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

Dave Campbell - Podcast Coach, Cheerleader and Podcast Community Advocate
  • 4.9 (16)
  • 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 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. 21h 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

  2. 1d 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

  3. 2d ago

    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. 3d ago

    E756 - How To Make Your Podcast Show Notes Work For You - Don't Skip This For Your Next Podcast Episode Release

    Episode 756 - How To Make Your Podcast Show Notes Work For You - Don't Skip This For Your Next Podcast Episode Release Your podcast show notes (what you are reading, right now!) are far more than a place to add a few links after publishing an episode. In this episode, Dave explains why they should be treated as an essential part of every podcast release and how they can become a valuable resource for both new and existing listeners. The conversation explores what podcast show notes are, why they matter, and how they help answer an important question before someone presses play: "Why should I listen to this episode?" Rather than treating show notes as an afterthought, Dave encourages podcasters to create a consistent structure that includes a concise episode summary, helpful resources, meaningful calls to action, and links that support the conversation. Listeners will also learn the difference between show notes and transcripts. While transcripts capture every spoken word, effective show notes act as an elevator pitch that highlights the value of the episode without overwhelming readers. The episode discusses keeping descriptions clear, conversational, and focused while adapting them to the different character limits available across podcast platforms. Dave shares practical ways to save time by repurposing episode outlines, scripts, and AI assisted transcripts into polished show notes that accurately reflect the conversation. He also explains how timestamps, chapter markers, and organized links can improve the listener experience while making it easier for audiences to find the information they need. Beyond writing show notes, the episode includes tips for capturing links during interviews, organizing resources before publishing, and using tools to streamline transcription and content creation. Dave also discusses how show notes can support calls to action, promote community resources, and help podcasters connect listeners with guests, products, websites, and bonus content without interrupting the listening experience. The episode concludes with bonus coaching for interview podcasters, offering advice on asking more engaging questions, listening with intention, and moving beyond scripted interviews to create conversations that feel natural, memorable, and enjoyable for both guests and listeners. Key Takeaway Podcast show notes deserve the same attention as the episode itself. When they are thoughtfully written, well organized, and focused on serving the listener, they become a powerful tool for improving discoverability, increasing engagement, supporting your calls to action, and helping every podcast episode deliver even more value. ___ 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

    E755 - How To Use Pinterest As a Podcaster, Podcast Seasons, and Podcasting in the Margins - with CO-HOST Andi Smiley.output

    Episode 755 - How To Use Pinterest As a Podcaster, Podcast Seasons, and Podcasting in the Margins - with CO-HOST Andi Smiley This episode features podcast guest co-host Andi Smiley, who shares her journey from broadcast journalism and radio production into podcasting, and how motherhood shaped the way she creates and sustains her show. Starting her podcast shortly after the birth of her youngest child, Andi highlights how podcasting became something that was entirely her own, offering both creative fulfillment and a sense of accomplishment during the busy seasons of parenting. A central theme throughout the conversation is sustainability. Andi emphasizes that podcasting, much like parenting, is a long game. Rather than chasing rigid rules like weekly publishing, she encourages creators to build a rhythm that fits their real life. For her, this includes running a seasonal podcast, taking summers off, and keeping episode lengths manageable. Shorter solo episodes and capped interview durations help reduce editing time and prevent burnout. The discussion challenges common podcasting myths, especially the belief that consistency must mean constant output. Andi shares her experience of hitting a wall after years of weekly episodes and how stepping away helped her reset and return with a healthier approach. She reinforces that taking breaks is not فقط acceptable but necessary for long term creativity. Flexibility is another key insight. Podcast titles, artwork, and even content structure are not permanent decisions. Andi encourages podcasters to adapt, experiment, and evolve their shows over time without fear of getting it wrong early on. The episode also explores overlooked growth strategies. Andi speaks highly of podcast trailers as a powerful way to introduce new listeners quickly. She also highlights the value of community, sharing how meaningful connections and friendships can come from simple outreach like guest invitations. A major portion of the conversation focuses on Pinterest as a discovery tool for podcasters. Unlike fast moving social platforms, Pinterest offers long term visibility through search driven content. Andi explains how even a simple, consistent pinning strategy can drive traffic over time without overwhelming the creator. She also underscores the importance of using the right keywords and keeping the process simple and sustainable. Throughout the episode, there is a strong reminder of the human side of podcasting. Small actions like leaving reviews, sending messages, and supporting fellow creators can have a lasting impact and strengthen the community as a whole. Key takeaway: Build your podcast around your life, not the other way around. Sustainable systems, flexibility, and intentional breaks are what keep a podcast growing over the long term. https://friendlypodcastguide.com/- "Is Pinterest Right for Your Podcast?" Checklist:  https://friendlypodcastguide.com/is-pinterest-right-for-me-checklist/ Threads:  https://www.threads.com/@friendlypodcastguide Pinterest:  https://www.pinterest.com/friendlypodcastguide/ Pinterest Magic for Podcasters:  https://friendlypodcastguide.com/pinterest-magic-for-podcasters/ Pinterest VIP Setup:  https://friendlypodcastguide.com/pinterest-vip-setup/ ____ 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

    E754 - Two Things That You Can Do Today To Make You A Smarter Podcaster - Practical Podcasting Tips

    Episode 754 - Two Things That You Can Do Today To Make You A Smarter Podcaster - Practical Podcasting Tips This episode brings a valuable lesson back from the archives, focused on what truly makes a smarter podcaster. At its core, it is not about flashy tactics or complicated strategies, but about intentional effort, pride in your work, and a deep respect for your listener. Dave emphasizes that great podcasting starts behind the scenes. The work your audience never sees is often what creates the strongest impact. Preparing your guest with a thoughtful pre-conversation, building rapport, and aligning on the value you want to deliver creates a stronger, more natural conversation. Like a skilled tradesperson who takes pride in craftsmanship, a podcaster’s unseen effort shows up in the final product. Listeners may not know why your show feels better, but they will feel the difference. A major shift highlighted in this episode is moving from “interviewing” to “having a conversation.” This mindset change encourages authenticity, connection, and flow. When you focus less on rigid questions and more on listening, your episodes become more engaging and human. One of the most practical takeaways is the power of asking shorter questions. Long, multi-layered questions can confuse guests and dilute the conversation. Clear, concise questions create space for meaningful answers. Simple prompts like “Why?” or “What happened next?” often lead to deeper insights than over-explained setups. The shorter the question, the smarter the host. Dave also reinforces the importance of staying present. Rather than sticking to a script, follow your guest’s responses and explore the moments they naturally open up. This approach creates a dynamic experience that benefits both the guest and the listener. In the bonus discussion, Dave shares his perspective on video podcasting and YouTube. He explains his audio-first approach, highlighting that while video has its place, it must justify the time and effort with a clear return. For him, audio remains the priority, with YouTube serving as a discovery and distribution tool rather than a primary format. Smart podcasting is built on intentional effort, genuine connection, and simplicity. Focus on your listener, do the unseen work, and ask better, shorter questions to create stronger conversations. ____ 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

    E753 - How Podcasters Lose Money in Podcasting - Are You Tracking Your Money Spent on Podcasting Tools - Some Great Tips from Ralph Estep Jr.

    Episode 753 - How Podcasters Lose Money in Podcasting - Are You Tracking Your Money Spent on Podcasting Tools - Some Great Tips from Ralph Estep Jr. In this episode of the How to Podcast series, Dave explores why scripts can sometimes hold podcasters back from truly connecting with their audience. Using Sammy Hagar as a powerful example, he compares singing to a crowd with podcasting to listeners, arguing that the best shows feel like real conversations rather than performances read word for word. The episode encourages creators to think less about perfect delivery and more about being present, natural, and responsive in the moment. Dave explains that scripts can be useful, especially for newer podcasters who need structure and a sense of safety. But when a host becomes too tied to the page, the delivery can start to sound stiff, distant, and more like an audiobook than a podcast. He emphasizes that listeners want to hear a real person with perspective, emotion, and personality, not a memorized document. Small pauses, stumbles, and spontaneous thoughts can actually strengthen trust because they signal authenticity. Throughout the episode, Dave shares his own shift away from word for word scripting and into a more conversational style. He describes how using bullet points, general themes, and a flexible structure allows room for stories, reflection, and the kind of real time moments that make podcasting feel alive. He also applies the same idea to interviews, explaining that curiosity and responsiveness create better conversations than rigid questions prepared in advance. The episode closes with practical guidance for podcasters who want to make the shift without losing structure. Dave suggests scripting the intro and outro if needed, while leaving the middle open enough for personality, stories, and surprises. His message is clear: keep the guardrails, but do not let the script become a wall between you and the people listening. Key takeaway: Your audience connects most with your real voice, not your perfect wording, so keep the structure but leave room for genuine conversation. https://www.ralphestepjr.com/ https://podcastforfree.com/ ____ Helping Podcasters Everyday!  https://howtopodcast.ca/We would love to hear from you - here is our listener survey! https://forms.gle/GbrFv9DGszV8N4PW6

  8. Jul 19

    E752 - Why Your Script Might Be Holding You Back From Your Audience - A Podcasting Lesson From Sammy Hagar

    Episode 752 - Why Your Script Might Be Holding You Back From Your Audience - A Podcasting Lesson From Sammy Hagar In this episode, Dave challenges a common habit in podcasting: relying too heavily on a script. Drawing inspiration from musician Sammy Hagar, he reframes podcasting as a performance rooted in connection rather than perfection. Hagar’s philosophy of not reading to the audience but performing to them becomes a powerful metaphor for how podcasters should approach the mic. Dave makes it clear that scripts are not the enemy, especially for new podcasters who need structure and confidence. The issue arises when the script becomes a barrier between the host and the listener. Writing and speaking are fundamentally different. When delivery is tied too tightly to written words, it can sound stiff, distant, and overly polished, more like an audiobook than a conversation. The episode encourages creators to gradually step away from full scripts and lean into a more natural, conversational style. Dave emphasizes that listeners connect with real moments, not perfect sentences. When you allow space for unscripted thoughts, personal stories, and in-the-moment reflections, your voice becomes more human and relatable. That is where trust and engagement are built. Using his own experience, Dave explains how ditching a word-for-word script helped him sound more present and authentic. He highlights that small imperfections, pauses, and spontaneous ideas actually strengthen credibility. These elements signal that you are thinking and responding in real time, which helps listeners feel like they are part of a genuine interaction rather than being spoken at. A practical approach is offered through a simple structure: a clear intro that can be scripted, a flexible middle guided by bullet points and stories, and a focused outro with a takeaway and call to action. This balance allows for organization without sacrificing connection. Dave also shares how this philosophy improves interviews. By avoiding pre-written questions and staying curious, conversations become more dynamic and responsive, creating a better experience for both guest and audience. At its core, this episode is about presence. When podcasters shift from performing perfectly to speaking authentically, they create space for resonance. Like two instruments vibrating in sync, a real connection forms when the host is fully engaged with the listener. Key takeaway: Your audience connects with who you are in the moment, not how perfectly you follow a script. ____ Helping Podcasters Everyday!  https://howtopodcast.ca/We would love to hear from you - here is our listener survey! https://forms.gle/GbrFv9DGszV8N4PW6

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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 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!

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