Smarter Podcasting: Making Podcasts Better

You won’t believe how good it still sounds — that’s the power of the right setup. - Niall Mackay

After producing over 70 podcasts — including award-winning shows — I’ve recorded everywhere from tiled bedrooms in Vietnam to purpose-built studios in Europe. And I get asked all the time:

Should I record from home, or use a podcast studio?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but there are key differences you...

"It’s as important as naming your child—your podcast name really matters."

This Q&A episode was such a joy to create because it gave me a chance to engage directly with listeners and answer the most relevant and practical questions people have about podcasting. I loved how organic and personal it felt—like having a coffee with someone who genuinely wants to get better at podcasting. It was less about me teach...

"There is  more  and more money  going into podcasting advertising every year. Billions and billions now worldwide. So where is it?"

Let’s be honest—everywhere you turn, you’re being told podcasting is a goldmine. Billions of dollars in ad revenue! Massive growth! Side hustle magic! But where is that money really going? Because it’s not landing in your inbox—or mine.

In this episode of Smarter Podcasting, I’m joined by the ...

YouTube actually tells you that 50% of views will drop out within the first 30 seconds. That's mental that that YouTube knows for a fact that half of your audience will be gone within 30 seconds.”

I got a chance to audit Nicki Sun’s podcast, “Nicki Sun Show”, and I feel like this podcast audit is really a treat, as I could connect with someone who shares a deep passion for storytelling and uplifting marginalized voice...

“It doesn’t feel like work. And it’s only possible because you guys have spent your hours on the edit. That’s why I work with Seven Million Bikes Podcasts.”

(THIS EPISODE WAS CREATED IN 3 HOURS!!)

I talk to Radim Malinic — creative director, TED speaker, six-time author, and host of the Mindful Creative Podcast — about how launching a podcast changed his business forever.

Since January 2024, Radim has released over 140 episodes, grown...

“You don’t know where one conversation is gonna take you. So have it.” — Greg Wasserman

I absolutely loved this conversation with Greg Wasserman — it’s one of those episodes where I found myself nodding the entire time. Greg is the Head of Relationships at RSS.com and he gets it. This is a must-listen if you’ve ever wondered why your business needs a podcast, how to use it as a true marketing and relationship-building tool...

"The best way to monetize your podcast? Offer something only you can deliver." - Niall Mackay

I’m incredibly proud of this episode because it’s not just talk — it’s action. I put my money where my mouth is and launched two offers directly to my audience: the Podcast Launch Lab and the Podcast Makeover. Rather than waiting for sponsorships or chasing downloads, I showed that you can monetize your podcast by sellin...

“If your number one goal is to make money from your podcast, then you’ve already made the wrong decision.”

In this episode, I break down one of the biggest myths in podcasting — that it's a quick way to make money.

Too many blogs and YouTube videos will tell you to start a podcast as a “side hustle.” But here’s the truth: podcasting takes time, effort, and love for the medium. If you’re only in it for the money, you’re likely to...

“You don’t need a camera crew or a studio—just text, an idea, and Descript’s AI can turn it into a video that actually grabs attention.”

Listen to this episode and I’ll tell you about one of the coolest new tools from Descript: its AI text-to-video feature. If you’ve ever struggled with creating video content for your podcast or business—or if you're just short on time—this tool could be a game changer. I walk you thr...

"Your podcast isn’t just audio—it’s content waiting to be repurposed across multiple platforms. Leverage it wisely!"

In this episode, we talked about how podcasters can maximize their reach using social media. Many creators focus solely on publishing episodes, hoping listeners will find them. But in reality, your podcast's success hinges on strategic promotion. Social media isn’t just about sharing links; it’s about s...

"Podcasting changed my life. It opened doors I never imagined—and it can do the same for you."

This episode is actually a re-upload, but it’s one I knew I had to bring back. Consistency is key in podcasting, and while I wasn’t able to record something new this week, I didn’t want to leave you without value. This episode is packed with 25 actionable tips to help you grow your podcast—whether you’re just starting o...

"Good podcasting is about generously communicating and showing up for your listener and being able to deliver them really good value. " - Mark Steadman

If you’re a podcaster, new or experienced, this podpast episode will change the way you approach your craft. 

This episode with Mark Steadman was an absolute masterclass in podcasting. His insights on putting the listener first have completely reshaped th...

"48% of podcasts on Apple Podcasts have fewer than 10 episodes. Podfade is real, but it doesn’t have to happen to you."

If you’ve ever worried about running out of content or losing momentum, this episode is a must-listen.

This episode is packed with insights every podcaster needs—especially if you want your show to last beyond the first few episodes. So many podcasts start strong but quickly fade away because of poor plann...

This conversation with Nick Thomson was an absolute masterclass in why businesses need to start thinking about podcasting as a key marketing tool. Nick brought such a fresh and insightful perspective, particularly around the idea that podcasting isn't just about downloads—it's about brand awareness, networking, and positioning yourself as an authority in your field.

One of the things I loved about this episode was how we t...

“Invest a little bit in a good microphone, know what you're doing, how to use it and make the best content and make the best quality content that you can. Trust me, it will make a massive difference.” 

I was absolutely blown away when I discovered A Vietnam Podcast had reached the top 5% of podcasts globally. It’s been a rollercoaster—figuring out what works, what doesn’t, and most importantly, learning to appreciate the proces...

“ No one's going to say no for an interview because every SME owner needs that awareness.” - Joel Zorrilla

LinkedIn was a platform I had overlooked for years, and now I realize the massive potential it has for podcasters. My guest, Joel Zorrilla, gave some incredible insights that not only validated my experiences but also opened my eyes to strategies I hadn't even considered.

One of the biggest takeaways for me w...

 "This is what podcasting will become - it will become second nature for all businesses to have one." 

Podcasting has evolved into an essential tool for businesses, and I firmly believe that it will soon be as indispensable as having a website. Just a few years ago, businesses could get away with not having an online presence, but now? It’s unthinkable. Podcasting is heading in the same direction. If you're not a...

“One of the biggest barriers to people starting their own podcast is because of the equipment needed to start their own show..”

I wanted to inspire anyone considering starting a podcast in 2025 with this episode. Podcasting changed my life—what began as a hobby is now a thriving business that connects me with people across the globe. 

The barriers to starting your own show are lower than ever, and the opportunities are endless. From ...

“If someone came to me and asked for advice on a podcast room, I'd say carpet, no tiles, no windows, make it nice and cozy and tight to stop that sound reverberating around.”

This episode really showcases how you don't need a perfect studio setup to create professional-quality podcasts. When I started in 2019 with just a Blue Yeti mic and an old MacBook Pro, I never imagined I'd be helping produce over 700 episodes an...