Podcasting Morning Chat
296 episodes Last Updated: Apr 30, 25
The only daily morning show for creators, by creators!Join 20-year podcast pro, Marc Ronick and an incredible team of podcasters as they dive into everything from starting a podcast, to audience growth, monetization, booking guests, using the latest AI tools and more. It's a 'morning show meets mastermind' for content creators! Tune in live weekdays at 7 AM EST on Clubhouse (yes, Clubhouse!) or catch up anytime right here or any podcast platform. The Podcasting Morning Chat - Connect. Grow. Create.
Episodes
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] Improv Tips and Tricks[17:54] Upcoming Events [20:55] Top Podcasts and Trends[28:24] Spotify's Monetization Program[29:50] Analyzing Spotify's Payouts[31:28] Challenges with CPM Rates[40:07] Netflix's Foray into Video Podcasts[52:20] Descript's New AI FeaturesLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcClose More Deals with Lex Friedmanhttps://podnews.net/event/close-more-deals-with-lex-friedmanPodnews:www.Podnews.netJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingWhat Audio Producers Really Need to Know About Video Podcasting: https://www.soundpath.co/course/video-podcasting-2025Empowered Podcasting Conference 2:https://Empoweredpodcasting.com/New Spotify Podcast Charts: https://podcastcharts.byspotify.comNetflix Video Podcast Platform:https://www.fastcompany.com/91319401/netflix-is-eyeing-video-podcasts-as-it-expands-beyond-tv-and-filmRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to our community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com and NextGenPodcaster.comPlease note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
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] Meet Rich & Drew[05:56] Advice for New Podcasters[07:11] Behind the Scenes: Working Together[21:07] Podcast Launch Strategy[26:13] Social Media Success and Future Plans[32:39] Content Strategy and Trends[37:37] Live Sessions and Audience Interaction[40:41] Patreon and Community Building[42:52] Balancing Social Media and Personal Life[46:09] Maintaining Anonymity and Recognition[52:16] Brand Consistency and Tools[55:21] Podcasting Tips and GoalsLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingWatch Two Guys on a Plane on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@twoguysonaplaneListen to Two Guys on a Plane: https://twoguysonaplane.com/podcastFollow Two Guys on a Plane on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/twoguysonaplane/#Two Guys on a Plane Links: https://twoguysonaplane.com/linkinbioPod Gun T-Shirt:https://ironickpodcasting.myshopify.com/products/pod-gun-t-shirtRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to our community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com and NextGenPodcaster.comPlease note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
Have you ever listened to a podcast where the host gives too much away in the intro? Could this be putting a wall between you and your audience, or will listeners stick around after a heavy intro? Today we explore this idea through Mel Robbins’ introduction of Jay Shetty and what indie podcasters can learn from it. We also examine an intro from Jay Clouse where opinions were mixed, and share tips for making your own intros stronger and more inviting.Episode Highlights: [03:31] Jonathan’s Convention Experience[07:23] Empowered Podcasting Conference Announcement[10:21] Icebreaker Question: What five words describe your podcast?[20:58] Guest Intros: Dos and Don'ts[30:41] Corporate vs. Independent Podcasting[33:47] Strategies and Opinions[41:58] Balancing Content Length and Quality[45:47] Intro Example with Jay Clouse Links & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingEmpowered Podcasting Speaker Application: www.empoweredpodcasting.com/speakersThe Mel Robbins Podcast: https://www.melrobbins.com/podcast/Creator Science with Jay Clouse:https://creatorscience.com/author/jayclouse/Jay Shetty:https://www.jayshetty.me/Remember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to our community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com and NextGenPodcaster.comPlease note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
Apr 25, 2025
291- Should I Delete My Cringeworthy Episodes?
Have you ever listened to your old episodes and can barely get through them? Do you cringe when you hear your voice or how you presented yourself? This is a situation even the most experienced podcasters find themselves in, and today we tackle the dilemma of whether or not to delete episodes that make us tense up inside. Inspired by fellow podcaster Meredith from 'Meredith for Real,' who worries about sponsors seeing her early work, we weigh the pros and cons, hear from experienced podcasters, and explore how authenticity and growth can influence these decisions. To wrap up this amazing week, we celebrate some wins and set intentions for the week ahead. Episode Highlights: [03:58] Debate on Deleting Old Episodes[05:36] Meredith's Dilemma[07:45] Pros and Cons of Removing Episodes[09:58] Personal Experiences with Episode Removal[14:18] Audience Engagement and Analytics[33:14] The Weight of Analytics in Sponsorship Deals[33:49] Balancing Personal Feelings with Podcast Growth[34:57] Reflecting on Early Content and Growth[36:22] The Importance of Content Context[37:52] Handling Old Content and Sponsorships[43:27] The Value of Keeping Cringe Content[47:57] Sharing Wins and Setting GoalsLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingMeredith For Real: www.meredithforreal.comRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to our community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com and NextGenPodcaster.comPlease note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
Apr 24, 2025
290 - What is an Independent Podcaster?
What defines an independent podcaster? Today, our discussion centers around a few core questions: Is it creative control, full ownership, team structure, or a combination of these? We dissect the concept of podcasting independence, which was inspired by our recent discussion surrounding Steven Bartlett's decision to turn down a $100M deal to preserve creative control of his show Diary of a CEO. While having an insightful discussion and sharing experiences, we uncover the blurred lines between autonomy, sponsorship, and network affiliations, ultimately still asking: Can financial success and true creative independence coexist?Episode Highlights: [02:08] A Co-Host's Return and Personal Journey[05:08] Mental Health Awareness Discussion[11:59] Defining Independent Podcasting[33:19] Negotiating Creative Control[33:48] Call Her Daddy Podcast Journey[35:37] Ownership and Independence[37:36] Defining Independent Podcasters[42:38] Creative Control and Sponsorship[50:00] Defining Corporate PodcastersLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingDiary of a CEO: https://stevenbartlett.com/doac/Mental Health Rewritten: https://directory.libsyn.com/shows/view/id/35ad4bf7-5053-460d-83af-01056c7c5feaWhy The Diary Of A CEO Founder Turned Down A $100M Deal To Build A Podcast Empire: https://www.forbes.com/sites/alexyork/2025/04/19/why-the-diary-of-a-ceo-founder-turned-down-a-100m-deal-to-build-a-podcast-empire/Remember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to our community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com and NextGenPodcaster.comPlease note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
How much is your creative freedom worth? Would you compromise creative control for a profit? It’s news day, and today we’re talking about the bold decision of a creator who turned down $100 million to keep control over their podcast. We also explore Spotify’s latest charts, new features from Pocket Casts and Patreon, and upcoming podcast events, and we take a closer look at the latest AI tools for content creators. Episode Highlights: [02:25] Podcasting News and Trends[04:15] Top Podcasts and Rankings[07:38] Upcoming Podcasting Events[14:02] PodPage Features and Benefits[21:11] AI Innovations for Content Creators[28:58] Creepy Yet Impressive AI Animations[30:05] Exploring Video Effects and Prompts[31:58] Canva's New AI Features[34:32] Reddit and Podcasting Communities[36:00] Pocket Casts and Listener Support[39:19] Patreon Introduces Live Streaming[48:10] Turning Down a $100 Million Podcast Deal[57:39] Defining Independent PodcastersLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingPodnews: www.Podnews.net Top Podcast Publishers: https://podscribe.com/top-publishers/april-2025?Miami-Dade/Broward Podcaster Meetup: https://podnews.net/event/miami-dade-broward-podcaster-meetupThe Black Podcast Effect Podcast Festival: https://podnews.net/event/the-black-effect-podcast-festival-2025Empowered Podcasting Conference: https://empoweredpodcasting.comWebby Award Winners: https://podnews.net/press-release/webby-awards-2025ChatGPT Image Library: https://help.openai.com/en/articles/11084440-chatgpt-image-libraryPodpage: https://www.podpage.com/?via=ironickmediaBuzzSprout Reddit:https://www.reddit.com/r/buzzsprout/Simplecast and Headliner Integration: https://blog.simplecast.com/turn-audio-into-engaging-social-video-in-just-a-few-clicksBartlett Turns Down $100M Deal to Preserve Creative Control: https://bit.ly/3EKHSrcMental Health Rewritten: https://www.instagram.com/mentalhealthrewrittenpodcast?igsh=NDB4eWFsZHJ4cDl3Two Guys on a Plane (Patron Example): https://www.patreon.com/TwoGuysonaPlaneRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to our community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com and NextGenPodcaster.comPlease note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
Today, we’re discussing strategies and the impact of incorporating mini episodes into our shows. We examine the potential advantages, such as boosting downloads and enhancing listener engagement, while acknowledging the potential drawbacks, including diluting the impact of the main episodes. Additionally, we share personal experiences and strategies for successfully implementing mini episodes, engaging with listeners, and establishing podcast authority.Episode Highlights: [03:55] The Value of Improv for Content Creators[08:48] Audience Engagement and Mini Episodes[11:13] Strategies for Short-Form Podcast Content[18:16] Balancing Short and Long Episodes[24:20] Creative Ways to Keep Podcast Momentum[25:52] Playlist Strategies for YouTube and Spotify[27:17] Engaging with Listeners Through Mailbag Episodes[29:15] Balancing Content Volume and Listener Engagement[29:52] Planning for Future Podcast Seasons[33:51] Interviewing Listeners for Podcast Improvement[36:35] Monetization Strategies and Listener Engagement[42:59] Pros and Cons of Mini EpisodesLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingMeredith For Real Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/54nwUMOiDrqAcRmNHLasDf?si=6f0babe59f9345b9Remember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to our community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com and NextGenPodcaster.comPlease note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
What do you do when the first piece of negative feedback hits you right in the feels? Today’s episode dives into the emotional sting of criticism — especially for podcasters — and how to process it without derailing your confidence. We dig into real-life stories, practical mindset shifts, and the power of “Let Them Theory” to help you build resilience and stay focused on your podcasting purpose.Plus, we wrap the week with some wins from our community...Episode Highlights: [02:51] Exploring the Emotional Impact of Negative Feedback[16:07] Strategies for Handling Criticism Constructively[28:50] Reframing Thoughts and Controlling Emotional Reactions[41:18] Practical Tips for Dealing with Negative Commentary[49:45] Weekly Wins and Personal Achievements[52:55] Closing Remarks and Conference AnnouncementLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingThe ‘Mailbag’ Question from Reddit:https://www.reddit.com/r/podcasting/comments/1k10ydl/first_negative_review/ The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1878424319 Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins: https://melrobbins.com Empowered Podcasting Conference info + tickets: https://www.empoweredpodcasting.com/Remember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to our community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com and NextGenPodcaster.comPlease note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
Today, I kick things off with an underrated listener growth strategy that came from a simple Facebook Groups thread. From there, we get into a lively conversation about podcast promotion, engagement tactics, and why small steps can lead to big community wins.We also touch on a spike in female podcast listenership, the latest AI-generated image trend (and how to create your own) Nick Nalbach is trying to start, and a midweek meltdown from Spotify (and Zoom) that had creators and listeners scratching their heads. Plus, an important update on music takedowns — and what’s actually changing inside Spotify’s enforcement process.Episode Highlights: [03:52] Growth Hack Strategy and Community Building[10:00] Adding Value Inside Podcasting Communities[20:30] Nick Nalbach’s AI-Generated Action Figures & Retro Twist[31:42] Spotify and Zoom Outages — What Happened?[31:56] Women’s Audio Report: Listenership & Engagement Insights[37:13] Spotify’s Updated Music Policy for Podcasters[48:29] Podcast Advertising Ideas: Overcast, Podcorn & More[48:47] Final Thoughts + What’s Coming Up NextLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingReferenced during today's episode:https://www.podpage.com/pmc/s1e282Nick Nalbach's 'Turn Yourself into a Video Game' AI Images:https://www.instagram.com/ninefivefree/p/DIg9KOpxWZu/?img_index=1Share Your Show With Our Community:https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1G11aqrkX5/Remember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to our community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com and NextGenPodcaster.comPlease note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
In this News & Comment episode, we kick things off with the latest chart data (hello again, Mel Robbins 👀), then unpack what’s fueling the continued rise of true crime shows and why certain podcast genres dominate the charts but not the conversation. Plus, we hear firsthand from cohost, Dominic Lawson about what it’s really like to be nominated for a major award — and not take it home.Also on deck: the rise of book-style audio content and why not all “read aloud” shows are eligible for monetization. Spoiler: some platforms want more than just your voice reading public domain texts. And speaking of platforms, we dive into advertising — from banner ads to animated video experiments to what we’d all do with $500 in podcast promo cash.Episode Highlights: [02:50] Chart Toppers & the Mel Robbins Takeover[06:29] Why Her Podcast Resonates—and What We Can Learn[13:27] Genre Deep Dive: True Crime’s Long Reign[16:49] Virtual Podcast Stores? A Discovery Idea We Loved[20:24] Dominic Lawson on the Ambies & Launching Something New[25:36] Awards Watch: What’s Open for Submissions Now[27:28] PMC’s New Ad Campaign (and Lessons from It)[40:23] Upcoming Events: In-Person & Online[41:02] Audiobook Podcasts: Legal Loopholes & Monetization Limits[44:00] TikTok Reading Trends & a Surprise Influencer Reveal[47:33] Let’s Share Your Show! Community Threads & Support[48:29] If You Had $500… Where Would You Spend It on Promotion?[52:01] Shameless Plug: Meta Ads, SEO, and Making It Work for YouLinks & Resources: The Podcasting Morning Chat: www.podpage.com/pmcJoin The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingPodcasting Morning Chat's New Video Ad:https://www.instagram.com/p/DIhX5vNA82M/?igsh=ZXJpZWR4OG1jM3g5Upcoming Events (thanks to Podnews.net for providing most these): Austin Podcast Social Hour: Apr 16 · Austin, Texas, USARiverside and B&H present: Master Your Setup - Insider Tips for Pro-Level Video Production: May 6 · Virtual · free Podcasters Meet Up: Atlanta: May 7 · Atlanta, Georgia, USAFree Podcaster Happy Hour: London: May 21 · London, England, UKEmpowered Podcasting: Sept 26-28 · Charlotte, NC (Listen to the episode for a coupon code!)Podcast Awards:Publisher Podcast AwardsPara Pod Podcast AwardsIndependent Podcast AwardsW3 AwardsSignals AwardsAnthem AwardsRemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to our community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com and NextGenPodcaster.comPlease note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b