We're diving into the wild world of podcasting and pulling some juicy lessons from the legendary Saturday Night Live as it hits the big 5-0. Seriously, SNL didn’t just survive; it thrived, and we’re here to steal some of that magic for our own shows. From knowing your audience to embracing the weirdness, there’s a treasure trove of insights that can help us all level up our podcasting game. Forget about being boring—SNL took risks, and guess what? It paid off! So, buckle up and get ready to channel your inner SNL spirit, because we’re about to get creative and maybe a little absurd.

• SNL stands the test of time, and so should your podcast; don’t be boring!
• Know your audience, but also create content you want to see; it's a balance!
• Embrace weirdness in your podcast; it keeps things fresh and fun for everyone!
• Experimentation is key; SNL’s success came from trying new things, so should you!
• If you get bored, so will your listeners; keep it exciting or risk losing them!
• Word of mouth matters; promote your podcast like SNL promotes its guests!

Mentioned in this episode:

Do You Need a Podcast Coach

Bill Gates, Steve Jobs, Oprah Winfrey, and many others have had COACHES to help them with an outside view to help them shape their content. I will start my 20th year in podcasting and would love to help you follow the best practices of podcasting, and avoid the common mistakes and avoid those steps that lead to burnout.

School of Podcasting

I'd Love To Meet You - Here is Where I Will Be

I will be manning the Podpage booth at Podcast Movement in Chicago and Dallas. For more information go to www.schoolofpodcasting.com/where If you would like to me speak at your even (on or offline) go to www.schoolofpodcasitng.com/contact

Where Will I Be?

Check Out Dave's Newsletter With Behind the Scenes Content

In each issue of Podcasting Observations, I share my thoughts on what is happening in the podcasting space, my latest content, and things that have caught my eye. I also may ask for your opinion. Join the free community

Podcasting Observations

Danny Pena is back on the mic, and let me tell you, he’s got stories that’ll make you believe in the power of podcasting. After 20 years of grinding with Gamertag Radio, Danny shares all the wild opportunities that have come his way, and trust me, it's not just luck; it's hustle. Danny DOES THE WORK.

From interviewing gaming legends to landing a gig at the New York Stock Exchange, Danny shows us that if you know your audience and stay true to yourself, the sky's the limit. We dig into how he built connections that led to his success, proving that networking isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the real deal. So grab your headphones and get ready to be inspired—this is one ride you don’t want to miss!

• Danny Pena has been podcasting for 20 years, proving that persistence pays off.
• Building relationships through podcasting can lead to incredible opportunities and experiences.
• Getting to know your audience is key to creating content they love and respond to.
• Danny's success shows that focusing on impact rather than just numbers can lead to growth.
• Networking in person is crucial; nothing beats face-to-face connections for opportunities.
• Opportunities arise from being genuine and building a solid reputation in your field.

Links referenced in this episode:

• schoolofpodcasting.com - use the coupon listener
• gamertagradio.com
• https://www.dannyandriana.com/ <
• Danny Peña: Keep it Fun and Master Your Craft -EP827
• Danny Peña Is On a Mission For Additional Listeners - EP633
• Commitment to Community: How Danny Peña Grew His Podcast Audience - RP506
• The Danny and Riana Show

Mentioned in this episode:

Question of the Month: Podcasting Pet Peave

You're listening to a podcast, and someone does _______ and you just roll your eyes, maybe skip this episode, maybe unfollow. What is your top podcast pet peeve? Be sure to mention the name of your show, a little bit about it, and your website address (so I can link to it in the episode description). I need your answer by 2/21/25

Question of the Month

Do You Need a Podcast Coach

Bill Gates, Steve Jobs, Oprah Winfrey, and many others have had COACHES to help them with an outside view to help them shape their content. I will start my 20th year in podcasting and would love to help you follow the best practices of podcasting, and avoid the common mistakes and avoid those steps that lead to burnout.

School of Podcasting

I'd Love To Meet You - Here is Where I Will Be

I will be manning the Podpage booth at Podcast Movement in Chicago and Dallas. For more information go to www.schoolofpodcasting.com/where If you would like to me speak at...

YouTube just dropped a report on what makes content good, and spoiler alert: it’s not just about looking pretty. Turns out, folks care way more about what’s being said than how fancy the background is. If you want to create stuff that really resonates, whether it's on YouTube or just in audio, you gotta aim for emotional connection. You know, the kind that makes you laugh, cry, or think, not just scroll mindlessly. So, if you’re ready to step up your content game and stop stressing over that bowl of cereal in the background, stick around!

YouTube just dropped a bombshell report on what makes content tick, and honestly, it's a game-changer for all of us trying to create stuff that doesn't suck. So, I dove deep into this thing, and guess what? Turns out, whether you're slinging videos or just talking into a microphone like yours truly, the core principles of good content are pretty much the same. They say good content should make you laugh, cry, or at least think a little—basically, it needs to resonate. And if you're worried about your background lighting or if your hair is on point, spoiler alert: it doesn't matter as much as you think. We're talking about a study that found less than 1% of viewers care about visuals, and really, if your audio is clear and your video isn't shot in a black hole, you're already ahead of the game.

But let's dive into the juicy bits. The report highlighted that emotional engagement is key. If your content doesn't hit people in the feels, you're just another background noise in their lives. And I get it; we all want to be relatable. If viewers can see themselves in your stories, you're golden. Authenticity is the name of the game—be real, be you, and stop trying to copy what everyone else is doing. This isn't a high school talent show where you're just trying to impress the popular kids; it's about creating a connection. So, whether you’re crafting a podcast episode or filming a YouTube video, focus on being genuine and let your unique voice shine through.

To wrap it up—what I gleaned from this report is that content creation isn't just about looking good or having the fanciest gear. It's about creating something that makes people feel like their time was well spent. And if you can throw in a good story or two, you’re well on your way to winning their hearts (and ears). So roll up your sleeves, get comfy with your mic or camera, and remember: it's all about the content, my friends.

• YouTube's report shows that content is about connecting emotionally, not just visuals.
• Good content should make people feel something, whether it's laughter or nostalgia.
• Don't stress about backgrounds or fancy gear; clear audio is what really matters.
• Being authentic and relatable is key to engaging your audience effectively.

School of Podcasting

Coach Builder: How to Turn Your Expertise Into a Profitable Coaching

School of Podcasting Audience Survey

Joe Rogan Episode 1

Jim Harold Paranormal Podcast

Mentioned in this episode:

I'd Love To Meet You - Here is Where I Will Be

I will be manning the Podpage booth at Podcast Movement in Chicago and Dallas. For more information go to www.schoolofpodcasting.com/where If you would like to me speak at your even (on or offline) go to...

Every podcast can benefit from editing because it enhances the listening experience by removing the boring parts and keeping the content engaging. While authenticity is important, it shouldn't come at the cost of listener engagement. Effective editing can transform a good conversation into a great podcast by honing in on valuable content and eliminating distractions. By focusing on who your audience is and what they want to hear, you can make informed decisions on what to keep and what to cut. Ultimately, I encourage podcasters to see editing as a technical task and a creative opportunity to present their best work and respect their listeners' time.

• Editing helps improve the quality of your podcast by removing uninteresting or redundant content.
• A podcast should be a conversation with the boring parts removed for better engagement.
• Understanding your audience is crucial for determining what content to keep or cut.
• Planning your episodes effectively can reduce the time needed for editing later on.
• It's important to focus on making your podcast a favorite for listeners, not just good enough.
• Using editing tools wisely can enhance your show's clarity without sacrificing authenticity.

• schoolofpodcasting.com
• podcastsconnect.apple.com
• podcasters.spotify.com
• schoolofpodcasting.com/survey25

Mentioned in this episode:

2025 Audience Survey

Question of the Month: Podcasting Pet Peave

You're listening to a podcast, and someone does _______ and you just roll your eyes, maybe skip this episode, maybe unfollow. What is your top podcast pet peeve? Be sure to mention the name of your show, a little bit about it, and your website address (so I can link to it in the episode description). I need your answer by 2/21/25

Question of the Month

I'd Love To Meet You - Here is Where I Will Be

I will be manning the Podpage booth at Podcast Movement in Chicago and Dallas. For more information go to www.schoolofpodcasting.com/where If you would like to me speak at your even (on or offline) go to www.schoolofpodcasitng.com/contact

Where Will I Be?

Unlimited One-On-One Coaching

Struggling to grow your podcast or turn your ideas into a show that stands out? With over 20 years of experience, Hall of Fame podcaster Dave Jackson offers one-on-one coaching designed to fast-track your success. Whether you're launching, refining, or scaling your podcast, Dave cuts through the noise with expert insights, proven strategies, and personalized guidance. Avoid costly mistakes, master your message, and build an engaged audience—without being overwhelmed. Ready to make your podcast impossible to ignore? Let’s make it happen.

School of Podcasting

Starting a podcast in 2025 can be a daunting decision, but the real question is whether it’s worth it for you personally. The answer often hinges on your motivations and available time, as podcasting requires commitment and passion.

I look into the statistics and share insights about the competitive landscape of podcasting versus other platforms like YouTube, illustrating that while the odds can seem slim, the rewards can be substantial if approached with the right mindset.

I emphasize the importance of focusing on why you're starting your podcast and what you hope to achieve rather than solely chasing fame or financial success. Ultimately, the value of podcasting lies in the enjoyment and connections it fosters, making it a worthwhile endeavor for those who genuinely love the craft.

• Starting a podcast in 2025 can be worthwhile, depending on your personal goals and circumstances.
• The motivations for starting a podcast should be rooted in passion rather than financial gain.
• Podcasting leads to building relationships, which can create more opportunities for growth.
• Evaluating your reasons for podcasting is crucial to determine its worth to you.
• The competitive landscape for podcasting is much smaller compared to platforms like YouTube.
• Success in podcasting often depends on consistent effort and the ability to enjoy the process.

• School of Podcasting
• AI Goes to College
• Ask Ralph Podcast
• Geologic Podcast
• Old Testament with Mom
• Interview with Doc G
• Purpose Code Book

Mentioned in this episode:

I Want Your Opinion

I am doing an audience survey and I want your input to help me make this show exactly what you want. If you have a few minutes, I have a quick survey at www.schoolofpodcasting.com/survey25

2025 Audience Survey

2025 Audience Survey

Question of the Month: Podcasting Pet Peave

You're listening to a podcast, and someone does _______ and you just roll your eyes, maybe skip this episode, maybe unfollow. What is your top podcast pet peeve? Be sure to mention the name of your show, a little bit about it, and your website address (so I can link to it in the episode description). I need your answer by 2/21/25

Question of the Month

Are you worried about not just starting a podcast, but keeping it going? I dig into essential strategies for sustaining your podcasting journey, emphasizing the importance of knowing your "why." I share personal stories and actionable tips to help you identify your passion and maintain motivation.

From brainstorming episode ideas to understanding the time commitment, I encourage you to start small and seek feedback. I also discuss the significance of focusing on the aspects of podcasting you love, ensuring the process remains enjoyable and fulfilling.

• Understanding your 'why' is crucial for sustaining your podcast long-term and keeping you motivated.
• Creating at least 10 episode ideas can help you maintain content flow and avoid burnout.
• Start simple to avoid overwhelming yourself with complex setups and equipment.
• Seek feedback from non-family members to ensure your content resonates with your target audience.
• Recording practice episodes can help you gauge time investment and refine your skills before launching publicly.
• Remember, not every podcast needs to last forever; it's okay to stop when your message is delivered.

• schoolofpodcasting.com
• schoolofpodcasting.com/survey25
• buzzsprout.com/stats
• Shure MV7i
• Shure Move Mic Lavaliers
• Rode Podmic USB
• sweetwater.com
• bhphotovideo.com
• podpage.com
• Dealcasters
• Castahead
• Babel Language Learning.

Mentioned in this episode:

I'd Love To Meet You - Here is Where I Will Be

I will be manning the Podpage booth at Podcast Movement in Chicago and Dallas. For more information go to www.schoolofpodcasting.com/where If you would like to me speak at your even (on or offline) go to www.schoolofpodcasitng.com/contact

Where Will I Be?

2025 Audience Survey

Join the #1 Podcast Education Site - The School of Podcasting

Adam Curry is the co-founder of Podcasting (and the co-host of the No Agenda Show). When asked about learning how to podcast Adam said, "The place to go with the guy who has taught more people how to podcast than anybody I know - Dave Jackson, School of Podcasting.com"

School of Podcasting

I Want Your Opinion

I am doing an audience survey and I want your input to help me make this show exactly what you want. If you have a few minutes, I have a quick survey at www.schoolofpodcasting.com/survey25

In this episode, I’m joined by Doc G (Dr. Jordan Grumet), the author of The Purpose Code: How to unlock meaning, maximize happiness, and leave a lasting legacy, to tackle one of the biggest challenges podcasters face—not the technology, not the gear,

- but the mental game.

Whether it's "head trash," imposter syndrome, or the overwhelming pressure to succeed, Doc G shares practical strategies to help you push past mental barriers and create a podcast you truly love.

Doc G shares his journey from a successful medical career to finding purpose and fulfillment in podcasting and writing. Together, we explore how to shift your focus from Big P Podcasting (chasing massive downloads and unrealistic goals) to Little P Podcasting (finding joy in the process and creating meaningful content).

You’ll also hear about:

• The difference between "big P purpose" and "little P purpose"—and why it matters for your podcast.
• How to identify what lights you up and makes your podcast worth doing, even if no one listens.
• Why striving for massive success without joy often leads to burnout.
• Practical tips for overcoming purpose anxiety and building a podcasting routine you love.

The Purpose Code: How to unlock meaning, maximize happiness, and leave a lasting legacy

The Purpose Code Video Trailer

Taking Stock: A Hospice Doctor's Advice on Financial Independence, Building Wealth, and Living a Regret-Free Life

Earn & Invest Show

Zita does two podcasts: My Spouse Has Dementia and Ritual Recipes. Today, she shares how she was featured in US News and World Report because of her podcast. Paul Wynn had found her podcast (and her transcripts) and interviewed her for his article titled, Easing Holiday Isolation. US News and World Report has approximately 41 million visitors to their site per month. She was also interviewed for another newspaper.

For all things Zita Christian see zitachristian.com

• The mental barriers that podcasters face often overshadow technical challenges like equipment or hosting.
• Identifying and pursuing little 'p' purposes can lead to a more fulfilling podcasting journey.
• Creating a podcast driven by passion rather than big goals fosters genuine connections with listeners.
• Purpose anxiety can hinder progress, making it crucial to focus on what excites you.
• Engaging deeply with your podcast's content can attract a community that resonates with your message.
• Building a podcast around your interests creates joy and can lead to organic audience growth.

The School of Podcasting