PodCraft by Alitu: Honing the Craft of Podcasting

Imagine a podcaster who has been publishing for a couple of years. Every time they check their stats, the number is the same.They assume they have hit a plateau.So they spend more on marketing. They push harder on promotion. Nothing changes. The number stays flat.What that number does not show is what is happening underneath. New listeners are finding the show. At the same time, existing listeners are drifting away. Growth and churn are cancelling each other out.The show is moving. The metric makes it look stuck.In this episode, we're joined by Dan Misener from Bumper to unpack why download numbers can be misleading, and what better signals actually tell you how your podcast is performing. We also tackle churn head-on. If new listeners are finding your show but not sticking around, we look at what might be driving that drop off and what you can do to change it.The Bumper DashboardColin's tour of the Bumper Dashboard & Podcraft's analyticsHow to Calculate Your Podcast Listen TimeThe 2026 Podcast Launch ChallengePodcraft is brought to you by Alitu and The Podcast Host

Fiction podcasts often hold listeners for longer than non-fiction shows. But what can non-fiction creators learn from this? We break down the simple storytelling tools that keep audiences hooked, including open loops, stronger intros, clearer arcs, and themed seasons. We also highlight some easy wins that improve retention, such as smoother transitions, cleaner audio, and titles that set clearer expectations.We then dive into a detailed review of a history and policy podcast and explore the lessons it offers for growth. Naming clarity, smarter show notes, and better use of a back catalogue all come up as high-impact opportunities. We also look at ways to reach more listeners through collaborations, community spaces, news-reactive episodes, and in-app promotion. The thread throughout is simple. Strengthen retention first, then build reach with structure, consistency, and relevance.MentionedPutting the Past to Work: The History-Policy Podcast at UCLAHow to Record the Perfect Podcast IntroApply to be Featured on Apple PodcastsThe SCALE Podcast Growth FrameworkThe Bumper Dashboard: The Future of Podcast AnalyticsPodcraft is brought to you by Alitu and The Podcast Host

What if monetising a podcast was simpler than the usual laundry list of tactics suggests? A new model called the Three As breaks earning potential into three clear paths: Audience, which includes supporter perks and light adsAuthority, which covers coaching, courses, and specialist servicesAssets, which includes books, products, and affiliate incomeThe aim is to choose the route that fits your show’s size and purpose rather than copy the strategies used by giants.Elsewhere, recent Independent Podcaster survey results show creators splitting into two broad groups. Audio-first shows follow flexible production routines, while video-led podcasts often feel the pressure of weekly uploads from platforms like YouTube. These differences show up in formats, production time, and a growing worry that video’s rise could narrow the types of stories podcasters feel able to make.There is also a look at the event season ahead and how to get more from it. The focus is on going in with clear intentions, using the space to meet potential guests, and treating each venue as a chance to make connections rather than sit through panels all day.The episode ends with practical studio advice. Creating depth behind you, shaping your light, and mixing fixed and angled shots can all lift your visuals without expensive gear. A bit of planning and a thoughtful layout often matter more than the camera you use.Podcraft is brought to you by Alitu and The Podcast Host

In this conversation, Colin sits down with Craig Hewitt, founder of Castos, to discuss the shifting landscape of content creation. Fresh off completing a 100 Days of YouTube challenge, Craig shares why he chose video over podcasting during that time, what he learned about platform growth, and the powerful truths about podcast numbers versus engagement (where podcasting still shines!)They explore the convergence of audio, video, and email platforms, the challenges of monetization in podcasting, how AI is reshaping content workflows (without replacing creators), and why a few hundred engaged podcast listeners might be more valuable than 100,000 YouTube views.GuestCraig Hewitt - Founder of Castos, a podcast hosting platform. Recently completed 100 Days of AI on YouTube, growing from 250 to 11,000 subscribers. Find him at Castos.com or search "Craig Hewitt" on YouTube.Chapter Markers[00:00] Introduction & Catching Up[02:15] Has Podcasting Changed More in the Last Year?[05:30] What is Podcasting in 3-5 Years?[08:45] Craig's 100 Days of YouTube (And No Podcasting)[12:20] The Convergence of Content Platforms[16:00] Product Development: When to Expand vs Focus[20:45] Spotify as a Video Platform[25:30] Exclusive APIs and Platform Access[30:15] What Really Matters in Podcast Software[35:00] The Monetization Challenge[42:30] AI in Content Creation[48:00] Building AI-First Products[52:15] Craig's AI Learnings from 100 Days[56:45] Growing on YouTube: Concept is Everything[62:00] The 800 vs 11,000 Paradox[66:30] Small Audiences, Big RevenueKey TakeawaysPlatform choice matters: Optimize content for one channel rather than trying to make everything work everywhereEngagement beats reach: A few hundred loyal podcast listeners can be more valuable than 100K YouTube views for certain business modelsAI is a tool, not a replacement: It amplifies human capability but requires strategic implementationConcept is king on YouTube: Title, thumbnail, and mass appeal trump production qualityPodcasting works best for: Coaches, consultants, and anyone with high-ticket offerings and existing audiencesThe industry irony: Even podcast hosting companies prioritize YouTube and blogs over their own podcastsLinks & ResourcesCastos: https://castos.comAlitu: https://alitu.com (podcast editing and hosting)The Podcast Host: https://thepodcasthost.comCraig's YouTube: Search "Craig Hewitt Castos"Creator Hooks: https://creatorhooks.com (mentioned for title/thumbnail generation)Notable Quotes"For certain types of people in certain situations, a podcast is by far the most valuable kind of marketing real estate they can have. The rub is that's not everyone or even most people." - Craig Hewitt"If you have 1,000 podcast listeners, you might convert 500 of them, but if you have 10,000 YouTube watchers, you might still only convert 500 of them." - Colin GraySubscribe to PodCraft for more conversations about running a successful podcast in today's evolving content landscape.

Our Indie Podcasters Report shows that once production goes past six hours, audio-only creators are the ones spending the most time in the edit. But why?The answer goes beyond workflow. Audio culture has always valued clean mixes, careful pacing, and detailed sound design, so creators tend to polish every moment. Video makers often move faster by embracing jump cuts and a simple top, tail, publish routine.That doesn't mean video is the easier path. It brings its own challenges, from codec issues and lighting problems to huge file sizes that slow everything down.In the end, this isn't a contest between formats. It is about understanding the differences so you can choose the approach that suits your skills, your time, and your goals.We also put our heads together to try and flesh out a USP for Colin's new podcast, discuss gear-related accessibility issues, and look ahead to the upcoming Black Friday deals season. Also MentionedAlitu: The Podcast MakerTellaaiCarouselsGensparkBlack Friday for PodcastersSeedpace Kids Audio PlayerThe Podcraft Academy

Ever feel like your podcast has started to sound scripted rather than conversational? When the spark fades, it’s time to shake things up. This episode explores how relaxing your format can reignite creativity and flow, why over-scripting kills energy, and how a looser, more natural approach helps you sound sharper and enjoy recording again.We also dig into some practical podcasting essentials, from Apple’s new AI-generated chapter markers and what they mean for listener engagement, to one of the most powerful habits you can build: listening back to your own episodes. It’s uncomfortable, but it’s the fastest way to improve your delivery, catch unnoticed habits, and sound more confident every time you hit record.Mentioned Independent Podcaster Report 2025Crossing the 100-Download Mark: What Successful Indies Do DifferentlyPodcast Chapter MarkersBest Podcast FormatsThe Podcraft AcademySend Us a Voicemail

On a recent episode of Podcraft, Neale James of The Photowalk talked about an email he once received from a listener who was housebound due to illness. They wrote that they could no longer go out for walks but hoped their life might change one day. For now, the sounds of Neale’s walks, even his grumbling at passing planes, reminded them that there was still a world out there.“That message taught me something important,” Neale said. “In a world that is increasingly shaped by AI, authenticity matters. People value the real and unpolished moments more than we sometimes realise.”'Walkcasting' wasn’t the only reason Neale was able to publish 500 episodes in five years and turn his podcast into a full-time living, but it played a big part.Even if you are not chasing those kinds of milestones, there is a lesson here. In an era where thousands of fully AI-generated shows flood podcast apps each week, authenticity and human connection have never mattered more. So how can a new podcaster stand out in all that noise?Neale’s story says a lot about why walkcasting resonates with so many people. There’s something special about hearing someone talk while they’re moving through the world. It feels real, unfiltered, and human. If you’ve never tried recording this way before, here are six reasons to give it a go.#1 Authentic ConnectionWalkcasts feel more like a conversation than a broadcast. The rhythm of footsteps, the background sounds, and the unpolished tone create a sense of presence, as if you’re right there with the host. Little imperfections, such as a breeze or a passing car, add warmth and texture, reminding listeners they’re sharing a genuine moment with a real person.That sense of authenticity does more than make a walkcast sound real; it also deepens the emotional bond between host and listener. The gentle movement and surrounding atmosphere make it easy to imagine walking alongside someone. Many listeners find this kind of audio comforting and companionable, especially when they’re out on their own walks or can’t get out for one themselves.#2 More natural, spontaneous thinkingWalking often sparks fresh ideas and clearer expression. It’s easier to talk freely when you’re moving instead of staring at a microphone in a still, silent room. That freedom often leads to more thoughtful, engaging moments, giving listeners a sense of the host thinking out loud rather than reading from a script.#3 Low friction, low pressureA walkcast takes very little setup. You don’t need a studio or expensive gear, so you can record whenever inspiration strikes. Since it’s meant to sound relaxed, there’s less pressure to polish every word. That simplicity means you can record and publish more often, keeping your connection with listeners alive.#4 Cost-effective productionYou can make a walkcast with nothing more than a smartphone and a small microphone. You don’t need expensive equipment or complex software, which makes it an easy way for anyone to try podcasting. And because you can record anywhere, it’s easy to capture ideas as they happen instead of waiting for the perfect setup.#5 Distinctive soundWalkcasts stand out because they feel so human. The unique mix of your voice, the pace of your walk, and the sounds around you can become part of your signature style. In an age of slick production and AI-generated content, that lived-in authenticity makes you sound unmistakably yourself.#6 Encourages mindfulness & healthy habitsRecording while walking is good for both body and mind. It turns screen time into fresh air and movement, helping to improve focus and lift mood. The slower rhythm of a walkcast encourages a calmer, more mindful approach to creating content. It offers a gentle alternative to the fast-paced world of digital media.Walkcast Tools, Equipment, & SoftwareIf you’re already reaching for your coat and lacing your shoes, brilliant. Make the most of that spark before the weather changes its mind.But you might suddenly worry that you don’t have the right gear or software for a walkcast. The good news is that you probably do. Neale records straight into his smartphone with no external mic. Phone audio has come a long way in recent years, and yours will likely do just fine.If it is calm outside or you tend to walk in sheltered spots like woodlands, you are good to go. It is worth adding a small windjammer for next time, though, as it will keep your audio clean on breezier days when the trees are dancing. If you are worried about what to say, a small notepad with 3-5 bullet points is enough to prompt you if you get stuck. If you head out with pages of detailed notes, you might be better off staying behind the desk.Your phone already has a built-in voice notes or voice memos app, and that's all you need to capture your recordings. You can buy or download other recording apps with extra features, but those are optional rather than essential.Remember, one of the biggest benefits of walkcasting is how simple it is to set up, so keep things as minimalist as possible. You can always add or adjust later, but don't put off your first recording.Summary: Reasons to Try WalkcastingIf you can get out for a walk and record even one episode, I’d encourage you to give it a try. At worst, you'll get your steps in for the day.Think of walkcasting as calling a friend while on the move. A good starting point is to share a few reflections or insights on your last episode or interview. You'll quickly get a feel for what works.Anecdotally, every walkcasting podcaster I have spoken to says those episodes get the most positive feedback. There is a good chance your listeners will feel the same way, so grab your coat and start recording!

Ever wondered what it’s really like to grow a podcast while living off-grid and travelling full-time? Cara and James from Kerouac’s Cruising share how they’ve turned life on the road into a show about freedom, mindset and self-discovery. From dodgy internet connections to finding their voice as creators, they talk openly about what’s worked, what hasn’t, and how they’ve built a loyal audience one mile at a time.It’s a story about persistence as much as podcasting – learning new skills, fighting imposter syndrome, and embracing the slow, steady growth that comes with authenticity. If you’ve ever questioned whether to keep going with your show, or wondered how to make deeper connections with listeners, this chat offers practical insight and a healthy dose of encouragement.Also MentionedAlitu: The Podcast MakerScoreAppCould short-form video clips cannibalise podcasters' real audiences? Rephonic's 3D audience graph

Have you ever thought about publishing a report in your niche? A “state of the industry” piece that delivers fresh data, insights, and analysis to your audience.Original research can position you as an authority while sparking conversation, attracting media coverage, and opening new opportunities.But gathering and reporting data is both art and science, and common mistakes can quickly undermine your work.Fortunately, we’re joined by Tom Webster of Sounds Profitable, one of the most trusted voices in podcast research. With more than 30 years of experience, Tom shares practical advice on audience research and presenting original data. Whether you are planning a full industry report or simply running an audience survey, this conversation will help you avoid common pitfalls and prepare for success before writing your first question.Here are some of Tom’s key insights from our chat:Research Fuels Creativity“It’s always bothered me that people viewed the research and data side of things as not creative, when actually what it gives you is constraints. And constraints are really the key ultimately to creativity.”Far from being dry or restrictive, data gives you the boundaries that spark innovative thinking. By knowing how your audience reacts, you can sharpen your message, test new angles, and create with greater confidence.Ask Better Questions“Writing a question is one of those things that everybody thinks they can do and almost nobody does it well, because it requires a really bizarre way of thinking.”Good research starts with good questions, but survey design is a skill in itself. A poorly phrased question can confuse your audience or skew your results beyond usefulness.“Don’t start writing any questions until you’ve had conversations with listeners. Those chats don’t give you the final answers, but they show you what you should ask about.”Begin with real conversations - virtual coffees, quick calls, or informal chats. Use your audience’s own words to shape your survey options, ensuring the language resonates with them rather than sounding like a form filled out by a stranger.“If you ask a question and you don’t know what you would do with the result of any of the answers, don’t ask the question. Don’t waste people’s time.”This is the ultimate filter. Every question in your survey should serve a purpose. If you don’t know how you’ll act on the response, cut it.Research to Know vs. Research to Show"Broadly, there’s two kinds of research in anything. There’s research to show and there’s research to know. And I like to specialize in research to know."So what's the difference?“I would often be asked by people, I want to do a survey that shows this. I want to do a survey that shows that this product approach that our company uses is actually the best. That’s research to show. And I always tell people, be prepared not to get the answers you like.”True authority comes from being curious, not from trying to validate a pre-set agenda. If your findings surprise you, lean into that."If the research comes back credible, without obvious flaws, and it contradicts your original hypothesis, the best thing you can do is document it honestly. Share the story: explain what you expected, why you thought the outcome would be different, and then walk people through the actual findings. Reflect on what surprised you and what might have made the difference. That's the essence of thought leadership."Audiences and peers will respect you far more if you publish results that challenge assumptions, even your own.“…if you can’t tell a story with a particular data slide, then don’t include it. And that’s not necessarily cherry picking, that’s just this did not come back as an interesting finding.”Not every data point belongs in your final report. Great reporting is about focus: highlight what tells a meaningful story, and don’t overload your audience with filler.Be Transparent“The magic word is respondents. You can’t say ‘audiences say this,’ but you can say ‘53% of respondents said this.’ You’re never going to go wrong there.”Every survey has its limitations. Maybe your responses came from a mailing list, or from people who clicked a link in your podcast notes. That’s fine - just be clear about it. Transparency builds trust, while over-claiming erodes credibility."You don't have to denigrate your approach. You don’t have to talk yourself down. I’m just a big fan of just being very clear about what you did. Just tell them what you did."A simple "Methodology" paragraph in your report will do the trick. No need to get granular with the details, but what were the places, platforms or methods you focused on to collect responses?“…if you have a study that has 500 respondents, I think it’s just fine to say men say this and women say that. I think it’s probably just fine to say that 55 plus says this and 18 to 34 says that. But actually look at the number of men 18 to 34 in your study… you’re in the low double digits, right? And that’s where you want to be very, very careful.”In other words, don’t slice your sample so thin that the numbers stop being meaningful. Sometimes it’s better to give raw counts than percentages when subgroups are small.And... Iterate!“…one of the things that it’s really difficult to do in a single survey is report a correlation… I think what you can say is this sample did this and this. And here’s the key, if you’re a curious person and you want to get better, is you iterate. The next time you do a survey, you ask about that correlation specifically, you make it specific and then you see, okay, that hypothesis was right. It’s a scientific method.”Don’t try to force causation out of one dataset. Treat each survey as a stepping stone in a longer journey of discovery. If you can build on your data, you'll begin to spot interesting patterns and trends.A huge thanks to Tom for sharing his insights and experience. SoundsProfitable.com is the main hub for keeping up with his work in the podcasting space!Also MentionedAlitu: The Podcast MakerThe Audience is Listening - Tom's BookScoreApp

How do you keep a podcast going long enough to reach 500 episodes?Most shows fade away after a handful of recordings, but The Photowalk has just passed a huge milestone. This week, I’m joined by its host, Neale James, to explore what it really takes to stay consistent, build a community, and even turn a passion project into something sustainable.Read the full blog post on this too, here.Neale shares:Why showing up every day matters more than waiting for inspirationHow listener nicknames, mailbags and “the other listener” helped build a loyal communityThe role authenticity plays – including leaving in planes overhead and barking dogsLessons carried over from his BBC radio career into podcastingHow he’s pieced together monetisation with Patreon, sponsors, mentoring and photo toursIf you’ve ever wondered how to keep your podcast alive and enjoyable well beyond launch, Neale’s story is packed with lessons you can take straight into your own show.Also MentionedAlitu: The Podcast MakerScoreApp

Do you think launching a podcast means buying lights, cameras, and spending hours editing? In this episode, Becky Pierson Davidson (Build With Becky) shows why none of that is necessary. Her short, audio-only episodes feel like voice notes from a smart friend, each one sharing a single tip to help community-driven businesses thrive.Becky explains how she keeps her process simple and sustainable, from idea to published episode in under 15 minutes. She shares why this straightforward style resonates with her audience, how it has led to new clients, and the role of storytelling, newsletters, and small conversations in building community.Becky's websiteAlitu: The Podcast MakerScoreApp

Have you ever wondered how to turn loyal listeners into paying customers without feeling like you’re forcing the sale? In this episode, we explore practical ways to make that leap, from using dynamic ads wisely to weaving your own products and services naturally into your content. It’s all about adding value first and showing how what you offer can genuinely help.We also chat about some of the bigger questions shaping podcasting right now. Should algorithms play a bigger role in helping people discover new shows, or do they risk limiting variety? Should you add a picture of yourself to your podcast cover art? And on a lighter note, we share how swapping a standard planning meeting for a walk outdoors has boosted our energy, creativity and focus.MentionedAlitu: The Podcast MakerThe Podcraft AcademyAre Algorithms Good for Podcasting?Micro-Speak Plus Accessible Recorder ReviewShould You Include Your Photo in Your Cover Art?The Truth About Audio-Only Podcasts in 202515 Editing Tips From 15 YearsShort-Form Video Clips Could Cannibalise Podcasters' Real Audiences

Can a podcast rooted in one city or neighbourhood really matter to listeners halfway across the world? Or should hyperlocal shows focus purely on the people right on their doorstep?In this episode, we are joined by Cody from the Community Build Up podcast. Together, we dig into the tension between going deep on local stories and widening the lens to reach a bigger audience. You’ll hear how podcasters are using place-based content to grow loyal followings, why a global reach isn’t always the right goal, and how you can decide what works best for your own show. If you’ve ever wondered whether to keep things close to home or aim for international ears, this one’s for you.

What does it take to keep a podcast sustainable while still growing your audience? In this live coaching episode of Podcraft, Colin and Matthew sit down with Ellie and Will, hosts of Lively Minds: The UK Mental Health Podcast. Together, they explore the origins of the show, the challenge of carving out a unique voice in a crowded mental health space, and why clarity around their mission matters so much. Ellie and Will share how their project grew out of conversations during lockdown and why they wanted to go beyond surface-level wellbeing advice to have deeper, more nuanced discussions around mental health.The conversation also digs into practical strategy, from balancing consistency with sustainability to experimenting with shorter co-hosted or solo episodes. Colin and Matthew share ideas for authentic audience growth without social media overwhelm, creative approaches to collaboration, and sustainable ways to explore monetisation through community support or aligned partnerships. Packed with encouragement and practical insights, this session shines a light on what it really takes to sustain a meaningful podcast for the long term.

How do you turn your podcast audience into paying members? In this episode, Colin talks with Mike Morrison from Membership Geeks about the strategies podcasters can use to build successful memberships.You’ll learn how to choose the right model for your show, whether that’s creating outcomes, fostering mastery, building connection, or offering resources. Mike shares real examples of podcasters who have grown six-figure memberships, explains why content alone is no longer enough, and reveals how to keep members engaged for the long term.If you're in or near the UK, be sure to check out Retain Live 2025, which is taking place in Newcastle on the 23rd and 24th of September!And if you want one resource to help you start up a membership, try The Membership Roadmap. This is Mike's full guide to planning and launching a successful membership.

What can three years of data really tell us about how podcasts grow? In this episode, Jeremy Enns from the Podcast Marketing Academy unpacks the latest Podcast Marketing Trends report, exploring why growth is slowing for big shows but accelerating for independents, the growing role of video in podcasting, and whether social media really moves the needle. The discussion also covers the pull of algorithms, the power of strong show concepts, and how newsletters fit into a sustainable growth strategy. If you want clear insights on what actually works in podcast marketing today, this is the conversation to hear.Also MentionedThe RACE Framework: How to grow a podcast WITHOUT social mediaAlitu: The ultimate podcast maker softwarePodcraft Pointers: Weekly podcasting tips, tools, and resources

Indy is creating a podcast for his online gardening club, Tender Shoots, aimed at listeners aged 65 to 100. His mission is to make the experience simple, welcoming, and accessible. No technical headaches, just great gardening advice.The challenge is balancing ease of use with modern podcasting features like chapter images and detailed show notes. Indy is tackling this by streamlining the subscription process and guiding members on how to use podcast apps. The goal is to offer an enjoyable and educational experience tailored to older gardening enthusiasts, without letting the tech get in the way.Looking for support or coaching in your own podcasting ventures? Head on over to thepodcasthost.com/help and tell us what you need!

There is no shortage of potential income streams for your podcast. But rather than telling you all the things you could try, how about some real-world case studies from ten successful independent podcasters?Our recent survey suggested that only 1 in 4 indies monetize their content, despite the majority of them wanting to build some income streams.So, on this episode of Podcraft, we’re going to dig into the monetization methods and strategies that have actually worked for our IndiePod Legends, as well as the many that haven’t!The aim here is to show that while some revenue streams are a good fit for some, they don’t work so well for others. We’ll also answer questions like:WHEN should you try to monetize?What are some great on-ramps for smaller podcasts?Can monetizing your content hamper your creativity?The PodcastsThe Joy of CruisingWild for ScotlandTravel N Sh!tBoard Game Design LabShe Well ReadFighting ThroughLush LifeThe Mindful Marketing PodcastI Should Be Writing

Podcasting isn’t easy, but it doesn’t have to be complicated.Figuring out who you want to reach and how you’ll serve them is hard work, but it’s the kind that truly moves the needle.In 2025, we risk losing sight of that north star. Too often, clarity is traded for trends, and purpose is swapped for perceived expectations. Stay focused. The best podcasts still begin by serving real people, not chasing the algorithm.On this episode, I'm joined by Rachel Corbett, who brings a wealth of podcasting experience to the table. We discuss some recent data collected through regular polls in our Podcraft Pointers newsletter. Then, we catch up on the latest tools, tactics, and techniques that are working well for us right now.Key Talking PointsThe "Podcasting" Name Debate83% of surveyed indie podcasters believe the term "podcast" hasn't outlived its usefulnessIndustry voices with big profiles are pushing for rebranding, but thousands of creators prefer keeping the termComparison made to radio shows that also stream video - they don't stop being called "radio shows"Major platforms (YouTube, Spotify, Apple, CNN) still use the term "podcast"Video vs. Audio-Only ContentMany new podcasters feel overwhelmed by video expectations and delay starting their showsVideo doubles workflow time and adds technical complexity (lighting, makeup, outfit changes for batch recording)Consistency matters more than video for podcast successRisk of creative monoculture - video favours simple chat show formats over inventive audio formats like dramas and documentariesMonetisation Challenges with VideoDynamic ad serving (industry standard) doesn't work on YouTube or Spotify's cached video feedsForces return to baked-in ads, creating same problems the industry solved years agoCuts off major monetisation channels for creators heavily dependent on SpotifyPlatform Control IssuesGoogle pushed video podcasts on YouTube for monetisation reasons, not creator benefitSpotify requires opt-in for RSS distribution, creating discovery barriersPlatforms can change algorithms overnight, affecting reachThe Value of Audio-First Content91% of surveyed podcasters believe spoken word audio should be championed alongside videoAudio provides escape from screen time and fits seamlessly into daily activitiesPodcasting originally succeeded as an antidote to screen addictionLong-form, relationship-building content vs. addictive 6-second hook cultureAI and Workflow ToolsChatGPT valuable for idea generation and content planning, not wholesale content creationAdobe Enhance effective for audio cleanupAI clipping tools not yet reliable for video editingCanva increasingly useful for quick design and video creationEquipment and SetupMany experienced podcasters stick with reliable, familiar gear for yearsWireless lavalier mics making location recording less intimidating for guestsAI audio cleanup tools reducing need for perfect recording environmentsIndustry ComplexityPodcasting has become significantly more complex compared to simpler early daysMultiple platform considerations creating workflow complicationsNeed to balance innovation with accessibility for new creators

Tomas Loucky, better known as Tommen, is an expert in growing an audience on LinkedIN, and has been growing his Podcast 'Produced By' there for the past year. With over 20,000 followers, he joins Colin to talk about building a personal brand, repurposing podcast content, and finding great guests through LinkedIn. They dig into how to strike the right balance between personal and business-focused posts, and why authenticity and experimentation are key to growing an audience.Check out Tomas's podcast Produced By with Tommen, along with his other channels and projects, right here.