E411 - Live Recording From our How To Podcast Meetup Group - Open Podcasting Questions and Answers

Episode 411 - Live Recording From our How To Podcast Meetup Group - Open Podcasting Questions and AnswersWhat we’re aboutA meetup designed to:Connect PodcastersBuild CommunitySupport fellow podcastersPromote your podcastAsk QuestionsBe A Guest and Find A Guest requestsGoal: A judgement free group of amazing podcasters at different stages of their podcasting journey - feel free to ask questions, get clarity and be motivated to start and to continue your podcast journey.Meetings will start off with a short discussion topic related to podcasting, a Q&A portion around the topic presented, and then open discussion and breakout rooms as the group grows.Check out the podcasts from our participantsBill Monty's Guide For Getting Olderhttps://pod.link/1724671803Tales From South Floridahttps://pod.link/1724673458Long Covid, MDhttps://pod.link/1716072073You Have the Power - The Road to Recovery from Trauma and Narcissistic Abusehttps://pod.link/1761735883High-Fidelity Conversationshttps://pod.link/1625704418Afterlight Fictionshttps://pod.link/1712362054https://acontagioussmile.com/https://www.meetup.com/how-to-podcast-community/___https://howtopodcast.ca/

Episode 410 - Beyond the Mic - Branding, The Importance of Consistent Podcast ArtPodcast artwork plays a vital role in attracting listeners and visually representing your show. Here’s a breakdown of the different types of podcast artwork, best practices, and common pitfalls to avoid:Types of Podcast ArtworkShow Artwork:Represents the entire podcast and is displayed across platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and directories.Typically includes the podcast name, logo, and a visual theme that reflects the show's identityEpisode Artwork:Specific to individual episodes, often featuring guest names, topics, or unique visuals tied to that episode.Adds a personalized touch and helps episodes stand out in feedsExample: A travel podcast might use location-specific imagery for each episode.Chapter Artwork:Used within episodes to visually represent different segments or chapters.Common in podcasts with detailed narratives or educational contentOther Forms:Season Artwork: Represents a specific season of the podcast, distinct from the overall show artwork.Promotional Artwork: Designed for social media posts, ads, or merchandise.Best Practices for Quality Podcast ArtworkFollow Technical Specifications:Use dimensions of 3000 x 3000 pixels (72 dpi) for show art to ensure compatibility across platformsSave files in JPG or PNG format with RGB colorspaceDesign for Versatility:Ensure artwork looks good at various sizes, from thumbnails to large displays4.Test designs against dark mode backgrounds for visibilityKeep It Simple and Legible:Avoid clutter; limit text to five to seven words for readabilityUse sans-serif fonts for clarity on smaller screensUse High-Quality Images:Opt for high-resolution visuals to avoid pixelationIncorporate vector graphics for scalabilityLeverage Color Psychology:Choose colors that evoke emotions tied to your podcast’s theme (e.g., warm tones for positivity)Maintain Branding Consistency:Use consistent fonts, colors, and imagery across all artwork forms to strengthen brand identityExperiment with AI Tools:AI can generate unique episode-specific art quickly by analyzing themes and tonesWhat to AvoidOverused Imagery:Avoid generic icons like microphones or headphones unless directly relevant to your podcast’s topicPoor Quality Visuals:Steer clear of blurry, pixelated, or mismatched imagesExcessive Text:Too much text can overwhelm the design and reduce readabilityExplicit Content:Do not include profanity, nudity, or references to illegal activities in artwork as it violates platform guidelinesIgnoring Platform Requirements:Ensure compliance with Apple Podcasts’ rules (e.g., no placeholder images or Apple logos)By adhering to these guidelines and avoiding common mistakes, podcasters can create compelling artwork that enhances their show’s appeal and professionalism!https://podcasters.apple.com/support/866-promotional-artwork___https://howtopodcast.ca/

Episode 409 - CO-HOST - Bob LeMent - When There Was Only 50 Podcasts, Your Podcast Persona, and a Blue CatBob is one of the original 50 podcasters that started what we have today in podcasting. The Static Web Site’s first episode was January 1, 1999 in a vain attempt to make the world hear the off kilter and sophomoric ramblings of Miles Tidal and Bob LeMent.Now 24 years and counting they continue their weekly stream of consciousness dialogues. As you may have discerned from listening, we do no preparation or use any manners or decorum to provide a fully improvised piece of comedy. Enjoy.https://StaticRadio.comDon't really need to hit it at all, but just to promote where people can find me, if they so choose.___https://howtopodcast.ca/

Episode 408 - The Forgotten History of Video Podcasting and Its Comeback StoryThe history of video podcasting via RSS feeds demonstrates that while video in podcasting is currently resurging, it is not a new concept. Here's an overview of its origins and the current resurgence:Early History of Video PodcastingRSS Enclosures and Early Experiments (2000): The concept of attaching media files, including video, to RSS feeds was proposed in 2000 by Tristan Louis and implemented by Dave Winer. Winer introduced the "enclosure" element in RSS 0.92, allowing media files to be syndicated. This innovation laid the groundwork for both audio and video podcastingFirst Video Podcasts (2003): The first known serial video podcast, Dead End Days, was released in 2003. It showcased the potential for distributing video content episodically via RSS feedsTechnical Evolution: Early tools like iPodderX (later renamed Transistr) enabled users to access podcasts with graphical interfaces, making it easier to consume both audio and video content. However, video podcasting remained niche due to technical limitations like slow internet speeds and low-quality video playbackResurgence of Video PodcastingCurrent Trends (2024–2025):Platforms like YouTube, Spotify, and TikTok have driven the adoption of video podcasting by integrating video capabilities directly into their ecosystems. YouTube's dedicated podcast section and Spotify's support for video uploads have made video podcasting a mainstream formatEnhanced audience engagement is a key driver. Video allows for visual storytelling, fosters deeper connections through non-verbal cues like facial expressions, and creates a more immersive experienceMonetization opportunities have expanded with video, as creators can leverage ads, sponsorships, and premium content on platforms optimized for visual mediaShifts in Content Creation:In contrast to earlier static formats, modern video podcasts often include dynamic elements like B-roll footage and on-screen graphics. Short-form clips optimized for platforms like Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts have also become popular for promotional purposesVideo podcasting has evolved significantly since its early days in the 2000s when it was pioneered alongside audio podcasting via RSS feeds. While the medium faced initial challenges due to technological constraints, its resurgence today is fueled by advancements in internet speeds, platform support, and audience demand for visually engaging content. This resurgence underscores that while video podcasting feels innovative now, it is deeply rooted in the foundational history of podcasting.https://blubrry.com/manual/about-podcasting/history-of-podcasting-new/technical-history-of-podcasting/https://podnews.net/article/first-podcast-feed-historyhttps://lowerstreet.co/blog/video-podcast-platforms#can-i-host-my-video-podcast-with-my-rss-feed ____https://howtopodcast.ca/

Episode 407 - Podcasting for Microsoft, The Intrazone and Polaris Pathways, a business transformation podcast with CO-HOST - Chris McNultyAfter years of songwriting, music production, and conference speaking, I’m not afraid of a microphone or some audio engineering. I’m particularly proud of these two:The Intrazone Mark Kashman started this with me back in 2018 - it’s the official podcast that covers all things Microsoft 365. Mark does the work, his partner Lisa does the production, and I just show up from time to time. Polaris Pathways Sponsored by Synozur, and I produce new episodes monthly. Synozur is named for the ancient Greek reference to the North Star, Polaris. Our mission is to illuminate the pathway for business transformation with coverage of business, technology, and even pop culture.https://www.chrismcnulty.net___https://howtopodcast.ca/

Welcome to the How To Podcast Series - your home for podcast advice, instruction, community and varied voices from the podcast space - people just like you, starting and growing a podcast and sharing a topic that they love!It is not too late to start a podcast and there is an audience looking for a topic that you are passionate about, so, start here!___https://howtopodcast.ca/

Episode 406 - Podpacer.com, No Hacks Podcast, Podcaster A.I. with CO-HOST Slobodan ManicPodpacer is the best way to manage and promote your podcastEasy to use and free to try. Repurpose your podcast episodes, research and plan your episodes, and use your very own AI assistant, all in one place.Content RepurposingAutomatically transcribe your episodes and create dozens of content units from them. All in your tone of voice.Episode PlanningResearch your upcoming episodes, and plan them in advance. Use podcasts, YouTube videos, articles and more as sources.Podpacer AIPodpacer helps you with the episode scripts, and even generate the show notes for you. Podpacer AI knows your podcast inside out.No Hacks: The Mindset Behind Digital Optimization and GrowthWelcome to No Hacks, the podcast where expertise meets creativity to revolutionize digital experiences. Hosted by industry veteran Slobodan (Sani) Manić, this engaging series tackles marketing, conversion rate optimization (CRO), and user experience (UX) without relying on gimmicks or shortcuts.In each episode, join Slobodan as he engages in candid conversations with top leaders and innovators from tech, business, and design fields. Discover real stories, lessons learned, and breakthrough moments that highlight how to create impactful and transformative online experiences.No Hacks goes beyond traditional best practices, challenging the status quo by exploring the psychology behind what truly works. Delve into real-world case studies and explore innovative strategies that push the limits of possibility in the digital landscape.If you are a developer, designer, marketer, or a digital enthusiast, No Hacks provides smart, thoughtful strategies for long-term success. Learn to think differently, innovate creatively, and build meaningful digital experiences.No shortcuts, just expert insights and genuine solutions. Subscribe now to join us one episode at a time as we unravel the true elements of designing transformative digital experiences.Two Formats, One Mission:🎙️ No Hacks Podcast (long-form interviews) – In these seasonal episodes, I sit down with top experts in marketing, tech, and business to discuss the principles and stories behind successful optimization. We go beyond the surface to explore what really works—and why, on Wednesdays.🍪 No Hacks Snacks (short-form insights) – Need quick, actionable advice? These under-10-minute episodes deliver practical tips and insights from a wide range of guests, on Mondays and Fridays.Subscribe and join No Hacks on this journey to make the internet a better, more thoughtful place, one episode at a time.https://pod.link/1554743376https://www.podpacer.com/https://www.podpacer.com/roast-my-podcast/___https://howtopodcast.ca/

Episode 405 - Three Things Every Podcaster Should Practice Today to Improve Your Communication and Confidence as a PodcasterWelcome to the podcast! Be sure to go back into our past episodes to catch great conversations and topics designed to help you on your podcast - episode 404 features Cass and her amazing podcast process, if you want a great framework that might work well for your podcast, go back one episode and hear that conversation!This episode features 3 practice tips that you can use today to improve your podcastRecord a video of yourself reading and talking, then, the challenge is to:- listen to your recording playback without watching the screen, just listen, what do you hear yourself doing?- watch the video playback with the sound off - what do you see?- grab a transcription of the words you said - what can you clean up when you speak? Crutch words, are you an umh machine? Too many tangents? Take one thing that you noticed that you can improve on, address that one thing and make a positive change, then repeat this process again, and agan, and... again - keep improving everytime you do this and your audience will notice!Next episode features Sani from PodPacer.com - a cool tool for podcasters and a free "Roast My Show" AI tool - if you are nervous about roasting your own show, roast mine!The creator of this process is Vinh Giang - here is a video of Vinh teaching this process which inspired this episodehttps://www.linkedin.com/posts/vinhgiang_this-process-is-called-record-review-activity-7271852336493268992-6dUY?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAAMvv_8B-0xHStbgQZfb5pQE8ro1r3EY-kMhttps://www.vinhgiang.com/___https://howtopodcast.ca/

Episode 404 - CO-HOST - Cassian Bellino - Biblically Speaking Podcast, and an Impressive List of Tools That Can Help Your PodcastMeet the Founder, Cassian BellinoWhen I felt the pull to start the Biblically Speaking podcast, it wasn’t a dramatic revelation, but a persistent nudge. Over the years, I had countless conversations about faith—what began as casual discussions often grew into deeper reflections.I realized that people asked the same questions I once asked, wrestled with similar doubts, and shared insights that resonated with me. I realized I wasn’t just interested in theology—I was driven by it, needing a space to unpack and connect with others around the questions that kept me up at night.With every conversation and every page of Scripture studied, the Bible became clearer, simpler, and, most importantly, transformative. Now, through hundreds of hours of interviews and insights from some of the world’s most respected scholars, Biblically Speaking exists to make the Bible understandable, approachable, and powerfully relevant to everyday life. It’s been a journey of learning, one that has completely changed me—and I’m here to share it with you.Biblically Speaking - The Bible has been a bestseller for millennia, yet learning about Christianity can feel daunting. I felt the same way. So, as I asked questions, I hit "Record." Biblically Speaking is for curious Christians seeking clear answers to big Bible questions. Each episode unpacks Scripture with theologians, breaking down passages, parables, and prophecies to make the Bible relatable and easy to understand. If you're looking to grow in faith with real insights and a fresh perspective, this podcast is your guide to understanding God's Word simply and meaningfully.https://pod.link/1723892791https://www.bibspeak.com/https://linktr.eehttps://www.stan.storehttps://podmatch.comhttps://www.audacityteam.orghttps://riverside.fmhttps://www.podbean.comhttps://manychat.comhttps://www.capcut.comhttps://testimonial.tohttps://www.boomcaster.comhttps://www.podbean.comhttps://www.bibspeak.com___https://howtopodcast.ca/

Episode 409 - CO-HOST - Bob LeMent - When There Was Only 50 Podcasts, Your Podcast Persona, and a Blue Cat - Video VersionBob joins The How To Podcast Series and yes, he is on video as a cartoon blue cat! So, a video is in order for this episode!The audio version is also available!The Static Web Site’s first official episode was January 1, 1999, in a vain attempt to make the world hear the off-kilter and sophomoric ramblings of Miles Tidal and Bob LeMent.Now 25 years and counting they continue their weekly stream-of-consciousness dialogues. As you may have discerned from listening, we do no preparation or use any manners or decorum to provide a fully improvised piece of comedy. Enjoy.We have been producing this weekly audio internet show, Static Radio, since November 25, 1998. Miles and I have recorded each week with only very minor interruptions over the last 25 years. Those were mostly personal tragedies, family members passing away, or losing your house to a fire, and one national tragedy on September 11, 2001. But other than those minor bumps each week Miles and I give the internet a 15 to 40-minute weekly comedy show about the strange and funny happenings in their lives.Although technology has changed drastically over the last 25 years, Miles and I have persevered week after week to bring a little levity to the world. Yes sometimes it can be quite bawdy, or even crass, but it is always an attempt to make each other laugh and hopefully make you, the audience, laugh as well. We lay bare our quirks, deficits, and all the things that make us human, but try to spin it humorously.https://www.staticradio.com/___https://howtopodcast.ca/