School of Podcasting: Expert Tips for Launching and Growing Your Podcast

Behind the Scenes at Podfest: Lessons, Laughs, and Cold Coffee

Hey, it’s Dave Jackson from the School of Podcasting, and in this episode, I’m recapping my experience at Podfest 2026, which was a whirlwind of hallway chats, memorable dinners, and some eye-opening lessons. Here’s what I cover:Hallway Conversations & Overheard Myths: I noticed folks were obsessing over tiny details like the exact minute a podcast should release, debating things like whether 8:01am is better than 8:00am. Honestly, I don’t think anyone is waiting by their phone for your show to drop to the minute. Being consistent matters more than timing it down to the second.The Role (and Cost) of AI in Podcasting: I talked to podcasters searching for AI tools that could do everything—generate ideas, write scripts, edit, publish, you name it—ideally for free. The reality is, good AI isn’t free, and companies are raising prices when they add AI features. “AI” stands for “Always Increase” when it comes to your expenses!Reflections on Video: Unlike previous conferences, there wasn’t as much pressure this time to dive into video podcasting. Most folks seemed to realize you don’t want AI or automation to create your whole show. Polishing? Sure, but not producing the meat.A Cool AI Demo: I saw a preview of Episonic AI, which analyzes your past episodes, constructs a target audience profile, and even suggests topics and guests. It was interesting in demo form, but I’d want to play with it myself before really judging.Conference Costs and Why They're So High: I break down just how expensive it is to put on a conference—think $10k to rent an LED screen and $8k just to plug it in. Even coffee for attendees can run $135/gallon! High ticket prices aren’t about gouging attendees; organizers are just trying to cover astronomical hotel fees.Networking Magic: The biggest benefit of these events is always the networking. I had a blast connecting with old friends, like Daniel J. Lewis, Rob Walsh, Rob Greenlee, and James Cridlin, and got to enjoy some great stories and camaraderie.Podcasting Hall of Fame: The Hall of Fame event was a highlight. Seeing so many people who’ve truly served the podcasting community—sharing knowledge, fighting legal battles, innovating—reminded me that serving your audience is the common denominator among podcasting greats.A Word on Programmatic Ads: I discuss my article comparing podcast CPM/programmatic ads to the historic crash of banner ad prices on websites. My worry: as more low-quality, AI-generated shows flood the market and accept pennies, ad rates may sink across the board."How to Pitch a Podcast" Show Update: I’m experimenting with a new show concept where we share the worst—and best—podcast pitches. So far, the main hurdle is getting folks to submit their stories in audio form. I’ve simplified the process, and hope more people will participate. If not, it may become a segment rather than a full show.Final Thoughts: If you went to Podfest, don’t wait to follow up with those business cards—make the most of your new connections! I share about my next steps, including attending the Novel Marketing Conference in Austin, and remind everyone to check out schoolofpodcasting.com if you want personal help growing your show.Mentioned In This EpisodeSchool of Podcasting CommunityPodnewsRich Graham the Merch Drop ShowJeff Grief and the Sell'n Podcast.Electronic Frontier FoundationPodfest ExpoEpisonic.aiCapitvate Media HostingPodcast Hall of Fame ReplayThanks for listening, please share the show if you found it valuable, and I’ll catch you next week!Mentioned in this episode:Podcast Hotseat Jump Start Your Podcast GrowthWhen you sit in the Podcast Hot Seat, you get help finding what you're doing right (so you can do more of that) and identifying those things that might need a little help. You also get a month of access to the School of Podcasting, which includes unlimited coaching.Podcast HotseatLive AppearancesI love to meet my listeners. You can see where I am appearing/speaking at www.schoolofpodcasting.com/where To have me speak at your even see www.schoolofpodcasting.com/contactWhere Will I Be?Check Out Dave's Newsletter With Behind the Scenes ContentIn 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 communityPodcasting Observations

Behind the Scenes of My New Podcast

On today’s episode, I dig into my thought process as I consider launching a new podcast—and I walk through the essential questions I ask anyone who’s thinking about starting one. If you’ve already got a podcast, these questions might help you rethink your approach.Why am I starting this podcast? I share my background as a teacher and my desire to fight back against spammy guest pitches. I want to educate PR agencies and help fellow podcasters feel less alone in the sea of spam.Who is this podcast for?This show is for two groups: PR agencies (so they can do their job better) and podcasters (so they know they’re not alone and can improve how they handle pitches).How will I measure success? Instead of downloads, I’ll measure success by how many people utilize resources I share, like PodMatch and PodcastGuests.com. I’ll also keep tabs on affiliate signups.What are the hurdles?I reflect on a previous project, Dates from Hell, which struggled because it required audience participation but didn’t yet have an audience. For this new podcast, I’ll need a steady supply of good (and bad) pitches from listeners.Is this a passion project, hobby, or business?This is mostly a passion project and a hobby, driven by my desire to make a difference and maybe have some fun. If I can monetize it, that’s a nice bonus.Why will my audience listen?Listeners will tune in to hear entertainingly bad pitches, learn how to make their own pitches better, and find solidarity in their struggles with guest booking spam. Plus, I’ll offer educational insights that no one else seems to be sharing right now.How long will it take to make an episode?I estimate each episode will take around half an hour to produce, keeping things doable alongside my other commitments. You measure your production time and then choose your schedule.Do I have time and resources to make this happen? I’ve already got hosting, gear, and a plan for the website (PitchAPodcast.com). The biggest challenge will be getting enough listener participation to keep the show going.Key Takeaway I’m considering a crowd-generated podcast to tackle the problem of bad guest pitches.If you’d like to participate, send me your stories of bad (or good!) pitches, info about your podcast and website, and details on your ideal guest.I run through all the big questions to ask before launching, sharing my honest answers and experiences.Links MentionedPitchapodcast.comschoolofpodcasting.compodcastingobservations.comCaptive Media HostingBuzzsprout Media HostingPodMatchPodcastGuests.com.Podpage.com---If you have your own pitch stories or want to get involved, head to PitchAPodcast.com and share your experiences!Mentioned in this episode:Check Out Dave's Newsletter With Behind the Scenes ContentIn 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 communityPodcasting ObservationsYou Have A Message That Needs to Be HeardYou 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/joinSchool of Podcasting

The Myth of Overnight Success: What Podcasting Really Takes

Hey, it’s Dave Jackson here! In this episode, I’m diving letting you see why patience and persistence matter more than anything else in podcasting (and, honestly, in most creative pursuits). We’ve all been spoiled by the microwave mentality (wanting quick results and instant gratification) but the real success stories are built over years, not weeks.I kick things off with the story of the microwave’s invention as a metaphor for how society craves instant results, then flip the script to talk about why that approach just doesn’t work in podcasting.What Does it Take to Be Known?You’ll hear me break down the journeys of big names like Morgan Freeman, Samuel L. Jackson, Harrison Ford, Bryan Cranston, Lucille Ball, and even musicians like Bonnie Raitt and Andrea Bocelli—all of whom pushed through years (sometimes decades) before their “big break.” Yes, even Adam Sandler and Jerry Seinfeld had plenty of failures, awkward moments, and years of grinding before the world knew their names. I share how their experiences relate directly to podcasting, and why embracing your own style and sticking with what you love can make all the difference.You Need To Be More Than "Good"I also talk about the importance of consistency, cross-promotion, knowing your audience, and making your content “remarkable”—the kind people just have to talk about. I share how Seinfeld didn’t become a household name overnight, and how even my own podcast journey has been about slow, steady growth, not big, sudden leaps.Plus, I get into listener engagement strategies, word-of-mouth tactics, and why you should appreciate the connections and opportunities podcasting brings, from new friendships to dream gigs. And yes, you’ll hear a little power rant about the NFL’s approach to consistency (or lack thereof)!Because of My Podcast Lou MongelloFinally, I wrap up with plenty of listener “because of my podcast” stories, examples of how podcasting opens doors you never imagined, and a reminder that there’s nothing stopping you from growing your show except your own willingness to put in the time and effort.If you want to get inspired and set the right expectations for your own podcast journey—or just need a reminder that you’re not alone in the slow grind—this episode is for you. Thanks for tuning in!Mentioned In This EpisodeLou Mongello and his WDW RadioLou Mongello on SOP 713Because of My Podcast Post on RedditBecause of my podcast showMentioned in this episode:Podcast Hot SeatAttention podcasters! Are you ready to take your show to the next level? Introducing Podcast Hot Seat, the ultimate resource for podcasters who want to elevate their game. Just like a friend who tells you you've got spinach in your teeth, we're here to give you the honest feedback you need to shine. At podcasthotseat.com, we specialize in helping good podcasts become great. Hall of Fame podcaster Dave Jackson will identify your strengths and show you how to leverage them to keep your audience hooked. Don't let small oversights hold you back from podcasting stardom. Visit podcasthotseat.com today and put your show in the hot seat. Your listeners will thank you! Order now and get a free month at the School of Podcasting included in your purchase.Podcast HotseatLive AppearancesI'd love to see you at these events. If you're going to be attending please let me know so we can meetup. For more information go to www.schoolofpodcasting.com/whereWhere Will I Be?Unlock Exclusive Insights: Subscribe to 'Podcasting Observations' Newsletter!Get a look into the world of podcasting like never before with "Podcasting Observations," your go-to source for trends, tips, and transformative insights tailored just for podcasters. You also get "behind the scenes" info from the School of Podcasting Don't miss out on staying ahead of the game—join the 1700+ people who are already reading Podcasting Observations today!Podcasting Observations

How to Start a Podcast in 2026

If you want a podcast launch checklist I have one available here. This show is intended for beginners to podcasting. If you already have one, this may be one to skip (or you will hear things you should've thought about but didn't).Here are the steps I covered.Pick Your TopicDecide if you're podcasting solo or with cohost(s).Pick how you will podcast.Pick where will you podcast?Choose how you will measure your successPick a name. Naming tools from Podpage and Buzzsprout.Buy the HardwareBuy/Find SoftwarePurchase web hostingDomain Name ( Ilke Namecheap)GraphicsIntro Music. (optional)Media Hosting (for your mp3 files)Record Your ContentEdit Your ContentUpload your mediaWrite Your Show NotesClick PublishMake Sure your Feed is ValidPublish to Apple, Spotify, and all other directories.Tell everyone you know to follow the show on the same dayHere’s a handy list of every website and URL I mentioned in this episode, so you can find the resources and recommendations I talked about:School of Podcasting:https://schoolofpodcasting.comPodpage:https://podpage.com(And check out https://trypodpage.com for a quick start!)Buzzsprout:https://buzzsprout.comCaptivate:https://captivate.fmBlubrry:https://blubrry.comRSS.com:https://rss.comCastfeed Validator:https://castfeedvalidator.comNamecheap (my favorite for domains):https://namecheap.comCoolerWebsites (my GoDaddy reseller):https://coolerwebsites.comPodcastBranding Co (for professionally designed artwork):https://podcastbranding.coCanva (for DIY podcast artwork):https://canva.comTransistor’s artwork preview tool:https://transistor.fm/preview/TuneReel (for music licensing):https://tunereel.comSuno/Suno AI Music (for AI-generated music):https://supportthisshow.com/sunoHollyland (wireless microphones):https://geni.us/hollyland-larkm2sRode (microphones and lavalier mics):Podmic USBRode Wireless MicoElgato (Facecam, key light, and stream deck):FacecamKeylightGVM (lighting kits):3 Light PackageNeewer (affordable lighting):2 Light KitCamo (turns your phone into a webcam):Turn Your Phone into a Web CamStreamlight (monitor-to-light software):Turn your monitor into a light (Windows only)Hindenburg (audio editing software):https://hindenburg.comAudacity (free audio editor):https://audacityteam.orgAdobe Podcast (audio editing):https://podcast.adobe.comAlitu (online audio editing tool):https://alitu.comDescript (audio/video editing):https://descript.comRiverside (remote recording & video editing):https://riverside.fmSquadcast (remote recording):https://squadcast.fmECAMM Live (Mac live streaming & recording):https://ecamm.comEV Mux (live streaming):https://evmux.comStreamyard (live streaming):https://streamyard.comCamtasia (video editing):https://techsmith.com/video-editor.htmlTela (online video hosting & editing):https://tella.comDaVinci Resolve (free video editor):https://blackmagicdesign.com/products/davinciresolve/Audio Outperforms Video 15 to 1 (Rob Walch Talk)https://youtu.be/jqWNXW0gMs4?si=ITLHr2cAqIsjTBds&t=715Takeaways:Starting a podcast is simple but can be a real pain in the neck.You gotta know your 'why' for podcasting, or you'll just quit when it gets tough.Finding your target audience is crucial, don't just say 'everyone' because that's not helpful.Investing in good audio equipment is key, because bad sound makes people leave fast.Audio is the most important element of videoMentioned in this episode:Want to Make Some Money with Your Podcast?Pick up any book on podcast monetization, and you will find 90 percent of it only covers how to launch a podcast. If you already have a podcast, you have that information; you’re ready for the next step. Profit from Your Podcast provides top strategies and real-life examples of podcast monetization. This book is more than what to do. It also tells you how to do it. Go to www.profitfromyourpodcast.com/bookProfit From Your PodcastLive AppearancesI'd love to see you at these events. If you're going to be attending please let me know so we can meetup. For more information go to www.schoolofpodcasting.com/whereWhere Will I Be?

What's Your Favorite Podcast (AND WHY) 2025 Edition

What makes a podcast someone's favorite? I ask this every year, and here are the shows that were mentioned:Here is a list of the "Favorite" shows, as well as those who submitted them. Thanks so all who were involved.1. Nudge2. No Agenda 3.Treat Addiction Podcast 4. Daily Devotions for Busy Lives5. Harry Shearer’s Show "Le Show"6. School of Podcasting 7. Time Suck8. Too Many Tabs9. What Was That Like?10. Daily Sports History11. Walking is Fitness12. Welcome to Earth Stories13. The Pharmacist’s Voice Podcast14. The Perrysburg Podcast15. Content Creators Accountant16. Back Look Cinema17. POD News Weekly Review18. Grow The Show19. Podcast41120. Your Podcast ConsultantCommon Thread of Great ContentThe common thread is distinctive, hard-to-find content delivered by engaging hosts with real chemistry, in a well-thought-out format, that solves a listener problem and leaves them feeling something (hopeful, grounded, entertained, or relieved).Did You Get Value From The Show?If you'd like to give back some of the value you received, you can do a one-time gift, or become an awesome supporter.Gear Used On This EpisodeAccentize Dialogue Enhance PluginRode Podmic USBRodecaster DuoSchepps Omni Channel PluginCaptivate Media HostingMentioned in this episode:Don't Wait to Level Up Your ShowThinking about starting a podcast—or already 300 episodes in? Skip the rookie mistakes, save money, and level up your show with the School of Podcasting with Dave Jackson, where you get hands-on feedback, one-on-one support, and practical advice that actually improves your podcast. Not sure? Just ask Krista and Mark from practicalprepping.info Then join the School of Podcasting at www.schoolofpodcasting.com/join (or use the link below)School of PodcastingLive AppearancesI'd love to see you at these events. If you're going to be attending please let me know so we can meetup. For more information go to www.schoolofpodcasting.com/whereWhere Will I Be?