Community & Community Building Episodes

A lot of creators chase growth before realizing Podcast community matters more than downloads that disappear after one listen. The morning show cast and crew talk about the difference between having an audience and building real connection, the kind where listeners share your episodes, message you about how the show helped them, and keep showing up because they feel part of something. There’s also a bigger conversation around consistency, vulnerability, and why the strongest momentum usually com...

Most podcasters don't fail. They stop, often right when something's starting to click. We talk about that moment in this episode, you know the one, where growth feels slow, nobody's commenting, and doubt wins. But here's the thing: progress is already happening. You just can't see it yet. The PMC cast and crew broke down what kills momentum before it even registers. Unclear expectations. Chasing downloads when you should be watching who keeps coming back. Getting buried in the workload. There's ...

After 500 episodes, one thing is clear: podcast growth doesn't come from better tactics. It comes from connection. This milestone episode brings together the people who built the Podcasting Morning Chat community. What started as a simple live conversation turned into something where creators actually help each other get better. They share ideas, critique each other's work, and push back when something isn't working. Early on, most people struggled with intros. Finding your rhythm felt impossibl...

Your podcast might be growing more than you realize, but the way you’re measuring it could be hiding the progress. Today’s conversation explores how looking beyond downloads can reveal the real momentum happening behind the scenes. From small workflow improvements and new tools to better planning and stronger content, this episode highlights the subtle wins that often go unnoticed. You’ll hear how creators are rethinking success through audience interaction, consistency, and personal growth, and...

Apple Podcasts HLS video, creator workflows, and what this actually changes might have less to do with new tech and more to do with how your podcast is built behind the scenes. The PMC cast and crew talk through Apple pulling audio directly from video files and what that means for creators producing separate audio and video versions, including the impact on editing, time, and costs, while also digging into video-first vs audio-first approaches, how things play out differently across Apple, Spoti...

What’s the best part of podcasting… and what’s the part nobody warns you about? Today, we explore the highs and lows that come with running a podcast. This ranges from hosting meaningful conversations to frustrations that show up behind the scenes. You’ll hear stories about common mistakes, the pressure around monetization, the grind of promotion, and the many moving parts that go into producing a show. At the same time, the conversation highlights why so many creators keep showing up behind the...

Today’s episode didn’t go as planned. It was supposed to be our Podcast News and Comment edition, but my internet had other ideas. Most of the show didn’t make it. What did survive was the opening few minutes, and that’s what you’re getting here! I kicked things off with a question that sounds incredibly creepy at 7am. I promise there was a reason for it! The team rolled with it, and what followed was one of those unscripted moments that perfectly captures the personality of this community. L...

Walking into your first podcast conference can feel exciting and overwhelming all at once, especially with Podfest right around the corner. You’re scanning the schedule, wondering who to talk to, what sessions to attend, and whether you’re really “ready” to be there. Today, we’re talking openly about what it’s like to show up to a conference, how to navigate the rooms, conversations, and social energy mentally. We’re sharing our real experiences along with thoughtful guidance on setting intentio...

Today’s the day we get to know our co-hosts a little more. This episode is all about the people who make the show what it is. We open up about how we started, what keeps us creating, and what we’ve learned from podcasting. We share insights on first-time jitters, lessons on perfection, editing, and connection. We get transparent on growth, creative passion, and the joy of finding your voice. Join us for an easygoing, genuine conversation that celebrates the heart behind the mic and the community...

What an unforgettable weekend in Charlotte! I’m sincerely on cloud 9! Today, we’re sharing the stories, strategies, and breakthroughs we brought home and the conversations that turned strangers into family. I want to thank everyone who made this gathering possible: our speakers who gave with open hearts, our volunteers who kept things moving, and every single attendee who showed up ready to learn, connect, and lift one another up. You are the reason this community is so special. One moment that ...

The Empowered Podcasting Conference is officially here! We’re live from the Hyatt Centric in Charlotte with community friends, including Dave Jackson of School of Podcasting. To kick off the festivities, we dive into what it takes to get the most out of a conference. We share networking tips that are great for keeping your energy up when excitement and nerves collide. Dave reflects on 20 years of podcasting wisdom, sharing insights on how to avoid common mistakes, why community matters, and the ...

Would you trust a digital twin to produce all your content for you? Because that is now possible with Hey Gen's new "digital twin" feature. That’s just one of the hot headlines on today’s news day. We also break down Podcast Movement 2025’s headline-making merger with Sounds Profitable and what it means for creators, as well as the latest podcast charts, Google Gemini’s updates, and new AI video tools. We also tease Taylor Swift’s first-ever podcast appearance (more on this tomorrow) and communi...

Have you ever had an experience that changed the way you show up in the world? One that reignited your passion and reminded you why you care so deeply? Today I return from a 19-day summer break after volunteering at Camp Footprint, a sleepaway camp for kids living with CMT (Charcot Marie Tooth Disease). I served on the programming staff and rediscovered “Little Marc,” the playful, present version of myself who still believes in the power of community. This experience reminded me that podcasting ...

What if you could build deeper connections with your audience by starting a real two-way conversation? Today, we explore how to move past downloads and begin creating a real community around your podcast. We discuss using Clubhouse, Facebook groups, Discord, YouTube Community, Substack, and others to create spaces where listeners can connect with you and with each other. We also give you an overview of ChatGPT’s new AI agents and how podcasters might use them to handle online tasks and free up t...

I’m back from Spain & Portugal, and today we’re talking about something that matters more than the size of your audience: community. Seeing this group hold strong while I was away reminded me of what really makes a podcast thrive. I share a few favorite moments from Madrid and Portugal, along with what I’ve learned about building meaningful connections. I’m grateful to everyone who kept things moving while I was away. It got me thinking about how strong communities grow when listeners feel seen,...

Today, we’re digging into the mailbag to tackle a guest mix-up scenario and how to handle podcast miscommunications with clarity and professionalism. We explore smart ways to stand out in a saturated niche, like leaning into your unique voice and building collaborations. We also debate the Golden Globes' new Best Podcast category and what it means for independent creators. We also revisit imposter syndrome with honest reflections and empowering insights to help you push past self-doubt. Plus, Ma...

Today, flight attendants Drew & Rich are launching their brand new podcast called “Two Guys on a Plane.” Join us as we chat with the minds behind the show and dive into their launch strategies, how they engage their 128K Instagram followers, and the behind-the-scenes challenges they face. Our regular crew also offers invaluable advice for making their podcast successful while staying true to their vision. Be sure to show your support and follow Two Guys on A Plane! Episode Highlights: [04:53] M...

How does a community find the strength to rebuild after an unimaginable disaster? In this special ‘Podcasthon’ episode, I’m joined by my guest Marilyn Ball who shares the resilience of Asheville, North Carolina, in the wake of Hurricane Helene, celebrating a city whose history, culture, and unbreakable spirit refuse to be washed away. Together, we reflect on personal stories of devastation and hope, showing how neighbors became lifelines and strangers became friends. Despite the massive obstacl...

One of the best things about the Empowered Podcasting Community is when our members get the chance to meet face-to-face. That’s exactly what happened this past weekend when several of our community members gathered in Detroit, Michigan. The meetup was filled with laughter, long hugs, and the realization that the people we connect with online are often just as genuine in real life. Not all of us were able to attend, so today we’re welcoming those who were part of the impromptu meetup to share the...