Smarter Podcasting: Making Podcasts Better

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Welcome to Smarter Podcasting, by Niall Mackay, The Podcast Guy, founder of Seven Million Bikes Podcasts. Niall has years of experience in podcasting, producing, editing, and hosting podcasts in various fields. He’s now on a mission to help podcasters create, publish, and build their communities through podcasting by sharing the techniques and lessons he’s learned. The show is designed to provide valuable insights and practical tips for any podcaster, whether they are individuals or businesses. Niall shares his tried and tested techniques for creating, publishing, and building a show, along with success stories of his own and his clients’ podcasts.  Whether you’re interested in starting a podcast or improving an existing one, Smarter Podcasting is a great free resource to help you. Join Niall on this podcasting journey by subscribing or following Smarter Podcasting today.

  1. PodPast : TIPS: From Rocky Beginnings to Podcasting Success | Keynote Speech: HCMC Content Creators Meetup

    2 DAYS AGO

    PodPast : TIPS: From Rocky Beginnings to Podcasting Success | Keynote Speech: HCMC Content Creators Meetup

    Niall Mackay, The Podcast Guy, shares his journey from starting a podcast about Saigon in 2019 to running a successful, end-to-end podcast production agency. Niall discusses the evolution of his podcast, including rebranding it to focus on Vietnam as a whole, and how he navigated significant challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic.  He emphasizes the importance of setting specific goals, learning to say no, and focusing on one's primary objective for achieving success.  Niall also shares insights on the most effective social media platforms and strategies for monetizing a podcast production business. 00:00 Introduction and Beginnings in Saigon 00:00 Rebranding and Expanding Beyond Saigon 00:00 Challenges and Pivotal Decisions During COVID 00:00 Refocusing and Setting Goals 00:00 Achievements and Recognition 00:00 Q&A: Social Media and Monetization 00:00 Q&A: Income and Final Thoughts Send us a text Email me (niall@sevenmillionbikes.com) or contact me on Seven Million Bikes Podcasts Facebook or Instagram to book your free Podcast Audit!Thanks to James Mastroianni from The Wrong Side Of Hollywood for the endorsement! Need a stunning new logo for your brand? Or maybe a short animation?Whatever you need, you can find it on Fiverr.I’ve been using Fiverr for years for everything from ordering YouTube thumbnails, translation services, keyword research, writing SEO articles to Canva designs and more!

    22 min
  2. What's The SECRET to a Great Podcast? Real Listener Feedback

    5 DAYS AGO

    What's The SECRET to a Great Podcast? Real Listener Feedback

    “The reason I’m putting on a podcast is because I want to listen. I don’t want to read about the hosts - I want you to tell me about you.” — Adrie Mackay This episode is easily one of my favorites — not because of the guest (though she is my wife), but because I finally got to hear the raw, honest perspective of a real podcast listener. Adrie isn’t in the industry; she doesn’t care about gear or metrics. She just loves great stories, good sound, and shows that respect her time. Listening to her describe how she chooses podcasts, where she listens, and what makes her switch off reminded me that every podcaster needs to think more like a listener. This conversation changed the way I look at intros, ads, and even how people interact with Spotify. If you want to know how your audience really experiences your show — this is the episode to listen to. 5 Key Talking Points Listeners crave connection. They tune in to people, not just topics.Bad audio kills interest instantly — even more than weak content.The first two minutes decide everything. Get to the point fast.Titles and artwork matter more than show notes. Most people never read them.Podcast habits are personal. Where, when, and how people listen shapes what they love — and what they skip.Chapters and Timestamps 00:00 — Why People Listen03:00 — From Talk Radio to True Crime09:00 — What Makes Listeners Switch Off17:00 — Should You Repeat Your Intro Every Episode?25:00 — How Listeners Discover New Podcasts35:00 — Lessons for PodcastersSend us a text Email me (niall@sevenmillionbikes.com) or contact me on Seven Million Bikes Podcasts Facebook or Instagram to book your free Podcast Audit!Thanks to James Mastroianni from The Wrong Side Of Hollywood for the endorsement! Sign up for Descript now! Need a stunning new logo for your brand? Or maybe a short animation?Whatever you need, you can find it on Fiverr.I’ve been using Fiverr for years for everything from ordering YouTube thumbnails, translation services, keyword research, writing SEO articles to Canva designs and more!

    50 min
  3. PodPast: TIPS: My Eight DUMBEST Podcast Mistakes You Definitely Shouldn't Make

    23 OCT

    PodPast: TIPS: My Eight DUMBEST Podcast Mistakes You Definitely Shouldn't Make

    I'm opening up about my podcasting journey and the blunders I've encountered along the way. Join me as I share some valuable lessons learned from my experiences so that you can avoid these pitfalls and create a smoother path to podcasting success. Key Times to Listen: 00:01:00 - The Importance of Hitting Record 00:02:00 - The Power of Headphones 00:04:30 - Communicating with Guests for Video 00:06:00 - Embracing Dynamic Microphones 00:08:30 - Eliminating Interruptions and Disturbances Key Takeaways: Hit Record and Have a Checklist: Always press that record button and create a checklist to prevent the dreaded missed recording.Wear Headphones for Quality Monitoring: Headphones are your allies in capturing and improving audio quality by catching unwanted sounds.Select the Right Microphone and Settings: Double-check your microphone selection and settings to avoid ending up with unexpected recordings.Prep Your Guests for Video: Communicate clearly with your guests about video recordings to maintain professionalism and prevent surprises.Invest in Quality Equipment: Opt for dynamic microphones with cardioid patterns to enhance your sound and eliminate background noise.I encourage you to join the conversation! Share your own podcasting mishaps and experiences by leaving a voice message here.  Send us a text Email me (niall@sevenmillionbikes.com) or contact me on Seven Million Bikes Podcasts Facebook or Instagram to book your free Podcast Audit!Thanks to James Mastroianni from The Wrong Side Of Hollywood for the endorsement! Need a stunning new logo for your brand? Or maybe a short animation?Whatever you need, you can find it on Fiverr.I’ve been using Fiverr for years for everything from ordering YouTube thumbnails, translation services, keyword research, writing SEO articles to Canva designs and more!

    16 min
  4. PodPast : EDITING: Audacity vs Garageband: What To Use

    16 OCT

    PodPast : EDITING: Audacity vs Garageband: What To Use

    In this episode, I'm going to cover one of the most important questions you can find on Google. What editing software do I use to edit my podcast? And what is the difference between audacity and gavage band? And this episode, we're going to cover the pros and cons of each of those programs. And the one major difference that you need to know before you decide which program to choose.   Send us a text Email me (niall@sevenmillionbikes.com) or contact me on Seven Million Bikes Podcasts Facebook or Instagram to book your free Podcast Audit!Thanks to James Mastroianni from The Wrong Side Of Hollywood for the endorsement! Need a stunning new logo for your brand? Or maybe a short animation?Whatever you need, you can find it on Fiverr.I’ve been using Fiverr for years for everything from ordering YouTube thumbnails, translation services, keyword research, writing SEO articles to Canva designs and more!

    19 min
  5. PodPast : MONETIZATION - Andrew Durning’s Journey to Monetization: From Self-Doubt to Success

    9 OCT

    PodPast : MONETIZATION - Andrew Durning’s Journey to Monetization: From Self-Doubt to Success

    Tune in to our latest podcast episode featuring me, Niall Mackay, a stand-up comedian and teacher in Vietnam with Andrew Durning from That Mental Ginger Show. In this engaging conversation, Niall and host Andrew discuss the challenges of creating a successful podcast course, their experiences in content creation, the importance of finding one's niche, and much more. With insightful advice and inspiring personal stories, this episode offers both practical takeaways and behind-the-scenes glimpses of the podcasting world. Don't miss Andrew and Niall's reflections on the role of hard work vs. luck in their success and their exciting plans for the future! Topics Discussed 1. Challenges in creating a successful podcast course 2. Marketing strategies for online courses 3. The importance of finding one's niche 4. Equipment and editing software recommendations 5. Social media and monetization strategies 6. The role of consistency in podcasting 7. Growing a podcast audience And if you'd like to be featured on a future episode, be sure to follow the link below to leave me a message. So, if you're ready to take your podcast to the next level and give it the perfect name, be sure to tune in to Smarter Podcasting. Leave a message for me! Send us a text Email me (niall@sevenmillionbikes.com) or contact me on Seven Million Bikes Podcasts Facebook or Instagram to book your free Podcast Audit!Thanks to James Mastroianni from The Wrong Side Of Hollywood for the endorsement! Sign up for Descript now! Need a stunning new logo for your brand? Or maybe a short animation?Whatever you need, you can find it on Fiverr.I’ve been using Fiverr for years for everything from ordering YouTube thumbnails, translation services, keyword research, writing SEO articles to Canva designs and more!

    33 min

  6. 6 OCT

    EQUIPMENT: What To Use

    “I started with the Blue Yeti microphone, put it between me and the guest, and didn’t realize it was picking up everything—even my dog snoring on the couch.”  When I recorded this episode, I wanted to share the exact journey I’ve been on with podcast equipment—from the mistakes I made when I first started to what I use today in my studio.  Equipment is one of the biggest questions I see from new and experienced podcasters alike, and it can feel overwhelming. My goal in this episode was to show that you don’t need to spend thousands to get great quality. What you do need is the right microphone, a couple of simple accessories, and the right mindset to keep improving step by step. Key Talking Points Why condenser microphones like the Blue Yeti are not ideal for podcasts.The importance of switching to a dynamic microphone and using proper mic technique.How a mixer or audio interface like the Zoom PodTrak P4 can transform your sound.Why Descript is my favorite editing tool and how Studio Sound can elevate your podcast.Simple tips for video and soundproofing without spending a fortune.Chapters & Timestamps [00:00] Getting started – My first setup with a Blue Yeti and GarageBand.[06:00] The problem with condenser microphones – Why they pick up too much noise.[10:00] Upgrading to dynamic microphones – Shure SM57, SM7, and the power of pop filters.[15:00] Mixers & interfaces – Why the Zoom PodTrak P4 became my workhorse.[17:00] Editing software – From GarageBand to Descript and the magic of Studio Sound.[21:00] Video, lighting & soundproofing tips – How to get started without overthinking.Send us a text Email me (niall@sevenmillionbikes.com) or contact me on Seven Million Bikes Podcasts Facebook or Instagram to book your free Podcast Audit!Thanks to James Mastroianni from The Wrong Side Of Hollywood for the endorsement! Need a stunning new logo for your brand? Or maybe a short animation?Whatever you need, you can find it on Fiverr.I’ve been using Fiverr for years for everything from ordering YouTube thumbnails, translation services, keyword research, writing SEO articles to Canva designs and more!

    24 min
  7. TIPS: How To Overcome Setbacks in Podcasting Q&A

    2 OCT

    TIPS: How To Overcome Setbacks in Podcasting Q&A

    “Choose one thing that you want to focus on. Start saying no to everything else politely. Make everything you do about that one thing and I guarantee you’ll be successful.” That’s the biggest lesson I’ve learned in my journey of turning a hobby podcast into a full-time business. Today, I opened up about the setbacks, surprises, and wins I’ve had along the way—from starting with one microphone in my living room, to working with RMIT Vietnam on an international project, to facing a health scare that changed my perspective on life and business. I loved recording this because it gave me a chance to reflect on just how far things have come, and to share openly the mistakes, detours, and lessons that shaped Seven Million Bikes Podcasts into what it is today. Key Talking Points How I turned podcasting from a hobby into a business in Vietnam.The setbacks of COVID-19, losing my job, and becoming a “yes man.”The turning point when I chose to focus on podcast production only.Big wins in 2024, including international projects and awards.My MS diagnosis, how it affected me, and why it pushed me to finally open a studio.Chapters and Timestamps [04:00] Moving to Vietnam & charity work – Building schools, raising funds, and life before podcasting.[08:00] Starting Seven Million Bikes – Why I launched the show, the name story, and early struggles.[13:00] Surviving COVID and saying yes to everything – Online shows, too many jobs, and burnout.[17:00] Refocusing on one thing – Choosing podcast production, rebranding, and winning awards.[23:00] Health scare & new beginnings – MS diagnosis, opening the podcast studio, and lessons learned. Send us a text Email me (niall@sevenmillionbikes.com) or contact me on Seven Million Bikes Podcasts Facebook or Instagram to book your free Podcast Audit!Thanks to James Mastroianni from The Wrong Side Of Hollywood for the endorsement! Need a stunning new logo for your brand? Or maybe a short animation?Whatever you need, you can find it on Fiverr.I’ve been using Fiverr for years for everything from ordering YouTube thumbnails, translation services, keyword research, writing SEO articles to Canva designs and more!

    20 min
  8. TIPS: How To Overcome Setbacks in Podcasting

    29 SEPT

    TIPS: How To Overcome Setbacks in Podcasting

    Choose one thing that you want to focus on. Start saying no to everything else politely. Make everything you do about that one thing and I guarantee you’ll be successful.” That’s the biggest lesson I’ve learned in my journey of turning a hobby podcast into a full-time business. Today, I opened up about the setbacks, surprises, and wins I’ve had along the way—from starting with one microphone in my living room, to working with RMIT Vietnam on an international project, to facing a health scare that changed my perspective on life and business. I loved recording this because it gave me a chance to reflect on just how far things have come, and to share openly the mistakes, detours, and lessons that shaped Seven Million Bikes Podcasts into what it is today. Key Talking Points How I turned podcasting from a hobby into a business in Vietnam.The setbacks of COVID-19, losing my job, and becoming a “yes man.”The turning point when I chose to focus on podcast production only.Big wins in 2024, including international projects and awards.My MS diagnosis, how it affected me, and why it pushed me to finally open a studio.Chapters and Timestamps [04:00] Moving to Vietnam & charity work – Building schools, raising funds, and life before podcasting.[08:00] Starting Seven Million Bikes – Why I launched the show, the name story, and early struggles.[13:00] Surviving COVID and saying yes to everything – Online shows, too many jobs, and burnout.[17:00] Refocusing on one thing – Choosing podcast production, rebranding, and winning awards.[23:00] Health scare & new beginnings – MS diagnosis, opening the podcast studio, and lessons learned.Send us a text Email me (niall@sevenmillionbikes.com) or contact me on Seven Million Bikes Podcasts Facebook or Instagram to book your free Podcast Audit!Thanks to James Mastroianni from The Wrong Side Of Hollywood for the endorsement! Sign up for Descript now! Need a stunning new logo for your brand? Or maybe a short animation?Whatever you need, you can find it on Fiverr.I’ve been using Fiverr for years for everything from ordering YouTube thumbnails, translation services, keyword research, writing SEO articles to Canva designs and more!

    36 min
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About

Welcome to Smarter Podcasting, by Niall Mackay, The Podcast Guy, founder of Seven Million Bikes Podcasts. Niall has years of experience in podcasting, producing, editing, and hosting podcasts in various fields. He’s now on a mission to help podcasters create, publish, and build their communities through podcasting by sharing the techniques and lessons he’s learned. The show is designed to provide valuable insights and practical tips for any podcaster, whether they are individuals or businesses. Niall shares his tried and tested techniques for creating, publishing, and building a show, along with success stories of his own and his clients’ podcasts.  Whether you’re interested in starting a podcast or improving an existing one, Smarter Podcasting is a great free resource to help you. Join Niall on this podcasting journey by subscribing or following Smarter Podcasting today.

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