"Just be yourself because it’s only you that can do that."

Niall Mackay conducts an in-depth audit of Linda Vo's podcast "Inspired by Success". Linda, an entrepreneur with an inspiring backstory, shares her podcasting journey and receives valuable feedback on her show's audio quality, content structure, and overall presentation.

Niall provides actionable advice on various aspects of podcasting, from equipment choices to content delivery. He emphasizes the importance of audio quality, personal branding, and strategic call-to-actions. Linda, receptive to feedback, gains insights on niching down her content, improving audio techniques, and enhancing her YouTube presence. This episode is a goldmine for both new and experienced podcasters looking to refine their craft.

Key Takeaways:

• Introduce yourself and your credentials at the beginning of each episode
• Use dynamic microphones for better audio quality, especially in non-studio environments.
• Make YouTube videos more dynamic by changing camera angles every 30-60 seconds
• Focus on one clear call-to-action that supports your business goals
• Balance interview episodes with solo episodes to showcase your expertise

Chapters and Timestamps:
00:03:10 - Equipment and editing process
00:06:50 - Podcast niche and unique selling point
00:10:30 - Goals and lessons of the podcast
00:14:00 - Podcast audit: Hook and intro feedback
00:18:20 - Importance of self-introduction
00:23:10 - YouTube video dynamics
00:24:20 - Audio quality and microphone choices
00:27:40 - Balancing guest and host content
00:29:30 - Call-to-action strategy
00:31:40 - Final thoughts and improvements

Save Frustration. And time!
Let my team and I save you the time and frustration it takes to edit a podcast. From start to finish, we can help you share your story with the world with minimum fuss and cost. – Niall Mackay, The Podcast Guy
Audio Episodes Edited for ONLY $27! Save $127!!

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"There's no perfect portion of the podcast that you need to get clipped, try something else if it doesn't hit the right demographic."

Niall Mackay sits down with Arielle Nissinblatt, Community Marketing Manager at Descript, to discuss the evolution of podcast editing and the growing importance of video content in podcasting. Arielle shares her journey in the podcasting industry, from starting a podcast recommendation newsletter to her current role at Descript.

The conversation delves into the transformative impact of Descript on podcast editing, particularly its text-based audio transcription service and recent transition to video-based editing. Niall and Arielle explore the significance of creating short video clips for social media promotion and the relationship between these clips and podcast listenership. They also discuss upcoming features in Descript, including the integration with Squadcast for seamless remote recording and editing.

Key Takeaways:

• Descript's text-based audio transcription revolutionized podcast editing
• The transition to video-based editing in Descript changed everything for podcasters
• Creating short video clips is crucial for social media promotion and brand awareness
• Video clips may not directly convert to podcast listeners, but they serve different marketing purposes
• Descript's B-roll feature adds dynamism to podcast videos effortlessly

Save Frustration. And time!
Let my team and I save you the time and frustration it takes to edit a podcast. From start to finish, we can help you share your story with the world with minimum fuss and cost. – Niall Mackay, The Podcast Guy
Audio Episodes Edited for ONLY $27! Save $127!!

Need a stunning new logo for your brand? Or maybe a short animation?
Whatever you need, you can find it on Fiverr.
I’ve been using Fiverr for years for everything from ordering YouTube thumbnails, translation services, keyword research, writing SEO articles to Canva designs and more!

Book a call now!

These are the programs the Seven Million Bikes Podcasts uses. These are affiliate links so they will give us a small commission, only if you sign up , and at no extra cost to you! You'll be directly supporting Seven Million Bikes Podcasts too.
NordVPN | Descript | Buzzsprout | Fiverr |

"One of the most difficult things about podcasts or making podcasts for YouTube is they're generally not that dynamic."

Niall Mackay discusses the age-old debate of podcaster versus YouTuber. As a podcast producer and coach, Niall shares his insights on the pros and cons of both mediums, drawing from his personal experience and industry knowledge.

Niall begins by discussing the unique charm of podcasting as an audio-only medium, highlighting its ease of production and intimate connection with listeners. He then explores the visual appeal and discoverability advantages of YouTube, while also addressing the challenges each platform presents. Throughout the episode, Niall offers valuable tips for content creators looking to maximize their reach and engagement across both podcasting and YouTube.

Key Takeaways:

• Podcasts have higher listener engagement, with 60-80% of listeners typically finishing an episode
• YouTube videos have lower engagement rates, with 20-40% considered good
• Podcasts are easier to produce but face challenges with discoverability
• YouTube offers better discoverability and monetization opportunities
• Creating content for both platforms can be a winning strategy

Save Frustration. And time!
Let my team and I save you the time and frustration it takes to edit a podcast. From start to finish, we can help you share your story with the world with minimum fuss and cost. – Niall Mackay, The Podcast Guy
Audio Episodes Edited for ONLY $27! Save $127!!

Need a stunning new logo for your brand? Or maybe a short animation?
Whatever you need, you can find it on Fiverr.
I’ve been using Fiverr for years for everything from ordering YouTube thumbnails, translation services, keyword research, writing SEO articles to Canva designs and more!

Book a call now!

These are the programs the Seven Million Bikes Podcasts uses. These are affiliate links so they will give us a small commission, only if you sign up , and at no extra cost to you! You'll be directly supporting Seven Million Bikes Podcasts too.
NordVPN | Descript | Buzzsprout | Fiverr |

Niall Mackay shares his top 10 tips for optimizing your editing workflow with Descript. Having built a business around the powerful software, Niall is a true Descript master.

His advice covers everything from using AI tools like Studio Sound and filler word removal, to leveraging templates and editing video. Niall emphasizes the importance of quality audio, stating "It hurts my soul when I hear a podcast with terrible audio. Good quality audio is more important than good content."

While praising Descript's capabilities, he also provides key limitations and best practices. "You cannot edit video the same as audio," he cautions on adjusting word gaps.

Whether new to Descript or a seasoned vet, this presentation offers invaluable tips from an expert podcaster and editor. Don't miss Niall's wealth of knowledge!

Drawing from his extensive experience, Niall provides valuable insights and practical advice for podcasters of all levels.

Tip 1: Use Studio Sound with Limiter/Compressor and Adobe Enhance
- Studio Sound can vastly improve poor quality audio with one click
- Add a limiter and compressor first to smooth out volume spikes
- Run audio through Adobe Enhance after Studio Sound for near-studio quality

Tip 2: Analyze and Remove Mic Bleed
- Descript can detect and highlight mic bleed for easier removal
- Change track volume before cutting to avoid affecting entire track

Tip 3: Edit Transcripts and Waveforms Together
- Editing the transcript allows easy restructuring of content
- But watch for transcript/audio mismatches and edit both views

Tip 4: Use Filler Word Removal Judiciously
- Can automatically strip filler words like "ums" and "uhs"
- But review to avoid awkward cuts, especially with non-native speakers

Tip 5: Shorten Word Gaps Carefully
- Can tighten slow speech by reducing pauses
- But don't cut too tight - 1 second max is recommended

Tip 6: Create Templates for Intros/Outros
- Build reusable templates to save time on repeated elements
- Remember to save templates and set them up early

Tip 7: Edit Video Smartly
- Descript has powerful video editing capabilities
- Use clapping to easily sync separate audio/video tracks
- Mute rather than delete filler words for smoother video

Tip 8: Leverage AI Tools
- Explore AI-generated content

Save Frustration. And time!
Let my team and I save you the time and frustration it takes to edit a podcast. From start to finish, we can help you share your story with the world with minimum fuss and cost. – Niall Mackay, The Podcast Guy
Audio Episodes Edited for ONLY $27! Save $127!!

Need a stunning new logo for your brand? Or maybe a short animation?
Whatever you need, you can find it on Fiverr.
I’ve been using Fiverr for years for everything from ordering YouTube thumbnails, translation services, keyword research, writing SEO articles to Canva designs and more!

Book a call now!

These are the programs the Seven Million Bikes Podcasts uses. These are affiliate links so they will give us a small commission, only if you sign up , and at no extra cost to you! You'll be directly supporting Seven Million Bikes Podcasts too.
NordVPN | Descript | Buzzsprout | Fiverr |

"As soon as you start doing something for money, whether you like it or not. It's gonna change."

Podcasting expert and host of Smarter Podcasting Niall Mackay is interviewed by Samantha an AI Voice powered by ChatGPT.

Niall shares his journey from being an avid podcast listener to becoming a successful podcaster himself. He candidly discusses the challenges of podcasting, strategies for attracting and retaining an audience, and the future of the industry.

Niall's wealth of experience and practical advice make this a must-listen for aspiring and experienced podcasters alike.

Niall delves into the transition from hobby to profession, emphasizing how money changes the dynamics of podcasting. He also explores the importance of consistency, authenticity, and community-building in establishing a dedicated following.

Additionally, Niall shares his thoughts on the impact of video integration and offers monetization strategies for podcasters.

Key Takeaways:
- Appreciate the time commitment required for podcasting, and consider outsourcing tasks like editing to save time.
- Consistency and being true to yourself are crucial for building a dedicated audience.
- Engage with your audience where they are, and provide value beyond just promoting your episodes.
- Sponsorships and Patreon are viable monetization strategies, but don't expect quick riches from podcasting.
- Video integration is the future of podcasting, but audio should remain the primary focus.

Save Frustration. And time!
Let my team and I save you the time and frustration it takes to edit a podcast. From start to finish, we can help you share your story with the world with minimum fuss and cost. – Niall Mackay, The Podcast Guy
Audio Episodes Edited for ONLY $27! Save $127!!

Need a stunning new logo for your brand? Or maybe a short animation?
Whatever you need, you can find it on Fiverr.
I’ve been using Fiverr for years for everything from ordering YouTube thumbnails, translation services, keyword research, writing SEO articles to Canva designs and more!

Book a call now!

These are the programs the Seven Million Bikes Podcasts uses. These are affiliate links so they will give us a small commission, only if you sign up , and at no extra cost to you! You'll be directly supporting Seven Million Bikes Podcasts too.
NordVPN | Descript | Buzzsprout | Fiverr |

In this episode of Smarter Podcasting, host Niall Mackay talks with Erin and John, a husband-and-wife duo behind the Connect-Empower Podcast. They discuss the challenges of starting a podcast, the importance of quality equipment and editing, and the commitment required to produce a consistent show.

Erin and John share their journey from initially thinking podcasting would be as easy as hitting record on a phone to realizing the complexities involved, such as editing, hosting, distribution, and promotion. They highlight the value of Niall's guidance in navigating the technical aspects and overcoming common pitfalls like not hitting record or talking over each other.

Throughout the conversation, Niall emphasizes the importance of producing high-quality audio, staying consistent, and focusing on connecting with a niche audience rather than appealing to the masses. He also shares insights from his own podcasting experience, including the surprising growth of his older shows due to their evergreen content.

Key Takeaways:

- Podcasting requires a significant time commitment, often 8-10 hours per episode when accounting for all tasks involved.
- Investing in quality equipment and editing skills is crucial for producing a professional-sounding show.
- Consistency is key, even if it means releasing episodes less frequently or in seasons.
- Focus on connecting with your target audience rather than seeking mass appeal.
- Evergreen content can continue to attract new listeners for years after its release.

"Imagine if every week those amount of people were in a room listening to what you have to say. They showed up because they want to hear exactly what you want to hear." - Niall Mackay

Save Frustration. And time!
Let my team and I save you the time and frustration it takes to edit a podcast. From start to finish, we can help you share your story with the world with minimum fuss and cost. – Niall Mackay, The Podcast Guy
Audio Episodes Edited for ONLY $27! Save $127!!

Need a stunning new logo for your brand? Or maybe a short animation?
Whatever you need, you can find it on Fiverr.
I’ve been using Fiverr for years for everything from ordering YouTube thumbnails, translation services, keyword research, writing SEO articles to Canva designs and more!

Book a call now!

These are the programs the Seven Million Bikes Podcasts uses. These are affiliate links so they will give us a small commission, only if you sign up , and at no extra cost to you! You'll be directly supporting Seven Million Bikes Podcasts too.
NordVPN | Descript | Buzzsprout | Fiverr |

In this episode, I take you through my personal experience of evolving from a podcasting novice in 2019 to a professional editor and producer for over 30 shows globally.

I provide my top five tips for those interested in starting their own podcast on a budget. My recommendations include selecting basic but vital equipment, creating a workable home studio, utilizing efficient recording and editing software, seeking assistance and guidance from friends and the online podcasting community, and the importance of continuous learning and networking.

The episode serves to demystify podcasting for newcomers and emphasizes the possibility of producing top-tier content without breaking the bank.

00:47 Podcasting on a Budget: The Scottish Way
02:16 Essential Equipment for Podcasting
10:35 Setting Up Your Home Studio
16:15 Choosing the Right Recording and Editing Software
18:43 Leveraging Your Network for Podcasting Success
20:52 Learning and Networking in the Podcasting Community

Save Frustration. And time!
Let my team and I save you the time and frustration it takes to edit a podcast. From start to finish, we can help you share your story with the world with minimum fuss and cost. – Niall Mackay, The Podcast Guy
Audio Episodes Edited for ONLY $27! Save $127!!

Need a stunning new logo for your brand? Or maybe a short animation?
Whatever you need, you can find it on Fiverr.
I’ve been using Fiverr for years for everything from ordering YouTube thumbnails, translation services, keyword research, writing SEO articles to Canva designs and more!

Book a call now!

These are the programs the Seven Million Bikes Podcasts uses. These are affiliate links so they will give us a small commission, only if you sign up , and at no extra cost to you! You'll be directly supporting Seven Million Bikes Podcasts too.
NordVPN | Descript | Buzzsprout | Fiverr |

Niall Mackay shares his podcast audit of Debra Chantry-Taylor's show Better Business, Better Life.

They discuss equipment and editing processes, defining a clear niche and audience, crafting compelling introductions, improving audio quality, editing techniques, balancing video and audio elements, optimizing calls-to-action, and more.

Niall provides constructive feedback and tangible tips to elevate Debra's podcast.

Key Takeaways:

• Clearly explain in the introduction who you are, what the episode is about, who the guest is, and what value listeners will get. This "frames" the episode.
• Narrow your niche as much as possible to attract the right listeners. Consider adding relevant keywords to your title.
• Edit out crosstalk, filler words, background noise, and anything distracting to keep the listener focused.
• Decide if you are making the podcast primarily for video or audio. Don't refer to visual elements on an audio show.
• Have just one call-to-action at the end, focused on your own business, not promoting the guest.
• Change up your intro jingle, ads, etc. to keep it fresh. Don't get too repetitive.

"The introduction is probably the most important part of your podcast because it's what you need to keep the listener listening."

Save Frustration. And time!
Let my team and I save you the time and frustration it takes to edit a podcast. From start to finish, we can help you share your story with the world with minimum fuss and cost. – Niall Mackay, The Podcast Guy
Audio Episodes Edited for ONLY $27! Save $127!!

Need a stunning new logo for your brand? Or maybe a short animation?
Whatever you need, you can find it on Fiverr.
I’ve been using Fiverr for years for everything from ordering YouTube thumbnails, translation services, keyword research, writing SEO articles to Canva designs and more!

Book a call now!

These are the programs the Seven Million Bikes Podcasts uses. These are affiliate links so they will give us a small commission, only if you sign up , and at no extra cost to you! You'll be directly supporting Seven Million Bikes Podcasts too.
NordVPN | Descript | Buzzsprout | Fiverr |