Clipped: Your Podcast Toolkit For Podcast Resources, Growth, and Monetization Eric Montgomery

This episode marks a significant milestone for the podcast — Episode 100! As I near my two-year anniversary, I want to thank you all for tuning in and joining me on this auditory journey. 
Today, I’m getting a little whacky and getting into the world of immersive audio. I’m stoked to share this episode with you and it’s a little different from the traditional catalog. I’m exploring the landscape of ambisonic and 3D audio experiences.
Sponsor Shoutout: Riverside.fm Riverside.fm makes it easy to record high-fidelity audio and 4K video right from your browser, helping podcasters produce professional-quality content effortlessly. Use promo code CLIPPED for 20% off at checkout.
What is Immersive Audio? Immersive audio, or ambisonic audio, is akin to surround sound in a theater but designed for headphone listeners. 
It allows you to experience sound from various directions, enhancing the auditory landscape of podcasts. This technology can transport listeners directly into the environment of the narrative, making it feel as if you're right there in the scene — be it a bustling city diner or a serene park.
Featured Gear: The Zoom H3 VR Ambisonic Microphone Today, I'm using the Zoom H3 VR Ambisonic microphone, which captures sound from every direction, enriching the listener's experience with a vivid 3D sound sphere. 
This technology is perfect for podcasters looking to elevate their audio storytelling with realistic soundscapes.
Why Use Immersive Audio? It adds a layer of depth to your podcast, allowing listeners to feel more connected to the content. 
Whether you're producing a narrative podcast or a more traditional interview-based show, immersive audio can bring your stories to life in a uniquely compelling way.
Challenges of Immersive Audio Venturing into immersive audio comes with its challenges, from selecting the right equipment to mastering the mix in post-production. 
I’ll discuss the hurdles podcasters might face, such as the learning curve associated with new technologies and the investment in high-quality gear needed to achieve the best results.
Call to Action Have you experimented with immersive audio in your podcasting? I'd love to hear about your experiences and challenges. 
Connect with me on Instagram at Podcast Haven, or join our mailing list at PodcastHaven.com to get more insights and a free copy of my ebook, "The Four Pillars of Podcasting.

I'm your host, Eric, and today I’m diving back into the world of podcast SEO. If you're looking to increase your show's visibility across Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google, you're in the right place. 
In this episode, I'm adding two fresh SEO tips to the original five discussed in Episode 54. 
Sponsor Alert: A big shoutout to our sponsor, Riverside.fm. Remember to use promo code CLIPPED for 20% off their amazing podcast recording and production services.
Podcast SEO Is Key For Organic Discoverability I’m exploring how SEO strategies can significantly enhance your podcast's discoverability. I’m covering everything from the basics of SEO to more nuanced tactics that can help you dominate search results. 
These tips are designed to help you craft a more visible and engaging podcast.
SEO Tips Breakdown: Transform Your Podcast Into Blog Posts Turn episode transcriptions into detailed blog posts. This not only makes your content accessible to those who prefer reading but also enhances your visibility on search engines.
Google prioritizes text-based content, so integrating blog posts on your podcast's site can lead to higher search result placements.
Master the Art of Episode Titling Craft episode titles that are engaging and keyword-rich. This simple change can drastically improve your podcast's discoverability both on search engines and podcast platforms.
Effective titling attracts potential listeners at first glance, increasing the likelihood they'll tune in.
Leverage Keyword Research Tools Use tools like Google Trends and Ahrefs to identify trending keywords related to your podcast topics. Incorporating these keywords can help your episodes rank better in search queries.
Understanding what your audience is searching for allows you to align your content more closely with listener interests.
Optimize Show Notes Write comprehensive show notes that exceed 300 words to improve SEO. These notes help listeners recall important points and find your podcast through related search terms.
Show notes act as a condensed version of your episode, providing a quick reference while boosting your site’s SEO.
Expand Into YouTube Post your podcast episodes on YouTube, even if only audio with a static image. YouTube is the second largest search engine and can significantly increase your reach.
Utilize the video description to include show notes and relevant links, enhancing discoverability across platforms.
Boost Visibility Through Guest Networking Appear as a guest on other podcasts to gain backlinks to your site, which are vital for SEO. These collaborations show search engines that your content is valued across the podcast community.
Guest appearances can introduce you to new audiences and strengthen your credibility within the industry.
Encourage User Engagement Motivate listeners to leave reviews and interact with your content on social media. High engagement levels can boost your rankings in podcast discovery algorithms and social media feeds.
Building a community around your podcast not only fosters loyalty but also improves your content’s visibility online.
Podcast SEO Final Thoughts Embracing these SEO strategies requires patience and persistence, but the payoff is well worth the effort. By enhancing your podcast’s SEO, you can attract more listeners and grow your audience organically. 
For more tips and resources, visit our blog. Stay tuned for more insights, and until next time, keep creating and keep connecting!

In this episode, Eric is exploring the innovative use of AI voices through the platform Speechify to enhance your podcasts, YouTube videos, and more.
What You’ll Learn In This Episode
Understanding Speechify: Discover what Speechify is all about and why it's becoming a go-to for AI voice integration in content creation.
Practical Applications: How AI voices can be used to diversify and scale your content production.
Pros and Cons: Weighing the benefits against the potential drawbacks of using AI voices.
Content Creation Tips: Integrating AI voices into your workflow to enhance content variety without compromising quality.
Sponsor Shoutout: 
Riverside -  Use promo code CLIPPED for 20% off any individual plan.
Deep Dive:
Why Use AI Voices?: From adding variety to overcoming the limitations of your natural voice, AI voices offer a range of creative possibilities.
Character Voices by Speechify: Examples include "Oliver" for a sophisticated tone, "Jenny" for a seductive flair, and a laid-back Southern California accent to match your content’s vibe.
Adapting AI Voices: Tips on customizing speed, intensity, and pronunciation to fit your content needs.
Potential Downsides:
Authenticity Challenges: AI voices may lack the emotional depth and nuanced expressions of human narration.
Audience Perception: Considerations on how frequent use of AI could affect listener engagement and content authenticity.
Closing Thoughts:
In wrapping up, not all content requires deep emotional ties; straightforward, informational pieces might benefit just as well from AI narration. Experiment with AI, but keep it as one part of your broader content strategy. Balance is key to integrating these tools effectively as we move forward.
Call to Action: 
Explore the possibilities with Speechify and integrate AI voices into your content strategy. Visit speechify.com to get started. Share your experiences or feedback on AI in content by sliding into my DMs on Instagram @thepodcasthaven.

In this episode of CLIPPED, we explore a simple yet effective productivity hack for podcast editors—listening to classical music while editing. Discover how the soothing yet complex structures of classical compositions can help you focus better and edit your podcasts more efficiently.
What You'll Learn:
The benefits of listening to classical music during creative tasks. Insights into the "Mozart Effect" and how classical music can enhance cognitive function. Practical tips for integrating classical music into your editing workflow to improve concentration and efficiency. Key Points:
The Power of Classical Music:
Classical music's complex patterns can stimulate your brain's processing centers, enhancing your ability to focus without the distractions typical of lyrical music. Implementing the Hack:
Suggestions for incorporating classical music into your editing sessions, including choosing the right compositions and maintaining an optimal volume. Pro Tips:
Aim for instrumental compositions that are uplifting yet not overpowering.  
Listener Challenge: Try editing your next podcast episode while listening to classical music. Share your experiences with us—did it change your editing speed or focus?
Engage with Us: We want to hear from you! Did this productivity hack enhance your editing process? Reach out via our social media channels or email us your stories.
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In this episode of CLIPPED, your go-to podcast for all things podcasting, host Eric dives deep into the often overlooked but crucial aspect of podcasting—episode completion rates. 
From understanding what episode completion rates are, to exploring strategies for enhancing your show's engagement, Eric shares his insights, experiences, and some hard numbers from his own podcast journey. 
If you're looking to keep your listeners hooked till the very end, this episode packs everything you need to know and then some. 
Get ready for a mix of industry insights, actionable tips, and a dose of Eric's personal podcasting anecdotes, all designed to help you start, grow, and monetize your podcast effectively.
Sponsor Alert:
This podcast is sponsored by Riverside, the best place to record remote podcasts online. Enter promo code CLIPPED at checkout to get 20% off any individual plan.
What You'll Learn:
What Is an Episode Completion Rate?
The significance of tracking how long listeners actually listen to your episodes.
Identifying a Good Episode Completion Rate
Benchmarks for assessing your podcast's performance and setting realistic goals.
Strategies to Improve Your Episode Completion Rate
Practical tips and insights on keeping your audience listening.
Eric's Own Completion Rate Insights
A candid look at the numbers behind CLIPPED and what they reveal about audience engagement.
Main Talking Points:
The Importance of Episode Completion Rates: A vital metric that reflects listener engagement and content value.
Finding Your Rate: Utilizing platforms like Apple Podcasts Connect and Chartable for data.
Setting the Benchmark: Understanding what good (and bad) completion rates look like and setting goals accordingly.
How to Boost Your Episode Completion Rate:
Hook Your Listeners Early: Start with a compelling preview of what's to come to keep listeners intrigued.
Break the Fourth Wall: Engage directly with your audience to create a more personal connection.
Leverage Data from Previous Episodes: Analyze past performance to understand what works and replicate success.
Consider Short Episode Hacks: Shorter episodes can lead to higher completion rates, but balance is key.
Optimize Audio Quality: Ensure your audio is crisp and clear to avoid listener drop-off.
Incorporate Storytelling and Personal Anecdotes: Use relevant stories to add depth and interest to your episodes.
Whether you're new to podcasting or looking to refine your craft, this episode of CLIPPED offers valuable insights into maximizing listener engagement through understanding and improving your episode completion rates. 
Keep Listening, Keep Engaging, Keep Creating

In this jam-packed episode of CLIPPED, Eric dives into the often misunderstood world of audio levels, focusing on the crucial distinction between gain and volume. 
Sponsors:
This episode is sponsored by Riverside. Go to Riverside.fm and enter promo code CLIPPED for 20% off.
Here's What You'll Learn: The difference between gain and volume, and why each matters for your podcast.
How to dial in the perfect level of gain for crystal-clear, robust audio
Strategies for achieving an optimal signal-to-noise ratio, ensuring your voice cuts through without unwanted background noise.
Episode Highlights: Gain controls the sensitivity and the amplification of your microphone. Volume relates to the playback loudness in your headphones or speakers.
Finding the sweet spot for your gain is key to avoiding both distortion and too much ambient noise, aiming for a signal that's full-bodied but not overloaded.
Signal-to-Noise Ratio Explained: A crucial concept in achieving professional-quality audio, ensuring your voice stands out clearly against any background noise.
Eric shares insights on using visual metering to set your levels correctly, aiming for a peak between -6 to -12 decibels for optimal clarity.
A reminder of the age-old audio maxim, "shit in, shit out,". It’s important to get a good sound when recording to ease the editing and mixing process.
Dialing In The Perfect Recording Level Achieving the perfect audio level requires a bit of experimentation to find what works best for your unique setup and voice. 
Remember, nailing your sound on the way in not only makes for a more pleasant listening experience but also makes your life easier during the editing and mixing phases. 
As we always say, start strong to end strong, and you'll save yourself a heap of time in post-production.