New Media Show (Video)

In episode 656 of the New Media Show, Podcast Hall of Famer Rob Greenlee is joined by Jay Nachlis, Media Research VP at Coleman Insights. “It’s a timely and deeper conversation about Apple Podcasts moving more aggressively into HLS video streaming and what that really means for the future of podcasting, audience behavior, platform competition, and creator strategy in 2026.” This episode goes far beyond the Apple announcement itself. Jay brings a strong audience research and brand strategy perspective to the conversation, and together we dig into the real question behind all of this: will Apple’s push into video actually change listener and viewer behavior, or is this simply Apple trying to catch up to audience habits that are already being shaped by YouTube and Spotify? “Apple Podcasts still has major brand recognition in podcasting, but may face an uphill battle in the current environment where YouTube has become the default platform for video-based podcast discovery, and Spotify continues to build a more native monetization and creator ecosystem.” We talk about how audience habits often outweigh platform features, why consumer perception matters as much as technical innovation, and whether Apple can reclaim any meaningful momentum in a category it helped establish years ago. We also discuss how this shift is creating a more fragmented publishing environment for creators. Audio and video are no longer just different formats. They increasingly represent different user expectations, different discovery paths, and different monetization opportunities. “We discuss the growing need for creators to think strategically about separate audio and video feeds, platform-native publishing, HLS streaming delivery, audience experience, and the long-term risks of overreliance on closed ecosystems.” Jay and I also explore the broader competitive chessboard. That includes YouTube’s dominance in video & video podcast consumption, Spotify’s continued attempts to define its role in both audio and video, and even whether players like Netflix could successfully move into podcast-adjacent content formats. This episode is really about where podcasting is headed as a medium, not just one Apple feature update. If you are a podcaster, creator, media strategist, advertiser, or platform watcher trying to understand where podcasting, video, discovery, and monetization are all heading next, this is an episode you should not miss. Chapters: 00:00 Apple Video Podcast Push 00:47 Meet the Hosts 01:56 Apple Streaming Update 03:14 Early Podcasting Era 05:19 YouTube Spotify Takeover 07:05 Can Apple Compete 08:25 Research YouTube Wins UX 10:30 Awareness Drives Usage 12:07 Netflix Podcasting Fit 15:58 Discovery Algorithms Habits 18:10 Apple Video Hidden Toggle 19:26 Audio Quality vs Video 22:22 Brand Content Trust Matrix 24:05 Apple Podcasts Brand Gap 24:51 Differentiation Over Video 25:41 RSS and HLS Debate 27:09 Why Listeners Choose Apple 28:03 Zune Era Video Podcasts 30:07 YouTube Parallel History 30:59 Winning Tech Standards 33:16 Reaching Younger Audiences 36:48 Hosting Costs and HLS 39:05 Creator Burden of Video 41:20 Future Screens in Cars 43:23 Marketing and Discovery Fixes 45:35 Alternative Enclosures Path 46:49 Wrap Up and Where to Follow Guest Jay Nachlis LinksJay Nachlis LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaynachlis/Coleman Insights: https://colemaninsights.com/Tuesdays with Coleman: https://colemaninsights.com/blog/ Host Rob Greenlee and Show LinksNew Media Show: https://newmediashow.com/Rob Greenlee: https://robgreenlee.com/Trust Factor Lab: https://trustfactorlab.com/Adore Creator Network: https://adorenetwork.com/Podcast Hall of Fame: https://podcasthall.com/Rob Greenlee YouTube: https://youtube.com/@robgreenleeRob Greenlee LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/robgreenleeRob Greenlee Instagram: https://instagram.com/robwgreenlee The post Can Apple Make Video Podcasts Matter? | Jay Nachlis #656 first appeared on New Media Show.

Podcast discovery feels harder in 2026, not because creators stopped trying, but because attention is now split across podcast apps, YouTube, short-form video feeds, newsletters, and search-driven recommendations. On this recorded episode of the New Media Show, host Rob Greenlee shares the screen and a microphone with Arielle Nissenblatt, 2026 Podcast Hall of Famer and Founder of EarBuds Podcast Collective and Head of Community and Content at Pinwheel by Audily, to break down what is actually changing right now and what creators can still do that consistently grows audience and trust. “Arielle brings a listener-first, creator-first perspective that cuts through the noise. Platforms matter, but they are not the whole story. If a show is not clearly positioned, consistently delivered, and genuinely recommendable, the best metadata in the world will not create retention.” This episode focuses on the practical middle ground: respect the power of platforms, but build your growth strategy around behaviors you can control. “A big part of that conversation is Apple’s renewed push into video podcasts and what an HLS-based video experience signals for the direction of distribution.” Rob frames it as part of a broader convergence toward a unified listen-and-watch experience, where measurement and monetization are easier for platforms when content is native. “Arielle agrees that video is becoming an important top-of-funnel entry point, not because every show should be video-first, but because platforms can more easily optimize what they can see, track, and sell.” We also talk through Spotify’s monetization strategy and what it means when major platforms keep building native paths to get paid. The underlying point is that creators need to understand the economics behind product decisions. “The more platforms own the experience, the more they can shape the rules of distribution, monetization, and visibility.” Then we get into the part that matters most for working creators: what still works. “Arielle argues that recommendation culture remains one of the most underused growth engines in podcasting. Word of mouth, curated lists, and community flywheels can outperform algorithm chasing, especially for shows that serve a clear audience with a clear promise.” That is exactly why EarBuds has remained durable for years in a market that constantly reinvents itself. “Human curation is still a superpower because it creates trusted signals that travel even when platforms turn the knobs.” Community comes up too, with a reality check. Not every show needs a community, and not every audience wants one. “The test is whether people are already reaching for a deeper connection and shared identity around your content. When that demand exists, the community can compound trust and retention. When it does not, forcing it can drain your energy and distract you from the actual product, the show.” If you are building in 2026, the creators who win are not the ones who panic-switch formats every quarter. They are the ones who lock in a format strategy, build audience ownership where possible, and package their content for multiple environments without losing the core promise that makes listeners return. Quick answers people are searching for: Is podcast discovery broken in 2026? It is fragmented. People discover shows across apps, video platforms, newsletters, and search experiences, so creators need packaging that works across multiple paths. Do I need a video to grow a podcast? Not always. Video is becoming a common entry point, but growth still comes from clarity, consistency, and ease of recommendation. What is the fastest reliable growth lever right now? Recommendation loops: collaborations, curated lists, newsletters, and audience sharing that create real trust signals. What should creators prioritize this year? Format strategy, audience ownership, cross-platform packaging, and a repeatable workflow you can sustain. Show and Guest Links: Host Rob Greenlee https://robgreenlee.com/ (Rob Greenlee) New Media Show https://newmediashow.com/ (New Media Show) Rob Greenlee Live Podcasts https://robgreenlee.com/live-podcasts/ (Rob Greenlee) Rob Greenlee & New Media Show YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@RobGreenlee (Rob Greenlee) Spoken Human Show – YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@spokenhuman (Rob Greenlee) LinkedIn – Rob Greenlee https://www.linkedin.com/in/robgreenlee (Rob Greenlee) Instagram – Rob Greenlee https://www.instagram.com/robwgreenlee (Rob Greenlee) X.com – Rob Greenlee https://x.com/robgreenlee (Rob Greenlee) Adore Podcast Network https://AdoreNetwork.com (Rob Greenlee) Podcast Hall of Fame https://PodcastHall.com (Rob Greenlee) Guest Arielle Nissenblatt LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arielle-nissenblatt EarBuds Podcast Collective: https://earbuds.audio/ Pinwheel by Audily: https://pinwheelshows.com/The post Podcast Gro

As AI becomes more embedded into content creation, discovery, and distribution, one truth is becoming clearer: the long-term winners in media may not be the fastest or the most automated. They may be the most human. That was the core idea behind this conversation with Erin Diehl of Improve It! and the host of the Workday Playdate Podcast, and New Media Show host and Podcast Hall of Fame Inductee Rob Greenlee on New Media Show Episode 654, where we explored what it really means to build a media business rooted in trust, emotional connection, authenticity, and memorable audience experiences. Erin Diehl, founder of improve it! and host of the Workday Playdate podcast, brings a distinctive perspective to this discussion. Her work sits at the intersection of improv, leadership, communication, and community-building. On her podcast and in her live workshops, she focuses on helping people reconnect with empathy, listening, adaptability, humor, and playfulness as practical tools for stronger communication and leadership. Erin describes those same qualities as the traits of both a great improviser and a great human, and that framing shaped this entire conversation. (itserindiehl.com) What made this episode especially timely is that it did not treat AI as the enemy. Instead, it argued that AI is becoming part of the infrastructure of modern media, especially in discovery, distribution, workflow, and scale, while human presence remains the true differentiator. I said during the episode that creators are still in the human media business, and Erin agreed that what continues to work is the authenticity of human experience. That idea matters because audiences are increasingly surrounded by an abundance of content. When everything becomes easier to generate, the value of presence, perspective, vulnerability, and emotional resonance goes up. Erin argued that humanity is not becoming less important in the AI era. It is becoming more important. She pointed to empathy, trust, culture, and connection as qualities that are not going away, even as new technologies reshape jobs, workflows, and media formats. A major theme in this conversation was the role of play in serious work. Erin’s approach is not about being frivolous. It is about using play, improv, and emotional openness to create real breakthroughs in communication. In her workshops, she guides people step by step out of their comfort zones, not to embarrass them but to help them reconnect with spontaneity, attentiveness, and confidence. She explained that many adults lose that natural instinct for play as they grow older, replacing it with judgment, self-doubt, and emotional caution. Her work is designed to reverse some of that pattern and reawaken more authentic human interaction. We also talked about how this translates directly into content creation. Erin shared that her podcast has become more than just a show. It is part of a broader ecosystem that supports her workshops, speaking, community, and business growth. She uses monthly themes to shape her episodes, guest selection, social content, and offers. That strategy helps create consistency, clarity, and a stronger trust pathway between audience attention and business outcomes. It is a smart reminder that a podcast today often works best when it is part of a larger media and relationship-building system. Another valuable part of this episode was Erin’s openness about team building. She made it clear that creating across podcasting, social media, video, live events, and community is difficult to sustain on one’s own. She credited her team with helping manage production, guest coordination, marketing, logistics, sales, and creative execution. That is an important lesson for professional creators and media entrepreneurs. Building a durable media business often means building systems and support around your voice, not trying to do every part of the machine alone. We also dug into mindset, self-expression, and the emotional reality of being a creator today. Erin spoke candidly about doubt, comparison, and the danger of code-switching or muting your true personality to fit an environment. Her advice was direct: find the people, audiences, and teams that allow you to be more fully yourself. In a media environment increasingly shaped by algorithmic incentives and imitation, that may be one of the most important strategic advantages a creator can have. This episode is really about a bigger question facing everyone in podcasting, video, and digital media right now: if AI can help produce and distribute content at scale, what still makes a creator matter? The answer from this conversation is not just better tools or smarter systems. It is humanity. It is the ability to make people feel seen, understood, energized, and connected. That is what creates trust. That is what builds community. And that is what makes a media business more durable over time. Brief Episode Description In New Media Show Episode 654, Rob Greenlee

Todd Cochrane Founder of Blubrry Podcasting and Rob Greenlee of Libsyn discuss ad loads and the now verifiable proof that ads loads in some shows are starting to piss listeners off. Is it the greed of networks, podcasters or is it the start of disdain for listeners while some have increased privacy tracking to target listeners in ways they cannot opt-out of. Also, what does the shuttering of Chartable mean for many podcasters left hanging. Donate to the show and Support this podcast. Send a Sticker Get a Sticker: Send us your show sticker and we will send you a New Media Show Sticker. Get on our sticker board for the show. New Media Productions 365 N Willowbrook Rd Suite: C Coldwater, Mi, 49036The post More Podcast Ads Please! Load em up! #489 first appeared on New Media Show.

New Media Show #652 with Rob Greenlee and Lauren Shippen On Episode 652 of the New Media Show, host Rob Greenlee shares a screen with Lauren Shippen, Creative Director at Atypical Artists, to tackle a growing tension in creator media around audio fiction, which is thriving as a storytelling format but is being pressure-tested by the industry’s video-first discovery push. Fiction podcasts did not stop working. What changed is how platforms signal value, how audiences discover new shows, and how creators feel forced to look video-ready to compete. The real question for fiction creators in 2026 is not “How do I force my story into video?” It is “How do I protect the magic of audio storytelling while adding the right discovery layers for today’s platforms?” Lauren shares what fiction creators often misunderstand about sustainability, what typically breaks first when the story stalls, and where video helps, hurts, or becomes unrealistic. Rob lays out a practical framework for separating audio as the product from video as the discovery layer, plus realistic tiers of visual strategy that will not turn your show into a second production company. Quick answers for creators What is the episode about A practical conversation about protecting audio fiction storytelling while adapting to video-driven discovery across platforms in 2026. Should fiction podcasts become video podcasts to grow Not automatically. The strategy is to keep audio as the core product and use video selectively as a discovery layer when it improves reach without breaking the production model. What is the biggest mistake fiction creators make Trying to solve growth with promotion before fixing story retention fundamentals like onboarding, pacing, cadence, and season design. How should fiction shows think about video? As budget tiers. Start with lightweight discovery assets and only move toward full narrative adaptation if the economics and workflow support it. Topics we cover – Why fiction creators feel pulled between story-first goals and video-first platform expectations – The top growth inputs fiction creators still control, even when platforms shift – Story architecture that drives retention before promotion pacing, onboarding, cadence, and season design – Video pressure: what is real, what is hype, and what creators should ignore – Audio only vs video for fiction when format helps and when it hurts – Budget tiers for video lightweight discovery assets vs full narrative adaptation – Trailers as conversion assets and how to build a simple start here listener path – Why human recommendations still beat algorithm chasing for story shows Community reality checks what to prove before building Discord or fan spaces – Where AI helps scripted storytelling workflows, and where it can damage authorship and trust – A practical 30-day growth plan for fiction podcasters Chapters: 00:00 Story Versus Screen 01:41 Meet Lauren Shippen 03:22 What Counts As Podcast 06:00 Video As Discovery 08:18 Netflix Podcast Strategy 15:30 Monetization And Paywalls 19:48 Apple Video Feed Tension 22:36 Always On Audio Fiction 27:47 Audience Growth Beyond Podcasts 32:50 AI Slop Versus Art 40:21 Sports Analogy For AI 42:38 Why AI Lacks Heart 43:31 Gaming and Interactive Futures 45:03 If Everyone Can Generate It 47:10 The Internet Shapes AI Adoption 48:45 Podcasting as Human Story 51:14 Blurring Fiction and Truth 54:01 Atypical Artist Slate Tour 57:17 Making Shows Work Economically 01:03:54 Producing and Adapting Workflow 01:06:04 Origin Story Bright Sessions 01:10:21 New Projects and Immersive Marketing 01:14:14 Serial Model and Journalism Worries 01:15:38 Fiction Podcast Evolution 01:17:22 Wrap Up and Next Episode Tease Featured projects mentioned The Bright Sessions Rebel Robin 2000 and Late Breaker Whiskey Resource Links: Host: Rob Greenlee [https://robgreenlee.com] The New Media Show [https://newmediashow.com/] Adore Network [https://AdoreNetwork.com] Podcast Hall of Fame [https://PodcastHall.com] Rob on YouTube [https://YouTube.com/@RobGreenlee] Rob on LinkedIn [https://LinkedIn.com/in/robgreenlee] Guest: Lauren Shippen [https://www.laurenshippen.com/] Atypical Artists [https://www.atypicalartists.co/] Book Rob Calendly [https://calendly.com/robgreenlee]The post Can Fiction Story Podcasts Survive Video Push | Lauren Shippen #652 first appeared on New Media Show.

On Weds, February 18th Live Episode #651 of the New Media Show, Rob Greenlee, Host, 2017 Podcast Hall of Famer and CEO of Trust Factor Lab at https://RobGreenlee.com, and James Cridland, Editor, https://Podnews.net and 2026 Podcast Hall of Famer discuss Apple’s announcement of a new and improved video podcast experience in the Apple Podcasts app and what it changes technically and strategically heading into 2026. They explain how video was previously active in Apple Podcasts but was hidden and poorly presented in the iOS apps, and how this new updated experience makes video playback front and center, with a “turn video off” option that keeps the audio track playing. The episode breaks down Apple’s preferred move to HLS-based on-demand video delivery (via a separate, proprietary API HLS video streaming pass-through submission from approved hosting partners) while still supporting legacy MP4 video via RSS. They cover HLS basics (chunked delivery, adaptive quality, reduced bandwidth, and hosting costs), improved seeking/scrubbing versus progressive MP4 playback, and new measurement implications (better insight into drop-off and ad viewing). A major focus is monetization: Apple plans to enable dynamic ad insertion for HLS video and charge a per-impression fee, positioning Apple to take revenue without operating an ad business. The conversation notes early launch partners (Acast, Art19, Omny Studio, Simplecast), questions about specs and rollout timing (an app update is likely by the end of March; dynamic ad features later in the year), and the risk of platform fragmentation as distribution shifts from open RSS to proprietary APIs. James and Rob discuss alternate enclosures (Podcasting 2.0) as an open path to wider app support, reference iHeart’s stated support for video via RSS alternate enclosures, and highlight creator concerns about losing separate audio edits when video replaces the audio feed during playback. They also touch on device support (not initially on Apple TV; CarPlay doesn’t show video; Vision Pro support) and briefly discuss future RSS innovation ideas like comments, payments, transcripts, and location tags, plus a short note on upcoming podcast events (Podcast Show London, Podcast Movement New York, Podcast Movement at SXSW). Chapter Topics: 00:00 Welcome + Why Apple’s Video Podcast Update Matters 01:31 Apple Brings Video Front-and-Center (and Why Now) 06:00 The New Playback Experience: Full-Screen Video & One Feed 10:49 How Apple’s HLS Video Works (and Why It’s Better) 11:36 The Money Shift: Dynamic Video Ads & Apple’s Per-Impression Fee 17:59 Rollout Timeline, Unknown Specs, and Early Partner Shows 23:54 Partners, Two Ingestion Paths, and the RSS vs HLS Debate 34:47 Hands-On Demo: Video Icons, Turn Video Off, and MP4 vs HLS 39:47 Bandwidth, Scrubbing, and What HLS Enables for Measurement 44:16 Quality/Resolution Questions + Missing Apple TV (for Now) 46:26 CarPlay & Vision Pro: Where Apple Podcasts Video Actually Plays 47:09 Will HLS Replace MP3 for Audio? Monetization, Costs, and Reality Check 49:51 Apple vs Spotify: Open Hosting, Dynamic Ads, and Why This Helps Creators 52:30 Audio Isn’t ‘Video Without Pictures’: Why Separate Edits Matter 55:21 Will It Work With Spotify for Creators? Partners, Megaphone, and Pressure 01:00:02 How HLS Interstitials Work: Client-Side Ad Breaks and Spec Unknowns 01:07:48 Keeping RSS Relevant: Alternate Enclosures, Comments, Payments, and New Tags 01:13:48 Local Podcasting & Specialized Apps: Location Tag, TuneIn, and the Future 01:20:20 Wrap-Up: Conferences, Cold Weather, and Final Goodbyes What you will learn in this episode – How Apple’s HLS video differs from RSS MP4 enclosures in real-world creator workflows – Why HLS segment-based delivery enables adaptive streaming and modern video ad insertion – What Apple’s limited launch partner list means for hosting competition and creator choice (Podnews) – https://podnews.net/article/video-apple-podcasts-details – How Apple Podcasts Connect API keys work, and what they do and do not grant to hosting providers – https://podcasters.apple.com/support/5593-how-to-publish-video – How creators should decide between RSS video, Apple HLS video, and other platform video strategies in 2026 – https://www.theverge.com/tech/879749/apple-podcasts-video-swap-hls-live-streaming Links for show notes Watch live or On Demand https://newmediashow.com Apple announcement https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2026/02/apple-introduces-a-new-video-podcast-experience-on-apple-podcasts/ Apple creator documentation https://podcasters.apple.com/video-apple-podcasts https://podcasters.apple.com/support/5593-how-to-publish-video https://podcasters.apple.com/support/3684-video-podcasts Podnews analysis https://podnews.net/article/video-apple-podcasts-details https://podnews.net/update/apple-podcasts-hero Guest James Cridland, Editor, https://Podnews.net https://james.cridland.net/biograph

AI-generated podcast hosts and shows are rapidly changing podcasting, video podcasting, and the creator economy across all distribution platforms, including AI LLMs. In this episode of The New Media Show Live #650 from Feb 4th, 2026, Host Rob Greenlee, CEO/Founder of Trust Factor Lab, explores how AI-generated podcasts affect people, trust, and the future of media with Jeanine Wright, Co-Founder and CEO of Inception Point AI. Jeanine Wright will help us better understand what Inception Point AI is building and why AI-generated personalities are different from human-created podcasts and AI-assisted editing tools. This conversation is designed to help podcasters, creators, media executives, and advertisers understand AI-generated podcast content without fear. It will be a clear, accurate discussion about how synthetic hosts work, how audiences respond emotionally, and what the next 12 to 24 months may look like as AI improves. As humans seem to be rejecting AI-generated content, its human consumption is growing and quality is rapidly improving. Key topics covered in this 60-minute conversation -AI-generated podcast hosts and synthetic media explained in plain language -How AI personalities are created using story plus technology -How listeners build trust and emotional attachment with AI voices -Disclosure and transparency for AI-generated content -Authenticity and credibility in AI-created podcasts versus human-created podcasts -Ethics, consent, voice, likeness, and IP issues in synthetic media -Brand safety, advertising readiness, and monetization for AI-hosted shows -Platform discovery and distribution when AI content volume explodes -What human creators should do now to stay differentiated and future-proof? -Practical strategies for building trust and growth in 2026 and beyond Who this episode is for -Podcast creators and video creators -Media companies, podcast networks, and platform teams -Advertisers and brand safety leaders -Listeners curious about AI-generated content and the future of podcasting Watch live at YouTube.com/@RobGreenlee and join the conversation Watch On-Demand/Podcast Audio and Video Versions at https://newmediashow.com Guest Jeanine Wright, Inception Point AI https://www.inceptionpoint.ai Host Rob Greenlee https://robgreenlee.com https://www.youtube.com/@RobGreenlee https://www.youtube.com/@spokenhuman https://www.linkedin.com/in/robgreenlee https://www.instagram.com/robwgreenlee https://x.com/robgreenlee https://AdoreNetwork.com https://PodcastHall.com 00:00 Introduction to the New Media Show 00:55 Guest Introduction: Janine Wright 01:42 Addressing AI Controversies 05:18 AI’s Impact on Jobs and Content Quality 13:36 Exploring AI-Generated Content 14:41 AI Personalities and Content Creation 22:42 Future of AI in Content Creation 31:32 Transparency and Ethical Considerations 43:25 Human Creators in an AI-Driven World 46:40 Exploring Swap Farms and Bot Traffic 47:28 The Evolution of Podcast Quality 50:45 AI in Video Content Creation 52:20 Digital Clones and Ethical Considerations 56:50 AI Personalities and Content Creation 01:04:19 The Future of AI in Podcasting 01:23:09 Advertiser Reactions and Industry Impact 01:25:43 Final Thoughts and Future ConversationsThe post How AI-Created Podcasts Impacting Humans? | Jeanine Wright #650 first appeared on New Media Show.

This week in episode 649 of the New Media Show, Rob Greenlee is joined by Jordan Harbinger to unpack the question creators ask nonstop in 2026: What actually grows a podcast or show (and what doesn’t)? – Jordan’s core answer is refreshingly “boring,” but real: long-term consistency, and realistic expectations about how long monetization can take—even for shows that eventually become huge. From there, the conversation expands into the bigger shift happening right now: – Audio podcasts increasingly competing (and collaborating) with video ecosystems especially YouTube where the “rules” and algorithmic expectations are fundamentally different from audio distribution. They also dig into platform strategy and brand-fit tension like whether “talk show” style content truly belongs on Netflix, and why creators may face tough tradeoffs when platforms want exclusivity that can limit reach elsewhere. After Jordan wraps and leaves the show, Rob closes with a rapid-fire, ranked set of growth plays emphasizing that none are magic bullets, but together they form a practical menu you can test based on your format and audience: – Short-form clips (done well) to reach different audiences while recognizing shorts viewers don’t always convert to long-form listeners/viewers. – Guest/social amplification that’s genuinely value-add (not generic promo spam). – Niche community, value-first posting built around knowing exactly who your show serves. – Owned audience via email/newsletter + even a WhatsApp group concept. – AI clip volume + testing (alternate cuts, tighter versions, experimentation). – Structured cross-promos / feed drops with comparable shows and fair “impressions”-style thinking. – Video distribution expansion including Spotify video (if Spotify makes changes) as another potential growth surface—and the emerging “start audio, finish video” behavior across devices. Guest: Jordan Harbinger Website: https://www.jordanharbinger.com Podcast: https://www.jordanharbinger.com/podcast/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JordanHarbinger Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jordanharbinger/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordanharbinger X: https://x.com/jordanharbinger Host: Rob Greenlee and New Media Show Links Rob Greenlee Website – https://robgreenlee.com/ New Media Show (Audio & Video) – https://newmediashow.com/ New Media Show Audio (Apple Podcasts) – https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/new-media-show-audio/id392545649 Rob Greenlee on YouTube – https://youtube.com/@RobGreenlee Podfest Expo – https://podfestexpo.com – https://podcasthall.comThe post What Actually Grows a Podcast or Show Now? | Jordan Harbinger #649 first appeared on New Media Show.

The New Media Show #648 Live On-Stage at Podfest Expo (Jan 16, 2026) Where Audio, Video, and AI Flow Together Recorded live on stage at Podfest Expo in Orlando, Rob Greenlee is joined by three of the smartest voices shaping where podcasting is headed right now: James Cridland (Podnews), Rox Codes (Flightcast), and Philip Nelson (Nelco Media). This episode tackles the collision of audio RSS, platform-native video, and AI-powered creator workflows and why the podcast conversation in 2026 is less about labels and more about content that works everywhere. What we cover: -Audio podcasting vs video podcasting and what audiences actually want -Why content first matters more than format wars -The roots of video in early podcasting and why it feels full circle again -Fragmented audiences across YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Shorts -Practical creator strategy packaging, titles, thumbnails, retention, and workflow systems that scale Guests and Links: James Cridland Podnews – https://podnews.net/ Podnews Weekly Review – https://weekly.podnews.net/ Rox Codes Flightcast – https://flightcast.com/ Rox Codes – https://rox.codes/ Philip Nelson Nelco Media – https://nelco.media/ Philip Nelson – https://nelco.media/about/ Rob Greenlee and New Media Show Links Rob Greenlee Website – https://robgreenlee.com/ New Media Show (Audio & Video) – https://newmediashow.com/ New Media Show Audio (Apple Podcasts) – https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/new-media-show-audio/id392545649 Rob Greenlee on YouTube – https://youtube.com/@RobGreenlee Podfest Expo – https://podfestexpo.com – https://podcasthall.comThe post Where Audio, Video, and AI Flow Together | Podfest Panel #648 first appeared on New Media Show.

The New Media Show Episode 647 Live on Jan 21st, 20026 at 6pm ET. Show Topic: Digital Creator 2026 Money Playbook Content Creator’s Business and Financial Strategies are moving faster than ever with video, audio podcasting, AI tools, and nonstop platform changes, but many are still running the business side like a hobby. The New Media Show with Rob Greenlee is joined live by Ralph Estep Jr, licensed accountant and host of The Content Creators Accountant, to break down the simple money systems creators need to turn creator chaos into calm financial clarity. If you earn from YouTube AdSense, brand deals and UGC, affiliate income, memberships and subscriptions, courses, coaching, digital products, or PayPal and Stripe payouts, this episode is built for you. Topics we cover: – How to separate business money from personal without overcomplicating it – How to track income across multiple platforms without headaches – How to set aside taxes automatically even in uneven months – How to make smarter gear decisions without wrecking cash flow – How to build simple repeatable financial systems that creators can follow – What to focus on in 2026 to run a real creator business that lasts – 2026 Podcast Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on Jan 16th, 2026 Watch Live and Subscribe: New Media Show Website – https://newmediashow.com Rob Greenlee Website – https://robgreenlee.com Rob Greenlee YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@RobGreenlee Podcast Hall of Fame – https://podcasthall.com Adore Creator Network – https://AdoreNetwork.com Passion Struck Network – https://PassionStruckNetwork.com Rob Greenlee LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/robgreenlee Book Rob Greenlee – https://calendly.com/robgreenlee Ralph Estep Jr Links: Content Creators Accountant Website and free resources https://contentcreatorsaccountant.com The Content Creators Accountant Podcast https://contentcreatorsaccountant.com/podcastThe post Digital Creator 2026 Money Playbook | Ralph Estep Jr. #647 first appeared on New Media Show.

Todd Cochrane Founder of Blubrry Podcasting and Rob Greenlee of Libsyn are joined by Facebook Podcast team members Chelsea White, Chelsea is the Product Manager for the Podcast Core Experience, and is responsible for the playback and listening experiences, as well as content discovery and distribution. Prior to this role, she was a Product Manager for Facebook’s Messenger web interfaces and before that, a Product Manager at IBM. Current favorite/most listened to podcasts are Techish and a lot of Crooked Media’s shows. Irena Lam, Irena is the Product Manager for the Podcast Creator Ecosystem at Facebook and focuses specifically on Creator Experience, Podcaster Value, and Content Inventory. Along with Podcasts, she also supports various Music products across Facebook and Instagram. Prior to her current role, she was at a technical interviewing startup called Karat and Microsoft before that. Current favorite podcasts are 99% Invisible and Reply All. Rob and I would like to thank the Facebook team for coming on the show to discuss Facebook plans for podcasting Donate to the show and Support this podcast. Send a Sticker Get a Sticker: Send us your show sticker and we will send you a New Media Show Sticker. Get on our sticker board for the show. New Media Productions 365 N Willowbrook Rd Suite: C Coldwater, Mi, 49036The post Facebook Podcasting Team #474 first appeared on New Media Show.

This week (December 17th, 2025) on episode #645 of The New Media Show with Rob Greenlee host is joined by longtime podcasting pioneer and returning guest co-host Cliff Ravenscraft, the Podcast Answer Man, for a wide-ranging and timely conversation about where podcasting has been and where it’s heading next. The episode opens with a reflection on the long-running industry debate around the definition of a podcast and why that question has resurfaced so often over the last few years. Rob and Cliff explore how audience behavior has quietly moved ahead of industry debates, shifting consumption toward a mix of audio, video, livestreams, and platforms like YouTube, often without waiting for permission or consensus. Cliff shares the full story behind his return to the Podcast Answer Man brand after stepping away years ago, including why he left, what he focused on during his time away, and what changes in the podcasting and creator landscape made this the right moment to come back. He reflects on two decades in podcasting, helping tens of thousands of creators launch shows, and why many creators today feel overwhelmed by conflicting advice around video, algorithms, and monetization. Rob introduces the concept of podcasting’s evolving eras, beginning with the often-forgotten “Zero Era” where audio and video podcasting coexisted early on, followed by the MeUndies era, the experimentation and acquisition boom, and the more recent identity-crisis phase defined by the question “What is a podcast?” Together, Rob and Cliff discuss why the industry may now be entering what’s being called the Liquid Content Era, where shows are no longer confined to a single format and content flows across feeds, platforms, and experiences. The conversation digs into the tension between creator intent and audience convenience, the role of RSS in a changing ecosystem, and the risks of letting algorithms dictate creative decisions. Cliff offers a counterbalance to the pressure many creators feel to be everywhere at once, emphasizing that audio-only podcasting can still succeed when aligned with clear goals, sustainable workflows, and meaningful audience relationships. The episode also explores production quality, evolving audio standards, video integration challenges, international podcast growth, and why podcasting remains a powerful global medium despite constant claims that it’s “over” or “dead.” This episode is both a reality check and a recalibration, encouraging creators to stop defending definitions, focus on serving audiences, and choose formats intentionally rather than reactively. Join the conversation in comments, and be part of the discussion about what podcasting really means now and what it can become next. Rob Greenlee Rob Greenlee Website https://RobGreenlee.com New Media Show for Audio and Video RSS feeds https://NewMediaShow.com Adore Podcast Network https://AdoreNetwork.com Adore Creator Community on Skool https://Skool.com/AdoreNetwork Podcast Hall of Fame https://PodcastHall.com https://YouTube.com/@OfficialPodcastHallofFame The Pro Creator Playbook with Rob Greenlee Audio podcast https://www.adorenetwork.com/show/pro-creator-playbook-audio/ Video show https://www.adorenetwork.com/show/pro-creator-playbook-video/ Spoken Life Show https://www.adorenetwork.com/show/spoken-life-show/ Spoken Human show on YouTube https://YouTube.com/@spokenhuman Rob Greenlee YouTube channel https://YouTube.com/@RobGreenlee Cliff Ravenscraft https://CliffRavenscraft.com https://PodcastAnswerMan.comThe post What’s a Podcast Era Is Over – Welcome Liquid Content Era #645 first appeared on New Media Show.

In the December 10th, 2025 Live episode of The New Media Show, host Rob Greenlee welcomes Mike Dell, VP at Blubrry Podcasting, as guest co-host for a grounded, practical conversation about what keeps a podcast growing long after the initial excitement fades. The episode opens with a sincere reflection on Todd’s passing and the lasting impact he had on the community, along with the intention to honor his legacy in the months ahead. From there, Rob and Mike move into the core topic: why many podcasts and live shows start strong, then stall. They unpack how a lack of clarity and consistency often shows up as drifting topics, uneven pacing, and episodes that feel improvised in a way that does not serve the listener. Their argument is simple: sustainable shows are built, not stumbled into. Structure does not mean sounding scripted or robotic. It means defining a format your audience can recognize, returning to it reliably, and creating a repeatable experience that keeps people coming back. They also talk about how modern media habits are reshaping expectations. With short form video and endless scroll everywhere, audiences decide quickly whether to stay. Rob and Mike stress the importance of a strong opening, clear positioning, and content that delivers on what the title promises. They discuss video as part of the current landscape, but keep the focus on fundamentals like audio quality, intentional production choices, and making platform decisions that do not compromise the listener experience. Mike pulls in lessons from his own shows, including what he has learned from hyperlocal and niche content, and how community relevance can drive engagement in ways that surprise creators. The conversation highlights practical ways to increase interaction, including live chat, polls, and Q and A segments, not as gimmicks, but as tools to build a real sense of participation and belonging. They also touch on workflow improvements, handling technical issues gracefully, simplifying video production, and using on screen titles and lower thirds so viewers can easily follow along. By the end, the episode becomes a clear playbook for leveling up: know what your show is trying to achieve, design a format that supports that goal, respect attention early, keep the quality bar consistent, and build community in a way that invites people in instead of pushing them away. Rob Greenlee Rob Greenlee Website https://RobGreenlee.com New Media Show for Audio and Video RSS feeds https://NewMediaShow.com Adore Podcast Network https://AdoreNetwork.com Adore Creator Community on Skool https://Skool.com/AdoreNetwork Podcast Hall of Fame https://PodcastHall.com https://YouTube.com/@OfficialPodcastHallofFame The Pro Creator Playbook with Rob Greenlee Audio podcast https://www.adorenetwork.com/show/pro-creator-playbook-audio/ Video show https://www.adorenetwork.com/show/pro-creator-playbook-video/ Spoken Life Show https://www.adorenetwork.com/show/spoken-life-show/ Spoken Human show on YouTube https://YouTube.com/@spokenhuman Rob Greenlee YouTube channel https://YouTube.com/@RobGreenlee Mike Dell Blubrry Podcasting https://blubrry.com https://MikeDell.com Audio Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 01:00 Reflecting on Podcasting Changes 01:25 The Importance of Podcast Structure 03:19 Balancing Planning and Spontaneity 04:58 Engaging the Audience 08:08 Navigating Algorithms and Goals 18:54 Hyperlocal and Niche Podcasting 34:26 Live Shows and Audience Interaction 42:34 Improving Podcasting Skills 43:03 Maintaining Authenticity in Production 43:32 Handling Technical Glitches 44:33 Simplifying Video Production 44:46 Using Streaming Platforms Effectively 48:52 Importance of Lower Thirds and Titles 50:12 Editing and Post-Production Tips 56:59 Building a Community 01:01:02 Engaging with Your Audience 01:07:51 Q&A Session 01:12:46 Final Thoughts and AnnouncementsThe post Making a Pro Level Live or Recorded Show – New Media Show #644 first appeared on New Media Show.

In this episode, we relaunch the New Media Show #643 with special guest Rob Walsh, VP of Libsyn. After a difficult last few months following the passing of longtime friend and co-host Todd Cochrane, The New Media Show officially returns with a fresh format and a familiar voice. In this reboot episode, we again talk candidly about the process of bringing the show back, honoring Todd’s legacy, and where the podcasting industry is really headed in 2025 and beyond. Rob Greenlee and Rob Walch dig into the renewed 2026 Podcast Hall of Fame, why hosting it at Podfest Expo matters, and how this year’s inductee class reflects both the early pioneers and today’s global voices. They unpack what advertisers are actually buying right now, why mid sized loyal shows often outperform the “big names,” and how the shift from demographic targeting to psychographic and genre based buying is changing deals for creators at every level. The conversation also explores the rise of private communities and paid video ecosystems on platforms like Substack and Uscreen, plus the relaunch of NewMediaShow.com with a fully restored archive of nearly 600 past episodes. From YouTube and Spotify’s “top podcast” charts to Apple’s long running audio ecosystem, the two Robs wrestle with a core question: what truly counts as a podcast in an era where many YouTube only shows get labeled as such. They contrast audio first and video first strategies, debate download versus HLS streaming, and talk through how measurement, attribution, and IAB revenue reports reveal a still under valued ad market relative to radio and other media. Finally, they tackle the current wave of AI generated ads and shows, including legal requirements around disclosure and why so much AI content still feels soulless, even as tools get faster and more powerful. Whether you are an indie creator, a network executive, or someone who has followed The New Media Show for years, this reboot episode sets the tone for a new chapter that stays true to the show’s roots while leaning hard into the realities of today’s business of podcasting. Rob Greenlee Rob Greenlee website https://RobGreenlee.com New Media Show for Audio and Video RSS feeds https://NewMediaShow.com Adore Creator Network and shows hub https://AdoreNetwork.com Adore Creator Community on Skool https://Skool.com/AdoreNetwork Podcast Hall of Fame https://PodcastHall.com https://YouTube.com/@OfficialPodcastHallofFame The Pro Creator Playbook with Rob Greenlee Audio podcast https://www.adorenetwork.com/show/pro-creator-playbook-audio/ Video show https://www.adorenetwork.com/show/pro-creator-playbook-video/ Spoken Life Show https://www.adorenetwork.com/show/spoken-life-show/ Spoken Human show on YouTube https://YouTube.com/@spokenhuman Rob Greenlee YouTube channel https://YouTube.com/@RobGreenlee Rob Walch Libsyn podcast hosting and network https://libsyn.com Podcast411 with Rob Walch https://podcast411.com  The post Rebooting the Show: Video, AI and Revenue #643 first appeared on New Media Show.

On this special New Media Show tribute episode, we honor the life and legacy of Todd Cochrane, podcasting pioneer, podcast hall of famer, founder of Blubrry and RawVoice, host of Geek News Central podcast, author of one of the first podcasting books, and co-host on The New Media Show for 13 years. Todd’s influence on podcasting was profound: from launching one of the earliest shows in 2004, to creating the Podcast Awards, to championing open RSS and independent podcasters. His voice, conviction, and generosity shaped the medium and inspired countless creators. Joining host Rob Greenlee Podcast Hall of Famer are Adam Curry is also a Podcast Hall of Famer, Mike Dell, VP at Blubrry, and Rob Walch, VP at Libsyn who is also a Podcast Hall of Famer as we reflect on Todd’s extraordinary journey and life, from Navy service to podcasting leader, and discuss his impact on the industry, his unwavering advocacy for creators, and the lessons he leaves for the future of podcasting.The post Remembering Todd Cochrane Podcast Hall of Famer and Blubrry CEO first appeared on New Media Show.

The episode titled “Bryan Barletta of Podcast Movement: What’s Next for the Show?” features hosts Todd Cochrane and Rob Greenlee, who welcome guest Bryan Barletta. The episode begins with Todd introducing Bryan and discussing the recent happenings at Podcast Movement following the event. Bryan expresses gratitude for Todd and Rob’s previous discussions about Podcast Movement and mentions the importance of critical feedback. Todd brings up some challenges regarding the number of attendees and logistical details from the recent Podcast Movement event, sharing metrics he tracked personally. Bryan explains that he was less involved in that specific event but acknowledges the need for feedback and improvement based on attendees’ experiences. Bryan discusses his recent transition after the acquisition of SoundProfitable and how it positions him to make impactful changes in the industry. He emphasizes the need to create value and excitement around the event, with a particular focus on enhancing attendance and engagement. They discuss how the geographical location of upcoming events, especially in New York, should draw more attendees compared to previous events in San Diego. Todd highlights the differences in crowd behavior at events compared to others, like Podfest and events in London. Bryan responds that the changes since COVID and the dynamics of each convention make it essential to evaluate attendee needs carefully. The conversation shifts to how better to engage creators and business representatives in the podcasting industry. Bryan acknowledges the diversity within the creator community and highlights the challenges of merging business and creator-centric content at events. Rob raises concerns about maintaining a balance between industry-focused events and offerings for creators. They note the popularity of video as a growing trend in podcasting and the importance of presenting audio content in appealing ways. Todd urges that audio should remain a cherished medium and not be overshadowed by video initiatives. As the episode progresses, Bryan shares his views on the potential of Podcast Movement to support creators more robustly and the need to differentiate from competing platforms like YouTube and Spotify. He emphasizes the importance of fostering audio-centric content creation in response to industry changes. Toward the end of the discussion, Bryan shares that announcements will be made around October, hinting at upcoming adjustments to the event structure and approach to programming. He emphasizes the goal of making it easier for attendees to engage with the event and expresses excitement about future initiatives. Todd and Rob wrap up the episode by reflecting on Bryan’s insights, acknowledging questions that remain, and the evolving landscape of podcasting events. They point out the potential for regional events and reiterate the need for better communication with the creator community. The episode concludes with Todd giving his contact details and inviting listeners to follow up for future discussions.The post Bryan Barletta of Podcast Movement: What’s Next for the Show? #642 first appeared on New Media Show.

In this episode titled “Podcast Movement Recap and Insights,” hosts Todd Cochrane and Rob Greenlee discuss their experiences and observations from the recent Podcast Movement conference held in Dallas. Todd has also posted a piece on Linkedin that has garnered nearly 8000 views. Todd kicks off the conversation by expressing gratitude for the listeners. Rob brings up the theme “show me the money,” which reflects a mixture of seriousness and humor regarding the event. Todd shares his experience of arriving on a Sunday, noting that he could have saved on hotel costs by arriving later, given the event’s setup schedule. Both hosts discuss the presence of vendors at the conference, with Todd commenting on the impressive booth from Libsyn compared to other vendors, resulting in a total of about twenty vendors. Rob adds context for those unfamiliar with Podcast Movement, describing it as historically significant and the largest podcasting conference, although he notes that it may no longer hold that title. They express concerns over attendance numbers, suggesting that the conference may be losing its prominence compared to other events, such as Podfest. As they delve deeper, Todd notes that many attendees seemed to be local and not diverse enough geographically in terms of representation. They discuss the financial aspects of attending the event, including ticket costs and discounts provided for local attendees. Todd expresses relief that the discounted tickets helped increase attendance. The conversation shifts to a significant announcement made during the conference regarding Podcast Movement’s acquisition of Sounds Profitable. They discuss the implications of this acquisition and the confusion surrounding the language used to describe the transaction, which is defined as both an acquisition and a merger. Todd shares his initial reactions and interactions with key players from Sounds Profitable, expressing hope for future creator engagement. Rob and Todd then reflect on the event’s atmosphere and traffic. While they experienced slow periods, Todd is satisfied with the overall attendance, noting that they ultimately scanned around 100 badges. They discuss the mix of people they interacted with, some looking to shift their hosting platforms, while others were starting. The hosts discuss potential issues affecting the podcasting space, including stagnation in creator numbers and retention concerns. Critical discussions within the industry arise, reflecting on whether podcasting can maintain its independence while embracing mainstream media and the expectations of profitability. They also discuss practical considerations for future events, including potential changes in scheduling and structure to appeal to both business professionals and creators. Rob suggests the need for one-day passes and more targeted marketing to effectively engage local audiences. Todd expresses his hope for improvements, highlighting the possibility of creating a space for a truly educational experience that is free from self-promotion. They both emphasize the importance of creating a balanced program that prioritizes genuine teaching and sharing knowledge rather than merely promoting products or platforms. By the end of the episode, Todd shares some insights regarding industry trends, drawing attention to the need for widespread understanding of Open RSS and its importance in sustaining the podcasting ecosystem. They conclude with acknowledgments, inviting their audience to send feedback and highlighting key people in the podcasting community, while looking forward to future developments and discussions. The episode wraps up with both hosts thanking their listeners and affirming their return for the next episode.The post Podcast Movement Recap and Insights #641 first appeared on New Media Show.

In this episode titled “Podcasting’s Future Is Choice”, hosts Todd Cochrane and Rob Greenlee discuss various aspects of the podcasting industry, particularly surrounding the upcoming Podcast Movement event. The episode begins with Todd and Rob greeting each other and discussing their plans to attend the Podcast Movement conference. They discuss the costs associated with attending the event and express hope that it will attract a good turnout. Todd mentions the high price of coffee at the venue, leading to a discussion about the costs of refreshments at such events. They then transition to a new topic, discussing a recent article by Tom Webster that highlights a survey revealing the public still predominantly expects podcasts to be audio-based. The hosts analyze and debate the implications of the data, discussing how perceptions may be shifting regarding the definitions of podcasts as audiences encounter more video content. Rob comments on the current state of the podcasting industry, describing it as “cloudy” due to the evolving relationship between audio and video formats. He reflects on how podcasting has become increasingly commercialized over time, similar to mainstream media, with a growing focus on monetization and advertising. As the conversation progresses, Todd and Rob delve into a podcast study indicating that most listeners dedicate only three hours a week to podcasts, questioning the implications of such limited consumption. They also discuss the growth in podcast advertising revenue, which has reportedly risen, but express skepticism about the figures presented, particularly in light of layoffs within the industry. Todd mentions Spotify’s plan to raise subscription costs for users outside the U.S. and discusses other industry trends, such as the dual nature of recent podcasting content. Rob notes that some networks are canceling podcasts labeled as risky because of their unfiltered content. The hosts shift to a discussion about the upcoming Podcast Movement, focusing on the various sessions and their related topics, with a notable emphasis on video in podcasting. They also touch on the challenges of securing accommodations at the event. Towards the closing of the episode, Todd and Rob recount their personal travel experiences and provide insights into Internet speeds available in their respective areas, reflecting on the necessary infrastructure for modern podcasting. In conclusion, they agree to return with insights and updates from Podcast Movement in a future episode, signing off with their contact information.The post Podcasting’s Future Is a Choice first appeared on New Media Show.

In the latest episode of the New Media Show, hosted by Todd Cochrane and Rob Greenlee, the discussion begins with a light greeting and banter about upcoming events, particularly Todd’s anticipated return to the United States and the podcast movement. They briefly touch on the advertising campaigns Todd has been involved with on PodNews and his challenges with launching GuestMatch.pro, a new platform aimed at connecting podcasters with guests. As the conversation progresses, they delve into Netflix’s shifting focus towards video content and its impact on traditional media. Todd shares his skepticism about the effectiveness of simple audio being placed on video platforms. At the same time, Rob discusses the implications of this shift, noting how it might reshape the dynamics of podcast talent. The hosts then spotlight Overcast’s testing of built-in transcript support, congratulating founder Marco for joining Apple Podcast and Pocket Cast in incorporating transcripts. They hope that Overcast will adopt the transcript tag from RSS feeds, thereby increasing accessibility to podcasts. The episode transitions to a discussion about Spotify, covering its challenges with ad revenue despite overall profit increases. Rob notes the industry’s pivot towards subscription models and raises questions about Spotify’s advertising future. The conversation shifts towards programmatic ads and how new players in the space, like rss.com, are establishing their presence with low payout thresholds. Todd and Rob discuss the implications of advertising and the financial dynamics of big tech companies managing content platforms. They also highlight a recent list from Time magazine that featured the 100 best podcasts, expressing disappointment over the omission of notable shows such as “Pod Save America” and “The Joe Rogan Experience.” The hosts speculate on the potential political bias in the selections. Further conversations explore the estimated boom in the podcast market projected to reach $40 billion by 2025; however, they debate whether this is realistic given the nature of the industry. The discussion then navigates through the broader podcast landscape, tackling the nuances in monetization paths for creators and the increasing reliance on private platforms like Patreon and Substack. Todd and Rob reflect on the evolution of audience engagement, particularly with women-led podcasts establishing a significant presence compared to traditional solo-hosted shows, which men often dominate. They discuss the importance of forming direct relationships between creators and their audience, encouraging creators to harness tools for community building and revenue generation outside traditional platforms. As the episode nears its conclusion, they share personal anecdotes related to travel and technology, with Todd recounting his experiences with AI capabilities in optimizing tasks, such as finding flight deals. Overall, the episode offers a comprehensive update on the podcasting industry, examining shifts in media consumption, the economic landscape, and providing guidance for creators navigating these changes. The hosts conclude the show with a reminder about their respective social media handles and encourage audience engagement before wrapping up.The post Overcast quietly tests built-in transcripts! first appeared on New Media Show.

In this episode of “The New Media Show,” hosts Todd Cochrane and Rob Greenlee discuss various aspects of independent podcasting, referencing the financial success of the Joe Budden Network, which reportedly makes over a million dollars a month on Patreon plus an equal amount in advertising revenue. Todd expresses his views on what constitutes an independent podcast, questioning whether contracts with platforms like Spotify affect that classification. Rob adds that the definition of independence in podcasting is convoluted, as many shows labeled as independent still utilize a team for production. The conversation highlights that Joe Budden once had a contract with Spotify but is now considered independent, having left due to insufficient financial support. Todd believes that many independent podcasters can sustain themselves financially through strategic planning and high-quality content, even with a small team. Furthermore, they discuss monetization strategies, including flexible donation models on platforms such as Patreon & Paypal. Rob shares that he views independent podcasts as those that control their content rights and haven’t given them over to a larger platform. Both hosts agree on the changing landscape, where even well-known podcasters can still consider themselves independent despite having support teams. As the dialogue progresses, they discuss NPR’s funding cuts and the implications of these changes on independent content creation, highlighting the evolution of podcasting since its inception around twenty years ago. They reflect on how their audience demographics have evolved alongside them, with the younger audience now more prevalent than when they first started. The latter part of the episode transitions into a discussion about industry events, with a particular focus on the upcoming Podcast Movement conference. Todd shares insights on the scale and focus of the event, noting a shift towards more corporate sponsors and fewer independent participants. They highlight the need for unified metrics in podcasting to simplify advertising buy decisions, citing confusion among ad buyers. As the conversation draws to a close, Todd and Rob cover the emerging trend of AI-generated voiceovers for ads, discussing potential ethical concerns and implications for audience trust in advertisements. They ultimately invite listeners to share their thoughts and feedback regarding the show and the topics discussed. The episode concludes with both hosts sharing their contact information and encouraging audience engagement, highlighting the continued evolution and challenges within the podcasting landscape.The post Independent Podcasts Build Massive Annual Revenue first appeared on New Media Show.

In this episode titled “Adam Curry Returns and Spotify’s Seven Million Shows,” hosts Todd Cochrane and Rob Greenlee welcome listeners to the new media show. Rob expresses his excitement about discussing various topics, particularly noting the significant milestone of seven million podcasts, mainly attributed to Spotify (wink)(wink). As they delve into the numbers, Todd and Rob comment on how many new podcast creators fail to enable RSS feeds at Spotify, which limits their reach to platforms like Apple Podcasts. Todd notes that Spotify’s exclusive setup has led to many underwhelming shows, which the Podcast Index has responded to by halting the listing of new shows due to a high failure rate. Rob points out the false perception of success that arises from inflated numbers while highlighting the challenges new creators face in achieving real engagement. Todd emphasizes that many shows are simply tests with little commitment behind them. They discuss the implications of free trials offered by hosting services, revealing frustrations with the influx of low-quality or “scammer” shows that clutter platforms. The conversation shifts to the current climate in podcasting, where the number of new shows has decreased compared to previous years. Rob mentions that while many creators are searching for side hustles, they often have unrealistic expectations regarding making money through podcasting, which requires more effort than they anticipate. Todd discusses the confusion many users have regarding the relationship between hosting platforms and listening services, citing that many believe Blueberry is a listening platform, which it is not. They also address Spotify’s reluctance to help creators connect with Apple Podcasts. Todd shares his experiences with users who mistakenly reach out to Blueberry for help with Spotify-related issues. As they continue, Todd reveals internal data suggesting that many podcasts are inactive or have “dead” RSS feeds, while illustrating Apple’s unknown criteria for keeping their catalog updated compared to other platforms. Todd speaks about a rare rejection moment from Apple regarding a show based on audio quality, which Todd describes as surprising. The episode then takes a turn towards upcoming events in the podcasting space, with mentions of Adam Curry’s participation in Podcast Movement. Todd sadly recalls past sessions that have drawn sparse attendance, emphasizing the need for promotion to attract audiences to such events. They briefly discuss YouTube’s efforts to crack down on low-quality content generated by AI, contrasting it with the podcasting landscape, and share concerns about the rising dominance of AI in content creation. Todd shares his methods for utilizing AI tools to assist in content preparation, while maintaining that human oversight is crucial. Towards the conclusion, the hosts touch upon trends in audience creation and how individuals are increasingly perceiving themselves as creators amid a deluge of content. They also address current scams and phishing attempts, urging listeners to be vigilant in protecting their online presence and assets. Finally, Todd expresses his excitement about the potential new fiber internet service coming to his area, and they share amusing anecdotes about scams encountered online. Rob mentions a recent scam involving fake podcast opportunities, urging caution in distinguishing legitimate offers from fraudulent ones. The episode wraps up with both hosts thanking their audience, sharing their social media handles, and teasing future topics before signing off.The post Adam Curry Returns and Spotify’s Seven Million Shows – LOL first appeared on New Media Show.

In this episode of “The New Media Show,” hosted by Todd Cochrane and Rob Greenlee, the discussion centers on various topics in the podcasting space, with a particular focus on the emerging interest in video podcasting publishing formats. The episode starts with Todd welcoming listeners and mentioning that Rob has joined him for the episode. They begin by discussing the ongoing evolution in podcasting and how the interest in video podcasts via open RSS feeds is growing. Rob notes that such interest might seem new, but has been simmering for some time. Todd brings up a behind-the-scenes conversation from a Slack channel regarding HLS (HTTP Live Streaming) and how it is being discussed among industry peers. He mentions his conversations with Apple during a recent podcast event in London, reflecting on how he may have been one of the few advocating for the issues at hand. As they continue, they touch on the technical challenges surrounding hosting video podcasts, particularly the costs associated with bandwidth and the potential impact of monetization if platforms like Apple start caching video content. Rob expresses that the architecture for programmatic advertising in video podcasts is there but hasn’t been fully implemented. The hosts reflect on whether they’ve received feedback from their audience regarding the video quality of past shows and review the general appetite for audio versus video content in the industry. They discuss how audience feedback on video quality has been minimal over the years. Todd shares a recent observation about video podcasts, highlighting the importance of streaming technology versus traditional MP4 formats and emphasizing the need for seamless switching between audio and video. They both agree on the necessity of making video content discoverable, particularly by platforms like Apple. The conversation shifts towards advertising trends in the podcasting industry. Todd notes concerns over a softening podcast advertising market and declining CPMs, while Rob suggests that this might influence future advertising strategies. They mention how engagement could be affected by shifts from audio to video formats and the importance of retaining a user-friendly experience in the podcasting landscape. Todd shares insights from PodTrak regarding a decline in podcast rankings and engagement, indicating that advertisers must reevaluate their strategies in light of shifting audience behaviors. The hosts consider how competition from platforms like Spotify and YouTube may drive innovation in video podcasting and how the industry might adapt accordingly. In discussing the aesthetics of podcasting setups, Todd mentions watching bourbon review channels on YouTube and how they reflect a shift towards more authentic settings. They deliberate on the evolving visual appeal in podcasting, suggesting that traditional studio setups may be on the decline in favor of more natural environments. Returning to technical and content-related issues, they both express concern about the implications of AI-generated content in the podcasting space, debating the ethics and how misinformation could be flagged in audio content. Todd proposes a need for a system to delineate levels of AI involvement in content creation. As the episode wraps up, Todd and Rob invite listeners to engage with them by sharing feedback on topics or insights they might wish to discuss about the podcasting industry, emphasizing their openness to candid discussions on advertising trends. Both hosts conclude by encouraging their audience to subscribe to the podcast, highlighting its availability on various platforms and emphasizing the ongoing relevance of audio and video content creation within podcasting. They sign off, looking forward to reconnecting in the next episode.The post Additional Video Podcast Format via RSS first appeared on New Media Show.

In this episode of “The New Media Show,” hosts Todd Cochrane and Rob Greenlee discuss various developments in the podcasting industry, including the surge of live festivals, the opening of awards voting, and Apple’s 20th anniversary of supporting podcasts. The episode begins with Todd and Rob checking in with each other, with Todd sharing updates about his studio and the issues he’s experiencing with his podcasting gear. They quickly dive into topics set for discussion, mentioning the podcast awards and podcast festivals. Todd highlights the recent discussions surrounding Apple Podcasts and its 20-year support, reflecting on the nostalgia and excitement, but also expressing a desire for Apple to promote shows that have been around for that long. Rob agrees, pointing out that newer audiences may not be interested in the legacy shows. They also discuss the growth of live podcasting events, referencing past successes and the potential for more live events, especially in major cities like New York. As they delve deeper, they express concern about the future of podcast conferences in the U.S. Todd mentions a decline in interest in these events, contrasting it with the vibrant atmosphere at previous gatherings. They reflect on their past experiences at successful live events, speculating that the popularity of podcasting could lead to a resurgence in live, fan-focused events. The conversation shifts to the upcoming Podcast Movement conference in Dallas, where both hosts will be attending. Todd voices concerns about attendance and the changing nature of these events, suggesting a strategic shift where they will focus more on promoting their new product. The hosts then discuss the upcoming People’s Choice Podcast Awards, noting slightly lower registration numbers this year but emphasizing the significance of being included on the slate. They encourage podcasters to register and participate, comparing the awards to the increasing number of different award ceremonies emerging in the industry. The latter part of the episode centers on the debate about video podcasting versus audio. There is a discussion about the merits and challenges of video podcasts, including resource demands, audience engagement, and technical aspects like HLS (HTTP Live Streaming). They touch on HLS technology and the current reluctance of various hosting platforms to adopt it, noting that while video has advantages, audio still holds significant value. Finally, they conclude with a brief note about Audacy partnering with iHeartRadio to expand its podcast reach, before reiterating the mixed feelings surrounding the current state of the podcasting industry and the need to attract new creators. They emphasize the importance of delivering viable audio content, especially for new podcasters, encouraging a continued focus on growth and sustainability within the medium. The hosts close the episode, thanking their audience and mentioning their respective contact information, inviting listeners to engage with them further.The post Podcasting Pulse: Live Festivals Surge, Awards Voting Opens & Apple Turns 20 first appeared on New Media Show.

In the podcast episode titled “Expanding Podcast Image Standards for a Better Cross-App Experience,” host Todd Cochrane starts by welcoming listeners to the show. He mentions that Rob Greenlee is absent due to personal business but will return next week. Todd expresses his gratitude to both live listeners and those tuning in later. Todd discusses ongoing developments within the podcasting space, particularly surrounding Podcasting 2.0, which aims to expand image specifications for podcasters. He explains the recent Apple announcement regarding new image specs for podcast art, emphasizing the need for diversification across apps and websites, as not all have the exact requirements. Todd points out that the traditional 1400×1400 pixel image format is insufficient for some platforms, suggesting that podcasters should provide specific image sizes for different apps to improve the user experience. He provides an example of how developers and creators could include tags in their RSS feeds that specify the purpose and specific sizes for images, citing the example of a banner image that Overcast might require. Todd believes that offering a variety of image sizes will enhance the experience for listeners and facilitate better representation across different platforms. Todd also notes the potential benefits of creating episode art using artificial intelligence (AI) and discusses how services like Blubrry are already employing this technology to assist podcasters in generating artwork. He views the expansion of image standards as an opportunity for improving user engagement and the overall quality of the podcast experience. Additionally, Todd shares other industry news, such as podcasting overtaking radio in Germany and significant changes in leadership at Acast. He addresses the competitive landscape of on-demand streaming, expressing curiosity about how Spotify’s video podcasting initiatives could impact monetization models, as concerns regarding CPMs and revenue sharing arise. Towards the end of the episode, Todd mentions new advancements from services like Auphonic for audio processing, highlights the growth in listener demographics, and reflects on the ongoing evolution in the podcasting landscape. He concludes by encouraging his audience to engage with the show through support and boosts, thanking contributors for their involvement while looking forward to Rob’s return in the following episode. Thank you to Podnews for the source of most of the news.The post Expanding Podcast Image Standards for a Better Cross-App Experience first appeared on New Media Show.

In this episode of “The New Media Show,” hosted by Todd Cochrane and Rob Greenleee, the discussion begins with light banter as Todd welcomes Rob and mentions inclement weather affecting his internet connection. Todd shares his recent experience optimizing his streaming setup. He discusses recent improvements in Blubrry’s AI image generation capabilities as seen in today’s show art. The hosts then dive into the episode’s main topic: “YouTube Doubles Down on Podcasts.” Rob introduces the idea that YouTube is changing the podcast landscape, with a focus on comments made by YouTube CEO Neil Mohan, who emphasized that viewers want to watch content rather than just listen to it. Todd notes audience feedback indicating that not all viewers agree, suggesting a divergence in listener preferences. Rob elaborates on an upcoming feature that will enable YouTube to automatically generate translated audio tracks for different languages, thereby broadening content accessibility. The discussion explores the implications of this feature for content creators and the listener’s experience. Next, Todd expresses his irritation with Spotify’s new transcript feature, highlighting how it excludes transcripts from creators not on Spotify. Both hosts are critical of Spotify’s lack of support for all transcripts and share their frustrations over platform limitations within the podcasting industry. They discuss the podcasting scene in Brazil as it relates to Radio, noting its slow adoption rate compared to the U.S. Todd ponders how many U.S. radio stations incorporate podcast content and how that compares internationally, particularly with Australia and the BBC. The conversation shifts to SiriusXM’s podcasting initiatives, highlighting the difference between direct ownership and licensing agreements with content creators and the challenges in current podcasting partnerships. Todd expresses curiosity about SiriusXM’s actual podcast ownership numbers and the dynamics at play. Rob and Todd then delve into recent news from a podcast growth firm suggesting that relying solely on download counts can be misleading. They debate the meaning of download versus consumption metrics and question the accuracy of alternative analytical dashboards proposed by the firm. Toward the end of the episode, Todd recalls the bad experience he had with domain ownership disputes, mentioning his former ownership of CNNpodcast dot com and its current state. They also briefly discuss the failed Apollo Fiction podcast app and the challenges that genre-specific podcast apps face in a crowded market. In the closing segment, Todd highlights the slow uptake of new episodes by platforms like Apple Podcasts, compared to faster services like Pocket Casts, emphasizing listener frustrations when episodes are not published promptly. Finally, Rob shares his contact information for listeners to reach out, while Todd expresses concern and support for listeners in Israel amidst current unrest, and wraps up the episode, noting his upcoming solo show due to Rob’s absence in the following week. They thank the audience for subscribing and encourage feedback.The post YouTube Doubles Down on Podcasts first appeared on New Media Show.

In this episode of “The New Media Show,” hosts Todd Cochrane and Rob Greenlee discuss the evolving landscape of podcasting, with a focus on the interplay between audio and video content, especially addressing the question of whether YouTube is dominating the podcasting space. The episode opens with Todd welcoming Rob back from a trip to Seattle. They briefly mention that there were applications for Rob’s job while he was away. They delve into the theme of the episode, highlighting the mixed perceptions around video and audio content in podcasting. Todd refers to an article by Paul Riismandel, stating that it presents a balanced view on how YouTube does not overshadow audio podcasting, which he insists remains strong. Rob echoes this, noting that amidst the hype surrounding video, audio podcasting remains a significant player and has its own audience. The discussion touches on Apple Podcasts and new features they announced at WWDC, which they feel did not fully address the needs of podcasters. Rob adds that there is a need to understand audience expectations and how new creators are feeling overwhelmed by the emphasis on video, even as they believe in the enduring value of audio content. As they explore the challenges faced by new creators, Todd acknowledges that many feel disenfranchised and are unsure about integrating video into their workflows. They discuss the complexities of personal branding and the challenges of building an audience in an environment that seems to favor larger shows over smaller ones. Todd emphasizes that creators should focus on building their audio content and finding their voice without being distracted by the demands of video. He believes that great content is vital to growth, even though many creators are concerned about their ability to monetize early on. Rob highlights that the primary focus for most podcasters remains growth at this stage, rather than monetization. They also examine the troubling trend of new podcasters seeking to transition to video for quick success, which complicates their journeys in podcasting. Discussion returns to the significant contributions that existing audio creators are making while struggling with the pressures of social media and audience engagement. Todd and Rob emphasize the importance of hard work in growing a podcast, as the landscape has not become simpler over the years. They discuss how AI tools can help streamline specific processes, but these solutions also come with their challenges. Towards the end of the episode, they touch on the Podcast Hall of Fame and its plans, including the inclusion of international nominations. Rob shares thoughts about increasing nominations and expanding the voting base for the Hall of Fame, emphasizing transparency in the nomination process. In conclusion, both hosts reaffirm the enduring viability of audio podcasting and encourage new creators to start with audio first, advising them to build their unique brand and content strategy. The episode wraps up as they share their social media handles and express enthusiasm for the next show, marking the end of a lively discussion on the current state and future of podcasting.The post YouTube isn’t Podcasting King first appeared on New Media Show.

In this episode titled “Podcasting’s Future: Are We Losing Sight of Creators?” Todd Cochrane hosts the New Media Show solo, as Rob is not present. Todd acknowledges Rob’s potential transition away from the show and reflects on their long history together in podcasting, indicating a willingness for change. Todd discusses the current landscape of podcasting, particularly regarding the future direction of the medium amidst rising discussions about video and AI. He raises concerns that the industry might be neglecting crucial issues that affect both new and experienced creators. The episode explores topics such as the safeguarding of open RSS standards, the realities of innovation in the industry, and the importance of ensuring that the needs of podcasters, particularly content creators, are being met. As the episode progresses, Todd engages in technical discussions about HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) and shares insights from recent conversations surrounding the Pod Standards Project and its possible implications for podcasting’s open ecosystem. He emphasizes that the industry must advocate for audio creators and strike a balance between innovations and preserving the openness that defines podcasting. Through a series of listener comments, Todd addresses feedback on the show’s format, including discussions about the balance between audio and video content, as well as the perceived push for video content. He argues that audio remains a powerful medium and expresses a commitment to supporting podcasters’ independence and open RSS standards. The episode concludes with Todd inviting listeners to provide feedback on the show and consider what creators truly need in this evolving landscape. He expresses a goal to continue advocating for podcasters and assures the audience that he will strive to maintain a focus on supporting creators, not just monetization. Todd concludes by encouraging audience engagement, stating that he will return for the next episode, regardless of the changes ahead.The post Podcasting’s Future: Are We Losing Sight of Creators? first appeared on New Media Show.

In the episode titled “New Media Show – Is this the End,” hosts Todd Cochrane and Rob Greenlee discuss the state of the podcasting industry, particularly in light of recent changes and trends. Todd opens the conversation with a metaphor about everything being “on fire” in the podcasting space, emphasizing a sense of urgency and concern surrounding the future of audio content creation. Rob acknowledges the anxiety in the medium and points out that change often leads to such feelings. Todd shares insights from his recent experience at the podcast show in London, where he noted a significant presence from Apple and discussions about the industry’s growth trajectory. He expresses that while concerns exist, audio podcasting still has a large audience and continues to grow globally despite the hype surrounding video content. The hosts discuss the perceptions that new creators feel pressured to produce video content, sharing anecdotal evidence that many are hesitant to embrace video due to privacy concerns or a lack of resources. Todd mentions that while video production can be costly, audio remains an accessible entry point for many creators. A significant theme of their conversation is the potential danger to the podcasting landscape if newer creators are discouraged from starting due to the overwhelming emphasis on video content. Todd stresses the importance of recognizing that audio podcasting is not going away and advocates for more support and encouragement for those who wish to start with audio. Rob adds to the discussion by stating that as podcasting becomes more professionalized, a greater number of creators gravitate towards larger shows, potentially sidelining independent podcasters. He agrees that nurturing new creators is essential for the longevity of the medium. Throughout the episode, both hosts reflect on the challenges the industry faces, including marketing hurdles for new creators and the slow pace of innovation from podcast platforms. They voice their concerns about the lack of new entrants into the space, which could lead to a narrowing of content variety and a decline in overall podcast engagement. As the conversation progresses, Todd and Rob acknowledge the media’s tendency to focus on negative narratives, suggesting there is a need for cheerleaders for audio podcasting to highlight its ongoing relevance and value. They lament the lack of trust in podcasting metrics and express frustration over how the podcasting space may be perceived as declining or “dying,” when, in reality, audio podcasting still has viability. In the latter part of the episode, they contemplate the future of the New Media Show itself, weighing whether it should continue, pivot, or evolve given the changing landscape. They invite audience feedback to determine the show’s direction and emphasize the critical importance of ensuring that new creators feel empowered to enter the space without being deterred by the increasing focus on video. The discussion wraps up with reflections on AI’s impact on media and the evolving dynamics of content creation, reaffirming their commitment to protecting the integrity of audio podcasting while remaining open to innovation and change within the medium. The episode concludes with a call for audience engagement to share thoughts on the future of the show and podcasting at large.The post New Media Show – Is this the End? first appeared on New Media Show.