Let's Blow This Up: Podcasting Strategy Amplified

3 Big Takeaways From Podfest 2026 + A Major Announcement

In this bonus episode of Let’s Blow This Up, I'm recapping my experience attending Podfest 2026 in Orlando, Florida and breaking down why industry events remain essential for podcasters and creators. I've got firsthand insights on how in-person conferences accelerate learning, spark ideas, and create momentum that simply can’t be replicated online and I'll be sharing them throughout this episode.I'm also diving into the unmatched power of face-to-face connections, highlighting how real conversations lead to deeper relationships and long-term collaborations. This type of thing was running rampant at Podfest and in no way is that depressing!The speakers at Podfest brought a new level of knowledge and education to the game, from expert-led sessions to peer-driven conversations that sharpen skills and challenge assumptions. These learning moments reinforced the importance of staying current with podcasting trends while remaining adaptable in a rapidly evolving industry.And last but not least...this episode marks a turning point for this show. I've got some big plans in the works as we move forward. Click play to hear all about it! Key Takeaways from This EpisodeAttending Podfest 2026 reinforced the irreplaceable value of in-person industry events for podcasters (and all professionals in their respective industries)Face-to-face conversations lead to deeper connections than online networking alone can doIndustry conferences accelerate learning through real-world insights and shared experiencesStrategic planning helps maximize the value of events before, during, and after attendingPodcast growth requires clarity in positioning, messaging, and long-term strategyRebranding the show reflects a stronger focus on podcast strategy and intentional growth. Stay tuned....Thank you for listening and becoming an official member of The Bomb Squad!Now it's time to take action and get the most from your podcasting efforts. Discover how I can help you out at bombtrackmedia.comMUSIC CREDIT: Aggressive Metal Trailer (Dragon Heart) by Alex Grohl on pixabay.com

Let's Blow This Up Goes Weekly; Podfest 2026 Preview

We are BACK, bay-bay!In this episode of Let’s Blow This Up, I'm sharing an important update on the evolution of this podcast, mainly announcing the move to a weekly production schedule beginning in February 2026. This podcast has always been a season-based show, so why the change? Click play to find out!I'm also diving into how balancing solo episodes, conversations, and community-driven content will continue to build a dynamic podcast ecosystem. How does weekly rhythm support creative momentum while strengthening listener connection and reinforcing the show’s mission to help podcasters build with purpose? The answer lays within.I'm also talking about Podfest 2026, an annual event happening January 15th thru 18th that I'll be attending for the first time this year. I'll be sharing what I'm looking forward and letting you know why attending events such as this should be at the top of your priority list this year and beyond.Key TakeawaysLet’s Blow This Up will transition to a weekly release schedule starting February 2026Consistent publishing helps build audience trust and long-term podcast growthMixing solo episodes, conversations, and livestream content keeps a show engagingSustainable podcasting requires realistic planning and creative alignmentCommunity and connection are essential elements of podcast successPodfest 2026 offers opportunities for learning, networking, and creative expansion. Hope to see you there!Thank you for listening and becoming an official member of The Bomb Squad!Now it's time to take action and get the most from your podcasting efforts. Discover how I can help you out at bombtrackmedia.comMUSIC CREDIT: Aggressive Metal Trailer (Dragon Heart) by Alex Grohl on pixabay.com

An Empowered Podcasting Conference 2 Retrospective

September 26th thru 28th, 2025 will go down in history as a weekend that changed the game. At least in the podcast world.Hundreds of podcast enthusiasts, content creators, hosts, strategists, and more convened in Charlotte, North Carolina for Empowered Podcasting Conference 2, an event designed to build community, spark collaboration, and enhance relationships. What transpired throughout this event is nothing short of phenomenal. From start to finish, EPC2 was the epitome of what the podcasting community stands for - insight, innovation, connection, and camaraderie.In this bonus episode of Let's Blow This Up, I'm sharing my thoughts on my epic 10-days in Charlotte...all culminating at the Hyatt Centric in Southpark (just outside the Queen City) with a conference I presented at, MC'ed at, and helped put together with an extraordinary group of people.Throughout this episode, I unpack the value of authentic communities, why showing up in person still matters, and how these experiences fuel can your personal and professional momentum. I also dive into the emotional and strategic ROI of gathering with the right people and how it can lead to better content, stronger networks, and more clarity in your message.Key Takeaways From This EpisodeBeing part of the right community is everythingIgniting new relationships begins with the courage to reach out and make a new connectionEmpowered Podcasting is more than just a conference - it's a community and a movement that's primed to take the podcast medium to new heightsThere's power in being able to network directly with speakers and experts - not just on the stage, but in the hallways, at dinner, and over beverages as wellPlanning events isn't easy...but seeing them come to life makes the hard times worth it and the good times even betterJoin the Empowered Podcasting Community on FacebookThank you for listening and becoming an official member of The Bomb Squad!Now it's time to take action and get the most from your podcasting efforts. Discover how I can help you out at bombtrackmedia.comMUSIC CREDIT: Aggressive Metal Trailer (Dragon Heart) by Alex Grohl on pixabay.com

Making a Podcast With Bombtrack Media: Soft Skills Strong Results

It's another bonus episode of Let's Blow This Up and today, Charlie Krebs joins the podcast to talk about the launch and growth of his podcast known as Soft Skills: Strong Results. We dive into the strategy behind the show and how Charlie’s background shaped his approach to podcasting.Charlie shares how his experience in theater, TEDx speaking, and higher education helped him become a confident host. His ability to carry conversations with purpose makes each episode more engaging for his audience.Throughout this conversation, Charlie and I explore why soft skills are more than a buzzword. Charlie breaks down the difference between interpersonal and cognitive soft skills and how both are essential in professional and personal life.We also touch on simple, powerful ways to build connection --- like learning someone’s name and showing genuine interest. It’s not about being flashy; it’s about being human.Charlie also gives his thoughts on how it's been to work with me to build his podcast!Key Takeaways:A strong podcast starts with a clear strategy, not just a microphone.Communication skills from other industries can translate seamlessly into podcasting.Theater and public speaking backgrounds build strong conversational flow.Interpersonal soft skills create better listener engagement.Small gestures, like using someone’s name or asking how their day is going, can have a big impact.Soft skills aren’t fluff; they’re foundational to leadership and connection.Check out Soft Skills Strong Results on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music | iHeartRadioThank you for listening and becoming an official member of The Bomb Squad!Now it's time to take action and get the most from your podcasting efforts. Discover how I can help you out at bombtrackmedia.comMUSIC CREDIT: Aggressive Metal Trailer (Dragon Heart) by Alex Grohl on pixabay.com

Making a Podcast With Bombtrack Media: Rock Your Reinvention

It's another installment of the "Making a Podcast With Bombtrack Media" series and today, I'm joined by the one and only Karin Freeland, host of Rock Your Reinvention for a wide-open discussion of what we've been doing to build and grow her podcast.Karin and I dive into the importance of podcast SEO and how identifying the right keywords for episode titles can significantly impact discoverability. By focusing on what listeners are actively searching for, we’ve been able to grow her audience in a targeted, organic way.We also touch on the collaborative process behind producing Rock Your Reinvention, with Karin sharing her insights on what it's like to work with me on a weekly basis. From creative planning to post-production and promotion, every step is designed to strengthen the show's reach and relevance.Karin generously shares her experience working with yours truly at Bombtrack Media, highlighting the value of having a reliable, communicative partner in her corner. Her testimonial underscores how important trust and consistency are when building a show that stands out in a crowded podcast landscape.🔑 Key Takeaways:Rock Your Reinvention is focused on helping women reclaim their power and break free from the shackles of corporate life.Strategic SEO practices, including keyword-rich titles, directly contribute to increased podcast visibility and engagement.Episode planning and structure play a vital role in keeping the content relevant and listener-focused.Consistent editing and production quality elevate the professionalism of Karin’s show.Marketing efforts go beyond audio, integrating social media and search engine strategies to expand audience reach.Listen to Rock Your ReinventionThank you for listening and becoming an official member of The Bomb Squad!Now it's time to take action and get the most from your podcasting efforts. Discover how I can help you out at bombtrackmedia.comMUSIC CREDIT: Aggressive Metal Trailer (Dragon Heart) by Alex Grohl on pixabay.com