Podcast Summary: Revolutions – "Stage Three Launch" Episode Release Date: October 21, 2024

Introduction: A New Beginning

In the "Stage Three Launch" episode of Revolutions, host Mike Duncan announces a significant transformation for the podcast as it embarks on its 12th season. After a nearly two-year hiatus, Duncan returns with exciting updates that mark the beginning of "stage three" in his prolific career. Reflecting on his journey, Duncan shares, “this was always going to happen. It was always the plan. It was not a matter of if, but when” (00:02).

Advertising Overhaul: Embracing Industry Changes

One of the primary focuses of this episode is the overhaul of the podcast's advertising strategy. Duncan explains the shift from pre-roll to mid-roll advertisements in new episodes, aligning with current industry trends. He states, “midroll ads are what advertisers really want” (00:30), highlighting the increased revenue opportunities they present. These mid-roll ads will be host-read and seamlessly integrated into the script to maintain listener engagement.

For the extensive back catalog of Revolutions and The History of Rome, Duncan introduces programmatic ads. He reassures listeners, “the episodes will still be free and available to everybody” (01:15), but notes that new programmatic ads will replace the old pre-rolls. This change aims to modernize the listening experience while ensuring the shows remain accessible.

Introducing Patreon: Ad-Free Listening and Exclusive Content

To cater to listeners who prefer an uninterrupted experience, Duncan announces the launch of Patreon feeds for both Revolutions and The History of Rome. Subscribers will gain access to ad-free episodes, as Duncan emphasizes, “intro music, then content, intro music, then content” (02:00), stripping away all advertisements from the listening experience.

Beyond ad-free content, the Patreon tiers will offer exclusive bonuses such as Q&A episodes, behind-the-scenes insights, and potentially live feeds for real-time interaction. This initiative responds to long-time listeners’ requests, with Duncan noting, “people have been asking me to do this forever” (02:45).

Merchandise Launch: Expanding the Brand

Expanding his offerings, Duncan introduces a permanent merchandise store set to launch alongside the Patreon. Available just in time for the holidays, the store will feature a variety of items including shirts, sweatshirts, bags, pint glasses, and tumblers. Duncan highlights the return of beloved designs, mentioning favorites like the “Olivia did it” shirt and the “God told me to tell you that property is theft” digger shirt (03:30). This move not only caters to fans’ desires for branded merchandise but also provides an additional revenue stream to support the podcasts.

Upcoming Projects: Duncan and Company Show

In addition to enhancing Revolutions, Duncan shares exciting news about the continuation of the Duncan and Company history show, co-hosted with Alexis Ko. Despite previous delays, the show is now back on track with new episodes being recorded regularly. Duncan remarks, “The Duncan and Company show is very much alive and kicking” (04:15), expressing enthusiasm for this new venture and its role in expanding his podcasting portfolio.

Conclusion: Embracing Stage Three

As the episode wraps up, Duncan succinctly summarizes the key updates:

• Advertising: Transition to mid-roll ads in new episodes and programmatic ads in the back catalog.
• Patreon: Ad-free access to all episodes and exclusive bonus content.
• Merchandise: Launch of a permanent store with a wide range of branded products.
• New Show: Revival of the Duncan and Company history podcast.

With these changes, Duncan confidently declares, “Stage three, Make Rocket go now” (05:10), signaling a bold new chapter for Revolutions and his broader podcasting endeavors. Listeners can look forward to a more sustainable, engaging, and multifaceted experience as Mike Duncan continues to explore and narrate the revolutions that shape our world.

Key Quotes:

• “This was always going to happen. It was always the plan. It was not a matter of if, but when.” – Mike Duncan (00:02)
• “Midroll ads are what advertisers really want.” – Mike Duncan (00:30)
• “The episodes will still be free and available to everybody.” – Mike Duncan (01:15)
• “Intro music, then content, intro music, then content.” – Mike Duncan (02:00)
• “People have been asking me to do this forever.” – Mike Duncan (02:45)
• “The Duncan and Company show is very much alive and kicking.” – Mike Duncan (04:15)
• “Stage three, Make Rocket go now.” – Mike Duncan (05:10)

For those unfamiliar with Revolutions, this episode marks a pivotal moment in the podcast’s evolution, blending Mike Duncan’s expertise in historical analysis with innovative strategies to enhance listener engagement and support.