Mic Drop Fact
Like optical illusions, you can trick the human ear into hearing sounds differently from how they’re being created. For example, Shepard tones create an auditory “staircase” effect of endlessly rising pitch when, in reality, it’s just a single note.
Hullo there!
I had to laugh at something Lindsay said in response to that endlessly repeated, yet maddeningly vague, piece of podcasting advice: “Don’t be boring.”
“What are you supposed to do with that information? Rely on cartoon sound effects? Light your mic on fire?”
It’s funny because it’s true. Who actually sets out to make a boring podcast? No one thinks, “You know what this show needs? Dead air and monotone musings.” Sure, some podcasts might be unintentionally snooze-worthy, but that’s rarely their unique selling point.
The problem is that "don’t be boring" sounds like advice, but it’s really just a vague accusation pretending to be useful. So what should you do instead? How do you actually make your show more engaging?
Help is on hand with this (and much more) on this edition of Podcraft Pointers...
✂️ CREATOR CUTS💡
📝 Worried your podcast is boring? Here's how to fix that 😴 (Blog)
As teased, then, a counterpoint to the well-meaning but crucially unhelpful and rather lazy advice of "don't be boring". What can you actually do about this fear?
📝 Making podcasts work for neurodivergent listeners 🌈 (Blog)
These tips help make podcasts more accessible to any audience, not just those with neurodivergent needs. An estimated 15–20% of the global population is neurodivergent, so a large part of your audience might benefit from adjustments without realising it.
🎧 Imposter syndrome, content validation, & your first 10 episodes 🥸 (Podcraft)
Does your audience expect expertise or authenticity? On this episode, we're joined by Allan Tweddle of Small Investor Toolbox. He's published 13 episodes to date and has struggled with feelings of impostor syndrome, as well as early audience growth. Can we help him? Imagine if the answer was quite simply "no".
📝 How do I get my podcast on Amazon, Audible, & Alexa? 🔊
(Blog)
Getting your podcast on Amazon, Audible, and Alexa is easier than dumping a cardboard box at the bottom of someone's garden path in the pouring rain with a "sorry we missed you" slip halfheartedly attached to it.
🧘 Celebrating Small Wins 🖋️ (Mindset Moments)
Sometimes, podcasting feels lonely and unrewarding. Download numbers aren’t tangible enough to feel like a real payoff. As podcasters, we need to reward ourselves. Celebrating our wins can help us enjoy podcasting more and make better podcasts.
📺 Why your podcast 'Why' matters 🤷♀️ (YouTube)
The P in our PATH podcast framework is for Purpose - otherwise known as your 'Why'. Here's why asking 'Why' matters so much.
🎧 Podnews & Fiction Podcast Weekly 📰 (Podcasts)
Two short, sharp shows that keep you up-to-date on the podcast industry and the fiction podcasting world, respectively.
📋 Podcast Guesting Checklist 👥 (Resource)
Is there a better way to grow your audience than to guest on another relevant podcast? After all, 100% of the folks who hear you are podcast listeners. Getting booked on other shows is easier said than done, however, but that's where Talks comes in. They can help you find the perfect podcast guest or get featured on other shows, and this free checklist is a brilliant way to get started.
📺 BX4 BT Studio monitor unboxing 📦 (YouTube)
Colin says, "These £100 Bluetooth speakers might be a great fit for your podcasting workflow. No more cable mess when I move between my two offices, plus they've got some seriously clever features I've not seen all in one place before."
I say, "I can never accept 'unboxing' as a real word, but other than that, it's a great video and an intriguing bit of kit!"
🗳️ YOUR CUE 🤔
While the big players throw around phone-number-sized figures and try to pretend they’ve just invented podcasting, the rest of us would do well to stick together. Help us get a "boots on the ground" look at the state of podcasting in 2025, and you could win a laser (seriously, you could!).
The Indie Podcasters' Survey is quick and easy to fill out. It's all multiple choice, and actually rather cathartic. You'll also have the option to enter a prize draw to win a Lewitt RAY (a mic with a laser) and a Connect 2 audio interface. But most importantly of all, you'll have had your say.
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🔎 SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT
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💬 COMMUNITY CONVERSATION
This week, Allegra asks:
If someone only listened to one episode of your show, which one would you want it to be?
"Selecting that one episode can be a tough decision, but it's a great way to reflect on what makes your podcast unique. Consider the episode that best captures your show's essence, showcases your style, or has a special meaning to you.
Share your chosen episode with us and tell us why it stands out. Is it a fan favorite, a personal milestone, or perhaps an episode that sparked an engaging discussion? We can't wait to hear your stories and discover some hidden gems within our community."
- What makes this episode special to you?
- How does it represent your podcast's theme or message?
- Have you received any memorable feedback about this episode?
Join the IndiePod Community today and have your say. It's free!
🧙♂️ The Podcasting Sage Says:
“Podcasting isn’t about talking. It’s about holding attention.”
It’s not how much you say, but how well you keep listeners hooked.
👋 LET US HELP YOU
Whatever you need, whatever your budget, we’ve got you covered
From launch coaching and growth mentorship to editing and production, courses, and podcast feedback, we can tailor a solution precisely to your needs. We're waiting to hear from you, so give us a shout!
Cheers!
Matthew & Colin