Podcast
The How To Podcast Series - Podcast Co-Hosts, Practical Podcast Tips, and Podcast Community
Hosted by Dave Campbell - Podcast Coach, Cheerleader and Podcast Community Advocate · EN
Welcome to The How To Podcast Series — your guide to podcasting success! Join host Dave Campbell and rotating guest co-hosts for practical tips on podcasting. Learn podcasting SEO, audience growth, guest booking, audio setup, social media marketing, and hosting platform suggestions. Get real-world advice, Podcasting Tips, creative inspiration, and the confidence to build your podcast community. Podcast smarter — your journey starts here! Join our free Podcast Community on Meetup to meet fellow listeners and podcasters at all different levels - HowToPodcast.ca is your home for podcasting!
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E687 - We Ask Ralph About Podcasting, The Business of Podcasting and Content Creation with Guest CO-HOST Ralph Estep Jr.
Today00:48:36Summary readyEpisode 687 - We Ask Ralph About Podcasting, The Business of Podcasting and Content Creation with Guest CO-HOST Ralph Estep Jr.This episode offers an honest and wide ranging conversation with Ralph Estep about podcasting, business, faith, burnout, and the importance of building real relationships through content creation. Ralph shares how his journey began as an accountant looking for exposure for his firm, eventually leading him into podcasting through AM radio and later into creating multiple audio and video shows. Along the way, he opens up about the burnout that caused him to step away from content creation before eventually returning with a renewed sense of purpose.A major turning point came during a visit to Dachau in Germany, where Ralph reflects on how standing in such a historic and emotional place challenged him to think differently about his life, his faith, and the impact he wanted to make on others. That experience inspired him to relaunch his content with a stronger mission centered around helping people become financially confident while also encouraging them through life’s struggles.Throughout the conversation, Ralph explains how podcasting is ultimately about relationships and serving real people rather than chasing download numbers or overnight success. He discusses the importance of understanding your “why,” defining success early, and building systems before ever pressing record. From setting up business accounts and handling taxes properly to avoiding burnout and learning how to connect authentically with an audience, Ralph shares practical lessons learned from both accounting and years of creating content.The episode also explores the growing challenges facing independent creators, including unrealistic expectations around monetization, the pressure created by AI generated content, and the need for creators to remain authentic rather than scripted. Ralph talks openly about the mistakes he made trying to let AI write too much of his content and why speaking honestly from personal experience creates stronger audience connections.Listeners will also hear stories about Ralph’s farm life, his podcasting community experiences, his work helping creators build financial systems, and the relationships he has built through conferences and live shows. At the heart of the discussion is a message about community, consistency, and using your platform to genuinely help people.Key takeaway: Successful podcasting starts with purpose, relationships, and consistency. When creators focus on serving people instead of chasing numbers, they build stronger connections, greater fulfillment, and a foundation that can sustain both their message and their business long term.https://www.askralph.com/https://empoweredpodcasting.com/https://www.podcastingmorningshow.com/____Helping Podcasters Everyday! https://howtopodcast.ca/We would love to hear from you - here is our listener survey!https://forms.gle/GbrFv9DGszV8N4PW6
SummaryE686 - How To Improve Your Podcast Intro Right Now - A Music Lesson for Podcasters
Yesterday00:19:37Summary readyEpisode 686 - How To Improve Your Podcast Intro Right Now - A Music Lesson for PodcastersIn this episode of The How To Podcast Series, host Dave talks about how to make your podcast intro stronger, faster, and more focused so listeners actually stay for the whole episode. He shares a simple musical lesson for podcasters: “Don’t bore us, get us to the chorus.” Dave explains that just like in songs where the chorus is the part people remember and sing along to, your podcast needs to get to the point quickly so listeners feel immediately engaged instead of discouraged or distracted by a long, wandering intro.Dave connects this idea to how people discover content on YouTube and in podcast apps, where creators have only a few seconds to convince someone that this show is for them. He compares podcast intros to the way retail stores are designed to guide shoppers toward products, arguing that podcasters are also “selling” their show by making a clear, welcoming first impression. He encourages hosts to treat the intro like a message to new listeners: explain what the show is, who it’s for, and why it matters, even if long‑time fans are still listening.He also suggests a helpful structure: use the intro to welcome and speak directly to new people and save personal stories, behind‑the‑scenes updates, and calls to action for the outro, where committed listeners are more willing to engage. Dave warns against loading the intro with off‑topic chatter about the weather, dinner, or sports, and instead urges hosts to deliver the value they promised in the title and description as soon as possible. He closes with a reminder that good intros are about respect for the listener’s time and attention, and that tightening up that opening can lead to better retention and a stronger connection with your audience.Key takeaway: Don’t bore people with a long, scattered intro—get to the point fast, like a song going straight to the chorus, and make your first seconds feel like it’s speaking directly to the listener you most want to keep.https://www.npr.org/sections/world-cafe/2022/08/04/1115193723/dont-bore-us-get-to-the-chorus-the-playlist____Helping Podcasters Everyday! https://howtopodcast.ca/We would love to hear from you - here is our listener survey!https://forms.gle/GbrFv9DGszV8N4PW6
SummaryE685 - Podcasters, Make The Podcast That People Want to Hear, Not Just What You Want to Make
2d ago00:20:16Summary readyEpisode 685 - Podcasters, Make The Podcast That People Want to Hear, Not Just What You Want to MakeIn this episode of The How To Podcast Series, host Dave reflects on a powerful idea he heard from Tom Webster on The New Media Show: podcasters need to make the show that people want to hear, not just the show they want to make. Drawing from Tom’s book The Audience is Listening, Dave unpacks what it means to create a podcast that meets a real need, rather than one that exists only for the creator’s personal satisfaction.Dave explains that every podcast exists in a relationship between passion and audience demand. On one side, some creators lean into hyper‑specific, extremely niche topics—like “a show about yellow Lego blocks”—that may be fun for the host but struggle to attract or sustain a meaningful audience. On the other side, other creators chase what is trending or “going viral,” choosing topics they don’t really care about just because they seem popular. In both cases, long‑term growth and genuine connection are hard to achieve.The real sweet spot, Dave argues, is where your passion overlaps with what people are actually asking for. He encourages podcasters to listen to comments, scan forums, and pay attention to recurring questions in their niche. When you notice the same questions or curiosities coming up again and again, you’ve likely found a topic that is in demand. This kind of audience‑driven approach helps you position your show as something that solves problems, answers questions, or fills gaps—rather than just adding noise to the existing content landscape. Dave also highlights the importance of actually engaging with your audience instead of waiting for them to come to you. Whether it’s at a dad event, an author festival, or a local community gathering, he urges podcasters to be the “only podcaster in the room.” By showing up where your ideal listeners already are, you gain insight into their needs and discover fresh episode ideas that naturally align with what your audience wants to hear.Underlying the entire conversation is Tom Webster’s idea that the audience is listening—and that successful podcasting begins with an audience‑first mindset. When you align what you’re passionate about with what people are genuinely interested in, you’re not selling out; you’re tuning in. The key takeaway for listeners is this: create a podcast you believe in, but make sure it exists for people who are searching, asking, and ready to press play.https://audienceislisteningbook.com/Know your audience to grow your audience.You’re a podcaster. You’ve nailed the tech and your topic, but you’re stuck when it comes to growing your audience. There isn’t a single, magical step you can take that will suddenly catapult your podcast into the waiting ears of eager listeners. Instead, you must know the humans you’re talking to on the other end of your microphone.____Helping Podcasters Everyday! https://howtopodcast.ca/We would love to hear from you - here is our listener survey!https://forms.gle/GbrFv9DGszV8N4PW6
SummaryE684 - Leverage Word of Mouth Advertising for Your Podcast by Guesting and How to be a Great Guest - The Daily Dave - Podcasting Tips
3d ago00:16:37Summary readyEpisode 684 - Leverage Word of Mouth Advertising for Your Podcast by Guesting and How to be a Great Guest - The Daily Dave - Podcasting TipsBack with another Daily Dave! Word of mouth is directly responsible for 19 percent of all purchases, and influences as much as 90 percent. Every human on Earth relies on word of mouth to make buying decisions. Yet even today, fewer than one percent of companies have an actual strategy for generating these crucial customer conversations. The key to activating customer chatter is the realization that same is lame. Nobody says "Let me tell you about this perfectly adequate experience I had last night." The strategic, operational differentiator is what gives customers something to tell a story about. Podcasters must dare to be different and exceed expectations in one or more palpable ways. That's when word of mouth becomes involuntary: The customers of these businesses simply must tell someone else.Let your podcast be the topic of discussion when you are not even in the room! Get the power of Word of Mouth Marketing working for you to grow your show!Recommended: Talk Triggers: The Complete Guide to Creating Customers with Word-of-Mouthhttps://www.talktriggers.com/____Helping Podcasters Everyday! https://howtopodcast.ca/We would love to hear from you - here is our listener survey!https://forms.gle/GbrFv9DGszV8N4PW6
Summary
E683 - I Googled Myself and Not One Mention of My Social Media Accounts - Podcasting Tips and Search Engine Optimization SEO
4d ago00:14:27Summary readyEPISODE 683 - I Googled Myself and Not One Mention of My Social Media Accounts - Podcasting Tips and Search Engine Optimization SEO Ok, so I did a Google Search on my Living The Next Chapter Podcast - it is a podcast that features authors, publishers and it is literally a joy to create! Starting in 2022, we now have over 760 episodes! Wow!I had a conversation with a pro-Facebook Podcaster that believes wholeheartedly that Facebook is the best tool to grow his show - it is working for him and I am so pleased to see that he has found his engaged audience and support him fully.I did ask though, is there SEO (Search Engine Optimization) for Facebook? If you Googled your Podcast would Google return any of your content from Facebook in the search results. He seemed stunned at that question as Facebook is the be all and end all for his podcast.I went to Google and did this very thing for my show, Living The Next Chapter and my assumptions were confirmed. I challenge you to test this for your podcast and share your results with me at HowToPodcast.caMy top 6 results on page one of Google (the Holy Grail of Search Results is obviously page 1!!) were, - My Podcast on Apple- My Website (which I own)- My Podcast Channel on YouTube for my show- My Hosting Site for my podcast - Buzzsprout- My Podcast on Spotify- My Podcast on PodchaserNot a single mention of any of my social media accounts - none of my Facebook or Instagram ads resulted in being found on the biggest search engine in the world! None! I keep saying it, I am a podcaster that has social media assets, not a social media person with a podcast!Get a domain for your website! Be on both Apple and Android! Set up your YouTube Podcast today! These are all ways to be found.Facebook might be your audience today, Instagram might be your focus at the moment - BUT - Google is not bringing back those social platforms in search results, try it yourself and make the best decision for your podcast today!If you need help with any of this, let me know - I can help. Oh, and by the way, I did not PAY to be found on page one of Google. Just do the work, in the RIGHT PLACES! You will be found!Catch you on the next episode!Check ou tmy author podcast - Living The Next Chapterhttps://livingthenextchapter.com/____Helping Podcasters Everyday! https://howtopodcast.ca/We would love to hear from you - here is our listener survey!https://forms.gle/GbrFv9DGszV8N4PW6
SummaryE682 - Podcasters, Silence is Golden - Don't Kill The Space, What Mozart Can Teach You About Podcasting
5d ago00:17:43Summary readyEPISODE 682 - Podcasters, Silence is Golden - Don't Kill The Space, What Mozart Can Teach You About Podcasting Episode SummaryIn this episode, Dave explores why silence is just as important in podcasting as it is in music. Drawing from over 45 years as a musician and his experience as a podcast host, Dave explains how intentional pauses add depth, clarity, and a pleasant cadence to your episodes—making your show more enjoyable and digestible for listeners.Why Silence MattersSilence between spoken words is as essential as the notes between music.Famous composers like Mozart emphasized that music lies in the space between the notes.Podcast Editing: Don’t Remove All the Pauses!Over-editing can make a podcast sound robotic and rushed.Tools that delete all silence may lead to content that’s harder to follow and less soothing for the audience.Natural pauses help listeners absorb information, feel at ease, and fully engage with your showListener Experience and PacingFeedback shows that listeners value a non-rushed, calm podcast pace.The right amount of space in dialogue creates clarity and connection.Your editing choices should prioritize listener comfort and comprehension.Demonstration: Silence vs. Over-EditingDave shares two versions of a passage:One with natural pauses, as he would read on the show.A second, heavily edited version with all silence removed.The result: too much editing can create anxiety and make content harder to process.Practical Tips for PodcastersDon’t feel pressured to eliminate all silence—those gaps are part of natural speech.Communicate your preferences to any editors you work with: ask for space to be left in your audio.Remember, it’s your podcast: you get to decide the style and pacing.When presenting live or recording, slow down, breathe, and give yourself (and your audience) time to think.Final EncouragementSilence isn’t an editing mistake—it’s your best friend for clarity and listener retention.If you need podcast editing help or advice, Dave is available for support and collaboration.Remember: Add some purposeful silence to your next episode. It could make your podcast more memorable and enjoyable for everyone tuning in!"The music is not in the notes, but in the silence between." Mozart____Helping Podcasters Everyday! https://howtopodcast.ca/We would love to hear from you - here is our listener survey!https://forms.gle/GbrFv9DGszV8N4PW6
Summary
E681 - Podcasters, Try Being Quiet When Your Guest Speaks - Podcasting and Interview Tips
6d ago00:20:42Summary readyEpisode 681 - Podcasters, Try Being Quiet When Your Guest Speaks - Podcasting and Interview TipsMain Topic: Interview Etiquette – Giving Space to Your GuestAvoid frequent interjections like “yes,” “right,” or “okay.” These can clutter your episode and create more editing work. Train yourself to limit affirmations and let your guest share their thoughts fully.Advice for Podcasters:Remaining quiet as the host isn’t about being disengaged—it helps with smoother editing and gives your guest room to shine.Don’t feel pressured to add constant “uh-huhs” or personal insertions. Instead, listen actively, and add flavor only when necessary.This skill not only makes your podcast sound better—it helps you be a better listener in your personal and work life.After your guest finishes answering, move to your next question—no need to repeat what was just said.Review past interviews with a critical ear. Spot areas where more silence could have improved the flow. You can always revisit and re-edit those episodes for future listeners.Support for PodcastersStruggling with editing or overwhelmed by behind-the-scenes work?Dave is here to help—reach out via howtopodcast.ca for support or a one-on-one conversation.Community CornerListener messages and tips are welcome! Use the SpeakPipe recorder on the website to share your advice—90-second messages may be featured on future episodes.Remember: only you can create your unique podcast. There’s no one better to tell your story than you!Thank you for being part of the podcast! Keep growing, keep sharing—and if you have tips, questions, or challenges, join the conversation ____Helping Podcasters Everyday! https://howtopodcast.ca/We would love to hear from you - here is our listener survey!https://forms.gle/GbrFv9DGszV8N4PW6
SummaryE680 - Want a Free Clickable Link To Your Podcast use Pod.Link to Share Your Show - Podcast Tips and Tool
1w ago00:10:35Summary readyEPISODE 680 - Want a Free Clickable Link To Your Podcast use Pod.Link to Share Your Show - Podcast Tips - The Daily Dave - Podcasting Tips and ToolEpisode SummaryIn this short episode, Dave shares an easy, free tool that every podcaster can use to help listeners access and share their show: pod.link. Learn how to add a direct link in your email signature or on social media, making it effortless for people to find and share your podcast across all platforms.What Is Pod.link?Pod.link creates a universal page for your podcast, listing all the major listening platforms (Apple, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Audible, and more).Simply search for your show on pod.link, copy the unique URL, and use it wherever you promote your podcast.How to Use for Maximum ImpactEmail Signature: Paste your pod.link URL at the bottom of your emails, so every recipient has instant access to your show.Social Media: Share your pod.link in stories, posts, or bio links. Provide an easy way for followers to listen and share.No Website Required: Even if you don't have a podcast website, pod.link ensures your audience can listen on their preferred platform.Tips for Sharing Your ShowTreat your social media followers as your show’s evangelists—equip them with a universal link and encourage them to spread the word.If you have multiple podcasts, repeat the process for each show to gather their unique links.Ask your followers to share your pod.link with friends and communities—you never know who might tune in next!Listener and Community EngagementDave invites listeners to send in their own tips for promoting shows—share your ideas and you could be featured in an upcoming episode.Stay connected through howtopodcast.ca for more tips, Zoom rooms, and ongoing community support.Quick RecapFree tool: pod.linkBoost your reach: Email signatures, social media, or anywhere else you connect with audiencesEngage your community: Provide easy sharing tools and always welcome new ideasThanks for listening! Need help promoting your podcast or want to share your own tip? Visit howtopodcast.ca, leave a message, and join the growing podcasting family!https://pod.link/____Helping Podcasters Everyday! https://howtopodcast.ca/We would love to hear from you - here is our listener survey!https://forms.gle/GbrFv9DGszV8N4PW6
SummaryE679 - Thoughts on Niching Down, Narrowing Your Focus and How to do this - Podcasting Tips
1w ago00:21:26Summary readyEpisode 679 - Thoughts on Niching Down, Narrowing Your Focus and How to do this - Podcasting Tips Dave answers a question from listener Jen Mack about niching your podcast audience: Should you focus on the kind of person they are, or on the problem they have? Dave explores practical strategies for tailoring your show to a specific group—and why a “niche” is essential for deeper impact and connection.1. The Value of Niching Your AudienceFocusing your podcast on a specific audience or their problems makes your content more meaningful and better targeted.Broad topics with little depth rarely connect as powerfully as shows that go deep within a defined niche.2. How to Discover and Hone Your NicheGo back to basics: Revisit why you started your show and who you want to serve.Use surveys and join online groups to discover what your potential audience talks about and cares about.Attend community events, engage in relevant meetups, and connect with people face-to-face to understand your audience better.3. The Person vs. The ProblemAn effective niche is often a blend of both targeting a specific type of listener and the challenges they want to solve.Consider not just who your audience is, but why they’re seeking out your show and what questions they’re asking.4. Tools & Tactics for Refining Your FocusUse Google’s autofill feature to see what potential listeners are searching for online. Build episodes and episode titles around these queries.Listen for feedback from your audience—like Jen’s question—to further tailor your topics as your show grows.5. Building Community Through EngagementInteract with your listeners by inviting questions and feedback through your website.Responding directly to audience inquiries helps you continually refine your niche and deepen your podcast’s relevance.Call to ActionHave a question or tip about podcasting niches? Visit howtopodcast.ca, hit the microphone icon, and leave a 90-second voice message to be featured on a future episode.Share your one must-have call-to-action for the end of an episode—what would it be? Thanks for listening and being part of this growing podcasting community!____Helping Podcasters Everyday! https://howtopodcast.ca/We would love to hear from you - here is our listener survey!https://forms.gle/GbrFv9DGszV8N4PW6
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E678 - Blinded By Fear - When You Get Hit So Hard You Might Just Give Up on Your Podcast
1w ago00:19:40Summary readyEPISODE 678 - Blinded By Fear - When You Get Hit So Hard You Might Just Give Up on Your Podcast In this episode, we tackle one of the biggest roadblocks for podcasters: fear. Whether it’s the fear of the unknown, worrying about what others might think, or getting stuck over “what ifs,” these anxieties can keep us from hitting record, launching new ideas, or growing our shows. We’ll explore why these fears are so common in podcasting, how they can sabotage our progress, and—most importantly—practical strategies to overcome them. Tune in for real talk about building confidence, reframing self-doubt, and taking bold steps forward, even when you don’t have all the answers. If fear has ever held you back, this episode is for you!____Helping Podcasters Everyday! https://howtopodcast.ca/We would love to hear from you - here is our listener survey!https://forms.gle/GbrFv9DGszV8N4PW6
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