In this episode titled “IAB Certification, CodeADX & Artificial Intelligence,” hosts Todd Cochrane and Rob Greenlee start the discussion with a light banter about the live streaming process, noting the quickness in going live and the importance of engaging the audience promptly to prevent drop-offs.

They transition into a deeper discussion about podcasting, specifically focusing on the IAB (Interactive Advertising Bureau) certification that Todd’s company has recently undergone. Todd highlights that they are one 11 companies that have been certified for version 2.2 of the standards and mentions those who have not completed this process.

There’s an emphasis on the need for robust fraud prevention measures in podcasting analytics as Todd explains how their recent recertification has led to identifying dubious activities related to podcast download metrics that seemed inflated. One podcaster, using a PR firm to boost their numbers, faced a significant drop in their statistics after improvements were implemented to track legitimate downloads accurately. Todd discusses how some podcasts experienced rapid growth in downloads which turned out to be artificially inflated due to questionable practices of a PR firm.

Rob raises a philosophically interesting question about whether stricter metrics are beneficial for the industry and how companies might not want to lower their numbers for business model reasons. They both emphasize the importance of understanding actual download statistics over inflated figures primarily driven by ad revenue motivations.

The conversation then shifts toward their partnership with CodeADX, a service aimed at podcasters to help them leverage exclusive affiliate deals with vendors. Todd explains how CodeADX works, highlighting the better exclusivity deals compared to typical affiliate marketing platforms. He shares his own positive experiences integrating CodeADX into his shows, noting the gradual buildup of sales through repeated promotion.

Next, Todd and Rob pivot to the topic of artificial intelligence (AI), examining its growing influence in the podcasting space. Rob expresses how AI is being utilized for various tasks, including voice cloning, audio editing, and marketing. He discusses how AI-generated videos are gaining popularity on platforms like YouTube and raises the question of what makes a video podcast different from regular YouTube videos.

The hosts touch on the potential ramifications of AI in content creation, including how it could affect human podcast creators. They ponder whether AI could generate better podcasts than humans in the future, acknowledging that AI currently lacks genuine creative instincts but has the capacity to analyze and compile information efficiently. Todd shares his experience of using AI tools to help outline scripts for projects, emphasizing that while AI saves time, human oversight remains crucial for maintaining quality and authenticity.

As the conversation progresses, they consider the potential market dynamics where AI content could overshadow human content, leading to deeper debates about authenticity in creation. They explore the possibility of AI intelligently creating content, driving systemic change in content production, and even hinting at the transformational potential of AI coupled with quantum computing.

Finally, they contemplate whether human podcasters can survive in an age where AI plays a significant role in content creation. Todd asserts that humans will always seek authenticity and connection, suggesting that despite technological advances, the desire for genuine human interaction will be paramount.

Rob wraps up discussing how AI agents could potentially help streamline content creation and enhance human capabilities, leading to a future where creators adapt and leverage these technologies intelligently. The episode concludes with an open dialogue about the future of AI in podcasting while being cautious about its implications for human content creators.

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Local Podcasting: Should we lean in, or is it for naught? In this episode, “The Power of Local Content in Podcasting,” hosts Todd Cochrane and Rob Greenlee welcome listeners and mark their six-hundred-sixteenth episode. They humorously suggest that donations of $616 be a worthy goal. They engage in light banter about their podcasting journey, donation requests, and the value they believe they bring to their audience.

The discussion then shifts to the importance of audience engagement as they explore podcasting about major platforms like YouTube. Todd mentions an interesting point brought up by Rob: Google CEO Sundar Pichai highlighted podcasting during a quarterly earnings call, suggesting that YouTube is becoming a significant problem.

Todd also shares insights about a new product called Katana, which enhances Zoom recordings for podcasters and video creators. Rob responds by noting a trend of platforms integrating AI tools to streamline content creators’ processes, highlighting the efficiency of these new technologies.

The conversation evolves toward the evolution of podcasting tools and workflows. Todd discusses how advancements have allowed for quicker production times, benefiting independent creators who often work solo. Rob emphasizes the pressure of content creators wishing to grow audiences and monetize their efforts, reflecting on the shift toward professionalization in podcasting.

The hosts also touch on the decline of local content in media, expressing concern that many creators focus on broader or national narratives rather than addressing local issues that engage communities. They discuss how regional radio stations have lost their uniqueness through syndication, leading to less community involvement.

They highlight that awareness and participation in local matters tend to surge only when something negatively affects the local community. This leads to discussions on how the younger generation might lack interest in local issues compared to national or global events.

As the episode progresses, Todd and Rob discuss broader industry trends, touching on issues like layoffs and the emergence of new startups within the podcasting sector. They examine the potential future of balancing audio and video podcasting.

Further, they delve into advertising and monetization, debating the ethics of guests paying to be on specific podcasts. They also mention notable figures in the industry the shift towards more transparency in podcasting-related agreements, and the broader implications these changes have for content creation.

Before wrapping up, Todd mentions his positive experience with GoDaddy’s promotional codes and comments on unexpected conversion growth. They conclude by discussing the potential impact of legislative changes on NPR and the podcasting community and anticipate the continued evolution of local content’s role in podcasts.

Overall, the episode highlights the challenges and opportunities in podcasting, the significance of local content, and the ongoing shifts in the industry landscape. Todd and Rob sign off, encouraging listeners to stay engaged in their local communities and consider the power of localized podcasting as part of the broader media conversation.

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In this episode hosts Todd Cochrane and Rob Greenlee reconnect after attending Podfest in Orlando, where they briefly discuss the unexpected cold weather during the event and provide updates on their activities since returning home. A big disclosure by Todd reveals his experimentation with chapter files to track ad engagement more effectively, detailing how he tested this by placing chapter files related to a GoDaddy advertisement within his show, allowing him to gather listener data without needing assistance from their podcast host.

They begin their discussion by highlighting upcoming guests on their shows, including someone from Adobe Podcasts, while Todd hints at a significant announcement from Apple that he can’t yet disclose due to a non-disclosure agreement (NDA). Rob shares insights about the recent Podcast Hall of Fame event, describing improvements in production compared to previous years but noting some remaining rough edges.

The hosts contemplate the future of the Podcast Hall of Fame, emphasizing the need for greater international participation in nominations and voting, as well as the challenge of having a broad knowledge of international podcasters. They explore the growing interest in podcasting among businesses, with Todd reporting an increase in inquiries and interest from international organizations—a sign of a potential revenue revival.

They shift their conversation to major podcasting platforms, discussing Spotify’s, including Google’s strategic play in removing Google Podcast to shift focus to YouTube. They express concern over how video content is affecting traditional audio podcasting and note a divergence in opinions regarding video in the podcast space.

The hosts also share their observations from Podfest, discussing the types of vendors present, such as Adobe and Shure, and expressing a need for more creators to engage with the event. They reminisce about the mixed attendance figures and the potential for the event to grow.

Toward the end, they comment on the new awards being offered by Spotify and the changing landscape of advertising in podcasting, noting the importance of emotional and engaging ads compared to bland ones.

After a brief diversion into speculative discussion around TikTok’s presence and recent government scrutiny, they return to talk about the future of traditional media companies and their adaptation to the growing importance of online podcasting. They conclude the episode by inviting listeners to offer feedback and tips for future shows while discussing the potential restructuring of their YouTube channel.

The episode wraps up, and the hosts encourage follow-ups and donations for the show, ending with a lighthearted banter about their next episode and thank the audience for listening.

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In this engaging episode of the New Media Show, recorded at Podfest 2025, hosts Todd Cochrane and Rob Greenlee explore the dynamic and evolving landscape of podcasting with industry insiders Rocky Thomas and John Miles. The live setting at Podfest added a vibrant atmosphere, and several key themes and debates are tackled throughout the episode.

**Introduction by Todd Cochrane**
Todd begins by welcoming the audience both at Podfest and online, highlighting the dual audio-visual format of the podcast and its broad accessibility across multiple platforms.

**Introductions and Discussion Led by Rob Greenlee**
Rob dives into the discussion by introducing the panel guests, Rocky Thomas, a seasoned figure in the podcast advertising space, and John Miles, a successful podcast host focused on personal success content. Rob emphasizes gathering diverse insights on podcasting trends and future directions.

**Perspectives on Current Podcast Trends**
The discussion opens with John Miles addressing some recent statistics showing the selective activity of podcasts. He discusses his personal journey into podcasting, reinforced by a challenge from a fellow podcaster that echoed the resilience needed in the industry.

Rocky Thomas elaborates on the demographic shifts and the significant role storytelling plays in the podcast’s broader acceptance and integration into mainstream media. The conversation shifts towards the commercial aspects, with Rocky discussing the evolution of podcast advertising and the current trends in programmatic advertising within the space.

**Deep Dive into Podcast Longevity and Audience Engagement**
Todd shares insights into what keeps a podcast going, noting statistical trends on podcast longevity and the crucial marker of a two-year commitment, which often dictates sustained success. He speaks to the persistent audience’s presence despite a drop in active podcasts, highlighting the growth opportunities for persistent podcasters.

**Technical Difficulties and Continued Discussion**
The episode faces some technical hiccups with microphones, adding a touch of humor and realness to the live recording. Despite this, the conversation flows into deeper topics like local advertising in podcasts, the potential for niche market success, and the actual impact of podcasting on local communities, focusing intensely on listener engagement and content relevance.

**Audience Engagement and Questions**
Towards the end, the floor opens for audience questions, which leads to further discussion on specific audience engagement strategies and personal anecdotes from the panelists about their podcasting experiences and philosophies.

**Closing Thoughts**
The episode wraps with final thoughts from each guest, emphasizing the diverse uses and impacts of podcasting, from advertising to personal growth and community building. Todd and Rob encourage the listeners to engage with podcasting content actively and invite them to explore the discussed concepts further in their podcasting endeavors.

The episode effectively captures the essence and challenges of modern podcasting, offering invaluable insights directly from experienced voices in the industry while engaging with the community present at Podfest 2025, making for a comprehensive and enlightening discussion.

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The episode starts with Todd Cochrane and Rob Greenlee discussing the complexities of keeping up with technological updates and verifications. They illustrate the rapid pace of technological advancements and their impact on their daily podcasting operations, setting the tone for a conversation on how these technologies intersect with new media.

1. **Podscribe December Ranker Analysis:**
The hosts discuss the details of the Podscribe December Ranker, which lists the top podcasting platforms and their performance on RSS and YouTube.
– Rob shares insights about discrepancies noted in podcast plays via RSS feeds compared to YouTube, highlighting the differences in metrics and what counts as a play on each platform.
– The discussion raises questions about the reliability of Podscribe’s data and what it truly represents, pointing to the need for clarity and transparency in the podcasting data metrics.

2. **Growth Trends in Podcast Consumption:**
The hosts discuss notable growth trends in podcast consumption across different platforms, focusing on audio-first platforms showing significant month-over-month growth.
– They also examine how video podcasts perform compared to audio podcasts, with some platforms showing higher engagement on YouTube.

3. **The Challenges of Measuring Podcast Success:**
The conversation shifts to the complexities of measuring podcast success in terms of plays and downloads, exploring how these metrics differ significantly between platforms like YouTube and traditional RSS feeds.
– They touch upon monetization differences, highlighting how YouTube monetizes views compared to how traditional podcast ads are integrated and measured.

4. **The Future of Podcasting:**
The discussion also covers predictions for the podcasting industry, including the integration of AI in podcast production and potential trends in the next 1-2 years.
– The hosts speculate on the continuing convergence of audio and video in podcasting, discussing how this hybrid model may shape the industry’s future landscape.

In conclusion, Todd and Rob encapsulate a broad analysis of the current state and potential future of podcasting, emphasizing the need for more transparent data to better understand consumption patterns across different platforms. This episode sheds light on the evolving nature of podcasting as it straddles the lines between traditional audio formats and the burgeoning video podcasting scene.

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In this podcast episode, hosts Todd Cochrane and Rob Greenlee dive deep into the controversy surrounding the Honey Extension and its impacts on affiliate marketing. The episode unfolds with both hosts catching up and sharing brief updates about their personal and professional activities, notably referencing Todd’s impending return to the United States and Rob’s back-to-back podcast sessions.

The main topic emerges when Todd introduces his longstanding issues with the Honey plugin. This browser extension by PayPal aims to help users find discounts and promotional codes while shopping online. However, Todd expresses significant frustration, explaining how his exclusive promo codes were used on Honey without linking to his affiliate rewards. He describes the situation as deceptive, claiming Honey usurps the benefits typically intended for original publishers like himself.

Rob, intrigued, asks Todd how users are attracted to install Honey, pondering on the perceived benefits versus the ethical pitfalls highlighted by Todd. The conversation intensifies as Todd describes a scheme where Honey potentially and illicitly overrides affiliate links, diverting the earnings from creators to itself when users make purchases through affiliate links while activating the plugin.

The hosts discuss the broader implications for all content creators who use affiliate marketing to monetize their platforms. Todd shares a historical analogy with his dealings with Commission Junction (CJ), outlining how challenges with affiliate link tracking led to significant revenue discrepancies. He advises that podcasters and creators using such systems advocate for better attribution of manual promo code entries at checkout to ensure deserved earnings aren’t withheld due to technical oversights.

Throughout the discussion, Rob and Todd ponder the ethical questions surrounding companies like PayPal (owner of Honey) and their responsibilities versus the monetization struggles of independent creators. By the end of the episode, they segue slightly into the anticipated impact of video content on podcasting, a topic sparked by a piece from journalist Nick Quah discussing the evolving media landscape where video content might overshadow traditional podcast formats.

The episode wraps up with the hosts reflecting on their experiences with affiliate systems, the ongoing technological evolutions in content discovery and monetization, and the broader changes in the podcasting industry. They emphasize the importance of reliable, creator-friendly platforms that support sustainable monetization strategies amidst evolving digital landscapes.

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In this episode of the New Media Show, hosted by Todd Cochrane and Rob Greenlee, the hosts discuss their predictions for podcasting in 2025.

The conversation starts with Todd discussing the various online streaming platforms he has been experimenting with, specifically StreamYard, Riverside, and Restream. He shares frustrations about these platforms’ usability features, noting that specific platforms lack efficient screen-switching capabilities, which frustrate his workflow during live-streamed tech shows.

Rob then suggests considering OBS as an alternative, noting its steep learning curve but potential benefits. Todd laments spending on multiple streaming services that don’t meet all his needs. They agree that while some services come close to perfect with certain features, others lag frustratingly behind.

As the conversation evolves, they delve into broader predictions for podcasting in 2025. Both hosts agree that video podcasting will continue to gain attention, though they share concerns about whether monetization models for video content will become viable for creators. They also predict a rise in highly specialized podcasting networks focusing on niches, reflecting a media industry trend towards more targeted content offerings.

The conversation concludes with speculation about new technologies impacting podcasting, like evolving AI capabilities that might alter content production and distribution. The participants express skepticism about AI in content creation and stress the importance of authenticity in human-generated content.

Overall, the episode captures technical frustrations, insights into evolving media strategies, and thoughtful predictions about the podcasting industry’s trajectory into 2025. It is wrapped up in a candid and engaging conversation between two veterans in the field.

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In this podcast episode titled “Tired of the Video Discussion? Thank, Spotify / YouTube,” hosts Todd Cochrane and Rob Greenlee engage in a comprehensive discussion around various aspects of podcasting, technology, and media platforms. The episode initiates with Todd explaining their switch to a new recording platform, Riverside, due to issues with video quality on other platforms. Both hosts express their frustrations with the limitations and changes in video uploading and streaming on platforms like Restream and StreamYard.

As the conversation progresses, they delve into recent developments with Riverside, including a significant funding round and new features like multitrack editing tools. Discussion shifts to general platform updates and their implications for content creators, highlighting how different platforms are integrating tools that simplify the content creation process and offer direct publishing to platforms like YouTube.

Midway through the episode, Todd and Rob discuss broader trends in the podcasting industry, including Spotify’s impact on podcast publishing and the handling of video content on the platform. They explore the technical and strategic challenges of adapting to platforms like Spotify that prioritize video, discussing potential impacts on audio content and advertising revenue.

The conversation shifts to lighter topics, including humorous anecdotes and personal experiences, maintaining a dynamic and engaging discourse. They touch on industry events, future predictions about video content, and the sustainability of heavy investments in video by big companies which might lead to layoffs if these investments do not return profits.

Throughout the episode, Todd and Rob maintain a critical and insightful dialogue on the evolving landscape of podcasting and video content, providing listeners with a deep dive into technical challenges, platform dynamics, and industry shifts. They wrap up the episode discussing their own experiences and plans with their podcasting endeavors and reflect on the broader implications of recent industry developments for independent creators and big platforms alike.

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Is Dave Winer intentionally ignoring the advancements of RSS that the Podcasting 2.0 initiative has been undertaking? I contend he has.  In this episode of the podcast, hosts Todd Cochrane and Rob Greenlee engage in a varied discussion that starts with a casual conversation about Thanksgiving experiences and quickly dives into deeper issues regarding the current state and future of podcasting. The conversation is sparked by a statement from Dave Winer about the evolving use of the term “podcast,” particularly how it’s being co-opted by video content on platforms like YouTube. Winer suggests that enhancing the open podcast platform is crucial to preserving the creative essence of podcasting.

Todd and Rob discuss their concerns about the dilution of the podcast identity, emphasizing their efforts through “Podcasting 2.0” to innovate on RSS feeds, which they feel Winer underappreciates. They express frustration over Winer’s lack of engagement and his focus on past achievements.

Todd explains why he has stopped using Cloud Wowza for live HLS video due to cost inefficiency, directing viewers instead to individual platforms.

A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the changes and strategies in platforms like Spotify and YouTube, particularly how these platforms are influencing podcast formats and the importance of maintaining audio podcast integrity alongside video offerings. They criticize the industry’s heavy monetization tactics, often leading to overloaded ad placements that could alienate listeners.

Todd and Rob also explore broader trends in content consumption and platform loyalty and how podcasters can strategically navigate these changes to protect their content and audience engagement. They reflect on the need for podcasters to educate themselves on new technologies and innovations to keep up with the evolving media landscape.

Throughout the episode, the hosts maintain a light-hearted yet pointed critique of various players in the podcasting industry, including platform giants and even the pioneers who seem resistant to new changes. The episode ends with a call to podcasters to be adaptable, proactive, and mindful of their content’s integrity and strategic choices in a rapidly shifting digital environment.

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In this episode of the podcast “Podcasting is the Media,” hosts Todd Cochrane and Rob Greenlee explore significant changes and developments within the podcasting industry. Todd Cochrane starts the conversation by reflecting on the broad perspective that podcasting and online media have become synonymous with mainstream media. Rob mentions specific shifts, like Comcast’s move away from mainstream cable channels due to declining audiences.

Rob Greenlee expands on the idea, discussing the role of video in podcasting and how major platforms have influenced the industry’s evolution. He talks about the derogatory treatment of video podcasting by more giant platforms like Spotify and the industry’s potential mistakes in handling video content. The discussion shifts to technical aspects of podcast video delivery and the economic factors that host platforms must consider.

Further into the episode, Todd highlights Apple’s responsiveness and innovation regarding podcasts, hinting at upcoming features that could benefit podcast creators. The conversation turns to the complexities introduced by platforms like Spotify.

The hosts also touch upon censorship and content management issues on various platforms, and Todd shares insights into some podcasts facing challenges with Spotify over content rights and licensing. They delve into the broader implications of how platforms manage user content and the potential barriers that proprietary platforms can establish, which may affect the open nature of podcasting typically enabled by RSS feeds.

The conversation takes a broader turn as they discuss the transitions from broadcasting to podcasting, referencing significant shifts seen within industries as mainstream media figures move to independent podcasting ventures. This leads to a discussion about ‘new media’ and whether traditional platforms like radio and cable are still relevant compared to the rapidly evolving podcast space.

Toward the end of the episode, Rob reflects on the potential future of podcasting, suggesting that it might increasingly blend with general online content creation rather than be a standalone format. This leads to their final thoughts on the importance of maintaining an open platform for podcasting, contrasting it with more closed ecosystems like YouTube or proprietary streaming services, where creators have less control.

This episode provides a comprehensive overview of the podcast industry’s current state and challenges, particularly focusing on the impact of technological changes, platform policies, and the shift toward more controlled content environments. The hosts emphasize the importance of maintaining the open, innovative spirit of podcasting amidst these developments.

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