Hosts Todd Cochrane and Rob Greenlee are joined by guest Adam Curry. The session delves deeply into the current state, history, and future of podcasting.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: Spotify | RSS | More

Podcast (audio): Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: RSS | More

The episode starts with introductions and a quick exchange of pleasantries among Todd, Rob, and Adam. Todd and Rob tease some of the topics they plan to discuss, focusing on the past, present, and future of podcasting.

Adam Curry shares insights from his extensive experience in the podcasting industry. He invokes discussions about pioneering podcasting platforms and the invention of pivotal technologies like RSS and podcast monetization through advertisements. He highlights how key developments, like the first advertisers on podcasts, helped shape the industry’s growth trajectory.

Several topics are passionately discussed throughout the episode, including:
– The technological evolution within podcasting is emphasized by tools that have democratized and streamlined the podcast production process.
– The rise of podcast networks and their role in shaping the podcast landscape.
– Experiences with large podcasting companies and the push towards platform independence.
– Concerns about platform monopolies and supporting open RSS feeds and podcast index initiatives.
-Adam’s “No Agenda” podcast explains their unique “value-for-value” model, in which listeners contribute directly in various forms.
– Challenges and merits of producing live shows versus edited podcasts.
– Opportunities in local, niche podcasting content and the overarching need for podcasts to foster community around geographical or topic-based interests.

Throughout the episode, Adam, Todd, and Rob also reflect on hiccups the podcasting industry has faced or may confront in the future. They discuss potential improvements in content recommendation systems within podcast apps, aiming for a more tailored listener experience.

The conversation also veers into broader discussions about AI’s impact on content creation, concerns around AI-generated content overtaking human creativity, and misrepresentations or biases it might introduce.

In closing, Adam Curry emphasizes the importance of podcasters enabling modern podcasting tools to maintain control over their content amidst the evolving digital landscape. He calls for a continued push towards innovation, independence, and authenticity in podcasting.

The podcast episode provides deep insights into the technical, cultural, and business dynamics of podcasting, underpinned by Adam’s rich history and pioneering work in the field.

Welcome to Episode 600 – In this podcast episode, hosts Todd Cochrane and Rob Greenlee delve into the intricacies and motivations behind the push towards video podcasting, shedding light on various factors, especially the influence of ad revenue.

The episode opens with casual banter before Todd shares intriguing details from a recent undisclosed meeting concerning privacy solutions for podcast listeners. This topic pivots to broader privacy concerns in the industry. Rob agrees, noting the advertising sector’s keen interest in privacy or the lack thereof. This segues into their main discussion about the industry’s relentless pursuit of profit, mainly through video podcasting.

Todd and Rob discuss James Cridland’s critique of the monetary motivations driving platforms like Google and Spotify towards video podcasting. They elaborate on the expected increase in global ad revenue from Spotify’s shift to video podcasts and the purported effectiveness of combining audio and video ads versus audio alone.

The hosts then explore a significant company restructuring within the podcast hosting sphere, maintaining discretion on specifics. Concurrently, they mention changes within the Podcast Hall of Fame, aiming for more openness and community involvement.

Additionally, the episode covers some technical and policy shifts in podcasting, including various platforms’ compliance with the latest IAB Podcast Measurement Guidelines.

The discussion digs deeper into how platforms might exploit creator content without fair compensation, sparking a broader examination of the relationships between podcasters, platforms, and advertisers. A critical take on the podcasting industry’s direction contrasts the original ethos of podcasting with current trends dominated by commercial interests.

Towards the episode’s conclusion, the hosts highlight the looming influence of large corporations in determining the trajectory of podcast content and distribution.

Overall, this episode heavily critiques the commercialization of podcasting, particularly the push for video podcasting driven by advertising revenue, while advocating for greater privacy and fairness for creators within the podcasting ecosystem.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: Spotify | RSS | More

Podcast (audio): Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: RSS | More

In this episode of the podcast, hosts Todd Cochrane and Rob Greenlee discuss various aspects of podcasting, technology, and media content creation.

The episode begins with a casual conversation about the updates and adjustments in their set-ups, including technology upgrades by Todd, such as a new Apple Studio and microphone stand. Rob responds to these updates, considering the implications for their show quality and viewer experience.

The hosts then shift to the core topic, “The Ugly Baby Discussion in Podcasting,” which metaphorically describes issues within the podcasting industry, particularly how content creators perceive their work versus external perceptions. Todd sets the stage by listing numerous factors that could impact podcast success, including content relevance, marketing strategies, audience engagement, distribution methods, and technical issues. He emphasizes having realistic objectives for podcast growth and maintaining quality content.

Rob introduces the concept of podcasters’ overestimation of their content quality, inspired by the analogy of “the ugly baby.” They explore the difficulty of having honest conversations with podcasters about their show’s quality or lack thereof. This segues into a broader discussion on the complexities of podcast production, exemplified by successful, multi-person productions compared to typical individual or smaller team productions.

The conversation then delves deeper into the practical and technical adaptive strategies successful podcasters can employ. Todd reminisces about advice from his grandmother, which equates appreciating one’s content with being ready to improve where necessary. Rob adds to this by discussing the importance of perspective in gauging podcast success and how podcasters need to assess their audience size and engagement realistically.

Rob and Todd also discuss the challenges and implications of relying primarily on more giant platforms like Spotify and Apple for podcast distribution and visibility. They debate the merits and downsides of exclusivity vs. broad distribution, with Todd advocating for a diversified approach to avoid dependence on single platforms.

The hosts then discuss broader industry tactics, including adapting to listeners’ feedback, understanding the competitive landscape, and handling transitions in technology and listener behavior. They stress the need for agility in content creation and marketing.

Towards the end, they consider adapting content and strategy as the digital landscape evolves, ensuring relevance and engagement are maintained. The episode closes with a broader reflection on the state of the podcast industry, the roles of major platforms, and a call for podcast creators to critically assess and adapt their strategies for sustained success.

Throughout the episode, the hosts maintain a light-hearted yet informative tone, interspersed with personal anecdotes and professional insights, making for an engaging discussion on the complexities and evolving nature of podcasting.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: Spotify | RSS | More

Podcast (audio): Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: RSS | More

In this episode of the podcast, hosts Todd Cochrane and Rob Greenlee thoroughly examine and discuss the recent Podcast Movement event in Washington, DC. They share their perspectives on how the event has transformed over time, suggesting it felt different from past events—likening it more to an industry-focused event rather than one focused on podcast creators.

Todd starts the conversation by discussing his experience as an exhibitor, noting a significant drop in engaging with new podcast creators, which seemed poorly represented at the event. This underrepresentation led him to speculate on possible reasons, such as scheduling during weekdays and the high costs associated with attending. Furthermore, Todd points out the logistical issues of the event, such as overly wide aisles that hindered interaction between exhibitors and attendees and the lack of carpeting, which made the venue uncomfortable for standing.

Rob contrasts previous Podcast Movements by sharing his observations on the placement of presentation stages directly on the exhibition floor, although beneficial for hearing presentations. He reflects on the broader implications of these changes on the podcast industry, suggesting that podcasting is undergoing a phase of professionalization and a shift away from independent creation due to economic pressures and a changing landscape prioritizing larger shows and networks.

Both hosts expressed concerns over the evolution of podcast events, which are leaning towards being more corporate. They emphasized exclusive company areas restricted to select attendees, which contradicts the inclusive and community-focused ethos traditionally associated with podcasting.

Towards the end of the episode, Todd and Rob shift the conversation towards possible solutions and broader industry trends. They discuss the need for a “Got Milk?”-style promotional campaign for podcasting to emphasize the value of audio content in an increasingly video-dominated market. Todd suggests that there needs to be a collective effort from successful figures in the podcasting community to advocate for the medium.

The episode wraps up with the hosts reflecting on the ramifications of the event trends they’ve discussed, pondering the future of the Podcast Movement and similar conventions, and advocating for a return to more creator-focused, accessible, and community-centric values in podcast events.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: Spotify | RSS | More

Podcast (audio): Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: RSS | More

In this episode of “Todd and Rob is Back in the Afternoon,” Todd Cochrane and Rob Greenlee embark on a wide-ranging discussion starting with Todd’s newly rebuilt studio. Todd details his extensive weekend efforts in wiring and cleaning up his new studio space, which visually appears like the old studio despite the new location. Rob empathizes with Todd, sharing his experiences with surplus cables and studio equipment.

The conversation then turns technical as Todd explains his complex internet setup, utilizing Starlink and a point-to-point connection due to his rural location’s limitations concerning broadband access. Much of the discussion underscores the challenges and high costs associated with improving rural broadband connectivity, highlighting Todd’s interactions with service providers and the government’s role in funding rural broadband.

Attention then shifts to a critical discussion of recent developments with Patreon and Apple’s App Store fees, analyzing the impact on creators and potential workarounds. Alongside this, they critique the broader media industry’s drive towards direct uploads and data analytics in podcasting, expressing concerns about possible negative impacts on the open nature of podcasting.

Todd and Rob also delve into podcasting standards, like RSS, fearing that a move away could diminish podcasters’ control over distribution. They stress the importance of maintaining podcasting as an independent and open platform that is resistant to dominance by large proprietary platforms.

Furthermore, the duo discusses the implications of the Global Alliance for Responsible Media (GARM) dissolution, the underlying platform NewsGuard, and its impact on podcast content filtering. Their conversation reveals skepticism towards these platforms’ intentions and benefits, urging podcasters to be vigilant about where and how their content is managed.

Closing the episode, Todd and Rob cover various other significant industry topics, including platform-specific issues, user experiences across podcast services, and emerging tools purportedly evaluating podcast audio quality.

This episode thoroughly examines podcasting logistics, the balance between innovation and maintaining traditional standards, and the ongoing debate over content management and platform control in the increasingly complex podcast industry landscape.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: Spotify | RSS | More

Podcast (audio): Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: RSS | More

In this episode of the podcast, hosts Todd Cochrane and Rob Greenlee discuss a range of topics with guest Chris Krimitsos, focusing mainly on the growth and expansion of Podfest both domestically and internationally. They open by catching up on personal updates, including Todd’s move back to Michigan and setting up his new studio.

Chris Krimitsos joins the conversation to discuss recent developments at Podfest, including the introduction of new managing directors to help expand the event. He highlights the introduction of international versions of Podfest, such as in Bogota, Colombia, and reflects on the inaugural Podfest Asia in Manila. Chris elaborates on how these expansions help build a global podcasting community and foster worldwide networking and collaboration among creators.

The discussion shifts to logistical challenges, including an incident where the venue hotel closed down unexpectedly, leading to a hasty relocation. This segment opens up a broader conversation about organizing large-scale events’ unpredictability and dynamic nature.

Continuing, Chris shares insights into how adding new managerial roles at Podfest has alleviated some of his workload, allowing him to focus more on community building and strategic partnerships. He talks about the benefits of having additional hands on deck for handling operational tasks and expanding the reach and influence of Podfest through various international ventures.

Towards the end of their conversation, they touch on other topics, such as changes in other businesses related to podcasting, like traditional radio broadcasting, the evolution of podcast content globally, and the cultural specifics of podcasting in different countries. Chris, Todd, and Rob also discuss the importance of sustenance and growth in the podcasting industry, the challenges posed by external business pressures, and the roles of different companies in the evolving podcast market.

The episode wraps up by looking forward to Podfest events and expressing enthusiasm for continued engagement and innovation in the podcasting community, both in the U.S. and abroad.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: Spotify | RSS | More

Podcast (audio): Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: RSS | More

During this episode, hosts Todd Cochrane and Rob Greenlee, alongside guest Dave Jackson, engage in a comprehensive discussion centered on Dave’s new role at PodPage, the significance of having your podcast website, and the changing landscapes of podcast advertising and revenue streams.

The conversation commences with casual banter about recent personal updates, including Todd’s relocation and studio plans. Dave then elaborates on his recent transition from Libsyn to PodPage, highlighting his focus on providing personalized coaching to podcasters and his enthusiasm for his new role due to his alignment with PodPage’s goals and services.

Rob and Dave delve deep into the value of podcast websites, comparing the simplicity and SEO benefits of having your website for your podcast. Dave stresses how PodPage caters to podcasters who seek an easy setup without the complexities of managing their websites. Todd emphasizes the significance of owning a domain for direct listener access, especially in a potentially fluctuating SEO environment affected by how AI-driven search results are displayed.

The conversation shifts toward monetization and the evolving dynamics of podcast advertising. They discuss the potential saturation in ad markets and how platforms handle advertisements and sponsorships. They broach more technical and future-gazing topics, such as the decentralization of monetization through blockchain and crypto methods involving platforms like True Fans.

Finally, they explore the maintenance of robust direct listener relationships through value-for-value models, where podcasters can receive compensation directly from listeners through donations or other means as compensation for the value they deliver.

The episode wraps up with thoughts on managing and evolving podcast content for better monetization and audience engagement, emphasizing the balance between content quality and effective monetization strategies. The hosts and guests also field listener questions, providing insights and advice applicable to novice and seasoned podcasters.

Podcast (audio): Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: RSS | More

In this episode, hosts Todd Cochrane and Rob Greenlee engage in a detailed discussion with Dan Franks, co-founder of Podcast Movement. Dan is the featured guest, discussing the upcoming Podcast Movement event in Washington, D.C.

The episode begins with what’s new for Podcast Movement, Dan, who delves into the preparations and expectations for the nearing Podcast Movement event, emphasizing the event’s logistical and content planning stages. Dan highlights the gathering’s evolution, noting the diverse set of attendees and tailored content that caters to varying interests within the podcast community. He mentions crucial logistical adjustments and promotional strategies to enhance the attendee experience.

A significant portion of their conversation explores how the event’s location in Washington, D.C., influences the types of attendees and what they might expect regarding keynote speakers and sessions, especially the ones involving NPR. Dan also details an uptick in governmental attendees.

The talk transitions into broader discussion topics within the podcast industry, including the impact of AI technologies on podcast production and ethical considerations surrounding AI-generated content. The hosts explore potential implications of AI integration, from content creation to legal challenges regarding copyright issues and disclosure.

Toward the end of the episode, discussions briefly cover Podcast Movement’s role in facilitating educational opportunities through its event programming and ‘Braindates,’ sessions designed for focused peer learning among attendees. Dan concludes with remarks on Podcast Movement’s continuous growth, its role in the podcasting ecosystem, and the event’s future.

Finally, Todd and Rob summarize the discussion, reflecting on Dan Franks’ comprehensive insights about the upcoming Podcast Movement and its significance to the podcast community at large.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: Spotify | RSS | More

Podcast (audio): Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: RSS | More

In this podcast episode, hosts Todd Cochrane and Rob Greenlee discuss various topics related to the future of podcasting and the use of new technologies in the field. The episode begins with casual banter about their current setups and upcoming changes in their recording schedules. They also delve into their anticipation for the forthcoming Podcast Movement event, noting that they have scheduled an interview with Dan Franks to discuss further details.

The discussion transitions into updates about the podcasting app Overcast. Todd and Rob commend the app’s developer, Marco Arment, for his updates on the app’s tenth anniversary, highlighting the improved user interface and accessibility. They express their admiration for Marco sustaining the app as a solo operation over the years.

Rob and Todd also touch upon the value4value model and podcasting 2.0 features, discussing podcasters’ challenges and future potentials, especially concerning monetary contributions and audience engagement through technology like cryptocurrency. They ponder the implications of recent disruptions in crypto services and emphasize the importance of ensuring all participants in the podcast value chain benefit.

The conversation shifts to the podcasting industry’s broader trends and possible future trajectories. They discuss artificial intelligence’s role in content creation and analytics, which could significantly impact how podcasts are produced and consumed. Moreover, they delve into concerns about AI, such as ethical considerations and the importance of transparency in content creation influenced by AI.

Todd and Rob also review the implications of certain podcasting practices and technologies on user privacy and content authenticity. They highlight the importance of maintaining open communication channels free from excessive regulation and underscore the value of straightforward, honest podcasting practices.

The episode wraps up with further insights into upcoming changes in their podcast schedules and a reaffirmation of their commitment to discussing vital topics within the podcasting community. Throughout the episode, Todd and Rob blend industry-specific analysis with lighter, more personable commentary, offering depth and accessibility to their listener discussions.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: Spotify | RSS | More

Podcast (audio): Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: RSS | More

In this episode of Todd and Rob’s podcast, the conversation primarily revolves around whether the podcast industry has reached its peak or not. Rob Greenlee starts by reflecting on recent research indicating a slowdown in podcast growth, suggesting that the medium might be reaching a maturation phase in the U.S. He points out high awareness and listenership percentages and questions whether these signify a plateau in growth. Todd Cochrane joins in, proposing that the current state still represents a golden era for creators despite fewer new shows emerging due to economic reasons and a previous hype around video podcasting.

Both hosts discuss challenges new creators face in carving out their niche in an increasingly saturated market, though Todd remains optimistic about audience growth for podcasts. Rob adds that successful podcasting now requires higher levels of skill and savviness, given the complexity of media creation and the competitive landscape.

As the podcast progresses, the dialogue shifts toward advertising revenues in the podcast space. Rob notes the stagnation at around $2 billion and considers whether external factors such as economic downturns might affect growth predictors. However, both note the enduring appeal of podcasting despite economic or market shifts, emphasizing content quality as a crucial factor for success.

Throughout the episode, Todd highlights the potential for audience growth and creator success remains significant, provided the content is engaging and high quality.

The hosts also delve into the effects of new technologies and platforms on broadcasting and podcasting, citing their own experiences and changes they’ve witnessed in the tools and platforms used for podcasting.

Towards the closing segments, they briefly touch upon Todd’s personal experiences and activities outside podcasting, maintaining a light, conversational tone that intertwines personal anecdotes with industry insights.

Overall, the episode thoroughly explores the notion of “peak podcasting,” with Todd and Rob dissecting industry trends, technological impacts, and future potential, engaging in a rich discussion that balances statistics with personal industry experiences.

Podcast (audio): Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: RSS | More