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Happy Trails with Lesa McDermott and ‘Girl Camper’ – PCI 440
When Lesa McDermott talks about camping, her enthusiasm lights up like a crackling campfire. A Nebraska native with a background as rich as the landscapes she explores — former golf pro, EMT, dive master, lawyer, and now the vice president of Girl Camper — Lesa embodies the spirit of adventure and empowerment that defines the Girl Camper community. “I kind of inherited the podcast,” explains our May Podcaster of the Month. Lesa recently spoke with Mike Dell, Blubrry VP of customer relations, about her path to podcasting. “It was more of a default.” This wasn’t a random handoff, she explained. It was the natural next step, initiated as a devoted listener who evolved into becoming the voice behind one of the most inspiring outdoor lifestyle brands for women in America. From Listener to Leader Lesa McDermott Lesa’s introduction to the Girl Camper podcast came as a fan. Founded by Janine Pettit, the show began a decade ago when few outdoor-centric podcasts — especially those geared toward women — existed. “It became really popular really quickly,” Lesa recalls. “I loved listening to it and learning all kinds of things about camping.” When Janine later expanded the brand to include local guides and hostesses who would lead camping trips and events across the country, Lesa jumped at the chance to get involved. “I became the South Dakota guide,” she says, “and hosted some trips and events.” Reigniting the Podcast and Expanding the Vision The Girl Camper podcast briefly went on hiatus in 2020 when the organization launched its quarterly magazine, but Lesa was among the first to rally for its return. “I missed that weekly episode,” she admits. When the timing felt right a year ago, Janine asked her to cohost the podcast, now in video format as well. The dual-format show is helping Girl Camper reach a broader audience. The transition hasn’t been without its challenges, especially when it comes to production. “I had no podcasting experience,” Lesa says. “I had to jump in with both feet.” From learning editing software to managing technical hiccups, she’s taken on the production responsibilities, ensuring the show retains the authentic Girl Camper voice. Despite the learning curve, Lesa is thriving. She even credits tools like AI for streamlining her workflow. “I'm using ChatGPT quite a bit... it helps me narrow down topics and write scripts,” she said. A New Kind of Camper For Lesa, camping isn’t just a hobby, it’s a lifestyle. She proudly boasts an arsenal of outdoor gear: “I have a small teardrop. I have a van. I have a fifth wheel. But I also have multiple tents. I love to hammock camp.” She emphasizes that Girl Camper is about inclusion and flexibility. “We like to say at Girl Camper, there’s no wrong way to camp like a girl, and we absolutely mean that.” Whether it's river rafting trips through the Grand Canyon or backpacking 125 miles through the Black Hills with a group of women ranging in age from their 40s to their 70s, Lesa is constantly organizing and leading new experiences. This summer, she’s particularly excited about a 10-day backpacking trip in South Dakota. “We are all carrying all of our supplies — our tents, food, and water. It’s going to be epic.” Evolving Media and Community Impact In addition to the podcast, Lesa and the Girl Camper team’s digital magazine is filled with how-tos, gear reviews, and real-life stories. Originally a print publication, the magazine has fully transitioned to digital — a move Lesa sees as an opportunity. “Now we can really focus on offering interactive content,” she says, such as embedded videos within ads or tutorials. For example, “There’s going to be a video in our upcoming summer issue on how to make a Japanese shaved ice dessert called kakigōri. It’s something we couldn’t do on paper.” Lesa also values the strong online communities that support new podcasters and content creators. She credits the Facebook group RV Content Creators as ...
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22:00
Turning Your Podcast Mistakes into Happy Accidents That Help You Grow – PCI 439
Every podcaster, no matter how experienced, has made their fair share of mistakes — and that's not just normal, it's necessary for growth. In this episode we’re digging into the common slip-ups that happen behind the mic, why they’re nothing to be ashamed of, and how embracing mistakes can actually make your show stronger and more relatable. From technical glitches to guest mispronunciations, we'll explore how these moments can lead to unexpected opportunities, audience connection, and long-term podcasting success. Mistakes aren’t roadblocks — they’re building blocks. Every podcaster has them—flubbed intros, awkward silences, tech fails. But what if your mistakes aren’t setbacks, but setups for growth? Today's Hosts: MacKenzie Bennett and Mike Dell Common Podcasting Mistakes (And Why They’re Normal) Technical mishaps: bad audio, dead batteries, laggy guests. Editing errors: missed ums and ahs, over-editing, or publishing the wrong version. Content mistakes: rambling tangents, missed questions, forgetting your CTA. Guest flubs: a guest misspeaks, or you pronounce their name wrong (and how recovery matters more than perfection). Point: Mistakes happen to everyone, from beginners to seasoned pros. Normalize it! The Hidden Gifts in Podcasting Mistakes Authenticity: Listeners love real moments; they feel more connected when you’re human. Unexpected Content: Tangents or mistakes can turn into great bonus episodes or blooper reels. Learning Opportunities: Every error teaches you something—about your process, equipment, or even your audience. Audience Engagement: Invite your audience in on your learning journey ("What do you think I should’ve done here?"). Idea: Some podcasters even intentionally share bloopers to build community and lighten the mood. How to Turn Mistakes into Growth Reflect, Don’t Regret: After a mistake, ask: What went wrong? What’s the lesson? Document Lessons Learned: Keep a "lessons log" for future episodes. Adjust Processes: Add checklist items to prevent repeat errors. Embrace Real-Time Recovery: Practice improv and grace when things go off-script. Celebrate Progress: Revisit early episodes to appreciate your growth curve. Bonus Tip: Try turning small mistakes into bonus content or future topic inspiration. Mindset Shift: From Perfection to Progress The pressure to be perfect and how it actually stifles creativity. Letting go of perfection opens up space for experimentation and genuine connection. Listeners often prefer personality over perfection—they’re tuning in for you, not flawless execution. Tips for Minimizing the Impact of Mistakes Redundancy in recording (record locally + cloud). Soundcheck and equipment checklist before each episode. Prep outlines but allow for organic conversation. Record short segments rather than long continuous takes. Have a post-production review process. Reflect on their own growth moments and celebrate progress. Even when you think you’re past the learning curve, new mistakes pop up. Here’s how to stay humble and curious as your show evolves. Looking back, our best lessons came from moments we didn’t plan. Mistakes make better podcasters. Thanks for listening to Podcast Insider, you can subscribe to new episodes out every Monday. The best place for support with any Blubrry product or service is our ticket system. Tickets give the whole team access vs. direct emails or calls. General podcasting discussions and more can be shared on the Blubrry Podcasting Facebook group. Fill out our listener survey at surveys.blubrry.com/podcastinsider Hosting customers can schedule a one-on-one call with Todd or a tech checkup with Mike at [email protected] and [email protected] Stay tuned for more episodes and visit our website for the latest updates and resources.
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18:42
Sustainable Podcasting: Eco-Friendly Practices for Creators – PCI 438
Let’s explore ways to create a more sustainable podcasting workflow, reduce waste, and inspire listeners to take eco-friendly action. As Earth Day approaches, it's a perfect time for podcasters to reflect on their environmental impact and take actionable steps toward sustainability. While podcasting is largely a digital medium, it still consumes energy, data, and resources—and increasingly, AI tools like ChatGPT and other platforms also play a role in your workflow, using significant computing power. By making small yet meaningful changes, podcasters can contribute to a greener industry while maintaining high-quality content. Today's Hosts: Mike Dell, MacKenzie Bennett, and Todd Cochrane We’re diving into sustainable podcasting—simple steps you can take to reduce waste, conserve energy, and make your show a little greener! 1. Optimize Your Podcasting Setup for Energy Efficiency The equipment you use for recording, editing, and publishing your podcast can have a significant environmental footprint. Consider these changes: ✅ Use energy-efficient devices – Choose ENERGY STAR-rated computers, LED lights, and low-power audio interfaces. ✅ Opt for rechargeable batteries – Instead of disposable batteries for wireless mics or audio gear, go rechargeable. ✅ Turn off and unplug equipment when not in use – Many electronics consume power even when turned off. ✅ Switch to renewable energy sources – If possible, power your studio with solar energy or choose a green energy plan. 📢 Earth Day Challenge: Record and edit an episode using only battery-powered or solar-powered devices! 2. Minimize Your Podcast's Digital Carbon Footprint Podcast hosting and distribution rely on energy-intensive data centers, which contribute to carbon emissions. AI platforms you use for editing, scripting, or generating content also depend on large-scale cloud computing, which consumes significant energy. While there aren’t dedicated "green" hosting providers in podcasting yet, you can take steps to reduce your podcast’s digital impact: ✅ Optimize audio file sizes – Use efficient formats like AAC or MP3 (note Spotify only supports MP3) with optimized bit rates to reduce data storage and transmission energy. ✅ Be mindful of AI usage – Use AI tools thoughtfully, as every prompt requires substantial computing power from data centers. ✅ Use content delivery networks (CDNs) – Many hosting providers use CDNs to distribute content more efficiently, reducing the distance data must travel. ✅ Audit and clean up old episodes – If you have outdated or inactive episodes, consider archiving or deleting them to free up storage space. 📢 Earth Day Tip: Encourage your listeners to stream over Wi-Fi instead of mobile data, which requires more energy from cellular networks. By managing your digital footprint—including AI usage—you help reduce energy consumption while maintaining a high-quality listening experience. 3. Reduce Digital Waste and Optimize Storage Even digital content has an environmental cost, as cloud storage and AI operations require electricity. Keep your podcast’s footprint minimal: ✅ Clean up old backups and files – Delete unnecessary drafts and duplicate content to reduce cloud storage usage. ✅ Use efficient editing workflows – Minimize redundant rendering and exporting, which uses extra processing power. ✅ Use AI-assisted editing sparingly – Consider where AI truly adds value, as constant AI processing increases energy demand. ✅ Store files locally when possible – Keeping essential recordings on an external hard drive rather than cloud storage can reduce energy demand. 📢 Earth Day Action: Take 30 minutes to clean up your podcast storage and remove outdated files. 4. Go Digital with Podcast Marketing Many podcasters rely on printed materials for marketing, but there are greener alternatives: ✅ Use digital notes and scripts – Apps like Notion, Evernote, or Google Docs reduce the need for paper.
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28:47
Who’s Making the Most Money in Podcasting? – PCI 437
Making Money in 2025 – What Works, What Doesn’t? Monetizing a podcast in 2025 isn't as simple as slapping ads on your episodes and calling it a day. Some revenue streams are thriving, while others? Not so much. Today, we’re breaking down what’s working, what’s fading, and what podcasters should focus on to actually make money in 2025. Today's Hosts: Mike Dell and Todd Cochrane Who is Making the Money Money in Podcasting in 2025? 1: The State of Podcast Monetization in 2025 Then vs. Now: How podcast monetization has evolved from basic ads to a mix of diversified income streams. What’s Changed? ✅ More podcasters are using multi-platform revenue models (YouTube, social media, newsletters). ✅ Traditional ad sponsorships are shifting—brands want more ROI, leading to performance-based deals. ✅ The pay-to-play model (subscriptions, memberships) is rising, but does it work for every podcast? Who’s Making the Most Money? – Big networks vs. independent creators vs. niche podcasters. 2: Sponsorships – Do They Still Work? CPM-based ads vs. Dynamic Ad Insertion (DAI) – Is the traditional CPM model sustainable for indie podcasters? Brands in 2025: What Are They Looking For? ✅ More niche-specific partnerships. ✅ Measurable engagement over download numbers. ✅ Long-term relationships vs. one-off ad placements. How to Land Sponsors in 2025: ✅ Creating brand-friendly content. ✅ Negotiating value-based deals, not just CPM rates. ✅ Using listener data to showcase audience loyalty. Pro Tip: Even small podcasts can land affiliate sponsorships or direct brand deals—it’s all about audience connection. 3: Premium Content & Subscriptions – The Big Shift? Are listeners actually paying for premium content? Subscription platforms in 2025: Apple Podcasts, Patreon, Spotify, Substack, and other direct-to-fan monetization. What’s working? ✅ Bonus episodes, ad-free content, and exclusive interviews. ✅ Behind-the-scenes content & private community access. ✅ Bundling podcast subscriptions with other offerings (newsletters, live Q&As). What’s NOT working? ❌ Generic paywalls with no real incentive. ❌ Subscription fatigue—too many platforms asking for money. 📢 Key Insight: The most successful subscription models are tied to strong community engagement—not just extra content. 4: Live Events – Worth the Effort? The Rise of Hybrid Podcast Events – Live-streaming + in-person experiences. Types of Monetizable Events: ✅ Ticketed live podcast tapings. ✅ Virtual workshops, AMAs, and Q&As. ✅ VIP meet-and-greets or networking events. Why Some Podcast Events Flop: ❌ Overestimating audience size & demand. ❌ High production costs vs. actual revenue. 📢 Case Study: How podcasts like My Favorite Murder & The Last Podcast on the Left turned live shows into major revenue drivers. 5: Merch – Is It Still a Viable Income Stream? The state of podcast merchandise in 2025: ✅ Branded items like shirts, mugs, and stickers still sell—if the fanbase is engaged. ✅ Niche, creative merch (custom journals, soundbite NFTs, digital downloads) is gaining traction. ✅ Print-on-demand services make it easier than ever to sell without high upfront costs. What’s NOT working? ❌ Generic merch with no brand connection. ❌ Selling products to an audience that isn’t engaged. Pro Tip: The best-selling podcast merch is inside-joke-driven—if your fans “get it,” they’ll buy it. 6: The Future of Podcast Monetization – What’s Next? Are ad-supported podcasts sustainable? What emerging revenue streams should podcasters experiment with? ✅ Paid podcast courses & coaching. ✅ AI-powered listener insights to create targeted premium content. ✅ Integrated commerce (shop while you listen). Final Takeaway: The key to making money in 2025 is diversification—podcasters can’t rely on just one revenue stream anymore. --------- What’s been your best (or worst) monetization strategy? Let us know on social or send us a voice memo,
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20:32
Rerun – Top 10 Worst Pieces of Podcast Advice and Why – PCI 414
Thanks for your patience as we get your a fresh new episode next week - in our defense - Mike, MacKenzie and Todd were all out at events last week! We’re bringing this one back because it’s just too good — and still so relevant. As we roll out Guest Match Pro, we’re reminded of all the "bad advice" that still floats around in the podcasting world. In this episode, we tackled the Top 10 Worst Pieces of Podcast Advice and explained why you should steer clear. Whether you’re booking guests, looking to grow your audience, or just want to avoid common pitfalls, this rerun is packed with clarity and no-nonsense guidance. Give it another listen — and share it with a podcaster friend! Today's Hosts: Mike Dell and MacKenzie Bennett #10: “All You Need is Passion, Equipment Doesn’t Matter” Why it’s bad: Yes, passion is crucial, but listeners can tell if you’re recording with a low-quality microphone or in a noisy room. Bad audio is a quick way to lose listeners. Better advice: Invest in at least decent equipment and learn basic soundproofing techniques to keep your passion sounding professional. #9: “More Episodes = More Success” Why it’s bad: Releasing multiple episodes every week won’t matter if the content isn’t good. Quality over quantity is the key to success. Better advice: Stick to a manageable release schedule that allows you to create quality content consistently. #8: “Don’t Bother with Editing, Raw is Real” Why it’s bad: While authenticity is important, long pauses, filler words, or awkward moments aren’t entertaining. Editing helps tighten the flow and keep listeners engaged. Better advice: Edit for clarity and flow, even if you want to keep it conversational. #7: “You Don’t Need Show Notes or a Website” Why it’s bad: Show notes and a website improve searchability, provide additional resources, and make your podcast more professional. Ignoring them means missing out on growth. Better advice: Always include detailed show notes and have a basic website to direct listeners for more information. #6: “If You Build It, They Will Come” Why it’s bad: Simply launching a podcast doesn’t mean people will magically find it. Marketing, promotion, and networking are essential to grow your audience. Better advice: Have a solid marketing plan, including social media, collaborations, and consistent outreach to grow your listener base. #5: “Monetize Right Away!” Why it’s bad: Jumping into monetization without a solid listener base can turn off potential fans. Ads on day one can feel forced and inauthentic. Better advice: Focus on growing your audience before considering monetization strategies, and make sure the ads fit your content and audience. #4: “Just Copy What’s Popular” Why it’s bad: Trying to mimic the format, style, or content of other successful podcasts rarely works. Listeners want originality and authenticity, not a poor imitation of their favorite shows. Better advice: Find your unique voice and perspective; that’s what will draw in listeners. #3: “Focus on Going Viral” Why it’s bad: Chasing virality often leads to gimmicky content that doesn’t retain a loyal audience. A single viral moment doesn’t guarantee long-term success. Better advice: Focus on creating consistent, high-quality content that builds a loyal following over time, rather than aiming for a viral hit. #2: “Make Your Podcast for Everyone” Why it’s bad: Trying to appeal to everyone often means your content is too broad and doesn’t resonate with a specific audience. A niche is key to growing a dedicated following. Better advice: Focus on a clear niche or target audience. Being specific will help attract the right listeners. #1: “Don’t Bother with Marketing—Just Focus on the Content” Why it’s bad: While content is king, marketing is essential to getting that content in front of listeners. Without marketing, even the best podcast can go unnoticed. Better advice: Always include marketing as part of your podcasting strategy.
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31:41