March 23, 2025 • 12 mins
In this episode of The Podcast Weekly Brief, Michelle kicks off with an introduction and a rundown of the top stories in the podcasting world. The episode explores Google's NotebookLM, focusing on its features, usage, and the broader impact of AI on podcasting. Michelle discusses J.J. Lee's workshops aimed at bringing seniors into the podcasting fold and their wider implications. The potential of TikTok as a platform for business-to-business podcast revenue is examined, alongside insights from Tom Mahon on leveraging podcasting for businesses. The conversation also delves into the growth of podcasting within the franchising sector. The episode concludes with final thoughts, closing remarks, and a subscription reminder.
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
(00:00):
Welcome back to the Podcast Daily Brief, yourgo-to update on the latest trends, tools, and
(00:05):
insights in the podcasting world.
I’m your host, AI Michelle, and this is aMagicPod, produced by PodcastAI.
Here are our top stories today…
Google’s NotebookLM is transforming documentsinto AI-driven conversations and podcasts with
a touch of magic.
(00:27):
Why is this Vancouver author giving seniorspodcasting workshops?
Data reveals the 20 highest earningbusiness-to-business podcasts on TikTok in
2025.
And finally, the rise of podcasting infranchising is making waves.
Let's dive into our first story.
Google's NotebookLM is revolutionizing how weinteract with information, transforming
(00:51):
documents into dynamic, AI-poweredconversations and podcasts with ease.
This innovative tool allows users to turn theirdocuments into natural-sounding conversations,
offering a seamless way to absorb and interactwith information.
It’s as simple as opening Chrome, typing"Google NotebookLM" in the address bar, and
(01:11):
signing in with your Google account.
Even the free version is quite powerful, thoughthere are paid options for those needing more
storage or advanced features.
The interface is straightforward (01:22):
you tap a plus sign to start a new notebook and begin
adding your sources of data.
NotebookLM doesn’t fetch information from theinternet but relies on what you provide.
You can add up to 50 items with the freeversion or up to 300 with the paid Plus
version.
These sources can be documents, slides, PDFs,written notes, audio and video files, or even
(01:47):
YouTube videos.
Once your sources are in, the magic begins inthe Chat and Studio areas.
Users can request briefings, timelines, studyguides, quizzes, or frequently asked questions.
The tool not only reads but understands theinformation, offering insightful material and
ideas rather than simply regurgitating data.
(02:09):
You can even generate an audio overview or afull podcast-style conversation, allowing the
AI voices to narrate key points and insightsfrom your selected sources.
One of the experimental features lets usersinteract with the AI voices, requesting
explanations in simpler terms or focusing onspecific topics.
(02:30):
There’s even a customisation box to guide howthe conversation unfolds.
Users have reported creative applications, fromsummarizing documents for quick reference to
creating personalized study guides for travelor language learning.
Some have used it for journaling, allowing theAI to surface insights from behavior and
activity patterns.
(02:52):
In professional settings, NotebookLM aids increating marketing materials, training sales
teams, and developing onboarding guides.
When combined with third-party apps or externaldata, its use cases expand significantly.
The educational potential is vast, helpingsynthesize information across multiple sources
(03:13):
and offering a comprehensive understanding of atopic.
The advent of Large Language Models andincreased computing power has made such
advancements in AI possible, bringing toolslike NotebookLM into practical use.
It's a significant shift from AI being a meregimmick to a powerful tool for everyday use.
(03:34):
This is just the beginning, and as Googlecontinues to develop NotebookLM, more exciting
features and applications are sure to emerge.
Today, we're spotlighting a heartwarminginitiative by J.J.
Lee, a Vancouver-based writer and fashioncolumnist, who's embarked on a mission to
empower seniors through the art of podcasting.
(03:57):
Recognizing that many seniors face challengeswith technology, Lee has launched a series of
workshops aimed at bridging that gap andoffering a creative outlet for older adults.
Held at the West Vancouver Library, theseworkshops provide seniors with the tools and
confidence they need to explore the world ofpodcasting.
Elizabeth Dunbar, one of the participants,shared her experience, noting that the
(04:21):
workshops have allowed her to knit togethervarious skills she has developed over the
decades, giving her a sense of fulfillment andpurpose.
J.J.
Lee's workshops are more than just technicaltraining sessions.
They are spaces where seniors can share theirstories, connect with others, and find new ways
to express themselves.
The sessions cover everything from the basicsof recording and editing audio to crafting
(04:45):
compelling narratives and sharing theirfinished podcasts online.
For many seniors, the workshops are a chance toovercome the intimidation they feel around new
technologies.
By demystifying the podcasting process, Lee ishelping to break down barriers and show that
it's never too late to learn something new orto venture into the digital realm.
(05:07):
This initiative is part of a broader trend ofusing technology to enhance the lives of older
adults, providing them with opportunities toengage with the world in new and meaningful
ways.
As podcasting continues to grow in popularity,initiatives like Lee’s are vital in ensuring
that everyone, regardless of age, canparticipate in this vibrant medium.
(05:30):
In a fascinating revelation from London Filmed,a new study highlights the significant revenue
potential for business-to-business podcastersutilizing TikTok.
The platform, often overlooked forbusiness-to-business marketing, is proving to
be a goldmine for podcasters.
With over one billion active global users,TikTok is one of the fastest-growing social
(05:54):
media platforms, offering a valuableopportunity for reaching audiences, whether
business-to-consumer or business-to-business.
According to the study, business-to-businesspodcasters promoting their content on TikTok
could earn an estimated three thousand poundsin additional revenue.
By sharing engaging, bite-sized snippets ofpodcast episodes, hosts can repackage long-form
(06:18):
content into highly consumable formats.
This strategy not only attracts new listenersbut also reinforces a brand's expertise in its
industry.
The analysis conducted by London Filmed, usingdata from social media analytics platform UpDog
and earnings estimates from eMarketer, examinedthirty business-focused podcasts.
(06:40):
The findings suggest that posting podcastsnippets on TikTok could add thousands to the
value of these shows.
The study was inspired by statistics showingthat forty percent of business leaders listen
to podcasts for business-to-business content,keeping them informed of industry trends.
Notably, businesses with podcasts report aneighty-nine percent increase in brand awareness
(07:03):
and a twenty-five percent higher brandfavorability, according to data from Lower
Street.
The highest-earning business-to-businesspodcast of 2024, 'A Bit of Optimism' hosted by
Simon Sinek, earns an estimated three thousandtwenty-three pounds per TikTok post.
Meanwhile, Steven Bartlett's 'Diary of a CEO'is valued at a maximum of one thousand fifty
(07:28):
pounds per post.
Tom Mahon, Co-Founder of London Filmed,commented on the study, emphasizing that
podcasting is a powerful and profitable mediumfor cultivating deeply engaged communities.
He noted that advertisers see higher conversionrates with podcast audiences compared to those
on social media, making it a strategic channelfor businesses.
(07:50):
Mahon highlighted that while TikTok is nottraditionally seen as a business-centric
platform, its potential is undeniable whenleveraged effectively.
As platforms like TikTok continue to expand,the prominence of video podcast content is
expected to grow, solidifying its role in thefuture of digital media.
(08:11):
Data on average likes and estimated engagementrates were sourced from UpDog, while estimated
earnings were based on eMarketer'svalue-per-post data, multiplied by the
estimated total videos published by eachaccount.
Our final story today explores the growingtrend of podcasting within the franchising
industry, a development that's catching theattention of franchisors, franchisees,
(08:35):
suppliers, and brokers alike.
Despite some skepticism about whetherpodcasting has reached its peak, the truth is
that the medium is still evolving, and itspotential for the franchising sector remains
largely untapped.
Podcasting offers a unique, personal, andlong-form way to connect with audiences, build
(08:56):
trust, and establish authority, which is why itis becoming an invaluable tool for franchise
businesses.
Unlike traditional advertising methods,podcasts can bring brand awareness and serve as
an engaging communication channel without thedirect pressure of generating leads.
For franchisors, podcasts are a powerful way toshare success stories and provide valuable
(09:19):
insights to potential candidates.
By featuring conversations with franchisees,these audio episodes can act as a validation
call, allowing prospects to hear firsthandabout the experiences and successes within the
franchise network at any time, day or night.
Franchisees can also benefit by using podcaststo build local influence and establish
(09:42):
themselves as experts in their communities.
Whether it's becoming the go-to lawn expert inWest Des Moines or the renowned pizza guy in
Chattanooga, podcasts offer a cost-effectiveway for small business owners to reach their
local audience.
Suppliers, too, are finding value inpodcasting.
While the goal may not be lead generation,podcasts provide a platform for brand
(10:06):
awareness, allowing the right audience todiscover and engage with their services.
The key is understanding that the impact isn'timmediate but can be significant over time.
The rise of branded podcasts within franchisingis notable, with brands like Sport Clips, The
Joint Chiropractic, and Huntington LearningCenters leading the way.
(10:28):
A recent survey found that 61 percent oflisteners to branded podcasts reported a more
favorable view of the brand, demonstrating thepotential for a positive halo effect.
Interestingly, audio-only podcasts areparticularly effective at reaching busy
entrepreneurs and even Gen Z audiences, whoprefer this format over video.
(10:51):
The flexibility of audio allows listeners toengage with content while on the go, making it
an ideal medium for today's fast-pacedlifestyle.
To launch a successful franchise podcast,consistency and commitment are key.
Many podcasts start strong but fade quickly dueto busy schedules and unclear return on
investment.
(11:12):
A long-term plan with a commitment to regularepisodes is essential, focusing on engaging
content that keeps listeners coming back.
Keep episodes concise, ideally between 10 to 20minutes, to maintain listener interest without
overwhelming them.
And remember, it's crucial to have a clearfocus and stay true to your unique strengths
(11:33):
within the franchising space.
So, as we continue to embrace this golden ageof podcasting, franchises that leverage this
medium will find themselves ahead of the curve,connecting with audiences in ways that are both
innovative and impactful.
That wraps up today’s update on Podcast DailyBrief.
If you enjoyed staying informed on the latesttrends and developments in the podcasting
(11:57):
world, be sure to subscribe or follow so younever miss an episode.
Stay connected with the world of podcasting!
Welcome back to the Podcast Daily Brief, yourgo-to update on the latest trends, tools, and
(00:05):
insights in the podcasting world.
I’m your host, AI Michelle, and this is aMagicPod, produced by PodcastAI.
Here are our top stories today…
Google’s NotebookLM is transforming documentsinto AI-driven conversations and podcasts with
a touch of magic.
(00:27):
Why is this Vancouver author giving seniorspodcasting workshops?
Data reveals the 20 highest earningbusiness-to-business podcasts on TikTok in
2025.
And finally, the rise of podcasting infranchising is making waves.
Let's dive into our first story.
Google's NotebookLM is revolutionizing how weinteract with information, transforming
(00:51):
documents into dynamic, AI-poweredconversations and podcasts with ease.
This innovative tool allows users to turn theirdocuments into natural-sounding conversations,
offering a seamless way to absorb and interactwith information.
It’s as simple as opening Chrome, typing"Google NotebookLM" in the address bar, and
(01:11):
signing in with your Google account.
Even the free version is quite powerful, thoughthere are paid options for those needing more
storage or advanced features.
The interface is straightforward (01:22):
you tap a plus sign to start a new notebook and begin
adding your sources of data.
NotebookLM doesn’t fetch information from theinternet but relies on what you provide.
You can add up to 50 items with the freeversion or up to 300 with the paid Plus
version.
These sources can be documents, slides, PDFs,written notes, audio and video files, or even
(01:47):
YouTube videos.
Once your sources are in, the magic begins inthe Chat and Studio areas.
Users can request briefings, timelines, studyguides, quizzes, or frequently asked questions.
The tool not only reads but understands theinformation, offering insightful material and
ideas rather than simply regurgitating data.
(02:09):
You can even generate an audio overview or afull podcast-style conversation, allowing the
AI voices to narrate key points and insightsfrom your selected sources.
One of the experimental features lets usersinteract with the AI voices, requesting
explanations in simpler terms or focusing onspecific topics.
(02:30):
There’s even a customisation box to guide howthe conversation unfolds.
Users have reported creative applications, fromsummarizing documents for quick reference to
creating personalized study guides for travelor language learning.
Some have used it for journaling, allowing theAI to surface insights from behavior and
activity patterns.
(02:52):
In professional settings, NotebookLM aids increating marketing materials, training sales
teams, and developing onboarding guides.
When combined with third-party apps or externaldata, its use cases expand significantly.
The educational potential is vast, helpingsynthesize information across multiple sources
(03:13):
and offering a comprehensive understanding of atopic.
The advent of Large Language Models andincreased computing power has made such
advancements in AI possible, bringing toolslike NotebookLM into practical use.
It's a significant shift from AI being a meregimmick to a powerful tool for everyday use.
(03:34):
This is just the beginning, and as Googlecontinues to develop NotebookLM, more exciting
features and applications are sure to emerge.
Today, we're spotlighting a heartwarminginitiative by J.J.
Lee, a Vancouver-based writer and fashioncolumnist, who's embarked on a mission to
empower seniors through the art of podcasting.
(03:57):
Recognizing that many seniors face challengeswith technology, Lee has launched a series of
workshops aimed at bridging that gap andoffering a creative outlet for older adults.
Held at the West Vancouver Library, theseworkshops provide seniors with the tools and
confidence they need to explore the world ofpodcasting.
Elizabeth Dunbar, one of the participants,shared her experience, noting that the
(04:21):
workshops have allowed her to knit togethervarious skills she has developed over the
decades, giving her a sense of fulfillment andpurpose.
J.J.
Lee's workshops are more than just technicaltraining sessions.
They are spaces where seniors can share theirstories, connect with others, and find new ways
to express themselves.
The sessions cover everything from the basicsof recording and editing audio to crafting
(04:45):
compelling narratives and sharing theirfinished podcasts online.
For many seniors, the workshops are a chance toovercome the intimidation they feel around new
technologies.
By demystifying the podcasting process, Lee ishelping to break down barriers and show that
it's never too late to learn something new orto venture into the digital realm.
(05:07):
This initiative is part of a broader trend ofusing technology to enhance the lives of older
adults, providing them with opportunities toengage with the world in new and meaningful
ways.
As podcasting continues to grow in popularity,initiatives like Lee’s are vital in ensuring
that everyone, regardless of age, canparticipate in this vibrant medium.
(05:30):
In a fascinating revelation from London Filmed,a new study highlights the significant revenue
potential for business-to-business podcastersutilizing TikTok.
The platform, often overlooked forbusiness-to-business marketing, is proving to
be a goldmine for podcasters.
With over one billion active global users,TikTok is one of the fastest-growing social
(05:54):
media platforms, offering a valuableopportunity for reaching audiences, whether
business-to-consumer or business-to-business.
According to the study, business-to-businesspodcasters promoting their content on TikTok
could earn an estimated three thousand poundsin additional revenue.
By sharing engaging, bite-sized snippets ofpodcast episodes, hosts can repackage long-form
(06:18):
content into highly consumable formats.
This strategy not only attracts new listenersbut also reinforces a brand's expertise in its
industry.
The analysis conducted by London Filmed, usingdata from social media analytics platform UpDog
and earnings estimates from eMarketer, examinedthirty business-focused podcasts.
(06:40):
The findings suggest that posting podcastsnippets on TikTok could add thousands to the
value of these shows.
The study was inspired by statistics showingthat forty percent of business leaders listen
to podcasts for business-to-business content,keeping them informed of industry trends.
Notably, businesses with podcasts report aneighty-nine percent increase in brand awareness
(07:03):
and a twenty-five percent higher brandfavorability, according to data from Lower
Street.
The highest-earning business-to-businesspodcast of 2024, 'A Bit of Optimism' hosted by
Simon Sinek, earns an estimated three thousandtwenty-three pounds per TikTok post.
Meanwhile, Steven Bartlett's 'Diary of a CEO'is valued at a maximum of one thousand fifty
(07:28):
pounds per post.
Tom Mahon, Co-Founder of London Filmed,commented on the study, emphasizing that
podcasting is a powerful and profitable mediumfor cultivating deeply engaged communities.
He noted that advertisers see higher conversionrates with podcast audiences compared to those
on social media, making it a strategic channelfor businesses.
(07:50):
Mahon highlighted that while TikTok is nottraditionally seen as a business-centric
platform, its potential is undeniable whenleveraged effectively.
As platforms like TikTok continue to expand,the prominence of video podcast content is
expected to grow, solidifying its role in thefuture of digital media.
(08:11):
Data on average likes and estimated engagementrates were sourced from UpDog, while estimated
earnings were based on eMarketer'svalue-per-post data, multiplied by the
estimated total videos published by eachaccount.
Our final story today explores the growingtrend of podcasting within the franchising
industry, a development that's catching theattention of franchisors, franchisees,
(08:35):
suppliers, and brokers alike.
Despite some skepticism about whetherpodcasting has reached its peak, the truth is
that the medium is still evolving, and itspotential for the franchising sector remains
largely untapped.
Podcasting offers a unique, personal, andlong-form way to connect with audiences, build
(08:56):
trust, and establish authority, which is why itis becoming an invaluable tool for franchise
businesses.
Unlike traditional advertising methods,podcasts can bring brand awareness and serve as
an engaging communication channel without thedirect pressure of generating leads.
For franchisors, podcasts are a powerful way toshare success stories and provide valuable
(09:19):
insights to potential candidates.
By featuring conversations with franchisees,these audio episodes can act as a validation
call, allowing prospects to hear firsthandabout the experiences and successes within the
franchise network at any time, day or night.
Franchisees can also benefit by using podcaststo build local influence and establish
(09:42):
themselves as experts in their communities.
Whether it's becoming the go-to lawn expert inWest Des Moines or the renowned pizza guy in
Chattanooga, podcasts offer a cost-effectiveway for small business owners to reach their
local audience.
Suppliers, too, are finding value inpodcasting.
While the goal may not be lead generation,podcasts provide a platform for brand
(10:06):
awareness, allowing the right audience todiscover and engage with their services.
The key is understanding that the impact isn'timmediate but can be significant over time.
The rise of branded podcasts within franchisingis notable, with brands like Sport Clips, The
Joint Chiropractic, and Huntington LearningCenters leading the way.
(10:28):
A recent survey found that 61 percent oflisteners to branded podcasts reported a more
favorable view of the brand, demonstrating thepotential for a positive halo effect.
Interestingly, audio-only podcasts areparticularly effective at reaching busy
entrepreneurs and even Gen Z audiences, whoprefer this format over video.
(10:51):
The flexibility of audio allows listeners toengage with content while on the go, making it
an ideal medium for today's fast-pacedlifestyle.
To launch a successful franchise podcast,consistency and commitment are key.
Many podcasts start strong but fade quickly dueto busy schedules and unclear return on
investment.
(11:12):
A long-term plan with a commitment to regularepisodes is essential, focusing on engaging
content that keeps listeners coming back.
Keep episodes concise, ideally between 10 to 20minutes, to maintain listener interest without
overwhelming them.
And remember, it's crucial to have a clearfocus and stay true to your unique strengths
(11:33):
within the franchising space.
So, as we continue to embrace this golden ageof podcasting, franchises that leverage this
medium will find themselves ahead of the curve,connecting with audiences in ways that are both
innovative and impactful.
That wraps up today’s update on Podcast DailyBrief.
If you enjoyed staying informed on the latesttrends and developments in the podcasting
(11:57):
world, be sure to subscribe or follow so younever miss an episode.
Stay connected with the world of podcasting!
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