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

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

Welcome to The How To Podcast Series — your guide to podcasting success! Join host Dave Campbell and rotating guest co-hosts for practical tips on podcasting. Learn podcasting SEO, audience growth, guest booking, audio setup, social media marketing, and hosting platform suggestions. Get real-world advice, Podcasting Tips, creative inspiration, and the confidence to build your podcast community. Podcast smarter — your journey starts here! Join our free Podcast Community on Meetup to meet fellow listeners and podcasters at all different levels – HowToPodcast.ca is your home for podcasting!

Latest Episodes:

E427 - That Podcast Guru Was Wrong - Why Your Podcast Needs a Trailer Episode May 26, 2025

Show notes

Episode 427 - That Podcast Guru Was Wrong - Why Your Podcast Needs a Trailer Episode

Why Your Podcast Needs a Trailer Episode

Benefits of a Podcast Trailer

A podcast trailer is a short, engaging preview that introduces your show, highlights its key themes, and teases upcoming content
It acts as your podcast’s "elevator pitch," giving potential listeners a quick sense of what to expect, who you are, and why they should subscribe
Trailers help build anticipation and attract an audience before your first full episode drops, allowing you to start growing your listener base early
For podcasters, creating a trailer clarifies your message and helps you succinctly communicate your show’s value

How Podcast Player Apps Display Trailers

Apple Podcasts and Spotify both give trailers prominent placement. On Apple Podcasts, trailers appear in their own section within your show’s listing and are often displayed at the top of the episode list
Spotify automatically shows the first trailer episode in your RSS feed at the top of your episode list, making it the first thing new listeners encounter
Marking an episode as a trailer is straightforward with most podcast hosts, ensuring it’s recognized and featured by major platforms

What Makes a Good Podcast Trailer

Introduce yourself and your show clearly and concisely
Tease the core themes, topics, and unique value your podcast offers
Use an engaging tone that reflects your podcast’s personality and style
Include a clear call to action, such as subscribing or following your show
Keep it focused-highlight what listeners will gain and what makes your podcast different

Ideal Trailer Episode Length

Most effective podcast trailers are between 60 and 90 seconds long
This length is long enough to convey essential information but short enough to keep it punchy and engaging
Avoid making your trailer longer than two minutes; brevity is key to holding attention

What to Avoid Saying in Your Trailer

Don’t oversell or mislead-be honest about your content and style to set accurate expectations
Avoid overusing sound effects or gimmicks that distract from your message
Don’t forget a clear call to action at the end
Steer clear of vague promises or generic statements; be specific about what listeners will experience
Don’t make your trailer feel like a full episode or an extended introduction-keep it concise and focused on the hook

Make your podcast trailers short, clear, and evoke excitement and anticipation, helping your trailer stand out in podcast apps and to new listeners

Source:

https://www.quillpodcasting.com/blog-posts/podcast-trailer____

https://howtopodcast.ca/

E426 - The Reason for the Season - Would Podcasting in Seasons Right for You May 23, 2025

Show notes

Episode 426 - The Reason for the Season - Would Podcasting in Seasons Right for You

Advantages and Disadvantages of Podcasting in Seasons

Advantages

Prevents Burnout and Allows for Breaks
Structuring your podcast into seasons provides natural breaks between production cycles, giving creators time to recharge, reflect, and plan without the constant pressure to publish. This is especially beneficial for solo podcasters or those balancing multiple responsibilities.
Improved Planning and Content Quality
Seasons encourage batch production and long-term planning, leading to more cohesive, higher-quality episodes. Podcasters can focus on research, scripting, and recording in dedicated time blocks, resulting in a polished and consistent listening experience.
Focused Themes and Story Arcs
Thematic seasons make it easier to explore topics in depth and create compelling story arcs, which can enhance listener engagement and learning. This structure is particularly effective for narrative, educational, or investigative podcasts.
Strategic Marketing Opportunities
Season launches and finales offer clear opportunities for targeted marketing campaigns, building anticipation and engagement through teasers, previews, and promotional materials.
Opportunity for Feedback and Evolution
Breaks between seasons provide natural checkpoints to gather audience feedback, review performance, and make strategic adjustments for future episodes.
Flexibility for Experimentation
Each new season can be an opportunity to test new formats, topics, or approaches without overhauling the entire podcast

Disadvantages

Risk of Losing Audience Momentum
Extended breaks between seasons can lead to a drop in listener engagement. Without consistent communication, audiences may lose interest or forget about the show.
Increased Planning and Production Demands
While seasons allow for batch production, they require significant upfront planning and coordination, which can be overwhelming, especially for new podcasters.
Potential Incompatibility with Certain Formats
News, current events, or timely commentary podcasts may not suit a seasonal format, as these shows often require regular, up-to-date content.
Technical and Organizational Challenges
Improper use of season and episode numbering can lead to confusion in podcast apps, making it harder for listeners to find the latest episodes or navigate the catalog.
Audience Discovery Issues
New listeners might find it difficult to jump into a podcast with multiple interconnected seasons, especially if the structure isn’t clearly communicated.
Pressure to Maintain Consistency
Some podcasters may feel locked into a set number of episodes per season, which can be restrictive and may not fit all content needs

Podcasting in seasons can offer significant creative and logistical benefits, but it also introduces challenges around planning, audience retention, and technical management. The decision to use a seasonal format should be based on your content type, audience needs, and production capacity___

https://howtopodcast.ca/

E425 - Reputational Risks That Can Prevent Listeners from Recommending Your Podcast May 21, 2025

Show notes

Episode 425 - Reputational Risks That Can Prevent Listeners from Recommending Your Podcast

Reputational Risks That Can Prevent Listeners from Recommending Your Podcast

When someone considers recommending a podcast, they weigh not only the show's quality but also how that recommendation will reflect on them. Several reputational risks can make even loyal listeners hesitate to share your podcast with others:

1. Poor Audio Quality

Subpar audio is one of the most significant barriers to recommendation. Listeners may fear that suggesting a podcast with distracting background noise, inconsistent volume, or muffled voices will make them seem unprofessional or inattentive to quality
Studies show that audio quality directly influences perceptions of a host’s credibility. If your show sounds amateurish, listeners may worry that recommending it could diminish their own credibility

2. Inconsistent or Unfocused Content

If your podcast lacks a clear theme or frequently shifts topics, it becomes difficult for listeners to identify who would benefit from it. This ambiguity makes people less likely to recommend the show, as they don’t want to risk the recipient finding it irrelevant or confusing
Hit-or-miss content quality can also lead to embarrassment if a recommended episode is noticeably weaker than others

3. Not Safe for Work (NSFW) Language or Content

Podcasts with explicit language, controversial topics, or adult themes can deter recommendations, especially in professional or mixed company settings. Listeners may worry about offending friends, colleagues, or family if the content is not appropriate for all audiences

4. Amateur-Looking or Confusing Cover Art

Unprofessional or unclear podcast artwork can signal low production values before a single word is heard. Listeners may feel that recommending a show with poor branding could reflect poorly on their own taste or judgment

5. Loose Episode Structure

Episodes that meander, lack editing, or feel unprepared can frustrate listeners. If someone feels they need to apologize for or explain away the lack of structure, they’re less likely to recommend the show at all

6. Lack of Memorability or Distinctiveness

If your podcast doesn’t stand out-whether in format, delivery, or perspective-it’s hard for listeners to recall and recommend it in relevant situations. Shows that blend into the crowd are rarely shared

7. Unclear Target Audience

When it’s not obvious who the podcast is for, listeners hesitate to recommend it, fearing it won’t resonate with the recipient or could even cause awkwardness

8. Personal Reputational Risk

Listeners often see their recommendations as a reflection of their own standards and tastes. If they recommend a "bad" podcast-whether due to any of the reasons above-they may worry about being judged as having poor judgment, low standards, or questionable valuesThe Impact on the RecommenderRecommending a podcast is a personal endorsement. If the show disappoints, listeners may feel embarrassed or worry that others will question their taste, discernment, or professionalism. This reputational risk is a powerful deterrent, which is why focusing on consistent quality, clarity, and professionalism is essential for word-of-mouth growth

How to Minimize Reputational Risks

Invest in good audio equipment and editing
Maintain a clear, focused topic and episode structure
Use professional cover art and branding
Be mindful of language and content warnings.
Know your target audience and communicate it clearly

By addressing these areas, you make it easier for listeners to confidently recommend your podcast-knowing it will reflect well on them.

Additional Information:

https://podcastgym.com/podcast-audio-quality-matters-more-than-you-think-heres-why/

https://podcastmarketingacademy.com/podcast-recommendation-loop/___

https://howtopodcast.ca/

E424 - Don’t Bore Us, Get to the Chorus - Why Starting in the Middle Might Work For Your Podcast May 19, 2025

Show notes

Episode 424 - Don’t Bore Us, Get to the Chorus - Why Starting in the Middle Might Work For Your Podcast

Don’t Bore Us, Get to the Chorus: Why Your Podcast Should Start in the Middle

There’s a classic saying in music: “Don’t bore us, get to the chorus.” Songwriters know the chorus is what hooks listeners-the part everyone remembers and sings along to. The same principle applies to podcasting, especially when it comes to the start of your episode.

Think about improv comedy. One of the first lessons is to start in the middle of the scene. You don’t waste time introducing characters or setting up the world. Instead, you jump right into the action-two people already arguing about football, not awkwardly introducing themselves and explaining what’s about to happen. This approach immediately pulls the audience in, making them curious and invested from the first moment.

Too often, podcasts get bogged down in lengthy introductions, excessive backstory, or “today on the show, we’ll be talking about…” monologues. When you spoon-feed every detail and context, you actually rob your audience of the chance to be engaged. Great storytelling leaves some questions unanswered at first. It trusts the listener to fill in the gaps, to deduce and discover as the episode unfolds. This is what keeps people leaning in, wanting to know more.

So, as a podcaster, challenge yourself to “get to the chorus.” Start with a compelling moment, a bold statement, or an intriguing question. Let your audience’s curiosity do the work. Not only will this make your show more dynamic, but it will also respect your listeners’ time and intelligence.

Website list of songs that start with the chorus

“Don’t bore us. Get to the chorus.” An excellent maxim to live by, and one that more artists should embrace with fervour. Long, extended intros should be kept to the realm of jam bands: if you’re trying to make a solid first impression, why hit the listener square in the face with the catchiest, most memorable part of the song right off the bat?

https://faroutmagazine.co.uk/15-songs-that-start-with-the-chorus/

Clip referenced in the episodehttps://vm.tiktok.com/ZMSdCHVpu/

https://howtopodcast.ca/

E423 - The Ultimate Guide to Podcast Ad Types - What Could Work Best for Your Show May 16, 2025

Show notes

Episode 423 - The Ultimate Guide to Podcast Ad Types - What Could Work Best for Your Show

Podcasters have several ad formats and placements to choose from, each with unique benefits and best-use scenarios:

Pre-roll Ads
These ads play at the very start of an episode, either before or right after the host’s introduction. They’re effective for brand awareness and are often appreciated by listeners who understand they help support the show
Mid-roll Ads
Placed in the middle of an episode, mid-roll ads reach listeners when engagement is highest. They tend to have the best performance for web engagement and purchase conversions, as listeners are most attentive during this segment
Post-roll Ads
These ads run at the end of an episode. Contrary to assumptions, many listeners stay tuned through post-rolls, making them surprisingly effective for driving purchase conversions
Host-Read Ads
Delivered in the host’s own voice, these ads feel authentic and personal. They can be performed live during the episode or recorded in advance. Host-read ads build trust and are highly effective, with listeners more likely to act on recommendations from hosts they trust
Baked-In Ads
Baked-in ads are permanently integrated into the episode during recording. They’re ideal for evergreen products or services, as they remain part of the episode forever. However, they can’t be updated or replaced later
Pre-Produced/Brand-Read Ads
These are fully produced ads, often featuring professional voice talent, music, and sound effects. They offer total control over the message and can be easily swapped out or updated
Announcer-Read Ads
Similar to pre-produced, but use a specific voice actor or announcer, rather than the host. These can be tailored to match the show’s tone and target demographic
Affiliate Ads
Podcasters promote products or services and earn a commission for each sale or lead generated through their unique link or code. This model is low-risk for advertisers and can be lucrative for podcasters with a loyal audience.
Sponsored Segments/Episodes
A brand sponsors an entire segment or episode, integrating their message more deeply into the show’s content
Most Effective Ad Type for an Engaged Audience

For podcasts with an engaged, loyal audience, mid-roll, host-read ads are widely considered the most effective. These ads leverage the trust between the host and listeners, feel like genuine recommendations, and are delivered when attention is highest. Research shows that host-read ads boost brand recall and purchase intent significantly, and listeners are more likely to act on them compared to other ad formats

https://podmatch.com/https://www.joinpodmatch.com/truemedia

https://www.adresultsmedia.com/news-insights/news-insights-podcast-advertising-types-and-examples/____

https://howtopodcast.ca/

E422 - How To Boost Listener Interaction - Inviting Fan Art for Your Podcast May 14, 2025

Show notes

Episode 422 - How To Boost Listener Interaction - Inviting Fan Art for Your Podcast

How to Boost Listener Interaction by Inviting Fan Art for Your Podcast

Inviting your podcast audience to create and share fan art is a powerful way to deepen listener engagement and build a vibrant community around your show. Fan art allows listeners to express their connection to your content creatively, making them feel seen, valued, and part of something bigger than just passive consumption.

Fan art taps into the emotional bond listeners have with your podcast. When fans create artwork inspired by your episodes, characters, or themes, they are actively participating in your story and expressing their personal connection. This kind of creative involvement transforms listeners into collaborators and ambassadors, strengthening their loyalty and enthusiasm.

Highlighting fan art also shows that you appreciate and recognize your audience’s talents and contributions. Sharing their creations on your social media, website, or even within episodes creates a positive feedback loop: fans feel motivated to engage more, and new listeners see a thriving, passionate community around your podcast.

Make a Clear Invitation: At the end of your episodes or in your social media posts, invite listeners to submit fan art inspired by your show. Be specific about what you’re looking for-whether it’s drawings, digital art, crafts, or even creative writing-and provide easy ways to share, like a dedicated hashtag or email address.
Create a Dedicated Space: Consider setting up a gallery on your website or a recurring social media highlight where fan art is featured. This not only honors your fans but also encourages others to participate.
Celebrate and Share: Regularly showcase fan art in your episodes by giving shout-outs or discussing the stories behind the artwork. On social media, repost fan creations with credit, and engage with the artists by commenting and thanking them.
Host Contests or Challenges: Encourage creativity by running fan art contests or themed challenges. Offer small prizes or exclusive content as incentives. This can boost excitement and participation, especially if you announce winners on your podcast or social channels.

Be Authentic and Personal: Share your genuine appreciation for fan contributions. Authenticity builds trust and encourages ongoing interaction.
Encourage Storytelling: Invite fans to explain their art or share what inspired them. This deepens the connection and gives you rich content to discuss.
Leverage Social Media: Use platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok to spread the word and create a community hub around your podcast’s fan art.
Integrate Fan Art Into Your Brand: Use fan art in your marketing materials, episode thumbnails, or merchandise to show that your community shapes your podcast’s identity.

In today’s digital landscape, passive listening is no longer enough to build a loyal audience. Podcasts that foster active participation create stronger bonds and more sustainable growth. Inviting fan art is a creative, fun, and meaningful way to turn listeners into engaged fans who feel personally connected to your podcast’s journey.

Why Fan Art Works for Listener EngagementHow to Invite and Showcase Fan ArtAdditional Tips for Maximizing Engagement Through Fan ArtWhy This Matters for Podcasters___

https://howtopodcast.ca/

E421 - Trust as Your Brand - How to Lead with Integrity in Podcasting May 12, 2025

Show notes

Episode 421 - Trust as Your Brand - How to Lead with Integrity in Podcasting

Podcasting thrives on authenticity and trust. However, as opportunities arise-such as commercial sponsorships, trending topics, or pressure to grow an audience-podcasters may feel tempted to shift their content or messaging in ways that don’t align with their original values or the expectations of their listeners.

This can put the integrity of the show, and the trust of its audience, at risk.Practical Strategies to Resist Misaligned Temptations

Define Your Podcast’s Mission: Regularly revisit your show’s purpose and core values to guide content decisions and partnerships.
Vet Opportunities Carefully: Evaluate sponsorships, collaborations, or trending topics to ensure they align with your values and your audience’s expectations.

Foster Community: Celebrate your community, highlight listener contributions, and make your audience feel seen and valued. Loyal listeners are more likely to support you through changes if they feel respected and included
Be Accountable: When mistakes happen, address them openly and promptly. Accountability builds trust, even in challenging situations

Integrity in podcasting is not a one-time achievement but an ongoing commitment. By prioritizing authenticity, transparency, accuracy, and respect, podcasters can resist the temptation to stray from their values and maintain the trust that is essential for long-term success.

Ethical podcasting not only safeguards your reputation but also empowers your audience, fostering a loyal and engaged community that will champion your work

___

https://howtopodcast.ca/

E420 - The Never-Ending School of Podcasting – Why Podcasting Keeps Curiosity Ignited May 09, 2025

Show notes

Episode 420 - The Never-Ending School of Podcasting – Why Podcasting Keeps Curiosity Ignited

Ever recorded a podcast episode and discovered something unexpected about yourself mid-conversation? Today we're exploring how the mic becomes a mirror – revealing passions, biases, and talents you never knew you had. This is curiosity ignited in action

The Curiosity Loop

How preparing episodes forces you to ask better questions

Mic as Mirror

Audio self-awareness: What your vocal tone reveals about confidence
Listener challenge: Analyze your oldest vs newest episode to track personal growth

Unexpected Teachers

How interviewing diverse guests exposes blindspots
Case study: Share a moment when a guest's perspective fundamentally shifted your worldview

Curiosity in Action

Practical exercise: "The 5-Why Episode" – Record yourself exploring one topic through five layers of "why" questions

____

https://howtopodcast.ca/

https://podseo.com/

E419 - Unlocking Your Back Catalog - The Art of Podcast Playlists May 07, 2025

Show notes

Episode 419 - Unlocking Your Back Catalog - The Art of Podcast Playlists

Leveraging playlists to organize your podcast’s back catalog is a powerful strategy for helping listeners quickly find content that matches their interests-especially when you have a large library of episodes. Playlists group similar topics, themes, or guest types, making your podcast more accessible and binge-worthy.

Where to Create and Share Podcast Playlists

Beyond YouTube and Spotify, consider these platforms:

Podbean: Allows for both audio and video playlists, integrating with your main podcast feed and website
Vimeo: Great for high-quality video podcast playlists with customization options
Dailymotion: Supports easy video uploads and playlist creation for a diverse audience
Twitch: Ideal for live and pre-recorded podcast content, with playlist-like collections for episodes
Wistia & SproutVideo: Offer advanced playlist features and analytics for both short and long-form video episodes1.
Listen Later (by Listen Notes): Lets you curate podcast episode playlists and provides an RSS feed that listeners can add to any podcast app, making it easy to share themed collections
Acast, Buzzsprout, Podomatic: Many podcast hosting platforms offer playlist or episode grouping features, plus embeddable web players for your site

Where to Promote Your Playlists

Podcast Show Notes: Include direct links to playlists in your episode notes so listeners can easily find related content
Your Podcast Website or Blog: Create a dedicated “Playlists” or “Start Here” section, and embed playlist players for easy navigation
Social Media: Promote playlists on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and X (formerly Twitter) with engaging visuals, episode highlights, and direct links
Email Newsletters: Feature playlists in your regular emails to subscribers, highlighting new or themed collections.
Podcast Directories: Some directories (like Apple Podcasts and Listen Notes) allow you to create and share curated lists or collections
Community Groups: Share playlists in relevant online communities, forums, or groups where your target audience gathers.

By creating and promoting playlists across multiple platforms like Podbean, Vimeo, Dailymotion, Listen Later, and your own website, you make it easier for listeners to discover and enjoy your content. Promote these playlists in your show notes, on your website, and across social media to maximize reach and listener engagement

https://www.listennotes.com/listen-later/____

https://howtopodcast.ca/

E418 - How To Podcast With Purpose - 4 Steps to Sharpen Your Show’s Mission May 05, 2025

Show notes

Episode 418 - How To Podcast With Purpose - 4 Steps to Sharpen Your Show’s Mission

Podcast Goal-Setting Questions

What is the main purpose or mission of your podcast?
(What impact or outcome do you want your show to create for listeners or your community?)
How will you measure if your podcast is achieving its purpose?
(What signs, feedback, or results will show you that you’re on track?)
Are you currently meeting your podcast’s goals and delivering on your mission?
(What’s working well, and where might there be a gap between your intention and your results?)
What steps can you take right now to improve your podcast and better fulfill its purpose?
(How can you refine your approach, content, or strategy to get even closer to your goals?)

"Do what you can, with what you have, where you are"

____

https://howtopodcast.ca/

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