Episodes

  • 2024 Podcast Recap
    Dec 28 2024

    As 2024 draws to a close, the podcasting industry has experienced significant growth and transformation. This year has seen podcasts solidify their role as trusted news sources, platforms for celebrity storytelling, and integral components of the entertainment landscape. Let's delve into the key highlights that have defined podcasting over the past year.

    Podcasting as News:

    Podcasts became a trusted source for political and election news. Shows like The Daily and Pod Save America reached record listenership, with nearly 40% of Americans relying on podcasts for clarity in a crowded media space.

    Celebrity Spotlights: This year, numerous celebrities turned to podcasts to share their stories authentically. Kristin Cavallari and Paige DeSorbo discussed personal milestones, while Selena Gomez opened up about mental health on On Purpose with Jay Shetty. Podcasts have become the go-to medium for raw, unfiltered storytelling. Podcasting Meets Hollywood: The entertainment industry embraced podcasting themes, with TV shows like Hulu’s Only Murders in the Building and the Sex and the City spinoff and just like that.., Nobody Wants You Here captivating audiences. Comedic series such as Welcome to the Neighborhood further highlighted podcasting's cultural relevance beyond audio.

    Major Deals in 2024:

    • New Heights: The Kelce brothers signed a deal with Amazon's Wondery worth over $100 million for their podcast. The Wall Street Journal
    • Call Her Daddy: Alex Cooper secured a significant deal with SiriusXM for her podcast. The Wall Street Journal


    By the Numbers:

    • Over 300,000 new podcasts launched this year, though only 1% reached the milestone of 1 million downloads.
    • Achieving 29 downloads in seven days places a show in the top 50% globally, highlighting the competitive landscape.
    • More than half of listeners purchased products advertised on podcasts, underscoring the medium's influence.


    Merch & Live Experiences:

    • Podcast-related merchandise sales exceeded $250 million, with fans eagerly embracing branded items.
    • Over 4,000 live podcast shows were hosted worldwide, with popular shows like SmartLess and My Favorite Murder leading the way.


    Five-Minute Challenge: As we conclude the year, take five minutes to envision your podcast with unlimited time, resources, and money. Whether it's launching a merch line, hosting live events, or securing ad partnerships, identify one idea and adapt it to your current resources. Taking that first step can turn your vision into reality.

    2024 has been a transformative year for podcasting, demonstrating that the medium is not just surviving but thriving. The possibilities are endless for creators ready to innovate and connect.


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    16 mins
  • How to Create a Successful (B2B) Business-to-Business Podcast
    Dec 22 2024

    We’re diving into Business-to-Business (B2B) podcasting. Unlike traditional podcasts aimed at consumers, a B2B podcast focuses on building relationships with potential clients, collaborators, and industry leaders. Whether you’re a solopreneur or part of a larger team, this episode will show you how to create a podcast that works for your business.

    Steps to Launch Your B2B Podcast

    1. Identify Your Ideal Guests

      • Make a list of people you’d love to do business with. Think potential clients, collaborators, or decision-makers in your industry.
      • The goal is to highlight their expertise and stories, not promote your business directly.
    2. Pick a Relevant Theme

      • Choose a topic that aligns with your guests’ interests and positions them as experts. Examples:
    3. Set Up Your Studio

      Virtual Setup:

      • Riverside.fm: High-quality remote recording platform for audio and video. Learn more at http://riverside.fm.
      • Blue Yeti Microphone: Professional sound quality without breaking the bank. Details at http://bluemic.com/yeti.
      • Logitech C920 Webcam: Crisp and clear video for your remote interviews. Check it out at http://logitech.com/en-us/products/webcams/c920.
      • Descript: An easy-to-use tool for transcribing, editing, and polishing your podcast audio. Visit http://descript.com

      In-Person Setup:

      • iPad (Latest Model): Ensure compatibility with new iPhone cords for seamless integration. Available at your local retailer or http://apple.com/ipad.
      • iPhones: Required for Switcher Studio, a great way to record video podcasts. Learn more at http://switcherstudio.com.
      • Switcher Studio: A powerful tool for multi-camera video podcasting. Get started at http://switcherstudio.com.
      • BOYA Omnidirectional Lapel Microphones: High-quality clip-on mics for professional audio. Purchase at https://www.amazon.com/BOYA-Microphone-Smartphone-4-Channel-Omnidirectional/dp/B0CZ36XNWF.
    4. Create a Follow-Up Process

      • Plan how you’ll stay in touch with guests after the recording:
    5. Provide a Media Kit

      • Help your guests promote the episode with a media kit, including graphics, quotes, and links they can easily share with their network.

    📝 This week’s challenge:

    1. List 10 people you’d love to interview on your B2B podcast.
    2. Brainstorm a podcast name and theme that highlights your potential clients’ expertise.
    3. Choose whether to go virtual or in-person, and start assembling your studio.


    B2B podcasting is more than just a marketing tool—it’s a relationship builder and lead generator. By creating a space for your guests to shine, you’re positioning yourself as a trusted partner and opening doors for collaboration.

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    18 mins
  • What I’d Do Differently If I Were Starting Podcasting Today
    Dec 15 2024

    Thinking About Starting a Podcast?
    If you’ve been dreaming about starting a podcast—whether it’s a fresh idea or one that’s been marinating for months or years—this episode is for you. Steph, your Pod Savvy Guide, breaks down everything she’d do differently if she were starting her first podcast today. From overcoming fears to setting up an efficient workflow, she’s here to help you take that leap and hit publish!

    Why Podcasting Can Change Your Life
    Podcasting isn’t just about creating content—it’s a transformational journey. Steph reflects on her own experiences, from tackling fears about being judged to building a career as a podcast producer. She shares how interviewing inspiring guests has reshaped her perspective, helping her dream bigger and connect with people on a profound level.

    Steps to Start Your Podcast (With Links!)

    1. Start Simple with Riverside.fm

      • Forget about fancy gear. Use what you have—a phone, laptop, or basic webcam.
      • Download Riverside.fm at http://riverside.fm for an all-in-one recording, editing, and social media tool.
      • Pro Tip: With Riverside, you can create show notes, social clips, and export in 4K—everything you need to save time and produce professional-quality content.
    2. Create a Home Studio

      • Find a quiet corner in your home or office. You don’t need a professional studio—Steph’s setup includes a folding card table and blackout curtains.
      • Recommended Gear: Desetech 4K Webcam at http://desetech.com for crisp video recording.
    3. Automate Guest Booking with Calendly

      • Upgrade to the Standard Plan of Calendly at http://calendly.com to streamline scheduling and automate reminders for your guests.
      • Guests can reschedule easily, reducing no-shows and headaches.
    4. Record Your First Solo Episode

      • Share your story, why you’re starting the podcast, and what listeners can expect. Keep it authentic and don’t overthink it.
      • Use this episode as a reference when reaching out to potential guests.
    5. Send It to Friends and Family

      • Ask for support! Share your episode link and encourage reviews. Example text:
        “Hey, I just launched my podcast! I’d love for you to check it out and leave a 5-star review if you enjoyed it.”
    6. Start Booking Guests

      • Reach out to people you admire—bloggers, professionals, even public figures. Use your Calendly link to make it seamless.
    7. Publish and Promote

      • Use Spotify for Podcasters at http://podcasters.spotify.com to publish your show and leverage Riverside.fm for creating shareable social media clips.


    Challenge of the Week: This week, your challenge is to record and publish your first solo episode. Follow these steps:

    • Write down a few key points about why you’re starting your podcast and what listeners can expect.
    • Use Riverside.fm (http://riverside.fm) to record and edit your episode.
    • Share your episode link with friends and family, and ask for reviews.

    By the end of the week, you’ll have taken your first big step into the podcasting world!


    Your audience is waiting, and your voice is powerful. Don’t let fear or excuses hold you back. Start small, stay consistent, and remember—every podcaster begins somewhere. Take that first step today, and you’ll be amazed at the journey ahead.

    Catch you next Saturday for another inspiring episode of Pod Savvy Guide!

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    14 mins
  • Edit Your Podcasts 75% Faster with This Tip
    Dec 8 2024

    For most podcasters, the hardest part of podcasting isn’t hitting record—it’s everything that comes after. Editing and publishing an episode can feel like a time-consuming chore that takes away from the joy of being behind the mic. But what if I told you there’s one simple technique that could make your editing process 75% faster?

    In this episode, I’m sharing the biggest game-changer I’ve discovered in my podcasting journey—a trick that has transformed the way I approach editing and publishing. Whether you’re a seasoned podcaster or just starting out, this one tip will save you hours and make podcasting more enjoyable.


    The Game-Changing Technique

    Say “Edit” During the Recording

    Before I hit record, I always let my guests know about this simple but effective trick:

    If they make a mistake or want something removed, they just need to pause, say “edit,” and then continue.

    How It Works:

    Before the Episode:

    Let your guest know upfront about the “edit” cue.

    Reassure them it’s okay to mess up because it can be fixed easily.

    During the Recording:

    Both you and your guest can use “edit” to mark places that need attention during editing.

    Example: If you forget your question, just pause, say “edit,” and then pick up where you left off.

    After Recording:

    If you’re using a platform like Riverside.fm, review the transcript and search for the word “edit” to quickly locate all the spots that need adjustments.

    No need to listen through the entire episode—just jump to the edits and clean them up.

    Bonus Tip:

    You don’t have to use the word “edit.” Pick a unique or fun word that feels natural to you and your guest.


    Why This Technique Works

    Saves Time: Pinpointing mistakes means you don’t have to comb through the entire episode.

    Reduces Stress: Guests feel more at ease knowing they can fix mistakes easily.

    Streamlines Workflow: Makes the post-production process smoother and more efficient.


    Real-Life Example

    In a recent episode, I was interviewing a polished public speaker. Even though she was a pro, I still introduced the “edit” technique at the beginning of the recording. She only used it once, but I used it 17 times! It was a lifesaver for both of us and made the editing process quick and painless.


    Challenge of the Week

    📝 Try this technique in your next recording:

    Before you start, explain the “edit” cue to your guest and encourage them to use it whenever needed.

    Use it yourself to mark moments where you need to regroup or make corrections.

    After the episode, review how much time it saves you during editing.


    Editing doesn’t have to be the hardest part of podcasting. This simple technique has transformed my process, giving me more time to focus on what I love most—connecting with amazing guests and creating meaningful content.

    Remember, your audience is waiting, your show is needed, and your voice is powerful. Keep creating and sharing your unique impact.



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    5 mins
  • 5 Tips for Creating Engaging Solo Episodes
    Dec 1 2024

    We’re diving into a topic that many podcasters find challenging but incredibly rewarding—solo podcast episodes. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to spice up your show, solo episodes are a fantastic way to connect directly with your audience and let your personality shine.

    Why Solo Episodes?

    • They allow you to share personal insights, stories, or expertise.

    • You’re the star, making it easier to connect with your listeners.

    • They’re great for building your authority and deepening audience engagement.


    Steps to Create a Great Solo Episode

    1. Plan Your Episode

      • Write out your topic and key points.

      • Use ChatGPT to help organize your ideas with a prompt like this:"Hi ChatGPT, I’m planning a solo podcast episode.

        • Podcast Name: [Insert Podcast Name]

        • Host Name: [Insert Your Name]

        • Topic: [Insert Topic]

        • Steps:

          1. [Insert Step 1]

          2. [Insert Step 2]

          3. [Insert Step 3]Please create a script with an engaging opener, introduction, detailed steps, a recap, and a motivational closing with a call to action."

    2. Use a Teleprompter

      • Tools like Riverside.fm have a built-in teleprompter feature (Pro Subscription required).

      • Adjust the speed and size to make it easy to follow while keeping your delivery natural.

    3. Keep It Conversational

      • Picture talking to a friend or someone you know well.

      • Use personal stories or anecdotes to make it relatable.

    4. Engage Your Audience

      • Ask questions or share scenarios that resonate with your listeners.

      • Example: “Have you ever felt nervous about going solo? I did too, but here’s what helped!”

    5. Experiment and Learn

      • Don’t worry if it’s not perfect—practice makes progress.

      • Listen back to refine your delivery and flow.


    Challenge of the Week

    📝 Here’s your challenge:

    1. Brainstorm a topic for a solo episode.

    2. Write out your key points or steps and refine them with ChatGPT.

    3. Record your solo episode in the next 7 days using the tips above.

    4. Share your experience—what worked, what didn’t, and how it felt!


    Solo episodes might feel daunting at first, but they’re an incredible way to connect with your audience and share your unique perspective. Whether you use a script, teleprompter, or just go off the cuff, the key is to stay authentic and confident.


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    15 mins
  • 100 Pods in 100 Days: Halfway There! (Day 50)
    Nov 23 2024

    Are You Struggling with Video Podcasts? Well, so was I. That’s why, on October 1st, I started my 100 Days of Podcasting Challenge. Now, 50 episodes in, I’m sharing everything I’ve learned—the good, the bad, and the unexpectedly amazing.

    In this episode of Pod Savvy Guide, I dive into the lessons I’ve picked up along the way, from overcoming the challenges of transitioning to video podcasting to mastering the art of guest booking. Whether you’re feeling stuck or just looking for ways to streamline your process, this episode is packed with tips and inspiration to help you hit your podcasting goals.


    Episode Highlights:

    • 🚀 How Big Goals Drive Big Change: My journey to 100 episodes.
    • 🌟 Why Mistakes Are Your Best Teachers: Embracing imperfections.
    • 🎥 Making the Leap to Video Podcasting: What worked, what didn’t, and what’s next.
    • 🗓️ Streamlining Guest Booking: Systems that save time and headaches.
    • 💪 Overcoming Self-Doubt: Building confidence through consistency.
    • 🤖 Automation Tools That Work: Save time without sacrificing quality.
    • "Are you struggling with video podcasts? Well, so was I."
    • "I'm halfway there—50 episodes down, 50 more to go!"
    • "Booking guests used to be overwhelming, but now it’s my favorite part."
    • "Riverside FM completely changed my workflow—here’s how."
    • "Don’t let fear stop you. Start messy, and keep going!"


    🎯 Weekly Challenge: Just Do It

    Alright, listeners, here’s the challenge for this week: If something sparked in your mind while you were listening to this episode—an idea, a project, a goal—don’t overthink it. Just do it Whether it’s booking your first podcast guest, trying out video for the first time, or even setting up that automation tool you’ve been putting off, take the leap. The best way to make progress is to start, even if it’s messy or imperfect.

    Remember, action creates momentum, and momentum leads to growth. I believe in you, and I can’t wait to hear about the amazing things you accomplish this week!

    Now go out there and make it happen. Remember, your audience is waiting, your show is needed, and your voice is powerful. Keep making the impact only your show can bring.



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    35 mins
  • Does Your Podcast Even Matter? Spoiler: Yes, It Does
    Nov 17 2024

    I’ve got a question for you: Have you ever found yourself wondering, “Does my podcast even matter?” Maybe you’ve felt overwhelmed by the sheer number of shows out there or discouraged because you’re not hitting the big download numbers. Let me tell you something—your podcast absolutely matters, and today, we’re diving into why.

    Podcasting has exploded in popularity. In 2023 alone, over 200,000 new podcasts were created, bringing the total to a staggering 3.2 million. With so many voices in the space, it’s easy to think, “What could I possibly add?” But here’s the truth: no one else can bring your unique perspective, experiences, and personality to the table. That’s why your podcast has value, no matter the stats or competition.

    So, if you’ve ever doubted whether your show is worth it, this episode is for you. Let’s talk about why your podcast matters and how to refocus on what really counts.


    What We Covered in This Episode

    1. Why Your Podcast Matters

    • Podcasting isn’t about reinventing the wheel; it’s about bringing your authentic self.
    • Over 3.2 million podcasts exist, but none of them have your voice, perspective, or experiences.
    • Whether you’re podcasting for fun, sharing a message, or growing a business, your voice is unique, and that alone makes your show worth creating.

    2. Breaking the Comparison Trap

    • It’s natural to compare your show to big podcasts with millions of downloads, but remember:
    • Those podcasts often have full production teams and budgets.
    • They started where you are—every big podcast was once a new podcast.
    • Focus on your journey, and if needed, take a break from listening to similar shows to avoid self-doubt.

    3. The Power of Purpose

    • Define the “why” behind your podcast:
    • Are you podcasting for fun?
    • Do you want to connect with others or share a message?
    • Are you using podcasting to grow your business or generate leads?
    • Your purpose determines your goals. For example:
    • If your goal is 30 new clients, you don’t need millions of listeners.

    4. Your Unique Perspective

    • No one else has your background, experiences, or personality. Even in crowded niches, your voice is irreplaceable.
    • Think of podcasting as a way to share your lens on the world.

    5. The Joy of Podcasting

    • Podcasting isn’t just about results—it’s about the experience.
    • From learning new skills to connecting with dream guests, every step is an opportunity for growth and fun.

    Inspiration for DIY Podcasters

    • Podcasting is a journey, not a race. Focus on enjoying the process, not just the outcome.
    • Whether you have two listeners or 2,000, your show can make an impact.
    • Even small audiences matter. One engaged listener could be the spark for something incredible.

    Key Takeaways

    • Your podcast matters. No one else can replicate your voice or perspective.
    • Focus on your purpose. Whether it’s fun, business, or sharing a message, define what success looks like for you.
    • Stop comparing. Tune out the noise and focus on what makes you happy.

    As Dr. Seuss said:
    "Today you are you, that is truer than true, there is no one alive that's youer than you."

    Your audience is waiting, your show is needed, and your voice is powerful. Podcasting isn’t about competing with others; it’s about sharing what makes you unique. So keep creating, keep connecting, and remember that your podcast is an opportunity to make an impact—whether it’s for millions or just a few.

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    12 mins
  • Battling Imposter Syndrome in Podcasting
    Nov 10 2024

    Welcome, fellow pod nerds, to another episode of Pod Savvy Guide. Today, Steph, your pod-savvy guide, dives into a familiar feeling for many creators: imposter syndrome in podcasting. Steph shares her journey through early challenges, from technical mishaps to navigating intimidating interviews, and explores how overcoming these experiences shaped her confidence in podcasting.

    Key Moments and Lessons:

    • First Interview Nerves: Steph recalls her first interview with someone she admired, feeling overwhelmed by the setup and the stakes. Yet, through pushing past the anxiety, she realized that growth happens on the other side of discomfort.

    • Learning Through Mistakes: From early audio issues to repetitive questions, Steph reflects on these moments as learning experiences that ultimately improved her skills. Every misstep became a lesson, reinforcing that mistakes are part of the journey.

    • From Hobby to Career: When she started a real estate podcast for her dad’s business, Steph felt the pressure of working on something with professional stakes. Yet, this challenge helped solidify podcasting as an essential part of her life and career.

    • Building Community: Starting the Utah Podcast Coalition was a huge leap. Despite feeling out of her depth, Steph found support in a community of podcasters who inspired her to see her strengths and keep pushing forward.

    Encouragement for Fellow Podcasters:

    Steph’s message is simple: imposter syndrome shows up when you’re growing. Each moment of self-doubt is a sign of progress and learning. Whether you’re just starting out or diving into a new aspect of podcasting, keep going. You have something unique to offer, and only you can share your voice in your own way.

    Takeaways:

    • Every podcaster faces imposter syndrome: You’re not alone.
    • Mistakes are valuable lessons: Each mishap teaches something essential.
    • Push through the discomfort: Growth happens beyond your comfort zone.
    • Build connections: A supportive community can be a powerful motivator.

    Stay Connected:

    Follow Pod Savvy Guide for more insights, podcasting tips, and encouragement on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pod_savvy_guide/

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    25 mins