Pump Up Your Pod: Recent Episodes
Bamby Media
Every entrepreneur by now has probably been told that having a podcast is great for business. But why is it so good? How do you actually grow your show and reach your target audience? There are a lot of questions and I'm here to answer them.I’ll be sharing tips, providing training, answering your questions down to the nitty-gritty stuff and generally supporting you to help you pump up your podcast and have fun doing it. When you do it right, your business, your personal brand and your reach is only ever going to expand. What’s not to love about that?
Apple Podcasts has officially moved into video podcasting, and it’s a bigger shift than a lot of podcasters realise. With support for HLS video, Apple will now allow creators to publish video podcasts on Apple Podcasts and give listeners the option to switch between audio and video in the same feed. In this episode, I break down what this update actually means for podcasters and whether it’s something you should be paying attention to right now.
I cover how Apple Podcasts video works, what HLS streaming actually is in simple terms, and why this matters if you’re already publishing video podcasts on YouTube or Spotify. If you’ve been wondering whether Apple entering the video space changes your podcast distribution strategy, this video will help you understand where it fits and whether it’s worth adding to your workflow.
I also talk about the practical side of video podcast production. That includes the extra costs that come with cameras, lighting, good audio, and creating a setup that actually looks good on screen. Not every podcast needs video, and not every creator should feel pressured to jump into video podcasting straight away. If your show works best as an audio-first podcast, that is still completely valid.
I also get into the bigger questions around podcast monetisation, Apple Podcasts analytics, and whether uploading your show as a video podcast on Apple Podcasts could hurt your YouTube views or YouTube monetisation. If you’re a podcaster, content creator, or business owner trying to decide between audio vs video podcasting, this episode will help you think it through clearly.
CHAPTER MARKERS
00:00 Apple Podcasts Adds Video
00:39 What Is HLS Video Streaming?
01:54 What This Means for Podcasters
02:54 Podcast Hosts Supporting Apple Video
04:13 Why Apple Video Podcasts Matter
06:42 Who Should Start Video Podcasting
08:36 Video Podcasting Pros and Cons
09:40 Will People Watch Video Podcasts on Apple?
11:52 Apple Podcast Ads and Analytics
14:13 Why YouTube Still Leads Video Podcasting
15:55 Big Questions About Apple Video Podcasts
17:18 My Podcast Platform Strategy
19:41 Final Thoughts on Apple Video Podcasts
20:26 Outro and Goodbye
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Our Learn Descript Program (http://www.bambyacademy.com/learndescript)
Monetising Your Podcast Course (https://www.bambyacademy.com/offers/8L4n4qQZ/checkout)
YouTube Channel (https://www.youtube.com/@bambymedia)
Our Services (https://www.bambymedia.com/services)
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA
SE Dyncaster DCM8 (https://amzn.to/3SEWnkM)
Elgato Wave Pro Arm (https://amzn.to/43DYUAG)
Rode PSA1+ (https://amzn.to/4oNn589)
Shure MV7+ (https://amzn.to/3ScRe2g)
Elgato Wave Mic Pro (https://puyp.captivate.fm/elgato-wave-pro)
XLR Cables (https://amzn.to/3rkw0VO)
Sony ZV E10 (https://amzn.to/3D0PP7h)
Elgato Camlink (https://amzn.to/44e534X)
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light (https://amzn.to/3XGyGcx)
Aputure Light Box Min (https://amzn.to/46yVxuG)
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+ (https://amzn.to/3NIr0SD)
Rode Streamer X (https://amzn.to/49EOamv)
Rodecaster Pro II (https://amzn.to/3In1QH1)
Rodecaster Pro Duo (https://amzn.to/3Io09J9)
Is the Fifine Amplitank Tank 3 actually good, or just another cheap microphone that sounds terrible? After extensive testing at Bamby Media, I'm breaking down exactly what this budget-friendly mic does well and where it falls short.
I'm usually skeptical of inexpensive audio gear - if it's cheap, it's often poor quality. But the Tank 3 surprised me with its performance at this price point. That said, it's not perfect, and I'm covering all the issues you need to know about before buying.
What You'll Learn:
✅ Build quality and setup process (true plug-and-play USB)
✅ Real sound quality testing - vocals and singing
✅ Plosive handling issues (you'll need a pop filter)
✅ Sibilance problems and how to fix them in post
✅ USB vs XLR sound differences
✅ Bottom end performance and preamp requirements
✅ Who should actually buy this microphone
The Tank 3 has legitimate limitations including poor plosive control, noticeable sibilance, and weaker bottom-end performance. But when you consider the price point, it delivers impressive value for beginner podcasters, musicians recording demos, and content creators who need better audio than their laptop microphone.
This is an honest review with real-world testing - no hype, just practical insights to help you decide if this microphone fits your needs.
Perfect for: Beginner podcasters, musicians on a budget, content creators, online educators, remote workers upgrading their audio.
Full disclosure: Fifine provided the Tank 3 for review. This is my honest assessment after real-world testing. Affiliate links below - I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
CHAPTER MARKERS
00:00 Fifine Amplitank Tank 3 Review - Introduction
01:12 Unboxing the Budget Podcast Microphone - What's Included
03:05 Build Quality & Design - Affordable Studio Mic Construction
05:20 Setup & Features - USB Microphone for Beginners Guide
07:45 Microphone Sound Test - Plosive Test
09:10 Sibilance Test - High Frequency Response
10:30 Vocal Performance Test - Singing with Best Beginner Mic
12:15 Real-World Use & Sound Analysis - XLR vs USB Comparison
14:00 Pros and Cons - Budget Podcast Microphone Performance
15:30 Final Verdict - Is This the Best Beginner Mic for $79?
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Monetising Your Podcast Course
Our Learn Descript Program
Try Descript
GEAR WE USE TO PRODUCE THIS PODCAST:
Amplitank Tank 3:
https://amzn.to/4rlHJ0S
SE Dyncaster DCM8
https://amzn.to/3SEWnkM
Satechi Hub:
https://amzn.to/4bhuDtD
Elgato Wave Mic Arm Pro
https://amzn.to/3HfOUoM
XLR Cables:
https://amzn.to/3SJyIje
Focusrite Clarett+:
https://amzn.to/3UpqrSM
Sony ZV E10 Mk 11
https://amzn.to/3MLXcnO
Elgato Camlink:
https://amzn.to/4bjgYCe
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light:
https://amzn.to/4bhFXGe
Aputure Light Box Mini:
https://amzn.to/3u55T7m
If you're building a home recording studio, you've already discovered that you can’t really have a microphone without some sort of stand to get it in the right position. The desk stand versus boom arm debate is one of the most common questions I see from new podcasters and content creators, and the answer isn't as straightforward as most online advice suggests.
Some people swear by the boom arm.
Others would rather a neat little desk stand.
After testing the Elgato Wave Desk Stand (provided by Elgato for review) and configuring studio setups for clients at Bamby Media for years, I can tell you exactly when desk stands work, when boom arms are the better choice, and what factors actually matter for your specific setup.
Choosing the right mic stand or boom arm can make a world of difference in your content creation process. Don’t underestimate the impact of a comfortable, clutter-free setup. It’s the foundation for great audio and a smooth workflow.
Full disclosure: Elgato sent me the Wave Desk Stand to try out, but this review is entirely my own. No payment, no script, no expectations. Just my honest take after real-world use. If you decide to purchase through the links below, I may earn a small commission as an Amazon affiliate (thank you in advance).
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
- Our Learn Descript Program
- Monetising Your Podcast Course
- YouTube Channel
- Our Services
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA
- Elgato Wave Desk Stand
- SE Dyncaster DCM8
- Elgato Wave Pro Arm
- Rode PSA1+
- Shure MV7+
- Elgato Wave Mic Pro
- XLR Cables
- Sony ZV E10
- Elgato Camlink
- Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
- Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
"You need at least 10,000 downloads per episode before sponsors will even look at you."
If I had a dollar for every time I've heard this in podcasting circles, I'd have enough to sponsor someone's show myself. This advice has convinced countless podcasters that monetisation is off-limits until they hit some arbitrary download threshold. It's not just misleading, it's costing you money right now.
After helping dozens of podcasters at Bamby Media secure their first sponsors, I can tell you that smaller shows have a distinct advantage that most creators haven’t explored: micro sponsorship.
In this episode, I explain what micro sponsorship is, how it works, who to target and how much to charge.
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Our Learn Descript Program
Monetising Your Podcast Course
YouTube Channel
Our Services
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Elgato Wave Mic Pro
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
Recent data from The Podcast Study reveals exactly why listeners abandon podcasts, and the results had me nodding my head in agreement vigorously. This comprehensive research into listener behaviour patterns is so valuable to every podcaster whether you’re an audio-only or video podcast. After analysing the findings of this study alongside our experience working with hundreds of podcast creators at Bamby Media, I can tell you the reasons people tune out are completely preventable - if you know what to fix.
The Podcast Study deserves significant recognition for conducting this essential research. Understanding listener behaviour isn't just curiosity - it's crucial intelligence that helps podcasters create better content and build sustainable audiences. Their comprehensive analysis of what makes listeners engage versus what drives them away filled me with gratitude.
This type of data-driven research is invaluable for our industry. Too often, podcasters operate on assumptions about what their audience wants rather than evidence-based insights. The Podcast Study's work gives creators concrete direction for improving their content and retention rates.
You can access The Podcast Study's full research here.
I also did a full breakdown of the data over on YouTube.
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Our Learn Descript Program
YouTube Channel
Our Services
In a world of doom scrolling and quick fixes, how do you get someone to actually stay on your content long enough to turn them into fans or listen to what you have to say?
One element that makes a huge difference is the music that you use in your content.
Music creates the vibe. It immediately gives the viewer or listener something to grab onto, and it sets them up for the experience that they’re going to have with your content.
In my opinion, loads of creators don’t spend long enough on this crucial step. You want to set the right mood. You want to be in charge of your “sonic branding”, and the right track can do this for you.
But here's the problem: finding music that elevates your content rather than making it sound like everyone else's is genuinely challenging.
Every content creator knows this frustration: you need a track that's professional, copyright-safe, and doesn't sound like every other video in your feed.
Traditional licensing meant grovelling to publishers for rights and paying premium rates for basic usage. Modern platforms like Artlist, Musicbed, and Soundstripe solved the accessibility problem but created a new one: limited variety at scale.
I was recently approached by Audiosocket - a music library that I hadn’t used before. They asked me whether I’d be interested in trying their service, giving them some feedback, and potentially becoming an affiliate for them. This happens more frequently these days thanks to people enjoying my YouTube and podcast content, but I’m also always wary of saying “yes” to reach-outs like this.
My thoughts need to be my own, and I’m not going to be affiliated with a brand just so that I can make a few extra bucks. That’s not my M.O.
So, I was in fact pleasantly surprised after using Audiosocket that I didn’t have to rip them to shreds for being terrible.
They are, in fact a great music library with an absolute stack of fantastic songs.
What a relief that is. I can now happily talk about them, recommend them to you and be an affiliate without needing to sell my soul.
10% off Audiosocket with the code "BAMBY10"
https://audiosocket.com/?fpr=bambymedia
CHAPTER MARKERS
00:00 Introduction: Building Your Personal Brand with Video
00:57 The Challenge of Finding Good Music
02:57 The Solution: Music Libraries
04:11 Introducing Audiosocket
04:55 My Experience with Audiosocket
06:30 Why Audiosocket Stands Out
11:36 Final Thoughts and Discount Code
"Do I really sound like that?"
After editing thousands of hours of podcast content at Bamby Media, I can tell you this reaction is universal. It’s so common to have that moment of vocal horror when you hear your recorded voice for the first time. The way you think you sound can often be very different to how you actually sound, and it can be really confronting.
Maybe you’re a mumbler, speed talker, “ummmm”er or you’re just boring as hell. It’s all valid, and I’ve heard it all.
The good news? Most vocal issues that make you cringe are completely fixable with the right techniques. In this videdo I will give you some tips to help you out.
CHAPTER MARKERS:
00:00 Introduction: Overcoming Voice Insecurities
00:22 Warm-Up Techniques for a Better Sound
00:48 Common Voice Issues and How to Fix Them
02:05 Slowing Down Your Speech
04:59 The Power of Pausing
07:06 Improving Your Vocal Tone
10:42 Using Melody in Your Voice
12:35 Learning from the Experts
13:43 Conclusion and Final Tips
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Book A Consultation
Custom Review Of Your Audio/Edit
YouTube Channel
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Elgato Wave Mic Pro
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
How often do you start recording and then feel like you need to clear a bunch of gunk from your throat?
You didn’t feel all gunked up beforehand, why is it happening just as you started recording?
Mostly it’s due to not preparing your voice for recording before you started. You’re coming into the recording with a “cold” voice. Just like an athlete or a musician needs to warm up before they begin, so do podcasters. It’s not just podcasters either. If you’re preparing to record your audiobook or video content, these warm ups will really help you achieve a clearer, more relaxed sound.
CHAPTER MARKERS
00:00 Introduction to Vocal Warm-Ups for Podcasters
01:22 Breathing Techniques to Calm Nerves
03:43 Silly but Effective Vocal Exercises
06:08 Projection and Siren Exercises
08:00 Tongue Twisters for Pronunciation
09:17 Final Tips for Recording
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Book A Consultation
Custom Review Of Your Audio/Edit
YouTube Channel
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Elgato Wave Mic Pro
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
Joe Rogan's $250 million Spotify deal and Smartless' $100 million Sirius XM contract aren't just industry anomalies - they're proof of podcasting's massive revenue potential. In fact, the podcasting industry is now a 7.2 billion dollar industry and counting.
I know you can look at those numbers and think, “Yeah, but that’s only for the really big shows”. But the reality is, there’s money to be made as an independent creator with a small listenership. You’ve just got to be willing to put in the work and get creative. After producing hundreds of podcasts with independent creators, I've identified which approaches deliver results for shows of all sizes.
In this episode, I break down what we’ve found to be the best ways to monetise your podcast.
CHAPTER MARKERS
00:00 Introduction: The Big Money in Podcasting
00:31 Making Money Without Millions of Listeners
01:54 Sponsorships: The Bread and Butter
03:14 Memberships: Crowdsourcing Your Show
04:10 Selling Your Knowledge and IP
05:45 Live Experiences: Engaging Your Audience
07:07 Products and Merchandising
08:28 YouTube: Expanding Your Reach
09:30 Podcast Networks: Joining Forces
10:24 Affiliate Marketing: Easy Income
11:17 Conclusion: Start Small, Think Big
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Podcast Monetisation Mini-Course
YouTube Channel
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
Shure MV7+
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Elgato Wave Mic Pro
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
Let's cut straight to the point: the Shure MV7 Plus positions itself as the Swiss Army knife of microphones. With both XLR and USB capabilities in one sleek package, it's targeting everyone from podcast beginners to audio professionals.
But after putting it through rigorous testing at Bamby Media's production studio, I can tell you exactly where it shines and where it falls short.
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Book A Consultation
Custom Review Of Your Audio/Edit
YouTube Channel
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
Shure MV7+
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Elgato Wave Mic Pro
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
To audio podcast or video podcast…that is the question.
It is in fact, the question that I get the most during consultations with potential (or existing) clients.
They’re trying to make a decision as to whether an audio only podcast fits their needs, or whether they need to invest in video and it’s all a bit confusing.
I will say straight up - there is no one size fits all answer to this as every show is different, and their goals are different. But there are a few key points that are worth taking into consideration when you’re trying to make this decision for yourself.
CHAPTER MARKERS
00:00 Introduction: Audio vs. Video Podcasts
00:45 The Simplicity of Audio-Only Podcasts
03:30 The Cost and Production of Audio vs. Video
06:15 The Appeal and Impact of Video Podcasts
08:40 The Benefits of Combining Audio and Video
16:13 Engagement and Community Building on YouTube
19:19 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Book A Consultation
Custom Review Of Your Audio/Edit
YouTube Channel
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Elgato Wave Mic Pro
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
I’ve tested and used a lot of podcasting equipment at this point in my career.
Before I was a podcast producer, I was a musician, so the love of gear runs deep. Anything that I can get my hands on that is going to improve the sound or the functionality of my setup is something I get very excited about.
I also feel like at this point I’ve learned the difference between good and great and I’m quite partial to a gear battle.
So here we are. We’ve got two microphone boom arms in the arena that I have rigorously tested. The Elgato Wave Mic Pro and Rode PSA1+. They’ve both been tested in the studio here at Bamby Media HQ, and out on location in various recording environments. I’ve narrowed the battle down to a few key areas that are worth taking into consideration.
Ladies and gentlemen, let’s begin.
CHAPTER MARKERS
00:00 Introduction: The Battle Elgato Wave Mic Pro vs Rode PSA1+
00:53 Boom Arm Aesthetics: Elgato vs. Rode
03:35 Cable Management Showdown
06:10 Noise and Sound Test
10:00 Setup and Customization
12:50 Branding and Final Thoughts
15:41 Conclusion and Personal Anecdote
Full disclosure: Elgato sent me this Wave Mic Pro but all opinions are my own. They did not instruct me to make a video, an article, a podcast episode. They have had no input into my decision to battle or review this product. I purchased the Rode PSA1+ myself. No sponsorships influenced these findings - just real-world experience from hours of professional use.
Where to Elgato Wave Mic Arm Pro:
Australia - Amazon
USA - Elgato Website
Where to Buy Rode PSA1+
Australia - Amazon
USA - Amazon
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Book A Consultation
Custom Review Of Your Audio/Edit
YouTube Channel
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Elgato Wave Mic Pro
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
After a decade of producing podcasts with millions of downloads and testing countless pieces of audio gear at Bamby Media, let me cut straight to the chase: The Elgato Wave Mic Pro low profile boom arm is worth your attention.
Full disclosure: Elgato sent me this piece of kit, no strings attached. I didn’t have to review it, I didn’t have to record a video about it. The product was so just flippin’ good I felt compelled tell you all about it. My recommendations are always based on actual performance in professional production environments.
For serious audio professionals, this boom arm eliminates the common frustrations we've all experienced with lesser equipment. While the price point sits higher than plastic alternatives, the professional build quality and reliable performance make it a great investment for long-term use. I don’t see a reason why you’d ever need to buy another one. Unless your studio space is increasing and you just need more booms!
CHAPTER MARKERS
00:00 Introduction to the Elgato Low Profile Pro Boom Arm
00:41 First Impressions and Build Quality
02:03 Magnetic Cable Management
03:07 Silent Adjustments and Suspension Technology
03:54 Low Profile Design Benefits
06:33 Adapters and Compatibility
07:11 Pricing and Final Thoughts
07:59 Conclusion and Upcoming Reviews
Where to Buy:
Australia - Amazon
USA - Elgato Website
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Book A Consultation
Custom Review Of Your Audio/Edit
YouTube Channel
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Elgato Wave Mic Pro
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
A little over a year ago I decided to start a YouTube channel for the Bamby Media brand.
Not because we were searching for more clients, chasing extra revenue or I as the founder was interested in becoming a full-time content creator.
Our mission was simple:
Build a YouTube channel that serves as our live testing ground - a place where we could experiment, fail, and succeed with content strategies before implementing them for our clients' channels.
We needed to be the guinea pigs for strategies we wanted our clients to try.
That is what landed me on YouTube creating content once a week.
Over the last 12 months, I have learned many lessons that I felt would be valuable for the aspiring YouTuber to take into consideration.
So here they are for you.
You’re welcome.
CHAPTER MARKERS
00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Video
00:35 Background and Initial YouTube Journey
01:14 Monetization Milestones and Early Experiences
02:32 Key Lessons for New YouTubers
04:05 Consistency and Content Quality
07:23 Engaging with the YouTube Community
08:46 Thumbnails, Titles, and Tools
10:40 Content Consumption and Scripting
12:43 Unexpected Successes and Viewer Needs
15:28 Finding Joy and Building Systems
18:03 Tracking Revenue and Subscriber Insights
21:50 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Podcast Content Calendar
Book A Consultation
Custom Review Of Your Audio/Edit
YouTube Channel
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
Is it too much to ask that we have a one-stop production suite for podcasters?
All I want is a way to record episodes remotely, edit them to my exact specifications and then upload them to podcast platforms and/or YouTube for one monthly subscription fee.
I don’t want to use a heap of different tools and sharing files across multiple platforms.
I just want one place to handle it all.
This used to be something I thought to myself as I worked away on podcasts, and it felt completely out of reach.
Surely no one-stop shop would exist. It’s too much for one software to handle.
Well, Descript is trying its hardest to give me exactly what I asked for.
But it’s not succeeding yet.
In this episode, I break down where Descript Rooms is at, and why I don’t recommend it for remote recording.
CHAPTER MARKERS
00:00 Introduction to Podcast Recording
00:57 Overview of Descript Rooms
02:31 Testing Descript Rooms
03:25 Issues with Descript Rooms
06:22 Final Recommendations
RESOURCES MENTIONED:
Descript
Riverside.fm
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Podcast Content Calendar
Book A Consultation
Custom Review Of Your Audio/Edit
YouTube Channel
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
After a decade in podcast production and millions of downloads across our client roster at Bamby Media, I can tell you this with absolute certainty: podcast editing can make or break your podcast's success.
I’ve judged countless podcasting awards such as The Webby’s, Australian Podcast Awards, Signal Awards, Independent Podcast Awards and I’ve heard the full gamut of podcast production.
We’ve also launched and worked on probably close to one thousand podcasts over the last decade here at Bamby Media and it’s clear that success lies in the details.
Before I begin this episode, let me caveat by saying that some podcasts can get away with very limited, or no editing. I understand this. What I’m about to share isn’t a blanket rule that every podcaster must follow. This is just what I’ve noticed more broadly for most podcasts.
CHAPTER MARKERS
00:00 The Crucial Role of Podcast Editing
00:38 First Impressions Matter
02:28 Respecting Your Listeners' Time
03:49 Sounding Professional
05:24 Enhancing Story Flow
06:57 Removing Distractions
07:38 Gaining a Competitive Edge
08:07 Protecting Your Brand
09:22 Improving Guest Experience
10:21 Monetization Potential
11:33 Ensuring Long-Term Success
12:59 Final Thoughts on Podcast Editing
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Podcast Content Calendar
Book A Consultation
Custom Review Of Your Audio/Edit
YouTube Channel
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
As someone who has worked in podcast production for over a decade, at this point I can say I’ve tried pretty much every software there is. When I was thinking about the DIY podcasters among us, the question I posed myself was simple:
Can you do a good enough job of recording and editing your podcast just with free tools, or is it worthwhile investing in a more robust paid option?
Whether you're recording your first episode or ready to level up your podcast production game, I'm about to break down the real MVPs of podcast software - both the wallet-friendly gems and the worth-every-penny investments that actually deserve your hard-earned cash.
In this episode, I’ll be breaking down the best free and paid software tools for podcasters currently available.
While the podcast recording and editing options are quite vast, the trick is to find software that aligns with your needs and skills. Whether you're looking for a simple setup with GarageBand or Audacity, or aiming for full-fledged production powerhouses like DaVinci Resolve or Adobe's suite, there's something here for you.
CHAPTER MARKERS
00:00 Introduction to Podcast Recording Tools
00:49 Free Podcast Recording Tools
02:47 Using Your Phone for Recording
03:52 Free Video Editing Software for Podcasters
05:10 Paid Podcast Recording Tools
08:32 Paid Video Editing Software
09:13 Final Recommendations and Wrap Up
RESOURCES MENTIONED:
Audacity
Descript
Riverside.fm
Davinci Resolve
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Podcast Content Calendar
Book A Consultation
Custom Review Of Your Audio/Edit
YouTube Channel
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
In today's video, I'm comparing two powerhouse AI audio background removal tools: Descript Studio Sound and Adobe V2. As someone who's produced podcasts for over a decade, I know the struggle of dealing with less-than-perfect audio, so I'm putting these tools through their paces to help you make the best choice for your show.
I'll walk you through real-world scenarios we face daily at Bamby Media - from pesky car noise to those annoying clothing rustles (we've all been there! 😅). Whether you're recording without a proper mic or dealing with room echo, I've got you covered with practical solutions and honest feedback on what actually works.
CHAPTER MARKERS
00:00 Introduction to Audio Fixing Tools
00:14 Overview of Descript Studio Sound and Adobe V2
00:24 Pre-recorded Audio Samples
01:27 Testing Car Noise Removal
05:33 Evaluating Rubbing Noise Reduction
08:44 Handling No Microphone Audio
10:28 Fixing Distant Microphone Audio
12:16 Final Thoughts and Recommendations
13:42 Conclusion and Custom Review Offer
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Podcast Content Calendar
Book A Consultation
Custom Review Of Your Audio/Edit
YouTube Channel
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
Choosing the right microphone can make or break your content.
That might sound a bit dramatic, and to be honest it probably is.
I know for most creators it might not be a huge deal if you go with a dynamic microphone when a condenser microphone would have been better suited.
Sure, a slightly different range in frequency response isn’t going to be noticed by the majority of people consuming your content.
But there is something so satisfying and almost unquantifiable about listening to audio that has been captured the right way with the right equipment.
With that in mind, I went looking for the best wireless microphone system for content creators.
As I started looking at what creators were already using, the Rode Wireless Pro and DJI Mic 2 emerged as direct competitors.
And so began the tests.
I’ve been using these two systems for a solid four months on locations that I know a content creator would go: hotel rooms with concrete floors, windy outdoor environments, city streets, the beach, studios and multi-speaker podcast panel discussions.
In each location, I’ve made sure to compare not only the ease of use, portability and functionality of each system but more importantly the sound quality.
If you’ve been trying to decide between the Rode Wireless Pro and DJI Mic 2, let this podcast episode be your guide.
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Podcast Content Calendar
Book A Consultation
Free Podcast Audit Service
YouTube Channel
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
Rode Wireless Pro
DJI Mic 2
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
If you're a founder still lurking behind your company logo like it's your last line of defence, I've got news for you: your business needs YOUR face, not just your fancy branding and pictures of your team or thriving office culture.
Though those things are nice, a potential customer has nothing to hold onto. We buy from people, not businesses.
That’s why you need to be building your personal brand, and I feel like podcasting is the cheat code you’ve been searching for.
Now, before you roll your eyes at this article thinking 'not another personal brand lecture,' roll those eyes back into their appropriate location and give me a few minutes of your time.
This podcast episode will show you why a podcast can solve your problems.
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Podcast Content Calendar
Book A Consultation
Free Podcast Audit Service
YouTube Channel
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
It's a special day for me—my birthday! 🎉 And what better way to celebrate than combining two of my loves: music and microphones? So, join me on this little auditory adventure as we dive into some budget-friendly microphone options that are perfect for vocalists.
I've gathered a selection of XLR and USB microphones, a lineup that includes the SE DCM8, SE Neom, Rode NT USB Mini, Rode PodMic (in both USB and XLR formats), and the Shure MV7 (also in both formats). My goal? To sing a section of one of my unfinished songs and see which microphone captures my voice with the best clarity and tone.
00:00 Birthday Excitement and Favorite Gifts
00:41 Microphone Testing Plan
02:03 Microphone Lineup and Song Performance
03:40 Microphone Reviews and Impressions
09:52 Final Thoughts and Recommendations
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Podcast Content Calendar
Book A Consultation
Free Podcast Audit Service
YouTube Channel
GEAR WE USED TO MAKE THIS EPISODE:
SE DynaCaster DCM8
Rode PodMic:
Shure MV7
SE Neom
NT-USB Mini:
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
If I were to start a podcast in 2025, here's exactly what I'd do, drawing from my decade of experience as the head honcho of Bamby Media. We've launched nearly 500 shows, so I've learned a thing or two about what works in this ever-evolving industry. Whether you're a seasoned content creator or just dipping your toes into the podcasting world, these tips will help you make your mark.
00:00 Introduction and Credentials
00:30 Essential Equipment: Microphone and Boom Arm
01:41 Planning Your Content: 50 Topic Ideas
02:13 Audio vs. Video: Making the Choice
03:09 Promoting Your Podcast: Social Media and More
04:03 Batch Recording: Scheduling and Consistency
04:47 Podcast Artwork: First Impressions Matter
05:33 Getting Help: Launch Packages and Support
07:14 Defining Your Unique Value
08:30 Monetization: Offerings from Day One
09:41 Outsourcing Editing: Focus on Content
11:07 Choosing a Hosting Platform
11:48 Final Steps: Releasing and Focusing on Quality
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Podcast Content Calendar
Book A Consultation
Free Podcast Audit Service
YouTube Channel
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
Today I’m taking you behind-the-scenes to the inner workings of Bamby Media throughout 2024. I reflect on the year's pros and cons, discuss the impact of AI on podcast production, and explore how smoother processes and systems contributed to a calm work environment. I also take a look at personal achievements, challenges with software, and the effects of AI-generated podcasts.
Additionally, the episode touches upon the significance of the Bamby Media YouTube channel, free podcast audits, and team upskilling. We round off with future aspirations and the new studio space that is coming in 2025.
00:00 Introduction and Unexpected Challenges
02:12 Reflections on 2024: Pros
02:20 The Impact of AI on Our Workflow
03:33 Calmer Year and Improved Processes
05:52 Personal Growth and New Ventures
06:53 YouTube Channel Success
08:21 Client Engagement and New Services
09:13 Team Development and Training
12:40 Travel and Industry Recognition
14:15 Significant Client Growth
16:25 Cons and Areas for Improvement
22:38 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Podcast Content Calendar
Book A Consultation
Free Podcast Audit Service
YouTube Channel
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
I take a look at Spotify's recent announcement of their rebrand to 'Spotify for Creators' for podcasters and its impact on audio podcasting. I review the new monetization requirements on Spotify, comparing them with YouTube's more lenient YouTube Creator Program and monetisation options for audio-only shows.
I discuss the potential shift towards video podcasting, the challenges smaller creators may face, and the different revenue models of Spotify and YouTube. Featuring insights from an interview with Spotify CEO Daniel Elk that Colin and Samir did on their podcast, we'll examine the pros and cons of Spotify's approach and what it means for the future of podcasting.
Resources Mentioned:
Colin and Samir interview Daniel Ek
Spotify for Creators
Captivate
Spotify Revenue Share
Imgur
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Podcast Content Calendar
Book A Consultation
Free Podcast Audit Service
YouTube Channel
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
As the festive season approaches, the question of whether to take a break from releasing podcast episodes over Christmas and New Year often looms large, especially for podcasters.
It's a time when many are eager to unwind, enjoy family time, and perhaps forget about their usual routines. But is a break the best move for your podcast? I’ve trawled through the data we collect from our own client roster and the podcasting industry more broadly to give you my take.
Podcasting is an evolving and growing medium, drawing people away from algorithm-driven platforms to more meaningful interactions with the content they love. By staying consistent, especially over the Christmas period, you'll be ready to leap into the New Year, taking advantage of the increased listener engagement.
I hope this gives you the clarity and confidence to keep those episodes rolling, even through the holiday season. I know it’s a lot of work, and I also appreciate that you simply might need a break.
It’s okay if you don’t take my advice and instead fall in a heap for a couple of weeks. I get it.
At the end of the day, it’s your show so you can do whatever you want. That’s the beauty of the medium. I’m just here to give you a bit of a push if you’re open to it.
Resources Mentioned:
PodPoll - Deadset Studios
Podcast Landscape 2024 - Sounds Profitable
The Podcast Election - Scott Galloway
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Podcast Content Calendar
Book A Consultation
Free Podcast Audit Service
YouTube Channel
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
As the wireless microphone offerings expand, so does my need to review them. Traditionally, the wireless microphone space was a bit lacklustre. They had clunky receivers that you had to try to hide under your clothes, the connections would drop out and the ability to connect seamlessly to a smartphone was rare.
Today, that is no longer the case.
We’ve got Rode, DJI, Hollyland and Sennheiser as well as many others all putting their hats into the ring and today I’m putting the DJI Mic 2 to the test.
As a podcast producer with over 60 clients globally, I'm always on the hunt for audio and video equipment that can simplify our client workflow while delivering top-notch quality. If you're in the same boat, or perhaps just curious about whether this kit holds its ground against competitors like the Rode Wireless Pro, keep reading.
I've spent the last month and a half putting the DJI Mic 2 through its paces across a variety of environments—from the roaring waves of the beach, to the tranquil hinterland of Byron Bay, and within the confines of my home studio. My aim? To see how this system performs under different conditions and with varying sound profiles.
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Book A Consultation
Free Podcast Audit Service
YouTube Channel
Apply to Join PodCoach
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
DJI Mic 2
sE Neom
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
In the words of Mariah Carey, “All I Want For Christmas Is…Microphones”.
I’m sure when she originally sang “you”, Mariah was actually thinking about a particular microphone that she had her eye on. Perhaps swooning over a rather special condenser microphone that highlights the sparkly frequencies in her voice.
It’s plausible and I won’t let you tell me otherwise. I am not being ridiculous.
Today we’re jumping into an extensive list of podcasting equipment to help you stop analysing all the potential options that are available on the market, and just purchase something already.
I hope it helps!
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Book A Consultation
YouTube Channel
Apply to Join PodCoach
GEAR I MENTIONED:
Rode NT USB Mini
SE Neom
USB/XLR Hybrid Microphones:
Rode PodMic USB XLR
Shure MV7+
XLR Microphones:
SE DCM8
Shure SM7dB:
Going Wireless
Rode Wireless Pro
Cables & Accessories
Mogami
Rode
Elgato
Pre-Amps
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen
Rodecaster Duo
Rodecaster Pro II
Stands & Arms
Rode PSA1
Elgato Wave
Headphones: An Essential
Audio Technica ATH M20X
Beyerdynamic DT 990
Cameras & Visual Equipment
Sony ZV E10 Mk II
Elgato Cam Link
micro to HDMI
Webcams:
Elgato Facecam Pro
Insta360 Link 2
Lighting Options
Aputure Amaran 200X combined with a Light Dome Mini
Elgato Key Light Air
SmallRig stands
Oh my, do I have a lovely microphone to show you today!
The sE Neom microphone presents an intriguing option for podcasters seeking USB-only solutions.
With its distinct design, on-brand red meshing, gunmetal colouring and unique features, the sE Neom aims to carve out a niche in a crowded USB microphone market.
I have been testing this microphone now for about 6 months in a variety of locations and use cases. As a podcaster myself and a producer of over 50 podcasts, I’m always looking for microphones to recommend to my community.
So I decided to put this one to the test.
Thanks to Chris from Sound-Music for sending me this microphone! They’re a great bunch of humans based out of Melbourne who distribute the best gear to audio/production stores around Australia.
—
00:00 Introduction to SE Neom Microphone
00:31 Microphone Features and Controls
01:59 Sound Quality and Pop Filter Issues
04:08 Microphone Performance in Different Settings
06:13 Proximity Effect and Singing Test
09:14 Final Thoughts and Recommendations
11:23 Conclusion and Upcoming Comparisons
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Book A Consultation
Free Podcast Audit Service
YouTube Channel
Apply to Join PodCoach
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
sE Neom
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
I used to be quasi-famous.
It was a long time ago and not a place I particularly want to revisit, but as I reflected on how I built Bamby Media into the successful business it is today, there has been one key ingredient.
An unfair advantage.
This podcast episode is my origin story. I hope you enjoy it.
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Book A Consultation
Free Podcast Audit Service
YouTube Channel
Apply to Join PodCoach
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
Have you ever wondered what it's like to listen to 200 AI-generated podcasts?
“No. That’s ridiculous. Why would anyone do that?” I hear you say.
I’m flaky on the “why” myself, but the thing is, I did it and those are hours of my life I will never get back.
I listened to 200 fake podcasts generated with NotebookLM to see for myself whether the podcasting industry is about to come crumbling down.
Although I went slightly insane throughout this experience, I feel it was well worth it. I definitely never want to hear the phrase “deep dive” again, but other than that I’ve ventured out of this mess mostly unscathed.
00:00 Introduction: Overwhelmed by AI Podcasts
00:32 The Rise of AI-Generated Podcasts
02:32 Deep Dive into AI Podcast Content
03:23 The Banter and Repetition Problem
04:49 Lack of Authenticity in AI Hosts
07:55 Potential and Future of AI Podcasts
10:13 Conclusion: Final Thoughts on AI Podcasts
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Book A Consultation
Free Podcast Audit Service
YouTube Channel
Apply to Join PodCoach
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
You’re about to start a podcast and you’ve decided you want to edit it yourself.
At first, this seems like it should be fairly straightforward.
Get the audio/video, make a few adjustments, cut a bit of the nonsense out and you should have something that’s good enough to release.
But then you start researching online what software you should use to edit your show and everybody and their dog has an opinion on what software to choose.
And for some reason, the editors of the world are quite adamant that their tool is the best one to use. There can be no other winners.
Unfortunately, a lot of the information you find online may lead you down the path of complex editing tools that make you want to throw your computer out a window.
And as a long-time editor myself with almost two decades of experience working with audio and video, I can sometimes be a bit of a snob too.
I do have clear favourites and if I’m amongst other seasoned editors, no doubt we would have a healthy debate about why what we use is supreme.
But that’s not the purpose of today dear reader.
Today, I want to help distil the endless possibilities that you’re presented with as a DIY podcast editor, into a comparison of two tools that there has been quite a lot of discussion about online. Descript vs. Riverside.fm.
You’ve probably heard of Riverside.fm with its super convenient virtual meeting capabilities. It’s been a trusty sidekick for recording interviews remotely. It wasn't long ago that Riverside started offering editing capabilities too. Smart, right? If you're already using Riverside, you might think, "Hey, why not just edit here too?"
But is it as good as it sounds?
On the flip side, there's Descript – an editing tool that, truth be told, had a rough start years ago as it was a pretty bad user experience. But time has been kind to Descript, and now it’s a pretty solid choice in the podcasting world.
So, let’s see how these two stack up against each other based on a few key factors: ease of editing, customisation, speed, AI tools, and learning curve.
There seems to be quite a lot of buzz about Google’s new AI tool, NotebookLM and how it can potentially impact the world of podcasting.
As a podcast producer and founder of podcast production agency, Bamby Media, I’m always testing new tools to see how they can benefit (or hinder) the industry I love so much.
Armed with a healthy dose of hope and scepticism, I decided to give Google NotebookLM a whirl to see whether the podcasting world should be worried.
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Book A Consultation
Free Podcast Audit Service
YouTube Channel
Apply to Join PodCoach
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
Why does recording audio have to be so difficult?
If you’re trying to record audio of a very high standard, you’re often met with a barrage of choices you have to make.
What microphone do I need?
Is my location too noisy?
What am I going to plug my microphone into?
How do I record multiple people at once?
What software am I going to use to record it?
In the consultations I have with content creators, this line of questioning is one of the first topics we cover and I often see their eyes glaze over when I start listing all the options.
I can confirm, there are too many options.
But my advice is to focus on one thing at a time, and today I’m focusing on the software that you use to record.
For the audio-only folks out there, there is very simple piece of software that will make your life easy. At least this portion of your life. I can’t guarantee the rest of your life will fall into place based on this decision. Sorry.
Today I’m excited to share a game-changer in the world of audio recording - Shure Motiv Mix, which at time of writing is currently in its Beta phase and it’s completely free to use.
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Book A Consultation
Free Podcast Audit Service
YouTube Channel
Apply to Join PodCoach
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
Shure Motiv Mix
sE Neom
Shure Mv7+
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
It’s happening. You’re finally launching a podcast.
You’ve been thinking about it, planning it, buying the gear, deciding not to do it, then deciding you want to do it, then getting scared, putting the gear back in the cupboard, then getting it back out, then realising you really just need to do it.
You know, all the normal emotions that fresh podcasters go through.
You get over the initial hurdle of committing to the process, but then you start thinking what that first episode needs to be like.
It needs to be amazing.
The kind of episode that someone will listen to and think, “This is possibly the greatest podcast in the history of the world. I’m hooked and I will now be a raving fan forever. I will give them my first born child as gratitude for how good this podcast episode is.”
Sure, that’s one way to attack your first episode, but maybe it’s not the smartest…
In this episode, I step through how I believe you should approach your first podcast episode.
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Book A Consultation
Free Podcast Audit Service
YouTube Channel
Apply to Join PodCoach
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
Recording on location used to be such a huge pain in my ass.
I’d have this big carry case with my trust Zoom H5, Rode lapel microphones and clips, wind socks, XLR adapters for the lapels so that they’d connect to the Zoom and then a huge amount of leads to make sure all my bases were covered.
And then a few brands started bringing out wireless microphone options that could connect to your phone.
Some of them were okay, but most of them weren’t good enough for me to switch from my bulky setup. I was capturing much better sound doing it my way.
As the technology improved, so too did the wireless microphone options that were brought to the market.
Again, I was still dubious, but I decided to bite the bullet and put the Rode Wireless Pro to the test. I’d looked at some reviews on YouTube, reviewed the sound quality and inclusions and decided it may be a viable option for myself and our clients.
For the tests that I conducted, I was focusing on how the Rode Wireless Pro system handled a diverse array of recording environments. I tested in a quiet hotel room, at the beach, on a train, in the park and using the included lapel (wired) setup vs the completely wireless option.
I’ve been using the system now for almost three months, and I’m ready to give you my recommendations.
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Book A Consultation
Free Podcast Audit Service
YouTube Channel
Apply to Join PodCoach
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
Rode Wireless Pro
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
After recently watching Happy Gilmore for probably the twentieth time, it got me thinking about how we present ourselves as creators.
I found myself reflecting quite existentially on the impact that Adam Sandler’s character had on my view of where the world of content creation currently sits.
And I honestly think it’s all a little boring.
Overwhelmingly people are presenting as the “professional” version of themselves, especially on LinkedIn. This makes sense as we predominantly put out content to draw the viewer/listener into ultimately buying something from us.
We present as the authority.
We present as a leader.
But are we showing enough of ourselves to keep our content interesting?
In this episode, I go through a few key lessons I learned from Happy Gilmore about content creation.
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Apply to Join PodCoach
YouTube Channel
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
Currently, the global creator economy is valued at around $155 billion.
By 2030 it’s expected to surpass $525 billion.
That’s a lot of wig wams.
And I know it might seem like every person and their pet is a “creator” these days, but it shouldn’t stop you from exploring this option for yourself too.
Being a content creator can mean many different things and encompass a variety of industries. It’s not all about selling the latest products, jumping on the newest trends and vlogging about your latest dental checkup.
There is nuance to this industry. It’s fun, creative, explorative, educational and thinking of yourself as a creator will open you up to delivering more valuable content for your audience.
No doubt you’ll also make more money as a result.
But the first step needs to be answering the all-important “why”.
I’ve got some practical tips to help you answer that question in this podcast episode.
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Apply to Join PodCoach
YouTube Channel
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
Here at Bamby Media, we’ve been producing podcasts for clients for almost a decade and I’d say at this point we’ve worked with almost every podcast hosting platform out there.
From Omnystudio to Simplecast, Podbean, Libsyn, Blubrry, Acast to name a few.
But do we really need that many podcast hosts?
Don’t they all largely do the same thing?
The short answer is yes, they do all largely have the same basic functions.
But I do feel that not all podcast hosting platforms are created equally.
There are definite advantages to some hosts over others, and after years of experience in this space, there are two hosts that I’ve found to be the standouts in the field.
Buzzsprout and Captivate.
I’m going to give you the breakdown as to why I’ve chosen these two, and who ultimately wins in a battle between the two.
—
Book our Podcast Hosting Migration Service
Try Buzzsprout
Try Captivate
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Apply to Join PodCoach
YouTube Channel
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
One of my favourite things to do here at Bamby Media is run consultations for aspiring podcasters.
We jump into a virtual meeting together and I get giddy with excitement while they explain their idea for a show.
Then we get down to business and I start asking the harder questions.
Why do they want to start a podcast?
Who is it for?
How will their podcast be any different to others in their field?
Where are they going to record their podcast?
Who is going to do the editing?
The point of me asking these questions is not to overwhelm them, it’s to make sure they’ve thought it all through. Because there are plenty of people who start a podcast on a whim, get 7 or so episodes in and then realise they can’t keep up.
From the hundreds of podcasts we’ve worked with, I’ve seen the value of a long-standing podcast and I know that a proper plan goes a long way.
Our role here at Bamby Media is to help podcasters launch and produce their shows and grow their influence. It takes time, strategy and a significant investment to create the type of podcast that will create engaged listeners.
Today, I’m running through the full step-by-step of how I recommend you start a podcast in 2024 and beyond.
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Free Podcast Audit Service
Apply to Join PodCoach
YouTube Channel
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
When you’re listening to a podcast episode, do you notice the technical aspects of the edit?
If you said yes, I’m going to bet you’re either a very avid podcast listener, or you’re an editor yourself.
The truth of it is that most listeners don’t notice the editing on a podcast (unless it’s particularly bad).
The listener doesn’t hear the original raw audio. They haven’t seen the hours it has taken to craft a conversation into a compelling story, or the subtle use of silence to heighten emotions at key points.
What they hear is a polished episode that (hopefully) is a pleasure to listen to.
And the podcast editor has therefore done their job.
Our role is to make the edit so seamless that the listener accepts that it was recorded that way to begin with.
But the editor knows better.
The editor has shaped the story, got to know the host and/or the guest on a granular level down to every vocal tic and they’re invested.
I recently spoke to Matthew Bliss at MB Podcast Services about the role of the podcast editor and I’d be thrilled if you checked it out.
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Free Podcast Audit Service
Apply to Join PodCoach
YouTube Channel
Matthew Bliss Links:
MB Podcast Services
business@mbpod.com
https://www.mbpod.com
Matthew’s Podcasts:
Coffee with a Podcaster: https://coffeepodcaster.captivate.fm/listen
From My Home to Yours: https://frommyhometoyours.captivate.fm/listen
Kintsugi Heroes
Main Kintsugi Heroes Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvWGYmXsM8BDmYwcpDxI3gokMBKrBEKu3
Kintsugi Heroes - Alpine Series: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvWGYmXsM8BBz1ajxD6PrQ2fy-z7upiwY
Beyond the Deluge (Flood Stories): https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvWGYmXsM8BDGXkr_WaTfAeWIxMTDZ483
Episodes Referenced
Ep11 Scott Carson: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_mQO42qIhoY&list=PLvWGYmXsM8BDmYwcpDxI3gokMBKrBEKu3&index=64&t=2s&ab_channel=KintsugiHeroes
Ep14 Martin Gillespie: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eikOQ9uQcn0&list=PLvWGYmXsM8BDmYwcpDxI3gokMBKrBEKu3&index=61&ab_channel=KintsugiHeroes
Ep23 Naomi Yano: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XkqW7p-K2WI&list=PLvWGYmXsM8BDmYwcpDxI3gokMBKrBEKu3&index=52&ab_channel=KintsugiHeroes
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
Have you ever bought something online, thinking you scored a fantastic deal, only to realise later that it might not have been what it seemed?
Well, that's exactly what happened to me with the Shure SM7B microphone.
Today, I'm sharing my story of how I ended up with two fake SM7B microphones and the results of an audio battle I conducted between the real deal and its dupe.
Find out if the dupe is worth the savings or if you should stick with the original.
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Free Podcast Audit Service
Apply to Join PodCoach
YouTube Channel
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
Have you ever been in a situation where an exciting opportunity lands in your lap, but something deep down makes you hesitate?
I want to share a personal story that I think many content creators can relate to—deciding when to say no to a brand deal. Receiving offers from brands can feel like a huge opportunity, but sometimes, it’s in your best interest to pass on them as they might not serve the long-term goals you have.
Recently, I've started to receive opportunities from different software tools aimed at podcasters and microphone brands looking to partner with me. One brand in particular that I won’t name, reached out and offered to send me some of their latest products for me to review on our YouTube and podcast channels. On the surface, this offer seemed like a great idea and I agreed. I hadn’t heard of them before, but I was eager to give their gear a try.
Over the next couple of days, I started to dig deeper into this brand. I realised I hadn't heard of them for good reason. I have decades of experience in the audio space, and the fact that this brand never crossed my radar was a red flag.
It's tempting to say yes to every offer that comes your way, especially when you're excited about the possibility of a new partnership. However, it's crucial to ask yourself whether this opportunity aligns with your brand’s values and how it may affect your brand’s reputation.
Next time you have an exciting offer, take a step back and consider its actual value. Are you saying yes because you’re genuinely enthusiastic about the opportunity, or are you just excited that someone reached out?
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Free Podcast Audit Service
Apply to Join PodCoach
YouTube Channel
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
If you’ve ever spent time on YouTube, you’ve probably come across “faceless” channels.
Some even employ AI voices, allowing them to focus purely on content creation without involving their personal identities. This style of creation is becoming increasingly popular for video because it involves far less work. You don’t need a video camera, lighting or recording space. I can see the appeal to some creators.
It made me wonder: could podcasts follow a similar trend and become entirely voiceless? Let’s be clear here as to what “voiceless” means in this context. There is still technically a voice, but it’s not your human voice.
With the increasing popularity of cloning voices using AI, are we on the precipice of stepping into a world where synthetic voices are the norm?
Imagine using AI to replace your voice altogether. No more recording sessions, just write a script, or you could go even further and have AI write your script for you. Then let an AI-generated voice say it all and bam, you’ve got yourself a “podcast”.
To some, this might seem like a utopian shortcut—minimal effort for maximum output. To me, it initially felt very wrong and entirely impersonal. But, in the spirit of experimentation, I decided to give it a go and share my findings with you.
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Free Podcast Audit Service
Apply to Join PodCoach
YouTube Channel
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
Descript
SE Dyncaster DCM8
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XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
We have one hell of a showdown between two industry-leading microphones from Shure for you today. On one side, is the legendary Shure SM7B. On the other, its modern sibling, the Shure MV7. Whether you're a seasoned podcaster or just starting, choosing the right microphone can hugely impact your recordings. My objective here is to dive into the pros and cons of each mic, give you some sound tests, and help you decide which microphone fits your needs best.
If you are an early-stage to mid-level podcaster, the Shure MV7 offers outstanding versatility. It allows you to jump into podcasting without a massive upfront investment. Despite its shortcomings in sibilance and plosive handling, it provides good sound quality for its price. Its ability to switch between USB and XLR connectivity means it can evolve as you upgrade your podcasting setup.
For the budget-conscious podcaster, I personally see no reason for you to go out and buy the SM7B which would have you spending almost AU$1000 on a microphone and appropriate pre-amp. It does not feel necessary.
In the end, your choice will depend heavily on your specific needs and setup. Do you prioritise versatility and budget, or are you eager to present yourself like the professional podcasters that you’ve seen using the Shure SM7B. I know that can be a very real factor to consider.
I'd love to hear your thoughts on the SM7B vs. MV7. What works best for your voice and setup? Remember, just because one mic is widely used doesn't mean it’s the best fit for you. It’s always a good option to try a few, or watch reviews of different voices showcasing the microphones before deciding for yourself.
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Free Podcast Audit Service
Apply to Join PodCoach
YouTube Channel
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
Shure SM7B
Shure MV7
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
Chris Edwards is no stranger to the world of media. As the founder of the Honeycombers website which reaches over 2 million readers a month, she has learned the value of building connections and delivering quality content to those who visit the site.
It’s no surprise to me that when Chris decided to start a podcast, she would bring that same attention to detail and enthusiastic attitude to this different form of media.
As the host of the Good Business podcast and Founder of the Launchpad community, Chris's journey is packed with takeaways for anyone who wants to leverage podcasting to make more meaningful connections.
Chris's journey demonstrates the multifaceted benefits of podcasting. From building confidence and fostering connections to expanding your knowledge base, podcasting offers a unique platform for personal and professional growth. So, if you're looking to connect with like-minded individuals and embark on a journey of self-discovery, consider picking up a microphone and starting your own podcasting adventure!
CHRIS EDWARDS LINKS:
Podcast: Good Business
Community: Launchpad
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Free Podcast Audit Service
Apply to Join PodCoach
YouTube Channel
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
Shure SM7B
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
Chris Edwards is no stranger to the world of media. As the founder of the Honeycombers website which reaches over 2 million readers a month, she has learned the value of building connections and delivering quality content to those who visit the site.
It’s no surprise to me that when Chris decided to start a podcast, she would bring that same attention to detail and enthusiastic attitude to this different form of media.
As the host of the Good Business podcast and Founder of the Launchpad community, Chris's journey is packed with takeaways for anyone who wants to leverage podcasting to make more meaningful connections.
Chris's journey demonstrates the multifaceted benefits of podcasting. From building confidence and fostering connections to expanding your knowledge base, podcasting offers a unique platform for personal and professional growth. So, if you're looking to connect with like-minded individuals and embark on a journey of self-discovery, consider picking up a microphone and starting your own podcasting adventure!
CHRIS EDWARDS LINKS:
Podcast: Good Business
Community: Launchpad
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Free Podcast Audit Service
Apply to Join PodCoach
YouTube Channel
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
Shure SM7B
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
How many downloads are you receiving for each episode you release, and why should you care less about this statistic?
Well, dear reader as you no doubt know by now, download numbers appear to be the be all and end all statistic to track whether your podcast is making an impact.
Yes, I do agree that you should know your download numbers and certainly track them over time, but what if downloads are just the tip of the iceberg?
What if there's a whole treasure trove of insights waiting to be discovered, a deeper understanding of how your podcast is truly resonating with your audience and how far that reach actually goes.
By venturing past this single metric, you can unlock a wealth of knowledge about your listeners, their habits, and their preferences. This knowledge empowers you to refine your content, expand your reach, and ultimately, stay in it for the long haul. The more you track your growth, the more you realise how truly wonderful it is to keep your podcast going.
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Free Podcast Audit Service
Apply to Join PodCoach
YouTube Channel
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
Shure SM7B
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
Alright podcasters and vocalists alike, it's time to settle a score! Today, we're throwing down in a microphone brawl between two titans: the legendary Shure SM7B and the lesser-known but highly regarded sE Dynacaster DCM8.
By the end of this rumble, you'll know which microphone I prefer for females with similar vocal tones to my own, as well as vocalists looking for that extra bit of sparkle.
To set the scene, we’ve recorded this battle at Gasworks studio in Fortitude Valley with both mics plugged into a top-notch John Hardy M2 preamp. We're keeping things raw with no post-production on the sound, so you hear exactly how these microphones perform. All we’ve done is boosted the levels to ensure they’re the same.
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Free Podcast Audit Service
YouTube Channel
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
Shure SM7B
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
I’ve seen so many new podcasts launch with next to no promotion behind them.
Then they wonder why they didn’t receive as many downloads as they thought they should have.
They’ve told their friends and family, put a few graphics or videos out across social media, and they feel like that’s plenty.
But it lands a little softer than they anticipated.
There are also podcasters out there that are so nervous about putting their show out, that they don’t want to promote it.
And that’s all well and good if you’re just testing the waters, or you don’t really want anyone to know about your show until you feel like you’ve found your feet.
But I’m not talking to that podcaster here.
I’m talking to the podcaster who wants to make the most of their new podcast launch. The podcaster who wants to make sure they squeeze as much out of their launch as possible, without spending money on ads or other paid strategies.
This is purely a strategy for those of you who want to use social media, email marketing and good ol’ fashioned word of mouth to help promote their new podcast.
So, here’s the exact strategy I recommend to our clients, and we use ourselves here at Bamby Media.
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Free Podcast Audit Service
YouTube Channel
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
TRY RIVERSIDE
Riverside Conversation Creators Facebook Community
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Free Podcast Audit Service
YouTube Channel
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
I received an Apple Watch for my birthday.
“Woop de doo,” I hear you say.
“People get Apple Watches all the time. What’s the big deal?”
Well, the big deal is that it has changed my life.
And there is a very simple reason why.
Attention.
Prior to my Apple Watch life, my phone was the way I accessed the bulk of those things that we all need:
The time, the date, banking, messages, phone calls, music, podcasts, maps, photos.
But because my phone also had these:
Social media, YouTube, News, Business Apps, Analytics, Slack, Real Estate, Airbnb…
Well, I know you understand what I’m going to say next.
I would pick up my phone purely because I wanted to know what time it was, and all of a sudden I was on Instagram answering DM’s and “just checking” my work emails.
If I was ever “waiting” for something my default action would be to check my phone.
But since this little watch has come into my life, all that has changed.
My energy has shifted from distracted, to attentive.
I don’t bring my phone anywhere unless it’s a bigger business trip. Everything I actually need is on my wrist.
The rest I can access within work hours when I’m at my desk.
And I feel like me again.
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Free Podcast Audit Service
PodCoach Service
Bamby Media Services
YouTube Channel
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
As a content creator and producer in the podcasting space, I am always on the hunt for the best microphones to make my voice and our client’s voices sound super fancy.
There are two heavyweights in the podcast industry that I was eager to pin against each other in a battle to the death.
Well, maybe not death. No microphones were harmed in the making of this episode.
Introducing into the ring, the Electro-Voice RE20 and the Shure SM7B. Both microphones are similar in cost (around AU$800) and they are probably the microphones that you see used the most in podcasting and radio.
But are they the best?
Who is the winner?
Would I even choose one of these microphones for my clients or our personal podcasting projects?
In this battle, I aimed to compare the audio quality, sibilance, plosives, suitability for vocalists and overall sound. I also had our Lead Videographer and Designer, Alex join me so that we could hear how these microphones performed with both male and female voices.
Choosing the right microphone for podcasting is a personal decision that depends on individual preferences, recording environments, and vocal characteristics. As always, these opinions are my own and are based on the tests I’ve performed with my voice.
This particular battle was conducted at a high-end studio in a controlled environment, so it’s important to be aware that if your studio setup is different, the results will vary.
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Free Podcast Audit Service
PodCoach Service
Bamby Media Services
YouTube Channel
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
Shure SM7B
Electro-Voice RE20
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
How would you promote your podcast without social media?
In fact, if we think more broadly about this; how would you promote your personal brand or business without social media?
This might leave you scratching your head. We have become so used to relying on social media to help promote ourselves and it feels hard to get off the train..
But as we all know, we don’t “own” these platforms. Well, unless you're Mark Zuckerberg or Elon Musk perhaps. But if you’re a normal person, you’re playing to the algorithm. You’re doing what you’re told to do, and you’re probably seeing decent enough results.
Or maybe you’re not.
It depends on how you define “results.
If you weren’t seeing results, you’d get off social media right?
Well, that sounds good in theory, but it doesn’t happen as often as we might like.
As podcasters, social media has been found to be quite an effective tool. A recent study done by Edison Research found that 76% of Gen Z say they discover podcasts through clips on social media.
So if we don’t use social media, how do we promote our podcasts?
I recently had the pleasure of chatting with the supremely talented Amelia Hruby.
Amelia is the founder and executive producer at Softer Sounds, a feminist podcast studio based in the USA. Her background stretches into academia, community organising, and broadcasting. And Amelia is an advocate for getting off social media.
Her podcast, "Off The Grid," explores the theme of leaving social media while still maintaining an online presence, offering a refreshing take on digital wellness and creative marketing strategies. If you’re intrigued by this notion, I encourage you to go and give this show a listen. Her voice is also an absolute dream to listen to.
Podcasting is not just about sharing stories; it's about cultivating connections, sparking conversations, and embracing the beauty of human expression. Amelia's journey exemplifies the transformative power of creativity, resilience, and passion in the world of podcasting.
WHERE TO FIND AMELIA:
Off the Grid Podcast
Softer Sounds Studio
Free Leaving Social Media Toolkit
The Interweb Community
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Free Podcast Audit Service
PodCoach Service
Bamby Media Services
YouTube Channel
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
How much time and effort do you put into your podcast episode show notes?
As a podcaster, producer and judge on the Webby Awards and Australian Podcasting Awards, I am exposed to a lot of podcasts.
And one of the biggest variables is the quality of the show notes.
I can understand why podcasters don’t generally put a heap of time into their show notes, because podcasting is an audio platform (video too these days). People don’t come to your podcast to read your show notes.
They come to listen to or watch your episode.
But what you’re missing out on here is the increased reach that you could be taking advantage of from the episode you took the time to record.
Show notes do not have to be just a summary of your podcast episode within a couple of sentences or a paragraph. They can be a valuable tool for engaging your audience and expanding your reach.
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
- SE Dyncaster DCM8
- Rode Boom Arm
- XLR Cables
- Sony ZV E10
- Elgato Camlink
- Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
- Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
- Focusrite Clarett+
- Rode Streamer X
- Rodecaster Pro II
- Rodecaster Pro Duo
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
- Free Podcast Audit Service
- PodCoach Service
- Bamby Media Services
- YouTube Channel
- Castmagic
- VidIQ
Starting a podcast may fill you with tiny nervous butterflies in your stomach.
You’ve planned out your episodes, batched a bunch of episodes and it’s all coming together. The whole process is feeling daunting perhaps, but you’ve got a launch plan organised and it all feels achievable.
But have you thought about the trailer episode?
Much like a movie trailer entices viewers to watch the film, your podcast trailer serves as the first impression of your show, enticing potential listeners to hit that subscribe button potentially before it’s even launched.
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
- SE Dyncaster DCM8
- Rode Boom Arm
- XLR Cables
- Sony ZV E10
- Elgato Camlink
- Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
- Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend
- Focusrite Clarett+
- Rode Streamer X
- Rodecaster Pro II
- Rodecaster Pro Duo
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
- Free Podcast Audit Service
- PodCoach Service
- Bamby Media Services
- YouTube Channel
If you’re stepping into the realms of more professional podcasting and you’re confused as to what microphone will work best for you, I’d like to introduce you to one you should be considering.
I know we see videos all day long with the famous Shure SM7B as the “go to” microphone to use for professional podcasters, but I’m going to go out on a limb here and say, I think there’s another player that should be in the ring. The sE Dynacaster DCM8.
sE is a family-owned business that was founded by Siwei Zo. He studied Composition at the Shanghai Conservatory of Music, and became a successful conductor and composer. Visiting California on a scholarship, Siwei then found an opportunity to merge his musical knowledge with his love for design. He began building condenser microphones under his own brand name, “sE” which is a homage to the art of sound engineering. In just over 20 years of designing and building microphones, the brand has established itself as makers of precision tools for artists, by artists.
As a musician myself, this kind of “origin story” resonates with me, and I’ve been using sE microphones as a vocalist for over a decade, so I was eager to hear what they could do for podcasters.
GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend:
Focusrite Clarett+
Rode Streamer X
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Pro Duo
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Free Podcast Audit Service
PodCoach Service
Bamby Media Services
YouTube Channel
Have you ever experienced a vulnerability hangover? That sick feeling in your gut after you’ve shared something really personal. You feel exposed and wish you could take it all back.
A lot of experts in the marketing and social media space talk about the importance of being authentic with your audience. People want to see and know the real you. They want to hear what’s going on in your actual life so they can relate to you as a person, not just be fed the same old filtered nonsense.
But how much of your personal life should you share on your podcast?
And when does being authentic cross over into oversharing?
Someone who lives and breathes authenticity is Kat John, host of the popular podcast, Real Raw Relatable. Kat has a highly engaged audience on Instagram and her podcast has garnered a reputation for its vulnerable and relatable content. Her listeners lap it up.
I recently caught up with Kat to talk about her approach to sharing her personal life on her podcast. Considering Kat’s willingness to be vulnerable, I was really interested to hear how she navigates the boundaries between authenticity and privacy.
- BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
- Free Podcast Audit Service
- PodCoach Service
- Bamby Media Services
-
YouTube Channel
-
WHERE TO FIND KAT JOHN:
- Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/kat.john/?hl=en
- Podcast:Real, Raw, Relatable
- Website:https://katjohn.com.au/
EQUIPMENT WE USE TO PRODUCE THIS PODCAST
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Rode PodMic USB XLR edition
RØDE SC19 cable
Rode NT-USB Mini
Satechi USB Hub
Focusrite Clarett+
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
When it comes to starting a podcast, one of the most important decisions you'll make is choosing a catchy and effective podcast name. But how do you go about selecting the perfect name for your podcast? In my experience, there are a few different strategies that you can use when picking your podcast name. If you put the work in at the beginning to pick a name that suits your target, you’ll find who you’re looking for.
We cover strategies including:
Using Your Name as the Show Title
If you have a recognisable name or are already a personal brand, naming your show after yourself can be a great choice.
Targeting Your Audience
If you're not a well-known figure and want to focus more on the content of your podcast, choosing a title that targets your audience's search preferences can be a smart move.
Balancing Creativity and Searchability
While using a more obscure or creative title may seem appealing, it may not perform well in search results.
Leveraging YouTube Search
If you're planning to promote your podcast on YouTube, it's important to consider search optimisation on this platform as well.
- BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
- Free Podcast Audit Service
- PodCoach Service
- Bamby Media Services
- YouTube Channel
EQUIPMENT WE USE TO PRODUCE THIS PODCAST (PODCAST PLATFORM VERSION)
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Rode PodMic USB XLR edition
RØDE SC19 cable
Rode NT-USB Mini
Satechi USB Hub
Focusrite Clarett+
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
How many podcasts have you listened to where you feel like you’re never going to actually GET to the episode? There are these long introductions with theme music that seem to go on forever, then ad placements, and then perhaps an intro to the guest. It seems to be so long before you get what you clicked on.
Well today, I’m hopefully igniting a little fire in your belly to please do away with all of that nonsense.
Listeners today have shorter attention spans and tend to skip through intros longer than 30 seconds. Let’s explore why you should reconsider your podcast intro and how to create a more engaging and efficient one.
The Power of Simplicity:
Rather than cramming a laundry list of information into your intro, keep it simple. Start with a short section of music to establish the mood, and then get right into the content.
Variations in Intro Structure:
There are a few ways we like to spice up the intros to keep things a bit more fresh and mix up the format when a show has been running the same way for awhile.
When and Where to Place Important Information:
While your traditional intro should be brief, there may still be important information you want to share with your listeners. I’d encourage you to play with using midrolls to incorporate advertisements or promotions.
Keep your Outro Minimal
Similar to intros, the outro of your podcast should be concise and to the point. We like to use just a bit of music to conclude your episode and avoid lengthy calls to action.
Remember, simplicity is the key to podcasting success.
- BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
- Free Podcast Audit Service
- PodCoach Service
- Bamby Media Services
- YouTube Channel
EQUIPMENT WE USE TO PRODUCE THIS PODCAST (PODCAST PLATFORM VERSION)
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Rode PodMic USB XLR edition
RØDE SC19 cable
Rode NT-USB Mini
Satechi USB Hub
Focusrite Clarett+
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
In the world of podcasting, the key to a successful show lies in the quality of its content. We've all heard the phrase "Content is King," and it couldn't be more true for podcasts. But how do you consistently find good content to keep your audience engaged and coming back for more? Today I’m exploring some effective strategies to help you discover and create great content for your podcast.
- BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
- Free Podcast Audit Service
- PodCoach Service
- Bamby Media Services
-
YouTube Channel
-
RESOURCES MENTIONED
- YouTube
- Answer the Public
- VidIQ
EQUIPMENT WE USE TO PRODUCE THIS PODCAST
SE Dyncaster DCM8
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Rode PodMic USB XLR edition
RØDE SC19 cable
Rode NT-USB Mini
Satechi USB Hub
Focusrite Clarett+
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Emma Edwards is the host of popular money psychology podcast, The Broke Generation. She is a financial behaviour specialist, committed to helping people “get good with money”. One of the best things about her approach to podcasting in this space, is that it’s free of financial jargon that makes it hard for the everyday person to connect with. She approached us a few years ago now to produce her podcast, and I’ve been so impressed with the quality of the content she provides and her ability to stay consistent.
With a following on Instagram of over 75K, I wanted to know how an audience of that size converts to podcast listeners. Research into social media behaviour tells us that a high portion of Gen-Z at least, find out about new podcasts from their social feeds. I was intrigued to find out whether this is for creators that I know.
It turns out that migrating your audience from one platform to another is no simple task. It requires a high level of consistency, a commitment to providing valuable content, creativity in how you let your social followers know about your podcast and acceptance that it won’t happen overnight.
- BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
- Free Podcast Audit Service
- PodCoach Service
- Bamby Media Services
-
YouTube Channel
-
WHERE TO FIND EMMA:
- Podcast:The Broke Generation
- Instagram:@the.brokegeneration
- Website:https://thebrokegeneration.com/
EQUIPMENT WE USE TO PRODUCE THIS PODCAST
Rode PodMic
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Rode PodMic USB XLR edition
RØDE SC19 cable
Rode NT-USB Mini
Satechi USB Hub
Focusrite Clarett+
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
No doubt you’ve probably heard the phrase “What got you here, won’t get you there”. It was made popular by executive coach and author, Marshall Goldsmith. Whenever I’m looking to expand something in my business or life, that phrase is a guiding light.
I apply this thinking to podcast strategy too. When we’re working with clients on a more in-depth level within our PodCoach service, or facilitating high-level consultations I always ask them where they are currently, and where they want to get to.
The answer is often nuanced. A lot of the time they’re unsure really where they want to go, and they’re not tracking any results to see how far they’ve come. If you’re on this path too and you’re unsure what goals to set, or how to achieve them for your podcast, there are principles you can follow.
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
- Free Podcast Audit Service
- DIY Podcaster Program
- Bamby Media Services
- PodCoach
- YouTube Channel
RESOURCES MENTIONED:
- What Got You Here Won’t Get You There - Marshall Goldsmith
- Atomic Habits - James Clear
EQUIPMENT WE USE TO PRODUCE THIS PODCAST
SE Dynacaster DCM8
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Satechi USB Hub
Focusrite Clarett+
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Today we're taking an in-depth look at the Rode NT USB microphone, specifically for all you podcasters out there.
I run through the features including USB-only input, built-in pop filter, and standalone stand. I get my trusty shoebox out to make sure you can hear why the stand won't suffice for proper audio.
I also go through some potential issues, such as a noticeable background hum and the mic's size potentially obstructing your face on camera. Tips on how to mitigate these issues, such as using a boom arm are mentioned and the links to our gear recommendations are below.
GEAR WE USE TO PRODUCE THIS PODCAST:
Rode NT USB
Rode Boom Arm:
Sony ZV E10:
Elgato Camlink:
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Mini:
I recently had a super fun conversation with Greg Wasserman, the Head of Growth, Partnerships, and Community at Castmagic, an AI platform for content repurposing. Greg is a multifaceted podcast expert, having sold podcast advertising, run three podcast listening platforms before joining Castmagic. I know that I don’t normally talk to folks who don’t have podcasts themselves, but I felt that Greg could add a lot of value for you podcasters out there.
In our conversation, we discussed what it actually means to “grow” a podcast, what makes a podcast good, the importance of branding, and the ever-evolving role of AI in podcasting.
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
- Free Podcast Audit Service
- DIY Podcaster Program
- Bamby Media Services
- YouTube Channel
- WHERE TO FIND GREG:
- Greg’s Masterclass - “From Pocdaster to Profitable Brand”
- Try Castmagic
EQUIPMENT WE USE TO PRODUCE THIS PODCAST
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Rode PodMic USB XLR edition
RØDE SC19 cable
Rode NT-USB Mini
Satechi USB Hub
Focusrite Clarett+
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Mini
As we approach the end of the year, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible year we've had at Bamby Media. I don’t usually go into the details of our particular business here, but I thought you may get a kick out of sneaking behind the curtain of Australia’s largest independent podcast production agency. It still blows my mind that I can even say that about our business if I’m honest.
It's been a year of excitement, challenges, growth, failure, loss and learning. I’ve had the pleasure of doing some very fun new things this year, and here’s a snapshot of not only what we’ve achieved, but more importantly what we’ve seen our clients achieve.
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
- DIY Podcaster Program
- Bamby Media Services
- YouTube Channel
If you're planning on heading overseas, or doing a bit of travel generally but you still want to bring a microphone with you to record your podcasts, let me present a great option.
The Rode NT USB Mini packs a serious punch for such a small microphone, and in this episode I take you through a few little things that will help you get the best result from a travel microphone like this.
Chapter Markers:
00:07 Introduction to the Rode NT USB Mini Microphone
00:53 Understanding the Sound Quality and Plosive Issue
01:56 Techniques to Minimise Plosives and Improve Sound Quality
03:21 The Importance of Microphone Positioning
03:30 The Impact of Desk Placement on Sound Quality
05:30 The Benefits of Holding the Microphone
05:58 Tips for Traveling with the Microphone
06:36 Understanding How Voice Sounds Differ Based on Mouth Position
07:58 Using the Microphone's Headphone Feature for Monitoring
08:12 Conclusion and Recommendations for the Rode NT USB Mini
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Rode NT USB Mini on Amazon
DIY Podcaster Program
Bamby Media Services
YouTube Channel
Not every show has to be targeted to the largest audience possible. Despite you being told that a large audience is best, it’s all about the download numbers, and all that other nonsense, the true value in my opinion is targeting a niche.
One such podcaster that does this brilliantly, is Angie Nisbet and her podcast Married to the Land.
Married to the Land is a podcast specifically tailored to rural women who want to hear from others facing similar challenges and experiences. Angie started this podcast back in September 2020, and since then, it has become a platform where rural women can share their stories and address the unique obstacles they face. As someone who is not from a rural background, I find Angie's conversations incredibly enlightening and eye-opening.
WHERE TO FIND ANGIE:
- Married To The Land Podcast
- Married To The Land Instagram
- Website
Angie’s Favourite Podcasts:
- The Imperfects
- Life Uncut
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
- DIY Podcaster Program
- Bamby Media Services
- YouTube Channel
Whether you already have a podcast or are just getting started, incorporating video into your podcasting strategy is becoming more and more important. I know most podcasters don’t get into podcasting to have themselves on video though, so to read this is probably painful for you. Most podcasters love the idea of audio only, because there’s a beautiful simplicity to it.
That was the way I felt too as a long-term audio geek.
But, not only does video improve the discoverability of your show, it also attracts a whole new audience that engages with your content in different ways.
I've personally experienced the power of video in podcasting through my own podcast, "Pump Up Your Pod." By creating video versions of my podcast episodes and uploading them onto YouTube, I've seen a massive increase in listenership. In just a few short months, we've already garnered close to 20,000 views on YouTube, compared to significantly fewer listeners on podcast platforms.
So, how can you get started with video for your podcast without breaking the bank? I decided to share a bit of the bonus content that we have within our DIY Podcasters program to step you through our recommendations. We provide recommendations for video equipment that will give you a professional-looking video without overwhelming you with technical complexities.
In this episode, I show you how.
If you're ready to take your video setup to the next level or if you're an online course creator looking to create course content, I highly recommend booking a video setup consult with us. We'll assess your space, provide equipment recommendations, and guide you through the setup process virtually.
Our DIY Podcasters Program
The DIY Podcasters program is designed to help podcasters elevate the quality of their shows. It's chock-full of valuable content, including video snippet creation, that can take your podcast to new heights.
So, if you're serious about improving your show, both in terms of audio and video, don't hesitate to check out the DIY Podcasters program. It's the best resource I've ever created to help podcasters like you enhance their podcasting production.
I hope this sneak peek into the world of video equipment for podcasting has been valuable for you. Remember, video is becoming an essential part of podcasting, and it's never too late to start incorporating it into your strategy.
GEAR WE MENTIONED:
FaceCam Pro
Sony ZVE10
Elgato Camlink
Rode Streamer X
Elgato Key Light AIr
Amaran PC60
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
DIY Podcaster Program
Bamby Media Services
YouTube Channel
Book a 90min Video Setup Consultation
As a podcast producer, I’m acutely aware of how crucial it is to have a reliable and high-quality microphone. As an avid user of microphones for over 15 years, first as a musician in the studio, and now in podcasting, I feel it’s my duty to give you some guidance and stop you from buying trashy equipment.
In this review, I will walk you through my experience with the Shure MV7, touching on its build quality, sound performance, and overall suitability for different recording scenarios.
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Bamby Media Services
YouTube Channel
RESOURCES WE MENTIONED:
Shure MV7 - buy on Amazon
Rode Podmic vs Shure MV7 - Microphone Battle
EQUIPMENT WE USE TO PRODUCE THIS PODCAST (PODCAST PLATFORM VERSION)
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Rode PodMic USB XLR edition
RØDE SC19 cable
Rode NT-USB Mini
Satechi USB Hub
Focusrite Clarett+
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Mentioned in this episode:
DIY Podcaster - Join The Course
Learn how to edit your own podcast professionally.
DIY Podcaster
We’re discussing the journey of going pro as a podcaster today. After watching an episode of Modern Wisdom where the host, Chris Williamson speaks on “going pro” with his podcast, it got me thinking about what that truly means.
Drawing parallels to my own experience as a singer and musician, I highlight the importance of dedication, mentorship, and continuous learning for mastery.
I hope to challenge you to consider how you can 'go pro' and invest in your own craft. Podcasting or otherwise, what got you to where you are is not going to be what gets you to the next stage of mastery.
RESOURCES WE MENTIONED
Modern Wisdom
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Bamby Media Gear
Bamby Media Services
YouTube Channel
EQUIPMENT WE USE TO PRODUCE THIS PODCAST (PODCAST PLATFORM VERSION)
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Rode PodMic USB XLR edition
RØDE SC19 cable
Rode NT-USB Mini
Satechi USB Hub
Focusrite Clarett+
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Mentioned in this episode:
DIY Podcaster - Join The Course
Learn how to edit your own podcast professionally.
DIY Podcaster
I've gathered some valuable insights on podcast release schedules over the Christmas holiday period, drawing from data from over 60 global clients and deep industry analysis. Contrary to previous recommendations about taking a December break, the increasing global listenership suggests it might not be the best move anymore. I'd suggest podcasters don't halt content production in December. Instead, think about replaying your best episodes or batching your December content through November so that you can still take a break yourself.
Come January, there's a notable surge in listenership. It's vital to be ready with fresh content. Interestingly, the spike isn't uniform across all categories; health and true crime genres tend to peak early, while business sees a rise around mid-January. From what I've seen, June might actually be a more suitable month for a break especially for the Australian audience. But always keep in mind: it's essential to plan your breaks around your own needs and your podcast's broader goals.
RESOURCES WE MENTIONED
Podtrac- Industry Data
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Bamby Media Gear
Bamby Media Services
YouTube Channel
EQUIPMENT WE USE TO PRODUCE THIS PODCAST (PODCAST PLATFORM VERSION)
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Rode PodMic USB XLR edition
RØDE SC19 cable
Rode NT-USB Mini
Satechi USB Hub
Focusrite Clarett+
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Today, I have the pleasure of introducing you to Arielle Nissenblatt, who wears many hats – she's the community marketing manager at Descript, the creative mind behind two fantastic podcasts, Feedback with Earbuds and Trailer Park, but I can’t stop there. Arielle also runs a vibrant, engaged Podcast Community on Discord which I have been a member of for quite some time. She also regularly speaks on stage about podcasting, and I’m thrilled I could pin her down to chat with me on this show.
Arielle is not your typical podcaster; she's a podcast recommendation aficionado, and her shows bring a unique twist to the podcasting world. The real treat for Arielle, is highlighting other creators through her podcasts and newsletter, and the value she brings to the industry as a support of the medium, is not to be understated.
Arielle's insights are pure gold for any podcaster looking to shake things up and connect with their audience in a meaningful way. To get more of Arielle's wisdom and to check out her podcasts, Feedback with Earbuds and Trailer Park, make sure to visit the links below.
LINKS WE MENTIONED
Descript
Feedback with Earbuds
Earbuds Collective Newsletter
Trailer Park
Arielle’s Current Favourite Podcasts
The Daily Zeitgeist
Who? Weekly
Crime Writers On
BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:
Bamby Media Gear
Bamby Media Services
YouTube Channel
EQUIPMENT WE USE TO PRODUCE THIS PODCAST (PODCAST PLATFORM VERSION)
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Rode PodMic USB XLR edition
RØDE SC19 cable
Rode NT-USB Mini
Satechi USB Hub
Focusrite Clarett+
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
I've got two fantastic microphones to pin against each other today. The Shure MV7 and the Rode PodMic. Why the battle, you ask? Well, these babies are essentially cut from the same cloth. They both offer the versatility of XLR and USB connections, and the price point is basically the same. Shure and Rode are both very well known in the microphone industry, and I felt like it was worthy of a good ol’ fashioned rumble!
Before I declare any favourites, I want to make it clear that what you're about to hear is my personal opinion and specific to my voice. Your voice will have different tonality, different inflection and different frequency “hot spots”, so use this as a guide.
We start with some tricky sounds like those with heavy P's and B's to see how they handle plosives. I even treat you to a bit of singing because, hey, microphones are often used for that purpose, and I'm a singer myself.
I read a passage from Gillian Flynn's "Gone Girl" to see how well these microphones fare for voiceovers and audiobook narration. These are crucial considerations, especially if you're a content creator.
Links
Rode Podmic
Shure MV7
Bamby Media Gear
Bamby Media Services
YouTube Channel
EQUIPMENT WE USE TO PRODUCE THIS PODCAST (PODCAST PLATFORM VERSION)
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Rode PodMic USB XLR edition
RØDE SC19 cable
Rode NT-USB Mini
Satechi USB Hub
Focusrite Clarett+
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
In today's episode, we're joined by the delightful Ellie Swift, the voice behind the popular podcast, "Shine Online with Ellie Swift". Launching her podcast in August 2020, Ellie speaks candidly about the highs and lows of consistent podcasting. Beyond being a marketing strategy, she shares her authentic journey of using podcasting as a tool to connect, share, and educate her audience.
Ellie's thoughtful perspective on content evolution resonates with every creator: it's natural for content to change, reflecting one's growth and ever-evolving viewpoints. Her podcast serves as a key strategy funnelling potential clients towards her services. A testament to its success, a whopping 30-50% of Ellie's community discovered her through the podcast, emphasizing its transformative impact on her business trajectory.
However, every silver lining has its own cloud. Ellie sheds light on the demanding nature of maintaining consistency in podcasting. With weekly episodes amidst other professional commitments, it's a balancing act. Yet, the importance of podcasting's returns, especially in terms of repurposed content, is undeniable. Ellie emphasizes its role as a content goldmine that greatly benefits businesses.
Ellie's insights serve as a beacon for both budding and veteran podcasters. Podcasting isn't just about starting; it's about persisting, evolving, and connecting. Through her unwavering commitment, Ellie reminds us of the trust and bond forged between creators and their audience, cementing podcasting as an invaluable medium in today's digital age.
Links
Shine Online with Ellie Swift
Ellie's Sold Out Masterminds Program
Ellie’s Instagram
Diary of a CEO - Ellie’s favourite podcast right now
Bamby Media Gear
Bamby Media Services
YouTube Channel
EQUIPMENT WE USE TO PRODUCE THIS PODCAST (PODCAST PLATFORM VERSION)
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Rode PodMic USB XLR edition
RØDE SC19 cable
Rode NT-USB Mini
Satechi USB Hub
Focusrite Clarett+
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Today I’m sharing my insights on how to record high-quality content using nothing but your iPhone and a microphone. In this episode, I'll walk you through the essential equipment, setup, and tips that I've personally found invaluable for producing top-notch recordings on the go.
The Essential Gear
My weapon of choice is the Rode PodMic USB microphone. It's compact and perfect for travellers like me, but it does come with a pop filter that adds a bit of bulk. Don't be put off by its size, though, because that pop filter is crucial for reducing those annoying plosive sounds, like P's and B's, in your recordings. And to keep your recording stable and shake-free, a reliable tripod is a must. My personal favourite is the Manfrotto Tripod with a smartphone adapter. It's not only sturdy but also highly portable, allowing me to record from virtually anywhere.
Setting Up Your Smartphone
Now, let's talk about the heart of this mobile podcasting setup—your smartphone. I use an iPhone 14 Pro, and I'll show you how to connect it to the Rode PodMic USB microphone using a separate USB cable. I'll also walk you through the benefits of the Rode Central app, which allows you to fine-tune your microphone's settings for that perfect audio quality.
Lighting and Noise Control
Don't underestimate the significance of lighting and noise control. While recording, I always make sure to have good natural light. However, I'm well aware that sometimes you can't control external noise, like chirping birds or barking dogs. Here's my advice: pause and let the noise pass, making post-production editing a breeze.
Cinematic Touch and Camera Placement
For that extra touch of professionalism, I often use the cinematic camera option available on my iPhone 14 Pro. It creates a beautiful background blur that instantly elevates the quality of your recordings. I also recommend using the back camera for higher video quality, even if it means you can't see yourself during the recording.
Recording with Guests
If you plan to have guests on your podcast while on the go, I suggest keeping it simple with a single high-quality microphone that you can pass around. This ensures a smooth flow of conversation without the hassle of multiple microphones and phones.
Conclusion
So, there you have it! My personal tips and tricks for recording professional podcast episodes on the go. Whether you're a digital nomad, a traveller looking to create content, or simply curious about diversifying your recording locations, I hope you found these insights helpful.
Resources Mentioned:
Rode SC21 USB cable
Manfrotto Tripod
Manfrotto Smartphone adapter
Rode Central App
LINKS:
Bamby Media Gear
Bamby Media Services
YouTube Channel
EQUIPMENT WE USE TO PRODUCE THIS PODCAST
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Rode PodMic USB XLR edition
RØDE SC19 cable
Rode NT-USB Mini
Satechi USB Hub
Focusrite Clarett+
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
I’m super excited to be chatting with Suz Chadwick today about using your podcast as a marketing tool. Suz is an expert in personal branding and, having recently celebrated the 300th episode of her podcast, The Brand Builder’s Lab, I thought this was a perfect time to sit down and discuss her podcasting journey and the challenges and successes she’s experienced along the way.
Suz is funny, intelligent, has an incredible energy, and with her wealth of knowledge on podcasting and personal branding, you’re going to love her. In this episode, we delve into how Suz uses her podcast as a primary marketing channel for her businesses and how she has successfully monetised her podcast.
The Power of Enthusiasm:
One standout feature of The Brand Builder’s Lab is Suz’s infectious enthusiasm. Her genuine passion for the content resonates with her audience and this energy has certainly contributed to the longevity of the show. Some of her super fans have not only remained loyal listeners but have also become clients, showcasing the power of podcasting as a marketing tool.
Monetising the Podcast:
Suz's podcast has been a lucrative venture, generating over $350,000 in revenue. She shares insights into podcast monetisation, highlighting the importance of advertising and marketing on one's own podcast. Suz strategically uses pre-roll and post-roll advertisements to promote her products and services, aligning these promotions with her marketing calendar. This approach allows her to convert podcast listeners into clients while maintaining control over her marketing efforts.
Consistency and Mindset:
Consistency has been a key factor in Suz's podcasting success. She emphasises the importance of maintaining a regular release schedule and treating podcasting as a non-negotiable aspect of her business strategy. Suz encourages aspiring podcasters to stay committed and not be disheartened by slow initial growth. Like a business, building a podcast takes time and dedication.
Suz’s journey in podcasting is a testament to the power of consistency, passion, and smart marketing. The Brand Builder’s Lab has not only enriched her brand but has also generated substantial revenue. Suz's story serves as an inspiration for aspiring podcasters and entrepreneurs alike, emphasising the potential of podcasting as a tool for building a lasting brand and driving business success.
Links
Connect with Suz Chadwick:
- Podcast:The Brand Builder’s Lab
- The next round of Brand Builders Academy starts 16th October! Learn more here
- Website:https://suzchadwick.com/
- Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/suzchadwick/
Bamby Media Gear
Bamby Media Services
YouTube Channel
EQUIPMENT WE USE TO PRODUCE THIS PODCAST
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Rode PodMic USB XLR edition
RØDE SC19 cable
Rode NT-USB Mini
Satechi USB Hub
Focusrite Clarett+
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
AI is steadily infiltrating every corner of our lives, promising more efficient ways of doing things. With the immense popularity of TikTok, Instagram Reels and YouTube shorts, the need for snappy, quick video snippets that can showcase your podcast quickly has become almost a necessity for discoverability.
We know from our episode on Gen Z listening behaviour, that they rely heavily on social media to find out about new episodes or shows (as do other generations). if you’re not showing up on these platforms, you’re going to have a more challenging time being found.
In my quest to find tools that can assist the DIY podcaster, I've put a couple of popular AI video snippet creation tools Vidyo and Opus Clips to the test. But do they really live up to the hype?
As it stands, AI video snippet tools have room for improvement. With Vidyo earning a grade of "C" and Opus Clips a "D" in my review, there’s a clear indication that while AI is making strides, the human touch remains irreplaceable. Still, for those on a tight budget or time constraints, they can be a valuable tool in your kit.
For a proper review of me using these tools check out my deep dive on YouTube where I compare these tools in action.
Remember, technology is always evolving. So while these tools might not be perfect today, who knows what the future holds?
Resources Mentioned:
Vidyo
Opus Clips
Links
Bamby Media Gear
Bamby Media Services
YouTube Channel
EQUIPMENT WE USE TO PRODUCE THIS PODCAST
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Rode PodMic USB XLR edition
RØDE SC19 cable
Rode NT-USB Mini
Satechi USB Hub
Focusrite Clarett+
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Since the dawn of time in the podcasting industry, there hasn’t really been a compelling reason to create episode-specific artwork for your podcast. It was often put in the “I’ll do it later” basket and because podcast platforms couldn’t display specific artwork anyway, it felt like a bit of a waste of energy.
This is no longer the case, and with the changes coming to the latest version of iOS the artwork that you’re able to see on your podcast players can be specific to your episodes. This opens a whole new world of possibilities for podcast branding!
Today I’m walking you through five reasons why podcast episode-specific artwork is a great branding strategy for your show, and I’d recommend putting some serious thought into it.
1. Branding and Recognition:
Just like YouTube thumbnails change with each video, your podcast episodes deserve individual visual identities.
2. Attracting New Listeners:
In a sea of podcasts, catching a potential listener's eye is crucial. As people scroll through podcast apps, intriguing visuals can pique their interest.
3. Engagement and Sharing:
Unique podcast artwork isn't just eye candy; it's shareable content gold. When listeners screen share your episodes, the artwork becomes a visual representation of your show.
4. Professionalism:
Investing time and effort in creating episode-specific artwork showcases your commitment to professionalism. It's a clear sign that you care about your podcast's image and the experience of your listeners.
5. It's Just More Fun:
Episode-specific artwork adds a touch of creativity and uniqueness to your podcast. It's like a digital art gallery that reflects your episodes' diverse topics and themes.
In a nutshell, episode-specific podcast artwork is a fantastic tool to level up your podcasting game. Don't feel overwhelmed by the prospect of creating artwork for every episode. Take it one step at a time, outsource if needed, and explore affordable design services. Remember, it's all about enhancing your podcast's branding, attracting new listeners, boosting engagement, maintaining professionalism, and having some fun along the way.
Resources Mentioned:
Links
Bamby Media Gear
Bamby Media Services
YouTube Channel
EQUIPMENT WE USE TO PRODUCE THIS PODCAST
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Rode PodMic USB XLR edition
RØDE SC19 cable
Rode NT-USB Mini
Satechi USB Hub
Focusrite Clarett+
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Explore the dynamic world of podcasting with us! As a seasoned podcast producer, I've witnessed the podcasting landscape evolve over the past eight years. One significant shift is the quest to monetize podcasts, especially for those outside established podcast networks.
Discover the grassroots approach to podcast support, where you invest in your favourite content creators. Join me as I explore 10 compelling reasons to back your favourite shows!
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Investing in Quality Content: Fuel the creation of top-notch content that you adore. Your financial support empowers podcast creators to deliver exceptional episodes.
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Elevating Content Quality: Many podcasters operate solo, handling everything from recording to editing. Your contributions elevate content quality, ensuring a better experience for all.
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Exclusive Content: Enjoy exclusive perks like bonus episodes and Q&A sessions by subscribing to podcasts you love.
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Ad-Free Experience: Bid farewell to intrusive ads and savor uninterrupted listening by subscribing.
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Community Benefits Connect with like-minded enthusiasts through private forums and Discord channels exclusive to subscribers.
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Ensuring Sustainability: Your support guarantees that podcast creators can continue producing quality shows, compensating their teams, and maintaining high standards.
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Exclusive Merchandise or Discounts: Subscribers often enjoy special merchandise or ticket discounts, adding extra value to your support.
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Supporting Independent Media: Champion independent creators who offer a fresh perspective in a media landscape dominated by corporate big wigs..
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Prioritizing Your Values: Contribute to causes that align with your mission and values by subscribing to purpose-driven podcasts.
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The Feeling of Contribution: Send a powerful message to creators that you're not just a listener but an active supporter. Your contribution motivates and fuels their dedication.
Investing in your favourite podcasters is a win-win, fostering a thriving podcasting community. Gain access to exclusive perks and strengthen your connection with beloved shows.
Links
Bamby Media Gear
Bamby Media Services
YouTube Channel
EQUIPMENT WE USE TO PRODUCE THIS PODCAST
Rode Boom Arm
XLR Cables
Rode PodMic USB XLR edition
RØDE SC19 cable
Rode NT-USB Mini
Satechi USB Hub
Focusrite Clarett+
Sony ZV E10
Elgato Camlink
Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light
Aputure Light Box Min
Why you might need an XLR input microphone instead of a USB microphone
Hello, podcasters! In today's episode, we are going to tackle a common dilemma many podcasters face: choosing between an XLR microphone and a USB microphone. Specifically, we will delve into the features of the Rode PodMic USB XLR, a microphone I recently reviewed. If you haven't watched the review video yet, be sure to read this article first!
The Difference in Sound
In the review video, I covered the differences in sound between the XLR and USB inputs. Spoiler alert: both are good! However, there is a crucial aspect that I did not discuss in the video, which you need to consider before making your decision - the lead, or cable, you will use.
The Importance of the Cable
The type of cable you need depends on your podcasting setup. If you plan to record at your desk and stay close to your computer, the Rode PodMic, with the lead included in the box, will work just fine. However, if you plan to record further away from your input source, like on a couch or in another room, you'll need an XLR input device. Fortunately, the Rode PodMic has both USB and XLR connections, making it a versatile choice for any setup.
Rode's Advice on Cable Length
I reached out to Rode to inquire about longer cables for the USB microphone, and they advised against it due to potential issues with dropouts and distorted sound. However, with an XLR connection, you can use a much longer lead without any issues.
Recording from a Distance
With an XLR connection, you can be much further away from your input source. For example, you could be sitting on a couch, in another room, or anywhere else, and then use your XLR lead to plug into a Rodecaster Pro 2 or a Focusrite Claret preamp without any issues of dropouts or connection loss.
XLR Connection and Preamp
Keep in mind that if you opt for an XLR connection, you will need a preamp or recording device to plug it into—you can't just plug an XLR lead into the back of your computer. While this will increase your initial costs, the freedom to record from anywhere and the fantastic connection quality might make it worth it.
Consider Your Recording Location
Hopefully, this episode has clarified the cable situation for you. If you are interested in the actual sound quality differences between XLR and USB, be sure to watch the review video. There are a few differences that, to the trained ear, you can certainly hear, but the biggest difference is the need for length if you plan to record further away from your recording device.
Resources Mentioned:
Rodecaster Pro II
Rodecaster Duo
Rode Streamer X
Bamby Media Gear
Bamby Media Services
YouTube Channel
In an era where podcasts are not only heard but also seen, the demand for high-quality remote recording has surged. When your guests can't be physically present, how can you ensure your podcast maintains its audio and visual appeal? The answer lies in the world of remote recording software. Today, we're shining a spotlight on a standout choice: Riverside.fm. This platform has evolved into the frontrunner in the race to deliver exceptional audio and video quality and we’re going to break down why it’s winning right now.
Why Riverside.fm Takes the Cake
The allure of Riverside.fm stems from its ability to seamlessly integrate impeccable video and audio quality. No longer must podcasters sacrifice one for the other. The platform facilitates recordings at up to 4K resolution, complete with a frame rate and bit rate ratio that ensures unparalleled clarity and precision. The other remote recording options that we have used, don’t offer quality as good as this. They may say they can record 4K, but variable frame rate issues and super low bit rates leave them eating Riverside’s dust.
Like all the other remote recording platforms, Riverside.fm makes it super simple for guests to join you on your show. They require nothing more than a provided link to join your recording session, without the hassle of additional software downloads. This user-friendly approach extends to various setups, from sophisticated microphone configurations to quick smartphone connects.
Crafting Excellence in Remote Recording
While Riverside.fm serves as an exceptional tool, a few key considerations can elevate your remote recording experience even further. Prioritize a stable internet connection to prevent disruptions during recording. Encourage your guests to utilize headphones and microphones, enhancing the audio quality of the conversation. For those who are committed to a polished end result, investing in appropriate lighting and setup arrangements can make a substantial difference. While Riverside.fm offers onboard editing capabilities, exporting your tracks for more detailed post-production edits on a more robust software (such as Descript, Adobe Audition, Pro Tools etc) ensures that every aspect of your content meets the highest standards.
Exploring Riverside.fm's Additional Features
Riverside.fm isn't solely a remote recording platform; it's a comprehensive toolkit for podcasters seeking to deliver higher-quality content. From live streaming options to the ability to invite producers, guests, and even audience members into your recording sessions, the platform empowers you to expand your podcasting horizons. For those looking to generate engaging snippets, Riverside.fm provides the means to export these clips, but we don’t really rate this as a great part of their software offering. We find it to be a bit clunky to use and we create more customised snippets for our clients in-house.
Let's Wrap It On Up!
In an evolving podcasting landscape, remote recording has emerged as a pivotal tool. Riverside.fm stands out as a wonderful choice due to it’s high audio and video quality. While competition will most certainly become more fierce as technology advances, Riverside.fm's accessibility, video excellence, and innovative features position it as our remote recording option of choice for podcasters.
Feel free to explore the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel, offering an in-depth look at the platform. Should you require further guidance or personalised assistance, don't hesitate to reach out or schedule a video setup consult.
Resources Mentioned:
Hey there, podcasters and audio enthusiasts, I’ve got an exciting episode lined up for you today. We'll be diving into the battle of the microphones - the Rode NT USB Mini versus the Rode PodMic USB/XLR.
Why bother with this showdown you may ask. I wanted to test whether there was enough of a difference between the Rode NT-USB Mini which is a significantly cheaper microphone to the new Rode PodMic. New podcasters are often concerned with budget, so I decided to put these two head-to-head and let you listen to the results.
The Contenders
At the time of this recording, the Rode NT USB Mini has already established itself as a favourite among our clients due to its portability and ease of use. It's compact and comes with a magnetic stand, making it perfect for travellers and content creators on the go. On the other hand, the Rode PodMic USB/XLR is relatively new to the market, and we're eager to see how it stacks up against the NT USB Mini.
The Test
To ensure a fair comparison, I've recorded the same phrase with both microphones using a Rode PSA1 Plus boom arm, so the microphones are the same distance to my mouth. I have not performed any post-production frequency equalisation and only boosted the levels to achieve a similar loudness. The key areas we'll be focusing on are plosives, high frequencies, and overall sound quality.
The Showdown
In the audio demonstration, I invite you to listen carefully with your headphones or quality speakers to hear the differences. Firstly, the Rode NT USB Mini impressed me with how similar it sounded to the Rode PodMic USB, but I found the plosives to be quite distracting. Rode advises that the Rode NT-USB Mini does have an in-built pop filter within the casing, but I found this to not really cut the mustard.
High-Frequency Comparison
Moving on to the high frequencies, I noticed that the Rode NT USB Mini sounded a bit more digital in its response, and there was more presence of sibilance in the audio. This means the S's and other similar sounds were a tad sharper. On the other hand, the Rode PodMic USB/XLR demonstrated a warmer sound with a bit more depth in the bass. The PodMic's audio felt fuller and less sibilant compared to its counterpart.
Final Thoughts
Both microphones perform exceptionally well, especially when used with USB as the input source. However, if I had to pick a winner, the Rode PodMic USB/XLR edges out slightly due to its excellent pop-filtering capabilities and warmer, more balanced sound. For podcasters seeking a versatile and dependable microphone, the PodMic should be a top contender.
The fact that the PodMic also has XLR capabilities, will future-proof your recording experience and allow for more versatility in the long term.
Remember, the right microphone can make a world of difference in your audio content creation journey. Stay tuned for more exciting episodes, and until next time, keep creating great content and happy podcasting!
Resources Mentioned:
Bamby Media Gear
Bamby Media Services
Bamby Media Client Application
YouTube Channel
EQUIPMENT WE USE TO PRODUCE THIS PODCAST (WEBSITE VERSION)
Rode Boom Arm
Podcasting isn't always easy, especially when you're in a creative slump. We've all been there. Staring at a blank screen, desperately hoping for that lightbulb moment to strike. Well, what if I told you there's a handy tool that can help? Here at Bamby Media, the team and I have been exploring how artificial intelligence (AI) language models like ChatGPT, Google Bard, and Claude can really shift your content game. So, let's take a deep dive into why AI tools might just be the secret ingredient for your podcast.
AI Tools: Not Just for Robots
When I first mention AI, it's easy to imagine a sci-fi world where robots do all our work. But, in reality, AI can be as simple as a tool that helps you brainstorm podcast topics. I’ve seen first-hand how AI models can give you a creative nudge, directing your thoughts and sparking new ideas. It's not about replacing your brain, it's about giving it a little jump-start.
These tools can take the stress out of ideation, giving you relevant and engaging topics without hours of research. Remember, it's not about letting AI do all the work, but allowing it to enhance and inspire your creativity.
ChatGPT vs Google Bard: A Friendly Competition
For the love of healthy competition, I put two major AI models, ChatGPT and Google Bard, to the test. You can watch my walk-off battle between the two over on YouTube. I wanted to test whether either of these tools could be a clear winner for podcasters, and keep it at a very low-cost (or no-cost) option for those just starting out. The result…well you’ll just have to go and watch the video to find out!
It’s All About the Prompts You Provide
The thing to remember about these tools is that the output is only as good as the input you give a language learning model. So it’s important to be clear on what you’re asking the AI tool to provide to you. That’s why the team and I here at Bamby Media have iterated many versions of prompts to try and gain the answers that we’re looking for.
Once you have a clear prompt for your topic idea, we found that AI can go one step further, generating subtopics to flesh out your main topic. The trick is knowing your topic well enough to transform the AI's output into meaningful content. It's like having a brainstorming session, but with a robot partner.
Content Creation Challenges
In the grand scheme of things, AI is just one tool in your toolkit. It can provide a fresh perspective and new content ideas, but it should be used alongside other resources and research. The beauty of AI is in its ability to bridge the gap between a blank screen and a unique podcast episode. Once you’ve given it a go, I’d love for you to reach out and let me know if you found these prompts helpful in your content ideation phase.
In a nutshell, AI is revolutionising the way we approach podcasting. It's not just about the techy stuff, it's about embracing new ways to enhance our creativity and deliver quality content to our listeners. So, give AI a go, and let it spark your next podcasting adventure.
Initial Topic Prompt:
Please provide me with <10/20> topic ideas for my podcast
Sub-Topic Prompt:
On the topic **
Resources Mentioned:
ChatGPT
I often get asked, “What’s the difference between USB microphones and XLR microphones?” And my topline answer is always the quality of an XLR input will deliver a better audio result. I have been working in the audio industry for 15 years, and have a Bachelors Degree in Audio Production so for me the love of XLR microphones runs deep.
But I wanted to know whether USB could be “good enough” as a solution for podcasters that want to forego some of the expense of a new podcast setup and provide a professional product to their audiences.
In comes the new Rode Podmic USB XLR microphone. This is a microphone that I’ve been eager to try since its release, and it felt like the perfect companion to explore my thoughts on the subject.
A note before I get going, this microphone was not gifted. I purchased this microphone myself to conduct this test. The provided links are Amazon affiliate links, and any purchases made through them support my show. Despite this affiliation, the review was conducted with the sole aim of benefiting my listeners and was not driven by affiliate marketing.
Testing MethodologyIn my pursuit to test the microphone thoroughly, I recorded the same passage from the book "The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse" under various setups. These included:
XLR input with and without a pop filter
USB input with and without a pop filter
USB input connecting the microphone directly to an iPad using the cable that comes with the microphone in the box
USB input connecting the microphone directly to an iPhone 14 Pro using the RØDE SC19 cable.
I found it to be an important part of the test to see how the USB faired using an IPad or iPhone, as this could make the barrier to entry for podcasting even lower and also ensure that podcasters (and influencers) could deliver high-quality audio for their “live” chats on socials also.
The Rode PodMic USB XLR EditionI found the Rode PodMic USB XLR edition to be a superb upgrade to the original XLR-only PodMic. With the added USB option, it has become more versatile and is an excellent choice for podcasters starting with a USB setup and considering an upgrade to XLR in the future.
ResultsInterestingly, the audio quality across each setup was strikingly similar. While there were minor differences, such as slightly higher frequencies present in the iPhone or iPad recordings, these nuances did not overshadow the overall excellent sound quality. I ensured that the levels were adjusted to achieve a similar sound across all the recordings and I performed no post-production. No EQ or compression was applied. What you hear is exactly as it came out of the microphone.
SoftwareTo further optimize your setup, you can also download the RØDE Central app, which allows you to perform some processing
Why Recommend the Rode PodMic USB XLR?I was so impressed with the Rode PodMic's performance and sound quality, even in the USB setup, that it has become my new favourite microphone to recommend to our podcasting clients looking for a minimal setup. I also appreciate the affordability of the microphone and it’s perfect when paired with the Rode PSA1 + boom arm.
A Competitive EdgeThe Rode PodMic USB XLR edition not only stands out as an excellent device in its own right, but it also...
Today, we're diving deep into the world of building a well-oiled and efficient podcast team. We'll be talking about how to delegate like a boss to take your podcast to new heights.
Assigning Roles and Responsibilities
If you are a solitary content creator, donning multiple hats becomes a necessity and you will be taking care of all (or most) of the roles below.
However, should you seek to extend your reach and involve a larger team to help you with your production, these are the roles that you’ll probably need:
- Content Creator: As the heart and soul of your podcast, you, the content creator, breathe life into every episode and foster a deep connection with your audience.
- Audio/Video Editor: The audio/video editor, wields their expertise to craft seamless and captivating content. Outsourcing this task can ensure a polished final product.
- Content Writing and Editing: Equally significant is the role of content writing and editing. Compelling show notes will allow for content repurposing across a wide-ranging number of platforms.
- Graphic Design: Visual appeal is paramount, and thus the graphic designer lends their artistic touch to craft alluring podcast artwork and captivating episode thumbnails.
- Social Media Marketing/Scheduling: Time to spread the word and get social. You need a marketing whiz who can create those thought-provoking quote cards, audiograms, and videos to keep the momentum going.
- Data Analysis and Content Development: Lastly, the data analyst delves into podcast statistics, unlocking valuable insights that inform content development and strategic growth.
Communication and Team Leadership
To ensure a productive and happy podcast team, nurturing efficient communication and collaboration is imperative. We liked to use platforms such as Trello, with its structured workflow management, and Google Drive, facilitates seamless organisational workflow and data management.
I also like to encourage regular podcast team meetings to help build a cohesive working environment, enabling positive discussions on content, data analysis, and constructive feedback.
Delegating to Leverage Strengths
A cornerstone of building a fantastic podcast team resides in astutely aligning tasks with individual strengths.
Have you got the right person for the role that you’ve assigned. Really look at the skills and passions of your team members, and allocate responsibilities accordingly. Seek transparency in communicating with the team about their aspirations and preferences to help keep the excitement flowing. You’ll achieve better results for your show if you’re all playing to your strengths.
Unleash the Podcast Dream Team
We've covered the A to Z of building your podcast dream team and I hope this leaves you feeling inspired to delegate! Remember, it's not all about the “benjamins” – podcasts come with so many positives outside of monetary gain too. From connections and collaborations to personal growth, it is truly a fantastic medium to be involved in.
If you wanna take the fast lane, hit us up at Bamby Media, and we'll be your podcast hype crew. But if you're more of a DIY warrior, go for it! This podcast universe is big enough for all of us!
Resources Mentioned:
Let’s Get Launchy - Our Podcasting Launch Course
Bamby Media Gear
Bamby Media Services
I’ve had the opportunity to be a juror on a few podcasting industry awards this year, and it’s been quite eye-opening. Being in a position to evaluate and weigh in on what makes a good podcast has been an exciting milestone in my career. Today, I dive into the key learnings I've gained from this experience and provide you with insights to help you create a more captivating show.
The Power of a Good Hook
One of the most crucial aspects of podcasting is capturing your audience's attention right from the start. As a judge, I found myself instinctively listening longer to podcasts that hooked me within the first 20 to 40 seconds. It's essential to have a compelling introduction that entices listeners to stay tuned. Think of it as a trailer for your episode, highlighting the value and intrigue that awaits your audience.
Consider the podcast "Diary of a CEO," which excels at creating a captivating hook. By incorporating snippets of quotes and intriguing questions at the beginning, the host piques the listener's curiosity and entices them to stay engaged.
Shorten Your Intros
Gone are the days of long, drawn-out intros with lengthy explanations of who you are and what your show is about. These intros often get skipped by new listeners and fail to serve as effective hooks. Instead, opt for a short and snappy intro that quickly introduces the episode's topic and value.
While pre-roll ads and sponsor acknowledgments are necessary, keep them concise. A brief mention of the sponsor and their value followed by diving straight into the episode content is far more effective in retaining your audience's attention.
Streamline Interview Podcasts
Interview-based podcasts often suffer from excessive small talk and meandering conversations at the beginning. While it's essential to establish a connection with your guest, avoid too much "faff" that doesn't add value to the listener's experience. Get to the point quickly and ask intriguing questions that captivate your audience.
While some podcasts thrive on conversational banter (such as celebrity gossip podcasts), it's crucial to align your approach with your show's purpose and target audience. Keep the focus on delivering valuable content and engaging discussions.
Narration Style Podcasts: Striking the Right Balance
Narration-style podcasts, particularly those in genres like true crime, often rely on a scripted narrative to guide the episode. However, it's important to strike a balance between creating an engaging story and ensuring coherence. Overdoing the narration can lead to a disjointed listening experience, leaving the audience confused about the episode's overall message.
Post-production plays a crucial role in maintaining the flow and clarity of narration-style podcasts. Ensure that the narration supports the episode's content without overshadowing it.
The Power of Audio Quality
As a podcast awards judge, I can't stress enough the importance of audio quality. With the abundance of podcasts available, listeners have come to expect a certain level of audio professionalism. Subpar audio quality, such as relying on laptop microphones or neglecting to invest in a decent microphone, can quickly turn off listeners.
Investing in a good microphone is a minimal barrier to entry for creating high-quality audio. Listeners are more likely to stay engaged and return for future episodes when the audio quality meets their expectations.
Elevating Your Podcasting Journey
The lessons I've learned as a podcast awards judge highlight the importance of creating a captivating podcast. By focusing...
I am thrilled to delve into the latest statistics from Edison Research's Infinite Dial for 2023, focusing on the Australian Podcasting Industry Trends. I’m going to explore the key findings from the report, analyse their implications, and discuss the future outlook for podcasting in Australia.
The Rise of Podcast Listening in Australia
Let's start by looking at the growth of podcast listening in Australia over the past few years. In 2017, only 10% of the population listened to podcasts. However, with the advent of COVID-19 and people spending more time at home, podcasting gained significant traction. By 2021, the percentage of podcast listeners had risen to 26%. And now, in 2023, we see an even more impressive figure of 33% of the population, which translates to approximately 7 million people, listening to podcasts on a weekly basis.
This surge in podcast consumption indicates the increasing popularity and influence of the medium. As more people discover the value of podcasts, we can expect to see a rise in advertising and brand partnerships within the industry (which we’re already seeing). Podcasting has become a powerful tool for connecting with audiences, and brands are absolutely starting to recognize its potential.
The Changing Demographics of Podcast Listeners
When we examine the demographics of podcast listeners in Australia, some interesting trends emerge. The age group with the highest percentage of weekly podcast listeners is still 18 to 24, followed closely by the 25 to 39 age range. However, what's particularly noteworthy is the growing popularity of podcasts among older age groups.
In the past, it was common for individuals over the age of 45 to be unfamiliar with podcasts. However, the latest statistics reveal that the 40 to 64 age bracket is increasingly embracing podcast listening. This shift indicates that podcasts are no longer limited to a specific demographic and have the potential to reach a wide range of audiences.
Additionally, the younger generation, aged twelve to seventeen, has shown a significant increase in podcast consumption, with 36% of this age group now listening to podcasts. Platforms like TikTok have played a crucial role in driving traffic to podcasts among Gen Z listeners. If you're targeting this demographic, it's essential to leverage social media platforms and create engaging content that resonates with them.
Australia Takes the Lead in Podcast Listening
One of the most exciting developments in the Australian podcasting landscape is that Australia has overtaken the United States as the country with the highest per capita podcast listenership. While the US held the lead at 31%, Australia has now surged ahead at 33%. This shift signifies the growing influence and potential of the Australian podcasting market.
With more Australians tuning in to podcasts, content creators have a unique opportunity to capture their attention and build a loyal audience. However, it's important to note that as the industry becomes more competitive, podcasters need to deliver high-quality content and engage their listeners effectively. The days of casual, low-quality shows are fading, and podcasters must adapt to meet the rising expectations of their audience.
The Listening Habits of Australian Podcast Consumers
Understanding where and how people listen to podcasts is crucial for content creators and advertisers. Despite the easing of COVID-19 restrictions, the majority of podcast listening still occurs at home, with 87% of respondents indicating that they listen to podcasts in their homes. This finding suggests that listeners engage with podcasts while performing other tasks, such as cleaning, getting ready for the day, or doing household chores.
The fact that listeners' hands are occupied during these activities means they are less likely to switch off a podcast once they start listening. This extended engagement time allows podcasters to build a stronger connection with their audience and establish trust more quickly. It also presents an opportunity for businesses to advertise their products or services within podcasts, as listeners are more likely to absorb and retain information while engaged in other tasks.
The data shows that 64% of respondents listen to podcasts in their vehicles, and 54% listen while walking. Only 29% of respondents reported listening to podcasts at the gym. This suggests that people prefer different types of content for different activities, with more energetic and upbeat content being favoured during workouts.
The Dominance of Spotify and YouTube
When it comes to podcast listening platforms, Spotify has emerged as the leader in Australia, surpassing Apple and YouTube. With a 66% market share, Spotify has invested heavily in promoting podcasts on its platform, making it a go-to destination for podcast enthusiasts. However, YouTube is not far behind, with 61% of respondents indicating that they listen to podcasts on the video-sharing platform.
The rise of YouTube as a podcasting platform is significant, especially considering its recent introduction of a dedicated podcast tab. YouTube's commitment to promoting podcasts and its large user base make it an attractive platform for content creators. If you're looking to grow your podcast, it's essential to consider YouTube as a distribution channel and tap into its potential for reaching new audiences.
The Power of Audio-Only Podcasts
While video podcasts have gained popularity, audio-only podcasts still dominate the industry, with 86% of respondents indicating that they listen to podcasts without video. This finding is reassuring for podcasters who may not have the resources or desire to produce video content. It shows that the essence of podcasting lies in the audio experience and that listeners value the medium for its convenience and portability.
However, it's worth noting that 51% of respondents reported actively watching podcasts with video, while 43% listened with video playing in the background. This suggests that there is a significant audience segment that enjoys the visual component of podcasts. Content creators should consider incorporating video elements into their shows to cater to this audience and enhance the overall listening experience.
What Have We Learned
The Australian podcasting industry is experiencing rapid growth and shows no signs of slowing down. With 33% of the population listening to podcasts on a weekly basis, podcasting has become a mainstream medium for connecting with audiences. The increasing popularity of podcasts among older age groups and younger demographics presents exciting opportunities for content creators and advertisers alike.
As the industry becomes more competitive, podcasters must focus on delivering high-quality content and engaging their listeners effectively. The rise of Spotify and YouTube as dominant podcasting platforms highlights the importance of leveraging these channels to reach a broader audience. Additionally, the continued preference for audio-only podcasts indicates that the core value of podcasting lies in the audio experience.
Looking ahead, we can expect to see further growth and innovation in the Australian podcasting industry. As more brands recognise the potential of podcast advertising, we may witness an increase in partnerships and monetization opportunities. Content creators should continue to explore new ways to connect with their audience and leverage platforms like YouTube to expand their reach.
The Australian podcasting industry is thriving, and now is the perfect time to dive into this exciting medium. Whether you're considering starting your own podcast or looking to grow an existing show, the opportunities are endless. Embrace the power of podcasting, create compelling content, and connect with your audience in a meaningful way. The future of podcasting in Australia is bright, and you can be a part of it.
Resources Mentioned:
Edison Research Infinite Dial 2023
Gen-Z Podcast Listening Behaviour Explained
Understanding Your Listener Consumption Rate
Let’s Get Launchy
Bamby Media Gear
Bamby Media Services
Bamby Media Client Application
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today, we're going to tackle a common issue that many podcasters face: the podcast slump. If you're feeling unmotivated and your downloads aren’t trending upward, don't worry, I've got your back. In this article, we'll explore the reasons behind the slump and discuss strategies to revive your show. So, let's dive in!
Analyzing Podcast Statistics: Uncovering the Secrets to Success
The first step in overcoming the podcast slump is to analyze your podcast statistics. Take a look at your most popular episodes and identify any recurring themes. What made these episodes stand out? Was it the quality, the topic, or the way you promoted them? By understanding what worked in the past, you can replicate that success in the future.
Additionally, it's crucial to examine the consumption rate of your recent episodes. Are people listening all the way through, or are they losing interest? This data can provide valuable insights into the quality and engagement of your content.
Refreshing Your Branding: Captivating Your Audience with a Fresh Look
Another factor that can contribute to a podcast slump is tired branding. If your podcast cover and social media snippets have remained the same for a long time, it's time for a refresh. Your branding should evolve and adapt to keep your audience engaged.
Investing in high-quality video snippets can significantly boost your podcast's visibility and listenership. I cover that topic relating particularly to the way Gen-Z uses social media to find out about new podcasts here.
It's essential to ensure that the quality of your videos matches the content you're delivering. Upgrading your equipment, such as getting a better webcam or investing in a DSLR camera, can elevate your brand and attract more listeners.
Check out our podcasting gear recommendations via our website here.
Pivoting Your Content: Finding New Relevance and Excitement
If you're feeling bored or stagnant with your current podcast content, it might be time to consider a pivot. Don't be afraid to explore new topics or target different markets. Your podcast can evolve and adapt to better align with your interests and your audience's needs.
One example of a successful pivot is Alex Hormozi, who transformed his podcast from focusing solely on running gyms to discussing business more broadly. By expanding his topics and incorporating new areas of expertise, he was able to attract a larger audience and grow his podcast.
Aligning Your Why: Reconnecting with Your Purpose and Goals
To overcome the podcast slump, it's crucial to reconnect with your why. Why did you start your podcast in the first place? What are your goals and aspirations? By aligning your actions with your purpose, you can regain motivation and drive.
Whether your goal is to increase business profitability, secure speaking gigs, or simply enjoy podcasting as a hobby, it's essential to have a clear vision and actively work towards achieving it. Don't be afraid to seek help and outsource tasks to ensure you're on the right path.
Embracing Tech Advancements: Upgrading Your Equipment
Sometimes, a podcast slump can be attributed to outdated equipment. As technology advances, it's essential to at least be aware of the current tools that can help you produce higher-quality content.
Consider upgrading your microphone, webcam, or other recording equipment to enhance the audio and video quality of your podcast. Even a small improvement can make a significant difference in attracting and retaining listeners.
Reviving Your Podcast and Looking Ahead
The podcast slump is a common challenge that many podcasters face. However, by analysing your podcast statistics, refreshing your branding, pivoting your content, aligning with your why, and embracing new tech, you can revive your slumping show and reignite your passion for podcasting.
Remember, success in podcasting requires continuous adaptation and improvement. Stay open to change, seek feedback from your audience, and never stop exploring new ways to engage and connect with your listeners.
So, if you're feeling stuck in a podcast slump, take a step back, evaluate your current strategies, and implement the necessary changes. With dedication, creativity, and a willingness to evolve, you can overcome the slump and take your podcast to new heights.
Resources Mentioned:
Alex Hormozi
Gen-Z Podcast Listening Behaviour Explained
Understanding Your Listener Consumption Rate
Bamby Media Gear
Bamby Media Services
Bamby Media Client Application
Equipment We Use To Produce This Podcast
Rode Boom Arm: https://amzn.to/3O15WIj
XLR Cables: https://amzn.to/3rkw0VO
SE Microphone: https://amzn.to/3PGC98X
Focusrite Clarett+: https://amzn.to/3NIr0SD
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As we transition into a more digitally-driven era, technology continues to evolve rapidly, and businesses must adapt to keep up with the pace of change. One of the most significant advancements in technology in recent years has been the rise of artificial intelligence (AI). AI has revolutionized the way we work, making our jobs more manageable and efficient. Today, we will share some of the most game-changing AI tools that we use at Bamby Media to help our business run more efficiently.
Are robots taking our jobs!?
When AI first emerged, there were concerns that it would take over the world and there would be a Terminator-style apocalypse/riot on our hands imminently. Instead, AI has become a valuable tool to help businesses streamline their operations and be more productive. At Bamby Media, we have integrated several AI tools into our workflow, and they have been a game-changer for us.
Descript
Descript has been a significant game-changer for us at Bamby Media. We used to use Pro Tools exclusively for our podcast editing, but we found it time-consuming and inefficient for collaborative purposes. With Descript, we can collaborate with other team members, which has made the editing process much more efficient.
Descript's transcript feature has also been a game-changer for us. We can edit using the transcript, which makes it much easier to see what is coming up in the audio or video so that you can edit content more productively.
Descript's Studio Sound feature which helps you remove background noise with the click of a button, is another significant advantage. It is much better than the beta version of a similar feature in Adobe Podcast that everyone has been raving about recently. I’m not on team Adobe for this one. Descript wins hands down.
Autopod
Autopod is currently blowing our tiny minds. It takes multicam editing to the next level by automating the process.
Previously where our video editors would sit there and have to change the camera angles themselves manually, Auto Pod can switch it all for you in a matter of minutes.
This is a new one for us, and it is absolutely going to save a tonne of time.
Deciphr
We’ve been experimenting with Deciphr to help create podcast show notes, YouTube descriptions, chapter markers, and article writing.
But there's always a caveat with the copywriting aspects of AI specifically. You can't just give it a quick read and think, “Yep - my work here is done!” You still have to have a human editing what has been provided. It’s important that the tone is correct, the writing style is on point and that it’s not reading like a “copy/paste” bit of text.
It helps you distill the information sure, but you still have to put work into making the content work.
Your business will benefit from AI
The integration of AI tools such as Descript, Autopod, and Deciphr have significant implications for businesses. They have made our workflow more efficient, which has saved us time and money. The ability to collaborate using Descript has also improved communication within our team, which has made us more productive.
In addition, these AI tools have made it easier for businesses to enter the podcasting and video editing space. With Descript, even new podcasters can produce high-quality content without needing extensive editing skills. Autopod has also made video editing less time-consuming which is an absolute WIN for the creatives out there. Deciphr has made it easier for us to produce show notes, chapter markers, and articles, saving us time and making it easier to produce high-quality content for ourselves and our clients.
As AI continues to evolve, we can expect to see more tools like Descript, Autopod, and Deciphr emerge. These tools will make it easier for businesses to streamline their operations and be more productive.
Looking to the future
A lot of the things we use in our business are still not integrated with artificial intelligence. You still need a human to do a lot of what we do which we believe is very important. There are things that still need to be ironed out from a legal perspective too in regards to who owns the copyright, especially regarding creative AI tools.
If you have any AI tools that you use that you think we should know about reach out to us! We love trying out new tech.
RESOURCES:
Descript
Autopod
Deciphr
YouTube Channel
Website
Book a Consultation
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As the head of Bamby Media, a company that specializes in podcast production, I am always interested in the latest trends and insights into the podcast industry. Recently, Edison Research released a report on how Gen Z listens to podcasts, and the results are fascinating.
The Cliff Notes
The Gen Z report from Edison Research highlights several key themes that are important for podcasters to understand. Firstly, Gen Z is incredibly engaged with podcasts and loves to binge-listen. Secondly, they are highly receptive to podcast advertising and take action on the ads they hear more than other generations do. Thirdly, social media plays a significant role in how Gen Z discovers new podcasts. Finally, video is a crucial component of podcast listening for Gen Z, with a vast majority of monthly podcast listeners watching or listening to podcasts with a video component.
What’s the crystal ball say?
Looking to the future, it is clear that podcasting will continue to be a popular medium among Gen Z audiences. By understanding how this audience listens to podcasts, podcasters can create content that resonates with them and reaches a wider audience. It means that podcasters who are willing to adapt their strategies to cater to Gen Z listeners will be well-positioned to succeed in the highly competitive podcast industry.
RESOURCES:
YouTube Channel
Website
Edison Research
Book a Consultation
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Podcasting has become a popular medium for advertisers to reach their target audience. As the industry continues to grow, podcast advertising is becoming more sophisticated, with two main types of ads: host-read and programmatic. Today I will explore the difference between these two types of advertising, their benefits, and their potential impact on the industry.
According to the Audio Advertising State of the Nation Report for 2023, 78% of media agencies intend to increase investment in podcast advertising in 2023. This is an indication of the growing importance of podcast advertising in the media industry.
Host-Read Ads
Host-read ads are where the podcast host reads the ad copy. These ads are usually scripted and are delivered in the host's own voice. Host-read ads are more effective than programmatic ads because they feel more like personal recommendations than an advertisement. Listeners are more likely to trust the host and follow their recommendations.
The Australian Edition of the Audio Advertising State of the Nation Report for 2023 shows that 86% of advertisers' agencies have used host-read ads. This is a clear indication of the effectiveness of host-read ads in the industry.
The leverage that you have for making money and having a better relationship with advertisers is through Host-Read Ads for sure. Your audience will be more inclined to accept host-read ads because they don't feel like ads the same way that programmatic ads do.
Programmatic Ads
Programmatic ads are inserted into the podcast episode automatically. These ads are usually not read by the podcast host and are delivered in a pre-recorded format. Programmatic ads are less effective than host-read ads because they feel more like traditional advertisements.
The intention to buy audio advertising programmatically has increased steadily over the last few years. According to the Audio Advertising State of the Nation Report for 2023, the intention to buy programmatic advertising has increased to 82%, up from 64% the previous year. This shows that programmatic advertising is becoming more popular in the industry.
What’s the Impact?
The growing popularity of podcast advertising has several implications for the industry. Podcasters can now monetize their content by including ads in their episodes. This can help them generate revenue and grow their audience.
Clearly, brands want to advertise on podcasts based on all the data that has been collected, and the return on investment these brands are achieving.
It is important to remember however that podcast advertising should be aligned with the podcast's mission and values. Listeners are more likely to accept ads that are relevant to the podcast's content.
Don’t be afraid to give it a go on your show, and know that you can always switch the ads off if they’re not feeling like your jam. There are plenty of other ways to make money from your podcast too. Check out our masterclass on monetisation if you’d like to learn more.
RESOURCES:
MONETISING YOUR PODCAST MASTERCLASS:
Artlist
Buzzsprout
State Of the Nation Report - IAB
YouTube Channel
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As a creator, trying to find content that you want to create can be quite a challenge. It can feel like what you want to talk about is already out there in so many ways, that you don’t have anything unique to add to the conversation.
I understand the struggle. I know it is real.
Once you have decided on a topic that you’d like to create content around, what is the first thing that you do?
Generally, you write down the topic title and start to think about what you want to say. You might write down a few dot points on the topic. Perhaps you do a bit of research into the idea and start to gain some solid references that you can refer to.
The time that it takes you to get through those first few steps can range wildly depending on how much research you do, and how wide the topic is. After that stage is complete, you setup your recording space, hit the record button and away you go.
You look through your dot points as you go, refer to your references and you feel like you’ve done a pretty damn good job.
And you probably have.
But did you engage your audience all the way through?
Did you provide the value that you were hoping to?
Is there enough content here with context that you can pull multiple smaller snippets out of to spread your content further?
If you think about that, maybe it hasn’t quite hit the mark, and that’s okay! I have an idea for you that will help you create more engaging content, that can be repurposed in more ways.
Welcome to the world of storyboarding.
A storyboard is used most frequently in the film and television industry. A storyboard is generally quite detailed, but for the purpose of your content creation, it doesn’t need to be.
The main areas I recommend you focus on in your storyboard creation are:
- Introduction - introduce the listener/viewer to the topic
- Relatable Story - This could be a “case study” that relates to the topic, a personal story, an article you read (etc). The key here is to make it a story that the listener/viewer can easily understand. But, DON’T resolve the story. Make sure that you leave the audience wondering.
- Action Steps - Your content could then be broken down into multiple action steps. This is the area of your content where your audience is learning something/diving deeper into something and they’re receiving value from you as a content creator
- Resolve the Story - Go back to the story that you mentioned at the beginning of the episode. Was there a resolution? Some way that can tie it all up into a nice little bow?
- Conclude & CTA - Think about ONE thing that you want your audience to do after listening to this content. Make an impactful action statement here without muddying it up with a bunch of options. It could be as simple as, “have a lovely day”.
If you spend a little longer in your planning stage, I can guarantee that you’ll be able to pull out more impactful snippets from your content.
Treat your Action Steps like “silos” of content within the broader topic and you’ll be able to create three times more usable content from the one piece.
If you would like help structuring your content, book a 90min content planning session below.
RESOURCES:
90min Content Planning Session with Brianna
YouTube Channel
Website
Join The Pod Lovers free community:
www.thepodlovers.com
Equipment Used To Record This Episode:
Shure SM7B Microphone
Rode PS1A Boom Arm
Rodecaster Pro II
Rode NTH100 Headphones
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One of the concerns I hear a lot from podcasters is that they don’t know how to stop themselves from talking so fast. It can feel like a jumbled mess for some people! Whether it’s nerves, the uncertainty of what to say or some weird thing that happens as soon as you’re in front of a microphone, I’m sharing some tips today to help you sloooooww doooowwn.
The first key to slowing down is to breathe. Pretty basic right? But a lot of people don’t actually breathe properly and through decades of singing lessons and stage performances, this is something I’ve learned to do really well. In this episode, I share a nice breathing exercise to help you expand your diaphragm, calm your body down and help your mind and body get into the right mode for recording.
I also talk about the helpfulness of having a prompt for what you’re going to talk about. A lot of podcasters like to freestyle their content, which is great, but it also can lead to a lot of fast talking ramble. No one likes that. So, jot a few bullet points down to help you stay on track and know that you don’t have to fill every bit of silence. I know it feels awkward, but it’s ok to pause! In fact, it’s necessary. So slow things down, take a breath and allow yourself the space to pause.
In true Bamby fashion, I also share some great tips that are a bit ridiculous but will really help you slow down. You might feel like a bit of an idiot, so watch along with me on YouTube and we can do it together!
Go ahead and practice these tips at home because learning to talk at a slower pace is really going to benefit everyone involved. As the host, you’ll feel more calm and present when recording, your listener will feel more engaged and your podcast editor will thank you for it!
RESOURCES:
Book in for a 60min strategy consult with Brianna here
YouTube Channel
Website
Join The Pod Lovers free community:
www.thepodlovers.com
Equipment Used To Record This Episode:
Shure SM7B Microphone
Rode PS1A Boom Arm
Rodecaster Pro II
Rode NTH100 Headphones
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When I started looking back at the last few years and assessed what are the busiest months for not only podcasters, but the podcast industry in general, it was clear that October and November are bonkers.
So how do we plan for months like this, and what can we learn from previous years?
One of the best ways to make sure that you're stacking the content that you really want to make sure you get out before the end of the year, is by batching. Yes, I know that's a "dirty word" for most because they find it hard enough to get one episode recorded, let alone a bunch.
But you're going to feel the benefits of this of the next few months if you take the time to plan some content, block out a few sessions and record the things you want to have ready.
October and November are the months in business where everything seems to happen at once. If you're a service based business you're probably encountering a lot more enquiries for your services. Customers want to lock things in before the end of the year, they want to tie a pretty little bow around projects that have been going on for some time.
If you're a product based business, well you're about to get slammed for the holiday period. As much as I dislike the "holiday spend" period personally, it's great for the product based businesses. Be strategic about what you're sharing on your podcasts to give yourselves the best chance of finishing the year strong.
It's not the time to be starting a whole new strategy, but it is a great time to start thinking about what your strategy is going to be for the next year.
There are a lot of aspects to think about as you gear up for the end of the year, but don't freak out. Take half an hour to yourself and think about how you want to attack the remainder of the year.
Then give yourself a break!
RESOURCES:
Book in for a 60min strategy consult with Brianna here
YouTube Channel
Website
Join The Pod Lovers free community:
www.thepodlovers.com
Equipment Used To Record This Episode:
Shure SM7B Microphone
Rode PS1A Boom Arm
Rodecaster Pro II
Rode NTH100 Headphones
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
I’m throwing some serious shade on the Blue Yeti microphone here on the podcast, and if this is the microphone that you’re using to record your podcast, you may dislike my musings.
When first starting a podcast, a lot of podcasters search for a USB microphone that they can use to record their show. They do a quick google search for “best podcasting microphone” and one of the top search results for a USB mic, is the Blue Yet Microphone.
They purchase that microphone because it looks cool first and foremost. I personally think it looks a little bit too phallic….but I digress. It’s a bit retro, it has its own stand, it comes in a few colours…what’s not to love?
Well dear listener, there are a few things not to love and I break it down for you in this episode.
Purchase Podcasting Gear:
https://www.bambymedia.com/podcast-equipment
Our Next Podcast Growth Masterclass:
HOW BOOST YOUR ORGANIC REACH
When: Tuesday, 16th August, 2022
Time: 12pm - 1pm
Where: Online via Zoom
Our website:
www.bambymedia.com
Join The Pod Lovers free community:
www.thepodlovers.com
Our socials:
Bamby Media YouTube Channel
@bamby_media
Equipment Used To Record This Episode:
Shure SM7B Microphone
Rode PS1A Boom Arm
Avalon 727 vt Pre Amp
Rodecaster Pro II
Rode NTH100 Headphones
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Picking a good title for an episode is one of the most common questions we get here at Bamby Media. It’s actually really tricky! How do you know what makes a good title?
Firstly, let’s consider the reasons why you want a good title. The main reason is what you’d expect - you want a title that is clickbaity. Something intriguing enough that someone can’t help but want to listen to it.
The other is because of the title's importance for organic reach.
How effective is your title at turning up in searches? (I have a Podcast Masterclass coming up that talks specifically to organic reach and we go into this in a lot of depth).
Searches are based on your podcast title, episode title and episode description. You really want to make sure they are full of SEO keywords that are related to the topic you’re discussing, otherwise you’re really missing out.
Organic reach is really important when you’re starting out. You want to reach those listeners that have never heard of you, and you can do this via keyword searches.
So definitely think about your episode titles:
- What are people searching for?
- How does your topic relate to what people are searching for?
- How do you tie it together and also make it something someone wants to click on?
I also run through some less than ideal episode titles, and give you some valuable tips on how to improve the effectiveness of them.
There are a few other ways you can optimise titles - it’s pretty lengthy! If you are interested in learning more I’m running a Masterclass specifically on organic reach where we take a deep dive into great podcast titles.
So - think about your titles and think about how you can really upgrade and improve them, to get those people interested in your topics that previously had no idea your podcast existed.
Our Next Podcast Growth Masterclass:
HOW TO BOOST YOUR ORGANIC REACH
When: Tuesday, 16th August, 2022
Time: 12pm - 1pm
Where: Online via Zoom
Our website:
www.bambymedia.com
Join The Pod Lovers free community:
www.thepodlovers.com
Our socials:
Bamby Media YouTube Channel
@bamby_media
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Copyright isn’t something you’d necessarily think about when you’re in podcasting, but it’s a factor you definitely need to consider.
You can’t copyright a topic or idea, but the words you say in your podcast episodes belong to you. In this episode, I’m talking about whether your podcast content is protected by copyright, some of the legal considerations, and what you can do to make sure no one steals your stuff!
Thankfully in Australia, it’s pretty simple to copyright your content. Always write down your ideas and keep a record of them. Where it gets murky is when someone puts their own spin on something you’ve said. You can’t really stop people from doing that! Although it’s somewhat of a compliment to you if someone is copying your content, I talk about when or why you might want to get a lawyer involved.
A really important area you need to understand copywriting is music. Every piece of music you use, no matter how small, MUST be licensed properly. As a musician, I can’t stress enough how important it is to make sure you have the right license in place for the music you’re using! For Bamby Media clients, we take care of all the licensing, read all the fine print, and arrange all this to make sure the artists are remunerated accordingly for their work.
I also discuss trademarks, the difference between trademarking and copyrighting, and share some great resources for you to find out everything you need to know.
When it comes to anything legal, make sure you always read the fine print. And for anyone out there who wants to copy someone else without asking, don't do that. That's bad. Very bad.
Resources:
Rise Up In Business Podcast
Artlist
Articles explaining copyright in podcasting:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/blog/copyright-for-podcasters
https://www.creativelive.com/blog/podcast-legal-issues/
https://blog.simplecast.com/podcast-copyright-lawyer/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today on the podcast I’m going to talk to you about YouTube. I know - you’re probably sitting there thinking, “but I’m already doing ALL the things”. Before you think I’m just adding another thing to your list, let me run you through the numbers. YouTube is now the third biggest way in the US that people listen to podcasts. In Australia, YouTube is number one! Very, very closely followed by Spotify and Apple. Honestly - if you feel that your target market is on YouTube, you have to get onboard with it. In this episode I run through some easy ways you can work out if your target market is on YouTube and, if they are, the reasons why being there could be really helpful for organic growth. Importantly, you don’t need to have a video recorded. At the very least you can have episode artwork and, in really excellent news, YouTube no longer penalizes static images. I share lots of creative options you can use to get around not needing to have a fancy video recorded. I also talk about the ways you can be onboard and engage with YouTube that doesn’t require a bunch of time, but still enables you to build a slow growing presence. Slow growth. This is key - don’t jump onto YouTube and expect an explosion in growth. And even more importantly, don’t use it as a vanity metric. The focus is not on the number of views, but on getting your material up there and allowing people that want to find you, find you. The point is for it to sit there and slowly grow. So - think about YouTube, think about the ways you can use it to your advantage, and if you’d like some help with it, get in touch with us here at Bamby Media. And for a more in depth look at a bunch of growth topics, then take a look at my monthly masterclasses on our Pod Lovers+, which you can join from within our Pod Lovers free community. Resources: https://blog.pacific-content.com/the-4-kinds-of-podcast-videos-you-meet-on-youtube-65160169ed03 (Article mentioned in this episode) Grab a ticket to our MASTERCLASS on https://www.bambymedia.com/masterclasses (BOOSTING THE ORGANIC REACH OF YOUR PODCAST) - Tuesday 16th August 2022 Join THEhttps://www.bambymedia.com/masterclasses ( PODLOVERS+) https://www.bambymedia.com/podcast-equipment (Shure SM7B) - the microphone I used in this episode 60min Podcast Strategy Session -https://app.squarespacescheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=22866869&appointmentType=30396921 ( Book Here) 30min Podcast Strategy Session -https://app.squarespacescheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=22866869&appointmentType=23542782 ( Book Here)
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Is your podcast available via Google Podcasts? You may have assumed that Google’s all-knowing machine would’ve picked up your podcast and put it front and centre when showing search results but you actually have to do an extra step to get there. In this episode, I’m sharing exactly what Google Podcasts Manager is and the reasons why it's such a useful tool for your podcast. When you’ve submitted your podcast to Google Podcasts Manager, using your RSS feed and your email address, your podcast will show up in Google searches in the Podcast section, as well as Google Assistant, Google Home and the Google Podcast app. This is so important because it’s the most common method people use to look up new podcasts so, of course, you want to be visible and direct people to your show! Google Podcasts Manager also provides you with valuable ‘Impressions’ that include how often a listener sees a link to your show (or specific episode) based on keywords they have searched for. This is incredibly useful information to see which episodes and topics are resonating with new audiences. You’ll also find out how many clicks you’re getting from searches and more handy insights that I’ll run you through in this episode. Don’t worry, if you’re a client of ours at Bamby Media we’ve already submitted you to Google Podcasts through the Google Podcasts Manager when you first signed so you have nothing left to do. We also provide Strategy Consults that our clients can book where we go into all of the back ends of the statistics and information available to give you an audit on exactly how you’re going, trends and what you can focus on in the future. Tune into today's episode to learn more. Previous episode mentioned: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/podcast-statistics-you-should-be-tracking/id1567308642?i=1000540543993 (Podcast statistics you should be tracking) Resources: Grab a ticket to our MASTERCLASS onhttps://www.bambymedia.com/masterclasses ( UNDERSTANDING YOUR STATS) - Tuesday 12th July 2022 Join THEhttps://www.bambymedia.com/masterclasses ( PODLOVERS+) https://www.bambymedia.com/podcast-equipment (Shure SM7B) - the microphone I used in this episode 60min Podcast Strategy Session - https://app.squarespacescheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=22866869&appointmentType=30396921 (Book Here) 30min Podcast Strategy Session - https://app.squarespacescheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=22866869&appointmentType=23542782 (Book Here)
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Join The Pod Lovers free community: http://www.thepodlovers.com (www.thepodlovers.com)
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Grab a ticket to our MASTERCLASS on UNDERSTANDING YOUR STATS - Tuesday 12th July 2022 https://www.bambymedia.com/masterclasses
I know you're SO enthused to read a title like that one, but truly this is information that you podcasters out there should all know. The latest research has come out from Edison Research in collaboration with Triton Digital and there are some particularly intriguing findings in relation to the world of podcasting in Australia for 2022. In this episode, I break down a few of the statistics that I find to be the most useful, and how these trends are informing where the industry is going on the whole. If you have a podcast, or you're looking to start a podcast soon then give this episode a listen. Resources I Mentioned: https://www.edisonresearch.com/the-infinite-dial-2022-australia/ (The Infinite Dial) Grab a ticket to our MASTERCLASS on https://www.bambymedia.com/masterclasses (UNDERSTANDING YOUR STATS) - Tuesday 12th July 2022 Join THE https://www.bambymedia.com/masterclasses (PODLOVERS+) https://www.bambymedia.com/podcast-equipment (Rode NT-USB Mini) - the microphone I used in this episode Our website: http://www.bambymedia.com (www.bambymedia.com) Join The Pod Lovers free community: http://www.thepodlovers.com (www.thepodlovers.com) Our socials: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn6XPp0MVgHZMndAh-25_Qw (Bamby Media YouTube Channel) https://www.instagram.com/bamby_media/ (@bamby_media) Mentioned in this episode:
Grab a ticket to our MASTERCLASS on UNDERSTANDING YOUR STATS - Tuesday 12th July 2022 https://www.bambymedia.com/masterclasses
If you've clicked on this episode purely because you don't even understand what "listener consumption rate" means, then you are absolutely in the right place. Listen in! Your podcast host of choice (Buzzsprout, Podbean, Captivate...etc) does a pretty damn good job of providing you with really solid statistics about the kinds of people listening to your show. Your host can tell you information such as how many downloads you're receiving per episode, when people are listening, what country they are from, what city they leave in and a few other bits and pieces. What almost all podcast hosts can't show you at the moment is how much of each episode a person is listening to. That is incredibly powerful information because it will inform how you record your content. Apple Podcasts Connect has recently updated the analytics in the backend of your show to give you this information, along with some other stats around your actual follower count (hooray).
In today's episode, I go through what the average listener consumption rate means, and why you should be tracking it to make sure that you're providing the content that your listenership wants to engage with.
LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: https://www.bambymedia.com/masterclasses (Masterclasses or PodLovers+)
https://podcastsconnect.apple.com/ (Apple Podcasts Connect) https://podcasters.spotify.com/ (Spotify for Podcasters)
When you’re creating content for your podcast, it’s important to always have your listener in mind. Now that might seem like a “no duh Brianna” statement, but it is still quite surprising to me how many podcasts I come across in my research that feel like they’re trying to annoy their listener. Of course, I’m sure this isn’t the case. No one wants to purposely piss off their listener. So if you’ve ever wondered whether your show could potentially be annoying - then here’s a few reasons why it could be. 1 - Your Audio Quality Sucks 2 - Badly placed ads 3 - Episodes of Live Recorded Content 4 - Inconsistent Release Dates 5 - Selling Too Hard 6 - You’re Rambling 7 - Too Many Ads
Episodes I mentioned: https://www.bambymedia.com/podcast/the-best-microphone-for-noisy-environments (The best mic for noisy environments:) https://youtu.be/Cv3qdxD0xZk (How to improve your home recording setup) https://www.bambymedia.com/podcast/where-is-the-best-place-to-put-an-ad-in-your-podcast-episode (The best place to put ads in your show)
Our website: http://www.bambymedia.com (www.bambymedia.com)
Join The Pod Lovers free community: http://www.thepodlovers.com (www.thepodlovers.com)
Our socials: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn6XPp0MVgHZMndAh-25_Qw (Bamby Media YouTube Channel) https://www.instagram.com/bamby_media/ (@bamby_media)
Mentioned in this episode: Rode NTH100 Giveaway Instructions Head to Apple Podcasts or Podchaser.com and leave a written review for the Pump Up Your Pod podcast!
Include your Instagram handle if you have one so that we know who you are and you will be in the running!
If you don't have an Insta handle - you can screenshot your entry and send it through to hello@bambymedia.com.
You have until 5pm Wed 21st of June, 2022 to submit your review!
To listen to our review of these headphones head to episode 41: "How to pick the right headphones for you"
If you are looking to upgrade your podcasting equipment for your home, or on location recording then listen on up! Here at Bamby Media we test a lot of equipment and I have a few absolute favourites that I'll be recommending for you on today's episode. With any equipment upgrades, the first thing to check is what you actually NEED. If you already have gear that's working well then don't upgrade. Don't buy things you don't need. I want to get that off my chest first because I am not a fan of pushing people into buying things because they're on "sale". With that aside, here are my personal recommendations for quality gear that will last the distance and will give you that extra level of professionalism that you may currently be lacking. BEST SMALL USB MICROPHONE https://amzn.to/3GT70ZG (Rode NT-USB Mini) Our favourite little microphone that packs a serious punch! Fantastic small microphone that you can easily bring with you on location if you’re recording remotely too. Very simple to use and has an in-built pop filter so you don’t need to buy a separate one. A great all-in-one option for entry level podcasters. It is quite small, so attaching to a boom arm is a good option to get to the right height. BEST STUDIO MICROPHONE https://amzn.to/3awrqLK (Shure MV7 ) High quality USB microphone with a wide spread frequency response and pop filter attached. You will need a stand or boom arm for this microphone. A dynamic microphone with both USB and XLR outputs so you can start using it just with your computer via USB, and then if you upgrade your home studio setup and you switch to XLR, then this microphone is still usable! Connect via USB and explore additional set-up features and Auto Level Mode within the ShurePlus™ MOTIV app, to control your vocal tone, and distance from the microphone. BEST MICROPHONE ACCESSORY https://amzn.to/3GV5I02 (Rode PSA1 Studio Boom Arm) The PSA1 is a professional studio boom arm that allows easy and precise placement of a microphone. It features an innovative parallelogram design that keeps the mic direction constant as the height is adjusted, as well as internal springs for quiet operation. The gold standard for microphone boom arms and a crowd favourite here at Bamby Media.
https://amzn.to/3xmAfRh (Rode PSA1+ Studio Boom Arm) The latest release from Rode and has a few significant improvements from their OG model. The biggest difference is the almost silent operation when moving the microphone around as its fully damped internal springs and neoprene arm cover eliminate mechanical noise for completely silent operation. Integrated cable management ensures your setup is tidy and its extended reach and full 360-degree rotation make it easy to position your microphone exactly where it needs to be.
If you need any other recommendations, head to our Gear section of the Bamby Media website: https://www.bambymedia.com/podcast-equipment (https://www.bambymedia.com/podcast-equipment) Mentioned in this episode: Rode NTH100 Giveaway Instructions Head to Apple Podcasts or Podchaser.com and leave a written review for the Pump Up Your Pod podcast!
Include your Instagram handle if you have one so that we know who you are and you will be in the running!
If you don't have an Insta handle - you can screenshot your entry and send it through to hello@bambymedia.com.
You have until 5pm Wed 21st of June, 2022 to submit your review!
To listen to our review of these headphones head to episode 41: "How to pick the right headphones for you"
Today I’m talking about how to rebrand your podcast. This is something I get asked about a lot and here at Bamby Media we’ve helped a bunch of our clients go through the rebranding process to give their podcasts a nice refresh. It’s like buying a brand new outfit! So if you want to rebrand your show, do you have to start from scratch?
The answer is no! Depending on how far away from your original brand you want to go, it’s totally fine to give your podcast a bit of a refresh with a new name and updated artwork, while still maintaining the original subscribers.
When going through the rebranding process, it’s important to think about your social strategy. In this episode, I talk about making changes to your podcast name, artwork, intro music, and voiceover and how this all ties together to meet your target audience. I also share how to practically make these changes from your podcast distribution platform. It’s actually really easy!
This is quite a topical episode for us as we’re currently in the process of rebranding our original Bamby Media podcast, Convos with Kiddos. I talk a little about this, why we’re rebranding and what you can expect to see in the near future! Make sure you go check it out. It’s a stupidly cute and ridiculous podcast targeted to children and grown-ups and I just adore it.
LINKS
Listen to Convos with Kiddos on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/convos-with-kiddos/id1625617531 (here) Listen to Convos with Kiddos on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/26Ukl5HM2VDwvExa1B0nP4 (here)
Join me in Let’s Get Launchy https://www.thepodlovers.com/landing/plans/189322 (here)!
Our website: http://www.bambymedia.com (www.bambymedia.com)
Join The Pod Lovers free community: http://www.thepodlovers.com (www.thepodlovers.com)
Our socials: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn6XPp0MVgHZMndAh-25_Qw (Bamby Media YouTube Channel) https://www.instagram.com/bamby_media/ (@bamby_media)
How do you pick headphones that are right for you in an absolute sea of choices?
In this episode, I’m going to fill you in on the different types of headphones you can use when recording your podcast. We’ll explore the benefits and limitations of each type and I’ll share with you what I’m using and why it works for me.
But do you even need to wear headphones?
If you’re recording by yourself in a quiet room, you actually don’t need to have headphones on when you’re recording BUT if you want to monitor and hear what your microphone is picking up, you should definitely throw a pair on.
In fact, in most situations, it’s preferable to wear headphones.
I’ll run you through the benefits and limitations of earbuds (both wired and wireless) and overhead headphones.
I’m currently using Rode NTH-100 Headphones and they’re super comfortable, not too heavy and are wired. I have to wear headphones for hours and hours of editing podcasts and often find different brands can become really uncomfortable and start to hurt my head and ears.
The frequency response is also a true indication of the sound which is so important because I need to know how it actually sounds to everyone before I do any editing.
I’m giving away a FREE pair of the Rode NTH-100 headphones! All you have to do is leave Pump Up Your Pod podcast a review on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser, screenshot and then send it to me via Instagram DMs or email me at hello@bambymedia.com.
LINKS
Resources mentioned: NTH-100 | Professional Over-Ear Headphones
Sennheiser CX 100 in Ear Headphone - Black
Join me in Let’s Get Launchy here!
Our website: www.bambymedia.com
Join The Pod Lovers free community: www.thepodlovers.com
Our socials: Bamby Media YouTube Channel @bamby_media
How often should you update your podcast social media assets?
I’ve recently been asked this question through Instagram and it’s so worthwhile that I wanted to bring it to everyone.
Within Bamby Media, we supply social assets in packages to our clients that include snippets, purchased templates with their branding, quote graphics, audiograms and more. Everything changes colours (based on their branding colours) to keep them eye-catching but they’re still the same graphics each week.
It’s a great idea to update your social media asset templates around every 3 to 6 months. Especially if you’re always sharing them the same way on the same platforms - you’ll find your feed filling up with the usual graphics and people won’t engage with them as thoroughly.
I’ll take you through how to provide context for your social assets and gain a bit more longevity out of your templates.
You can also definitely shake things up by sharing a video instead of the usual audiogram. Videos change in every recording so you’ll be able to make every episode interesting and enticing to keep your audience engaged.
LINKS
Join me in Let’s Get Launchy here!
Our website: www.bambymedia.com
Join The Pod Lovers free community: www.thepodlovers.com
Our socials: Bamby Media YouTube Channel @bamby_media
Recently, I read a super interesting article from Marketing Brew that included a survey of 15 podcast industry experts talking about the best place to put an ad in your show.
The results will speak to you whether you’re advertising your own offers and services, doing some affiliate marketing, or running an ad for a sponsor. It’s really important for you to know where to put the ad to maximise conversion.
In this episode, I wanted to explore the results of the survey so you can start using their tips today!
Surprisingly, a longer ad (around 60 to 90 seconds) has a higher rate of converting to sales than if your ad is sitting around the 30 second mark.
You’re able to explore your offer in depth and take the time to convince your audience to find out more. But remember, if you put in too many ads, your listeners will get angry and frustrated and completely switch off from listening.
There’s definitely a balance.
I’ll give you an example of one of my midrolls to showcase where to input your own ad and how engaging it can sound when it’s done with music and sounds awesome.
I’ll then run you through prerolls, midrolls and postrolls to show you the places you can put your ad and which one is the absolute best to engage your listeners.
Take a look at your current advertising strategy and make use of these killer tips today.
Resources mentioned:
https://www.marketingbrew.com/Join me in Let’s Get Launchy here!Join The Pod Lovers free community:
www.thepodlovers.com Our website:
www.bambymedia.com Our socials:
Bamby Media YouTube Channel
@bamby_media
I recently attended one of the biggest global podcasting conferences, ‘Podcast Movement Evolutions’ and thoroughly enjoyed exploring how the American podcasting market (which is much further ahead) can be applied to us here in Australia.
One of the biggest takeaways was - video podcasting.
YouTube has announced its new podcasting department. This is going to change the way we listen to and WATCH podcasts. There is a massive push from YouTube for podcasters to put their shows on YouTube.
This could mean that you can access a brand new audience but what does this mean logistically?
Do you need to have a professional set up and film your podcast episodes each week?
No, don’t stress. But consider looking at having a presence on YouTube because they’ll be pushing this new department hard.
You could do shorts and have an entire channel that’s just snippets of guests and episodes that have amazing content.
Spotify and Twitter have also just announced their video podcasting platform. It’s still early days but it’s another medium you can look at uploading your videos, but you can’t monetize videos on Spotify so if you had to do one - just consider YouTube.
Video podcasting is definitely a very effective way to grab your audience’s engagement and attention - even if it’s only a short snippet, so why not get creative and try something new?
**LINKS
Join me in Let’s Get Launchy here****!
Our website:**
www.bambymedia.com Join The Pod Lovers free community:
www.thepodlovers.com Our socials:
Bamby Media YouTube Channel
@bamby_media
Something that often gets overlooked in podcasting is the value of targeted podcast episode show notes.
Great show notes filled with targeted keywords and key phrases are what will help get your show to the top of the search results. When looking for a new show, many listeners use keywords to search in their podcast app so you want to make sure that your show comes up in that search!
In this episode, I talk about how to increase the searchability of your podcast by writing comprehensive show notes using thoughtful keywords and phrases. I also talk about how to repurpose content by including the show notes on your website and social platforms.
Creating a high quality podcast involves more than just recording an episode and uploading it to a podcast host. Listeners need to be able to find you! If you’re not already including show notes with every one of your podcast episodes, start doing it TODAY!
LINKS
Join me in Let’s Get Launchy here!
Our website:
www.bambymedia.com
Join The Pod Lovers free community:
www.thepodlovers.com
Our socials:
Bamby Media YouTube Channel
@bamby_media
Why isn’t my podcast growing?
Tempted to just give it up and shut down the whole thing?
This is a very common thought and a vast number of podcast shows never make it passed the first 7 episodes!
Firstly, I want to change the thinking that if you’re not having thousands of downloads, it’s not worth doing. You don’t need a big audience to have a successful podcast!
In this episode, I’m going to share why your podcast isn’t growing and what you can do about it. I’ll explore how your guest choice, collaboration and episode frequency all have a big impact on your listenership and are points to consider.
Perhaps your content is getting repetitive. Your audience will most likely jump ship if they’re hearing the same thing every week. So keep your content engaging, exciting and fun!
Examine how you speak to see if you’re monotone and super boring to listen to.
Or maybe your audio quality is just not up to scratch. People don’t want to listen to episodes that have poor production quality and will move over to a show that is more pleasing to the ears.
The MAIN reason why your podcast is not growing is you’re not giving any strategy long enough to work. Downloads don’t all come in within the first few days, they continue throughout the month and even longer so you need to give your strategy time to filter through to your audience.
If you want to learn more about growing your show effectively, join the waitlist for The Pod Lovers Plus!
**LINKS
Previous episodes mentioned:**
- Stop being boring
Join me in Let’s Get Launchy here**!
Our website:**
www.bambymedia.com Join The Pod Lovers free community:
www.thepodlovers.com Our socials:
Bamby Media YouTube Channel
@bamby_media
Do you know the difference between an audio editor and a podcast producer?
If you’re wondering how you can start taking your podcast to the next level, you might want to think about enlisting the help of one or both of these professional services. But first, you need to know what they actually do!
In this episode, I break down what audio editors and podcast producers do specifically and why you might consider engaging them for help with your podcast.
Audio editors and podcast producers have completely different roles. Audio editors are all about making your audio sound beautiful and troubleshooting audio issues. They are the engineers behind the sound.
Podcast producers, on the other hand, look at the broader strategy to help make your show a really good one. They work to improve the quality of the overall show by being involved in content, guest selection, and growth strategy, you name it.
After you listen, have a think about what role you might need to help grow your show.
Bamby Media does it all - so don’t hesitate to get in touch!
USB MICROPHONE OPTIONS:
Rode NT-USB Mini Check out my podcast episode about this mic here
Rode NT-USB
Fancy USB Setup
Rode Podcaster
Rode Shockmount with inbuilt pop filter
Rode Studio Boom Arm
XLR MICROPHONE OPTIONS:
Rode PodMic
BUT if you're wanting to get a bit fancier you can get this one:
Rode Procaster
Then you'll need these accessories:
Rode Shockmount
Rode Studio Boom Arm
Planet Waves XLR Microphone Lead Do NOT skimp on the lead quality. I know you can get them cheaper, but planet waves have the best longevity I've come across (I've had the same leads for almost 10 years and I use them all the time).
Join me in Let’s Get Launchy here!
Our website:
www.bambymedia.com
Join The Pod Lovers free community:
www.thepodlovers.com
Our socials:
Bamby Media YouTube Channel
@bamby_media
I’ve just finished up from virtually attending the Evolutions by Podcast Movement Conference in America. It was amazing and I’ve learned so much, I can’t wait to pass it on!
Today’s episode is all about the ONE question you should NEVER ask your podcast guests.
I know it sounds odd! But this question is too boring and general and leaves you open for a 10 minute backstory that takes up all of your time and loses the interest of your audience.
I’ve been editing podcasts for 8 years, listened to countless episodes and I’ve heard this question over and over again.
I’ll run you through how to handle providing the relevant background information in a very tidy and concise manner that allows you to jump straight into the juicy content of your episode.
We’re also launching Pod Lovers Plus very shortly! If you want to learn how to grow your show, attend masterclasses, and learn structured detailed information to get over a plateau - join the Pod Lovers Community and you’ll be the first to know when it’s released.
LINKSJoin me in Let’s Get Launchy here**!
Our website:**
www.bambymedia.com Join The Pod Lovers free community:
www.thepodlovers.com Our socials:
Bamby Media YouTube Channel
@bamby_media
Have you wondered how to get into the Spotify Podcast Charts?
I’ve previously done an episode on achieving rankings within Apple Charts and Spotify is now pretty much neck and neck in terms of listenership so I’m sharing my expertise today!
But before you decide where to invest your time, consider who your audience is. The younger generation tends to have the bulk of their listeners coming from Spotify while the older generation listens to Apple Podcasts.
Remember there are different types of charts within Spotify, I’ll run you through each one and share how to feature at the top.
One of our clients had an amazing launch process and got into the Spotify charts within the first few days. They had an awesome listenership, was active on socials and followed the launching steps to achieve remarkable results.
I’m excited to give you the tips to land your show on the charts and points to remember to ensure you have a long term strategy in place to keep delivering quality content with exceptional production value.
**LINKS:
Previous episode mentioned:**
How to get into the Apple Podcast Charts Join me in Let’s Get Launchy here**!
Our website:**
www.bambymedia.com Join The Pod Lovers free community:
www.thepodlovers.com Our socials:
Bamby Media YouTube Channel
@bamby_media
Today I’m taking a sidestep away from the topic of podcasting to dive into the organisational software that we use at Bamby Media.
I really love hearing about how other people run their businesses, the programs they use and the systems they have in place. So in this episode, I’m sharing all my favourite platforms and systems - basically the things Bamby Media can’t live without.
I talk about my love for Trello, Mighty Networks, Slack, QuickBooks, the whole flippin Google Suite and more.
What platforms make your business awesome?
LINKS
Affiliate codes:
- Amazon US - bambymediahq-20
- Amazon AU - bambymedia08-22
Join me in Let’s Get Launchy here!
Our website:www.bambymedia.com
Join The Pod Lovers free community:www.thepodlovers.com
Our socials:
Bamby Media YouTube Channel
@bamby_media
Now that you have your trailer episode out of the way, let's take a look at what you've got planned for your first few episodes.
Open up your Production Schedule and see what your plan looks like.
Are these strong episodes?
Do they answer a particular question?
If you're planning on having guests - are these guests likely to share your podcast episode with their following?
It's important with the first few episodes to really hit people in the face with value. Obviously, you want every episode to be jam-packed full of value, but when we go through the launch plan, you'll understand why it's so important to really think about these first few episodes.
Take a moment to see what you have, and if necessary, fiddle with the release if you feel like they aren't strong enough.
You only get the opportunity to launch your show once, so it's good to launch with some absolutely gold content if you can.
LINKS
Join me in Let’s Get Launchy here!
Our website:
www.bambymedia.com
Join The Pod Lovers free community:
www.thepodlovers.com
Our socials:
Bamby Media YouTube Channel
@bamby_media
I'm super excited to share ideas for your 100th podcast episode (or any other milestone episodes) because you should celebrate it!
You’ve made it to 100 episodes - let that sink in.
It’s no small feat to create this much content and it may zoom around faster than you think, especially if you’re releasing more than one episode a week.
So how can you make it special?
In this episode, I’m going to share some fantastic ideas for your century achievement. It’s a great chance to reflect back on your time recording and any lessons you’ve learned. Through experience, I’ve seen how reflection episodes resonate with listeners and are amongst the most popular downloaded.
You can even organise a giveaway or discount for your listeners or cut together snippets from your favourite episodes to show all the fun you’ve had and the content you’ve shared.
If you’re feeling brave, there’s even the possibility of running a LIVE episode with your audience. Everyone loves chiming in and it’s a great opportunity to further connect with your amazing listeners.
There are so many options to make the episode stand out and mark the occasion - I’ll let you know my absolute favourite choice after listening to thousands of episodes.
Of course, you don’t have to do anything special but why not? Make it fun!
**LINKS
Resources mentioned:**
- Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/
Join me in Let’s Get Launchy here**!
Our website:**
www.bambymedia.com Join The Pod Lovers free community:
www.thepodlovers.com Our socials:
Bamby Media YouTube Channel
@bamby_media
Are you feeling like starting a podcast is just not worth doing because the market is already flooded?
We’ve all seen the enormous list of podcast shows on Spotify and Apple - is there any point in starting another one?
I get this question over and over from clients.
But guess what? It doesn’t matter!
There are thousands of different coaches, marketing experts, business strategists etc. in the market but people will always choose to work with someone that resonates with them - it doesn’t matter how many there are out there.
Most business owners start a podcast to support other areas of their business. It’s a brilliant way to show your potential audience more about yourself and your business - Instagram and websites can only go so far. You can share a deeper, more personal level by filling your audience’s ears every week.
Podcasts even have a 98% engagement rate! Listeners tend to stay to the end of each episode to feel connected to you and your message.
So go ahead and pick up the microphone today - you’ll thank yourself later. **LINKS
Join me in Let’s Get Launchy here****!
Our websites:**
www.bambymedia.com Join The Pod Lovers free community:
www.thepodlovers.com Our socials:
Bamby Media YouTube Channel
@bamby_media
Humans have such a short attention span. As podcast hosts, you have to use your audience’s concentration to your advantage so you can’t afford to be boring.
I’ve listened to so many episodes as a podcast producer and I’m here today to share with you what I’ve discovered.
For an awesome killer podcast show, you need to plan and prepare!
Don’t just get on the mic and drone on and on and on…
Snore!
For solo episodes, the longer you’re on the microphone - the more watered down your message becomes. Plan your points out, talk about them, and turn the mic off.
In this episode, I’ll be chatting about what makes a compelling and interesting podcast. First off - Stop being boring!
Then listen to your voice to make sure it’s not monotone, don’t repeat yourself, be succinct and clear in your message and reflect on your content to ensure it resonates with your ideal audience.
Liven up your podcast with these simple tips and your listeners will thank you for it!
**LINKS
Previous podcast mentioned:**
- How long should my podcast episodes be
Our websites:
www.bambymedia.com Join The Pod Lovers free community:
www.thepodlovers.com Our socials:
Bamby Media YouTube Channel
@bamby_media
Private podcasting is a fantastic option for service providers who have courses, memberships, programs, and anything they want to add extra value to for their community.
So what’s the difference between a private and a public podcast?
A private podcast is for your paying audience. Often on free podcasts, we talk about the ‘what’ but it’s in the private podcasts that we can delve deeper and divulge the ‘how’.
They’re perfect for your group coaching, masterclasses, courses and so much more. You can even just strip the video from your masterclasses and presto! You have a podcast episode.
I have my free community ‘The Pod Lovers’ that I absolutely love running. But I’m super pumped to soon be bringing out The Pod Lovers Premium Experience which will be a smaller container for podcast hosts that want to focus on growth, monetisation and connection with others for collaboration.
In this episode, I’ll run you through the way you can operate and host your private podcast and give you my recommendations for a platform to use.
They can be a bit trickier than public podcasts so this episode is definitely for you if you are keen to begin a private podcast for your community today.
**LINKS
Resources mentioned:**
- High Performance Planner OFFICIAL
- Unlimited podcast hosting, analytics & marketing • Captivate.fm
Our websites:
www.bambymedia.com
Join The Pod Lovers free community:
www.thepodlovers.com
Our socials:
Bamby Media YouTube Channel
@bamby_media
Have you been stuck wanting to record your podcast but there’s just too much noise around you?
Planes, cars, kids, dogs, TVs, babies, banging pots in the kitchen, the list goes on and on.
Everyone in your house is walking on tiptoes because the slightest noise will reverberate in the ears of your listeners.
Well, I found the solution!
In this episode, I’m talking about the BEST microphone for all of those noisy environments. I’m using it during this episode so you can hear how crystal clear the sound is even when there’s considerable background noise.
For this demonstration, I’ve enlisted the help of two little people to create a real-time scenario so you can hear how it holds up to children having a fantastic time in the next room.
I’ll then compare it to another superb microphone that podcasters use so you can really hear the difference.
If you’re looking for an easy solution to your noisy recordings (without making everyone wear slippers) - this is the episode for you! **LINKS
Resources mentioned:**
- Headphones via Amazon: https://amzn.to/3GmrqIp (affiliate link)
- Mixer: https://amzn.to/3ITsyVL (affiliate link)
Our websites:
www.bambymedia.com
Join The Pod Lovers free community:
www.thepodlovers.com
Our socials:
@bamby_media
Do you plan out your year ahead?
To be honest, I used to not really bother doing it. Especially in the earlier years of my business. I didn't have "goals" that I wrote down and really thought about. I just let it flow and took the opportunities that felt good.
That actually worked really well for quite awhile.
It allowed me to figure things out as I went because I believe it's important to be super adaptable when you're in the earlier years of business.
But as the years have gone on, the family has grown and the business has grown to include a substantial team, I recognised that I needed to have a solid plan.
Otherwise it would all get a bit bonkers.
In today's episode I give you a look at what's coming for myself personally and professionally in 2022.
I still don't set big "goals" in a traditional way. I just have a clear picture on how I want the year to feel, and what needs to be done in the business to create the space for the other things I also want to achieve in life.
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Find out more about Bamby Media here
As we wrap up the year that was 2021, I take a look at some predictions for the podcasting space in 2022.
There has been a huge amount of growth in the podcasting space in 2022, and in fact more broadly since 2018/19. It's been a very interesting time to be developing in this space, and developing a business that is in such a growth heavy industry.
The focus for 2022 from what I can see is going to be on increasing audience size for existing shows. Yes, there are a lot of new podcasts coming onto the scene, but for those of you that already have a show, you might be starting to see a bit of a plateau and you're wondering how to expand into new markets.
I touch on the value of our Pod Lovers Community and the "Premium Experience" that will be coming for growth strategy specifically in 2022. Stay tuned for that.
I also touch on the way advertising it set to ramp up in 2022, and how the listener feels about the ads that are currently being presented to them via podcasts.
This year also saw the dawn of the podcast subscription model for major players like Apple Podcasts. Can we call this a success for the independent podcasters, at this point - my response is a big fat no. The subscription model still doesn't quite sit right with podcast listeners and needs further development.
With Facebook and YouTube both entering into the world of podcasting, and major media networks expanding into audio content, 2022 is set to be a big one for the industry.
What a great time to be a podcaster!
Links:
Join The Pod Lovers Free Community
Our website
Our instagram
Resources:
Podcasting Predictions from Omnystudio and Triton Digital
Nielsen & Acast Report
As we approach the Christmas and New Year holiday season and we start thinking about taking some time off, it's also important to think about whether your podcast should take some time off.
Listenership really drops from as early as the 12th of December. There's a little spike around those few days between the 27th - 29th of December, but then drops way down again after that.
So with that in mind, if you were thinking about taking some time off - December is the time to do it and feel okay about it. Be back to releasing though by the 5th of January or thereafter because podcast listenership goes WAY UP from there. It stays consistently higher than usual up until the school holidays are over.
For the November - December period the big winners are Education, Leisure and Music related podcasts. Makes sense right? When you're not in your normal routine - you want to be learning something new, or listening to something fun.
This should help you make some decisions about your release schedule for December. If you are going to take a break, this is a perfect time to PROMOTE PREVIOUS PODCAST EPISODES.
Have a look back through your statistics and see what episodes have been the most downloaded, and share those ones again. Why do you re-share what was already popular? Because if it's popular once, there is a HIGH probability that it will be popular the second or even third time around.
It's also an opportunity to look at what episodes perhaps you didn't get a chance to even really promote the first time.
Links Mentioned:
The Pod Lovers - free online podcasting community
Bamby Media Website
Are you struggling to keep up with the release frequency of your podcast?
You begin to start chasing your tail, become out of sync and are constantly feeling the pressure to keep up releasing but it’s just not happening.
Firstly, don’t give yourself a hard time. I understand how super hard it can be to keep coming up with episodes when you’re balancing all the other aspects of your business.
In this episode, I’m going to help you reflect and reassess the purpose of your show to motivate and give you a kick to keep producing.
When you’re feeling like you can’t find the drive, come back to your ‘why’.
Why did you start podcasting in the first place?
What were you trying to achieve?
When we forget our purpose and mission, it can be easy to stray off track and stop releasing episodes. After all, if you see the value in something, you’ll make sure it’s at the top of your priorities.
In my podcast, I know that it’s okay if I’m not releasing every week because I’ve devised specific topics for the show that aren’t impacted by frequency and are in alignment with my mission.
However, if your podcast was set up to drive traffic to your business and stay in the top downloaded charts, then you need to be consistent with it.
Podcast listenership is huge in Australia! It has gone from 5.8 million in April to 9.5 million in October/November alone. That’s a 3.7 million increase in only 5 to 6 months.
So I would strongly recommend for you to keep podcasting. It’s an amazing tool for your business.
Use this wonderful time of year to reflect on 2021 to determine the frequency of episode releases to support your strategy, overall mission and purpose.
And, above all, have fun with it!
LINKS
Our websites:
www.bambymedia.com
Join The Pod Lovers free community:
www.thepodlovers.com
Our socials:
Bamby Media YouTube Channel
@bamby_media
There is definitely an art to being a great interviewer and it’s a skill that takes quite some time to develop.
Anyone who’s done a bit of research can ask questions but often we’re not asking questions that prompt a meaningful response.
There is a huge difference between an "interview" and a "thought-provoking conversation". The latter of the two is the kind of podcast I remember and tell my friends about.
So how do you ask questions that will keep your listener interested, and achieve that deeper connection that you should be striving for?
In this episode, I share some hot tips on how to be an awesome interviewer. I talk about establishing a goal for your podcast, doing research on previous interviews and how to get more juicy information out of your guest.
How could your guest episodes be more interesting? Are you asking the same old questions? Or could you go deeper in some way?
LINKS
Our websites:
www.bambymedia.com
Join The Pod Lovers free community:
www.thepodlovers.com
Our socials:
Bamby Media YouTub
I get a little nerdy in this episode because who doesn’t love a good pie chart and statistic, right?
Stats don’t lie people and it’s super fun to track the growth of your podcast over time to see how things are going. Make sure you’re with a podcast host who provides good statistics because there are some really useful things you can do with them.
In this episode, I list some of the things to take note of when checking out your stats. I talk about downloads per episode, what platforms your listeners are tuning in on, your most popular episodes, targeting your demographic and more.
Now don’t get obsessed with it. It’s all about tracking your growth over time and if you see a theme happening with particular episodes, start doing more of them. Have fun with it!
RESOURCES MENTIONED:
Buzzsprout:https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1281877
OmnyStudio:https://omnystudio.com/learn
LINKS
Our websites:
www.bambymedia.com
Join The Pod Lovers free community:
www.thepodlovers.com
Our socials:
Bamby Media YouTube Channel
@bamby_media
It’s a really great thing to have guests on your show but if the audio is dodgy, your listeners might struggle to keep tuning in.
So what’s the best way to record your guest episodes to get killer audio?
There are many ways to go about it so in this episode, I run you through a few of them and break down some of the differences. From basic methods using free software to more high tech solutions for all you savvy podcasters, there’s something out there for everyone.
I talk about some of the practical things to remember when recording guest audio, how to record your guests using the same software you use for your solo episodes and I share a rave review of Riverside, which is a software I highly recommend.
The most important thing to remember is to have fun! Listen intently to what your guests are saying so you can keep a conversation going that your listeners will enjoy.
RESOURCES MENTIONED:
Riverside:Sign up using my affiliate linkhere
Garageband:Mac and PC
Audacity:https://www.audacityteam.org/
Podcast mentioned: SmartLess
LINKS
Our websites:
www.bambymedia.com
Join The Pod Lovers free community:
www.thepodlovers.com
Our socials:
Bamby Media YouTube Channel
@bamby_media
To swear, or not to swear...that is the question.
At the end of the day, it's always going to come back to your personal preference.
You make up your own rules when it comes to the content that you distribute on your podcast, but there are certainly things to consider when it comes to using profanities in your show.
Who is your target audience?
What industry are you targeting?
Is there a specific niche that you need to be considering?
Do you have a sponsor relationship that may not take kindly to having their brand associated with a bunch of expletives.
If swearing is a part of who you are (ahem...Gary Vee) then it makes sense for you to keep the swears in there. It would be weirder almost not to hear them.
Just make sure you've considered why the swear words are there, and whether they're necessary.
RESOURCES MENTIONED:
- Sign up to Buzzsprout here
- Microphone used to record this podcast episode: Rode NT-USB Mini
- Recording software: Pro Tools
Links:
Instagram: @bamby_media
Website: www.bambymedia.com
So you’ve got your super awesome podcast episodes recorded and ready to go. What’s the next step?
How the heck do you get your episodes on a platform so that people can hear them?
This is where a podcast host comes in. You’ll need one of those to get your podcast onto all the platforms for all the ears to hear.
There are a lot of podcast hosts out there and my pick of the litter is without a doubt, Buzzsprout. Trust me, I’ve used them all. Some are free, some cost a bit of money. Some are great and give you a whole bunch of other benefits and some are pretty clunky and annoying to use.
In this episode, I tell you all about why I love Buzzsprout so much and some of the great features it has. I definitely recommend you go sign up if you haven’t already.
RESOURCES MENTIONED:
- Sign up to Buzzsprout here
- Microphone used to record this podcast episode: Rode NT-USB
- Recording software: Pro Tools
LINKS
Our websites:
www.bambymedia.com
Join The Pod Lovers free community:
www.thepodlovers.com
Our socials:
Bamby Media YouTube Channel
@bamby_media
I love hearing from people who have begun their podcast, are really excited about their message, and are now wondering how to make money from their show.
There are different methods to earning money from your podcast, but the one I want to talk about today is finding sponsors.
Unfortunately, the reality is if you are not reaching 2,500 downloads within the first 7 days of a podcast episode release date, you will struggle to get sponsorship brands to come to you.
So, I encourage you to be bold and approach sponsors!
The key is to make it super enticing for the sponsor to partner with you by having a following across different platforms and a sizable mailing list.
You can achieve this by negotiating a midroll ad, or state that the sponsor will also be featured within your mailing list, or use a sponsored post on Instagram. There are many different and effective ways to market your partnership. Get creative!
My advice - Don’t try to go for big sponsors.
Choose a smaller brand that really appeals to you and your business.
In this episode, I share my insights on the pricing models available for determining your sponsorship amount.
But remember, the final amount is a collaborative effort between you and the brand, so make your presentation really attractive to them.
I also always encourage my clients to make sure they choose their sponsors wisely.
Find sponsors that are in line with your brand and your message and keep the ads in your show to a minimum.
Come and have a look at my website and join The Pod Lovers community if you are interested in beginning your own podcast journey. It is an amazing community that is full of support and a wealth of information for podcasters.
Thank you for listening!
LINKS
Our websites:
www.bambymedia.com
Join The Pod Lovers free community:
www.thepodlovers.com
Our socials:
Bamby Media YouTube Channel
@bamby_media
More often than not, when you're a new client joining the Bamby Media client roster and you submit your first recorded audio to us, we get this question...
"Do I Really Sound Like That?!"
You think you sound terrible. You're not used to the sound of your own voice and you feel so nervous about having other people listen to you.
It's not a normal thing for us to hear ourselves in our own headphones right?
Understandably, it makes you feel a little uneasy.
But don’t stress - you don’t sound terrible! You are just not used to the way your voice sounds.
I am so excited to give you some really useful tips that you can easily perform when you’re recording your podcast to help ensure that your voice is sounding amazing.
Whether you are worried about your voice sounding monotone, shrill, high pitched, nervous or you’re using filler words like ‘um’ or ‘ah’ too much, I will give you practical methods to improve the quality of your audio and ensure your podcast sounds impressive and professional.
And if you still can’t stand the sound of your voice - it’s simple, don’t listen to it! Send it off to an editor who can work their magic and listen and edit it for you while you sit back and relax.
LINKS
Rode NT-USB Mini
Listen to:
The best microphone for recording your podcast with your phone
Our websites:
www.bambymedia.com
Join The Pod Lovers free community:
www.thepodlovers.com
Our socials:
Bamby Media YouTube Channel
@bamby_media
I love podcasting. I love listening to them, I love making them, I love helping my clients make them.
But I don’t think everyone should have a podcast.
If you’re thinking about starting a podcast, whether it’s to help grow your business or just for fun and giggles, there are definitely a few things to think about before you take the plunge.
In this episode, I chat about how to know if it’s the right time for you to start a podcast and share some of my thoughts on how to know you’re ready.
It’s a lot of effort to run a podcast, so you need to be able to invest time and resources into doing it properly.
Instead of rushing in and doing it because everyone else is doing it, take your time to do your research and put the groundwork in. Make sure you’re doing it for the right reasons, be consistent and most importantly, have fun with it.
LINKS
Listen to “How much time does it take to run a podcast”
Our websites:
www.bambymedia.com
Join The Pod Lovers free community:
www.thepodlovers.com
Our socials:
Bamby Media YouTube Channel
@bamby_media
I have a new little friend who I’m very pleased to introduce you to and it’s name is Rode NT-USB Mini. That’s right, my friend is a microphone.
In this episode, I give you a rundown of why I love this microphone so much (and Rode in general) and why it’s definitely the one I recommend to my clients. It’s affordable, it’s compact, it’s got a good frequency response AND it comes with a snazzy piece of software that makes podcasting so much easier (and fun!).
If you don’t have a microphone yet or you’re in the market to upgrade your home studio, definitely check this little guy out. Also make sure you go and watch my YouTube tutorial so you can see the Rode Connect software in action.
Happy podcasting!
LINKS
Resources mentioned:
- Buy the Rode NT-USB Mini on Amazon
- Buy the Adapter Lightning to USB on Amazon
- Rode Connect
Our websites:
www.bambymedia.com
Join The Pod Lovers free community:
www.thepodlovers.com
Our socials:
Bamby Media YouTube Channel
@bamby_media
A lot of work goes into hosting a podcast. You want to know that people are listening and you also want to know why.
What are they getting out of it? What do they enjoy? What don’t they enjoy? The only way to find out this information is for your listeners to review your show.
In this episode, I share some quick tips on how to get more reviews and why you want them in the first place. I talk about prompting listeners to do the reviewing, giving them an incentive to do so and I share some different ways you can go about doing that.
I also bust a myth about reviews impacting the algorithm and talk about repurposing your reviews for social media content.
While we’re on the topic, go ahead and review my show! I’d love to hear what you think.
LINKS
Our websites:
www.bambymedia.com
Join The Pod Lovers free community:
www.thepodlovers.com
Our socials:
Bamby Media YouTube Channel
@bamby_media
So you’ve got a kick ass podcast and you want to get it onto the Apple Podcast charts, right? I’ve got a pretty juicy tip for you today as I talk about the best way to do this when you’re first launching your show.
In this episode, I talk about launching your show with as many episodes as you possibly can to boost your download numbers and crack the charts code. This means being super duper organised with heaps of episodes ready to roll, which may not be easy for everyone. I talk about the pros and cons of releasing multiple episodes in one day and some other options to consider when launching your show.
The thing to remember with podcasting is that it’s a long game. There’s no quick win in this industry and you’ve got to be all about long term growth.
RESOURCES MENTIONED
Get the Bamby Media Production Schedule Template here
LINKS
Our websites:
www.bambymedia.com
Join The Pod Lovers free community:
www.thepodlovers.com
Our socials:
Bamby Media YouTube Channel
@bamby_media
What is the most important aspect when it comes to growing your podcast?
The answer is GOOD content. Pretty simple right?
In this episode, I talk about why valuable content is the biggest hack when it comes to building popularity. I talk through the importance of establishing your uniqueness and developing the art of making your content interesting. I share some ideas on how to develop your content, map it out using our production schedule template and how to avoid chasing your tail when it comes to putting episodes out there.
Whether you’re just getting started or your show has been running for a while, take the time to really look at your content and do the research to create a fantastic show.
Would YOU listen to your show?
RESOURCES MENTIONED
Get the Bamby Media Production Schedule Template here
LINKS
Our websites:
www.bambymedia.com
www.creativebrandinglab.com
Our socials:
Bamby Media YouTube Channel
@bamby_media
There are a LOT of podcasts out there. So how is your show going in the mix of them all?
In this episode, I talk about how many downloads are a good amount of downloads and why it’s not necessarily the only metric you should be looking at.
I share some great resources you can use to see where your show is sitting on a global scale and how to check your podcast stats to track the growth of your show.
Statistics indicate that if you have over 30 downloads per episode, you’re doing really well.
So, how is your show going?
RESOURCES MENTIONED
Listennotes:https://www.listennotes.com
Buzzsprout Global Stats:https://www.buzzsprout.com/global_stats
Join Buzzsprout:https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1281877
LINKS
Our websites:
www.bambymedia.com
www.creativebrandinglab.com
Our socials:
Bamby Media YouTube Channel
@bamby_media
There are many reasons why you might want to transcribe your podcast.
Maybe you want to make your podcast accessible to those who are unable to hear.
You want to reach an audience that prefers to read than listen.
You want to make it easier for people to find the information that you mention in the podcast, so that they can get the takeaways or key info.
Transcribing your podcast is a great way to do all of those things, and today I want to walk you through the ways that you’re able to transcribe.
In this episode, I run through different services you can use to transcribe your show, the pros and cons of each and I talk a little about which services I prefer to use and why.
The biggest deciding factor as to how you want to transcribe your shows will always be a cost vs time conversation.
If you are on a smaller budget, but have time to devote to proofreading, AI will be fine. If you don’t have time, and your budget allows for a human transcription, that is absolutely my preference.
Enjoy!
RESOURCES MENTIONED
www.happyscribe.com
www.rev.com
LINKS
Our websites:
www.bambymedia.com
www.creativebrandinglab.com
Our socials:
Bamby Media YouTube Channel
@bamby_media
What platform are you listening to this podcast episode on right now?
As a podcast host, you want to know where listeners are going to source their shows. In this episode I talk about which platforms have the market share so you can make sure your show is available to all those hungry listeners out there.
I give some up to date stats about Apple and Spotify and how things have changed quite drastically for them in terms of listenership. I also talk about what most podcasts are doing in terms of frequency of delivery and episode length, which confirms the recommendations I’ve been sharing with you all.
Statistics don’t lie people!
RESOURCES MENTIONED
https://www.buzzsprout.com/global_stats
LINKS
http://www.bambymedia.com
http://www.creativebrandinglab.com
Bamby Media YouTube Channel
I’m sharing a super hot tip today for how you can get fantastic audio quality for a pretty small cost. If you’re recording your podcast with your phone, the microphone I recommend in this episode will definitely help solve a lot of audio problems for you.
The great thing about this mic is that you plug it into your phone and you’re good to go. That means better audio for not only your podcast but your socials too.
So basically, it’s a no brainer.
Go buy it!
RESOURCES MENTIONED
Buy the Rode mic for iphone here
Buy the Rode mic for android here
Our websites:
www.bambymedia.com
www.creativebrandinglab.com
Our socials:
Bamby Media YouTube Channel
Instagram: @bamby_media
Hosting a podcast is a lot of work so you want to know whether what you’re putting out there, is resonating with your audience.
Getting feedback is such a great way to know you’re hitting the mark and steer the show in a way that’s more relatable to your audience. If your audio sucks ass, you bet you’re going to see that feedback in your reviews.
If you speak in a monotone and put your listeners to sleep (and it’s not on purpose), you’re going to see that in your reviews.
If you’re kicking ass and people love what you’re providing, you definitely want to see that!
But how do you actually see your reviews? Truth is, as of right now it’s a bit annoying (although Apple is about to make it a lot easier). So in this episode, I run through a little tutorial of exactly how to do it using some free resources out there. I also talk about responding to the listeners who are leaving reviews and share some tips on how to go about that.
RESOURCES MENTIONED
www.chartable.com
www.podkite.com
Our websites:
www.bambymedia.com
www.creativebrandinglab.com
Our socials:
Bamby Media YouTube Channel
Instagram: @bamby_media
Theme music is a fun topic for me because I LOVE music. For a long time, I was a songwriter, composer, singer, musician and did lots of fun stuff all to do with music. I have a degree in music production and have lived and breathed music for a long time.
In this episode, I talk about podcast theme music and how it can be used, or not used, to emphasise your brand. I go through some examples of top episodes on Apple Podcasts and discuss how they have used their music to reinforce their brand in an effective way.
Whether your podcast is silly or serious, short and snappy or long drawn-out conversations, it’s important to think about your brand as a whole and what kind of music, if any, would make sense for you.
RESOURCES MENTIONED
Artlist.io: https://artlist.io/Brianna-281659
Audio Jungle: https://1.envato.market/2qLgD
Musicbed: https://www.musicbed.com/
LINKS
Let Us Find Your Theme Music For you
Our websites:
www.bambymedia.com
www.creativebrandinglab.com
Our socials:
Bamby Media YouTube Channel
Instagram: @bamby_media
I’m talking frequency today and not in an audio nerd way, but in terms of how often you should be putting your podcast episodes out there. In an ideal world, you’d be trying for at least 1 or 2 episodes a week, but there are other factors you need to consider before you get going.
In this episode, I share some tips to help you get organised and determine an episode frequency that’s realistic for you to achieve. I talk about batching episodes, the importance of being consistent and the benefits of using a production schedule to map out future episodes.
RESOURCES MENTIONED
Production schedule template:
Our websites:
www.bambymedia.com
www.creativebrandinglab.com
Our socials:
Bamby Media YouTube Channel
Instagram: @bamby_media
How long should my episodes be? This is a question I get asked a lot and theoretically, like a piece of string, you can have them as long as you flippin like. In saying that, there are a number of things to think about before getting stuck into recording.
In this episode, I discuss a few of the factors to consider when thinking about the length of your podcast episodes. I talk about solo episodes, interviewing guests and share some examples of why keeping episodes on the shorter side will get a better success rate of people listening all the way to the end. And that’s what you want.
At the end of the day, it’s your podcast so you get to decide how long it is. The biggest hurdle to overcome is delivering quality content to keep the listeners engaged. And then, have fun!
Our websites:
www.bambymedia.com
www.creativebrandinglab.com
Our socials:
Bamby Media YouTube Channel
Instagram: @bamby_media
So you’re keen to start a podcast - yay! But how long will it take exactly? Having a great idea for a show is the first step but determining how much time you invest each week depends on a few different factors. So before you get cranking, I’ve got a few things for you to keep in mind to make sure you’re good to go.
In this episode, I give you the rundown of the key aspects of producing a show and an idea of how much time you’ll need to invest to keep pumping out your episodes each week. The biggest deciding factor is the length of your episodes. Will they be short and sharp solo episodes or chatty conversations with guests? I talk about how this all plays into the investment of time for research, recording, editing and show notes.
I cover the basics of producing a show and also talk about extra add ons such as creating graphics and audiograms to post on social media, different types of transcriptions and whether or not you’ll be uploading to your website. There’s heaps you can do so now it’s just a matter of deciding how much time you want to spend doing it. Have fun!
RESOURCES MENTIONED
www.headliner.app
www.rev.com
www.otter.ai
www.happyscribe.com
LINKS
Special Pump Up Your Pod Course Discount of Fun Times Info:
Learn More About Pump Up Your Pod
https://www.creativebrandinglab.com/pumpupyourpod
Use the code “PUMPITUP” at checkout for AU$200 off (only available for the pay in full payment)
This code expires on the 7th of June and the course begins on the 8th of June, 2021.
Our websites:
www.bambymedia.com
www.creativebrandinglab.com
Our socials:
Bamby Media YouTube Channel
Instagram: @bamby_media
Welcome to the first ever episode of Pump Up Your Pod! I’m obsessed with sound and for the last 6 years, I’ve been having the best time of my life as head honcho at Bamby Media. We know HEAPS about podcasting, working with over 70 global clients to create their digital content, and this show is all about helping you make YOUR podcast kick ass.
I’ll be sharing tips, providing training, answering your questions down to the nitty gritty stuff and generally supporting you to help you pump up your podcast and have fun doing it. When you do it right, your business, your personal brand and your reach is only ever going to expand. What’s not to love about that?
In this trailer episode, I share a bit about myself, how I got into the fascinating world of podcasting and why you should listen to me when it comes to making your podcast better. Thanks for coming along for the ride. I guarantee it’s going to be fun!
LINKS
www.bambymedia.comwww.creativebrandinglab.com
Bamby Media YouTube Channel