Hey, it's Dave! In this episode (which uses chapters FYI), I take you through a year-end wrap-up, sharing stories, rants, insights, and predictions about the world of podcasting. Here are the main points I covered:

1. A Christmas Story with a Lesson for Podcasters

I kicked things off with a humorous Christmas tale about the Cridland Boys Choir, and what happens when you keep loosening your standards just to hit a target—a not-so-subtle lesson for the podcasting world.

2. Pushing Back on Changing Definitions in Podcasting

I strongly disagreed with Steve Goldstein and Jay Nachlis' take that YouTube should be considered podcasts. (also TikTok, and Newsletters).

I emphasized that a podcast, by definition, is audio, video, or PDF delivered via RSS—without that, it's not a podcast.

3. Why "Everything Is a Podcast" is Dangerous

I called out the industry for letting YouTube (and now TikTok) hijack the term "podcast," muddling data and damaging clarity around the medium.

4. The Hazards of Exclusive Distribution Deals

I discussed how exclusive distribution (like those seen with Netflix and Spotify) leads to loss of control and audiences for podcasters.

5. Warning Signs of Big Companies Manipulating Podcasting

Shared concerns about major corporations and what happens when their decisions are driven mainly by shareholder profits and not creators or audiences.

6. AI Content Flooding the Podcast Space

I highlighted the dangers of companies like Inception Point AI mass-producing low-value podcasts, cluttering directories, harming discoverability, and devaluing advertising rates.

7.Common Missteps Hurting Podcast Discovery

I warned about creating duplicate listings in Apple Podcasts and elsewhere, usually when moving hosts, and the importance of understanding how to migrate your show correctly.

8. Show Name Collisions

I noted the confusion caused by multiple shows using the same title (like "Thinking Outside the Box") and urged creators to do their research before naming their show.

9. Monetization Predictions for the Coming Year

I predicted a shift toward premium/patron-supported models as podcasters get frustrated with low ad rates.

10. The Fight Against "AI Slop"

I advocated for collectively pushing back against low-quality, AI-generated spam content in our medium.

11. Upcoming Industry Mergers

I think we'll see podcast-related companies merging or being acquired in the near future.

12. The Reality of YouTube for Podcasters

I expect many podcasters to try YouTube, realize it's not for them, and return to audio-first approaches—while some will succeed by mastering the video platform.

13. A Desire for More Creativity in Podcasting

I called for a resurgence of risk-taking and creative experimentation, rather than everyone following the same tired formats.

Podcasts/Shows Noted:

Pod News Weekly Review

No Agenda Show

Good Hang with Amy Poehler

Things We Learn in a Bar

Work for the Wind by Aliyah Langley

Hey, it's Dave Jackson, and I'm thrilled to bring you episode 1014 of the School of Podcasting. You’ve heard me say it before: "Podcasts lead to relationships, and those relationships lead to opportunities." Today, I brought proof! I sat down with Kim Newlove and Jan Almasey, who shared amazing stories about how starting a podcast opened doors they never anticipated.

Kim Newlove’s Story:

Kim hosts The Pharmacist Voice, where she shares insights on using your voice in the medical field, as well as the Perrysburg Podcast in Ohio. It’s been incredible watching Kim become a mini local celebrity—people in her town now recognize her as "the podcast woman." Whether it’s meeting city council members or audience listeners who discovered the area through her podcast, Kim sees firsthand how her show for Perrysburg builds authentic relationships. She even reached out to her local library to run seminars on "how to listen to podcasts," growing her audience one person at a time. You can check out Kim’s work at the Pharmacist Voice.

Jan Almasey’s Journey:

Jan started the Apex Podcast after seeing how storytelling could bring hope to his local community in Stark County, Ohio. Over three years, the show picked up momentum, leading to speaking engagements at high schools, partnerships with the local chamber of commerce, and even a sponsorship from the city that helped him set up a podcast studio in downtown Canton. Jan’s strategy? Build real relationships—sending thank-you cards or making personal follow-up calls to guests fueled organic growth. Later, those relationships directly translated to business opportunities like agency work, consulting gigs, and even a grant through Jumpstart Inc. to support the local economy. Jan’s story proves that podcasting is about more than downloads—it’s about building a network that keeps on growing. Learn more at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jan-almasy/

My Takeaway:

Reflecting on their experiences—and my own—I can't stress enough how starting a podcast can transform your network. Whether you’re meeting listeners at local events, helping someone discover how to use a podcast app, or forming business partnerships outside your traditional circles, these relationships turn into possibilities you never would’ve imagined. Your podcast can be the starting point for new jobs, collaborations, consulting work, or simply making a bigger impact in your community.

If you’re thinking about starting a podcast or you’re on the verge of giving up—let these stories convince you to stick with it. The relationships you build now might lead to the next big opportunity.

Ready to plan, launch, or grow your show? Visit schoolofpodcasting.com and use coupon code LISTENER to save on your membership (with a 30-day money-back guarantee)!

As always, thanks for listening—and if you’ve got a "Because of My Podcast" story, I’d love to hear it!

Mentioned in this episode:

Live Appearances

I would love to see you! You can see where I'm going to be using the link below. If you would like me to speak at your offline or online event, contact me at www.schoolofpodcasting.com/contact

Where Will I Be?

Happy...

Welcome to the show! In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain and sharing the feedback you’ve given me over the past year. From the things you love—like honest opinions and those behind-the-scenes bloopers—to areas where you think I could improve, I’m breaking it all down.

I’ll share how I process both praise and criticism, respond to some thought-provoking and even challenging listener comments, and talk openly about staying authentic on the microphone, no matter what.

If you’ve ever wondered how to handle feedback for your own podcast—or you’re just curious about what really goes on behind the scenes—this episode is for you. Let’s jump in and talk about what it really means to grow through feedback!

• Shared survey results about my audience (how you found the show, preferences on episode length, etc.)
• The value of opinions and why I’m not afraid to voice mine—people appreciate authenticity!
• Blooper reel gets love for keeping the show relatable and real.
• Several listeners said the show’s focus has improved—thanks for noticing!
• Some prefer solo episodes to interviews, and I talk about why I sometimes do interviews anyway.
• The “same old” show approach: people tune in for consistency, just like reruns of Hallmark movies.
• Trust is crucial; I work hard to give value and answers you can’t find elsewhere.
• You can tell when I’m tired or distracted! I agree—your energy transfers to listeners.
• Being award-winning isn’t about ego—my goal is always helping people.
• Repetition helps beginners, but seasoned podcasters would like more advanced content.
• Technical details: I use a Rode Podmic USB microphone into a Rodecaster Duo, recording in Hindenburg.
• Notes on ideas and feedback: people want more “behind-the-scenes” and technical information.
• Reading vs. riffing: I admit sometimes I slip into “reading mode” and work to stay spontaneous.
• Length controversy: some want shorter shows, some longer, but the majority like the current format.
• Hobbyists vs. business podcasters: I explain why my content has sometimes shifted toward podcasters wanting to grow.
• Ads feedback: some want fewer ads, especially repeating the School of Podcasting ad too often.
• Religion and “blue” humor: I discuss my Christian identity, my sense of humor, and respect differing tastes—even when jokes cross lines.
• You can’t please everyone—sometimes what “crosses the line” for one person is just casual for another.
• Suggestions for more advanced content and deeper listener Q&A segments.
• Advanced podcasting wisdom: find out what your audience wants, deliver with value, and keep improving.
• On making money: it’s possible, but requires loving the journey and standing out from the crowd.
• I’m always open to detailed questions—consider sending in your own for future deep dives!

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