E524 - I Do What I Want in My Podcast, Authorship and Podcasting With CO-HOST - Hollis Jo McCollum

Dave Throws Down the Podcast Gauntlet - A Bold 24 Hour Challenge Coming This FebruaryIn this Daily Dave bonus episode of The How-To Podcast Series, Dave shares an idea that came to him during an overnight shift and quickly refused to let go. Known for working nights and pushing creative limits, Dave wonders what would happen if he fully leaned into that rhythm and turned it into a podcasting experiment unlike anything he has done before.The concept is simple and extreme at the same time. Dave is seriously considering recording, editing, and publishing 24 complete podcast episodes in 24 consecutive hours. The challenge would begin at 10 a.m. on Friday, February 13, and run straight through until 10 a.m. on Saturday, February 14, with a brand new episode released every single hour. No sleep, minimal breaks, lots of coffee, and total commitment to the process.This episode is Dave thinking out loud, inviting listeners into the creative chaos as he works through the logistics. He talks about streaming the entire marathon live using Boomcaster, leaving the stream running so listeners can drop in at any hour to see how things are going. From clear-headed teaching moments early on to whatever happens after the twelve hour mark, Dave is open about the fact that it will likely get messy, silly, and very real.Dave has already outlined 24 episode ideas, many focused on podcasting basics, while others may lean into experimentation and fun. He hints at possible visual elements, maybe even pulling out a guitar to create a custom intro during the marathon. Above all, this challenge is about creativity, endurance, and a genuine love of podcasting.Listeners are encouraged to share feedback, ideas, name suggestions, and survival tips, or simply to tune in and witness the experiment unfold. Whether you join live or catch the episodes later, the result will be 24 new episodes ready to listen to on your own schedule.Key Takeaway:This episode is a reminder that growth in podcasting often comes from bold experiments. You do not need permission to try something ambitious. Sometimes the best ideas start as a wild thought on a night shift and turn into a challenge that pushes both your creativity and your limits.___Helping Podcasters Everyday! https://howtopodcast.ca/We would love to hear from you - here is our listener survey!https://forms.gle/GbrFv9DGszV8N4PW6

Episode 524 - I Do What I Want in My Podcast, Authorship and Podcasting With CO-HOST - Hollis Jo McCollumImprov, presence, and the art of showing upThis episode centers on the joy of unfiltered conversation and the power of being present in the moment. Hollis Jo McCollum, host of I Do What I Want!, and her co-host Dave riff on the spontaneity and humor that come from live, unscripted dialogue. The conversation touches how improv mindset—saying yes and learning to adapt—fuels engaging interviews, teaches the value of authentic interaction, and keeps podcasts lively even when plans loosen their grip.From hobby to vocation: creativity on displayHollis reflects on her path as an author who embraced podcasting as a platform for connection and discovery. She recalls launching her show with a simple premise: to let conversations unfold rather than over-structuring them. The discussion sheds light on the practicalities of producing a podcast in real time—how she handles live recording, editing aversions, and the flexibility required to stay true to the “I Do What I Want” spirit. The value of sharing personal stories—especially about writing, reading, and the creative process—emerges as a key driver for building an audience.Balancing craft and audienceThe episode explores the balance between being a guest and a host, the dynamics of collaboration, and how to maintain a rhythm that honors listeners and guests alike. Hollis and Dave consider scheduling, consistency, and the realities of adult life that shape publishing cadence. The importance of audience feedback is highlighted as a catalyst for evolution—recognizing what resonates, and adapting formats while preserving personality and humor.Cultural context and human connectionA recurring thread is how technology shapes everyday life and communication. The co-hosts share anecdotes about Gen Z interactions, the role of smartphones in shaping behavior, and how public spaces become stages for candid social moments. The conversation muses on the value of human-to-human conversations in a tech-saturated world and argues for deliberate presence as a practice—whether in cafes, classrooms, or on a podcast episode.Key takeaway for listenersAuthenticity in conversation—embracing spontaneity, being present, and balancing structure with improvisation—creates compelling storytelling and meaningful connection with both guests and audiences. This episode champions showing up as you are, with curiosity, humor, and a willingness to go wherever the dialogue leads.Notes on style and connective threadsThe show’s vibe is conversational, improvisational, and warmly informal, reflecting Hollis’s personality and the “I Do What I Want!” ethos.Personal anecdotes about writing, voice work, and the creative process illuminate a behind-the-scenes look at podcasting for authors.The hosts’ emphasis on listening, presence, and playful exploration provides a blueprint for listeners who want to cultivate their own creative projects and maintain authentic communication.EndnoteListeners are encouraged to engage with Hollis’s work across platforms (YouTube, Spotify, and other hosts) and to consider how a flexible, people-first approach to conversations can enrich both creative endeavors and everyday interactions.https://pod.link/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuc3ByZWFrZXIuY29tL3Nob3cvNTUyNDExOS9lcGlzb2Rlcy9mZWVkhttps://www.hollisjomccollumauthor.com/____https://howtopodcast.ca/

Episode 523 - Please STOP Listening to My Podcast - Inaction is getting in your way, Sart Your Podcast!Starting Your Podcast: Just Take the First StepStarting a podcast can be a daunting task, especially if you're new to the world of podcasting. Many aspiring podcasters often find themselves overwhelmed by the numerous steps and decisions that go into launching their show. But the truth is, getting started is easier than you might think. It's all about taking that crucial first step.Do Anything: That's the mantra for all new podcasters. Perhaps you've already made some initial progress – you've acquired a decent microphone, selected your co-hosts, or even considered album art. Or maybe you're sitting there with a blank slate, unsure of where to begin. Both situations are perfectly fine because the most important thing is to start making your podcast.In this article, we aim to provide guidance and encouragement to new podcasters who are struggling to make that first move. While we'll touch on various podcast-related aspects we've learned from our years in the industry, the key takeaway is to avoid getting bogged down by endless deliberation and overthinking.Action Over Perfection: It's common for new podcasters to fixate on making everything perfect before they even hit the record button. They might spend endless hours setting up a professional-grade recording studio, refining their ideas, or crafting a flawless marketing plan. However, waiting for perfection can be paralyzing.Experience is the best teacher. So, if you feel stuck, unable to take that first step, we have an exercise for you that you can do right now.The Simple Exercise: Grab your phone, open a voice recording app (most operating systems come with one), or use any device with a built-in microphone. Press record and start talking. Don't overthink it; talk about whatever comes to mind. What's your passion? What stories do you want to share? What keeps you up at night? Once you've said your piece, press stop.Congratulations, you've just recorded an episode of your podcast! Don't let technicalities or self-doubt hold you back. Making the recording is the baseline, the essential step you must take to get started.Continuous Improvement: Podcasting, like any creative endeavor, is a learning process. Don't expect to master it on your first try. Instead, focus on getting better with each recording. Try different approaches, experiment with music, or work on your pacing.Remember, podcasting is easy in terms of its technical simplicity. Just click record, talk, and click stop. However, creating content that resonates with your audience and satisfies your creative aspirations can be as challenging and time-consuming as you choose to make it.So, here's the key takeaway: take that first step. Start recording, and then work on improving with each episode. Learn from your experiences and keep refining your craft. This is not only how we become proficient podcasters; it's how anyone becomes proficient in anything.The journey begins with that first recording, and it's time to embark on your podcasting adventure. Don't hesitate, just record something, and you'll find yourself on a path of constant growth and improvement. Happy podcasting!___https://howtopodcast.ca/

Episode 522 - Boundaries and Bonds - Navigating Parasocial Relationships in PodcastingDave dives into the intriguing concept of parasocial relationships in podcasting, sparked by the sudden passing of Todd Cochrane, the influential host of The New Media Show and Geek News Central, and champion of independent podcasters through his Blueberry hosting platform. Though Dave never met Todd personally - no emails exchanged, no direct interactions - years of listening created a deep one-sided bond. Listeners like Dave feel intimately connected to hosts, knowing their voices, opinions, and lives intimately, while hosts remain unaware of individual fans beyond download stats.This dynamic makes podcasting profoundly intimate, like inviting listeners into your living room for ongoing conversations they weave into their routines. Hosts hold significant influence: listeners trust endorsements, remember details from early episodes long after hosts forget, and may share vulnerable stories, treating podcasters as confidants. Dave stresses the ethical weight this carries—avoid manipulation through sponsorships, set clear boundaries on personal sharing like family details or contact info, and always prioritize listener welfare, consent, and autonomy.Practical advice flows throughout: be transparent about paid promotions to maintain trust, moderate communities to protect vulnerable members, get opt-in for using listener content, and regularly self-reflect on boundaries. Hosts must recognize signals of strong bonds, like persistent outreach, and respond with care without exploiting the power imbalance. Dave shares his commitment to monthly listener chats via a calendar on howtopodcast.com, inviting five fans to connect genuinely.The episode closes with a bonus Q&A on launching: technically, one episode suffices, but bank a short trailer (1-2 minutes) plus 1-3 episodes for momentum without overcommitting like pre-making a year's worth.Key takeaway: Parasocial bonds are a beautiful privilege—treat your audience as a cherished community, not a commodity. Honor their trust with integrity, boundaries, and genuine care; your microphone wields real power, so wield it responsibly to build lasting relationships.___https://howtopodcast.ca/

Episode 521 - Are You a Confident Podcaster or an Arrogant Podcaster - How To Tell What Path You Are On as a Content CreatorConfidence vs. Arrogance for PodcastersA simple way to put it for podcasters: confidence is “I have valuable insights and the skills to share them,” while arrogance is “My voice and knowledge are more valuable and better than everyone else’s.” Listeners and collaborators feel encouraged and engaged around confidence, but shut down or distant around arrogance.Clear Definitions for PodcastersConfidence: A grounded belief in your abilities as a host and creator, with a realistic sense of your strengths and areas to grow, and a willingness to learn from feedback and collaboration.Arrogance: An inflated view of your importance as a podcaster, exaggerating your expertise, needing to be right at all times, and dismissing others’ ideas or contributions to feel dominant.How Confidence and Arrogance Impact Your PodcastA confident podcaster listens actively to guests and audience feedback, makes thoughtful editorial choices, owns mistakes, and maintains respect and warmth that creates a welcoming and collaborative community.An arrogant podcaster dismisses contradictory opinions, talks over guests or ignores listener input, blames others for problems, or mocks opposing views, which creates tension and causes people to tune out or disengage.Quick Self-Check Questions for PodcastersBefore recording or sharing content, ask yourself:“Am I trying to serve my audience or prove how smart I am?” Confidence serves listeners; arrogance tries to prove superiority.“Can I still respect someone who disagrees with me or points out my flaws?” Confidence welcomes constructive disagreement; arrogance cannot handle critique.Everyday Podcasting ExamplesWhen interacting with guests or collaborators, a confident podcaster says, “I trust my skills but want to genuinely hear your perspective.” An arrogant podcaster implies or states, “I’m the host, so my way is the only way.”In responding to listener feedback, a confident podcaster listens and adapts when needed. An arrogant podcaster doubles down on their opinions, ignores feedback, or refuses to acknowledge mistakes.When promoting the podcast, a confident podcaster celebrates team efforts and takes responsibility for setbacks; an arrogant podcaster takes all credit and blames others for failures.How to Grow Confident, Not Arrogant, as a PodcasterGround your identity: Recognize that your worth as a content creator isn’t tied only to downloads, likes, or reviews; it’s deeper than performance metrics.Practice humility: Regularly admit when you don’t know something or made a mistake—this builds trust with listeners and collaborators, and actually enhances your credibility.Use your strengths to lift others: Whenever you feel powerful—whether in knowledge, skills, or platform—ask, “How can I use this to support and amplify others, rather than dominate the conversation?”This approach helps podcasters cultivate authentic confidence for building a loyal audience and strong collaborations while avoiding the alienating effects of arrogance in content creation.https://www.threads.com/@howtopodcast.ca____https://howtopodcast.ca/

Episode 520 - Comparing Your Show To A Top Podcast is Not Fair to You or to Your Audience - Please StopThis episode takes aim at a trap many new podcasters fall into: building their shows by comparing themselves to celebrity podcasts. Dave Campbell shares candidly from his experience in Ontario, Canada, hosting nine podcasts and talking daily with new creators who arrive with “stars in their eyes,” wanting a show that looks and sounds like Mel Robbins, Joe Rogan, Diary of a CEO or other top names. The core issue, he explains, is that famous hosts start at a completely different line: they already have audiences, money, teams, relationships with big guests, and promotional power. Expecting the same results when you are starting from zero is not only unrealistic, it is deeply unfair to you and to your listeners.Throughout the episode, Dave breaks down how this unfair comparison shows up. New podcasters often believe landing big-name guests will make them famous, forgetting that well-known guests usually want big platforms, not shows with ten or twenty downloads. Celebrity hosts are often talking to people they already know, while most beginners have neither those relationships nor the reach to attract similar guests. Chasing that model leads to frustration, rejection, and the false belief that their podcast is failing, when the real problem is a mismatched expectation.He also highlights the danger of trying to match celebrity-level production on a zero budget. Big shows rely on large teams, professional studios, multiple cameras, editors, marketers, and ad revenue that fuels everything. In contrast, many new podcasters are sitting at home in pajama pants with free software and no money coming in. Trying to jump straight into animated video, elaborate visuals, and complicated production without resources just piles on pressure and disappointment. Instead of copying the outcome of those shows, Dave urges creators to focus on what they can actually control: a clear value proposition, a consistent format, audience-led content, and smart, simple production that fits their reality.Platform visibility is another unfair comparison he tackles. Apps and algorithms promote big-name podcasts because that’s where the money is, leaving new shows with five downloads nowhere near the “Top 100” charts. Measuring yourself against that level of exposure makes small podcasters feel invisible and discouraged. Dave argues that indie creators actually have an advantage the big shows don’t: the ability to personally connect with listeners, invite them for virtual coffees, respond to messages, and build genuine relationships that are impossible at scale. The real power of a small show lies in depth, authenticity, and trust, not in inflated numbers.Dave closes by calling out one more subtle danger: obsessing over stats and comparing numbers with other shows. Staring at early download counts is like watching seeds you just planted, waiting for them to sprout. It doesn’t help them grow and only fuels anxiety. He recommends ignoring stats at the very beginning, focusing instead on getting good at podcasting, refining the message, and serving listeners well. The only comparison that matters, he says, is between your last episode and your next one. As a final invitation, he opens his calendar to listeners, modeling the kind of one-to-one connection that truly sets smaller podcasters apart.Key takeaway for listeners: Comparing your new podcast to top celebrity shows is not a fair or useful benchmark. You don’t share their fame, budget, team, or platform support, and trying to copy their model will only erode your confidence and shortchange your audience. Instead, measure your progress against your own past work, build slowly and authentically, and lean into the unique advantage you have as a smaller creator: the ability to truly know, serve, and connect with your listeners one person at a time.____https://howtopodcast.ca/

Episode 519 - Uncommon Leadership Interview Series With CO-HOST Michael HunterIn this episode, Dave chats with Michael Hunter, host of The Uncommon Leadership Podcast, about leading with authenticity, structure, and play. Recording from the heart of the Midwest, Michael reflects on nearing his 100th episode and how a microverse format where a past guest interviews him keeps conversations lively and egalitarian. He plans to rotate this format every so often to keep things fresh and fun.Michael explains that simplicity and whimsy can coexist with depth. He shares how he built a brand with local help, naming color families and crafting visuals that feel true to his approach. The core idea is that leadership is not about suppressing emotion or erasing personality, but about bringing the whole self to work in a safe, constructive way. In Michael’s view, everyone on a team is a potential leader, whether or not their title says so, because good leadership happens in how ideas are heard, refined, and enacted.The conversation then dives into practical podcasting structure. Michael started with loose questions but found that a predictable framework helps guide spontaneous dialogue. He now uses a starter question plus three follow ups that weave naturally into the conversation. He stresses that the goal is a deep, collaborative exchange rather than a rigid Q and A. Feedback from guests reinforces the value of preparation, including pre meetings to align expectations and pacing.On the topic of growth, Michael emphasizes that fear and uncertainty are universal. Even seasoned hosts and guests stumble, but that stumble is part of the process. He encourages listeners to view every journey as valid, with progress often seen through storytelling and shared experiences. Stories help translate technical or abstract concepts into relatable lessons, enabling listeners to apply insights in their own lives.Closing reflections hinge on relationship and intention. The world needs the listener’s presence, and showing up authentically creates opportunities for joy and learning. Michael invites audiences to explore his work at uncommonteams.com and on YouTube, where the most recent episode often represents his strongest work yet. The central message is clear leadership starts with a willingness to bring one’s unique self forward and to invite others to do the same.Key Takeaway: True leadership emerges when the full self is brought into every space, balanced with thoughtful structure and playful curiosity.https://uncommonteams.com/___https://howtopodcast.ca/

Spotify Wrapped Data for 2025 for The How To Podcast Series - The Daily Dave - Podcasting TipsDave, celebrates the impressive growth of the show in 2025 revealed through Spotify Wrapped data. Dave shares excitement about the podcast’s 712% audience growth and its rising global reach—including top listener countries like the US, Canada, Australia, the UK, and Iceland. Despite this success, a key concern is the relatively low follower rate of just 14%, prompting a heartfelt call for listeners to follow the show to help it grow even more.Dave highlights specific episodes that resonated deeply with the audience, such as episode 392, which saw a 293% increase in listens due to its focus on the rhythm and speed of speech. Episode 444 also stood out as it sparked the most comments, showcasing active listener engagement. The podcast consistently outperforms many others in listener retention, comments, and shares, reflecting strong community connection and valuable content.The episode encourages new and aspiring podcasters to start their own shows in 2026 without hesitation, emphasizing that the only thing they lack is experience, which comes from taking action rather than endless planning. Dave offers ongoing support through his community and direct access to his calendar for guidance, rejecting high-cost courses and unnecessary hurdles. This episode is a motivational push to launch podcasts with real momentum, build community, and harness the power of voice to connect globally.Key takeaway for listeners: Following the podcast is crucial—beyond just listening, subscribing ensures you never miss an episode and helps grow the show's reach. More importantly, taking the step to start podcasting in 2026, leveraging the supportive community and resources available, can turn dreams into reality with action being the ultimate driver of success.Overall, this episode combines celebration, insightful data from Spotify Wrapped, and an inspiring call to action for both current followers and those on the fence about podcasting, making it a meaningful and encouraging listen for anyone interested in podcasting’s power and community.___https://howtopodcast.ca/

Episode 518 - The Pod Savvy Guide to Podcasting, Audience Engagement, Growth, Tools and Connection with CO-HOST Steph ShoellIn this lively and insightful episode, Steph Shoell, an accomplished podcast producer and community advocate, joins as guest co-host to share her expertise on building engaging podcasts without burning out. Steph, a founding member and former president of the Utah Podcast Coalition, brings a wealth of experience supporting podcasters through education, collaboration, and practical tools.Steph talks about the origins of her own podcast, Pod Savvy Guide, which she started to simplify podcasting for both beginners and seasoned creators. She shares the persona behind the show — a friendly and approachable guide who offers bite-sized challenges and time-saving hacks, including AI and automation tips, to help podcasters grow and connect with their audiences.The conversation explores the importance of community in podcasting. Steph describes how engaging directly with listeners through tools like Instagram stories and SpeakPipe voice messages can build deep, meaningful connections. She highlights the incredible moments when listeners respond personally, sharing stories that remind podcasters there are real people touched by their content.Steph also discusses overcoming challenges many podcasters face — from fear of getting started to feeling overwhelmed by statistics or technology. She encourages creators to define what “growth” means personally, emphasizing that connection depth and audience retention are just as important as numbers. She shares advice on how to nurture a friendly and connected listener community, especially when audiences are still small.Intriguing examples, like how podcast content helped save a listener's life and how listener generosity supported a new podcaster’s conference trip, illustrate the true power of podcasting beyond simple metrics. Throughout, Steph’s enthusiasm and personal stories make it clear that podcasting is more than content creation — it’s about human connection, storytelling, and impact.Listeners will also find practical tips on starting solo episodes, using video and audio formats effectively, and leveraging tools like Riverside FM for easier recording and editing. Steph discusses how launching and sustaining a local podcasting group has lifted her confidence and knowledge, fueling her ongoing passion.The episode closes with a call to action — podcasters should build relationships one listener at a time, celebrate every small success, and stay focused on the “why” behind their shows. Steph’s Pod Savvy Guide is recommended as a rich resource to keep learning and stay motivated on the podcasting journey.Key Takeaway:Building a successful podcast is less about chasing stats and more about fostering genuine connections. Engaging directly with listeners, embracing community, and focusing on personal growth create a podcast that resonates deeply with audiences and sustains creators through challenges.Connect with Steph Shoell:Podcast: Pod Savvy Guidehttps://pod.link/1733663277Instagram - Pod Savvy Guide | Podcast Help (@stephshoell)____https://howtopodcast.ca/

Episode 517 - Podcasting Lessons from Think Faster, Talk Smarter by Matt AbrahamsEpisode Description (Show Notes):As a podcast host, you’re often put on the spot - reacting to guests, filling in gaps, or pivoting when things don’t go as planned. In this episode, we’re unpacking key lessons from Matt Abrahams’ book Think Faster, Talk Smarter and translating them into practical strategies you can apply to your podcast.Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:How to manage mic anxiety so you sound calm and confident before hitting record.Simple frameworks to organize your thoughts and keep conversations flowing.Why active listening is your most powerful tool for creating deeper guest connections.The secret to using pauses effectively without fearing dead air.Ways to practice improvisation so you’re ready for unexpected turns.How to keep your delivery clear and concise so listeners stay engaged.Engagement techniques like storytelling and audience questions to make your show more dynamic.Why reflection and feedback are the fastest paths to becoming a stronger host.Whether you host interviews, solo episodes, or panel discussions, these lessons will help you think on your feet, improve your flow, and create a more engaging experience for your audience.Takeaway: The best podcast hosts aren’t perfect - they’re present, adaptable, and intentional. These strategies will help you sharpen your skills and connect with your audience in a more authentic way.Grab a copy of the book via our Amazon link:https://amzn.to/45V9ymR___https://howtopodcast.ca/