In this episode, I’m giving you a behind-the-scenes look at what it was like to be a judge on the New Zealand Podcast Awards panel.

With submissions now closed and winners about to be announced, this is the perfect time to start thinking ahead to next year’s awards, and what you can be doing right now to give yourself the best possible shot.

While the official judging criteria is confidential, I’m sharing the general trends I noticed: what made certain entries stand out, where others slipped up, and the small details that make a surprisingly big difference. From editing and flow, to audience clarity, to crafting a strong showreel, this episode is packed with practical advice you can start applying today.

Whether you want to win a podcast award next year, or you simply want to improve the quality and impact of your show, you’ll take away clear, implementable tips to elevate your storytelling, production, and overall listener experience.

In this episode:

• The most common mistakes podcasters make when submitting to awards
• Simple things judges look for that instantly improve your score
• Why editing matters just as much as the content itself
• How to choose and present clips in your showreel
• Why clarity of audience and purpose is one of the strongest predictors of high scores
• The problem with overusing music in a short submission
• How to track your best episodes throughout the year, so submission time is easier
• What makes a podcast feel polished, intentional, and impactful

More Resources:

• Book a Podcast Power Hour Strategy Session: https://www.maxenelondoncreative.co.nz/book-podcast-power-hour

Wanna go deeper?

🎙️ For resources: https://www.maxenelondoncreative.co.nz/blog

🙋‍♀️ To work with me: https://www.maxenelondoncreative.co.nz/podcasting-services

📱 To get connected: @wannapodcast & @maxenelondoncreative

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ever cringed at the sound of your own voice? You’re not alone. And this episode will help you change that.

In this "best of" episode, I chat with Sally Prosser, voice and public speaking coach, podcaster, and author of Voiceprint, about why so many of us dislike how we sound, and how to start rebuilding a healthy relationship with our voice.

💡 In this episode:

• Why hearing your recorded voice feels so confronting (and how to get used to it)
• The psychology behind “voice confrontation” and tall poppy syndrome
• How childhood experiences and social conditioning shape the way we speak
• The difference between confidence and arrogance, and how to walk that fine line
• Practical exercises to start embracing your voice and speaking with purpose
• Why learning to love your voice is deeply tied to self-acceptance

Whether you’re a podcaster, coach, or simply someone who struggles to speak up, this episode will help you reconnect with your authentic sound and rediscover the confidence that’s already within you.

This clip is from the full episode, Sally Prosser on unlocking your voice potential and overcoming insecurities: https://youtu.be/ICJg9GX8Jfo

Watch it on YT or listen now wherever you get your podcasts.

To purchase Sally's upcoming book, 'Voiceprint', which aims to inspire individuals to embrace their unique vocal identity. Pre-order your copy here: https://www.sallyprosser.com.au/book

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I delve into one of the biggest conversations shaping the podcast industry right now: ethics.

From misinformation and defamation to the role of the Broadcasting Standards Authority (BSA) and Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) in New Zealand, this episode explores what it really means to be a responsible podcaster in 2025.

Using real-world examples like Belle Gibson’s health hoax and recent debates around Winston Peters’ comments about the BSA, I explore how podcasters can balance freedom of speech with public responsibility.

In this episode:

• How the media we consume shapes our beliefs and behaviour
• What defamation is and how to avoid it in your podcast
• What the BSA and ASA are, and how their standards apply to podcasters
• Why regulation doesn’t have to mean restriction, and how ethical podcasting builds trust
• Practical steps for building an ethical show: fact-checking, transparency, and content warnings

More Resources:

• BSA: https://www.bsa.govt.nz/
• ASA: https://asa.co.nz/
• RNZ's article "Winston Peters accuses Broadcasting Standards Authority of 'Soviet era stasi' censorship": https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/576015/winston-peters-accuses-broadcasting-standards-authority-of-soviet-era-stasi-censorship

Wanna go deeper?

🎙️ For resources: https://www.maxenelondoncreative.co.nz/blog

🙋‍♀️ To work with me: https://www.maxenelondoncreative.co.nz/podcasting-services

📱 To get connected: @wannapodcast & @maxenelondoncreative

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this “best of” episode, Making Cents host Frances Cook shares her refreshingly honest approach to podcast monetisation: from building sponsor relationships to knowing your worth (and not being afraid to ask for the moon).

Frances reveals how she’s structured her podcast income through title sponsorships, branded segments, and social media extensions, and why staying true to your audience is the ultimate key to long-term success.

💡 In this episode:

• How Frances Cook built a sustainable income from her podcast
• The power of title and section sponsors (and how to structure them)
• Why brand alignment matters more than quick cash
• How to pitch sponsors and set your rates with confidence
• Why knowing your point of difference is your biggest monetisation advantage

Frances also shares her best advice for independent podcasters: do your research, talk to other creators, and start by asking for what you’re worth. Because no one’s going to negotiate you up.

This clip is from the full episode, Frances Cook on making money, gaining trust and retaining IP: https://youtu.be/_vUL0C0RE7M

Watch it on YT or listen now wherever you get your podcasts.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this “best of” segment, I chat with Hannah Davison, co-host of the multi-award-winning show, Untidy, to explore how they prepare for episodes: from chaotic WhatsApp brainstorms to deeply intuitive interview planning, and how they’ve built a loyal, engaged community along the way.

You’ll hear how they balance structure and spontaneity, the importance of energy and intuition when preparing for guests, and why listener connection is at the heart of everything they do.

✨ In this episode:

• How to prepare for co-hosted and interview episodes
• Why leaving room for chaos and authenticity keeps conversations real
• How to read your guest’s energy and build genuine rapport
• Why community and connection are key to podcast growth
• The powerful mental health impact of feeling “seen” through audio

Whether you’re launching a podcast or refining your process, this conversation is a masterclass in authentic storytelling, audience connection, and the beautiful chaos of creative collaboration.

This clip is from the full episode, Hannah Davison on How to Build a Meaningful Podcast: Storytelling, Sponsorships & Staying Lit Up: https://youtu.be/Fk9Q4WSSqYI

Watch it on YT or listen now wherever you get your podcasts.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ever wondered how podcasters get that crisp, professional sound, even when they’re recording from home? In this episode, we’re diving deep into the art (and science) of creating the perfect home recording setup.

Whether you’re recording from your spare room, a walk-in wardrobe, or a corner of your office, I break down everything you need to know: from choosing the right microphone to mastering mic technique and creating a sound-friendly space that still looks great on camera.

Whether you’re just starting out or levelling up your setup, this episode gives you the confidence (and the gear know-how) to record broadcast-quality audio from home.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• The different types of microphones (dynamic, condenser, omnidirectional, cardioid) and which one is right for your voice and recording environment
• How to create the ideal recording space, including soundproofing hacks, lighting tips, and visual setup ideas that look great on video
• Mic technique for solo and in-person recording: how to position yourself and your guests for clear, balanced audio
• The best recording equipment and software, including audio interfaces, mixers, and recording apps (plus why you should never use Zoom or Teams)
• Monitoring and recording tips: how to wear headphones, watch your levels, and check for distortion before you hit record
• What to do after recording, from saving and backing up files to next steps in editing and production

Wanna go deeper?

🎙️ For resources: https://www.maxenelondoncreative.co.nz/blog

🙋‍♀️ To work with me: https://www.maxenelondoncreative.co.nz/podcasting-services

📱 To get connected: @wannapodcast & @maxenelondoncreative

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In a world of fast scrolling, clickbait headlines, and AI-generated everything, why does thoughtful storytelling still matter? In this “best of” episode segment, I speak with Melissa Chan-Green about why authenticity, accuracy, and community are at the heart of content that truly connects.

You’ll hear insights on:

🎙️ Why trust, balance, and truth are non-negotiable in storytelling

🎙️ How AI is shaping media and why critical thinking is more important than ever

🎙️ The rising issue of loneliness, and why shared experiences still matter

🎙️ How podcasts and radio create powerful, one-to-one connections with listeners

🎙️ Why podcasting at its core is about community, not vanity metrics

Whether you’re a podcaster, journalist, or content creator, this conversation is a reminder that while technology changes, the need for real human connection never does.

This clip is from the full episode, Melissa Chan-Green on thoughtful storytelling, trust-led interviews, and the importance of community: https://youtu.be/M72i-3y04KE

Watch it on YT or listen now wherever you get your podcasts.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this "best of" segment, Sharyn Casey shares what really makes content connect with an audience. Spoiler: it’s not about chasing trends... It’s about being authentic, sparking emotion, and letting your freak flag fly.

You’ll hear why good content always makes people feel something, whether that’s laughter, surprise, or even a little cringe.

We also talk about:

✨ Why authenticity matters more than ever in the age of AI

✨ How to spot fake vs. real emotion in content

✨ Practical advice for getting over the “cringe” factor and showing up as yourself

✨ Why engaged niche audiences are more powerful than big but passive numbers

This clip is from the full episode, Sharyn Casey on Good Content, Community, and Being a Good Person: https://youtu.be/u1aKV5rjnp0

Watch it on YT or listen now wherever you get your podcasts.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.