In this month's "Question of the Month," I wanted to explore the discrepancy between Spotify's perceived dominance and the actual listening habits of podcasters. Despite frequent headlines touting Spotify as the number one streaming platform, my personal statistics and community feedback tell a different story. By surveying my audience about their platform preferences, I uncovered that Apple remains the top choice for most listeners, challenging the narrative often presented in media reports about Spotify's market leadership.

Thanks to everyone who chimed in!

Gear Review: HollyLand Lark M2s Wireless Lavalier System

Quick Take:

I was genuinely impressed by the Holly Land Lark M2s - this tiny microphone packs a surprisingly warm sound. At around $150, it's a solid investment for podcasters and content creators.

Key Features:

• Compact wireless lavalier microphone system
• Versatile receiver with USB-C and headphone jack connectivity
• Compatible with phones and recorders (I used my Rodecaster Duo)
• Built-in noise reduction app
• Option to record two mics on separate channels for post-production editing

Pro Tip: Grab this from Sweetwater. They offer:

• Extended warranties
• Killer customer service
• Competitive pricing
• Free shipping (often cheaper than Amazon)
• FREE CANDY<<<<<

Noise Reduction: The app's built-in feature is decent - not perfect, but definitely helpful. Pro move? Set up both mics on separate channels so you can fine-tune your audio in post-production.

Bottom Line: The Lark M2s is a compact, versatile mic system that punches above its weight. Definitely worth checking out for podcasters looking to upgrade their audio game.

Takeaways:

• The new Hollyland Lark M2S microphone sounds surprisingly warm, which totally blew my mind!
• Spotify claims to be the number one podcast platform, but the real stats tell a different tale.
• Charging guests to appear on your podcast? Brace yourself, the FTC has some rules you need to follow!
• Using music in your podcast? Be careful, because Spotify's bots don’t care about your permissions!
• It's always a good idea to double-check the facts you find online, especially from big companies!
• Exercise is tough, but once you get through it, you'll feel so proud of yourself, like you just conquered a mountain!

Links referenced in this episode:

• Hollyland Lark M2S Wireless Lavalier System
• schoolofpodcasting.com
• thehoodratrecap.com
• createartpodcast.com
• findapodcastabout.xyz
• passacls.com
• tkbpodcaststudios.com

So, today I'm diving into the mess that can be podcast burnout. You know, that moment when your favorite hobby morphs into a job you dread? Yeah, we’ve all been there. We're chatting about big names like Marc Maron and others who decided to call it quits and how that’s not just okay, but totally legit.

Spoiler alert: sometimes stepping back is the best move you can make. I’ll sprinkle in some sarcasm and laughs as we explore the absurdity of it all—because let’s face it, if we can’t laugh at our struggles, what’s the point, right?

If you've been thinking about starting a podcast but feel it's too crowded, realize all those podcasters who started back in 2005 might be being pulled in new directions that have them thinking about podcast retirement.

Takeaways:

• Creative projects can sometimes feel like an endless cycle of stress and burnout.
• It's totally okay to step back from podcasting if it stops being fun for you.
• Many successful podcasters have experienced burnout, and it's a common issue in the industry.
• Managing expectations is crucial; don't expect overnight success when building an audience.
• Life changes, like welcoming a new baby, can drastically affect your podcasting ability and energy.
• Always remember: adding responsibilities means subtracting your fun, so be careful what you take on.

Mentioned In This Show

Marc Maron Announces He's Ending the WTF Show

Rob Walch Talks Marc Maron on the Feed

Erik K Johnson End Podcast Talent Coach

YouTuber Tom Scott Says Goodbye 6.5M Subscribers

YouTuber The Game Theorist Says Goodbye 19.6M Subscribers

YouTuber Caylus says goodbye to 18.7M Subscribers

What Makes This Show Ggreat? - Marc Maron Edition sop705

My Spouse Has Dementia Show with Zita Christian

Daniel J. Lewis is BACK!

Clockify Free Time Tracker

More insights at schoolofpodcasting.com/989

Mentioned in this episode:

Starting a podcast can be daunting. Fear of failure, uncertainty about where to begin, and doubts about your abilities can hold you back. But what if you had a guide? The School of Podcasting is here to help you confidently launch, grow, and monetize your podcast. With over 20 years of experience and tons of successful podcasts launched, I'll walk you through every step. From planning to promotion, you're never alone." Learn at your own pace with video courses, join a supportive community, and get unlimited coaching. Say goodbye to fear and hello to success." Start your podcasting journey today...

Ever wonder why some podcasts spread like wildfire while others wither on the vine? Well, it turns out that a whopping 60 to 80% of podcasts are discovered through good old-fashioned word of mouth.

Yeah, that means if your podcast isn’t getting shared, there’s a reason. So, what’s the secret sauce that makes people hit that share button? In this episode, I research the world of shareable content — you know, the kind that makes your friends feel like they need to hear it.

Spoiler alert: it’s all about that emotional connection and delivering value. Plus, I’ll throw in some advice on being a better podcaster and maybe even a better dad. We also take a listen to the Zoom Podtrak P2

Zoom Podtrak P2

Microphones Compatible with the Zoom Podtrak P2

Samson Q2U USB Microphone

Rode Podmic USB

Lean Learning: How to Achieve More by Learning Less from Pat Flynn (audible)

Voice of Greece Podcast

Castahead.net - Podcast Producing and More

Libsyn Ads Removes Limits (please note this IS programatic ads check the CPM)

Ask the Podcast Coach (free podcast consulting)

Pat Flynn on Episode 421

What Makes People Share Question of the Month 2021

Home Gadget Geeks

• Around 60 to 80% of podcasts are found through sharing, so that's a big deal.
• Good content isn't just about being decent; it has to be downright irresistible to share.
• We often share things based on the feels—if it hits us in the feels, we share it.
• To get people to share, your content should be emotionally engaging, practical, and visually appealing.

Mentioned in this episode:

Do You Need a Podcast Coach

Bill Gates, Steve Jobs, Oprah Winfrey, and many others have had COACHES to help them with an outside view to help them shape their content. I will start my 20th year in podcasting and would love to help you follow the best practices of podcasting, and avoid the common mistakes and avoid those steps that lead to burnout.

School of Podcasting

Live Appearances

I'd love to meet you in person, I'm currently coming to July 12th, 20025 Higher Ed Podcon, Chicago, Ill AUGUST 18-21, 2025 Podcast Movement, Dallas, TX. September 26-28, 2005, Empowered Podcasting Conference, Uptown Charlotte, NC For more information and links, click the link below. If you'd like for me to speak at an in-person or online event, go to schoolofpodcasting.com/contact

Today we start with the news of Marc Maron retiring his podcast, and a possible shake up at the New Media Show (two shows with 16+ years). So who will fill their space you?

Bri Leever is a community building strategist at Ember Consulting and host of the show "Dear Bri." I saw her present at a webinar put on by Hearbeat (my favorite community tool) and immediately joined her community (which lead to me asking her on the show).

Full show notes at schoolodposcasting.com/987

Mentioned in the Show:

Ember Consulting

Bri's Community of Community Builders

Heartbeat Community Tool

Circle Community Tool

Mighty Networks

Skool Community Tool

Honeycomb App

Dear Bi Podcast

Circle vs Skool Video

School of Podcasting Community

Takeaways:

• Marc Maron is hanging up his podcasting hat after 16 years, and that's a big deal.
• Having both free and paid communities can actually mess up your growth, who knew?
• If you want a thriving community, you gotta focus on what people actually want, duh!
• Starting a podcast with a small team is totally doable; you don't need a squad of 20.
• Don't be surprised if your free community outshines your paid one; it happens more than you'd think.
• People love talking about themselves, so just ask them questions and you'll be golden.

Mentioned in this episode:

You Have A Message That Needs to Be Heard

You have a message that needs to be shared. Discover the art of podcasting at the School of Podcasting. We teach you to shine a light on your stories, inspiring others one episode at a time. Let your voice be your legacy. Go to www.schoolofpodcasting.com/join

School of Podcasting

Live Appearances

I'd love to meet you in person, I'm currently coming to July 12th, 20025 Higher Ed Podcon, Chicago, Ill AUGUST 18-21, 2025 Podcast Movement, Dallas, TX. September 26-28, 2005, Empowered Podcasting Conference, Uptown Charlotte, NC For more information and links, click the link below. If you'd like for me to speak at an in-person or online event, go to schoolofpodcasting.com/contact

Where...

Adding YouTube to your podcasting game? Well, grab a seat because Thomas Umstadt Jr. is here to share what works and what doesn't. We’re talking about the nitty-gritty of taking your audio-only podcast and slapping it onto the video platform that everyone and their grandma seems to be on.

Thomas recounts his journey from simple audiograms to full-blown video episodes, sharing the highs and lows of his transition. Spoiler alert: it turns out that just tossing your podcast audio onto YouTube won’t cut it. You need to think about titles and thumbnails—yes, those flashy little images that scream ‘click me!’ As he explains, those are your first impressions; if they’re not catchy, your content might as well be invisible.

He dives into the technicalities too, discussing everything from gear and lighting to the importance of having a good backdrop (hello, bookshelves!). Plus, he shares some gold nuggets about audience demographics that might just make you rethink how you approach your content. So whether you’re on the fence about YouTube or just curious about what the fuss is all about, this episode is packed with insights that might just give your podcast the boost it needs.

Novel Marketing.com (Thomas's website and podcast)

Author Update Show

Tube Buddy (YouTube tool that coaches you)

VidIQ (another tool to help you with YouTube)

Elgato Prompter

Pikzel YouTube Thumbnail Maker

1 of 10 YouTube Thumbnail Maker

Captivate and Buzzsprout Media Hosts with Dynamic Content Capabilities

School of Podcasting - Plan, launch, and grow your podcast

• Adding YouTube to your podcast can significantly boost audience engagement and visibility.
• Titles and thumbnails are crucial for YouTube success, unlike in traditional podcasting.
• The first 30 seconds of your video need to grab attention or viewers will bounce.
• Using your phone as a camera can yield better results than expensive gear for video.
• A strong opening is key for YouTube; don't dilly-dally with long intros like in podcasts.
• Experimenting with different content formats can lead to surprising audience growth on YouTube.

Did you get value from this show? You can give some of the value back and say thanks.

Mentioned in this episode:

Live Appearances

I'd love to meet you in person, I'm currently coming to July 12th, 20025 Higher Ed Podcon, Chicago, Ill AUGUST 18-21, 2025 Podcast Movement,...

Today, we are talking about keeping your audience listening after they press play. This starts with an opening hook. To have hooks that grab your audience and make them want to hear your episode, there are some common characteristics:

Relevance: A good hook connects directly to the theme or topic of your episode. It should hint at what’s to come without giving everything away.

Emotional Impact: Evoking curiosity, excitement, or even controversy can create an emotional connection with your audience, prompting them to stay tuned.

Clarity and Brevity: Your hook should be clear and to the point. Complexity can confuse listeners and cause them to lose interest.

Promises Value: Whether it’s information, entertainment, or inspiration, a strong hook promises something valuable to the listener.

All of this relies on you knowing who your target audience is. A hook that works on a business podcast may not work on your gaming show.

Ever wondered why some podcasts just suck you in while others make you want to run for the hills? Well, let’s break it down, shall we? The opening hook of your podcast can make or break your listener retention. You could have the most riveting content planned, but if your intro is as exciting as watching paint dry, good luck keeping anyone around.

We’re talking about how a killer hook can capture attention faster than a cat meme on social media. Dive into the psychology of why people stick around and learn five solid strategies to craft hooks that actually work. Spoiler alert: it’s not just about being clever. It’s about being relevant, emotional, and concise. So, grab your headphones, and let’s unravel the magical art of the podcast hook that’ll have your audience begging for more!

• A killer hook can make or break your podcast's first impression, so choose wisely!
• To keep listeners glued to your podcast, start with something that sparks curiosity and relevance.
• Your opening should promise value; otherwise, listeners might just hit the dreaded 'stop' button.
• Whether it's a shocking fact or a relatable story, your hook needs to resonate with your audience.

• Engaging Questions: Drawing listeners in by voicing their struggles or curiosities
• Personal Anecdotes: Using brief, vulnerable stories that are directly relevant
• Shocking Facts: Leveraging surprising statistics or statements (without clickbait)
• Intriguing Scenarios: Creating hypothetical situations that spark imagination
• Relatable Problems: Addressing common issues faced by the audience

School of Podcasting

Ask the Podcast Coach

Power of Podcasting Network

Podcast Review Show

Podcast Hook Example Cheat Sheet

Audience Survey: schoolofpodcasting.com/survey25

Mentioned in this episode:

What if I told you that most interviews are mind-numbingly boring, and you're probably doing them wrong? Today I interview Tracy Johnson, and after decades in radio and working with countless shows, he's written a book, Mic Drop Moments, that shares the secrets to transforming mediocre conversations into absolute "Didya Hear That?!" moments.

In this episode, we pull back the curtain on selecting guests that will electrify your audience, ask questions that make people lean in, and tell stories that keep listeners hanging on every word. Whether you're a seasoned podcaster or just starting out, what we share will completely change how you approach interviews forever. So if you're ready to stop settling for bland, forgettable conversations and start creating audio magic, hit play right now.

1. Familiarity

- How well-known is the guest to your audience?

- A familiar guest brings built-in interest and recognition

- More famous guests typically make better interview subjects

- Provides an immediate connection for listeners

2. Relevance

- Does the guest's story or background matter to your audience?

- Must align with your podcast's theme and target listeners

- Simply being famous isn't enough if the content doesn't resonate

- The guest should provide value specific to your show's focus

3. Interest/Entertainment

- Can the guest tell a compelling story?

- Ability to be engaging, dynamic, and captivating

- Brings unique perspectives or unexpected narratives

- Makes the host look good by providing memorable content

Aim to have at least two out of three criteria met. If you lose two out of three, the interview will likely be challenging to make interesting. The ultimate goal is to leverage the guest's story to enhance your podcast's entertainment value.

1. Enhance

- Add extra details to make the story more interesting

- Go beyond the basic facts

- Ask questions like "What were you thinking at that moment?"

- Create additional context that wasn't initially present

- Make the story more vivid and engaging

2. Exaggerate

- Slightly amplify the story's impact

- Turn a small moment into a bigger narrative

- Example: A small fish becomes "the biggest catch of the season."

- Create dramatic tension without losing the core truth

- Make the story more memorable and exciting

3. Embellish

- Add creative storytelling elements

- Stage the story for maximum entertainment value

- Take a brief moment and turn it into a full narrative

- Example: A simple backstage conversation becomes an epic ping pong challenge

- Use creative license to make the story more compelling

As audiences crave authenticity, Tracy isn't saying to lie, but you can bring in adjectives that trigger the theater of the mind.

Mic Drop Moments Book

Tracy Johnson Media Website

School of Podcasting

Episode 677 The Ultimate Guide to Hosting and Guesting Podcast Interviews

Money, money, money! Yeah, I know, we’re all rolling our eyes thinking, "Ugh, not another boring finance chat!" But hold onto your wallets, because this isn’t your grandpa’s finance talk.

Our buddy Ray Edwards, a top-notch copywriter, shares a jaw-dropping story about how he made a cool million but ended up in bankruptcy—wait, what? How does that happen?

I spill the beans on my own bankruptcy saga, sharing how emotional decisions can lead us down a slippery slope. And hey, we’re not just here to mope; we’ve got Steve Stewart from the Podcast Editors Academy joining us to sprinkle in some wisdom about putting profit first. Buckle up, because we’re throwing in some sarcastic humor while we unravel the absurdity of our financial choices!

Takeaways:

• Ignoring your finances is like playing with fire while blindfolded—eventually, you'll get burned.
• Being bankrupt after making millions is the ultimate plot twist—stay alert or face the absurdity!
• Don't let emotions rule your financial decisions; logic over feelings keeps the money in your pocket.
• Track every penny if you want to keep your business afloat; otherwise, expect to sink!

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Ray Edwards
• Steve Stewart
• Podcast Editor Academy (get the free download)
• Profit First book
• Novo (get $40 off once qualified)
• Relay
• Wave Apps
• Acorns
• Sofi
• Gordon Firemark
• Ralph Estepp
• Cronometer Fitness Tracker
• School of Podcasting

Mentioned in this episode:

Question of the Month

This question comes from the AMAZING Steve Stewart from the Podcast Editors Academy (see schoolofpodcasting.com/pea and yes that is my affiliate link) and he wants to know what steps, practices, strategies, etc you are doing to speak better (with less, um, you know, like, you know crutch words). I need your answer by July 25th, 2025. Go to schoolofpodcasting.com/question

Question of the Month

Check Out Dave's Newsletter With Behind the Scenes Content

In each issue of Podcasting Observations, I share my thoughts on what is happening in the podcasting space, my latest content, and things that have caught my eye. I also may ask for your opinion. Join the free community

Podcasting Observations

Worry Free Podcasting

Are you ready to take your podcasting dreams to the next level? Look no further than the School of Podcasting. With over 19 years of experience, I’ve helped countless individuals plan, launch, grow, and monetize...