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E436 - Applying Lean Learning by Pat Flynn to Podcasting, Breaking the Cycle of Information Overload Jun 16, 2025

Show notes

Episode 436 - Applying Lean Learning by Pat Flynn to Podcasting, Breaking the Cycle of Information Overload

Pat Flynn’s Lean Learning: How to Achieve More by Learning Less offers a timely and actionable blueprint for creators—especially podcasters—who find themselves trapped in endless cycles of research, preparation, and information gathering without ever taking decisive action. The book’s core message is clear: in an age of information overload, success comes not from knowing more, but from doing more with what you already know

Just-in-Time Learning: Rather than hoarding information “just in case,” focus on acquiring knowledge only when it’s immediately relevant to your next step or challenge
Action Over Preparation: Momentum and growth come from taking action, not from exhaustive preparation. Real breakthroughs happen when you move forward before you feel completely ready
Essentialism: Identify what’s truly essential for your growth and eliminate distractions and nonessential information that bog you down
Community and Iteration: Leverage community support and feedback to solve problems as they arise, rather than trying to anticipate every possible challenge in advance

Podcasters, especially those striving for quality and authority, often fall into the trap of endless research—listening to other shows, reading articles, and seeking the “perfect” angle or guest. While thorough research has its place, too much can lead to paralysis and delay real progress

The abundance of resources and advice can make it feel like you’re never fully prepared to launch, record, or publish.

Set Clear Boundaries: Decide in advance how much time you’ll spend on research for each episode or project.
Define Your Minimum Viable Episode: Identify the minimum amount of information you need to confidently deliver value to your audience.
Use Just-in-Time Learning: Only seek out new information when you hit a specific roadblock, rather than trying to anticipate every potential challenge upfront

1. Shift from “Just-in-Case” to “Just-in-Time” Learning

Instead of stockpiling resources, ask yourself: “What do I need to know to take my next step?” If you’re preparing to interview a guest, focus only on what’s necessary for a great conversation—not every detail of their biography

2. Prioritize Action

Start recording, editing, or publishing even if you feel slightly unprepared. Real learning and improvement come from doing, not just planning
Remember, listeners value authenticity and progress over perfection. Iteration is part of the process

3. Limit Research Time

Set a timer or calendar block for research. When the time is up, move to scriptwriting or recording, trusting that you can fill in gaps as needed later

4. Curate Your Information Sources

Choose a few trusted sources rather than trying to consume everything. This reduces overwhelm and helps you focus on actionable insights

5. Build in Reflection and Feedback

After each episode, reflect on what worked and what didn’t. Use listener feedback and analytics to guide your next steps, rather than chasing every new trend or tip

6. Leverage Community

When you encounter a challenge, reach out to podcasting communities or mentors for targeted advice, rather than trying to solve every problem alone

You’ve met your minimum research threshold and are starting to repeat information.
You feel diminishing returns from additional research—new sources aren’t adding significant value.
You’re delaying action out of fear of imperfection, rather than genuine need for more information.

Pat Flynn’s Lean Learning is a call to action for podcasters: stop letting information overload stall your progress.

By embracing Lean Learning, you’ll not only break the cycle of information overload but also accelerate your growth, confidence, and impact as a podcaster.

https://patflynn.com/

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https://howtopodcast.ca/

Celebrating a Milestone for My Living The Next Chapter Podcast - 20,000 Downloads and Some Lessons Learned Jun 14, 2025

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Celebrating a Milestone for My Living The Next Chapter Podcast - 20,000 Downloads and Some Lessons Learned

Well, well, well - slow and steady wins the race! I just wanted to share with you a milestone reached in one of my other podcasts (yes, I have many!)

Living The Next Chapter is my author podcast - in just over 3 years and 580+ episodes this little podcast is just humming along - great authors share their stories - the people that I have met because of this show are amazing!

My podcast just crossed the 20,000 download mark and also 2000 watch hours (for an audio only podcast on YouTube btw)

I love this show, well I love all 9 of my different podcasts, so I reflect on this show, how it is different and how it goes against many of the podcast guru's "rules in podcasting" and this show just works!

If you love to read and you know someone that does, please send them over to Living The Next Chapter!

https://livingthenextchapter.com/

E435 - What is and What Isn't A Podcast and Why Does This Even Matter and to Whom Jun 14, 2025

Show notes

Episode 435 - What is and What Isn't A Podcast and Why Does This Even Matter and to Whom

What Is—and Isn’t—a Podcast? Why Definitions Matter

The Evolving Definition of Podcasting

Traditionally, a podcast was defined as an episodic series of audio files distributed via RSS feeds, allowing listeners to subscribe and receive new episodes automatically

For many, “podcast” now simply means any on-demand, creator-driven series—regardless of format or platform

Who’s Driving the Change?

Advertisers, marketers, and major platforms are playing a significant role in this redefinition. As podcasting has become big business, these stakeholders seek clear, measurable definitions to better target audiences and track analyticsWhy Does This Matter—and to Whom?

For Creators

Audience Targeting & Monetization: Understanding where and how listeners consume content is crucial for creators.
Content Strategy: The evolving definition means creators can experiment with formats, but must balance authenticity and audience expectations
Community Building: Social media integration is now essential for distribution, discovery, and building loyal communities around podcasts

For Listeners

Discovery & Consumption: Listeners benefit from more choices and formats, but may be confused about what “podcast” means—especially as video and social media become dominant
Community Engagement: Social media and live podcasting allow for direct interaction, making podcasts more participatory and community-driven

For the Industry

Measurement & Analytics: The move away from open RSS feeds to platform-specific distribution can complicate stats and analytics, making it harder to get a unified picture of listenership

Open vs. Closed Ecosystems: The rise of “walled gardens” (platform-exclusive content) threatens the open nature of podcasting, which was built on the freedom of RSS and broad distributionDoes This Hurt the Podcast Industry?

Potential Downsides

Dilution of the Medium: As everything gets labeled a “podcast,” the term loses specificity.
Platform Enclosure: The shift toward closed platforms (YouTube, Spotify exclusives) risks undermining the open RSS ecosystem, potentially limiting creator freedom and audience access
Fragmented Analytics: With content spread across multiple platforms, tracking true audience size and engagement becomes more challenging

Potential Upsides

Broader Reach & Accessibility: Video and social media integration have brought new audiences into podcasting, especially younger demographics like Gen Z
Innovation & Growth: New formats, interactive features, and cross-media extensions (like live podcasts, TV adaptations, and merch) are expanding what podcasts can be
Creator Empowerment: More tools, monetization options, and ways to connect with audiences can empower creators—if they can navigate the complexity

Are More New Creators Coming to Podcasting, or Is Video a Gatekeeper?

New Creators Are Arriving: The podcast audience continues to grow, with more creators entering the space thanks to easier tools, social media, and the appeal of video
Video as Both Opportunity and Barrier: While video podcasts attract new demographics and offer creative possibilities, they also raise the production bar.
Niche Audio Communities Still Thrive: Despite the video surge, niche audio-only podcasts remain popular, especially for those seeking connection and community around specific topics

The Future Is Flexible

The definition of “podcast” is no longer fixed. It’s shaped by creators, audiences, and platforms alike. While the expansion into video and social media brings both opportunities and challenges, the heart of podcasting—independent, on-demand storytelling—remains strong. For creators, the key is to stay adaptable, focus on quality, and build genuine connections with their audience—regardless of format or platform___

https://howtopodcast.ca/

E434 - Tuning In - How to Harmonize with Your Guests and Audience Resulting in a Better Podcast Jun 11, 2025

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Episode 434 - Tuning In - How to Harmonize with Your Guests and Audience Resulting in a Better Podcast

Just as a band that’s out of tune and unprepared can turn off an audience, a podcast that lacks preparation and connection with its guests or listeners can feel awkward and unengaging.

When everything is in sync—guest, host, and audience—the result is a show that resonates and leaves listeners wanting more.The Podcast as a Performance: Why Preparation and Connection Matter

Imagine a band taking the stage. If the instruments are out of tune and the musicians haven’t practiced together, the music will be jarring and unpleasant. The audience may cringe, lose interest, or even leave. On the other hand, a well-rehearsed, in-tune band creates a magical experience. The audience is captivated, moved, and eager for more. They call for an encore because they want that connection to last.

Podcasting is no different.
When a host is unprepared, guests feel awkward, conversations meander, and listeners quickly tune out. But when the host is well-prepared, guests are comfortable, and the content is relevant and engaging, the podcast becomes a memorable experience. Listeners feel seen, heard, and understood—and they can’t wait for the next episode.Practical Action Steps to Build an Effective, Engaging Podcast1. Prepare Like a Professional Musician

Research Your Guest: Learn about your guest’s background, expertise, and recent work. This helps you ask insightful questions and foster genuine conversation.
Outline Your Episode: Create a clear structure for your episode, including key topics, questions, and transitions. This keeps the conversation focused and dynamic.
Tech Check: Test your equipment, internet connection, and recording software before each episode to avoid technical glitches.

2. Rehearse and Refine

Practice Interviewing: If you’re new to interviewing, practice with friends or colleagues to build confidence and improve your flow.
Review Past Episodes: Listen to previous episodes to identify what worked well and what could be improved. Adjust your approach as needed.

3. Tune In to Your Audience

Know Your Listeners: Understand who your audience is, what they care about, and what problems they want solved. Tailor your content to their interests and needs.
Solicit Feedback: Encourage listeners to share their thoughts, questions, and suggestions. Use this feedback to refine your show and deepen your connection.

4. Create a Welcoming Environment for Guests

Brief Your Guests: Share the episode format, key topics, and any questions in advance. This helps guests feel prepared and confident.
Be a Good Listener: During the interview, listen actively and respond thoughtfully. This makes guests feel valued and encourages authentic conversation.

5. Deliver a Memorable Experience

Be Authentic: Let your personality shine through. Authenticity builds trust and connection with your audience.
End with a Call to Action: Invite listeners to subscribe, leave a review, or join your community. This keeps them engaged and coming back for more.

6. Follow Up and Reflect

Thank Your Guests: Send a thank-you note or share the episode with your guest. This strengthens your relationship and encourages future collaboration.
Evaluate Your Performance: After each episode, reflect on what went well and what could be improved. Continuous improvement is key to long-term success.

Just as a great band leaves the crowd cheering for more, a well-prepared, audience-focused podcast will have listeners eagerly awaiting your next episode. By tuning in to your guests and your audience, and by putting in the practice and preparation, you’ll create a show that truly resonates and calls for an encore.Check out KidsPod App - a screen free podcast app for kidshttps://kidspod.app/

Listen here

https://youtu.be/fdmdEFq130c

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https://howtopodcast.ca/

E433 - The Power of Consistency Over Perfection - What Happens When Podcasters Commit Long-Term Jun 09, 2025

Show notes

Episode 433 - The Power of Consistency Over Perfection - What Happens When Podcasters Commit Long-Term

"Write a short story every week. It's not possible to write 52 bad short stories in a row."
— Ray Bradbury

Podcasting Version:
"Record an episode every week. It’s nearly impossible to make 52 bad episodes in a row."Don’t get hung up on making every episode perfect. Instead, focus on showing up and recording each week. With every episode, you’ll get better—your confidence will grow, your skills will sharpen, and your voice will become clearer. If you commit to 52 episodes, odds are you’ll surprise yourself with how much you improve and how many great moments you create along the way. The magic is in the commitment, not the pursuit of perfection.Consistency beats perfection. Keep creating, keep recording, and trust the process—your best episodes are ahead of you!When a podcaster commits to a long-term focus on content creation—such as recording and releasing episodes regularly over a year—the benefits are significant and multifaceted, both for the creator and their audience.What Happens When Podcasters Commit Long-Term

Skill Growth and Confidence: Regular recording sharpens your abilities as a host, interviewer, and storyteller. Each episode is a chance to practice, experiment, and improve, making it unlikely that all your episodes will be subpar. Over time, you’ll find your unique voice and style, and your confidence behind the mic will grow
Audience Trust and Retention: Consistency builds trust. When listeners know they can count on new episodes at a set time, they’re more likely to become regular followers and incorporate your show into their routines. This reliability fosters loyalty and keeps your podcast top-of-mind
Community Building: A consistent podcast creates opportunities for deeper engagement. Listeners become invested in your journey, share feedback, and help spread the word. This sense of partnership and community is a powerful driver of growth and connection
Increased Visibility and Discoverability: Podcast platforms and algorithms often reward consistent creators by recommending their shows more frequently. This can lead to greater organic reach and the opportunity to attract new listeners
Content Library and Binge-ability: Over time, a regular release schedule builds a substantial back-catalogue. New listeners can binge episodes, deepening their connection and increasing the likelihood of becoming long-term fans
Authority and Credibility: By consistently delivering valuable insights, you establish yourself as a trusted voice in your niche. This authority can open doors for collaborations, sponsorships, and other opportunities
Monetization Potential: As your audience grows, so do opportunities for sponsorships, ads, and merchandise. Brands are drawn to podcasters with engaged, loyal followings, and regular content is key to building that audience
Personal Fulfillment: There’s intrinsic value in seeing a creative commitment through. The journey from episode one to episode fifty-two is filled with learning, growth, and a sense of accomplishment.

The Power of Consistency Over Perfection

Rather than aiming for 52 perfect episodes, focus on the commitment to keep going. Each episode is a step forward; some will be better than others, but every one is a building block for your skills, your show, and your community. As Ray Bradbury suggested for writers, it’s nearly impossible to create 52 bad episodes in a row—growth is inevitable if you keep showing up.

Commitment to regular podcasting leads to skill development, audience trust, community growth, increased visibility, and long-term authority. The real reward isn’t perfection, but the progress and connections made along the way____https://howtopodcast.ca/

E432 - 4 Must-Have and 4 Might Harm Considerations for a Great Podcast Name Jun 07, 2025

Show notes

Episode 432 - 4 Must-Have and 4 Might Harm Considerations for a Great Podcast Name

Naming your podcast is one of the most important early decisions you’ll make as a creator. A great name can help your show stand out, attract your ideal audience, and make it easy for listeners to find you. Here’s a practical framework to guide you, along with common pitfalls to avoid.4 Must-Have Framework Ideas for a Great Podcast Name

Search-Friendly and Discoverable
- Use keywords your target audience would actually type into podcast apps or Google.
- Avoid obscure references or inside jokes unless your audience is already in on them.
Simple, Clear, and Easy to Spell
- Choose a name that’s easy to pronounce, spell, and remember.
- Avoid puns or wordplay that could be confusing when heard aloud.
Targeted and Relevant
- Make sure your name gives a clear idea of your show’s topic, tone, or target audience.
- Let the title help listeners “opt in” or “opt out” at a glance.
Unique but Not Overcomplicated
- Stand out from the crowd, but don’t sacrifice clarity for cleverness.
- Check for existing podcasts or brands with similar names to avoid legal or SEO issues.

4 Things That Might Harm Your Podcast Name

Odd Spellings or Letter/Number Combos
- Avoid names like “Cre8tive Minds” or “Blubrry Chat”—they’re hard to spell and search for.
- Listeners might not find you if they can’t guess the spelling.
Too Generic or Vague
- Names like “The Podcast Show” or “Talk Time” don’t stand out and won’t help with searchability.
- You want listeners to know what your show is about immediately.
Overly Long or Complicated Titles
- Long names are hard to remember, hard to say, and may get cut off in podcast apps.
- Keep it concise and punchy.
Using Trademarked or Popular Brand Names
- Avoid names that could cause legal trouble or confusion with existing brands.
- Always do a search to make sure your name is available.

Pro Tip: Test Your Podcast Name with Voice Search

Speak your podcast name into your phone’s voice assistant or a smart speaker.
If the search results are frustrating or inaccurate, your listeners will have the same problem. This is a quick way to test if your name is easy to find and pronounce.

Quick Recap

Do: Make it simple, clear, targeted, and search-friendly.
Don’t: Use odd spellings, generic terms, long titles, or trademarked names.

A great podcast name is your first handshake with your audience—make it count!

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https://howtopodcast.ca/

E431 - Cutting Through the Marketing Clichés - Speaking Your Listener’s Language Jun 04, 2025

Show notes

Episode 431 - Cutting Through the Marketing Clichés - Speaking Your Listener’s Language

The temptation to use trendy marketing jargon, complicated vocabulary, or AI-generated scripts can create a real disconnect between the host and the audience. Let’s break down why this happens, why it matters, and how to keep your podcast authentic and relatable.Why Podcasters Fall into the Marketing Speak Trap

Pressure to Sound Professional: Many creators believe that using big words or industry lingo makes them sound more credible or authoritative.
AI-Generated Content: Tools like AI assistants can be helpful, but if you simply read what’s generated without editing for your own voice, it can sound stiff or unnatural.
Trend Chasing: There’s a desire to keep up with what’s “hot” in the podcasting world, leading to overuse of buzzwords and cliches.

The Risks of Overusing Jargon and Cliches

Loss of Authenticity: Listeners can tell when you’re not speaking in your natural voice. Forced language feels inauthentic and can erode trust.
Audience Disconnection: Not everyone in your audience knows what “tangential” or “parasocial” means. Using these words without explanation can make people feel excluded.
Missed Connection: The real magic of podcasting is in building relationships and community. Talking over your audience’s heads puts up a wall instead of building a bridge.

How to Stay Authentic and Connect with Your Audience

Know Your Audience

Speak the way your listeners speak. If your show is for new podcasters, use simple, clear language. If you’re talking to industry experts, it’s okay to use more technical terms—but always define them.

AI tools are great for brainstorming, but always rewrite or edit the output in your own voice. Make sure the words you use are words you’d actually say in conversation.

Phrases like “think outside the box” or “move the needle” are tired and often meaningless. Replace them with specific, concrete language that paints a picture for your listeners.

The most successful podcasters sound like themselves. Don’t be afraid to show your personality, quirks, and even your mistakes. That’s what makes you relatable.

Ask your audience how you’re doing. Are you coming across as genuine? Are there words or phrases that confuse them? Use their feedback to improve.There are no awards for using the fanciest vocabulary or the most buzzwords. The real reward is building a loyal, engaged audience that feels seen and heard. Drop the marketing speak, ditch the cliches, and speak from the heart. Your listeners will thank you—and your podcast will be better for it.Remember: Connection beats perfection every time. Speak to be understood, not to impress. That’s how you build real community, one episode at a time.____

https://howtopodcast.ca/

E430 - CO-HOST - Aisosa Wisdom Okonkwo - Host of Wisdom Journey - Building in Public and PodMatch Jun 02, 2025

Show notes

Episode 430 - CO-HOST - Aisosa Wisdom Okonkwo - Host of Wisdom Journey - Building in Public and PodMatch

Wisdom Journey Podcast Follow my unfiltered, real-time journey as I navigate the world of online income. No fake success stories or get-rich-quick schemes – just honest documentation of wins, losses, and everything in between. Each episode captures my weekly experiments with different online business models: freelancing, digital products, affiliate marketing, and more. I share exact numbers, strategies that worked (and failed), and the brutal reality of building income

https://pod.link/1797567459

https://wisdom.beehiiv.com/

https://x.com/AisosaMedia/

E429 - Maximize Your Discoverability - Choosing the Right Podcast Category May 30, 2025

Show notes

Episode 429 - Maximize Your Discoverability - Choosing the Right Podcast Category

Getting your show listed under the correct podcast categories helps with discoverability and ensures it reaches people who are naturally interested in your content. In this guide, you’ll learn what podcast categories are, why they matter, how to pick the right ones, and what the most popular and niche options look like.

Podcast categories are tags used by directories like Apple Podcasts and Spotify to organize and list shows. These categories help listeners discover new podcasts by interest area. Categories range from broad ones like News or Comedy to niche ones like Fashion & Beauty or Entrepreneurship.

The Joe Rogan Experience fits under multiple relevant categories:

Comedy > Comedy Interviews
Society & Culture
News > News CommentaryWhy Is It Important to Choose the Right Podcast Category?
Discoverability

Most listeners discover new shows by browsing categories or charts within those categories. The right fit boosts your chances of visibility.

Correct categorization means your show is shown to users who are already interested in similar content, making them more likely to click and listen.

Categories with lower competition might allow your show to climb the charts faster, helping you gain early traction.

Audience Targeting

Chart PotentialHow to Choose the Right Podcast Category1. Define Your Show’s Core Theme

Think about what your podcast is actually about and the specific subject matter you focus on regularly.

What topics do you cover? Could your show fall under different genres like Health, Education, or Leisure?

Use tools like Chartable or browse Apple/Spotify charts to see where similar shows are listed.

Don’t choose an unrelated, low-competition category just to try to rank. This can backfire and potentially get you removed from directories.

Targeting a niche category can be strategic if it aligns with your content and has less competition.

Use Multiple Lenses

Look at the Competition

Avoid Irrelevant Categories

Balance Popularity and SpecificityCategorizing your podcast correctly is critical for being discovered, reaching the right audience, and climbing the charts. Choose relevant, descriptive categories that align with your content and audience’s expectations. You can update categories as your show evolves—but always weigh the pros and cons.For Podcasters Wanting to Optimize

Captivate.fm Guide to Podcast Categories:
https://www.captivate.fm
➤ Offers in-depth tips on setting categories in their dashboard and why it matters.
Podnews Category Trends & Charts:
https://podnews.net
➤ Stay current with industry news, new category launches, and chart changes.
Edison Research – Podcast Consumer Reports:
https://www.edisonresearch.com
➤ Data on the most popular podcast genres and listener behavior.

For Better Podcast Discovery

Apple Podcasts Browse Page:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/genre/podcasts/id26
➤ Browse by categories, top charts, and featured shows.
Spotify Podcast Categories Hub:
Open the Spotify app > "Search" tab > Scroll to "Podcasts" > Explore by genre
➤ Great for seeing what’s trending and tailored by user interest.
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https://howtopodcast.ca/

E428 - The Regular Podcast Episode Checkup - Essential Podcast Tune-Ups for Every Creator May 28, 2025

Show notes

Episode 428 - The Regular Podcast Episode Checkup - Essential Podcast Tune-Ups for Every Creator

Regular Items to Review for Your Podcast at Milestone Intervals

As your podcast grows, setting regular review points—such as every 50 episodes—is essential for keeping your show fresh, relevant, and optimized for growth. Here are key areas to audit and update at these intervals, along with actionable suggestions:

Podcast Website

Review and update your website’s content, images, and features to ensure accuracy and relevance. Regularly check for broken links, outdated information, and add new content to boost SEO and user experience
Consider a design refresh or adding new sections (e.g., resources, guest profiles, listener testimonials).

Show Notes and Transcripts

Update your show notes format to include comprehensive summaries, key points, quotes, and relevant links. Well-crafted show notes improve discoverability, listener value, and SEO
Ensure transcripts are available for accessibility and search optimization.

Call to Action (CTA)

Reevaluate your episode CTAs. Make sure you’re consistently encouraging listeners to take meaningful actions—such as subscribing, sharing, leaving reviews, or visiting your website. Update CTAs to align with your current goals (e.g., promoting a new newsletter or community)

Show Artwork and Branding

Assess your podcast artwork and branding elements. Consider a refresh to stay visually appealing and in line with current trends or your evolving brand identity.

Podcast Name and Description

Review your podcast title and description. If your show’s focus has shifted, update the name or add a relevant extension for clarity and discoverability.

Episode Titles

Audit past episode titles for clarity, SEO, and intrigue. Refresh underperforming or outdated titles to boost downloads and engagement
Use concise, descriptive, and curiosity-driven titles with action-oriented language and numbers when appropriate.

Audio Quality and Equipment

Listen critically to your recent episodes. Evaluate your audio quality, editing, and production choices. Consider upgrading equipment or software if needed to maintain a professional sound

Content Strategy

Reflect on your episode formats, topics, and guest diversity. Adjust your content calendar to align with listener feedback and analytics.

Technical and Platform Updates

Ensure your podcast is distributed to all major platforms and your RSS feed is up to date.
Check analytics tools and integrate any new features offered by hosting platforms.

Podcast Trailer
- Update your Podcast Trailer - you have grown, the tone of your show has matured - be sure that your trailer reflects your current episodes so as to not appear dated
  
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  https://howtopodcast.ca/

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