Jaws Turns 50: What That Shark Can Teach Us About Podcasting

The burning question on every wannabe podcaster's mind: do I really need a podcast coach? Spoiler alert: no, you don’t *have* to have one, and you could just jump in, flail around, and figure things out for yourself. But let’s be real for a sec. Imagine setting off on a cross-country road trip without a GPS. Sure, you could just guess which way is west, but wouldn’t it be easier to have a reliable map guiding you? That’s what a coach can do for your podcasting journey. They help you dodge the potholes of bad equipment choices, terrible hosting services, and the dreaded burnout that comes from setting completely unrealistic goals. If you want to avoid looking like a podcasting rookie who doesn’t know the difference between a media host and a media hoax, a coach can be your best friend. Even legends like Oprah and Michael Phelps have coaches. So, if you want to level up your podcast game and not just play in the kiddie pool, maybe consider getting a coach. But hey, if you want to go it alone, just know you’ll be doing a lot of guessing along the way.Takeaways: You only need a coach if you want to avoid mistakes. Hiring a coach can save you from buying the wrong gear and using the wrong platforms. Just like GPS helps you avoid traffic, a podcast coach can guide you through common pitfalls. Even big names like Oprah and Bill Gates have coaches, so maybe there's something to it after all! A good coach helps refine your goals and keeps you accountable, which is pretty darn useful. Without a coach, you might just be wandering around like a lost puppy in the podcasting world. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Jumping into the world of YouTube isn’t just about pointing a camera and chatting away. Sure, that sounds like a walk in the park, but it’s actually more like a hike up a mountain with a backpack full of gear. You’ll need a decent camera, lighting that doesn’t make you look like a ghost, and let’s not forget the audio – because, believe me, if your audio is garbage, you might as well be not start video. Everyone’s quick to say, ‘Oh, it’s easy!’ But if you want to grow your channel, it’s not just about slapping some content together; it’s about your thumbnail, your title, and that all-important first 30 seconds that keeps viewers from bolting faster than a cat from a cucumber. If you're not doing that for your audio it is more work.And don’t even get me started on the thumbnails! You think you can just throw any old picture up there and call it a day? Nope! It’s got to be eye-catching, intriguing, and maybe a tad clickbaity to get those lazy viewers to stop scrolling and actually watch. You know, the kind of thumbnail that screams, ‘Click me! I’m more interesting than your ex’s new partner!’ So, while you’re busy filming your masterpiece, make sure you’re also crafting a title that promises something juicy. After all, that title is like a promise to your listeners and if you don’t deliver, guess what? They’re not coming back.A Video StrategyTo really make your mark on YouTube, it’s about strategy, baby! Think of it as a game of chess where every move counts. You need to plan your title, thumbnail, and hook like your channel depends on it – because it does! And if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the thought of it all, don’t worry; even the pros use tools like Vidiq to help them navigate the chaotic waters of YouTube. So, buckle up, get that gear ready, and remember: it’s not just about talking into a camera; it’s about crafting an experience that your audience will want to dive into headfirst. Happy filming!Takeaways: YouTube can be a blast if you have the time and budget, but it's a lot of work! People think recording video is just talking into a camera, but oh boy, it's way more complex! To really grow on YouTube, you gotta focus on the title, thumbnail, and first 30 seconds, not just the content. Don't underestimate how much effort goes into making a good thumbnail; it can make or break your video! Audio is king, but in video, the thumbnail and title are your best friends, so don't ignore them! MentionedSchool of PodcastingVid IQ (aff)Mentioned in this episode:Is Your Podcast Not Growing?Struggling to grow your podcast beyond friends and family? You're not alone. I've been there too. That's why I created "10 Proven Strategies to Grow Your Podcast Audience" - a free guide packed with actionable techniques that have helped countless podcasters expand their reach and build loyal listener communities. Stop guessing what works. These are battle-tested methods used by top podcasters who speak to engaged audiences every week. Head to schoolofpodcasting.com/10tips now and download the free guide because your podcast deserves to be heard.10 TipsThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Launching a podcast without a domain? Yeah, that’s a big no-no. It’s like trying to adopt a puppy and then saying, “Hey, where’s the leash?” In this episode, we tackle the absolute must-have of podcasting—your own domain name. You want people to find your adorable little show, right? So, let’s make sure they have a place to go when they ask, “Where’s your podcast?” We dish out the wisdom on why having your own website is the best way to keep your podcast from going missing. Grab your notepad because we’re about to dive into some seriously practical tips!Links referenced in this episode:Namecheap - Buy a domainCoolerwebsites - Another place to buy a domainpodcastconsultant.comschoolofpodcasting.comschoolofpodcasting.com/checklistschoolofpodcasting.com/startTakeaways: Launching a podcast without a domain is like having a puppy with no leash—totally chaotic. Your website is your podcast's home base; don't send people to a third-party link. Buying a domain is cheap insurance against losing your brand to someone else—trust me. If your friends ask for your podcast and you say you don't have a domain, well, good luck with that. Always set up easy-to-remember links for your podcast, or risk sounding like a total noob. Domains are only $20 a year, which is less than that fancy coffee you keep buying. Mentioned in this episode:Your Voice is Your LegacyYou have lived things that need to be heard. You can help other people, and I'm here to help. Don't let your story die within you, release your legacy today and start your podcast. I've helped hundreds (thousands?) of podcasters and I can help you. It's time to do it.School of PodcastingThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

So, you’ve taken a long break from your podcast—like a “I forgot how to talk to a mic” kind of break—and now you’re wondering how to get back in the game. Well, I’m here to explain on how to restart without losing your marbles or your listeners. First off, if you ditched your show for a while, don’t sweat it! Just let your audience know you’re back and ready to rock. No need for a dramatic apology; they might not even remember why you vanished. Seriously, just dive back in, figure out what you want to change, and remember—it’s all about having fun while you’re at it! So, grab your mic, dust off the cobwebs, and let’s get this party started again!Takeaways: Taking a break from your podcast might seem like a good idea, but it often leads to losing your audience to better shows. When returning to your podcast, remember, no one wants to hear a long apology; just get to the good stuff! If your podcast went on hiatus for years, you might need to reevaluate why it didn't work and how to do better this time. It's perfectly fine to come back to podcasting just for fun, and you don't have to monetize everything! When you're ready to return, just jump right back in—your audience will be thrilled you've come back! Don't stress about starting over; focus on how to make your podcast better than before! Mentioned in this episode:We Make Good Shows Better - Your Audience Will Thank YouPodcastHotSeat.com is the ultimate coaching experience for podcasters who want actionable feedback to take their show to the next level. Whether you want to refine your content, improve audience engagement, or enhance your production quality, the Podcast Hot Seat provides expert insights and a supportive environment to help you grow. Join the hot seat and watch your podcast thrive!Podcas Hot SeatThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Turning 50 is a big deal, especially for a classic like Jaws, and boy, does it have a lot to teach us about podcasting. Picture this: a film that was barely held together by duct tape and creativity, yet it became a cultural phenomenon. The behind-the-scenes drama? A mechanical shark that was more trouble than it was worth and a filming schedule that doubled in time. But instead of throwing in the towel, Steven Spielberg and crew got creative. They used suspense, killer music, and a whole lot of storytelling to keep audiences on the edge of their seats. So, what’s the takeaway for us podcasters? Just like the Jaws team had to adapt, we can make magic with what we've got, even if our gear isn't top-notch. We don’t need the fanciest mics or perfect lighting to tell our stories — sometimes, limitations spark the most creativity. So grab that old mic, hit record, and let’s make something awesome!Takeaways: Sometimes, not having everything you need can spark more creativity than you think. Jaws was a mess behind the scenes but turned into a classic anyway, so chill! If Spielberg can make a shark out of a broken toy, you can too! Starting small with what you have can lead to amazing skills and growth. Your podcast journey doesn’t need fancy gear; it needs your unique voice. Creativity often thrives in the chaos of not having everything perfectly lined up. Mentionedschoolofpodcasting.com/joinJaws at 50 TrailerThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

So, you’re stuck reading a script for your podcast and it feels as exciting as watching paint dry, huh? Well, let's shake things up! The key here is to stop sounding like a robot and start talking like a human. We’re getting into how to ditch that crutch of a script and get comfortable just chatting it up. You’ll learn to write like you talk—because, spoiler alert, we don’t actually talk like we write. Trust me, it’s all about knowing your material and letting your personality shine through. So grab a seat and let’s figure out how to make your podcast sound less like a school recital and more like a fun convo with your best buddy!Mentioned In This EpisodeWalton Goggins on the Best Acting Advice He’s Ever Received VideoSchool of PodcastingTakeaways: Stop being a robot! Ditch the script and just chat like a normal human being. Writing a script is cool, but remember: we don't talk like we write, so loosen up! Practice makes perfect, even if it feels like torture at first. Just keep talking! Scripts can become crutches, so toss them aside and embrace the chaos of conversation! Make your podcast sound like a chat over coffee, not a corporate presentation. Be real! Editing is your best friend; don't stress about getting it perfect on the first try! Mentioned in this episode:Your Voice is Your LegacyYou have lived things that need to be heard. You can help other people, and I'm here to help. Don't let your story die within you, release your legacy today and start your podcast. I've helped hundreds (thousands?) of podcasters and I can help you. It's time to do it.School of PodcastingThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

We dive into the world of podcasting domains like pros (or at least like folks who pretend to know what they’re talking about). I mean, have you ever tried to switch your podcast domain? It’s like moving your entire life, but instead of packing boxes, you’re just messing with a bunch of technical stuff that could totally break your show. We're talking about RSS feeds, redirects, and all that nerdy mumbo-jumbo that sounds way more complicated than it really is. I’m here to spill the secrets and save you from a catastrophic podcast meltdown. Using Your Media Host's WebsiteTrust me, I've seen it all: people pointing their domains at their media host’s site without even knowing they’re setting themselves up for disaster. Spoiler alert: it’s not pretty. So, grab your favorite drink, sit back, and let’s get into how to avoid the pitfalls of podcasting domain changes. RSS Feeds are the Blood of Your ShowLet’s talk about the nitty-gritty of RSS feeds. These are basically your podcast's lifeline, like the signal you tune into when you want to catch your favorite radio station. You see, if you ever decide to switch from one media host to another (hint: you probably will), you need to know how to handle your RSS feed. It’s like changing your address but for your podcast. You want your listeners to still find you without realizing you’ve moved to a new place. I’ll walk you through the process of getting your raw RSS feed, the one that’s not tied to your media host, so you can easily transition without losing your loyal fans. Seriously, nobody wants to lose their audience because they made a rookie mistake while trying to look cool by having a slick new website. So, let’s avoid that, shall we? Grab your notebooks, folks—this is some valuable stuff.You Will Outgrow the "Starter" Website QuicklyAnd of course, I can’t stress enough the importance of having your own website for your podcast. Sure, you might think a simple page from your media host is all you need, but trust me, you’ll outgrow that faster than a toddler in a pair of shoes. It’s all about future-proofing your podcasting journey, and I’m here to make sure you don’t end up in a bind down the line. We’ll chat about the best ways to set up a website that not only looks good but also serves your podcast like a trusty sidekick. Plus, I’ve got some tips on how to navigate the sometimes murky waters of tech support when things go wrong. So if you’re ready to get your podcast off the ground without hitting any major speed bumps, stick around. I’ll even throw in my contact info because I’m that nice. Let’s make your podcast the best it can be, shall we?Want More Content? You might check out Should I Move to a Different Media Host?Links referenced in this episode:podcastconsultant.comschoolofpodcasting.comCaptivate Media HostingNamecheap (great place to buy a domain)Coolerwebsites (Domains and Hosting)301 Redirects in Action VideoTakeaways: If you want to avoid a massive headache, think carefully about your domain before launching your podcast. Your RSS feed is basically your podcast's radio signal, so don't...

Ever wondered how to pull off a call-in show when your co-host is chilling in another state? Well, I'm here to spill the beans on my chaotic journey of figuring out this wild ride. Spoiler alert: it’s not all rainbows and butterflies, especially when echoes and pranksters come into play. I’ll share my secret sauce, which includes some fancy gear, a dash of sarcasm, and a whole lot of learning from my epic fails. So grab your headphones and let's dive into the absurdity of live podcasting, where the only thing more unpredictable than the callers is… well, everything else!Mentioned in This EpisodeRodecaster DuoRodecaster ProEcamm LiveEvmuxaskthepodcastcoach.com/livepodcastconsultant.com/voicemailschoolofpodcasting.comTakeaways: So, you want to do a call-in show but are not in the same room? Good luck with that. It's a whole circus act, but it's totally doable! You'd better invest in some decent gear because mixing audio for a remote call-in show is like trying to juggle flaming torches while blindfolded. If you think your audience will call in with questions, surprise! They're more likely to just drop comments in the chat and run with it. Live streaming is a wild ride. One minute, you're answering questions, the next, you're kicking out pranksters like it's a reality TV show. Links referenced in this episode:Mentioned in this episode:UNLIMITED One-On-One CoachingAre you struggling to grow your podcast or turn your ideas into a show that stands out? With over 20 years of experience, Hall of Fame podcaster Dave Jackson offers one-on-one coaching designed to fast-track your success. Whether you're launching, refining, or scaling your podcast, Dave cuts through the noise with expert insights, proven strategies, and personalized guidance. Avoid costly mistakes, master your message, and build an engaged audience—without being overwhelmed. Ready to make your podcast impossible to ignore? Let’s make it happenSchool of PodcastingThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Adding images to your media host show notes? Yeah, that’s a recipe for disaster. I mean, picture this: you drop a brand new episode, and instead of a visually stunning experience, your notes look like a digital explosion. Not cute, right? So, let’s get real – I’m here to help you understand why keeping those images on your website is the best strategy. Trust me, your podcast will thank you, and you won’t be left with formatting chaos that makes your show look like a toddler designed it. Seriously, stick to the basics and keep your audience engaged without the visual mess!Takeaways: Adding images directly into your media host can turn your show notes into a chaotic mess. If you want your podcast to look good, stick to plain formatting in your notes. Images should live on your website, where you can control the chaos they might cause elsewhere. Using images in media hosts is like inviting a tornado to a picnic—totally unnecessary and a bit ridiculous. Your podcast show notes should entice listeners to visit your website, not confuse them with weird formatting. To boost your SEO, keep images on your blog and link them well with your episodes (or add them to your show notes once they hit your website).Mentioned In This EpisodeAn article on how podcasts render in different apps.School of PodcastingMentioned in this episode:Is Your Podcast Not Growing?Struggling to grow your podcast beyond friends and family? You're not alone. I've been there too. That's why I created "10 Proven Strategies to Grow Your Podcast Audience" - a free guide packed with actionable techniques that have helped countless podcasters expand their reach and build loyal listener communities. Stop guessing what works. These are battle-tested methods used by top podcasters who speak to engaged audiences every week. Head to schoolofpodcasting.com/10tips now and download the free guide because your podcast deserves to be heard.10 TipsThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Let's chat about the biggest red flag when it comes to podcast guests: the obsession with audience size. Seriously, if the first thing a potential guest wants to know is how many downloads your show gets, it’s a major warning sign. It’s like they’re only interested in what they can milk out of your audience, rather than the value they can bring. Today I look at why that’s a total turn-off and how the best guests focus on delivering value instead of just self-promotion. We also share some hilarious stories about awkward guest interactions, and trust me, you’ll be cringing and laughing at the same time. It’s a wild ride through the absurdity of podcasting dynamics that’ll have you shaking your head in disbelief.Takeaways: Bad podcast guests often only care about their own promotion and not yours. When looking for podcast guests, focus on whether they can add value to your audience. The first question from a guest shouldn't be about your audience size, it's a huge red flag. A good guest will want to know about your audience, not just how big it is. Building relationships after interviews is key; don’t let it be a one-off thing. Grow your influence through solo shows and your network through interviews, that’s the game. Links referenced in this episode:podmatch.compodcastguests.comschoolofpodcasting.comMentioned in this episode:Is Your Podcast Not Growing?Struggling to grow your podcast beyond friends and family? You're not alone. I've been there too. That's why I created "10 Proven Strategies to Grow Your Podcast Audience" - a free guide packed with actionable techniques that have helped countless podcasters expand their reach and build loyal listener communities. Stop guessing what works. These are battle-tested methods used by top podcasters who speak to engaged audiences every week. Head to schoolofpodcasting.com/10tips now and download the free guide because your podcast deserves to be heard.10 TipsThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy