcast Listeners Keeping Up https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=adsvpdLSPng ____ Helping Podcasters Everyday!  ⁠https://howtopodcast.ca/⁠ We would love to hear from you - here is our listener survey! ⁠https://forms.gle/GbrFv9DGszV8N4PW6

  8. Jul 24

    E757 - Shared Mic Sessions - Podcast Business Insider with John Katsavos

    Episode 757 - Shared Mic Sessions - Podcast Business Insider with John KatsavosHow to Start, Grow & Avoid Burnout as a Podcaster — David Campbell on Community, Consistency & Connection If you’ve ever wondered why some podcasters grow fast… while others burn out and disappear — this episode is your turning point.Today I sit down with David Campbell, founder of True Media Solutions, host of nine podcasts, musician, storyteller, and community-builder. Dave has interviewed creators from around the world and built thriving podcast communities without burning out — even while working a full-time job. We break down the real skills every podcaster needs in 2025: 🔥 how to start without overthinking 🔥 how to grow without comparing yourself to big names 🔥 how to avoid burnout and stay consistent 🔥 how storytelling turns listeners into superfans 🔥 how community fuels long-term successIf you’re building a podcast, a brand, or a movement this episode will save you years of frustration. https://redcircle.com/shows/58667218-82fc-4554-a494-14b290538c47/ep/b7fad8a5-fa85-4ed7-897f-ddc2e2cdb684 Podcast Business Insider Podcasters Business Insider (PBI) is the go-to business podcast for creators who treat their show like a startup. Through weekly interviews with industry leaders and daily breakdowns of podcasting news, trends, and strategies, PBI delivers actionable insights for podcasters who want to grow their audience, monetize their voice, and build a brand that lasts. https://pod.link/1840526340 ___⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Helping Podcasters Everyday!  ⁠⁠⁠https://howtopodcast.ca/⁠⁠⁠ We would love to hear from you - here is our listener survey! ⁠⁠⁠https://forms.gle/GbrFv9DGszV8N4PW6

    E757 - Shared Mic Sessions - Podcast Business Insider with John Katsavos
4.9
out of 5
16 Ratings

About

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 podcasting 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!