The How To Podcast Series - Podcast Co-Hosts, Practical Podcasting Tips, and Podcast Community

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E471 - We learn Italian step by step - Impariamo l'italiano piano piano with Co-Host Myra Rhodes Sep 26, 2025

Show notes

Episode 471 - We learn Italian step by step - Impariamo l'italiano piano piano with Co-Host Myra Rhodes

Impariamo l’italiano piano piano is a story-based podcast designed for B1 to B2 Italian language learners who want to immerse themselves in engaging narratives while strengthening their grammar and vocabulary. Novices are welcome too—because we take everything piano piano, one gentle step at a time.

Your host Myra—an instructional designer and passionate language learner who understands the challenges of mastering Italian as an adult—is joined by Antonio, a familiar voice you’ll get to know throughout the episodes. Together, they guide you piano piano, step by step, toward greater fluency.
Each episode unfolds through an ongoing story, allowing you to experience Italian in context, naturally reinforcing key structures like the imperfetto, passato prossimo, and congiuntivo. You’ll also get guided practice, interactive exercises, and cultural insights to help you think, speak, and write in Italian with more confidence.
With the help of Antonio, a familiar voice you’ll get to know throughout the episodes, your host Myra is an instructional designer and passionate language learner who understands the challenges of mastering Italian as an adult. She has designed this podcast to help learners like you take their skills to the next level—piano piano, step by step.https://podnews.net/podcast/izb6n

https://www.welearnitalianstepbystep.com/

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https://howtopodcast.ca/

E470 - Podcast Coversations over Interviews, Process Driven Podcasting and Organizing Multiple Shows with Co-Host - Craig Constatine Sep 24, 2025

Show notes

Episode 470 - Podcast Coversations over Interviews, Process Driven Podcasting and Organizing Multiple Shows with Co-Host - Craig Constatine

Hello I’m Craig Constantine,

I invite you to cultivate a meaningful life—through presence, not pursuit.

I work to inspire people to live meaningfully. I offer practices and facilitate experiences for those drawn to live with intention. I bring clarity, curiosity, and empathy to every step of that process.

Craig's Podcasts:

Open + CuriousYou talk with others every day, but how often do you intentionally practice the art of conversation? By sharing my thinking, I hope to ignite your passion for creating your own great conversations.

https://openandcurious.org/Little Box of Qutoes

A long long time ago I began collecting inspirational quotes and aphorisms which became my collection of quotes.https://constantine.name/tag/little-box-of-quotes/

Movers Mindset is dedicated to exploring the motivations behind movement and its fundamental place in society. Our mission is to create and share insightful conversations that inspire and enlighten our audience.

In the Movers Mindset podcast, Craig Constantine talks with movement enthusiasts to learn who they are, what they do, and why they do it. Each conversation feeds his insatiable curiosity, but we share them to turn on a light for someone else, to inspire them, or to give them their next question.

https://moversmindset.com/

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https://craigconstantine.com/

Book mentioned:

https://jessicaabel.com/out-on-the-wire/

https://jessicaabel.com/out-on-the-wire-podcast/

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https://howtopodcast.ca/

E469 - Don't wait until the finish line to tell someone about your race - Build Your Podcast in Public Sep 22, 2025

Show notes

Episode 469 - Don't wait until the finish line to tell someone about your race - Build Your Podcast in Public

"Don't wait until the finish line to tell someone about your race."
— David Campbell

This episode is a reminder about the importance of sharing your journey, not just your results. It encourages openness, vulnerability, and the value of bringing others along for the ride—whether in podcasting, content creation, or life in general.

Share the Process, Not Just the Product

Build anticipation: Letting your audience in on your creative process builds excitement and investment. When you share your struggles, wins, and lessons as they happen, listeners feel like part of your story.

Foster connection: Audiences relate more deeply when they see the real, unpolished journey. Sharing behind-the-scenes moments, doubts, and milestones makes your content more authentic and relatable.

Encourage feedback: Early sharing invites feedback and ideas, helping you improve your work before it's finished.Grow Your Community Along the Way

Involve your audience: Ask for input, suggestions, or even collaboration. This not only strengthens your community but also creates a sense of shared ownership in your project.
Celebrate small wins: Don’t wait for the “big launch” or final product—celebrate progress and milestones with your listeners.

3. Avoid Missed Opportunities

Don’t hide your journey: Waiting until everything is perfect or complete may mean missing out on valuable connections, support, and opportunities that could have shaped your path.
Inspire others: Sharing your race as you run it can inspire others to start their own, or to keep going when they hit obstacles.

This philosophy extends beyond podcasting:

In leadership: Share your vision and progress with your team, not just the end results.
In personal growth: Let friends and family know about your goals and struggles, so they can support and encourage you.
In entrepreneurship: Building in public helps attract customers, mentors, and collaborators before your product is finished.

Key Takeaways

Transparency breeds trust and engagement.
The journey is as valuable as the destination.
Sharing early and often creates opportunities for growth, connection, and impact.

In podcasting, content creation, and life, don’t wait until you cross the finish line—invite others to run the race with you, every step of the way.

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https://howtopodcast.ca/

E468 - Are Podcast Pre-Interview Chats A Stupid Waste of Time or Are They the Secret to A Better Interview Sep 19, 2025

Show notes

Episode 468 - Are Podcast Pre-Interview Chats A Stupid Waste of Time or Are They the Secret to A Better Interview

Dave tackles the often-debated topic of pre-interviews in podcasting. Here’s a high-level overview of the major themes and takeaways from this episode:

Dave sets the scene: It’s late August 2025. Inspired by a recent critique from another podcaster who “let it fly” against the practice of pre-interviews, Dave explores both sides of the debate.
The controversy: Dave shares how one podcaster harshly criticized anyone who conducts pre-interviews—almost to the point of “gatekeeping.” He expresses concern for this mindset, emphasizing that there is never just one way to podcast.
Dave's perspective: As a longtime advocate for pre-interviews, Dave values them as a tool for building rapport and preparation. He explains that his process involves meeting guests twice—first for a 20-minute pre-interview, then again for the formal recording. He believes this makes for a more organized and engaging podcast, which his audience appreciates.
The challenges: Dave agrees that pre-interviews are a substantial time commitment, both for the host and the guest. He acknowledges the criticisms—especially from those who don't edit or deeply prepare their shows. Still, he observes that shows without pre-interviews sometimes struggle with unstructured conversations and disengaged guests.
Reevaluating the process: With experience from working with PR agencies on his author-focused podcast, Dave recognizes that not every guest needs a pre-interview—especially seasoned broadcasters. He’s considering relaxing his usual requirement, taking inspiration (but not the harsh tone) from those who skip pre-chats entirely.
Listener engagement: Dave turns to his audience, inviting them to share how they handle guest preparation:
- Do you do pre-interviews at all?
- Are they scheduled on a different day, or just a quick chat before recording?
- Is the meeting purely spontaneous with no pre-chat?
- Why do you do it your way, and how has that worked for you?
Openness and feedback: Dave encourages a spirit of learning and community. He makes it clear that podcasting is not one-size-fits-all: what works for one may not work for another, and respectful debate/feedback only makes the community stronger.
Opportunities to connect: Listeners are encouraged to share their thoughts and show links via howtopodcast.ca or the show's SpeakPipe voice message system. Dave wants to feature listener feedback and podcast recommendations in future episodes.

There is no universal right way to podcast.
Pre-interviews can add value, structure, and relationship-building—but they're not always necessary.
It's vital to respect diverse methods and avoid judging others’ choices.
Open communication and willingness to adjust your process benefit both the host and guests.
Dave values listener feedback as a way to learn and shape future episodes.

Share how you handle guest prep on your podcast!
Leave a voice message at howtopodcast.ca to join the conversation.
Let Dave know your thoughts and get your podcast mentioned on the show.

Thank you for listening, for your support, and—most importantly—keep sharing your message!

https://www.speakpipe.com/HelloDave

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https://howtopodcast.ca/

E467 - Fighting Elitism in Podcasting - How Podcasters Can Champion Inclusion Sep 17, 2025

Show notes

Episode 467 - Fighting Elitism in Podcasting - How Podcasters Can Champion Inclusion

Elitism in podcasting manifests when creators adopt a condescending or dismissive attitude toward their audience or fellow podcasters, often using their platform to assert superiority, gatekeep knowledge, or exclude voices perceived as less credible or influential.

Audience Exclusion: Some podcasters make their content deliberately 'highbrow,' assuming listeners share their educational or cultural background, which can alienate diverse audiences and reinforce notions of intellectual exclusivity.
Condescending Tone: Podcasters may use patronizing language such as “you probably don’t understand this…” or over-explain concepts, implicitly belittling their audience’s intelligence or experience.
Dismissing Fellow Creators: In competitive podcasting circles, creators sometimes look down on 'amateur' or newer shows, suggesting only podcasts backed by celebrities or major media brands are worth listening to, further fortifying industry barriers.
Mocking Listeners: Certain shows, like the UK-based "Demon Seed," purposefully mock their audience, ridiculing them for tuning in and downplaying the show's value in a way that may foster a toxic relationship instead of a supportive community.

Promote Inclusivity: Actively encourage listener participation, honor all voices, and ensure content is accessible and relevant to a wider spectrum of the population. Avoid jargon and cultural references that exclude newcomers or marginalized groups.
Foster Podcaster Collaboration: Build communities where podcasters of all experience levels are welcomed and given support, not judged by platform size or celebrity status. Create mentorship opportunities and share knowledge generously, rather than gatekeeping.
Model Constructive Engagement: Instead of dismissing criticism or opposing opinions with a superior tone, engage respectfully and use feedback as a basis for growth. Address audience questions with humility and gratitude for their interest.
Challenge ‘Expert Only’ Mentalities: Encourage sharing of diverse stories by spotlighting new or unconventional podcasters. Advocate for democratized access to platforms and resources, reinforcing the idea that everyone’s story and voice matters.
Promote Positive Mindset: Prioritize confidence-building, encouragement, and skill development in the podcast community, shifting focus from competition and hierarchy to growth and mutual support.

Avoid language or behavior that might inadvertently belittle or exclude audience members.
Uplift peers, celebrate the diversity in podcasting, and share collaborative opportunities.
Create space for difficult conversations about privilege, representation, and accessibility in podcasting forums or episodes.
Listen actively to feedback from all segments of the community, not just established voices or industry insiders.

Taking these steps can help correct elitism in podcasting and foster a healthier, more welcoming environment for creators and listeners alike.

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https://howtopodcast.ca/

Should We Address Big Cultural Events and Moments in Our Podcasts Or Do We Ignore Them Sep 15, 2025

Show notes

Should We Address Big Cultural Events and Moments in Our Podcasts Or Do We Ignore Them

Dave invites listeners to reflect on the responsibilities podcasters have toward their audience—especially in difficult times.

Against the backdrop of recent events ranging from a podcasting icon’s passing and solemn anniversaries to tragic global and personal losses, Dave explores whether and how creators should respond to major news and collective grief through their shows.

Main Themes & Talking Points:

The question of what podcasters owe their audience during tough times
Balancing show focus with authentic human connection when external events shake the world
The lasting impact of community and support within the podcasting world
Grieving the unexpected loss of Todd Cochrane, a podcasting pioneer and mentor
Remembering and honoring the heroes of September 11th, reflecting on the effects of tragedy
The importance of open dialogue, debate, and empathy in society and on college campuses
Navigating personal loss and connecting authentically through shared experience
The value of checking in and showing up for your listeners, even when you don’t have all the answers
Encouraging more kindness, acceptance, and space—both in life and in content creation
The unique power of podcasting to foster community, debate, and healing

Key Takeaways:

Podcasters have an opportunity—and sometimes a duty—to acknowledge and check in with listeners when the world feels heavy
Sharing raw, real perspective can be as valuable as sticking to content; podcasting is about community, not just information
Even when opinions differ, kindness and respect for others’ voices and experiences are crucial for learning and growth
Every creator and listener is still learning; nobody has reached the finish line, and every voice matters
There’s room to be open, receptive, and kind—both on the mic and in daily life

Call to Action:
Dave encourages listeners to keep sharing their message, checking in with their community, and welcoming dialogue, even when it’s not easy. Be kind, stay safe, and keep podcasting.

Relevant Connections:

Mentions and honors Todd Cochrane, long-time podcasting contributor
Reflects on personal and global events impacting emotional well-being and worldview
Invites listeners to be part of ongoing group meetups and community conversations

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https://howtopodcast.ca/

E466 - Suggestions for Podcast Hosts and Guests on Your Next Interview with Guest Co-Host - Mitch Carson Sep 15, 2025

Show notes

Episode 466 - Suggestions for Podcast Hosts and Guests on Your Next Interview with Guest Co-Host - Mitch Carson

Introduction

Mentored CEOs, speakers, authors, consultants, coaches with a purpose to share their message and business objective on an international level. Some notable clients include Mark Victor Hansen (author of Chicken Soup for the Soul, ½ billion books sold), Chris Okazaki who is the Tony Robbins of Japan, Dan Kennedy (author of 30+ books), and has shared the stage with Sir Richard Branson, Donald Trump, Lord Sugar, Vishen Lakhani, Zig Ziglar, Chinkee Tan, Suria Sparks, two Prime Ministers and three members of royal families from Malaysia, Bahrain and Oman. Guarantees Network TV interviews to speakers, authors and podcast hosts.

https://www.mitchcarson.com/https://www.getinterviewedguaranteed.com____

https://howtopodcast.ca/

E465 - The Truth About Podcast Communities - Growing, Guiding, and Guarding Your Group Sep 12, 2025

Show notes

Episode 465 - The Truth About Podcast Communities - Growing, Guiding, and Guarding Your Group

Key Points for Running a Podcast Community or Meetup Group

Understanding Member Interaction

Foster inclusivity: Encourage open dialogue and make sure all voices are heard, not just the most vocal.
Set clear guidelines: Establish ground rules for respectful communication and participation.
Facilitate connections: Create opportunities for members to interact beyond meetings, such as online forums or group chats.

Dealing With Inactive Members

Gentle reminders: Send friendly messages to inactive members, inviting them to participate and reminding them of upcoming events.
Survey interests: Ask for feedback on what would motivate them to attend or engage more actively.
Accept natural attrition: Recognize that not everyone will stay involved, and focus on nurturing those who are engaged.

Handling Toxicity and Negative Behavior

Address issues promptly: Confront toxic behavior early to prevent it from affecting the group dynamic.
Private conversations: Speak privately with individuals causing issues, explaining the impact of their behavior.
Enforce consequences: If necessary, remove members who consistently disrupt the positive environment.

Sustaining and Nurturing the Community

Consistent engagement: Regularly share updates, resources, and encouragement to keep the community active.
Celebrate milestones: Acknowledge group achievements and individual contributions to build a sense of belonging.
Evolve with feedback: Continually seek input from members and adapt the group’s activities to meet their needs.

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https://howtopodcast.ca/

E464 - An Audio First Podcast Approach to Video Podcasting - 3 Things Every Podcaster Should Consider Sep 10, 2025

Show notes

Episode 464 - An Audio First Podcast Approach to Video Podcasting - 3 Things Every Podcaster Should Consider

Show Notes: Episode – Video Strategy Update for Podcasting

This episode explores the ever-evolving conversation around video in podcasting—answering questions, challenging "gurus," and sharing a practical, creator-focused approach that values community and diversity in podcasting styles.

Explores traditional vs. evolving definitions of a podcast, emphasizing that a true podcast is audio-first and distributed via an RSS feed.
Challenges conventions and debates about whether video formats on platforms like YouTube count as podcasts.
Highlights the importance of accessibility: audio podcasts can be enjoyed anywhere, without needing a screen.

“Podcasting was designed to be a non-gate capped approach to sharing your message with the world.”

Discusses the current "camps" in the podcasting world: pro-video, anti-video, pro-audio only, etc.
Recommends thoughtful consideration instead of following divisive trends:
- Video is a great tool for some, but not all shows or guests.
- Audio-only podcasts remain powerful, especially for audiences like children, or guests who prefer anonymity.
Encourages listener-focused decisions: Choose format based on what fits your podcast’s message, audience, and guest needs—not on external pressure or strict “rules.”

Shares insights from hosting nine different podcasts, each with unique needs:
- Example: The Daily Santa Podcast — intentionally audio-only to create a screen-free experience for children.
- Living The Next Chapter (author interviews) — adapts to guest security concerns by sometimes skipping video to preserve anonymity.
Highlights technical choices:
- Uses tools like Canva and Zoom for video production.
- Video editing is light and efficient; the majority of time is spent on audio quality.
- Leverages platforms like Spotify for Podcasters, Buzzsprout, and Captivate for RSS syndication.

Suggests a “three-legged stool” approach for creators:
1. Audio: Core content distributed widely.
2. Video: Supplemental, short-form, or full interviews—used as appropriate.
3. Written: Show notes, blogs, newsletters, or community platforms like Substack—extending the episode’s reach and adding context.
Emphasizes podcasting as a personal journey:
- Don’t let others dictate your format—adapt to your skills, time, guest comfort, and community needs.
- Permission and respect for guests are paramount—never make video mandatory.

There’s no single right way to podcast—experiment, adapt, and do what’s right for you and your show.
Audio remains king for Dave, with video as an add-on and written content to support listener engagement.
Podcasting is about connecting, sharing, and supporting others. The host invites listeners to join the community, reach out for help, or collaborate as co-hosts.
“Do what you can with what you have, where you are.”

Dave offers podcasting support, editing services, and collaboration opportunities.
Find tutorials, schedule virtual coffee chats, and join a podcast creator community.
The Hatter Podcast Series will remain audio-first and free, with video and resources available when possible.

Keep podcasting, keep sharing, and remember—your voice matters!

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https://howtopodcast.ca/

Thank you Todd Cochrane for Your Service to Your Country and to the Podcasting Community - You Will Be Missed Sep 09, 2025

Show notes

Thank you Todd Cochrane for Your Service to Your Country and to the Podcasting Community - You Will Be Missed

Todd Cochrane was born in Quincy, Michigan. Given a strong work ethic by his parents and grandparents, he graduated from a small, country high school in a class of less than a hundred.

In vocational tech school Todd took two years of electronics, and then joined the Navy in 1983. His official title at that time was aviation electronics technician, and he worked in electronic warfare, synthetic aperture radar and intelligence collection on P-3 Orion anti-submarine and maritime surveillance aircraft.

After serving 21 years in the United States Navy on active duty, Todd retired in 2007 as a senior chief. In 2011, Todd attained a bachelor’s degree in professional aeronautics from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.

Always interested in technology, Todd started to tinker with things like bulletin boards and downloading shareware while stationed in Guam. He launched his own Wildcat dial-up bulletin board in the late 1990s. As the world of the BBS began to fade, he launched a personal weblog in 2001, and in 2002 he developed a popular technology news website, Geek News Central.

For Geek News Central, he was one of the first to podcast, in October 2004 - from “a little desk in a hotel room in Waco, Texas, and with a $14.95 microphone from the Walmart across the street”. Go Daddy became a sponsor of the show in 2005, and, after his show gave Go Daddy 370 customers in the first month, the company remained the sponsor for twenty years: the longest known podcast sponsorship. Todd began running one of the first podcast networks, the Tech Podcast Network (TPN), with twelve shows.

People listened to Geek News Central. Once, he posted feedback on a few issues he was having with his Mac. His phone rang: it was Steve Jobs, keen to learn more about the issues he was having. In the end, he was sent a new Mac for his trouble.

He was inducted into the Podcast Hall of Fame as part of the inaugural 2015 ceremony. “Todd is a fierce advocate for podcasting and the principles it was built on,” said Podcast Movement’s Dan Franks at the time, who organised the event, “and he makes sure to stand up for the independent podcaster.”

A fierce proponent of open RSS and building your podcast on your own website using his PowerPress podcasting plugin for WordPress, Todd started streaming his Geek News Central podcast show live in 2009, and was a keen advocate of podcasting free speech, accurate podcast metrics as a strong advocate of the IAB podcast measurement guidelines and “Podcasting 2.0”. Ever willing to help progress the industry, Todd was always interested to learn and make friends with anyone in podcasting. A regular fixture at podcast events - particularly at the bar in the evening - Todd shared his expertise, and his gossip, with as many people as he could.

Todd’s weekly 13 year running New Media Show, co-hosted by Rob Greenlee, was a must-listen for those in podcasting - often described as the show where you’ll “get a PhD in podcasting”. The show was a mainstay live on main stages at Podcast Movement and Podfest Expo for many years.

“I’m not a Joe Rogan, nor will I ever be. But what I am is a guy that grew up in the country with humble beginnings, high school education, followed by a bachelor’s degree late in life in a field that I’m not even working in right now. And by God, if I can do this and succeed and grind and put out a show - anyone can.”

A proud grandfather, he died suddenly on Sep 8, 2025 while travelling back from seeing family on the West Coast. He was 61.

Todd is survived by his mother Cherie, sister Chantal, his four children Ray, Natalie, Chris and Anna, and his former wife Shoko.

https://podnews.net/article/todd-cochrane-obituary

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