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

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

In this episode, we look at essential strategies for fitting podcasting into a hectic schedule. Whether you're balancing a full-time job, family, or other commitments, maintaining consistency in podcast creation can be challenging. I share time management hacks and scheduling tips tailored for busy podcasters like you.Episode Highlights:Introduction to Consistent Podcasting: Why consistency matters and how it can enhance your connection with your audience.Understanding Your Time: Learn the importance of tracking your time with tools like Clockify to gain insight into your current scheduling habits.Scheduling Strategies: Discover practical advice on how to effectively incorporate podcasting into a busy life. Learn how to adjust your podcasting schedule based on your available time, not the other way around.Balancing Act: Get tips on how to balance podcasting with personal commitments, ensuring you don't sacrifice essential aspects of your life.Flexible Podcast Scheduling: Explore options for podcast frequency, such as bi-weekly or monthly episodes, and understand why it's okay to choose a schedule that works for you.Avoiding Burnout: I discuss the risks of overcommitting and share strategies to prevent burnout by maintaining a healthy work-life-podcast balance.Ready to Start Podcasting? Consider signing up for the School of Podcasting to get tailored advice and support. Use the coupon code 'listener' for a membership discount, available in monthly, quarterly, or yearly plans.Listener Resources:Clockify: A time-tracking tool to help manage your podcasting schedule.School of Podcasting: Visit the School of Podcasting for more resources and to sign up using the discount code 'listener'.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

So, someone on Reddit wrote, “My podcast stinks,” and I think we should talk about it. Spoiler alert: just because your download numbers are low doesn’t mean your podcast is a total flop—like, it’s not the end of the world if you’re not raking in those big numbers. We chat about how it’s not just about the content but also the delivery, because if your audio sounds like it’s coming from a tin can, uh, good luck with that! We also throw around some ideas on getting feedback, practicing your craft, and remembering your “why” behind podcasting. So, grab your headphones and let’s chat about how to make sure your podcast doesn’t suck—unless that’s your goal, in which case, carry on!RedditReddit is a wild place, huh? So, some poor soul decided to air their podcast grievances and proclaimed, 'my podcast stinks!' Cue the collective gasp from the podcasting community. But instead of spiraling into despair, we examine what this actually means for podcasters everywhere. I mean, who defines success anyway? Our conversation kicks off by flipping the script on the typical podcasting narrative. We chat about how every download counts, even if it's just your mom and your dog tuning in. If you’ve ever thought about throwing in the towel because your download numbers look like the score of a bad baseball game, we’ve got some comforting truths for you. Your show could be a massive success if it brings you joy, which is really what matters, right? Your Podcast Is A JourneyThen we tackle some serious podcasting wisdom. If your audience is only a handful of people, that’s still a gathering! It's like playing to a room full of friends who actually want to hear what you have to say. We argue about the importance of content and delivery, because let’s face it, you could have the most riveting subject matter, but if it sounds like you recorded it in a tin can, good luck keeping anyone around. I offer some tips on spicing things up, like practicing your delivery (yes, even if it feels like talking to yourself in the mirror). Let’s be honest, we all need to keep sharpening our skills. And naturally, we can’t resist discussing the age-old podcasting dilemma: why are you even doing this? If your goal is to have fun, then congratulations! You’re winning! But if you’re in it for fame and fortune without a plan, well, you might want to rethink your strategy. The episode wraps up with some encouragement to get feedback and engage with your audience—because who knows, they might just love that thing you think is a total flop! So tune in and let’s redefine success together. Takeaways: Just because your podcast isn't on the charts doesn't mean it’s a flop; success looks different for everyone. If you’re podcasting for fun and enjoying the process, then congratulations, you’re winning at life! Your show might be reaching just a handful of listeners, but hey, those are still real humans tuning in, right? Feeling like your podcast stinks? Maybe it’s time to ask for some honest feedback from friends or fellow podcasters. Tired of low download numbers? Remember, it takes time to grow an audience; patience is key, my friend! Practicing your delivery is like stretching before a workout; it makes all the difference for your podcasting game. Companies mentioned in this episode: Reddit School of Podcasting <a...

So, you're having trouble getting guests on your podcast? That can be frustrating. But have you taken a good look at your website lately? Because sometimes the issue isn’t your pitch—it’s your presentation. If your site looks like it hasn’t been updated since the MySpace days, it could be sending the wrong message. In this episode, we’re taking a closer look at podcast websites and how a few simple mistakes could be turning off potential guests before they even hear your show. Don’t worry—we’ll walk through how to clean things up so your site gives off the kind of professional vibe that makes people say, “Yes, I’d love to be on your show!”Takeaways: If you're struggling to attract guests, your website might look like it's from 2005. First impressions matter, and if your podcast artwork is a mess, good luck attracting guests. Your website needs to be user-friendly because if it looks terrible, guests will run away. Using outdated hosting platforms can scream 'I'm not serious about my podcast', so step it up! Your audio quality matters; if it sounds like you're in a cave, no one will sign up. Make it easy for potential guests to follow your show; if they can't find you, they won't come. The "Set it and forget it" player hurts your podcast growth. Links referenced in this episode:podmatch.compodcasthotseat.combuzzsprout.compodpage.comVideo of me choosing shows.Join the 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

Growing your newsletter can feel like trying to find a needle in a haystack, right? But fear not, because I've got a strategy that’s so simple, you might just roll your eyes and think it can’t be real. Spoiler alert: it is. We can use Google Analytics (or Fathom stats) to figure out which pages on your website are actually getting some love. Trust me, you might be shocked to discover that old blog post from 2019 is still raking in the clicks while your latest masterpiece is gathering virtual dust. Once you've identified those star pages, it’s time to get crafty and whip up a quick cheat sheet or lead magnet. Who doesn’t love a freebie? You can easily create a PDF that people can’t resist signing up for, even if it’s just a glorified summary of your blog. And yes, I did have a moment where I wondered if people even realize they can bookmark a page, but hey, if they want a PDF, who am I to judge? Now that you’ve snagged their emails, you can start sending them all the fabulous stuff you’ve got up your sleeve, from show updates to special offers, all while feeling like a total marketing genius. It’s like getting a backstage pass to your own show!Takeaways: Having a newsletter is super powerful, but growing it can feel like a full-time job. Using Google Analytics can help you pinpoint your website's top pages for better engagement. Creating lead magnets from top-performing content is a total game-changer for email sign-ups. It's wild how a simple PDF request can boost your newsletter subscribers overnight. Social media is like a tiny trickle compared to the flood of potential from a newsletter. Invest some time to set up your stats and watch your audience grow—no magic wand required. ReferencesGoogle AnalyticsFathom StatsJoin the 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