Episodes

Marc Maron says goodbye to WTF after 16 years. Is it burnout, or just a new chapter? Either way, it’s worth discussing. We’ve also got chart updates, can’t-miss events, job leads in the podcasting industry, and a look at AI reviving voices such as Orson Welles. Big changes are happening. You don’t want to miss the inside scoop on these stories! Episode Highlights: [2:31] Podcast Data and Rankings [5:49] YouTube Charts and Updates [8:38] Upcoming Events and Opportunities [12:56] AI and Ethica...

What are your summer plans? Maybe you’re packing up the car for a family road trip, or whisking your partner away on a romantic getaway to an exotic destination. It all sounds amazing…but what about your podcast? Summer is a season when routines are often put on hold, but should your podcast take a break too? Today, we open up the mailbag to answer a listener’s question about summer podcasting: Should you pause, switch things up, or find new ways to stay connected with your audience? Pull up a ...

What’s the one thing you’ve always wanted to try on your podcast, but never dared to do? Today, we dusted off the mailbag and found some inspiration in a question from a fellow podcaster: “What’s one thing every podcaster should try at least once?” This got us thinking about all the ways we can break out of our routines and breathe new life into our shows. Today we share the experiments and challenges that have made the biggest difference for us. For some, it’s trying a new storytelling style, o...

Have you ever listened to a podcast that really inspired you and stayed with you so much that you just had to share it with someone? That's exactly what we're getting into today as we reveal the "new to us" podcasts that have captured our attention. We break down what makes these shows so impressive and discuss what keeps us coming back for more. Since it’s Friday, we’re wrapping up the week with a rapid-fire round of wins, celebrating our accomplishments and cheering each other on. Tune in for ...

Did you know female podcast listeners remember ads better than any other media platform? Today, we dig into why podcast ads, especially those integrated naturally, stick with both men and women more than TV, YouTube, or social media. That surprising stat came from Sounds Profitable, and it sparked a deeper conversation about trust, routine, and connection in audio storytelling. We also cover Apple Podcasts’ big debut at The Podcast Show in London, where they revealed it was their most successful...

Cosmo says your zodiac sign has a perfect podcast match, and we couldn’t resist putting it to the test. Today’s episode kicks off with a fun horoscope-inspired segment before digging into fresh industry headlines. Apple just teamed up with Canva to launch free, customizable templates for podcasters, making it easier to create sharp promo graphics. We also cover Anthropic’s new Claude 4 upgrades and Google’s Veo-3 Gemini integration, which allows creators to direct AI-generated video frame by fra...

Podcast charts might not mean what you think they do! Today, we break down how rankings work on various platforms. Five-star reviews might not matter as much as you’ve heard. You may be asking yourself What does matter? Today, in our conversation, we cover aspects such as completion rates and actual listening time. Remember, charts aren’t everything. We also explore what real podcast growth looks like outside the rankings. That means listener loyalty, consistent engagement, and showing up for th...

(Please forgive the first 8-10 minutes. We had to use part of our backup recording today) On today's show, we're diving into another round of your mailbag questions and since it's Friday, celebrating wins from the week! From practical tips on transitioning away from defunct podcasting softwarre to exploring powerful AI tools to streamline your production workflow, this episode has something valuable for every podcaster. We share insights on why investing in the right tools can significantly boos...

Today, we're diving deep into our mailbag to answer your pressing podcasting questions. Whether you're wrestling with co-host dynamics, considering when it's time to pull the plug, or navigating how far ahead to schedule guest interviews, we’ve got you covered. We share candid insights about balancing workload, setting clear expectations, and discovering if your podcast truly resonates with your intended audience. Plus, we explore innovative solutions for podcasters who find themselves with an ...

Today we're diving into the latest podcasting headlines... from groundbreaking AI tools to updated Spotify analytics and exciting global awards. Fresh off celebrating my stepdaughter’s graduation, I’m back with the crew, and we're sharing insights and laughter about vacations, overpreparing for episodes, and trusting the podcasting process. Plus, we've got essential updates on Google's AI enhancements, including stunning text-to-video capabilities, and why keyboards might soon be obsolete. Join ...

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...

This morning, we asked, “Is there a place for comedy on a business podcast?” With Marc on vacation, stand-up comedian and podcaster Amanda Yoa joins us to share how humor helps podcasters connect, keep things fresh, and stay true to themselves. She talks about her journey from chasing trends to finding her voice, offers tips on developing a character like her signature “Pam from Port Richmond,” and explains why letting loose might be the smartest move you make behind the mic. Episode Highlights...

Can automation, AI, and transparency shape podcasting’s future? While Marc is on vacation, the co-hosts take over to bring you the week’s top headlines. We cover Spotify’s new public play counts, ChatGPT’s Deep Research feature, and tips for automating your podcast workflow using Make.com. We also round up podcasting events and share tools that could save you hours each week. Episode Highlights: [01:57] Icebreaker Question: If AI could instantly handle one podcasting task for you forever, what ...

Would you ever promote your podcast with a sign at a coffee shop? Dan, one of our community regulars and today’s guest co-host, did exactly that—and it sparked a lively conversation on creative ways to grow your show beyond social media. With Marc traveling, DR and Dan lead the discussion as we swap ideas like custom coasters, podcast t-shirts, library partnerships, and NFC keychains. It’s a brainstorm full of fun, doable ways to get your show in front of new listeners. What will you try first? ...

Is failure real, or just feedback in disguise? This episode will shift your perspective if you've ever felt like giving up. Co-host Sid Meadows leads us in a powerful conversation about why the idea of failure might hold you back and how reframing it as feedback can change everything. Sid’s questions led to us sharing personal stories of rough starts, awkward interviews, and major redirections that made their podcasts and businesses stronger. We wrap the episode with reflections on courage, comm...

What if your next big growth move isn’t on social media... but good old-fashioned email? While Marc is gallivanting around Spain & Portugal, the crew digs into how email lists can build deeper connections and drive significant growth. We cover smart ways to repurpose your content, how to write subject lines that get clicks, and strategies for growing your list without feeling overwhelmed. You’ll also hear why treating your subscribers like a real community, not solely a marketing chore, can chan...

What makes a podcast feel like you? With Marc traveling, Jonathan leads us in a conversation on signature style, what it is, why it matters, and how to build it. We talk about personal branding, consistency, and ways to stand out without starting from scratch. Plus, we answer a mailbag question about whether your podcast needs its own Instagram or YouTube account. Because at the end of the day, nobody else can bring what you bring to the mic. Episode Highlights: [01:49] Signature Style in Podca...

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and while Marc is away on vacation, the Podcasting Morning Chat crew steps up and takes on the hard conversations around mental health and taboo topics in podcasting. Hosted by award-winning podcaster Dominic Lawson, this episode explores how podcasters can approach sensitive subjects with care, honesty, and respect. The team explores how personal stories build connection, why community care matters, and what it takes to shift stigma in podcasting. Episode ...

Have you ever thought about how much your favorite podcasts have taught you? What lessons have truly stuck? While Marc enjoys his travels, the rest of the crew holds it down with a conversation on the podcasts that have shaped us, including our own. We talk about improving our interview skills, learning by doing, planning ahead, and the communicators who’ve inspired us along the way. No matter where you are in your podcasting journey, this episode is a reminder that podcasts are one of the best ...

Looking for better ways to monetize your podcast? While our fearless leader Marc, is traveling, co-host Sid leads a striking conversation about creative strategies for turning your podcast into a real income stream. We’re not talking about boring “Mid-roll ad spots.” This episode shines a light on fresh ideas like segment sponsors, branded giveaways, paid newsletters, and more. If you're open to thinking outside the box, this conversation will spark new ways to build a podcast ecosystem that tru...

Why is it harder to share your podcast with friends than with strangers? Even after years of creating, I still feel that fear. Today, we’re unpacking Imposter Syndrome and how to move past the fear of being judged. Before I say bon voyage for vacation, we’ll celebrate our wins from the week. And next week, the Empowered Podcasting Team will take the reins with fresh conversations that will inspire you! Episode Highlights: [01:20] Vacation Plans and Excitement [08:11] Facing the Fear of Sharing...

Have you ever stepped out of your comfort zone because you knew it could lead to a breakthrough? Recently, I performed in an improv showcase, and after this experience, I realized how much I've learned from the class translates into the podcasting space and vice versa. This revelation inspired this conversation on how trying new things, like performing, skating, or stand-up comedy, can enhance your creativity. Through our discussion, we share the unconventional activities we have been trying and...

Spotify reports paying out over $100 million to podcasters in Q1 2025, driven by growth in video shows and new monetization tools. Today, for news day, we break down what that means. We also talk about Netflix exploring video podcasts, Descript’s AI editing upgrades, Instagram’s new Edits app, the latest podcast charts, and upcoming events for creators. With so much changing so fast, the real question is, are we watching podcasting progress in a way no one expects? Episode Highlights: [04:55] I...