Podcasting Morning Chat | Real Podcasters, Real Podcasting Advice

Why did you start your podcast? Was it for money, passion, or both? Today, we play a TikTok clip from the Okay Sister Pod that lays out three honest tips for launching a show. Their takes sparked a lively debate. Some agreed that podcasting shouldn’t begin with money as the goal, while others argued that it is possible to earn if you approach it with a clear plan and treat it like a business. We also discuss the reality of low early downloads, why consistency matters more than a weekly schedule, and how to reframe your analytics. To close out the week, we keep our Friday tradition alive by sharing and celebrating wins from our community.Episode Highlights: [03:21] TikTok Clip: Okay Sister Pod Launch Tips[06:00] Don’t Do It for the Money Debate[09:00] Business Plans, Sponsorships, and Monetization[13:00] Why Podcasting Is Harder Than It Looks[26:00] Slow Growth and Managing Expectations[36:00] Consistency and Communication [41:00] Friday WinsLinks & Resources: Join The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcasting⁠Get Your Tickets for The Empowered Podcasting Conference:www.empoweredpodcasting.comClip From Okay Sister Pod:www.tiktok.com/@okaysisterpod/video/7362940797903310122It’s Amanda Yoa:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/its-amanda-yoa/id1646444562ReThinking Podcasting by Matt Bliss:https://rethinkingpodcasting.com/episode/alive-internet-theory-and-actually-seeing-your-listenersLate Bloomer Living by Yvonne Marchese:https://www.latebloomerliving.com/Remember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to our community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on ⁠Clubhouse⁠: ⁠⁠⁠ https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0w⁠⁠Or Join us on Chatter: https://preview.chattersocial.io/group/98a69881-f328-4eae-bf3c-9b0bb741481dLive on YouTube: ⁠https://youtube.com/@marcronick⁠Brought to you by⁠ ⁠iRonickMedia.com⁠⁠ 

The podcast money leak you’re missing might not be where you think, and once we see it, it changes how we look at everything. In this episode, we unpack how small, unnoticed habits are quietly draining money from our podcasts, from forgotten subscriptions to untracked expenses and scattered income streams. As the conversation unfolds, we realize the issue isn’t that we’re careless, it’s that most of us were never given a simple system to actually see what’s happening. But when we step back and start paying attention, even for just a few minutes each week, the patterns become clear and the leaks start to surface. By the end, we walk away with a more intentional way to manage our podcast finances so we can stop losing money and start making smarter decisions with what we already have.Episode Highlights:[01:51] Movie Chat Project Hail Mary[03:59] Podcast Evaluation Invite[05:32] Roadcaster Duo Giveaway Preview[07:03] Creators Losing Money[07:50] Money System Self Check[10:36] Why Tracking Breaks Down[12:47] Overwhelm and Separation[18:10] Taxes and Donation Wording[19:14] Tools for Every Stage[21:28] What Everyone Uses[25:42] How to Enter Giveaway[26:54] Giveaway Entry Boosts[27:48] Mic Compatibility Q&A[29:07] Bonus Coaching Offer[30:30] Money Review Framework[32:33] John Overwhelm Talk[37:15] LLC Setup Pitfalls[43:14] Estimated Taxes Debate[46:59] Profit First Pay Yourself[51:08] Wrap Up And Next ShowLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: ⁠⁠www.podcastingmorningchat.com⁠⁠Ways to Watch or Listen:⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.podcastingmorningchat.com/joinus/Meet the PMC Cast and Crew:⁠⁠https://podcastingmorningchat.com/people⁠⁠Join The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:⁠⁠www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcasting⁠⁠⁠Book A Free Call With Marc: https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycallApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcastingmorningchat.com/eval⁠⁠Join us every other Monday at 7 AM ET for the Obsession Worthy Podcasts:⁠⁠⁠http://podcastingmorningchat.com/owp/⁠⁠Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on ⁠Clubhouse⁠: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcastingmorningchat.com/clubhouse⁠⁠EPC3 Speaker Application:⁠⁠ ⁠https://empoweredpodcasting.com/speakersPowered by⁠⁠⁠ ⁠iRonickMedia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ and⁠ ⁠ContentCreatorsAccountant.com⁠⁠Send in your mailbag questions:⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.podcastingmorningchat.contact/⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠marc@ironickmedia.com⁠Want to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b

What if your podcast is revealing more about you than you realize? Today’s conversation explores how a simple exercise can uncover the deeper reasons behind why we podcast. From finishing the sentence “I started my podcast because…” to sharing the episodes we’re most proud of, this episode highlights the purpose, growth, and personal stories behind each creator’s journey. You’ll hear how podcasts evolve over time, how meaningful moments shape a show, and how unexpected opportunities and relationships can come from it. We wrap up the week by celebrating wins and recognizing how far each creator has come.Episode Highlights:[00:05] Episode introduction and new reflection exercise[02:18] Giveaway announcement and Money Mondays preview[04:07] Speaking at Vanderbilt and podcast teaching experience[08:58] Icebreaker: “I started my podcast because…”[12:37] Taking control of your podcast direction[21:26] Icebreaker: “The episode I’m most proud of…”[27:01] The deeper impact of podcasting[34:42] Favorite episodes from a producer’s perspective[41:03] Wins from the week and audience impact[45:10] Building relationships through podcasting[50:55] Podcast growth and analytics winsLinks & Resources: Sid Meadows' Favorite Episodes:https://www.sidmeadows.com/episode76https://www.sidmeadows.com/episode97Junaid Ahmed's Favorite Episode:https://www.hacksandhobbies.com/episode/e725-pat-flynn-from-learner-to-leader-a-conversation-with-pat-flynn/New book by Junaid Ahmed:https://prmbook.com/Alex Balish's Favorite Episode:https://www.daddydaughterbookworms.com/daddy-daughter-bookworms-exploring-class-economics-and-student-struggles-with-act-by-kayla-miller/Ralph Estep Jr.’s Favorite Episode:https://www.financiallyconfidentchristian.com/beat-the-dealership/Marc's Favorite PMC Episode:https://www.podcastingmorningchat.com/79The Podcasting Morning Chat: ⁠⁠www.podcastingmorningchat.com⁠⁠Ways to Watch or Listen:⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.podcastingmorningchat.com/joinus/Meet the PMC Cast and Crew:⁠⁠https://podcastingmorningchat.com/people⁠⁠Join The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:⁠⁠www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcasting⁠⁠⁠Book A Free Call With Marc: https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycallApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcastingmorningchat.com/eval⁠⁠Join us every other Monday at 7 AM ET for the Obsession Worthy Podcasts:⁠⁠⁠http://podcastingmorningchat.com/owp/⁠⁠Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on ⁠Clubhouse⁠: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcastingmorningchat.com/clubhouse⁠⁠EPC3 Speaker Application:⁠⁠ ⁠https://empoweredpodcasting.com/speakersPowered by⁠⁠⁠ ⁠iRonickMedia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ and⁠ ⁠ContentCreatorsAccountant.com⁠⁠Send in your mailbag questions:⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.podcastingmorningchat.contact/⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠marc@ironickmedia.com⁠Want to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b 

What if the thing holding your podcast back… is thinking too much about it? In this episode, we talk about why it might be time to stop overthinking your podcast launch and just begin. If you’ve been stuck planning, second-guessing your idea, or waiting until everything feels “ready,” this conversation will feel familiar. The PMC cast and crew break down what actually matters when starting a podcast and what tends to slow you down. From getting clear on your “why” to understanding who you’re really trying to help, we explore how overthinking, comparing, and over-preparing can keep you from making real progress. You’ll also hear honest stories from podcasters who didn’t have it all figured out when they started… and are better for it. If you’ve been putting it off, this might be the nudge you need to finally hit record.Episode Highlights:[00:05] Opening and introduction to the topic[04:02] Why this conversation matters for new podcasters[06:08] Starting with your “why” and defining success[07:42] Understanding the current podcasting space[10:23] Writing down pros and cons before launching[12:52] Finding your podcast idea through conversations[18:38] Exploring different formats and styles[20:02] Learning from smaller creators, not just big shows[24:07] Using your podcast as a research tool[30:21] Focusing on what your audience actually needs[35:01] Why growth takes time and consistency[45:14] Letting your show evolve over time[49:24] Giving yourself grace in the early stages[51:10] Finding support through coaches and community[55:20] Starting with audio to avoid overwhelmLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: ⁠⁠www.podcastingmorningchat.com⁠⁠Ways to Watch or Listen:⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.podcastingmorningchat.com/joinus/Meet the PMC Cast and Crew:⁠⁠https://podcastingmorningchat.com/people⁠⁠Join The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:⁠⁠www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcasting⁠⁠⁠Book A Free Call With Marc: https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycallApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcastingmorningchat.com/eval⁠⁠Join us every other Monday at 7 AM ET for the Obsession Worthy Podcasts:⁠⁠⁠http://podcastingmorningchat.com/owp/⁠⁠Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on ⁠Clubhouse⁠: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcastingmorningchat.com/clubhouse⁠⁠EPC3 Speaker Application:⁠⁠ ⁠https://empoweredpodcasting.com/speakersPowered by⁠⁠⁠ ⁠iRonickMedia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ and⁠ ⁠ContentCreatorsAccountant.com⁠⁠Send in your mailbag questions:⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.podcastingmorningchat.contact/⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠marc@ironickmedia.com⁠Want to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b 

In this week’s news and commentary episode, we break down how AI tools are starting to automate parts of the podcasting process, from production workflows to fully generated content, and what that means for creators trying to stand out . As the conversation unfolds, we also explore shifts in measurement, ad spend, and platform strategy, revealing an industry that’s evolving faster than most expected. At the center of it all is a bigger question, as AI lowers the barrier to entry, what will actually make a podcast worth listening to?Episode Highlights:[01:20] Hosts and Community Invite[02:20] Housekeeping and Live Stream Plug[03:43] Community Shoutout NYT Contest[05:35] Podcast Name Change?[10:02] Podcast Metrics and ROI Tracking[13:25] Top Charts Spotify and Goodpods[15:38] Podcasting Events Roundup[18:10] IRS Crackdown for Creators[22:15] Alex Cooper Reality Series[23:43] British Airways Audio and Harry Potter[27:13] AI Podcast Hosting Explained[29:32] Human Connection vs Bots[30:57] Spotify AI and Discovery Fears[33:31] AI Agents and Resource Waste[36:57] Automation vs Creation Debate[41:42] Beehiiv Enters Podcasting[43:09] All in One Platform Risks[48:54] Own Your Audience and Wrap UpLinks & Resources: Catch our first episode of Empowered Podcasting LIVE!podcastingmorningchat.com/epcliveOur Episode All About Substack:podcastingmorningchat.com/460The Podcasting Morning Chat: ⁠⁠www.podcastingmorningchat.com⁠⁠Ways to Watch or Listen:⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.podcastingmorningchat.com/joinus/Meet the PMC Cast and Crew:⁠⁠https://podcastingmorningchat.com/people⁠⁠Join The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:⁠⁠www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcasting⁠⁠⁠Book A Free Call With Marc: https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycallApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcastingmorningchat.com/eval⁠⁠Join us every other Monday at 7 AM ET for the Obsession Worthy Podcasts:⁠⁠⁠http://podcastingmorningchat.com/owp/⁠⁠Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on ⁠Clubhouse⁠: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcastingmorningchat.com/clubhouse⁠⁠EPC3 Speaker Application:⁠⁠ ⁠https://empoweredpodcasting.com/speakersPowered by⁠⁠⁠ ⁠iRonickMedia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ and⁠ ⁠ContentCreatorsAccountant.com⁠⁠Send in your mailbag questions:⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.podcastingmorningchat.contact/⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠marc@ironickmedia.com⁠Want to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b

What if the missing piece in your podcast growth strategy is not more content, but where you are putting it? In this week’s mailbag episode, we dig into real listener questions about getting unstuck, staying consistent, and whether a podcast can actually be too conversational. Along the way, the conversation shifts to a bigger question many creators are asking right now: is promoting your podcast on YouTube actually worth it? We break down what works, what does not, and how to approach YouTube in a way that supports real growth. From small daily actions to building momentum over time, this episode highlights why structure, consistency, and serving real people will always outperform chasing quick wins or vanity metrics.Episode Highlights:[02:03] Housekeeping and Shoutouts[02:35] Hamilton Cover Art Fun[03:56] Renaming the Show[06:28] PMS Initials Debate[12:01] Eval Episodes Update[13:36] Mailbag Question on Avoidance[15:11] Ralphs First 30 Seconds Trick[17:50] Reduce Setup Friction[20:55] Stop Performing Start Recording[22:30] Flow State Timing and Boundaries[28:39] Accountability and Next Steps[29:15] Accountability Body Doubling[30:08] Ralphs Zoom Assistant Hack[31:50] Free Body Doubling Resources[33:52] Mailbag YouTube Promotion[34:55] Shorts and QnA Clips[37:30] SEO Question Based Clips[40:23] Ralphs 10 Dollar Ads Results[43:26] Paid Plus Organic Balance[44:58] Networking Gorilla Marketing[48:31] Community Clip Promotion Ideas[50:44] Create Your Own Luck[52:59] Serve People Grow Audience[55:26] Wrap Up Next EpisodeLinks & Resources: Rian Doris (CEO of FlowState) YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/riandorisThe Podcasting Morning Chat: ⁠⁠www.podcastingmorningchat.com⁠⁠Ways to Watch or Listen:⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.podcastingmorningchat.com/joinus/Meet the PMC Cast and Crew:⁠⁠https://podcastingmorningchat.com/people⁠⁠Join The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:⁠⁠www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcasting⁠⁠⁠Book A Free Call With Marc: https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycallApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcastingmorningchat.com/eval⁠⁠Join us every other Monday at 7 AM ET for the Obsession Worthy Podcasts:⁠⁠⁠http://podcastingmorningchat.com/owp/⁠⁠Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on ⁠Clubhouse⁠: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcastingmorningchat.com/clubhouse⁠⁠EPC3 Speaker Application:⁠⁠ ⁠https://empoweredpodcasting.com/speakersPowered by⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠iRonickMedia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and⁠⁠ ⁠ContentCreatorsAccountant.com⁠⁠⁠Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!Send in your mailbag questions:⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.podcastingmorningchat.contact/⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠marc@ironickmedia.com⁠Want to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b 

What if the reason a podcast sticks with you has less to do with what’s said and more to do with what you feel while listening? In this Obsession Worthy Podcasts episode, the PMC cast and crew unpack Twenty Thousand Hertz’s Hamilton feature to explore how intentional sound design shapes emotion, attention, and the overall listener experience. Led by Jonathan Howard and Ralph Estep Jr., the conversation begins with a breakdown of iconic moments like “My Shot” and the duel scene, then opens into a deeper look at how layering, reverb, silence, and even reversed gunshots are used with purpose to guide listener reaction. As these elements build tension and control emotional payoff, one insight rises to the surface: great podcasts are not just recorded, they are designed. The episode also turns practical, with takeaways on crafting stronger openings, building curiosity before delivering value, and using completion rate data to spot where listeners drop off so you can keep them listening longer.Episode Highlights:[01:56] What Makes the podcast, 'Twenty Thousand Hertz' Special[03:44] Hamilton Hook and Doorway Clip[05:27] Listener Reactions and Access[07:27] Sound Design Starts at Script[09:14] Intentionality for Podcasters[14:02] Training Your Ear for Sound[23:22] My Shot Breakdown Begins[25:41] Reverb and Immersion Explained[27:30] Expert Insight and Broadway Feel[28:26] Sourcing Sound Effects[29:17] Layering Emotion Through Music[32:10] Intentionality Lessons From Film Scoring[33:56] Clip Five: The Big Payoff[35:25] Engineering Audience Response[37:33] Measuring Impact With Completion Rate[41:37] Clip Six: Sound Controls Time[45:30] Silence Pregnant Pauses[48:15] Audience Reflections Manipulation Debate[50:26] Three Takeaways For PodcastersLinks & Resources: Twenty Thousand Hertz's Hamilton (episode)https://podcastingmorningchat.com/20khzThe Podcasting Morning Chat: ⁠⁠www.podcastingmorningchat.com⁠⁠Ways to Watch or Listen:⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.podcastingmorningchat.com/joinus/Meet the PMC Cast and Crew:⁠⁠https://podcastingmorningchat.com/people⁠⁠Join The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:⁠⁠www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcasting⁠⁠⁠Book A Free Call With Marc: https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycallApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcastingmorningchat.com/eval⁠⁠Join us every other Monday at 7 AM ET for the Obsession Worthy Podcasts:⁠⁠⁠http://podcastingmorningchat.com/owp/⁠⁠Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on ⁠Clubhouse⁠: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcastingmorningchat.com/clubhouse⁠⁠EPC3 Speaker Application:⁠⁠ ⁠https://empoweredpodcasting.com/speakersSend in your mailbag questions:⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.podcastingmorningchat.contact/⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠marc@ironickmedia.com⁠Want to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b

Podcast growth isn’t just about content, it’s about clarity. In this episode, we unpack the podcast growth mistake most people miss: messy messaging that makes your show hard to understand, remember, and share. We introduce the simple 5-word test to help you refine your podcast identity, improve word-of-mouth marketing, and make your show instantly clearer to listeners. Through live examples and discussion, we break down how clarity drives podcast growth, why your message needs to be repeatable, and how to position your show so others can easily recommend it. Plus, we wrap with community wins and real-world reminders of the power of connection.Episode Highlights:[00:05] Show kickoff: today’s topic, housekeeping, and upcoming segments[02:16] Obsession Worthy Podcast preview: 20,000 Hertz and Hamilton[04:10] Podcast evaluations, community links, and feedback from past reviews[13:11] Most podcast growth problems are really clarity problems[14:00] Why podcasts spread when other people can explain them quickly[15:39] Real-world examples of concise podcast positioning[18:14] Why your podcast title matters for discoverability and recall[20:20] A simple framework for sharpening your podcast message[26:03] The test: would someone remember your tagline 10 minutes later?[29:45] Refining vague podcast messaging into audience-first language[32:34] Framework: audience, outcome, differentiator[35:29] Wins from the Week: community updates and podcasting progress[45:43] Monetization audit offer for podcasters looking to grow revenueLinks & Resources: Free Podcast Monetization Audit (from Ralph Estep)ContentCreatorsAccountant.com/auditThe Podcasting Morning Chat: ⁠⁠www.podcastingmorningchat.com⁠⁠Ways to Watch or Listen:⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.podcastingmorningchat.com/joinus/Meet the PMC Cast and Crew:⁠⁠https://podcastingmorningchat.com/people⁠⁠Join The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:⁠⁠www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcasting⁠⁠⁠Book A Free Call With Marc: https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycallApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcastingmorningchat.com/eval⁠⁠Join us every other Monday at 7 AM ET for the Obsession Worthy Podcasts:⁠⁠⁠http://podcastingmorningchat.com/owp/⁠⁠Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on ⁠Clubhouse⁠: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcastingmorningchat.com/clubhouse⁠⁠EPC3 Speaker Application:⁠⁠ ⁠https://empoweredpodcasting.com/speakersSend in your mailbag questions:⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.podcastingmorningchat.contact/⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠marc@ironickmedia.com⁠Want to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b 

Today, we break down what it really takes to keep podcasting simple and sustainable, even when you’re on the road. I share my practical travel setup that proves you don’t need a complicated or expensive system to stay consistent. Then we shift into a bigger conversation about competition in podcasting and why so many creators overthink it. We challenge the idea that the space is too crowded and explain why your voice, your perspective, and your consistency matter far more than trying to stand out in a saturated market.Episode Highlights:[12:00] A simple travel setup that actually works[15:30] Why you don’t need perfect gear to stay consistent[40:00] Is podcasting really too crowded?[46:00] Your uniqueness is your advantage[52:00] You are your only real competitionLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: ⁠⁠www.podcastingmorningchat.com⁠⁠Meet the PMC Cast and Crew:⁠⁠https://podcastingmorningchat.com/people⁠⁠Join The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:⁠⁠www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcasting⁠⁠⁠Book A Free Call With Marc: ⁠⁠https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycall⁠⁠Application To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: ⁠⁠https://podcastingmorningchat.com/eval⁠⁠Join us Mondays at 7 AM ET for the Obsession Worthy Podcasts:⁠⁠http://podcastingmorningchat.com/owp/⁠⁠Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on ⁠Clubhouse⁠: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcastingmorningchat.com/clubhouse⁠⁠EPC3 Speaker Application:⁠ ⁠https://empoweredpodcasting.com/speakers⁠⁠Podcasters Happy Hour (March 26, 5:30 pm EDT, North Bethesda, Maryland):⁠⁠https://podnews.net/event/podcaster-visibility-meetup-in-the-dmv⁠⁠Live on YouTube:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://podcastingmorningchat.com/joinus⁠⁠Powered by⁠⁠⁠ ⁠iRonickMedia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ and⁠ ⁠ContentCreatorsAccountant.com⁠⁠Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!Remember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.--- Send in your mailbag question at:⁠⁠⁠ https://www.podcastingmorningchat.contact/⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠marc@ironickmedia.com⁠Want to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b⁠⁠⁠

In this week’s news and commentary episode, we break down a major podcasting shake-up, from rising ad spend and why creators still struggle to prove ROI, to Spotify layoffs and Apple’s evolving video push. We explore a recent report on longtime podcasters stepping away, unpacking burnout, shifting priorities, and the number who are pivoting beyond podcasting. We also challenge the idea that the space is too competitive, even with more celebrity shows entering the scene, and discuss why podcasting continues to grow. Plus, we dive into the shift from the attention economy to the intention economy, where authentic, meaningful content matters more than ever. We wrap with a feel-good story that reminds us of the real impact podcasting can have at any level.Episode Highlights:[06:30] Keyword strategy success (ranking boost)[21:30] Podcast ad spend & why creators must prove ROI[24:30] Spotify layoffs & industry shifts[27:00] Apple Podcasts video update[32:00] Attention → intention economy shift[42:30] Podcasters stepping away (burnout + changes)[50:00] Feel-good story: student podcast impactLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: ⁠⁠www.podcastingmorningchat.com⁠⁠Meet the PMC Cast and Crew:⁠⁠https://podcastingmorningchat.com/people⁠⁠Join The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:⁠⁠www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcasting⁠⁠⁠Book A Free Call With Me: ⁠⁠https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycall⁠⁠Application To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: ⁠⁠https://podcastingmorningchat.com/eval⁠⁠Join us Mondays at 7 AM ET for the Obsession Worthy Podcasts:⁠⁠http://podcastingmorningchat.com/owp/⁠⁠Remember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on ⁠Clubhouse⁠: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcastingmorningchat.com/clubhouse⁠⁠EPC3 Speaker Application:⁠ ⁠https://empoweredpodcasting.com/speakers⁠⁠Podcasters Happy Hour (March 26, 5:30 pm EDT, North Bethesda, Maryland):⁠⁠https://podnews.net/event/podcaster-visibility-meetup-in-the-dmv⁠⁠Marketing Podcast Network / MPN Awards info:marketingpodcasts.netMilitary Creator Con (Arlington, TX):⁠⁠www.militarycreatorcon.com⁠⁠Marc's Stepson Matthew (Instagram):https://www.instagram.com/matthewbcooks/Marc's Stepson Matthew (TikTok):https://www.tiktok.com/@matthewbcooksNew York Times Student Podcast Contest (via Learning Network):⁠⁠https://www.nytimes.com/section/learning⁠⁠Live on YouTube:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://podcastingmorningchat.com/joinus⁠⁠Powered by⁠⁠⁠ ⁠iRonickMedia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ and⁠ ⁠ContentCreatorsAccountant.com⁠⁠Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at:⁠⁠⁠ https://www.podcastingmorningchat.contact/⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠marc@ironickmedia.com⁠Want to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b⁠⁠⁠

In this Mailbag episode of Podcasting Morning Chat, the PMC cast and crew walk through hard lessons from real podcasting mistakes as they answer questions about growth, guest relationships, and audience building, sharing how shows evolve over time and why experimenting often leads to better direction and stronger results, while also unpacking a challenging situation with an unhappy guest requesting content removal that underscores the importance of communication, consent, and having the right systems in place, before closing with practical ways to build real momentum by focusing on relationships, being intentional with your message, and earning your first loyal listeners.Episode Highlights: [03:32] What’s changed in our podcast over the last 90 days [04:52] Why experimenting helps us grow [06:23] Improving our format, structure, and visuals [09:26] Getting clear on who our show is for [10:00] Becoming more intentional with our content [13:22] Handling an unhappy guest situation [17:16] Why guest agreements matter [22:27] Balancing goodwill and protecting our brand [30:00] Using systems to avoid future issues [36:48] Why sharing our podcast feels difficult [38:55] Engagement vs. self-promotion [45:00] Knowing our audience [50:41] How can we get our first 10 listeners [53:00] Growing through collaborationLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: ⁠⁠www.podcastingmorningchat.com⁠⁠Meet the PMC Cast and Crew:⁠⁠https://podcastingmorningchat.com/people⁠⁠Join The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:⁠⁠www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcasting⁠⁠⁠Book A Free Call With Me: ⁠⁠https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycall⁠⁠Application To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: ⁠⁠https://podcastingmorningchat.com/eval⁠⁠Join us Mondays at 7 AM ET for the Obsession Worthy Podcasts:⁠⁠http://podcastingmorningchat.com/owp/⁠⁠Remember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on ⁠Clubhouse⁠: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcastingmorningchat.com/clubhouse⁠⁠EPC3 Speaker Application:⁠ ⁠https://empoweredpodcasting.com/speakers⁠⁠Podcasters Happy Hour (March 26, 5:30 pm EDT, North Bethesda, Maryland):⁠⁠https://podnews.net/event/podcaster-visibility-meetup-in-the-dmv⁠⁠Live on YouTube:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://podcastingmorningchat.com/joinus⁠⁠Powered by⁠⁠⁠ ⁠iRonickMedia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ and⁠ ⁠ContentCreatorsAccountant.com⁠⁠Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at:⁠⁠⁠ https://www.podcastingmorningchat.contact/⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠marc@ironickmedia.com⁠Want to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b⁠⁠⁠

In our first Money Mondays episode, led by Ralph Estep Jr., we take a closer look at one of the most common financial habits creators fall into without even realizing it. We explore why it matters, why so many podcasters and content creators put it off, and how a few simple shifts can change the way you think about the business side of your work...Episode Highlights:[01:09] The simple shift that can help separate personal and creator finances using accounts and cards already in place[04:39] The question from Ralph that reveals how easily personal and creator money can get mixed without realizing it[07:26] Why waiting to separate finances “until real money comes in” often creates bigger problems later[08:42] What a 1099 really means for creators and why surprise forms in January can lead to costly mistakes[15:01] The hidden audit risk in Amazon purchases and a smarter way to handle buying gear[18:57] How the IRS evaluates consistency, activity, and even calendar records to determine business vs. hobby status[26:45] The three major issues commingling creates: lost deductions, unclear financial data, and increased legal exposure[31:03] The “tax vault” concept and a practical way to think about paying yourself as a creator[34:33] What to understand about LLCs, including real benefits, real costs, and why forming one isn’t a complete solution[49:25] How to plan for taxes when creator income is inconsistent and constantly changingLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: ⁠⁠www.podcastingmorningchat.com⁠⁠Meet the PMC Cast and Crew:⁠⁠https://podcastingmorningchat.com/people⁠⁠Join The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:⁠⁠www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcasting⁠⁠⁠Book A Free Call With Me: ⁠⁠https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycall⁠⁠Application To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: ⁠⁠https://podcastingmorningchat.com/eval⁠⁠Join us Mondays at 7 AM ET for the Obsession Worthy Podcasts:⁠⁠http://podcastingmorningchat.com/owp/⁠⁠Remember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on ⁠Clubhouse⁠: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcastingmorningchat.com/clubhouse⁠⁠EPC3 Speaker Application:⁠ ⁠https://empoweredpodcasting.com/speakers⁠⁠Podcasters Happy Hour (March 26, 5:30 pm EDT, North Bethesda, Maryland):⁠⁠https://podnews.net/event/podcaster-visibility-meetup-in-the-dmv⁠⁠Ralph’s Money & Tax help link:Free 15‑minute discovery call/help page:https://contentcreatorsaccountant.com/helpmeLive on YouTube:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://podcastingmorningchat.com/joinus⁠⁠Powered by⁠⁠⁠ ⁠iRonickMedia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ and⁠ ⁠ContentCreatorsAccountant.com⁠⁠Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at:⁠ https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/⁠ or ⁠marc@ironickmedia.com⁠Want to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: ⁠https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b⁠

Why do podcast scripts feel stiff, even when you know exactly what you want to say? In this episode, we talk about the difference between writing for the page and speaking for the ear, and why that matters for how you sound. I share simple tips with the PMC cast and crew to help you loosen up, like reading your script out loud, adding pauses and inflection, keeping your wording simple, and using outlines instead of sticking to a word-for-word script. We also get into tools like teleprompters and AI, plus a few easy ways to practice so you can feel more confident and connect better with your audience, and we wrap things up with community wins, celebrating progress, personal milestones, and the reminder to keep showing up and give yourself grace as you grow.Episode Highlights:[00:04] Why podcast scripts sound stiff and what we’ll cover[06:11] Writing for the page vs writing for the ear[08:13] Knowing your message instead of just reading words[11:51] Reading scripts out loud to improve delivery[13:33] Rewriting scripts to match how you actually speak[16:49] Using pauses, pacing, and inflection to sound human[19:11] Marking up scripts for emphasis and natural flow[24:00] Using outlines instead of full scripts for flexibility[32:42] Using AI to turn scripts into conversational delivery[39:30] Weekly wins: celebrating progress, growth, and community[42:18] Giving yourself grace and learning through mistakes[50:42] Personal wins and meaningful moments to close the weekLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: ⁠⁠www.podcastingmorningchat.com⁠⁠Meet the PMC Cast and Crew:⁠⁠https://podcastingmorningchat.com/people⁠⁠Join The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:⁠⁠www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcasting⁠⁠⁠Book A Free Call With Me: ⁠⁠https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycall⁠⁠Application To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: ⁠⁠https://podcastingmorningchat.com/eval⁠⁠Remember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on ⁠Clubhouse⁠: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcastingmorningchat.com/clubhouse⁠⁠EPC3 Speaker Application:⁠ ⁠https://empoweredpodcasting.com/speakers⁠⁠Podcasters Happy Hour (March 26, 5:30pm EDT, North Bethesda Maryland):⁠⁠https://podnews.net/event/podcaster-visibility-meetup-in-the-dmv⁠⁠Marc's Stepson Matthew (Instagram):https://www.instagram.com/matthewbcooks/Marc's Stepson Matthew (TikTok):https://www.tiktok.com/@matthewbcooksLive on YouTube:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://podcastingmorningchat.com/joinus⁠⁠Powered by⁠⁠⁠ ⁠iRonickMedia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ and⁠ ⁠ContentCreatorsAccountant.com⁠⁠Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at:⁠⁠⁠ https://www.podcastingmorningchat.contact/⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠marc@ironickmedia.com⁠Want to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b⁠⁠⁠

In this special Podcasthon episode, we join a global initiative through Podcasthon.org, using podcasting to support charities and nonprofits through meaningful storytelling, and I’m joined by the PMC cast and crew as we each share causes that matter deeply to us. I’m also joined by my best friend Jonah Berger, who shares his experience living with CMT (Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease) and the work being done toward a cure. From honoring loved ones to sharing personal health journeys, we highlight organizations like the Glioblastoma Foundation, Islamic Relief, CMTA, Stand Up To Cancer, and MSAA. Along the way, we also weave in podcasting insights, reminding ourselves that our shows are more than content. They’re a way to create connection, raise awareness, and make a real impact.Episode Highlights:[00:05] Opening and introduction to Podcasthon and today’s global initiative[02:21] What Podcasthon is and how podcasters are participating worldwide[04:01] How the PMC community is supporting charities through a shared page[05:00] Wheel of Jargon: Understanding IAB and why it matters[11:00] Ralph shares a personal story and supports the Glioblastoma Foundation[20:00] A reminder to honor loved ones and take meaningful action[21:03] Junaid highlights Islamic Relief and advocacy organizations[26:09] Wheel of Jargon: What ID3 tags are and why they matter[27:42] Marc introduces CMT and welcomes guest Jonah Berger[30:00] Living with CMT and how it shapes daily life[34:10] Progress toward a cure and the power of collaborative research[41:48] Camp Footprint and building community for kids with CMT[42:46] D.R. shares her husband’s cancer journey and Stand Up To Cancer[48:45] Tim shares his MS journey and support for MSAA[50:00] The impact of sharing stories and supporting causes through podcastingLinks & Resources: Learn more about Podcastthon:⁠ ⁠https://podcasthon.org⁠⁠Here are the charities the team is supporting for Podcasthon: ⁠https://www.podcastingmorningchat.com/charity/Jonah Berger’s book: He Walks Like a Cowboy ⁠https://www.amazon.com/He-Walks-Like-Cowboy-Disability/dp/0595471684/⁠Jonah's Presentation at his local middle school (courtesy of FOX 47):⁠https://www.facebook.com/reel/1326849999266221⁠Junaid's Book: Podcast Relationship Management⁠http://PRMbook.com⁠Junaid's Podcast 'Operating System'⁠https://www.podglue.com/⁠Multiple Sclerosis Association of America (MSAA):⁠https://mymsaa.org/The Podcasting Morning Chat: ⁠www.podcastingmorningchat.com⁠Meet the PMC Cast and Crew:⁠https://podcastingmorningchat.com/people⁠Join The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:⁠www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcasting⁠⁠Book A Free Call With Me: ⁠https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycall⁠Application To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: ⁠https://podcastingmorningchat.com/eval⁠Join us Mondays at 7 AM ET for the Obsession Worthy Podcasts:⁠http://podcastingmorningchat.com/owp/⁠Remember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on ⁠Clubhouse⁠: ⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://podcastingmorningchat.com/clubhouse⁠EPC3 Speaker Application: ⁠https://empoweredpodcasting.com/speakers⁠Podcasters Happy Hour (March 26, 5:30pm EDT, North Bethesda Maryland):⁠https://podnews.net/event/podcaster-visibility-meetup-in-the-dmv⁠Live on YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠http://podcastingmorningchat.com/joinus⁠Powered by⁠⁠ ⁠iRonickMedia.com⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠ContentCreatorsAccountant.com⁠Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at:⁠⁠ https://www.podcastingmorningchat.contact/⁠⁠ or ⁠marc@ironickmedia.com⁠Want to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: ⁠⁠https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b⁠⁠

In this week’s news and commentary episode, we dig into one of the biggest stories in podcasting right now: PodPage’s Bold Acquisition—PodPage acquiring the School of Podcasting, and what that really means for you as a creator. It might sound like just another business move, but there’s a bigger shift happening here toward a more connected podcasting experience where tools, education, and growth all work together. Dave Jackson joins us live to share the heart behind the decision, what changes (and what doesn’t) for members, and how this could help podcasters stay consistent instead of burning out. We also zoom out and talk about where the industry is heading, from Apple leaning harder into video and what that could cost, to new data showing just how effective podcast ads really are, plus updates from YouTube and Spotify. If you’re podcasting right now or thinking about starting, this conversation will help you make sense of where things are headed and what to pay attention to next.Episode Highlights:[00:05] Opening and introduction to today’s news and commentary episode[01:20] Meet the PMC cast and crew + special guest Dave Jackson[02:21] Big announcement: Ralph Estep Jr. steps in as Co-Executive Producer[13:12] PodPage acquires School of Podcasting. What’s really behind the move[14:27] Dave Jackson on retention and why podcasters quit[28:41] Apple Podcasts’ video push and what it could cost creators[31:35] Are platforms building for creators or advertisers?[37:02] Why trust is podcasting’s biggest advantage[42:52] Risks of platform dependence and AI moderation issues[50:44] New AI podcasting tools and the “Canva-ification” of content creationLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podcastingmorningchat.comMeet the PMC Cast and Crew:https://podcastingmorningchat.com/peopleJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcasting⁠Book A Free Call With Me: https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycallApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://podcastingmorningchat.com/evalJoin us Mondays at 7 AM ET for the Obsession Worthy Podcasts:http://podcastingmorningchat.com/owp/Remember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on ⁠Clubhouse⁠: ⁠⁠⁠ https://podcastingmorningchat.com/clubhouseLearn more about Podcastthon: https://podcastthon.orgPodpage: https://podcastingmorningchat.com/podpageEPC3 Speaker Application: https://empoweredpodcasting.com/speakersPodcasters Happy Hour (March 26, 5:30pm EDT, North Bethesda Maryland):https://podnews.net/event/podcaster-visibility-meetup-in-the-dmvEdison Research Study – Podcast Ads Boost Reach Without Extra Spend:https://www.edisonresearch.com/reallocating-ad-dollars-to-podcasts-can-deliver-41-growth-in-reach/Live on YouTube: ⁠http://podcastingmorningchat.com/joinusPowered by⁠ ⁠iRonickMedia.com⁠⁠ and ContentCreatorsAccountant.comPlease note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at:⁠ https://www.podcastingmorningchat.contact/⁠ or ⁠marc@ironickmedia.com⁠ Want to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: ⁠https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b⁠

In this week’s mailbag episode, we get into a question a lot of podcasters wrestle with: can a podcast actually be too conversational? We unpack what people really mean when they say they want their show to feel natural and why the best conversations still need a bit of direction to keep listeners hooked. As we go, we also take on another common concern: whether you can grow a podcast from scratch, and talk honestly about what that journey looks like, why your “why” matters more than numbers early on, and how those first few listeners and simple word of mouth can slowly build something real.Episode Highlights:[00:05] Opening and introduction to today’s mailbag episode[10:00] Mailbag Question #1: Can a podcast be too conversational?[12:30] Why structure still matters, even in relaxed conversations[17:22] The role of the host in guiding the discussion[20:05] How to recognize when a conversation has gone off track[29:44] Practical ways to keep conversations natural but focused[40:51] Audience vs. community. What’s the difference?[45:00] Mailbag Question #2: Can you grow a podcast from scratch?[50:00] Defining your “why” and what success actually means[54:00] The power of word-of-mouth growthLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podcastingmorningchat.comMeet the PMC Cast and Crew:https://podcastingmorningchat.com/peopleJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcasting⁠Book A Free Call With Me: https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycallApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://podcastingmorningchat.com/evalJoin us Mondays at 7 AM ET for the Obsession Worthy Podcasts:http://podcastingmorningchat.com/owp/Support the CMTAhttps://cmtausa.org/Podcaster Happy Hour on 3/26/26 in North Bethesda, MDhttps://podcastingmorningchat.com/epcmarchRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on ⁠Clubhouse⁠: ⁠⁠⁠ https://podcastingmorningchat.com/clubhouseLearn more about Podcastthon:https://podcastthon.orgWashington DC Meetup Details:https://podcastingmorningchat.com/epcmarchLive on YouTube: ⁠http://podcastingmorningchat.com/joinusBrought to you by⁠ ⁠iRonickMedia.com⁠⁠ Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at:⁠⁠ https://www.podcastingmorningchat.contact/⁠⁠ or ⁠marc@ironickmedia.com⁠Want to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: ⁠https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b⁠

In this week’s Obsession Worthy Podcasts series returns and we break down an episode of Search Engine to explore what makes the show so compelling, and what the rest of us can learn from it as podcasters. Using their episode about Anthropic’s Claude AI as our example, we look at how Search Engine pulls listeners in with emotion, builds curiosity by expanding the questions at just the right moments, and uses layered storytelling to keep people engaged from start to finish. Along the way, we unpack how mystery, tension, relatability, and deeper human stakes can make an episode far more memorable and binge-worthy.Episode Highlights:[00:05] Opening and introduction to the Obsession Worthy Podcasts segment[05:27] Jonathan Howard explains the concept behind OWP and the featured podcast[08:44] The host introduces “future nausea,” the uneasy feeling about rapid AI progress[15:58] How polarized opinions shape the public conversation about AI[18:14] A simulation shows Claude choosing blackmail to avoid being deleted[22:00] The deeper question: does AI reason or simply predict patterns[29:51] How human influence and bias shape the responses AI systems generate[33:32] Why an AI company hired a philosopher to help guide ethical behavior[43:48] The motivations behind AI development, from solving big problems to simple curiosity[49:49] Lessons podcasters can learn from the storytelling approach used in the episodeLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podcastingmorningchat.comMeet the PMC Cast and Crew:https://podcastingmorningchat.com/peopleJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcasting⁠Book A Free Call With Me: https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycallApplication To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://podcastingmorningchat.com/evalJoin us Mondays at 7 AM ET for the Obsession Worthy Podcasts:http://podcastingmorningchat.com/owp/Listen to Search Engine’s, Mysteries of Claudehttps://pod.link/1614253637/episode/ZjZkZjU0MDYtOGFhNy0xMWYwLWE5MzEtYzMxMDljOTk4NWQ1 Remember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on ⁠Clubhouse⁠: ⁠⁠⁠ https://podcastingmorningchat.com/clubhouseLearn more about Podcastthon:https://podcasthon.org/aboutLive on YouTube: ⁠http://podcastingmorningchat.com/joinusBrought to you by⁠ ⁠iRonickMedia.com⁠⁠ Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at:⁠⁠ https://www.podcastingmorningchat.contact/⁠⁠ or ⁠marc@ironickmedia.com⁠Want to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: ⁠https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b⁠

What’s the best part of podcasting… and what’s the part nobody warns you about? Today,  we explore the highs and lows that come with running a podcast. This ranges from hosting meaningful conversations to frustrations that show up behind the scenes. You’ll hear stories about common mistakes, the pressure around monetization, the grind of promotion, and the many moving parts that go into producing a show. At the same time, the conversation highlights why so many creators keep showing up behind the mic: the relationships, the growth, and the impact their content can have over time. We also spin the Wheel of Jargon to unpack what “hosting” actually means in podcasting, and we wrap up the week by sharing our wins and celebrating our accomplishments.Episode Highlights: [02:12] Next week preview[09:52] Wheel of Jargon begins[11:06] What a hosting platform actually means[17:00] Best and worst parts of podcasting[18:09] Listener stories and perspectives[26:53] Promotion burnout and sustainability[28:03] The power of an email list[29:28] Keeping up with industry trends[31:11] Paid ads that actually work[33:32] Using audience polls for targeting[38:32] Meetup announcement[40:01] Weekly wins roundupLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcasting⁠Book A Free Call With Me: https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycallJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcasting⁠Application To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U57S-XgoA/viewform?usp=headerPodGlue:www.podglue.com PMC #217 Grow to 100K Downloads on a Budget with Tyler Perry:www.podcastingmorningchat.com/s1e217 Remember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on ⁠Clubhouse⁠: ⁠⁠⁠ https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0w⁠⁠Live on YouTube: ⁠http://podcastingmorningchat.com/joinusBrought to you by⁠ ⁠iRonickMedia.com⁠⁠ Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at:⁠⁠ https://www.podcastingmorningchat.contact/⁠⁠ or ⁠marc@ironickmedia.com⁠Want to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: ⁠https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b⁠

​​So you’ve landed your first sponsor. Now you start thinking… What do they actually want to see from you? Downloads? Listener behavior? Something else entirely? Today, we’re opening the mailbag to tackle a question from one of our very own cohosts, Sid, who wondered what kind of analytics sponsors really care about and how podcasters should present that information to keep the relationship strong. Do downloads matter as much as we think they do? What metrics actually tell the story of your audience? And do sponsors even care about the same numbers podcasters obsess over? We explore what sponsors may want to learn from podcast analytics, what data might be useful to share, and how creators can think about reporting in a way that supports a long-term partnership. We also briefly touch on another question… is there really a difference between a DIY podcaster and an indie podcaster, or is it mostly semantics?Episode Highlights: [02:54] Indie vs. DIY podcasting debate[06:43] What sponsors actually want in analytics reports[13:44] Trackable links, promo codes, and proving ROI[25:35] AI tools for generating editable slide decks[29:47] Apple versus host analytics mismatchLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcasting⁠Book A Free Call With Me: https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycallJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcasting⁠Application To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U57S-XgoA/viewform?usp=headerBuzzSprout Analytics: https://www.buzzsprout.com/blog/apple-podcasts-analyticsOP3: https://op3.dev/Podpage: https://www.podpage.com/?via=ironickmediaRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on ⁠Clubhouse⁠: ⁠⁠⁠ https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0w⁠⁠Live on YouTube: ⁠http://podcastingmorningchat.com/joinusBrought to you by⁠ ⁠iRonickMedia.com⁠⁠ Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at:⁠ https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/⁠ or ⁠marc@ironickmedia.com⁠Want to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: ⁠https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b⁠

Why would Amazon shut down the standalone Wondery app after investing so heavily in podcasting? Today, we look at that headline and what it might signal about how major platforms are rethinking their podcast strategy. If a company like Amazon is shifting direction, it raises important questions about where podcast distribution and monetization may be headed next. Today is news day, and we also discuss growing concerns around Libsyn after reports of technical issues and a declining share of new podcast episodes, which has many podcasters wondering what may be happening behind the scenes at one of the industry’s oldest hosting platforms. Plus, we explore a new AI-powered tool designed to help podcast networks manage analytics, advertising campaigns, and operations, signaling how artificial intelligence is starting to move deeper into the business side of podcasting. Episode Highlights: [03:42] Buzzsprout download benchmarks and what “top 1%” really means[07:43] Completion rate data and first-minute drop-off[10:30] Apple and Spotify top five charts[12:19] Podcasting events roundup[20:18] Business bite: side hustles for creators[27:36] News bites: Netflix viewing patterns and RØDE updates[32:35] Libsyn publishing friction and workflow concerns[36:07] Creator contingency planning[39:19] Jay Shetty leaving iHeart[42:31] Amazon shuts down the Wondery app[46:31] The podcast boom matures: fewer launches, more active shows[52:15] The tiny SEO tagline hack that boosts discoveryLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcasting⁠Book A Free Call With Me: https://calendly.com/ironickmedia/freestrategycallJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcasting⁠Application To Submit Your Show For Evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-Xv6O6lrNPcPJwj3N0Z5Osdl-5kHGz_PiAU45U57S-XgoA/viewform?usp=headerBuzzsprout Global Podcast Stats:https://www.buzzsprout.com/statsBumper:https://www.wearebumper.com/blogPodcasting Made Simple Live: https://www.podmatch.com/eventEmpowered Podcasting Conference:https://empoweredpodcasting.comPodnews:www.podnews.netRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to the podcasting community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on ⁠Clubhouse⁠: ⁠⁠⁠ https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0w⁠⁠Live on YouTube: ⁠http://podcastingmorningchat.com/joinusBrought to you by⁠ ⁠iRonickMedia.com⁠⁠ Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at:⁠ https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/⁠ or ⁠marc@ironickmedia.com⁠Want to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: ⁠https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b⁠