Podcast Insider

Todd Cochrane, Mike Dell & MacKenzie Bennett

3.5 (18)
TECHNOLOGY
UPDATED WEEKLY

Blubrry's official podcast where we discuss the podcasting industry, Blubrry news and interview podcasters on why they started their podcast.

1 DAY AGO

Podcasting’s Year in Review: Trends and 2025 Predictions

In this recap episode, we’re diving into the key trends and milestones that defined podcasting in 2024 and looking ahead to what 2025 might have in store. Join us as we explore predictions, challenges, and opportunities for podcasters in the year to come. Happy Holidays! And a note to all podcasters, please be patient with our support team from now til Jan. 2, 2025 as scale down our team for some well deserved time off. Today's Hosts: Todd Cochrane, MacKenzie Bennett and Mike Dell 2024 Recap: Trends That Shaped 2024: Emerging podcast categories that gained traction. The role of AI in podcast creation and promotion. Growth of video podcasts and hybrid formats. Everyone talking but lots of investment Little return for most Average podcaster is not seeing growth Unless they have a serious video strategy Shifts in listener demographics or behavior. Monetary Insights: Changes in podcast ad revenue and sponsorship trends. Growth of subscription-based podcasts and private feeds. Platforms or networks that paid out the most to creators. Rogan renewed Tech & Tools: Breakthrough technologies in podcasting (e.g., automated editing, AI transcription, or discovery tools). Improvements in analytics or monetization tools. Cultural Moments: Podcasts that drove major cultural conversations in 2024. Milestones for diversity and inclusion in podcasting. Looking Ahead to 2025: Predicted Trends: Potential new podcast genres or formats. TikTok ban in America From TikTok to YouTube? Back to Instagram? The increasing importance of community-building and listener engagement. Advancements in personalization and AI-driven podcast recommendations. Monetization & Business: Predictions for ad revenue growth or challenges. New monetization models for creators (e.g., blockchain, NFTs). The role of corporate sponsorships and branded content. Listener Experience: Innovations that may improve accessibility and discoverability. Trends in interactive podcasts or gamification. Challenges to Watch: Navigating audience trust amidst AI-generated content. Competition with other forms of media for attention. How regulatory changes might affect podcasting globally. Opportunities for Creators: Expanding into underserved niches. Leveraging data to create hyper-targeted content. The role of PR in carving out a podcast's unique brand identity. Got a subject you would like us to cover on the show, Drop an email to mike@blubrry.com (audio, text, video), and we may use it. You can also post a question on the Blubrry Podcasting Facebook group. The best place for support with any Blubrry product or service is our ticket system. Tickets give the whole team access vs. direct emails or calls. General podcasting discussions and more can be shared on the Blubrry Podcasting Facebook group. Fill out our listener survey at surveys.blubrry.com/podcastinsider Hosting customers can schedule a one-on-one call with Todd or a tech checkup with Mike at todd@blubrry.com and mike@blubrry.com Stay tuned for more episodes and visit our website for the latest updates and resources.
DEC 12

Optimizing Podcast Length: Balancing Depth and Engagement

Comparison is a thief of joy and that includes asking everyone how long you think your podcast should be. The answer lies with you, the creator and how long you believe each episode of your podcast should be. Today, Podcast Insider gives you the pros and cons on how one can optimize podcast length to balance the depth and engagement that creators strive for. Today's Hosts: Todd Cochrane and MacKenzie Bennett Don’t focus on a specific time length of your episode, take this advice and decide what works best for you and your audience. Optimizing Podcast Length Pros of Shorter Podcast Episodes Higher Engagement: Short, digestible episodes reduce drop-off and fit busy schedules. Consistent Production: Faster to produce, allowing for frequent, reliable uploads. Easy to Repurpose: Ideal for social media clips and mini-episodes to attract new listeners. Lower Production Effort: Less editing and quicker publishing, especially helpful for beginners. Focus on Key Points: Encourages concise, impactful content, ideal for quick tips and updates. Cons of Shorter Podcast Episodes Limited Depth: Restricted ability to explore complex topics fully. Lower Perceived Value in Some Genres: Can lack the immersive experience expected in storytelling genres. Reduced Monetization: Fewer ad opportunities, which may limit revenue. Frequent Content Planning: Requires consistent topic ideas, which may lead to burnout. Less Listener-Host Connection: Less time for building rapport, potentially limiting fan loyalty. Pros of Longer Podcast Episodes In-Depth Content: Allows for comprehensive storytelling, deep dives, and detailed discussions, enhancing engagement. More Monetization Opportunities: Supports more ad spots and attracts engaged listeners likely to support premium content. Stronger Listener-Host Connection: Builds rapport with listeners through extended time for personality and humor. Flexible Content Structure: Enables multiple segments and content styles, providing variety within an episode. Higher Retention for Loyal Fans: Appeals to dedicated listeners, fostering a sense of community and encouraging word-of-mouth growth. Cons of Longer Podcast Episodes Higher Production Time and Costs: Requires more editing, increasing time and resource demands, which may lead to burnout. Listener Drop-Off: Risk of losing listeners partway through due to the extended length. Harder to Repurpose: Challenging to create shareable snippets, as longer content is less digestible for social media. Intimidating for New Listeners: Longer episodes can deter newcomers who prefer shorter, easier-to-try content. Risk of Filler Content: Pressure to meet a longer runtime may lead to repetitive or less engaging content. Remember, at the end of the day you - the podcaster - decides how long is best for your show. Got a subject you would like us to cover on the show, Drop an email to mike@blubrry.com (audio, text, video), and we may use it. You can also post a question on the Blubrry Podcasting Facebook group. The best place for support with any Blubrry product or service is our ticket system. Tickets give the whole team access vs. direct emails or calls. General podcasting discussions and more can be shared on the Blubrry Podcasting Facebook group. Fill out our listener survey at surveys.blubrry.com/podcastinsider Hosting customers can schedule a one-on-one call with Todd or a tech checkup with Mike at todd@blubrry.com and mike@blubrry.com Stay tuned for more episodes and visit our website for the latest updates and resources.

18 min
DEC 5

Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide for Podcasters

Tis the season to gift your podcast obsessed loves ones with their favorite gear. Struggling to find the perfect gift for that podcaster who spends more time talking to a microphone than actual humans? Fear not! Blubrry has compiled the ultimate guide to help you win the title of “Best Gift Giver Ever” in your favorite podcaster’s heart (or at least their next episode shoutout). Today's Hosts: Mike Dell and Todd Cochrane Take a Look at Blubrry's Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide for Podcasters 1. Quality Microphone: Microphones are a very personal thing. We would suggest a dynamic mic. SM7B, M7, RE-320, Rode Podmic or the ATR2100X. 2. Pop Filter/Windscreen: Good at reducing plosive sounds (like “p” and “b” noises) that can distort audio. A simple, affordable add-on that makes a big difference in sound quality. 3. Headphones: A great set of wired headphones (not wireless) are a great gift! Audio-Technica ATH-M50x: Closed-back design provides accurate sound monitoring without audio bleed, making them ideal for editing and live recording. Other great options include the Sony MDR-7506, known for clarity and comfort. 4. Portable Audio Recorder: Zoom H5 or H6: Compact, portable recorders that are excellent for capturing high-quality audio on the go. They’re great for recording interviews, live shows, or backup audio. 5. Microphone Boom Arm: Rode PSA1: A versatile and sturdy boom arm that keeps the microphone stable and easy to position, reducing desk vibrations and clutter. Heil PL-T2 is a bit more expensive, but it’s the gold-standard for mic booms. 6. Podcast Editing Software: Both of our suggestions are subscriptions so get a yearly subscription. Adobe Audition: Industry-standard editing software with powerful tools for mixing and mastering audio. Great for podcasters who want to fine-tune their episodes. Descript: An innovative editing software that makes audio editing simple by transcribing and allowing edits through text. 7. Acoustic Panels: Foam or fabric-covered panels help dampen room sound and prevent echo, making audio recordings cleaner. Perfect for podcasters with a home studio. 8. Laptop Stand: Helps keep the workspace ergonomic and organized, reducing neck strain and providing better airflow for the laptop. Look for options that are adjustable and portable. 9. Custom Podcast Artwork: Hiring a graphic designer or gifting a service like 99designs can make a podcast stand out with visually appealing artwork.. 10. Gift Card for Stock Music/Effects: A subscription to a service like Epidemic Sound or a gift card for AudioJungle can provide access to high-quality music and sound effects for podcast intros and transitions. 11. Online Courses: Platforms like MasterClass or Skillshare have courses on audio editing, storytelling, and interview techniques. There are also podcast-specific courses available to help creators sharpen their skills. 12. USB Audio Interface: Focusrite Scarlett 2i2: A great audio interface for connecting XLR microphones to a computer. It’s known for its high-quality preamps and ease of use. AudioSigma - Podmoble 13. Backup Storage Solution: A reliable external hard drive (like the WD My Passport or Seagate Backup Plus) is crucial for storing and backing up episodes. Cloud storage subscriptions to services like Google Drive or Dropbox are also valuable for extra safety. 14. Comfortable Office Chair: Ergonomic chairs, like those from Herman Miller or Steelcase,

22 min
NOV 21

Unlocking New Listeners: Innovative Podcast Marketing Techniques

Are you ready to grow your podcast audience and reach listeners you’ve never tapped into before? In this episode, we dig into the latest and most effective marketing techniques to expand your show’s reach. From creative social media strategies to leveraging unique platforms and partnerships, we explore actionable tips that can help you attract new listeners. Tune in to learn about 10+ innovative podcast marketing techniques! Today's Hosts: MacKenzie Bennett and Todd Cochrane Here are some innovative and fresh strategies to market a podcast to new listeners, tapping into unique digital spaces, interactive content, and community-driven engagement: 1. Interactive and Personalized Audio Clips Dynamic Audio Clips: Create short, personalized audio previews using platforms like Headliner or Audiogram. Share these clips on social media with captions that directly engage the viewer, like “Ever wondered how to…? Listen to this quick tip!” Interactive Audio Experiences: Use tools like Descript to make interactive, editable transcripts or snippets, allowing listeners to engage with your podcast before committing to a full episode. Add clickable timestamps or key highlights to make clips more engaging. 2. AI-Powered Recommendations and Voice-Activated Marketing Podcast AI Tools: Blubrry's podcast AI tools allow podcasters to plan, produce, and promote their show seamlessly from their publishing dashboard. Podcast Recommendations with AI: Use AI-based recommendation engines, like those in Goodpods or Podchaser, to increase your reach. Engaging in communities that leverage AI for podcast discovery allows listeners to find your show through shared interests and listening behavior. Voice Assistant Marketing: Optimize your podcast to be found through voice search on platforms like Google Assistant, Alexa, and Siri. For instance, “Hey Alexa, play the latest episode of [Podcast Name]!” prompts listeners to find you easily through voice commands. 3. Collaborative Playlists with Other Podcasters Cross-Podcast Playlists on Spotify: Collaborate with similar podcasts to create themed playlists on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. Curate episodes that cover complementary topics, and promote the playlist across each podcast’s platforms. Collaborative “Best Of” Episodes: Work with other podcasters to create a collaborative episode featuring clips from each show. Make it a fun, joint project that gives listeners a sampler of several podcasts. 4. Interactive Content on Social Media Polls, Quizzes, and Games: Design social media content that’s interactive and aligns with your podcast’s theme. Run polls, quizzes, or mini-games related to your latest episode to engage your audience in a fun, low-commitment way. Live “Ask Me Anything” (AMA) Sessions: Host live AMAs on Instagram, Twitter, or LinkedIn, answering questions about recent episodes, upcoming guests, or behind-the-scenes stories. Promote it as a way for new listeners to get to know the podcast. 5. Geotargeted Ads and Local Marketing Location-Based Advertising: Use geotargeting on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or Spotify to reach listeners in specific areas, especially if your podcast has local or regional appeal. Collaborate with Local Businesses: Partner with local businesses or events, offering small “ad” segments in exchange for them sharing your podcast through their own social media or email newsletters. 6. Cross-Platform Content Diversification TikTok and Reels Content: Create short, highly engaging clips specifically for TikTok and Instagram Reels, capturing funny moments, hot takes, or teasers of upcoming guests. Ensure the clips include captions or graphics to grab attention even without sound. LinkedIn and Niche Community Forums: For professional or topic-specific podcasts, LinkedIn can be a goldmine for reaching new listeners. Share insights,

23 min
NOV 15

Celebrating Gratitude and Community in Podcasting

It is unofficially the holiday season and today we're here to discuss the ways in which podcasters can participate in any way they can. Giving back to the community around Thanksgiving is a meaningful way for a podcast to show appreciation to listeners, guests, and supporters. Today's Hosts: Mike Dell, Todd Cochrane and MacKenzie Bennett Here are some ideas to create a Thanksgiving Give-Back theme: 1. Charity Shoutouts and Partnerships: Highlight Local or Relevant Charities: Dedicate an episode to featuring charities or organizations that resonate with your podcast’s niche. Share their stories, invite representatives to speak, and encourage listeners to donate or get involved. Charity Sponsorship or Matching Donations: Pledge a portion of your podcast’s sponsorship revenue for the month to a chosen charity, or match listener donations up to a certain amount. Announce the initiative and encourage listeners to join in, creating a collective effort to make a difference. Create a Donation Drive: Collaborate with your listeners to raise funds for a specific cause. Provide incentives, like shoutouts on the show, for those who donate, or set a community goal and celebrate together if it’s reached. 2. Give Back Through Special Listener Content: Audience Appreciation Episodes: Host an episode dedicated to thanking your listeners. Include shoutouts, listener-submitted stories, or even “fan of the year” awards. Show your gratitude for the community that keeps your podcast going. Listener Q&A or Story Submission Episode: Invite listeners to submit questions, stories, or ideas and feature them in a special episode. This could be stories of gratitude, memorable Thanksgiving moments, or reflections on your podcast’s theme. Fan-Generated Content: Let listeners take part in the show by submitting their own clips, answering a question, or sharing a message. Compile these into a community-driven episode that highlights the diversity and voices of your audience. 3. Thanksgiving Giveaways and Contests: Gratitude Giveaway: Run a giveaway for loyal listeners, featuring prizes that relate to your podcast’s niche or audience interests. This could be exclusive podcast merchandise, gift cards, or a chance to be a guest on your show. “Nominate a Friend” Contest: Encourage listeners to nominate someone they think deserves a reward, whether it’s a small cash prize, a gift card, or a custom podcast shoutout. This promotes community spirit and allows listeners to support each other. Share-the-Love Challenge: Set up a “pay it forward” challenge encouraging listeners to do something kind in their community. Have them share their acts of kindness on social media with a unique hashtag, and share some of the best on your show. 4. Host a Thanksgiving-Themed Livestream or Virtual Gathering: Virtual Thanksgiving Meetup: Host a live-streamed Thanksgiving hangout where you and your listeners can chat, share stories, and express gratitude. Invite special guests, answer listener questions, and make it an interactive event. Live Charity Stream: Set up a live charity stream where listeners can donate in real-time to a cause while enjoying a special Thanksgiving-themed podcast episode or Q&A. This is also a great chance to feature notable guests, making the event feel special. Host a “Friendsgiving” Roundtable: Bring together past guests or members of your podcast community for a Friendsgiving episode. Each guest can share something they’re grateful for in podcasting, creating an atmosphere of appreciation and warmth. 5. Community Projects and Volunteering: Organize a Local Volunteer Event: If your podcast has a strong local following, consider organizing a volunteer day where you and listeners can give back together,

13 min
NOV 8

Boost Your Video Podcast Quality with Expert Editing Tips

Podcasters know that video podcasting is quickly growing and they want to be part of the hype, but how does one jump on this effectively? Today, the Blubrry team goes into detail on to not only create video episodes but to do so well. From recording to editing to publishing, we take you through 15 tips on how to get your best video episode yet! Today's Hosts: Mike Dell and Todd Cochrane Editing a video podcast involves balancing both audio and visual elements to create a polished and engaging final product. Here are some tips to streamline the process and enhance the quality of your video podcast: 1. Prioritize Clean Audio First Audio Cleanup: Start by cleaning up the audio track, as clear sound is essential for podcast listeners. Remove background noise, reduce echo, and apply EQ and compression to balance levels. Sync Audio and Video: If you recorded audio separately, sync it to the video right away to avoid drift. Use claps, hand movements, or syncing markers for easy alignment in the editing software. 2. Choose Simple, User-Friendly Software Select an All-in-One Tool: Programs like Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, and DaVinci Resolve offer powerful editing capabilities for both video and audio. For simpler edits, tools like iMovie or Descript (which has both video and audio editing features) can work well. Use Templates or Presets: Many editing software options come with built-in templates for intros, lower thirds, and transitions, which can save time and ensure a consistent look across episodes. 3. Use Multi-Cam Editing for Multiple Angles Switch Angles for Engagement: If you have multiple camera angles, use your editing software’s multi-cam feature to easily switch between shots. Changing angles keeps the viewer’s attention and creates a more dynamic viewing experience. Emphasize Reactions: Switch to close-up angles during key moments, like when someone laughs or makes an impactful point, to capture facial expressions and enhance engagement. 4. Add Visual Interest with Graphics and Overlays Include Lower Thirds for Speaker Names: Adding lower thirds with speaker names or topic headers makes it easy for viewers to follow who is speaking or understand the segment focus. Use Animated Overlays for Emphasis: Use simple graphics or animations (like arrows, text pop-ups, or icons) to highlight key points, jokes, or important moments. Keep them subtle and relevant to avoid distracting viewers. 5. Incorporate B-Roll and Visuals to Enhance the Story Use B-Roll to Illustrate Points: B-roll footage, images, or screen recordings relevant to the conversation add visual depth and context. For instance, if a guest mentions a specific event, you can overlay relevant visuals to keep viewers engaged. Add Text Overlays or Key Quotes: Highlight essential points or quotes with on-screen text, reinforcing key takeaways for viewers. 6. Keep Transitions Simple Stick to Clean Cuts or Fades: For a polished, professional look, use simple cuts or crossfades between scenes. Avoid fancy transitions like star wipes or 3D effects, as they can look dated and distract from the content. Use Jump Cuts Sparingly: Jump cuts (where you cut to different parts of the same shot) can help trim unnecessary pauses or filler words, but overuse can make the video feel choppy. Use them only when they improve pacing. 7. Optimize for Different Platforms Consider Aspect Ratios: Most platforms (like YouTube) use a 16:9 ratio, but shorter clips for Instagram Reels or TikTok should be in a vertical 9:16 format. Edit shorter, engaging highlights in these formats to promote on social media. Create Engaging Thumbnails: Design a thumbnail that features your podcast logo,

25 min
NOV 1

Tales from the Podcast Crypt: Navigating Nightmares in Podcasting

Happy Halloween from Podcast Insider! Join Mike Dell and Dave Clements from the Blubrry team as they recount the most haunting experiences in podcasting in this Halloween special. From forgotten "record" buttons to complicated RSS feeds, each story offers insights and lessons that every podcaster can appreciate. Listen in for laughs, shivers, and valuable tips to help you avoid these common podcasting pitfalls. Dave's Podcasting Missteps Interview fail: forgot to hit record on a Geek This! interview with a filmmaker. Unexpected guest struggles: a voice actor on PGwS was unprepared for her D&D role. Mike's Customer Horror Stories "Be Everywhere" strategy gone wrong: a customer juggling multiple podcast hosting platforms. Unintended mishap: a major podcaster’s Apple listing went down due to keyword stuffing—just as he scored massive publicity. Lessons Learned Always check your equipment before recording. Stick with a single, consistent RSS feed to avoid confusion and delays. If moving to a new website platform, consult Blubrry support for a smooth transition. What podcasting nightmare have you experienced that you can share with the team so that we can warn our podcast community? Listen now to discover how to turn these horror stories into useful podcasting tips! 🎙️ Got a subject you would like us to cover on the show, Drop an email to mike@blubrry.com (audio, text, video), and we may use it. You can also post a question on the Blubrry Podcasting Facebook group. The best place for support with any Blubrry product or service is our ticket system. Tickets give the whole team access vs. direct emails or calls. General podcasting discussions and more can be shared on the Blubrry Podcasting Facebook group. Fill out our listener survey at surveys.blubrry.com/podcastinsider Hosting customers can schedule a one-on-one call with Todd or a tech checkup with Mike at todd@blubrry.com and mike@blubrry.com Stay tuned for more episodes and visit our website for the latest updates and resources.

31 min
OCT 24

Overcoming Podcasting Paralysis: Tips and Tricks

Today's Hosts: Mike Dell and MacKenzie Bennett There are several common barriers that stop people from starting a podcast, ranging from technical concerns to personal fears. This podcasting paralysis stops many from finally getting their show out there and today, we are here to alleviate those anxieties and dissecting how to fix them. By addressing these concerns—through education, planning, and embracing imperfections—potential podcasters can overcome these barriers and successfully launch their shows. We at Blubrry know that you can overcome podcasting paralysis. Here’s a succinct list combining the common barriers to starting a podcast and ways to overcome them: 1. Fear of Failure or Rejection Self Doubt and Fear of Negative Feedback Overcome it by: Embracing imperfection, expecting small audiences at first, and viewing feedback as a growth opportunity. 2. Technical Challenges Lack of Knowledge and Fear of Technology Overcome it by: Starting with minimal equipment and learning as you go. Use free resources like tutorials and online communities. 3. Time Commitment Perceived Time Burden and Balancing Other Responsibilities Overcome it by: Setting a manageable schedule, batching episodes, and outsourcing tasks when needed. 4. Financial Concerns Cost of Equipment and Ongoing Subscription Fees Overcome it by: Using affordable, entry-level equipment and free podcasting tools like Audacity to reduce initial costs. 5. Content Uncertainty Not Knowing What to Talk About and Lack of Audience Clarity Overcome it by: Planning topics ahead and focusing on subjects you're passionate about to create consistent, engaging content. 6. Perfectionism Striving for the Perfect Setup and Overplanning Overcome it by: Taking action with what you have and understanding that improvement comes with practice, not perfection from the start. 7. Imposter Syndrome Feeling Unqualified and Comparing to Established Podcasts Overcome it by: Focusing on your unique perspective and understanding that everyone’s expertise grows with experience. 8. Fear of Being on the Microphone Stage Fright and Voice Insecurities Overcome it by: Just do it. Practicing regularly and reminding yourself that content value matters more than having a “perfect” voice. 9. Lack of Immediate Results Expecting Instant Success and Ease of Growth Overcome it by: Focusing on gradual growth and redefining success as personal improvement or audience connection rather than instant numbers. 10. Uncertainty About Promotion Marketing Challenges and Limited Budget Overcome it by: Starting with simple organic growth through social media and collaborations, and automating where possible. 11. Fear of Consistency Commitment Anxiety and Burnout Concerns Overcome it by: Creating a sustainable routine and keeping your goals realistic to avoid burnout. 12. Misconceptions About the Podcasting Space Thinking the Market is Saturated and Belief That Only Celebrities Succeed Overcome it by: Focusing on what makes your podcast unique and seeing other podcasters as collaborators, not competitors. 13. Lack of Support No Collaborative Partners and Minimal Encouragement Overcome it by: Joining podcasting communities or working with a partner for support, motivation, and collaboration. 14. Legal Concerns Copyright Issues and Sponsorship and Monetization Rules Overcome it by: Educating yourself on copyright laws and podcast monetization through free resources and legal guides. By addressing these concerns with the right strategies, aspiring podcasters can confidently launch and gro...

26 min

See All (53)

3.5

out of 5

18 Ratings

Pretty good, but…

12/02/2023

App Rover

Content is usually good and helpful for podcasters. But newest episode is an interview with a podcaster which slowly becomes too focused on the content of their podcast (not useful to other podcasters) rather than the production and marketing of their podcast (useful to other podcasters). Do be careful about this with future interviews that “feature” a podcaster. Thanks!
Podcasting news from podcasting experts

02/05/2021

The Blind Blogger

Accurate up to date news about podcasting from three top experts in our world. They give the news straight, to the point, with heart and warmth. And they aren’t above mentioning people or shows they find have value. These three people are some of the most knowledgeable in the industry, and I’m glad they choose to take the time to collect this information and share it with us. Thanks, Maxwell
Podcasters Podcast

10/11/2018

Bigredrobot

For those who are podcasters, I think the topics and industry news is valuable. Other reviews say its not flashy but coming from a video podcaster, no audio podcast is going to have as much production value. The audio is clear and polished. If I could give any feedback, make your guests review on iTunes to help water down bad reviews.
Great show with a Great Host

02/23/2018

Me 

PowerPress team is the best!