Picture this: a podcast world where HLS (HTTP Live Streaming) isn’t just for your Netflix binges but also for your ear candy. Yeah, we went there. While everyone’s been busy drooling over video streaming, we decided to throw audio into the mix. Because why should video have all the fun, right? We’re talking about HLS and how it’s not just a flashy gimmick for video content, but has some sweet benefits for audio too.

Think about it: seamless switching between quality levels based on your bandwidth, kind of like when you’re trying to watch a video and your Wi-Fi decides to take a nap. You start in glorious HD, and then BAM! It’s 240p because the Internet gods are not smiling upon you today. But with HLS, you could slide right into that audio version without missing a beat, or a word, or the rant about the latest podcasting trends.

We get into the techy stuff, like how HLS breaks media files into bite-sized chunks, making it easier to serve up different quality options. It’s like a buffet, but for your ears. Want low-quality audio because you’re on the go, or do you want to kick it up a notch when you’re back home? HLS has got your back.

And let’s be real, who doesn’t want that? Plus, we also touched on the whole “dynamic content” thing—imagine being able to swap out segments of your podcast without having to re-upload the entire thing. Say goodbye to those embarrassing moments where you realize your co-host’s mic was off for half the episode. With HLS, you could just fix that part and let the rest ride on.

By the end of the episode, we’re practically drooling over the possibilities HLS brings to audio. It might not be here yet, but we’re holding out hope that the podcasting world will eventually get with the times. Who knows? Maybe one day we’ll look back and laugh about the days of static audio files. But for now, we’re just here, dreaming of the future and trying to make sense of the tech that will get us there. So kick back, grab your earbuds, and let’s figure out how to make podcasting better, one HLS chunk at a time!

Takeaways:

• HLS isn't just for video; it has potential benefits for audio podcasting too, which is like, who knew?
• Imagine being able to switch between audio and video seamlessly thanks to HLS; the future of podcasting is wild!
• The idea of dynamic content insertion could revolutionize how we listen to podcasts, but privacy concerns might rain on this parade.
• HLS allows for replacing segments of a podcast without re-uploading the entire file, which is a total game-changer for podcasters.
• With HLS, bandwidth issues can be tackled by switching audio quality on the fly, making it super user-friendly, especially for peeps outside the US.
• The Podcast Standards Project is where the magic is happening for HLS discussions, so if you're into podcasting, keep an eye on that.

Daniel

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Dave Jackson, host and educator at School of Podcasting™

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Picture this: we're diving into the wild world of HLS, or HTTP Live Streaming, because apparently, podcasting needed a fancy new acronym to spice up the already chaotic mix of audio and video content. This isn’t just any tech talk, though; we’re questioning if we’re even solving a problem that exists or if we’re just adding more jargon to confuse the masses.

I mean, is anyone really crying out for better video podcasting tech? Or are we just trying to keep up with the YouTube cool kids who’ve already perfected the art of distraction? Spoiler alert: the answer is probably more ironic than you’d think. As we explore how HLS breaks videos into tiny chunks, allowing seamless transitions and dynamic quality adjustments, we also ponder if this is really innovation or just rearranging the deck chairs on the Titanic. Are we actually creating a better user experience, or just making it easier for advertisers to track our every move? It's a slippery slope, folks, and we’re here for the ride.

Let’s break it down: HLS could actually save us cash by optimizing bandwidth usage. Remember when we’d watch video podcasts loaded with high-res content that our devices couldn’t even handle? Yeah, that’s about to change. With HLS, we can serve the right quality for the right device, so you can watch that 4K video on your desktop and avoid buffering like a pro. But here’s the kicker: while the tech sounds great, we’re left scratching our heads about the overall cost of hosting and whether this is just another excuse for companies to raise prices.

Sure, we can track how long people are engaging with our content, but let’s be real—are we doing this to enhance the viewer experience or to make advertisers happy? The whole thing feels a bit like we’re trying to sell ice to Eskimos.

As we wrap things up, we’re reflecting on the absurdity of it all. Is video really the future of podcasting, or are we just following trends because everyone else is? I mean, when was the last time you wished your favorite podcast was a video instead? Yeah, didn’t think so.

We’re bombarded with video content everywhere we turn, yet somehow the charm of an audio podcast remains. So, is HLS the savior of podcasting or just another shiny object to distract us from the real issues? You’ll have to tune in to find out, but one thing’s for sure: the future of podcasting is going to be anything but boring.

• So, like, HLS is totally shaking up the podcasting world, but seriously, are we even solving a problem here?
• HTTP Live Streaming, or HLS, is basically the new cool kid on the block, but is it even worth the hype?
• We’ve got to think about who benefits from HLS – is it the podcasters or just the advertisers?
• Video podcasts are fancy, but if they cost a fortune to host, who’s really gonna bother?
• Sure, HLS lets us see how far people listen, but is that really the game changer we’ve been waiting for?
• In the end, it’s a wild ride figuring out whether HLS is revolutionary or just rearranging deck chairs on the Titanic.

Dave Jackson, host and educator at School of Podcasting™

Daniel J. Lewis, host and educator at The Audacity to Podcast® and creator of Podgagement®

Listen to this podcast on any of the fine value-enabled app at www.newpodcastapps.com

So, let’s get real about the podcasting scene and this crazy concept of ‘value for value.’ It’s like, when you hear it, you might think, ‘Oh great, another buzzword,’ but hold your horses! Our hosts, Dave and Daniel, are here to unpack this idea with a good dose of sarcasm and wit.

They start by discussing how many podcasters feel their legitimacy hinges on securing that sweet sponsorship deal. Seriously, why do we still tie our worth to advertisers? It’s like saying your podcast is only good if someone’s paying you to talk about toothpaste. No thanks! They argue that the real value comes from the connection you build with your listeners, which is way more important than any sponsor deal could ever be.

Then, they get into the tech aspect, where things get spicy with the mention of streaming satoshis. Like, what even is that? It’s a way to send tiny payments while you listen, but the hosts get into the nitty-gritty of why that might not be the golden ticket we all hope for. They share a laugh about how certain payment platforms have these ridiculous fees that make micropayments basically non-existent. Can you imagine trying to send your podcaster a couple of cents, only for the platform to gobble it all up? It’s a comedy of errors waiting to happen!

By the end, they’re pondering the future of this ‘value for value’ model and whether it’ll actually pan out or if we’ll just be stuck in the same old cycle of sponsorship and ads. They’re like, ‘What if we could create a world where podcasters are rewarded for the actual value they bring?’ It’s a hopeful, yet ironic look at the absurdity of our current monetization strategies. Yeah, we’re all in for the ride, but let’s hope the destination is worth it!

• The future of podcasting is a wild ride, with the concept of value for value leading the charge, but don't be surprised if it gets bumpy along the way.
• Value for value isn't just about cash; it's about the joy you bring to listeners, even if you're not rolling in the dough from sponsors.
• Remember, just because your podcast isn't a cash cow doesn't mean it's not valuable; sometimes fun is worth more than money, right?
• Streaming payments could revolutionize podcast monetization, but you know, only if the tech doesn't implode on itself first.
• Watch out for the 'donate' trap! It could get you in trouble with the tax man, so maybe stick to saying 'give back' instead.
• The whole payment landscape for podcasts is changing, and not just because Apple got slapped with a court ruling; it's about making things easy for everyone involved.

Dave Jackson, host and educator at School of Podcasting™

Daniel J. Lewis, host and educator at The Audacity to Podcast® and creator of Podgagement®

Daniel

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Video is the hot topic, isn't it? Everyone’s buzzing about how video is creeping into the world of podcasting, and honestly, it’s hard to ignore.

Both Dave and Daniel look into this chaotic whirlpool of video versus audio, dissecting what it means for podcasters today.

They explore the undeniable truth that video isn’t just a fad; it’s here to stay, and it’s reshaping how we perceive and consume content. The discussion flits around the implications of integrating video into podcasts, from the logistical hurdles to the creative opportunities it presents.

What does a video strategy for podcasts even look like?

How do we balance the audio-first approach with the visual demands of platforms like YouTube?

They don’t shy away from the absurdity of the situation, pointing out that our beloved audio-only formats are now competing in a world where thumbnails and visual aesthetics are king.

It’s an engaging conversation that highlights the need for podcasters to rethink their content delivery methods, embracing the reality of video while still cherishing the art of audio storytelling.

Takeaways:

• Video is not just a fad; it's a staple of podcasting's future, so get used to it!
• Podcasting and video are like peanut butter and jelly—totally meant to be together.
• If you're still clinging to audio only, it's time to consider a video strategy for your podcast. Seriously, don't be that person.
• YouTube is the new podcast platform, whether you like it or not. Better learn how to play the thumbnail game!
• Embrace the chaos of video content; it’s here to stay, whether you like it or not.
• If you're thinking about starting a video podcast, make sure you actually have a plan—winging it won't cut it!

Links referenced in this episode:

• Ask a Ninja now on Youtube
• newbridgestudios.com
• podpage.com
• Podgagement

Dave Jackson, host and educator at School of Podcasting™

Daniel J. Lewis, host and educator at The Audacity to Podcast® and creator of Podgagement®

Do we even need to bother creating podcast websites anymore? That’s the million-dollar question we’re tackling today. We dive deep into the future of podcasting and whether those little corner spots on the internet are still relevant or just relics of a bygone era. With tools like WordPress getting easier and new platforms popping up, we explore the bizarre landscape of website creation for podcasters—because who doesn't love a good debate about whether to stick with the old-school methods or jump on the latest trends? Spoiler alert: we might not have all the answers, but we sure have a lot of sarcastic opinions on the absurdity of keeping a website in a TikTok world. So grab your headphones and let's figure out if your podcast needs a home or if it’s time to just float in the digital ether like a lost episode.

>> Alright, folks, let’s dive into the chaotic whirlwind that is podcasting websites! Picture this: we’re sitting around, sipping our overpriced lattes, and the million-dollar question pops up – do we even need to create podcast websites anymore? Spoiler alert: it’s a mess! We’ve got the old-timers clinging to their WordPress themes like it’s a lifebuoy on the sinking ship of the internet, while the new kids are all about the cool, shiny app platforms. Remember when a website was your podcast’s home base? Now it feels like we’re just throwing spaghetti at the wall to see what sticks. Sure, we’ve got tools like PodPage making life easier, but does anyone actually visit websites anymore? We’ve got TikTok stars telling us to build our empires on their platforms, but what happens when the next big thing comes along and wipes them off the map? It’s a digital Wild West out there, and we’re all just trying to stake our claim.

In this episode, we explore the evolution of podcasting websites and the tools we’ve used over the years, from the dreaded Dreamweaver to the clunky WordPress plugins. And let’s not forget the nightmare of SEO – is it even worth it? With the rise of AI and social media platforms, we’re questioning if a website is still relevant or just an overpriced digital business card. We’ve seen the stats; most folks discover podcasts through word of mouth, so why not just focus on making killer content and let the algorithms do the rest? But hey, if you’re not sending your listeners to your own site, where are they going? We’re all just a click away from being lost in the abyss of the internet, and that’s a sobering thought.

So where does that leave us? Are we website advocates or just holding onto a relic of the past? With sarcasm dripping from our voices, we ponder whether it’s time to toss the website out entirely or double down and make it the best digital hangout spot for our loyal listeners. Because at the end of the day, we want them to find us and hit play, right? If not, we might as well just record our musings into the void and hope someone stumbles upon them while scrolling through TikTok.

>> As we tumble down this rabbit hole, let’s discuss the absurdity of our reliance on platforms that could vanish tomorrow. We’ve got folks building massive followings on TikTok, but what’s the plan when that platform decides to pull the rug out from under us? In this episode, we dive into the absurdity of the podcasting ecosystem where it seems like the only constant is change. With the rise of AI, we’re seeing more creators turning to tech to enhance their craft, but we can’t help but roll our eyes at the irony – here we are, creators, relying on algorithms to get our art out there. It’s like trying to catch fish with a net full of holes.

We take a hard look at the tools of the trade, from the shiny new website builders to the age-old debate over whether to stick with WordPress or jump ship to something less complicated. And let’s throw in a few laughs about our nostalgic memories of Microsoft Front Page and the dark days of HTML...

What might podcast production look like in the future? Yeah, we’re diving into that juicy topic like it’s a deep-fried Twinkie at the state fair. Daniel and Dave are throwing around some wild ideas about how tech is gonna change the game for podcasters, and let’s be real, it’s kinda bonkers.

From AI editing that makes your audio sound like a million bucks to devices that could practically do it all for you with just a push of a button, we’re basically living in a sci-fi movie. They’re reminiscing about the good ol’ days of hacking together gear like mad scientists to now, where we can just click a button and boom—content! So, if you’re ready to get your mind blown about the future of podcasting, buckle up because it’s gonna be a wild ride.

Dave Jackson, host and educator at School of Podcasting™

Daniel J. Lewis, host and educator at The Audacity to Podcast® and creator of Podgagement®

Daniel

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Takeaways:

• Podcasting's future could see AI tools automating many production aspects, simplifying the process immensely.
• The evolution of podcast technology has made recording more accessible, but it has also led to potential oversaturation.
• As podcasting evolves, critical thinking about content authenticity and AI-generated material becomes crucial.
• Future podcasting setups could involve integrated devices that streamline recording, editing, and publishing for creators.
• AI could be a co-host, enhancing communication and providing real-time feedback to podcasters during recordings.
• The ongoing advancements in podcast technology suggest that simplicity and efficiency will shape the next generation of production tools.

Dave and Daniel share their biggest wishes for the future of podcasting in 2025, highlighting the need for cross-app comments as a critical feature to enhance audience engagement. They discuss the potential benefits this could bring to both listeners and podcasters, fostering a sense of community and interaction that is often lacking in the current landscape.

They also examine the complexities of implementing such features, considering various technical approaches and the importance of making it easy for users to participate.

The conversation also touches on the evolving landscape of podcast monetization, particularly the desire for streamlined payment options that empower creators while minimizing fees.

Reflecting on the past year and the frustrations felt within the podcasting community, Dave and Daniel emphasize the importance of collaboration and unified development efforts to realize these ambitious goals.

• Daniel J. Lewis emphasizes the need for cross-app comments in podcasting, fostering community engagement across platforms.
• Both hosts desire unified features in podcasting to streamline the user experience and encourage adoption.
• Dave Jackson highlights the significance of listener recognition, valuing direct feedback through financial contributions.
• The discussion explores the importance of making podcast payments easier for both creators and listeners.
• Emerging technologies in podcasting could shape how content creators interact and monetize their shows effectively.
• The hosts stress the potential of community-building through shared comments and listener contributions for podcasters.

• schoolofpodcasting.com
• podgagement.com
• podcastindex.social
• podfestexpo.com

Dave Jackson, host and educator at School of Podcasting™

Daniel J. Lewis, host and educator at The Audacity to Podcast® and creator of Podgagement®

Daniel

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Dave

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Listen to this podcast on any of the fine value-enabled app at www.newpodcastapps.com

Today we look at the evolving landscape of cryptocurrency wallets, particularly focusing on the recent challenges faced by Alby Wallets. As these wallets begin to disappear, hosts Daniel and Dave explore the implications for podcasters relying on streaming satoshis for value for value.

They discuss potential alternatives, including the Albie Hub and other wallet solutions, emphasizing the importance of innovation in this transitional phase. The conversation highlights the necessity for simpler, more user-friendly payment systems that don't require deep technical knowledge, ensuring that podcasters and listeners can easily engage with the ecosystem. Ultimately, the duo encourages a mindset shift towards valuing content and supporting creators, setting the stage for a more sustainable future in podcasting.

Takeaways:

• The podcast discusses the complexities involved with cryptocurrency wallets and their evolving landscape.
• Dave Jackson emphasizes the need for simpler solutions to keep cryptocurrency transactions user-friendly.
• Listeners are encouraged to embrace new technologies and adapt to changes in podcast monetization.
• The conversation highlights the importance of community collaboration in finding innovative cryptocurrency solutions.
• A shift in mindset is needed for audiences to embrace the value for value model.
• The hosts explore potential new models for payment splits that could simplify transactions.

The Audacity to Podcast

School of Podcasting

Dave Jackson, host and educator at School of Podcasting™

Daniel J. Lewis, host and educator at The Audacity to Podcast® and creator of Podgagement®

Daniel

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Dave

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Listen to this podcast on any of the fine value-enabled app at www.newpodcastapps.com

See you next year!