The Jag Show: Podcast Tips, Tricks, and Best Practices

Welcome in, I'm Jon Gay. As you hear in my intro, I'm a radio guy turned podcaster. When in radio, I rolled eyes at those "bitter old radio guys" who said "back in my day." This is not me being bitter about being out of radio. Professionally, I'm really happy. But what upsets me is what's happened to an industry that I loved. Radio has been around for over 100 years, and traditionally, rumors of its demise have been greatly exaggerated. But there's been a perfect storm of threats to music radio over the last 25 years. Music and personality have been music radio's two unique selling points, and now it has neither.Today, I'll tell you how we got here - through corporate consolidation, voice tracking, and an overreaction to a new rating system. I'll also tell you how the two biggest radio owners in the country are running away from that very word, "radio." First it was iHeart, now it's Entercom, with their rebrand to "Audacy" and abandoning of all things radio dot com.Finally, I explain what could still save radio. Its a longshot. But I'm saying there's a chance.Connect with JAG online: https://jagindetroit.com/On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JAGinDetroit/Twitter: https://twitter.com/JAGinDetroitInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jagindetroit/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jongay18/ Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The number of total podcasts online has now hit the 2 million mark - after just passing ONE million last year. Only a third have put out content in the last 90 days. Wanna stand out? Good audio, good content, get to the point.Nielsen says podcast audiences are getting diverse and there could be some great advertising opportunities in the space: https://www.nielsen.com/us/en/insights/report/2021/podcasting-today/BetterHelp still #1 at $4.3 million spent on podcasts in February.That's good because another study says people aren't ready to pay for podcasts - so revenue would have to come from advertisers: https://variety.com/vip/most-podcast-listeners-still-lukewarm-on-paying-for-podcasts-data-suggests-1234934767/New group measures how polarizing podcasts are. Just because you CAN say it doesn't mean you SHOULD! :) https://variety.com/2021/tv/news/podcasting-advertising-media-roundtable-1234932495/Spotify tweaking its interface to help you find podcasts based on previous listening: https://podcastbusinessjournal.com/spotify-just-made-your-podcast-life-easierCaptions in Podcasts on Desktop Chrome Browser: https://www.theverge.com/2021/3/17/22337074/chrome-real-time-live-captions-audio-accessibility(via Podcast Business Journal) Does being a podcaster help your chances of getting a job? Ginni Sarawati writes in Vault: https://www.vault.com/blogs/workplace-issues/how-podcasting-boosts-your-chances-of-getting-hiredHighlights and Increases your communications skillsHelps build your personal brandShowcases your expertiseExpands your technical skillsSignal Hill Insights has looked at Clubhouse, finding that its users are mainly men 35 and under (article via PodNews): https://signalhillinsights.com/whos-in-the-clubhouse/?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2021-03-25As always, if I can help you create, or improve your existing podcast. Find me online:https://jagindetroit.com/Or email me: [email protected] Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It's no secret that where you record your podcast is almost as important as how you record it. Generally speaking, you want to avoid rooms with high ceilings and hard, flat, "echo-ey" surfaces. It's why a living room, bedroom, closet, or even your car are much better places than say, a kitchen or a bathroom.But mindset is also important too. I recorded last week's pod in my office, because I was also doing video and the lighting was better. But when I went back and watched the video, my energy was down. I was in an "office" type of mindset - the same room I take conference calls in. And oh by the way, my wife is on a lot of conference calls for her job a few rooms away. So this week, I'm back in my studio, with sound padding on the walls, where I can project and have a little more energy. And hopefully the lighting is better thanks to this Logitech Brio webcam and ring light. OK on to this week's podcasting news:Remote recording apps are adding versatility. Squadcast now has a video option (I haven't tried it yet). Riverside (which I use when I have more than 4 participants or clients want video) now has an option to only record audio. And Zencastr now has a video option which you can turn video on or off for. Also, tip of the cap to my fellow podcast producer Johnny Peterson of Straight Up Podcasts - who points out that Zencastr announced they'd be free during the pandemic. Problem is, there's no end in sight to the pandemic. What's the cutoff. Great marketing for Zencastr, but better for the consumer. If you want to try something for free - try Zencastr. Also popular, StreamYard, which I know Steve Steward and the Podcast Editors Academy use - and I may jump onto a live stream with fellow podcast producer Matt Cundil of the Sound Off Media company in the coming weeks.The new version of Apple's iOS, version 14.5, will have some tweaks to the Apple Podcasts app. There will be a big "latest episode" button so folks can sample podcasts they aren't subscribed to. Also, beware starting your show with an ad. You've only got one chance at a first impression. It works for some (Joe Rogan), but it may not be the best idea. Source: The Feed Podcast https://thefeed.libsyn.com/186-follow-usSome news on big podcasting convetions. The in-person of PodFest Expo, originally scheduled for Orlando, has been postponed, with the rescheduled dates TBA. As of right now, Podcast Movement 2021 is still scheduled for Nashville the first week of August - which I'm planning on attending at least as of this recording. Podcast Movement has also released their 2022 schedule - with Podcast Evolutions happening in Los Angeles March 22-26, and Podcast Movement returning to Dallas (after 2020's postponement) August 23-26th.Told you last week about the release of biggest annual study in podcasting- the 2021 Infinite Dial from Edison Research. http://www.edisonresearch.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/The-Infinite-Dial-2021.pdfHere are some additional takeaways.First from Podcast Business Journal: https://podcastbusinessjournal.com/podcast-listening-booming/The amount of monthly podcast listeners jumped 10% in the last year alone - 116 million American adults (41%) now listen to podcasts every month.The amount of weekly podcast listeners jumped 17% since 2020 - to 80 million weekly listeners.The percentage of audio listening dedicated to podcasts has tripled since 2014.As James Cridland of Podnews points out: 12-34 year olds now make up half of US podcast listeners, with 56% listening to podcasts every month. This is a GREAT way to reach an otherwise tough-to-pin-down demographic. https://podnews.net/update/infinite-dial-21And finally, for those of us Xennials - those are borderline Gen X and Millennials...actually maybe Millennials too - everything old is new again. There's a DUCKTALES podcast coming from Disney. It's called "This Duckburg Life." Here's a preview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ByqmF4c9C9cAs always, if you need help creating or improving a podcast, find me at https://jagindetroit.com/ Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Apple is changing its podcast phrasing from Subscribe to Follow. - Tom Webster of Edison Research says 47% of non-podcast listeners think it costs money to subscribe. It's a barrier to entry. So follow, like Twitter or other social media, is a better word. I've said "subscribe for free" in many of my podcasts, but I think follow is better going forward.If you're watching this on video, I bought a new webcam- the Logitech Brio. It's got multiple angles and zooms, with great definition. If you want to do video professionally, that's the one to get. I still think video is better for shorter podcasts, but YouTube can be useful as discovery engine.On Thursday, Edison Research unveiled its 2021 Infinite Dial Survey, which for my money, is the gold standard in podcasting data. Now the study of US Adults covers everything from smart devices to social media to in-car listening, to even video games, but the podcasting data is what I'm drawn to every year.Weekly time spent listening to all online audio is now at an all time high, with a jump of one hour in TSL this year to 16 hours, 14 minutes. And Spotify is now the biggest player in online audio. It hasn’t yet beaten Apple in podcasting specifically, but it’s making huge gains overall. Demographics are continuing to diversify – still majority white, but gains in Black and Hispanic Americans have gotten closer to an overall representation of the US Population.US Weekly podcast listeners listen to an average of 8 episodes per week, across 5.1 different shows.US population 12+, regarding podcasting compared to a year ago, pre-pandemic:222 million (78%) now familiar with podcasting – up from 75% in 2020162 million (57%) have ever listened to a podcast – up from 55% in 2020116 million (41%) are monthly podcast listeners – up from 37% in 202080 million (28%) are weekly podcast listeners - up from 24% in 2020Finally, seemingly proving my theory that the iHeartRadio app is well promoted, but not widely used among people who don't actually work in radio: 72% of survey respondents had awareness of the iHeartRadio brand, thanks to its massive push on terrestrial radio - but only 10% had actually used the app in the last month. Womp Womp.Here is a link to the entire Infinite Dial study. It’s long, but mostly graphs and a quick skim.http://www.edisonresearch.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/The-Infinite-Dial-2021.pdfOther podcasting news this week:Better analytics coming to Google Podcasts, including like and dislike buttons.Entercom buys Podcorn for $22.5 million - a platform to connect podcasters with advertisers. They already bought Pineapple Street Studios and Cadence 13. Want to own vertical.Cuban's fireside in Beta on iOS: https://www.theverge.com/2021/3/5/22315866/mark-cuban-fireside-app-podcast-platform-clubhouseTwitter "Spaces" rolling out to all in April.Apple curating podcasts for kids: https://techcrunch.com/2021/03/08/apple-teams-with-common-sense-media-to-curate-podcasts-for-kids/If you want to know more about podcasting, or if I can help you launch or improve your existing podcast, find me at www.jagindetroit.com or send me an email: [email protected] Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Does your brand have an "audio strategy?" Yes, everyone loves video. But how burnt out are you on the Brady Bunch squares of Zoom? And picture your audience listening to a podcast - in a pair of Air Pods as they walk the dog. Or alone in a car. Audio has intimacy that video doesn't - don't forget that. Great article on audio brand strategy from JAR Audio that I picked up at Podfest this week. https://www.jaraudio.com/blog/audio-strategyIn my presentations, I always talk about podcast listeners. Statistically, they are more educated and earn more money than your average American. It's an audience that my clients want to reach. Well, one more stat to add - podcast listeners are more diverse than the rest of the population. According to Nielsen, the US is 67% white, but American podcast listeners are only 59% Caucasian, with Black, LatinX, and Asian Americans all better represented among podcast listeners. https://www.warc.com/content/paywall/article/warc-datapoints/podcast-listeners-more-diverse-than-us-population/135819eMarketer says Spotify will surpass Apple this year: https://www.emarketer.com/content/spotify-podcast-listener-numbers-will-surpass-apples-this-yearScientia Mobile: Android use 60% in North America to iOS 40%. I'm still an Apple guy, but make sure you're on at least Spotify and Google Podcasts. (via Podnews): https://podnews.net/update/android-gaining-on-iosHowie Mandel, my celebrity doppelganger, is launching a podcast this month with his daughter Jackie, called, simply, Howie Mandel Does Stuff. Also getting a podcast, Lady Bird Johnson, the former first lady. ABC News is releasing her audio diaries, in an 8 part podcast, in celebration of Women's History Month.Looking for a new computer to podcast with? The Podcast Host has an article on the best computers for your needs. https://www.thepodcasthost.com/equipment/best-computer-for-podcastingAnd as far as the rest of your equipment, I have recommendations for the rest of your equipment - microphones and more - here: https://bit.ly/jagpodcastequipmentLinkedIn is rolling out a marketplace to compete with Fiverr and Upwork. They've seen the gig economy, particularly in the pandemic, and they want a piece of the action. As for me, I'm leery of these services - I think you get what you pay for. The country's largest radio station owner, iHeartMedia - is continuing it's dead sprint away from radio - splitting the company into two divisions. One will be the iHeart Digital Audio Group - including, you guessed it, podcasting. The other division will simply be called the iHeart Multiplatform group. Yes, that's right - radio isn't even in the name. The writing is on the wall, everyone. iHeart does not see terrestrial radio as important to its long-term future. Here's the press release, via PodNews: https://podnews.net/press-release/ihm-biz-structureIf you're watching this on video - I'm presenting at PodFest, tonight - Wednesday - at 7:30 Eastern - doing a demo and Q&A on how I use the newest features of Adobe Audition to edit podcasts. If you're listening to this as a podcast on Thursday, well, hopefully it went well! Well, Evo Terra wonders about the future of podcast conventions - or any convention really. Yes, we all miss doing these things in person - but Evo makes a good point - it's easier to bail on a bad presenter on Zoom than it is to walk out of a room in real life. It's a good read: https://podcastpontifications.com/episode/the-future-of-podcasting-conferences-post-pandemicFinally, last tip - too many times podcasters clutter the end of their show by asking you to do 10 things. I'm going to focus on one, to grow my audience. If you like The Jag Show, please consider sharing it with someone else who may enjoy it - social media, email, however. Sharing the show will help me grow my audience. I'll leave the rest of the housekeeping stuff to Michelle O'Dell, the voice of my outtro. Until next time, stay healthy, and stay safe. Lata! Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

First, my tip of the week - make sure your podcast isn't only on the web. It NEEDS to be, at a minimum, on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. I've talked to several very smart people lately who were either never told this or just couldn't figure out how. To submit, you need an RSS feed, and your show needs to have a logo and at least one episode or trailer. Then use your accounts for each of these corresponding apps - links below:Apple: https://itunesconnect.apple.com/loginSpotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/Google Podcasts: https://podcastsmanager.google.com/OK, today's main topic: My first impressions of the Clubhouse App. Yes, it's only available on iOS at this point, not Android. Sorry guys. At first, I wasn't going to join - after all, my newly-turned-40-year-old self had decided I was too old for TikTok, and my Snapchat account has been dormant since the end of my radio career 3 1/2 years ago. I didn't want to deal with another app. But my client Melissa Joy Dobbins (Shout out to the Sound Bites nutrition podcast) suggested it might be a great vehicle for me to connect with clients and potential podcasters. So far, I like the spontaneity. When I joined, all of a sudden I was in a room having a conversation with a college buddy in Miami. Yesterday, I saw a professional contact pop up and I said hello to her - giving me a chance to reconnect. And I'm going to talk to some fellow podcast producers about potentially doing an AMA - or ask me anything about podcasts. Yes, the app has some security concerns - most do. But if Facebook is already sending me targeted ads for Schitt's Creek t-shirts and online casinos, how much privacy do I really have?Here's how I know Clubhouse is something to take note of. Facebook and Twitter are already testing out products to compete, and Mark Cuban is launching something called Fireside to compete with Clubhouse. Their point of differentiation - the ability to monetize. Cuban's big audio takeaways from an interview with Erica Mandy in Business Insider:Streaming is the future, and legacy companies need to get on board in order to surviveThese days, audio is just as competitive as video because the barrier to entry is lower and there’s no pressure to look nice.As new technology emerges, media will continue to evolve — and creators must keep up.Anyone can be a broadcaster, but you still need to figure out how to gain traction with an audience.https://www.businessinsider.com.au/mark-cuban-dives-into-the-future-of-podcasting-and-media-2021-2Podcasting continues to grow among big names. New podcasters include Bill Clinton, Kurt Angle, Paris Hilton, Mike Pence and a new show co-hosted by Barack Obama and Bruce Springsteen. Even a radio station in Jacksonville has launched something called the TrevorCast. It's going to focus on Clemson quarterback Trevor Lawrence, whom the Jacksonville Jaguars are almost guaranteed to select with the top pick in the upcoming NFL Draft. But the draft isn't until April 29th - can you imagine if Jacksonville traded the pick?Podcasting is now big enough to attract hackers and ransomware. Hosts Buzzsprout, Podbean, Spreaker, and Captivate were all targets of DDOS - or denial of service attacks this week. Leave it to Podnews founder James Cridland to track down the Russian hacker who appears responsible. Cridland says the hacker made a bunch of stuff up about exposing vulnerabilities and needing Bitcoin to pay for a sick mother's surgery. What's more likely, according to Cridland, is that this hacker saw how big podcasting is getting, and wanted to make a quick buck. https://podnews.net/article/ddos-team-podcasts?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2021-02-24Spotify launched new tools for podcasters this week, including interactive polls, ability to add video, and most notably to me - a way to turn Wordpress content into a podcast. Stay tuned on that: https://www.axios.com/spotify-interactive-podcast-tools-218eb4d1-9a9f-4dd4-b0fc-5d56a22b3e12.htmlThe Wynn hotel in Vegas is buying sports podcast network Blue Wire and putting a podcast studio in their lobby. One more thing to check out if I ever make it back there after quarantine - my favorite vacation spot in the continental US.Blubrry: 10 Tips for Connecting with Your Audience on Social Media: https://blubrry.com/podcast-insider/2021/02/15/10-tips-for-connecting-with-your-podcast-audience-on-social-media/The Podcast Host: Why Your Podcasts Are Like Pets: https://www.thepodcasthost.com/mindset/podcasts-are-like-pets/?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2021-02-12Finally, I'm doing a 30-minute Demo and Q&A with on the audio editing features of Adobe Audition on Wednesday 3/3 as part of the Podcast Editors Conference at Podfest Global. More here: https://podfestexpo.com/As always, if you need help fine tuning, or even creating a podcast, you can find me at jagindetroit.com - or email me - [email protected]. Find jag on social m

Last week, Squadcast debuted their video recording in their latest upgrade, which puts them on par with StreamYard and Riverside. Squadcast users had been pining for this for awhile, and now it's here. If you'd like to try Squadcast, here's my referral link: http://bit.ly/squadcastjagAlso in the last week, Adam Corolla went on Fox Business with Robert Ellin, the CEO of a company called LiveXLive. They said podcast video will drive the industry's growth over the next 5-7 years, to somewhere between $5 and $10 billion annually. Look, I get it, podcasters want to be on video. And as a radio purist, I've always been against it. But I started offering my clients video recording, because 1) they were asking for it and 2) it would be foolish for me, as a business owner, to turn away a potential revenue stream. So there is an upside.However, I will say - don't turn your back on pure audio. There will always be a place for it - for example, I listen to podcasts when walking my dog or driving somewhere. And especially during the pandemic, I am sooo burnt out on Zoom calls and video chats. Step away from the screen, close your eyes (as long as you're not driving), and listen. It's a much more immersive, connected experience. We spend enough time staring at screens as is.PodNews reports that on Spotify's quarterly earnings call, they said a quarter of all their users listen to podcasts. And they host more shows (2.2 million total) than Apple. https://podnews.net/update/spotify-q42020?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2021-02-04Speaking of Spotify, there's a report about a new patent of theirs that will terrify privacy advocates. They want to use the microphone in your phone to determine your mood and other demographic data to better suggest music for you. Yikes. https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/spotifys-latest-invention-will-determine-your-emotional-state-from-your-speech-and-suggest-music-based-on-itChartable reports there were almost 900,000 new podcasts in 2020. That's two per minute. Also worth noting -these are worldwide numbers - and only half of those shows were in English. And internationally, Spotify does better than Apple Podcasts. The latter of which is expected to redesign their app once again in iOS 14.5. Here's a link to the Chartable study: https://chartable.com/blog/2020-year-in-reviewColin Cowherd and iHeart are teaming up to launch the Volume podcast network. iHeart continues its strategy of landing big names, as opposed to growing talent, like, you know, when they staffed radio local radio stations.If you liked today's Five Minute Friday version of the Jag Show, please share it with someone else you think will enjoy it - sharing the pod is how you can help the show grow. And as always, if you need help with YOUR podcast, you can find me online at https://jagindetroit.com/ Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

I've been having neck issues for a few years now, and it stems largely from being in car accidents in December 2016, March 2017, and July 2019. Now that I'm 40, I really need to start taking better care of myself. This week I saw a neck therapist and this month I've returned to physical therapy. Now, I've ordered an ergonomic desk chair that will keep me sitting upright while recording and editing, and I've download an app that reminds me to stand up every 30 minutes. Take care of yourself - you only get one body.Apple still subscription model for podcasts within Apple Plus. Meanwhile on the video side, NBC's new Peacock platform has made the conscious decision to roll out the platform with a focus on Advertiser Supported Video On Demand (AVOD) vs Subscription Video On Demand (SVOD). If you really want to go ad-free, you can drop $5 a month (if you're not with Comcast), but ads will be less than 5 minutes an hour (compared to 15 on broadcast and 8 on Hulu). There are also caps to make sure the ads aren't competitive, with big advertisers State Farm, Target, Unilever, and Eli Lilly already signing on. As I said last week, there may be a market for an ad-based model as opposed to subscription, in audio as well. I'll gladly sit through an ad or two if it keeps the content free.https://adage.com/article/media/nbc-reveals-ad-strategy-and-initial-sponsors-peacock/2227926https://www.adexchanger.com/tv-2/the-year-in-tv-a-major-shift-to-streaming/Speaking of free... Spotify's Anchor platform is buying ads in podcasts - and the most popular advertiser....is Anchor. Apparently they are ponying up the dough to try and boost their numbers. https://www.theverge.com/2021/1/21/22241066/spotify-anchor-sponsorships-ad-money-spend-podcastingIn terms of paid podcast hosts, PodNews is reporting that The Daily and The New York Times have switched from Art19 to Simplecast. https://podnews.net/update/office-ladies-podcast-of-the-yearI'm happy to hear this, as Simplecast has long been my host of choice, including for this show. I even have a referral link in the show here: http://bit.ly/simplecastjagTold you about the protests outside a Niagara Falls podcast studio over hate speech - they've been evicted. https://podcastbusinessjournal.com/podcast-company-gets-evicted/A study from Westwood One and Magellan AI shows podcast advertising bounced back strong in Q3 last year, after an initial pandemic dip. https://www.westwoodone.com/2021/01/25/westwood-one-magellan-ai-podcast-advertising-analysis-shows-podcasts-are-pandemic-proof-after-modest-dip-in-april-ad-volumes-roar-back-in-q3-2020/Speaking of Magellan AI, they've got their top 15 podcast advertisers for December. Headspace and BetterHelp were #6 and #1 respectively. This tells me two things. 1) We could all use some talk therapy after the events of the last year, and 2) maybe the stigma around it is finally starting to ebb away. https://www.magellan.ai/blog-posts/december-2020-top-spenders-movers-and-shakersOne of the biggest questions potential clients ask me is about making money from your podcast. Well, it can be done, and one of my podcast mentors, Stacey Simms in Charlotte, North Carolina, has a free quiz to see if you're ready to cash in. You can find it here: http://www.bitly.com/podcastmoneyquizFinally, I'm thrilled to announce that Steve Stewart and the Podcast Editor's Club have asked me to do a short presentation on Adobe Audition as a workspace to edit podcasts. I'll be doing that at Podfest Global in early March. You can sign up here: http://bit.ly/podfest2021jagFind JAG on the web: https://jagindetroit.com/ Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Apple considering a podcast subscription in Apple One? I hate the idea...and feel like I'd just listen in Spotify or elsewhere. But the carrot might be that Apple could pay podcast creators for their content if they make it exclusive. I'm skeptical -I'm only paying for something if it's REALLY worth it. For example, I already pay for YouTube TV, Netflix, and more...I'm not likely to drop another $10 or $15 a month on another subscription. Meanwhile, Apple has announced they will Spotlight more independent podcasters, good news from those worried about corporate behemouths taking over the space. Here's a nice roundup from James Cridland of PodNews. https://podnews.net/update/apple-podcast-subscriptionsApple is also beginning to test versions of Apple Podcasts and Apple Music on Windows. That would be nice, to not have to use iTunes on my HP laptop. https://9to5mac.com/2021/01/14/apple-working-to-release-music-and-podcasts-apps-on-microsoft-storeSome former Conde Nast Audio employees have written an open letter trashing their former employer for how they were treated. They allege long hours, low pay, poor communication, and essentially being taken for granted. My take - you get out what you put in. Like anything, audio production can be done right, or it can be done on the cheap. And the difference is obvious: https://formerlycneaudio.medium.com/our-experience-making-podcasts-for-cond%C3%A9-nast-1cc802807891Bloomberg had an article last week talking about Spotify's big bet on podcasting: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/features/2021-01-12/spotify-spot-views-joe-rogan-more-podcasts-as-path-to-profitabilityBut this week, Citi (as in the financial company) is not impressed. https://www.cnbc.com/2021/01/15/spotifys-big-bet-on-podcasts-is-failing-citi-says.htmlPocket Casts being sold - NPR owns about a third of it.Michael Barbaro apologizes for blocking critics of Caliphate: https://twitter.com/mikiebarb/status/1350537776874315777Are Podcasts the new home for domestic terrorists? https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-conspiracy-theories-media-misinformation-social-media-b7bb0ace8a617af733357f6ee15aca03There were protests at a podcast studio in Niagara Falls this week, alleging that some hosts were recording shows with hate speech: https://www.wkbw.com/news/local-news/protesters-call-podcast-studio-racist-demand-it-be-removed-from-cultural-centerInfinite Dial 2021 will be March 11. Can't wait to see the numbers.Finally, a huge thank you to the Podcast Editors Mastermind for having me on an episode of their show, released yesterday. We talked about my journey from radio to podcasting, and how I run my business. You can hear the show here: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/503e76e1-61e9-4b16-b9ac-d8ef0a38de73Need help with your podcast? Find me:https://jagindetroit.com/Email: [email protected] Social: @JAGinDetroit Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Last Saturday and Sunday were the NFL's new expanded "Super Wild Card Weekend," featuring (much to the chagrin of my wife) THREE games on each day. While the NFL has had to adapt during COVID, so have the the television networks. Due to Coronavirus concerns, NBC's Mike Tirico did the play-by-play of Saturday's Tampa Bay-Washington game from home in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Then, on Sunday afternoon, CBS's Tony Romo did the color commentary side from his home in Dallas. In both of these cases, you had announcer teams in separate locations, describing very fast action simultaneously. And I don't know about you, but I don't think either broadcast missed a beat. If they hadn't announced these setups in the pregame, I wouldn't have even known.What does this have to do with your podcast? If two broadcast partners can describe a football game from remote locations, you can easily do a high quality podcast the same way. You may not have a national television network's budget, but there are now a number of different online recording platforms that will record your audio on your local machine, free of internet buffering, THEN upload it to match your cohosts. I've long been a user of Squadcast, but I also know folks who use Zencastr and others. And some folks still use Zoom. Now I think of Zoom as a last resort, but some people are comfortable with If you're going to use Zoom, make sure you use the "original sound" option and, if you're going to edit the audio, be sure to record everyone on a separate track. You'll thank me later.For folks who want to record a video copy of their podcast as well, apps like StreamYard and Riverside are gaining popularity quickly. And Squadcast is rumored to be adding video this month.Pandora worth a BILLION less, due to music royalty issues. Sorry, SiriusXM. https://www.billboard.com/articles/business/9508785/siriusxm-pandora-royalty-costs-impairment-expense/?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2021-01-11Update: Told you last week about Breaker joining Twitter. Now it turns out their TEAM is, but the Breaker app itself has been acquired by Los Angeles based Maple Media: https://blog.breaker.audio/the-breaker-team-is-joining-twitter-f8c1721d66c6Finally, podcasting is not a free for all. What you say and do - both on and off "the air" have consequences. By now you've heard that YouTube banned Steve Bannon, and President Trump was kicked off of basically every platform out there. This week, Cumulus Radio threatened to fire any talk show hosts that perpetuate misinformation about the 2020 Election.The big drama in podcasting surrounds the team at The Daily from the New York Times. Two years ago, they did a riveting mini-series, released on Saturdays, called Caliphate, which was the story of a radicalized Canadian turned ISIS fighter. The only thing wrong with the story - it wasn't real. In an interview published December 18th on Caliphate's feed, Michael Barbaro sat down with Times head honcho Dean Baquet, who said his organization was duped - the supposed ISIS fighter made it all up. The interview seemingly owned up to the organization's mistakes, explained what happened, and what they will do better.I didn't hear the interview this week, a month later. Why? Yes, it was in the Caliphate Feed, but not in The Daily's feed, where the podcast was repeatedly promoted. Seems the Times wanted to create separation between The Daily and Caliphate, despite the fact that Caliphate was produced by the team at The Daily, which includes Lisa Tobin, now engaged to Michael Barbaro, and Andy Mills, who has had a bevy of #MeToo allegations levied against him in recent weeks. And perhaps most egregiously, there are reports of Barbaro privately encouraging reporters to back off their stories on the SNAFU. I once had a boss say, "You Eff up, you Fess Up." And while I'm a huge fan of The Daily, it seems they really missed the mark here. Again, behavior matters.https://www.npr.org/2021/01/12/955873886/public-radio-stations-rebuke-times-for-ethical-lapses-related-to-caliphate-podca?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2021-01-13If you'd like help with your podcast, I've now added video recording to my services. You can check them all out here. https://bit.ly/39wRF0D Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In my 2020 recap, I mentioned that we need to keep an eye on the big podcasting behemoths - Apple, Spotify, Google, and now Amazon. In the time between when I recorded the show and when it was published, Amazon announced they are buying Podcast studio Wondery for $300 million. According to James Cridland of PodNews, Wondery has had international success where many other studios haven't. And they also have 11 of 2020's Top 25 podcast. And could Amazon Prime's need for content be a good fit for Wondery? Here's a link to Cridland's analysis: https://podnews.net/update/amazon-buys-wonderyAlso getting into the podcast/audio world - Twitter. Podcast app Breaker is folding after 3 years, and joining Twitter. Now Breaker had positioned itself as social media for podcasts, but by joining Twitter, that's going to expand Twitter's audio only tweet capabilities. If you use Breaker as your podcast listening app or host, they've posted instructions on how to move elsewhere: https://blog.breaker.audio/the-breaker-team-is-joining-twitter-f8c1721d66c6What do all of these big moves by big players in podcasting mean? Well, former Jag Show podcast guest and OG podcaster Evo Terra thinks it means a dethroning of Apple as king of podcasting, but the flip side is that podcasters are going to have to make sure their shows are available on many, many different platforms as they get market share. https://podcastpontifications.substack.com/p/the-death-of-podcasting-dominanceOf course, Apple falling from the dominant spot might not be a bad thing - back to James Cridland of PodNews - who understands the tech side of podcasting far better than I do. He highlights that Apple Podcasts may be sharing more of your data than anyone else. See, other podcast apps check the RSS feeds of shows you subscribe to, then give you new content when available. Apple Podcasts, however, check in a way that reveals your IP address and other info - and does it frequently. Cridland explains: https://medium.com/curious/apple-podcasts-poor-for-privacy-db7a826a6123While Spotify has made strides toward getting copyrighted music into podcasts, there is a downside. It's now becoming, like Soundcloud, a place for bootleg - and questionably legal - songs. Variety has an article about the loophole that people are exploiting: https://variety.com/2020/music/news/spotify-podcast-remixes-bootleg-songs-1234853328/Finally, the first time you hear your voice "on tape" - or recorded in some way, you'll almost always be surprised - it often sounds nothing like you'd expect. Why? Physics. The way you hear your OWN voice is how it rattles around in the bones between your jaw and your ear canal. That's not how it comes out to the rest of the world. I always tell clients that, but there's a nice deep dive on medium from Ryan Fan. https://medium.com/publishous/i-still-hate-how-my-voice-sounds-in-recordings-464d6e56cfb9If you enjoyed today's show, feel free to share it with your network, and For help with your podcast, or with creating a new podcast, feel free to reach out.https://jagindetroit.com/podcast-recording-packages/ Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Podcasting is getting bigger - monthly podcast listening went over 100 million Americans this year, before pandemic.Overall/Technology:Pandemic paused things, we all scattered but came back. Desktop listening ticked up, overall listening shifted later in day as we got up later and didn't get in our cars, but new routines formed. Another pandemic affect - technology. Grandparents are now on Zoom, Facetime, and more. Which means more people listening. It also means more people creating. We went over a million podcasts in 2020, and at our current pace, we could hit 2 million in 2021. The key will be quality - anybody can create a show with mediocre content or audio quality. But if you can excel at both, the cream will rise to the top.Nick Hilton in Medium, tech more accessible: https://medium.com/pod-culture/podcasting-in-2020-the-audit-9b5d495a4b3aAlso, look at shorter shows - increasingly on demand world, with more online content competing for our attention. Better too short than too long. Leave your audience wanting more.Advertising:Over $1 billion industry in 2021 - woulda been 2020. Top Tier shows are starting to hit a saturation point - Bank of America and McDonalds dropped $3.5 million on podcasting in November. Blubrry CEO Todd Cochrane tells Podcast Business Journal that "second tier" shows will start seeing more advertisers - those are shows between 1k and 20k downloads.https://podcastbusinessjournal.com/8150-2/Something to keep an eye on in 2021 is dynamic, or targeted advertising. The industry is getting better at sending custom ads to you based on your location, interests, and more. (YouTubeTV). But privacy concerns are growing - opt in/opt out? How much info will advertisers have access to?Music in Podcasts:Anchor/Spotify allowing - kinks to work out - but could position them as leader in 2021.Diversity:Podcast Movement looked different last year, international online this year, and with the racial reckoning we've seen this year, more and more voices. More countries too.Big Names in Podcasting:Spotify on fire - Apple is going to have to do more - Google finally getting it together - iHeartRadio all in - big one to watch is Amazon - Prime had big year, Alexa integration. I do think there's a medium market - me, as opposed to $25k per showFinally, Soul Stories on Spotify: Trent Reznor, Jon Batiste, Jamie Foxx, Angela Bassett: https://open.spotify.com/show/1bGcQtW0E298G8N4xQo4hG Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Merry Christmas from your friendly neighborhood Jew. While I don't celebrate the religious aspect of the holiday, I do enjoy the holiday spirit. And in 2020, whatever brings you joy - do it.My tip of the week - using your smartphone as a webcam. Now again, I'm more focused on the audio side of things, but there will always be some folks who want a video component. So I've been working with Abel Grunfeld and the folks at Riverside FM to begin offering this to my clients. When I started, I wasn't wild about my new HP laptop's built in webcam, nor the USB one that I got on Amazon. Well, turns out, the best camera I own is my iPhone Xs. And there are apps that will allow you to sync your smartphone to your laptop and use that as a camera. I've done some testing, and now my video quality can match the audio quality in my studio. Abel recommended Camo for Mac users. For Windows, I like an app called iVCam. There's a free version, but the high end version was a one time cost of only about 25 bucks.Next week, I'll do a look back at 2020 and a look ahead to 2021 in terms of podcasting, but for now, some quick news tidbits if you're looking to plug in your headphones and get some "me time" over the holiday. Incidentally, that's what tell new clients. Everyone's burnt out on Zoom, so give them a podcast and a chance to walk away from their screen.Speaking of families, nice primer by Lindsay Harris Friel from The Podcast Host for how to deal with different family members as it relates to your podcasting career. Those relatives include the "I Don't Get It," the "Reckless Cheerleader," the "Unintentional Underminer," the "Intentional Underminer," and of course "The Partner." Lindsay breaks down each of these types, and how to deal with them. https://www.thepodcasthost.com/mindset/what-my-family-thinks-of-podcasting/Is spoken word audio cutting into music streaming? An article in no less than Billboard suspects that may be the case. While music streaming subscribers are up, time spent listening is flat. Also, the article cites research from Edison that spoken word streaming was up 20% from 2014 to 2019 - with music down 5%, and that's before the pandemic and 2020 Election Cycle. https://www.billboard.com/articles/business/9500546/streaming-music-growth-stalled-factors-attention-economyI opened this show talking about audio producers wanting to include video, but turns out, the opposite is also true. There's a big video producer...wanting to do audio. Netflix, after months of rumors, has debuted an audio-only mode on their Android app. The idea is you can "watch" a show by just listening to dialogue and narration. Not sure if this will take off, but if Netflix is taking notice of audio consumption, that's worth noting.If you like this show, please feel free to share it with a fellow podcast enthusiast - that will help it grow. As always, if you need help with your podcast, you can reach me at jagindetroit.com. I leave you with my Uncle Jeff's two rules for life - today seems a good time to mention them.Know Your Audience.Be Kind. Everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle Depending on when you listen to this, I hope you have a Merry Christmas, and a happy and healthy new year. Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What's your podcast doing over Christmas? You have options, especially this year. You could re-publish a great episode or interview from earlier in the year. You could do a year-end recap. Or, you could take a week off. Whatever you decide, today's piece of advice comes from my colleague Johnny Peterson of Straight Up Podcasts and the Pod Logic podcast. TELL your audience what you're going to do - you want to manage their expectations. For example, every Friday before a long weekend, on The Daily, Michael Barabaro says "See you on Tuesday, after the holiday." If you tell your audience not to expect an episode until January, you won't leave them waiting for something that won't show up. Of course, this year is different from all other years, in that many of us won't be travelling over the holiday. And while that may mean less time in cars and waiting at airports, it may mean more free time around the house between December 24th and January 1st. So, make a decision, and tell your audience. For example, I plan on releasing an episode next week, perhaps on Christmas Day. After all, I'm Jewish, I usually volunteer to work December 25th, so my co-workers can stay home.Steve Goldstein, a brilliant radio turned podcasting mind, writes about the resurgence of audio in his 2020 recap. Highlights include Apple, Amazon, and Google all getting into the space, as well as C-suite executives now seeing the power of audio. https://www.amplifimedia.com/blogstein/s5yixzq7ir85mclsvw6tewrxy8nyq9?mc_cid=d5cf6b7f30&mc_eid=0629248349Speaking of which, Spotify and The Drum have partnered on a three part podcast series on the future of audio, and how powerful it is. https://www.thedrum.com/news/2020/12/10/spotify-and-the-drum-launch-podcast-series-educate-the-future-audioAnd of course, Spotify continues to land the biggest names in the world. They've announced a new podcast hosted by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex - Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. Maybe their friend Michelle Obama had something to do with it. https://newsroom.spotify.com/2020-12-15/spotifys-new-multiyear-partnership-with-the-duke-and-duchess-of-sussexs-archewell-audio-promises-podcasts-that-will-inspireThere's an effort to create a universal definition of every role in podcasting - from host and guest to editor and producer. There's a white paper on this called Podcast Taxonomy: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1pkkb6_Kg7Dc33IVgTopJO7QNka3FnH7m/viewI tell all my clients not to sweat downloads, and building your podcast is a process, a marketing tool. But there will always be folks who want some way to measure success. Bryan Barletta of $ounds Profitable, a weekly newsletter, does a nice job of breaking down "Lift Reports." https://soundsprofitable.com/update/understanding-podcast-lift-reports?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-12-16Substack, a popular email and blogging platform, has gotten into the podcast hosting space. https://library.substack.com/p/how-to-use-substack-for-podcastsIf you want to start a podcast but have zero budget to do it, Tal Minear has a piece that shows how he created audio drama with 10 free tools. https://talminear.medium.com/free-tools-ive-used-to-make-my-audio-drama-81746291d1beAnd finally, this episode is being released Friday, December 18th, which happens to be...gulp....my 40th birthday. It's crazy to think what a difference a decade makes. The night I turned 30, I rented out the back of a nightclub in Burlington, Vermont, and had a bunch of friends in from out of state. 6 months later, I got my dream radio job here in Detroit. Three months after that, I met the woman who I'd later marry, even though I didn't know it at the time. The last decade has been filled with travel, a huge career change to start my own business, dogs, and of course a global pandemic. At 40, a nightclub has no appeal to me, COVID aside. But a nice night in, with steak, lobster tails, and Johnnie Walker Blue should do just fine. Thanks in advance, honey.I hope that whatever your holidays look like this year, you enjoy them in good health, and here's to a much better 2021. I'll talk to you next week. Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

As an early 40th birthday present, my wife bought me (us) a new TV for our living room. It's gorgeous - it's a Samsung 55" QLED Q8DT 2020 model (the Costco version). Our previous TV was an 8-year-old Vizio that she bought when she moved into the house. And it was fine. In fact, as a sports fan, I'm a little embarrassed to say that SHE noticed the old TV's age before I did. But when we got this new television mounted on the wall, the difference was JAW DROPPING. We wish we had watched the first 200 episodes of Hawaii Five-O on this new screen. I watched a special about the volcanos of Iceland - the visuals were spectacular. And the built in surround sound was so good - when there was a thunderstorm on Grey's Anatomy, our dog ran to the basement.Why do I bring this up? It's easy to think your podcast sounds fine - until you are presented with a much nicer alternative. Your sound can be better. Your content can be better. Your music can be better. And by you, I mean all of us. If you'll indulge me for a quick plug, I am running a special through the end of the year. If you want a professional critique of your podcast, I'll listen to an entire episode and give you detailed feedback and suggestions for improvements. Normally I charge $99 for this - but it's only $49 through the end of the year. Here's a link: https://jagindetroit.com/podcast-recording-packages/If you read one podcasting article this week, make it this one from Pacific Content: 14 Predictions for podcasting in 2021. They talk to experts about an increase in diversity, tech, ad revenue, and more. https://blog.pacific-content.com/14-podcast-predictions-for-2021-from-industry-leaders-60e2b63f477eYou may have seen your "Spotify Wrapped" for the music and/or podcasts you listened to most in 2020. Turns out the product has some pretty good advertising insights too. https://www.adweek.com/media/spotify-first-2020-wrapped-for-advertisers-listening-insights/?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-12-09Spotify also says most Podcast listening in India happens at night. I wonder if that corresponds to daylight hours in the US, when content is released. I had a consult with a gentleman in India this week - at noon my time. It was 11pm there. https://newsroom.spotify.com/2020-12-08/new-insights-reveal-podcast-patterns-in-india/?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-12-10Tom Webster of Edison Research says before you ask your listeners to take a survey, consider all of these: https://tomwebster.substack.com/p/what-do-listeners-wantpart-oneForbes says Amazon is in exclusive talks to by podcasting's Wondery. That could set up an interesting war between Amazon and Spotify in podcasting: https://www.forbes.com/sites/billrosenblatt/2020/12/04/amazons-acquisition-of-wondery-would-put-podcasting-on-a-path-to-a-crossroads/?sh=4ce5ef144e33Two thirds of advertisers feel that podcast advertising is either as effective or better, as compared to a year ago. http://www.insideradio.com/podcastnewsdaily/advertisers-have-growing-confidence-in-podcast-advertising-survey-shows/article_aff86ae2-38b2-11eb-be60-3393b6765951.html?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-12-08It used to be that TV Shows and movie ideas came from books. Now, ideas are increasingly coming from podcasts and other audio intellectual property, says Deadline.com. https://deadline.com/2020/12/podcasts-hollywood-film-tv-adaptations-trend-deals-1234636040/UK podcast host Podiant is offering a workshop on how to grow your podcast for 2021- it's next Wednesday at 11am Eastern. https://uk.podiant.co/xp/dec20/?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-12-09The iHeartRadio Podcast Awards will be virtual this year. Memo to anyone who works at that company. Nobody cares. :)And finally, the website Midroll (owned by Stitcher) has a case study on the company Manscaped - and its increased spend on podcast advertising. They have really seen a value in host-read ads. So Manscaped, if you're listening, and you wanna send me a few bucks, my listeners can learn waay more about me than they ever wanted. https://www.midroll.com/manscaped-and-podcasting-are-growing-together/?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-12-04As always, if I can help you with your existing podcast, edit it for you, or help you design and create one, I'm here to help. https://jagindetroit.com/Or by email: [email protected] Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This weekend, I was caught up on all my subscribed podcasts and wanted something to listen to while walking the dog. So I actually opened my SiriusXM app and found the week's "Pop2Kountdown" - a snapshot of the Top 30 songs this week during a specific year in the 2000's. It's hosted by my former Syracuse classmate and all around good guy Rich Davis, who does a phenomenal job. For me, the sentimental value is off the charts. I graduated college in 2002, and started full-time in radio in 2004. So if there's a song from that time, I can generally tell you which radio station I played it at, and there's usually a funny story too. My point is this. I listen to a LOT of people talking - podcasts about the news, politics, sports, you name it. And it can burn you out. And with us spending less time in cars, we may not listen to music as much. Throw something on once in awhile, and escape.OK, this is a podcast about podcasts, so let's get caught up. Apple still has the lion's share of in-app listening, but there are actually MORE podcasts now in Spotify. Apple has roughly 1.7 million shows, but Spotify is up at 1.9 million. So that's who has the most shows - what about the most listening? I told you in November that Buzzsprout says Spotify listening is quickly catching up to Apple. Well, not according to Libsyn. Apparently the jury is still out. https://podcastbusinessjournal.com/libsyn-apple-still-dominates-by-far/?vgo_ee=MYFFchsNQquCI9pBrYt34RwUnRnlmwiuCIJkd9A7F3A%3DAlso, Spotify released their top shows of 2020. They are, in order:The Joe Rogan ExperienceTED Talks DailyThe Daily (New York Times)The Michelle Obama PodcastCall Her DaddyAll the stress of 2020 got you up at night? Some would suggest listening to a light hearted podcast in bed. But here's a podcast designed to help you fall asleep, It's called Sleep Cove - here's the story from PodNews. https://podnews.net/press-release/sleep-cove?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-11-27A service called Poise claims to turn your text into speech - not with AI, but with professional voice actors - with rates of $11 for every 500 words. I'm intrigued, but don't know much about them: https://www.narratedbypoise.com/And finally, Resonate Recordings says it's best to publish your podcast super early in the morning, and in the middle of the week. As for me, I'm sticking to my current schedule for 5 Minute Fridays - partly for consistency, and partly because I don't want to change the name. https://resonaterecordings.com/2018/05/when-to-release-your-podcast/?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-11-27 Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

I've been saying this for a decade now. For local media to survive and thrive, the corporate giants need to leave the space, and local talent needs to be free to cultivate their personalities and relationships within the community.That's exactly what happened here in Detroit with Woodward Sports, the brainchild of former Detroit radio personality Sam "Stick" Day. Stick takes us through the personal tragedy in his life that spurred him to finally start this passion project, his partners, and the personalities that left traditional radio to join the enterprise.What started as an idea for a podcast blossomed into a full blown network, thanks to a partnership with Chad Johnson of Lady Jane's, a men's salon chain. Woodward Sports currently boasts a three-person morning show, the aptly named "Morning Wood," broadcast digitally every day from 8-10am. Stick hosts with Joey Namou and Krissy T. Soon, Detroit sports talk veteran Sean Baligian will team up with former Detroit Lion Joique Bell for a midday show, and an announcement of an afternoon show will come soon enough.Stick and I (and Joey, who joined us for the first half of the conversation), talked about the quickly changing media landscape. Stick and Joey were able to leverage some of their relationships that started at the radio station - and turn them into station vehicles, paid sponsors, and more. We talk about digital ad spend, and its value over traditional media.We also covered the out-dated model of music radio stations, who often have room to cultivate only one personality, with the rest of the airstaff being a jukebox. Woodward Sports hopes to bring dynamic personalities back to Detroit. And as for the sports station in town - Stick sees plenty of weaknesses there too.Finally, I asked the face of Woodward Sports who he thinks is capable of bringing the next Championship to the Motor City.Detroit's newest media entity may only be a few months old, but sports teams and other media outlets alike are taking notice. This will be a story worth watching.Resources:Woodward Sports Website; https://woodwardsports.com/JAG In Detroit Website: https://jagindetroit.com/ Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

No Friday episode today with the holiday, so here's a "5 Minute Wednesday."As 2019 ended, my wife and I were trying to maximize our time with our first dog Brady. He'd had a leg amputated and was dying of cancer. We were extremely lucky to have him as long as we did, and he wasn't suffering. But as the months wore on, this cloud hung over our head. We always wondered, "will today be the day he decides he's ready to leave?" That's how we spent the last quarter of 2019, with New Year's Eve fireworks being the moment that he decided to give up the fight. New Year's Day, we had the whole family over to say goodbye, and that's what we did the morning of January 2nd. My wife and I looked at each other and said, "we're gonna chalk this up to 2019, the worst year ever. 2020 will be better, and it starts now."Famous last words, right?You don't need me to tell you how bad 2020 has been. We've been isolated, we've lost friends and relatives, jobs, and more. And as we approach the holiday tomorrow, maybe the advice of "Be thankful for what you do have, it's 2020" rings hollow. Maybe you're struggling and it's not easy to have "perspective."But at the risk of being cheesy, be grateful not to appease your mother, or your friend who's had it worse than you this year, but for yourself. According to Positive Psychology.com - the health benefits of gratitude are countless. They include a reduction in depressive symptoms, a drop in blood pressure, improved sleep, and just overall well being. https://positivepsychology.com/benefits-gratitude-research-questions/I'm not here to preach perspective. But in this giant turd-burger of a year, we could all use a pick-me-up. Find something, however small, and be thankful - not for anyone else, but for your own physical and mental health.With that in mind, if you'll indulge me for a moment. I'm thankful, of course, for my health and my business, and the fact that my wife and I are both still working. And of course I'm thankful for her - we've been here together, all day, every day, in our small house for the last 8 months...and here's the thing. We still LIKE each other. In fact, it's been the running joke. I really can't think of another person on the planet I could have been confined with for this long and still genuinely like. And we are almost through our big pandemic project - 220 episodes of the Hawaii Five-O reboot down, 30 to go. Because you gotta have goals. Also, I'm thankful for our new dog, Jules. She's the sweetest thing ever...shows pure love, and keeps us honest and moving, with twice daily walks of 2 miles or more.This year in particular, I'm grateful for all things podcasting. The ability to record remotely, some amazing clients - both new and established - and the fact that after leaving a career I knew for almost two decades, I was able to find my new passion in the field. I'm also thankful for my peers in podcasting and podcast editing. There's Steve Stewart's Podcast Editors Club on Facebook, Editing courses from Carrie Caufield Arick, Tom Kelly, and Tanner Campbell, and of course my monthly meetup with Catherine O'Brien in Baton Rouge, Johnny Peterson in Fort Worth, Matt Cundill in Winnipeg, and David Yas in Boston. In fact, Johnny's podcast this morning about thankfulness, in part, inspired today's show.I was listening to The Daily from the New York Times this morning - they profiled a food bank in New York City. There was a woman who had fallen on hard times and was so thrilled to get cucumbers for salad and chocolate milk for her kids. Look, there's no doubt that 2020 has been anything BUT sunshine, puppies, and rainbows. But find something - anything - to be grateful for. As we prepare for a long winter, we have to take care of our mental health. So be thankful - not because someone told you to. But because it will help.Happy Thanksgiving from my family to yours. Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

No matter what business you're in, it's crucial to superserve your clients. I'm told there are two ways to build a business - the Amazon model (scale) and the Ben & Jerry's model (do one thing really well, then build on it). I'm a Ben & Jerry's guy, and it has nothing to do with Phish Food or the fact that I lived in Vermont for 7 years.Something I pride myself on is above-and-beyond customer service. This relationship building has allowed me to build my business organically, without paid marketing or ads. I was reminded of this twice in the last few weeks. First, I had a non-profit client who's been with me since the beginning. She never had much money, but I helped her out wherever I could. Well, she got a grant for 2021 and is now going to pay me above my normal rate to produce a series of shows for her. Turns out the time I invested in her was well spent.This week, one of my clients told me she was giving me a raise. I had been on the fence about raising my rates with her, but she felt my work was worthy of additional compensation. Some might say "if she's offering you more money, you're not charging her enough." But I say, which makes her more likely to recommend me to a colleague? Me asking her for more money, or her telling me I deserve more money?Onto this week's podcasting news....Apple now allows you to embed a podcast onto your website - something Spotify did long ago. https://tools.applemediaservices.com/apple-podcastsNice to see Apple do something as Spotify keeps closing the gap between them. According to Buzzsprout (and as reported in PodNews), Apple now accounts for LESS than half of their total downloads. It's still far and away #1 at 47%, but second place Spotify is at 24%, and Google Podcasts still lags in third place at 2.4%. After that is everyone else. See for yourself: https://www.facebook.com/groups/BuzzsproutCommunity/permalink/3800456513307468Nielsen, the ratings people, say Podcasting will be a $1 billion industry in 2021. And with 20% annual growth, total audience is on pace to double by 2023. https://www.nielsen.com/us/en/news-center/2020/nielsen-at-podcast-movement-2020-opportunities-in-a-skyrocketing-industry/?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-11-18Podcasting event tomorrow, Saturday November 20th. Audio Recess from PRX and the Google Podcasts Creator Program: https://googlecp.prx.org/audio-recessTwo new podcasts that I WON'T be checking out - That's Messed Up - which breaks down episodes of Law & Order: SVU - and Hunting Ghislane, about Jeffrey Epstein's accomplice Ghislane Maxwell. 2020 has been depressing enough. Hard pass on both of those.Finally, the ex-radio guy in me would be remiss if I didn't pour one out for 89X, the Windsor Ontario based rock station that served Detroit for thirty years. Their owners, Bell Media (now, shockingly, owned by iHeartMedia), flipped the station to country yesterday. In response, Entercom flipped a frequency I used to be on 98.7, from soft rock to alternative to fill the hole. What does all of this mean? Music radio has spent the last two decades squeezing out most of its personality. So today, if you don't have a spoken word (news, talk, sports) station, or at least an outstanding morning show, you don't have a chance.If you need help with your podcast, feel free to reach me here. https://jagindetroit.com/podcast-recording-packages/ Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

My tip this week - now, more than ever, force yourself to do the hard things. For me, it's working on my business. The only way I'm going to do it, is to block some time, sit down, and do it. What does that mean for you?Riverside.FM has officially launched, as a remote video recording platform. Plans go from $20 to $50 a month, depending on if you want video and how much. I haven't tried it yet - but it's getting good reviews, including from Hillary Clinton.https://techcrunch.com/2020/11/09/rverside-fm/?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-11-12Spotify has its biggest acquisition yet - buying podcast host Megaphone for $235 million. Spotify has already bought The Ringer, Anchor, Gimlet and more. Reaction to the deal is mixed. It really seems Spotify is, to paraphrase Pinky and the Brain, trying to take over the world.Also this week, Spotify seemed to float the idea of a subscription model - surveying its listeners to see if they'd pay anywhere from $3 to $8 monthly. https://gizmodo.com/looks-like-spotify-is-considering-a-subscription-servic-1845613780Anchor is now IAB certified - meaning your downloads are real, not just from bots. I still don't trust them, but here's their press release. https://blog.anchor.fm/updates/iab?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-11-06Daniel J. Lewis of MyPodcast Reviews says Apple added another 100,000 podcasts in October, bringing its total to over 1.6 million shows. https://mypodcastreviews.com/podcast-industry-statistics/But don't be intimidated - as Libsyn's Rob Walch reminded us at Podcast Movement Virtual, 8 of 9 new shows don't even make it to a tenth episode. If you can commit to good quality content for the long haul, you've got much less competition than you thought.As always, if you want help launching, editing, consulting or anything else with your podcast, you can find me online at www.jagindetroit.com - send an email to [email protected], or find me on social @JAGinDetroit. Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This episode is a repurposing of audio from a podcast I previously hosted, "The Quizzo Cast," which was put out my bar trivia company Quizzo. I've worked with then for three years.One of our hosts, Jason Idalski, is a game show master. He went on Jeopardy, and won two days in a row. He joined hosts Tom Whittaker and myself to talk about the experience behind the scenes, including his interactions with the late, great Alex Trebek.This seemed an appropriate time to re-share this audio. Enjoy. Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It's been a long week. It started with two familiar foes in conflict with each other. If only they could work together, the sky would be the limit, but one side is so obsessed with the other, that they seem to have lost their own way. Of course I'm talking about radio and podcasting.On Monday, iHeartMedia laid off another bucket of local radio employees. (Edit: More came Thursday.) It's no secret that the radio industry has been hard-hit by the pandemic, and radio revenue is way down. In a vacuum, you can understand the tough decision to have layoffs. In 2020, that's not unique to radio. But consider this. Last week I told you that iHeart just bought Voxnest - rumors have the price tag around $55 million. Voxnest is big in podcast analytics, and also owns the Spreaker platform. Once iHeart filed bankruptcy in the face of its $22 billion debt, it freed them up to re-work their business ventures.Radio's strength has always been its personality -the ability to connect to listeners. And a big part of that is its on air talent. But when a company decides its priority is to invest in podcasting, and keep slashing radio assets, that tells you where their priorities are. I just hope they don't destroy podcasting like they did radio. iHeart owns the most shows in Top 200 podcasts, according to Podcast Business Journal, largely because they pimp them out across their radio network.https://podcastbusinessjournal.com/media-monitors-iheart-is-1/Stitcher launching new app. Instead of Favoriting a show, you'll follow it to subscribe.Magellan's AI Blog tracked the Election, and how the Biden and Trump campaigns utilized podcast advertising. https://www.magellan.ai/blog-posts/how-have-the-presidential-candidates-used-podcast-advertising-in-the-election?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-10-30Nielsen has more data about host-read podcast ads being more effective: https://www.nielsen.com/us/en/insights/article/2020/host-read-podcast-ads-pack-a-brand-recall-punch/Finally, two great courses I took this week in my professional development.Tom Kelly from Clean Cut Audio did a "Beginner's Guide to Equalization for Podcast and Voiceover on Udemy: https://www.udemy.com/share/103H9oAEASdFhTR3gJ/Tanner Campbell's "Learn to Edit Your Own Podcast" on AppSumo. https://appsumo.com/learn-edit-your-own-podcast/?utm_source=sendfox&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=this-week-in-podcast-editingBoth courses were very helpful as I work to improve my skills in Compression and Equalization. Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

My tip this week doesn't explicitly related to podcasting - We are all stressed. Find your escape, and lean into it - especially over the next week or so.I'm recording this on Thursday, the final day of Podcast Movement virtual. While it's impossible to duplicate the in-person excitement of an event like this, the organizers did a great job under the circumstances. A couple additional takeaways:Shante Holley did a nice session, The Gift of Transparency: Fostering Connections with Your Listeners. She talked about being real with your audience when life throws difficulties at you. This will create a bond with your listeners. I can attest to this - when my best friend was killed by a drunk driver in 2006, I went on the radio and talked about it. People called in all night. Be real. It's what made radio great, and why podcasting can be so powerful. Late last week, Rob Walch from Libsyn echoed my sentiments that your podcast doesn't need video. According to Rob, ONLY 14 of the top 50 Aggregator Apps fully support Video, and ZERO of the Top 200 Episodes in Apple Podcasts are Video. (10/18/20)Again, the power of an audio podcast is that it goes where video can't. Still don't believe me? NETFLIX is testing out an audio-only version that will let you listen to something on the go without actually watching it. https://www.protocol.com/netflix-testing-audio-only-modeSpeaking of conferences, PRX and Google Podcasts are partnering for a free one-day seminar called Podcast Recess, set for the Saturday before Thanksgiving, November 21. https://hopin.to/events/audio-recessiHeartRadio bought Voxnest, which owns the Spreaker platform. https://podcastbusinessjournal.com/iheart-purchases-spreakers-parent-company-voxnest/Stitcher is redesigning its platform: https://routenote.com/blog/podcasting-app-stitcher-gets-a-redesign-with-useful-new-features/?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-10-27The Athletic is now partnering with Megaphone for hosting and dynamic ads. https://podnews.net/press-release/athletic-megaphone?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-10-27Shure has released a mid-price point microphone, the MV7, for $249.https://www.shure.com/en-US/products/microphones/mv7?utm_source=podcast-movement&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podcastmvmt-prospecting-newsletter-reveal&sfid=mv7&ptnr=podcastmvmtI haven't tried it, but Forbes has a great review on it. It's got USB and XLR, it's a dynamic mic, software control, and you can even record into an iPhone or iPad with it. https://www.forbes.com/sites/marksparrow/2020/10/26/shure-has-created-a-classic-podcasting-microphone-and-its-a-real-thriller/#75468ce16e1bAs always, if you need help starting/launching your podcast, or if you have a podcast but don't have the time for a detailed edit, I'm happy to help. Find me on social @JAGinDetroit or on my website, https://jagindetroit.com/You can also email me: [email protected]'m always happy to chat. Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

For years, I've been singing the praises of Podcast Movement - the convention that got me into this space full time. This year, as with all other things, they've gone virtual. And I really like the format - the seminars and panels were Tuesday/Thursday this week and next. Staggering them out allows me to run my business during the off days, and more importantly, avoids the dreaded "Brady Bunch Square Zoom Fatigue." I watch what I can live. When I hit my saturation point, I can go back and watch recordings for an hour or two on the off days. Brilliantly put together. I'll mention two panels from week 1.1) The always brilliant Tom Webster of Edison Research (Tuesday keynote):43% of the US population listen to spoken word audio dailyIn Q2 of 2020, Podcast Listening at home was up to 73% of total listening.58% of monthly podcast listeners spend time listening to podcasts with others. The pandemic has shifted the podcasting mentality from "intimate" to "sense of community."2) Spotify's panel from Thursday.Spotify - 300 million users, half are premium. 200% increase YoY.Spotify data - which artists your listeners like, notifications for charts and editorial podcasts, social asset, promo cards.Brene Brown's "Dare To Lead" now up as Spotify exclusive. https://newsroom.spotify.com/2020-09-23/the-ever-curious-brene-brown-comes-to-spotify-with-two-exclusive-podcasts/?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-09-24Billy McFarland - Dumpster Fyre Podcast from Prison, with Jordan Harbinger (via Podnews): https://www.vanityfair.com/style/2020/10/fyre-festivals-billy-mcfarland-has-recorded-a-podcast-from-prison?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-10-21Descript launches video editor...stay tuned.https://www.descript.com/video-editingIf you're looking for help launching, refining, or editing your podcast - you can always feel free to reach out to me:Website: https://jagindetroit.com/email: [email protected]: (313) 757-2JAG (2524)Instagram/Twitter/Facebook: @JAGinDetroit Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week's podcasting tip involves prepping your show (which you should always do). Some folks prefer to have the entire episode scripted out. Others would rather go off of bullet points. We explore the difference.If you think your podcast is award-worthy, submissions are open for two of them - The Ambies through the Podcast Academy https://www.thepodcastacademy.com/general/custom.asp?page=Awardsand the Webbie awards, which award the best of the web:https://www.webbyawards.com/Google Podcasts are going to start showing analytics on when your podcast shows up in Google Search Results: https://podcastsmanager.google.com/aboutShe Podcasts, which is a 20,000 member community for female podcasters, has launched a virtual membership: https://supersquad.shepodcasts.com/Amazon has bought the domain Podcast.com - James Cridland of PodNews says the asking price may have been $2 million. So far, the website just points to Audible.Edison Research's Tom Webster says, when naming your podcast, make a name for yourself. Literally. Don't use a common name that's going to be shared with a ton of other podcasts. https://tomwebster.substack.com/p/make-a-name-for-yourselfPodcast Heavyweights Tanner Campbell, Evo Terra, and Steve Stewart have written an open letter to Apple, calling for the removal of Apple Podcast reviews - they think it should be a heart/like system, so one bad review won't sink a show. https://medium.com/portlandpod/the-case-for-killing-reviews-in-apple-podcasts-66e735cf5f07Finally, Spotify is beginning to play with hybrid talk and music podcasts - that can get royalties to artists when their songs are played. So far the shows are unique to Spotify and have some kinks to work out. The first one is called "My 90's Playlist" produced by Sony Entertainment, and the first episode breaks down TLC's Classic "No Scrubs." Here's the release from Spotify: https://newsroom.spotify.com/2020-10-14/spotify-launches-new-audio-experience-combining-music-and-talk-content/?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-10-15 Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

I stepped out of my studio this week and recorded today's podcast on my "backup equipment," which is a Shure SM48 Microphone ($48) plugged into a Focusrite Scarlett Solo interface ($116.59). And I recorded it upstairs in my office. Truthfully, the sound will be similar to buying a quality USB mic like the Samson Q2U or Audio Technica ATR 2100x, which plugs directly into your USB without an interface. If you see a small drop in download numbers this week, it's because Apple Watch downloads no longer count. Those metrics have been pulled because they sometimes result in double downloads. Podcast guru James Cridland explains: https://adtech.podnews.net/update/apple-watch-os-downloads?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-10-06Joe Rogan says Spotify has not talked to him about censoring his content: https://heavy.com/news/joe-rogan-podcast-censorship/The trough of disillusionment is something that happens after you lose your initial "head of steam" when you start a podcast. Karen Burgess of Pacific Content explains how to power through it and get to the pleateau of productivity. https://blog.pacific-content.com/warning-trough-of-disillusionment-ahead-6bd93ac410d9Admittedly, one area I struggle with as an editor is "EQ" - or equalization. This 12 minute video does a great job of explaining the 5 major frequencies in human voice and what it's like to turn each up or down. https://youtu.be/ltKUTjjESeQGreat article from The Podcast Host on how to use the medium to establish yourself as an expert in your field: https://www.thepodcasthost.com/mindset/expert-in-your-field/Finally, Podcast Movement, the convention that got me into podcasting, is virtual this month, from October 19-29. If you've thought about going, but haven't because of costs, the ticket is cheaper this year, plus you don't have to worry about airfare or hotel. PLUS, you can save $50 with my referral code. https://podcastmovement.snoball.events/a/jon-gay Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

My best friend Bill Leaf would have turned 40 this weekend. Every year I post the story of what happened to him, and the eulogy I gave at his funeral. This year, I thought I would turn it into a podcast, and add in some thoughts from those that knew Bill very well. Happy Birthday Buddy.(00:12) Meet Bill(00:32) The Story(19:19) My Eulogy for Bill(25:52) Jay Kivela(26:49) Julie Leaf(28:16) Brian Drake(32:10) Bill's Shoutout from his favorite artist Bret Michaels(33:36) Matt DelSignore(35:00) Professor John Nicholson(35:47) Maria Leaf(40:08) Final Words from Bill himself(41:16) Closing Thoughts Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Editor's Note: Today's show was recorded Thursday afternoon, before news broke that President and Mrs. Trump tested positive for COVID-19.“That was a hot mess inside a dumpster fire inside a train wreck."CNN's Jake Tapper recapping Tuesday's Presidential DebateThe sh*tshow that was Tuesday night's debate may have finally gotten us to the change that I've been crying for since at least 2016. A mute button. If, in my radio days, I could manage to stop talking after 14 seconds when Katy Perry started singing, a person running for political office should be able to shut it after two full minutes. It sounds, as of this recording, that the Commission on Presidential Debates may finally give moderators that power. Nothing was accomplished Tuesday night, and for any undecided voters that still want to cast a ballot on issues, they are no closer to an answer now than they were at the beginning of the week. If you give each candidate an opportunity to talk, you might learn something.2020 might become, among many other things, the year of the mute button. Almost all of us have learned to use it on Zoom calls - when we need to cough, sneeze, drink, eat, etc. At least those with common courtesy do anyway. In a podcast, the mute button is extremely useful. For example, I recorded a podcast with a host and 4 panelists recently. The two things that made it flow very well are that the host called on each panelist individually, and that everyone muted their mic when not speaking. I had the speakers on 5 separate tracks, and the editing was very straightforward.Yesterday, I recorded a show with a client while my wife and I were dog-sitting. There was running, and barking, happening upstairs. I muted my mic when I wasn't speaking, and the edit was easy. Now, all things in moderation of course. If you're having a lively conversation in a podcast, there's no need to mute yourself in a frequent back-and-forth. But if you're going long periods of time without speaking, mute yourself. Your editor will thank you.Fascinating piece of news this week between the connection in "plosives" and COVID spread. Podcast editors often have to eliminate plosives, or the little puff of air that comes out of your mouth with hard consonants like P and T. (For a demo of this, hold your palm in front of your mouth and say the word "pizza.") You'll feel a little puff of air. Well those little puffs of air, or "mini jet streams" can carry COVID-19 particles. This was covered last night here in Detroit by Channel 4. https://www.clickondetroit.com/health/good-health/2020/09/30/how-chance-of-spreading-covid-19-through-air-changes-based-on-what-words-are-spoken/In other podcast news this week, Spotify is testing polls for podcasts - hosts can ask one question per show and have listeners weigh in: https://techcrunch.com/2020/09/23/spotify-adds-an-interactive-feature-for-podcasts-with-launch-of-polls/?guccounter=1Apple bought Scout FM, which turns podcasts into radio stations, and shut down Scout's apps on Apple and Android, possibly to use the technology in its own iOS application: https://www.forbes.com/sites/johnkoetsier/2020/09/25/heres-how-apple-could-use-new-podcasting-acquisition-scout-fm/#52b8875a7974Wondery, the company that produced Dr. Death and Dirty John, may be up for sale for the low, low price of $200 million. https://www.bloombergquint.com/business/podcast-company-wondery-explores-sale-for-at-least-200-million?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-09-28Podcast Movement Virtual's schedule is out. Ticket prices go up next week. https://virtual.podcastmovement.com/schedule/Locally, the Detroit Podcast Festival is October 16-18. https://www.detroitpodcastfest.com/As always, if you have questions about podcasting, or need help launching (or even tweaking) your show, feel free to reach out - [email protected] or on social at @JAGinDetroit. Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Earlier this month, I shot a couple of my "5 Minute Friday" podcasts on video. I wanted to see if "the juice was worth the squeeze." Long story short, it wasn't. Yes, I got a few views on YouTube, and a handful on IGTV, but as a small business owner and soloprenuer, it just wasn't worth it. Now, if you have the budget for a multi-camera full production team, absolutely go for it. Having a video component can't hurt you. But when you have to make decisions about time and resources, I don't think podcast video is worth it. First of all, video editing is much harder, more time consuming, and less forgiving than audio editing. If you've only got one camera, you can't edit out flubs - you either have to leave them in, have an awkward looking "jump cut," or "cover" your video with a graphic or something. And this takes time - time you probably don't have. So you're dealing with more time, larger files, and possibly a less professional looking product. Also, in our COVID world, we are all suffering from "Zoom fatigue." How many hours a day do you spend on video calls? How many times do you watch people struggle with their mute button? And how long do you have to stare at your screen? Take a walk, go for a drive, and bring something to listen to - give yourself a break. Also, audio is more intimate than video. You have to paint a picture in your listener's "mind's eye." Think about how connected you felt to your favorite radio morning show growing up. There's power in that.Bottom line, unless your show has a ton of resources, stick to the audio. Video is just not an efficient use of your time.This week's podcasting news:Amazon Music coming to Alexa - 70% of home smart speakers. Will this be the podcasting boost we've been waiting for in podcasting to smart speakers? https://podnews.net/article/amazon-music-podcasts?https://hotpodnews.com/insider-september-17-2020/Spotify lands Brene Brown: https://newsroom.spotify.com/2020-09-23/the-ever-curious-brene-brown-comes-to-spotify-with-two-exclusive-podcasts/?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-09-24Spotify rolls out notifications for new episodes, and civic engagement effort to increase voter turnout.Spotify employees want control over Rogan content: https://podcastbusinessjournal.com/report-spotify-employees-want-to-control-rogan-content/Apple's new iOS includes improvements to Apple Podcasts: https://podnews.net/article/ios14-apple-podcast-app-updates?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-09-23Mark Cuban to keynote Podcast Movement Virtual: https://newsroom.spotify.com/2020-09-23/the-ever-curious-brene-brown-comes-to-spotify-with-two-exclusive-podcasts/?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-09-24Power of the Podcast - Pod Save America's Get Mitch Or Die Trying Fund raised over $20 million since RBG's passing. https://secure.actblue.com/donate/getmitch?utm_source=podnews.n Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week's tip is to make sure your volume is consistent - throughout and between your episodes. I start by explaining why. Here's an explanation of LUFS. https://www.sweetwater.com/insync/what-is-lufs-and-why-should-i-care/Podcasting is Pandemic Proof, and Spotify is closing the gap with Apple, via Westwood One and PBJ: https://podcastbusinessjournal.com/westwood-reveals-more-great-news-for-podcasting/Speaking of Spotify, they believe podcast listening doesn't take away from music listening, since they have access to data on both: https://research.atspotify.com/do-podcasts-and-music-compete-with-one-another-understanding-music-and-podcast-listening-habits-do-podcasts-and-music-compete-with-one-another-understanding-music-and-podcast-listening-habits/?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-09-14Anchor claims they are cracking down on stolen podcasts: https://www.theverge.com/2020/9/14/21436713/anchor-copycat-podcasts-mike-mignano-spotify-uploadAmazon Music has launched podcasts in the US and UK and will be the exclusive home of Disgraceland.Evo Terra: https://podcastpontifications.substack.com/p/thats-not-a-podcasting-mistake-its?Chartable raises $2.25 million: https://techcrunch.com/2020/09/11/chartable-seed-funding/?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-09-14As always, if you have questions about podcasting, or need help launching (or even tweaking) your show, feel free to reach out - [email protected] or on social at JAGinDetroit. Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week, I talked to two different friends, in two different fields, who were unhappy and looking for a career change. And I was able to connect each of them with someone who had been in a similar situation and made a leap to improve their situation. I mention this not because I'm the world's greatest networker, but because it's easier than you think.The adverse events of 2020 have stressed all of us out in different ways. And while each of us is struggling with unique challenges, everywhere you look, our senses of humanity and empathy are coming through. Neighbors and co-workers are helping each other. And that means virtually too. If you need help, ask. And you'd be surprised who you might know through just one degree of separation. The joy of helping someone is something we could all use right around now. Onto podcasting news....A new Westwood One and Cumulus media survey shows how much more likely advertisers are to consider podcasts than just five years ago. TWO THIRDS of brands have discussed it. Also, podcast advertising represented only 15% of digital audio ad spending in 2019. By 2024, it will have almost doubled. https://www.westwoodone.com/2020/09/03/advertiser-perceptions-brand-agency-podcast-advertising-consideration-and-intention-soar-to-record-levels/?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-09-04Latest concepts in Spotify's bid to take over the world include the idea of saving podcast episodes, giving Spotify free users 30 minutes of streaming per day that won't use your WiFi or data plan, and an improved UI, for "car mode." https://www.xda-developers.com/spotify-local-group-sessions-auto-refresh-playlists-saving-podcast-episodes-30-minute-offline-listening-free/?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-09-08They've also launched an ad campaign called "Music, Meet Podcasts." https://www.thedrum.com/creative-works/project/spotify-music-meet-podcasts?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-09-08Meanwhile, Google Podcasts is working on something called "Your News Update" - basically trying to create a customized news playlist for you - but it's got a long way to go. https://www.wired.com/story/google-your-news-update-podcasts/They've also added a "Cast" button to the Android version of the Google Podcasts app, that will allow you to send content to your home devices. https://9to5google.com/2020/09/08/google-podcasts-now-playing-cast/?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-09-09Spotify may have Michelle Obama, but iHeartRadio has landed Bill Clinton, and maybe Hillary, as podcasts hosts. Personally, I think iHeart should be focused less on their app, and more on their content creation. https://deadline.com/2020/09/bill-clinton-podcast-iheartmedia-1234572549/Patreon gets a $1 billion valuation. https://rainnews.com/patreon-widely-used-by-podcasters-and-musicians-reaches-unicorn-status-with-fundraise/As always, if you have questions about podcasting, or need help launching (or even tweaking) your show, feel free to reach out - [email protected] or on social at JAGinDetroit. Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

My tip of the week: As we all navigate new technologies, be patient with people. It's served me well with clients, and I really appreciated being on the other side of it when hosting trivia last week.Forget the inverted pyramid, try the inverted trapezoid (via NPR): https://training.npr.org/2020/08/20/for-digital-flatten-the-pyramid-and-embrace-the-trapezoid/How much has the pandemic changed listening? Well, in some ways yes, others no. Great insight as always from Edison Research and Tom Webster https://www.edisonresearch.com/listening-during-quarantine-a-share-of-ear-report/?Spotify lists their Michelle Obama podcast as tops in the world, and they appear to have added her friends Harry and Megan - yes, that Harry and Megan. But some controversy for the company this week. Joe Budden is leaving the platform after saying they treated him horribly. https://variety.com/2020/digital/news/joe-budden-podcast-spotify-deal-exclusive-exit-1234750199/And Joe Rogan's show has finally debuted on Spotify - with some of the more controversial episodes missing, including interviews with Alex Jones from InfoWars and others. Yikes.James Cridland's PodNews now has an additional newsletter about AdTech, called $ounds Profitable: https://adtech.podnews.net/International Podcast Day is September 30th. https://internationalpodcastday.com/As always, if you have questions about podcasting, or need help launching (or even tweaking) your show, feel free to reach out - [email protected] or on social at JAGinDetroit. Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Last week, I blocked my calendar and was hoping for a summer getaway with my wife and dog. Well, Rona made that less appealing, and my wife ended up having some work commitments anyway. So I decided to turn the week into a "staycation." Yes, I made Costco runs and other miscellaneous house stuff, but I really set out to spend some time looking "under the hood" of podcasting and honing my craft. I did two things. I watched a bunch of videos from this month's Podfest Global Summit - turns out buying the ticket to have all the recordings on demand was money well spent. I also joined the Podcast Editor Academy - the new venture from the Podcast Editors Club Facebook community I'm in. There's a wealth of current and archived knowledge there. And I also took a class on the high-end editing software I use, Izotope RX 7, from YaYa Podcasting. Huge thanks to people like Steve Stewart, Chris Curran, Mark Deal, Chris Krimitsos, and Carrie Caufield Arick.Side note for audio geeks - I bought several "Plugins" for Adobe Audition to adds some processing and bells and whistles to audio - Audio Engineer Chris Curran's Top 10 list of audio plugins is a great read.Podcast host Buzzsprout has a great article on how to use music in podcasts. (Spoiler: You still can't use copyrighted music, even for a few seconds, even for a review). https://www.buzzsprout.com/blog/free-music-for-podcastsSpotify's charge into the podcasting world is affecting a shift from downloads to streaming, and making ad impressions easier to measure: https://www.adexchanger.com/digital-audio-radio/podcast-measurement-is-finally-improving-as-the-landscape-consolidates/?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-08-18If you have a Call To Action (CTA) in your podcast , consider simplifying how many things you are asking of listeners, and make sure you illustrate the benefit for them. I also believe they should go at the end of the show, not the beginning. If you're going to ask for something, do it AFTER you've provided valuable content. https://medium.com/@awrd/why-podcast-calls-to-action-matter-43cffbfcaa9eSpotify is in some hot water over Anchor, the free podcast host they now own. Apparently Anchor was "stealing" feeds of podcasts from other hosts and posting them in their own feeds. Spotify has since apologized and taken them down - but it exposes a major flaw in protecting the intellectual property of podcasters: https://digiday.com/media/game-of-whack-a-mole-spotify-has-a-counterfeit-podcast-problem/?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-08-24I highly, highly recommend my friend Matt Cundill's Sound Off Podcast episode with maybe the smartest guy in all of podcast research -Tom Webster of Edison Research. I had so many takeaways from this interview - including the future for smaller and medium podcasters, radio's place in the space, and the idea to try YouTube for my podcast - just for starters. You'll find the episode here: https://www.soundoffpodcast.com/post/tom-websterFinally, Podcast Movement's virtual event this October will be hosted on a platform called Swapcard - hope to see you there. Here's the announcement. https://podcastmovement.com/events/learn-more-about-our-pm-virtual-platform-plus-prices-go-up-tonight/As always, if you have questions about podcasting, or need help launching (or even tweaking) your show, feel free to reach out - [email protected] or on social at JAGinDetroit. Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It's been 10 days since our last episode, and life's been busy - with some large projects and other things that have come up. Just checking in to give you a quick update - I'll be out of the studio all next week, and hope to come back refreshed and maybe with some show tweaks - perhaps less interviews and more quick industry updates. In the meantime, here's a look at this week's podcasting headlines:Amazon adding podcasts soon to Audible and Amazon Music. But there may be some questions around content restrictions in its terms of service. https://podnews.net/article/podcast-hosts-tos?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-08-13I counsel clients to not use Anchor, for many reasons. James Cridland of Podnews takes an impartial look at it: https://podnews.net/article/anchor-host-differences?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-08-04Edison Research has the Top 30 podcasts in a comprehensive ranking: https://www.edisonresearch.com/the-top-30-u-s-podcasts-according-to-the-podcast-consumer-tracker/Locally, tickets are now on sale for the Detroit Podcast Conference: https://www.detroitpodcastfest.com/2020 Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Podfest Global Summit runs August 10-15, with a preview underway this week. Chief Creative Officer Chris Krimitsos was able to take 15 minutes with us to preview the event - which is on pace to break a Guinness World Record.After a brief history lesson on Podfest, Chris shares how the in-person event was just barely able to happen before COVID-19 took over earlier this year. From there, the team was full-speed ahead in planning the online conference this month.The event will feature multiple tracks covering different areas of podcasting, but will also have tracks in Mandarin, Chinese, and more. Chris explains the laborious process of finding various podcasting experts, vetting them, and meeting with each of them individually to ensure excellent content for the summit. Beyond that, Podfest will encourage socialization between attendees on the Whova app- this isn't just another Zoom call. (Am I muted? Can you see my screen?)Podfest is one of the premiere events in the podcasting industry, and you can learn more about the global summit here:https://podfestexpo.com/Learn more about JAG in Detroit at https://jagindetroit.com/ Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Yesterday, I listened to the Michelle Obama Podcast, a Spotify exclusive. Full disclosure, I love the Obamas (and miss them). Overall, I thought Episode 1 was good. I think a few more ums could have been deleted, but that's a matter of personal preference (and hot debate), and the two interrupted each other for a bit, and there were a few times I wasn't sure who was interviewing who. But in a good marriage, you finish each other's sentences. I'm sure it would be similar if I did a show with my wife - if I could ever get her near a microphone.In the larger picture, the show featured music from Stevie Wonder, and if I'm not mistaken, a Beyonce beat was in the trailer. I'd be curious to see if this was a function of Spotify, the Obamas, or both. It would be nice to get to a point where that was available for more content creators.In terms of substance, I did enjoy the interview. Obviously, if you're Michelle Obama, your first guest is probably a no-brainer. I find Barack and Michelle to both be very engaging speakers, and I was drawn in to their stories about how their backgrounds shaped their value systems. And, I'll be honest, there were a few not-so-subtle digs at Mr. Obama's successor, which I smirked at.Other podcasting news this week, via Podnews, Podcast Business Journal, and PodMov Daily:Spotify is making memes of podcasts that link back to the show. They are called "Visual Quote Cards." https://www.theverge.com/2020/7/29/21346490/spotify-visual-quote-michelle-obama-podcast?vgo_ee=MYFFchsNQquCI9pBrYt34RwUnRnlmwiuCIJkd9A7F3A%3DThere's a report that people are working around Spotify's music licensing restrictions by uploading their content as a podcast, which has much less oversight: https://www.documentjournal.com/2020/07/cant-find-your-favorite-song-on-spotify-check-the-podcast-section/?vgo_ee=MYFFchsNQquCI9pBrYt34RwUnRnlmwiuCIJkd9A7F3A%3DSpotify's earning's call had a lot of info about revenue and podcasts, claiming they have more podcasts than Apple, among other things. https://news.alphastreet.com/spotify-technology-spot-q2-2020-earnings-call-transcript/?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-07-30Descript uses "Overdub" technology: https://blog.descript.com/descript-pro-overdub-and-more/?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-07-29Of note to car enthusiasts (we are in Detroit after all): Ford is launching a 8 episode podcast about the story behind bringing back the Bronco. https://podcastbusinessjournal.com/podcast-part-of-fords-bronco-plan/ Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Stacey Simms is all about connections and community. We met through the alumni association of our college radio station, and since her son's diagnosis of Type 1 Diabetes, she has formed an incredible community of patients and caregivers around this disease. This includes her podcast, Diabetes Connections, and her book The World's Worst Diabetes Mom.We spend a couple minutes on diabetes itself, including Stacey explaining some common misconceptions about the disease.Her podcast has connected her with everyone from diabetic celebrities to major drug companies, and she tells a great story of asking the head of Eli Lily, on a conference call, to drop the price of insulin.As a dyed-in-the-wool reporter, Stacey knew she needed an angle and focus for her podcast - and that's why she spends a lot of time focusing on diabetes news, even if that's not how the first few episodes went.Then, we delve into how Stacey started selling ads on her podcast. She stresses the importance of selling based on shows, not download numbers, as those metrics can vary wildly. Also, in the medical field, there are a number of rules that must be adhered to when it comes to advertising copy. Stacey explains how she navigates each of these, and also how important it is to be transparent about sponsorship dollars and what parts of the show are paid for.We zoom out, and I ask Stacey for some general advice about how -and when - to seek out advertisers for your podcast.Finally, I ask Stacey for advice for other diabetes parents.Resources:Diabetes Connections Website: https://diabetes-connections.com/Stacey's Book: https://diabetes-connections.com/product/the-worlds-worst-diabetes-mom/Stacey on Twitter: https://twitter.com/staceysimmsStacey on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/staceysimms/Jon Gay / JAG in Detroit Website: http://jagindetroit.com/JAG on Twitter: https://twitter.com/jagindetroitJAG on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jagindetroit/ Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

My piece of advice this week - do not use copyrighted music in your podcast. In a recent Facebook post in a Podcast Movement Group, Todd Cochrane of Blubrry posted the following on Thursday in the Podcast Movement Facebook group:At Blubrry Podcasting we have seen more RIAA takedown notices over the past week than we have seen in the past 2 years combined. Music owners are waking up to the fact that unscrupulous podcasters have been putting full tracks of music in there shows as if they where a radio station. Some of the takedowns are against indie podcasters! Some are actual radio stations that have not taken music out of their podcast that they broadcast over the air. You can be sure the RIAA will start accessing penalties on podcasters as they have in the past. While I am not allowed to say exactly how much Podcasters have already settled with labels for in excess of 100k for copyright violations.Speaking of Podcast Movement, they finally decided to scrap this year's in person conference. If you bought at ticket, you can either get a refund, or apply it to next year's conference in Nashville. If you do THAT, as a thank you, you'll get free admission to this year's virtual conference in October. Here's their official announcement: https://podcastmovement.com/events/pm20-is-officially-canceled-but-were-still-getting-together-in-2020/?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-07-22A couple of news pieces from Spotify - their Michelle Obama podcast launches Wednesday. https://podnews.net/press-release/michelle-obama?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-07-17Also, Spotify is playing with video podcasts: https://newsroom.spotify.com/2020-07-21/spotify-fans-can-better-connect-to-creators-with-new-video-podcasts/?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-07-22The New York Times has bought Serial, the company behind what was the "gateway" podcast for so many of us. https://www.nytco.com/press/serial-productions/?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-07-23Edison Research's Tom Webster says radio isn't dying, but a market like Savannah, Georgia and its 52 radio stations might be better served to have...say, 3. https://tomwebster.substack.com/p/tower-defense-burning-boats-and-carrotWant help with your podcast? Find me on social at JAGinDetroit or online at https://jagindetroit.com/ Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today I'm joined by podcast industry royalty - Mr. Rob Greenlee. He's incredibly well known for his work in the space, and he now chairs The Podcast Academy.We start by taking stock of the podcast industry as a whole. Rob shares his perspective on where the podcast industry was and where it has come. Also, the bloom is off the rose for social media, which creates an opportunity for podcasting.We also talk about using video in podcasting. We recorded the interview over Squadcast, so we could see each other, but the video wasn't recorded. What about radio's relationship with podcasting? There's a difference between repurposing a morning show and creating unique content. And with so many large companies (radio and otherwise) jumping in to podcasting, is there still room for the independent podcaster? Maybe so, as 50% of podcast listening is to independent shows.Rob and I explore the different revenue models of podcasting and what they may look like going forward, and finally we discuss the impact COVID-19 has had on the space.In the second half of our interview, we talk about The Podcast Academy - how it was formed, why it was formed, and the well known organizations the Academy is modeled on.While The Podcast Academy aims to recognize outstanding work in the field, it is also focused on education, mentoring podcasters, and moving the industry forward.The Podcast Academy will serve the international community, not just the United States. And there will be lots of educational materials - white papers, mentorship programs, webinars, and more - all vetted by the industry's best to make ensure quality.I had to ask Rob about the initial entry requirement of "letters of recommendation" - where the idea came from and why it was later scrapped.Rob also clarifies the role of large corporations - and their membership but not necessarily sponsorship - there's room for podcasters of all sizes.Finally, I ask Rob to make his "elevator pitch" for membership into The Podcast Academy. After hearing it, I'll be signing up.Resources:The Podcast Academy Website: https://www.thepodcastacademy.com/JAG in Detroit Website:https://jagindetroit.com/ Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ben Hamilton, one of my early mentors in radio, taught me that doing a show is like driving a racecar. Do all your work in the pit. Once the race starts, all you have to do is drive.Youtube listening is down, though Youtube Music will replace Google Play Music to compete with Spotify: https://www.edisonresearch.com/youtube-listening-decreases-in-2020/?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-07-10Podthon 20 is this weekend, a virtual summit for podcasters: https://podthon.com/IAB: Podcast advertising revenue up to a surprising $700m in 2019, but won't not $1 billion as expected in 2020 due to Covid. https://www.iab.com/insights/iab-u-s-podcast-advertising-revenue-study-fy-2019-2020-covid-19-impact/?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-07-14The deal SiriusXM to buy Stitcher is done - $325m was the final price tag.Anti-Semitic Podcast comments cost Nick Cannon his gig: https://podcastbusinessjournal.com/podcast-comments-cost-cannon-his-tv-job/Spotify now avail in 13 more countries, including Russia (just in time for another presidential election). But only music, not podcasts. I doubt Putin wants Joe Rogan flapping his gums over there. https://newsroom.spotify.com/2020-07-14/spotify-is-now-available-in-russia-croatia-ukraine-and-10-other-european-markets/?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-07-15This Tuesday, I'll be chatting with Rob Greenlee, VP of Content and Partnerships at Libsyn, and chair of The Podcast Academy.As always, if you need help launching or producing your podcast, you can always reach me at https://jagindetroit.com/Or send me an email - [email protected] find me on your favorite social media platform at JAGinDetroit.Finally, thanks to the Birmingham Bloomfield Chamber of Commerce for allowing me to do a 30 minute webinar on "Podcasting 101." You can watch it here: https://jagindetroit.com/summer-2020-podcasting-webinar/ Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Brian Drake is quickly making a name for himself as the host of the Fantasy Football Hustle podcast and writer for Fighting Chance Fantasy.Today we cover his journey into podcasting, from "the worst job in America" (radio sales) to pairing up with his co-host, Dwain McFarland. We talk about networking and connecting through Twitter, and Brian's "Hustle" moment that made all the difference.Brian talks about joining a podcast network and what that's meant to the show, and why he finds the podcast space so much more hospitable than the current radio landscape.Specific to 2020, I ask Brian about the challenges of doing a Fantasy Football podcast when there's so much uncertainty around the upcoming season, and he explains the idea of a "Covid IR spot" on team rosters in home leagues. And I'd be remiss if I didn't ask him to make some NFL predictions, you know, assuming there's a season (which he believes there will be).What's a Scott Fish Bowl? Turns out it's an exclusive invite-only fantasy league where someone made a VERY big mistake last Monday shortly before we recorded this interview.Finally, we mention our late mutual friend, Bill Leaf, who was killed by a drunk driver in January, 2006. Brian talks about the kickball tournament that raises money for a good cause and helps keep Bill's memory alive.Resources:Bill Leaf Kickball Story: https://www.dropbox.com/s/p7n4ia0t33ivgmj/Leaf%20Hysterical%20Kickball%20Story.mp3?dl=0Fantasy Football Hustle on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fantasy-football-hustle/id1441215074?ign-mpt=uo%3D4Fantasy Football Hustle Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4MMH5ey143zBBxoXjUOiAp?si=eKVSymxUTJKicQFCYzJMugFantasy Football Hustle on Twitter: https://twitter.com/FFHustleFantasy Football Hustle on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ffhustle/Fantasy Football Hustle YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSveOLm03O31Xm0KY6J5XzgBrian Drake on Twitter: https://twitter.com/DrakeFantasyJAG in Detroit Podcasts website: https://jagindetroit.com/ Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today's tip: Give yourself plenty of lead time to get your podcast mic - there's a SHORTAGE!For starters, I recommend a dynamic mic with a USB connection, like:Samson Q2U: http://www.samsontech.com/samson/products/microphones/usb-microphones/q2u/Audio Technica ATR-2100x https://www.audio-technica.com/cms/wired_mics/55eee3e0b0d5a960/index.htmlIf you strike out on Amazon, check outSweetwater: https://www.sweetwater.com/B&H: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/TV Owner E.W. Scripps has a buyer for Stitcher - it's SiriusXM (who recently bought Simplecast) - looks like we might have another big player in the space. https://podcastbusinessjournal.com/siriusxm-to-purchase-stitcher-for-300-million/Omnicom Media Group will invest $20 million in Spotify advertising. It's a drop in the bucket compared to their overall ad budget, but it shows people are taking Spotify as an advertising venue seriously. https://podcastbusinessjournal.com/spotify-announces-20-million-ad-partnership-with-omnicom/Podcast Movement has a virtual event next week, called "Shift." https://podcastmovement.com/events/shift-sessions-announcement/?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-07-09James Cridland of PodNews says ID3 tags on your show's final MP3 - that's the Metadata in Adobe Audition - are not necessary for SEO. https://podnews.net/article/id3-tags-podcast-search-engine-optimisation-seo?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-07-09JAG in Detroit Website with contact info: http://www.jagindetroit.com/ Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

I first came across the name Britany Felix in the Podcast Editors Club Facebook group. Britany was someone who always had a thoughtful answer for questions posed to the group. We actually met in person last summer in Orlando at Podcast Movement and have interacted much more lately on social media. I'm thrilled to have her as today's guest.Britany takes me through a journey I know all too well -getting tired of a corporate job and discovering podcasting, podcast consulting, and podcast editing. And she doesn't beat around the bush when it comes to discussing her transition.As her business grew, Britany learned that there were certain types of people - and personalities - she worked best with. This led her to carving out a niche for herself in creating podcasts for various coaches.We take a deep dive into the tough moments and decisions that often need to be made when owning your own podcasting business - including when you have to turn money away. (Spoiler: its never easy.)We also discuss travel, how COVID-19 has affected the podcasting space, and preview the upcoming virtual Podfest event this August.Resources:Britany Felix's Website: https://www.podcastingforcoaches.com/Podfest Website: https://podfestexpo.com/JAG in Detroit Website: https://jagindetroit.com/ Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Just because you have the tools in front of you doesn't mean you need to use them - a TV example reminded me of this. I start by explaining. Related Family Guy Clip: Court TV is back- makes sense they'd do a true crime companion podcast - this one focuses on the Menendez brothers - out on Tuesdays (Via Podcast Business Journal): https://podcastbusinessjournal.com/court-tv-joins-the-podcasting-ranks/Zoom offering encryption to ALL users, not just paid ones. Still, don't use them for your podcast. https://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2020/06/victory-zoom-will-offer-end-end-encryption-all-its-users?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-06-25A deeper explanation on what Zoom does to podcast audio in this past Tuesday's episode with Tom Kelly: https://link.chtbl.com/jagtomkellyEW Scripps is trying to sell Stitcher (via Podnews): https://www.theinformation.com/articles/scripps-exploring-sale-of-podcast-service-stitcher?shared=0c91d9a9f6b26eb1&utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net%3A2020-06-25Update on the Podcast Academy: Rob Greenlee says letters of recommendations will no longer be required, just references: https://www.thepodcastacademy.com/general/register_member_type.aspVoxnest has a 2020 midyear report, "The State of The Podcast Universe." It's a free download: https://blog.voxnest.com/2020-mid-year-podcast-industry-report/One of the takeaways, per James Cridland of Podnews, is Spotify making more headway against Apple. He breaks it down here: https://podnews.net/article/spotify-bigger-than-apple?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-07-02Speaking of Spotify, they are working on making podcast clips/quotes shareable.Congrats to ESPN's senior director of digital audio and friend of the pod, Pete Gianseni - despite there being no sports, ESPN's podcasts are booming - over 44 million plays in June. They're up 11% month over month - credit to Pete and his team. Here's a link to our conversation from a few months ago: https://link.chtbl.com/JAGPeteGAnd finally, our friends at Podcast Movement are launching Podcast Movement University. They do a great job with the in-person conference every year, so I'm excited to learn more about this latest endeavor: https://podcastmovement.com/events/podcast-movement-university-launches-join-us-for-shift-on-july-14/?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-07-02JAG in Detroit Website with contact info: http://www.jagindetroit.com/ Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Tom Kelly owns Clean Cut Audio, where he brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help podcasters and bands alike create the best sound possible.In today's episode we covered a wide range of topics and listener questions about all things audio.We started by talking about the podcasting mecca that Denver has become, then we got into some basic production knowledge that podcasters should be aware of, including "addition by subtraction" when it comes to equalizing your track.We also hit on why Zoom is a great collaboration tool, but terrible for podcasts. This led into a very basic discussion on the different frequencies in the human voice, and why each is important. Tom answers some questions about LUFS, condenser vs dynamic microphones, and third party AI tools, including Levelator, Auphonic, and Izotope's suite of products.Finally, Tom talks about why he's all about giving out free advice to podcasters, and why it's so important to him.Resources:Clean Cut Audio Website: https://www.cleancutaudio.com/Clean Cut Audio Podcast: https://www.cleancutaudio.com/podcastClean Cut Audio YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/cleancutaudioTom on Twitter: https://twitter.com/cleancutaudioEmail Tom: [email protected] in Detroit Website: http://www.jagindetroit.com/ Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

My lesson learned this week is to take a break. It's OK. That's why I'm recording this on Wednesday instead of Thursday. My wife and I are taking a personal day on Thursday.Podcast Academy opens. Membership is $50 and requires two letters of recommendation: https://www.thepodcastacademy.com/news/513734/The-Podcast-Academy-Membership-Opens.htm?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-06-22Pandora with analytics. I tried. No luck on one I submitted in September, but I'll keep you posted.https://blog.pandora.com/us/pandora-for-podcasters-introduces-new-podcast-analytics-features-for-creators/?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-06-19Upcoming iOS 14 includes Apple Podcast profiles, suggestions, and ability to see what your friends are listening to: https://9to5mac.com/2020/06/18/exclusive-ios-14-to-include-overhauled-podcasts-app-with-for-you-bonus-content-more/?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-06-19Twitter to start allowing iOS users to add short audio clips. You'll see it when you compose a tweet. https://www.theverge.com/2020/6/17/21294481/twitter-audio-tweets-now-available-iphone-iosGoogle Assistant to include podcasts: https://9to5google.com/2020/06/22/assistant-snapshot-podcasts-recipe/?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-06-23Spotify signs Warner Brothers and the DC Universe.https://newsroom.spotify.com/2020-06-18/warner-bros-is-bringing-the-dc-super-heroes-and-super-villains-to-spotify-as-an-exclusive-series-of-podcasts/Spotify testing in-app interactive ads: https://www.spotifyforbrands.com/en-US/news/spotify-introduces-in-app-offers-for-podcast-ads?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-06-23Wondery has a new app - ostensibly to drive subscriptions: https://variety.com/2020/digital/news/wondery-app-podcast-subscription-1234646024/amp/?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-06-24 Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Steve Stewart runs the "Podcast Editors Club" Facebook group, with over 5,000 members. Steve joins me today to talk about how he got into podcast editing, and finding a niche in the financial sector, turning podcasting into a full time gig in just six months.I asked him to provide advice for novice podcast editors as well as more experienced ones, and some common themes emerged.We also talked about knowing your worth and not being afraid to charge accordingly, provided you super-serve your clients.Steve talked about his partnership with Mark Deal, to create the first ever Podcast Editors Conference ahead of Podfest in Orlando this year. Now, they are launching the Podcast Editors Academy.Oh yeah, we talk a little bit about editing podcasts, too.Resources:Podcast Editors' Club on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/podcasteditors/Podcast Editors Academy: https://www.podcasteditoracademy.com/Podcast Editors' Conference (from earlier in 2020): https://podcasteditorsconference.com/Steve Stewart Contact info: https://stevestewart.me/JAG in Detroit Website: https://jagindetroit.com/Jon Gay "JAG" email: [email protected] Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Usually my Tuesday episodes are 30 minute interviews. This week's was an hour. I explain my thought process here.Black podcasting awards: https://blackpodawards.com/?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=podnews.net%3A2020-06-15Don Lemon's new podcast about the racial divide in America is called "Silence is not an option."Spotify's venture into podcasting, as featured on CNN: https://www.cnn.com/2020/06/15/media/spotify-podcasts-risk-takers/index.htmlDon't neglect TuneIn, as their download numbers may be 8 times higher than you thought, says PodNews: https://podnews.net/article/eight-times-bigger-podcast-user-agents?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-06-16Here's a link to add your podcast if you haven't yet. https://help.tunein.com/contact/add-podcast-S19TR3SdfReuters, the wire service, has a new platform that gives podcasters access to half a million of their news clips to use in their show. Here's the press release: https://podnews.net/press-release/reuters-launches-audio-services?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-06-17Podcast listening at home jumped from 44% to 70% during the pandemic, no surprise there: https://www.edisonresearch.com/share-of-time-spent-listening-to-audio-at-home-in-the-u-s-increases-44-during-covid-19-disruption/?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-06-17Sirius XM has bought Simplecast - my preferred hosting platform (disclaimer: I am a Simplecast referral partner). It shows me that yet another big media company wants in, and that I chose a desirable platform. SiriusXM already owns Pandora and ad service Adswizz, but they promise not to place ads in your show unless you want them.Finally, Joe Rogan is not the only big name to land a deal with Spotify. Kim Kardashian West just signed a contract with them as well. I mention this so I can put both names in my show notes, and hopefully help my SEO. Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

For decades, Mistress Carrie entertained - and bonded with - the masses on legendary Boston rock station WAAF. Earlier this year, the station was sold, ending its 50 year run on the air. Carrie takes us behind the scenes of WAAF - the planned relaunch that never happened - and her journey leveraging her iconic brand as the "Baddest Bitch in Boston" to pivot to podcasting.We talk about the advent of radio's "Portable People Meter" and how it skewed ratings away from rock stations, moving eventually to the final days of WAAF. Carrie talks about how grateful she is to have been able to send the station off and say goodbye, unlike so many other radio folks who don't get the chance.In the interim between her radio and podcasting careers, Mistress Carrie started a series of Facebook live videos, called "Cocktails in the War Room." It was hugely successful, allowed her to keep her brand top of mind, and even generated a significant amount of money (via t-shirts) to feed local veterans during the pandemic.And speaking of veterans, Carrie told us about becoming an embedded reporter (a rarity for music DJ's) with New England troops in Iraq and Afghanistan.Finally, we close with her experience leveraging her brand and developing her new podcast.Links:The Mistress Carrie Podcast: https://mistresscarriepodcast.simplecast.com/WAAF's Final Hour On Air: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i9nWJOoz5kwGeneration Kill on HBO: https://www.hbo.com/generation-killMistress Carrie on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mistresscarriewaaf/Mistress Carrie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mistresscarriewaaf/Mistress Carrie on Twitter: https://twitter.com/MistressCarrieJAG in Detroit Podcasts Website: https://jagindetroit.com/JAG on Twitter: https://twitter.com/JAGinDetroitJAG on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JAGinDetroit/ Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

James Cridland of Podnews had a great write-up yesterday on the debate around podcast transcripts: https://podnews.net/article/podcast-transcripts-why-and-when?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-06-11A new subscription service called Podhero lets you pay then divvy up the money among podcasts you listen to: https://medium.com/podhero/meet-podhero-the-easiest-way-to-support-podcast-creators-5f17f536e7d8Here's how to claim your show: https://podhero.com/dashboard/signup/?next=/dashboard/claim/search/%3Futm_source%3Dpodnews.net%26utm_medium%3Demail%26utm_campaign%3Dpodnews.net%3A2020-06-05Zoom stock is through the roof: https://www.marketwatch.com/story/zoom-video-earnings-and-sales-blow-away-expectations-stock-rises-toward-more-records-2020-06-02?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-06-05Podcasts can be a break from screen time: https://musebycl.io/musings/value-podcasts-era-zoom-fatigue?utm_source=podnews.net&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=podnews.net:2020-06-08Podcasts doubling every year: https://blog.pex.com/podcast-growth-doubles-every-year-over-7-million-hours-uploaded-in-2019-acbcba8c4a70 Find jag on social media @JAGPodcastProductions or online at JAGPodcastProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.