Podcast Editors Mastermind
Do you like podcast editing? Are you a Podcast Editor or want to be a Podcast Editor? This is the show for you. It's for Podcast Editors, by Podcast Editors. We mastermind topics with your peers, industry leaders, and talk about podcast editing as a career or serious side-hustle. Follow the show, get involved in the Podcast Editors Club Facebook group, and stay in touch with the latest events and news through the newsletter at https://www.PodcastEditorAcademy.com/newsletter. When you're ready, consider joining us in the Podcast Editor Academy!This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis...
How To Control Your Taxable Income: Webinar August 4th
Join us for a FREE webinar about ways you can save on taxes AND avoid "The Subsidy Cliff".
If you're self-employed and getting subsidies for health insurance, you need to know what The Subsidy Cliff is - and more importantly...how to avoid it!
Advice-only financial planner Sean Mullaney will share how easy and impactful each tactic is so YOU can make the decisions on what steps might work for you and your family.
Tuesday, August 4th at 3pm ET / 12pm Pacific:
https://www.PodcastEditorAcademy.com/webinar
<...
Survey: Best Podcast Listening App Features
Aren't all podcast apps the same? Not in the least!
The most used features in podcast apps from our brief July 2026 survey were:
52% adjust playback speed48% said "Notifications of new episodes"48% also said they use Chapters44% like the Auto-Delete of completed episodes33% read along with the transcripts26% utilize a Smart Playlist feature25% set a timer18% have their app boost vocals or do loudness normalization14% said micropayments like Boostagrams and streaming sats were importantJenn Trepeck, Daniel J Lewis, Dave Jackson, and Martin Lindeskog join us for a conversation about these apps and...
Top 5 Things Our Clients Should Stop Focusing on (And Things They Should)
#130: Podcasters should STOP focusing on the wrong things - and put that time and effort into the right things.
Our panel discusses several things we see our clients doing that could be better spent in areas that will make their shows more successful.
Do you agree with the Top 5 Things we shared? We certainly didn't agree with each other...why should you? š
Key moments:
(03:36) Stop Chasing AI & Video Views
(06:16) Beyond Downloads and Video Stress
(08:36) Video Engagement vs. Audio Depth
(12:49) Videoās Flexibility and Challenges
(17...
Podcast Editor's Regrets: What We Wish We Knew When We Started
#129: What do you wish you know when first starting to edit podcasts for clients?
Our panel shares their thoughts about undercharging, their lack of marketing, and a "trap" that many of us have fallen into.
Key moments:
Estimate and bill for editing time to avoid undercharging and ensure profitabilityDevelop a marketing strategy and a strong portfolio to attract clientsDefine your niche and offer strategic consultation alongside editing servicesEstablish clear contracts with trial periods and retainersLeverage built-in software features rather than overspending on pluginsPrioritize continuous learning and adaptation to industry changes__________________________
...
Studies Show Filler Words Impact Listener Engagement
#128: Do filler words matter?
Tom Hanson found several key findings from research and industry data that shows filler words do matter!
"Episodes with >4 filler words per minute saw 18ā22% higher drop-off rate in the first 10 minutes compared to ācleanā episodes" according to a Riverside listener study.How can you and I use this knowledge to convince potential clients that it's worth paying us to remove filler words?
We discuss the impact of filler words on the success of podcasts in this episode of the Podcast Editors Mastermind Show.
š Stick around to the end for t...
Finding a New Job in Podcast Production, with Carrie Caulfield
#127: Carrie Caulfield is back to give a behind-the-scenes look at what it actually takes to grow beyond "just" editing.
She talks about how she went from editing simple interview shows to landing a major role with the Legal Media Networkāall sparked by a note in the Podcast Editors Club Facebook group with a pitch. Carrie didnāt wait until she felt āready.ā Instead, she kept saying yes to opportunities, learning as she went, and building her confidence through experience rather than formal training.
As her career progressed, she naturally moved beyond e...
What the Top 100 Business Podcasts Do, with Megan Dougherty
#126: What are the biggest podcasts doing?
Megan Dougherty of One Stone Creative shares information from their research into the trends and best practices of the top 100 Business Podcasts.
Key topics:
Churn: Nearly 48% of top 100 business pods are new to the listBranding visuals and colorsFormat/structure and show lengthHow many have video and go āvideo firstā?Websites and show notesResources mentioned in the show:
Download the Report https://onestonecreative.net/ReportThe Podcasting for Business Book (free): https://podcastingforbusiness.comStephen Robles' article: https://beard.fm/blog/goodbye-podcasts-hello-showsA...
Just another PodCon, or is PM SXSW the Industry Leading Event?
#125: In the ever-evolving podcast industry, attending big podcons events can be pivotal for creators and service providers alike.
Chad Parizman shares his experience from the new Podcast Movement SXSW event in March 2026.
I ask Chad:
What was different?How much did he spend?Was it worth it?Will he go again?About Chad Parizman
Chad provides Podcast Production and Strategy for brands and organizations. Connect with him at https://www.adercommunications.com or on LinkedIn
______________________________
Tools we used:
*Riverside.fm to RECORD
...
Storytelling as a Service, with Pat Fenner and Mark Deal
#124: "Storytelling as a Serviceā (SaaS, as Mark Deal would say) is a way Podcast Managers, Producers, and even Editors can make money on the development of a serialized, documentary-style podcast.
Mark Deal and Pat Fenner created āHabitat: Heart, Hammer, and Homeā, a documentary podcast about housing, hope, and the people building stronger communities. The project serves as a proof of concept for a higher-tier service, with the core idea of creating compelling, narrative-driven audio experiences that differentiate your offerings in a crowded market.
Key moments:
(05:43) How Storytelling as a Service Benefits Podcast Professionals
...
Rush Fees - OR maybe have clients send flowers instead?
#123: Implementing fees without alienating clients is a key challenge for contractors like us. Things become exceedingly difficult when trying to balance a normal full-time workload and "incentivize" clients to send their files on time.
What are the options we have to shuffle jobs around to accommodate a client who "needs it tomorrow"? Angelina Gurrola and Charles Commins provide solutions you can use in your own business.
Key moments:
(00:00) Defining Late and Rush Fees
(06:35) Enforcing Fees Without Alienating Clients
(12:13) Including Fees in Proposals and Contracts
(15:38) Client Choices and...
The Ultimate Guide to Podcast Chapters, with Daniel J. Lewis
#122: Are Podcast Chapters a good thing?
Most people would say "Of course they are".
Steve has reservations, mostly because chapters help listeners more easily skip ads, and that's not a good thing for clients who have ads in their show. However, Podcast Chapters are useful. And very cool...especially when you hear about what can be done with Chapter Images (see chapter #11 of this episode)!
In our conversation with Daniel J. Lewis, we talk through all the ins and outs of podcast chapters, their benefits, and how they can transform your client's show...
Is A.I. Making Us Less Valuable? Hot Takes From 2025 and Podcast Editor Predictions
#121: There have been SIGNIFICANT changes in our industry this past year.
A.I. is being added to everythingAcross-the-board price increases on the tools we useThe loss of Todd Cochrane and Niel Guillarte, plus the separation of some very influential people from the companies they helped buildOur panel of pros reflect on 2025, talk about how A.I. isn't making us undervalued, and we share predictions for Podcast Editors in 2026.
Our conversation with Pam Cameron, Jay Yow, and Chad Parizman highlights the need for podcast producers to adapt - and embrace - changes while maintaining...
Podcast Marketing Trends with Jeremy Enns
#120: Jeremy Enns joins us to discuss observations from his Podcast Marketing Trends report that pertain to Podcast Editors, Podcast Managers, and anyone who helps podcasters grow their reach and audience.
Our conversation covers the balance between audio and video content, the challenges of monetization through sponsorships, and the significance of understanding client goals in podcast production. Jeremy shares valuable data on business models in podcasting and offers advice for production businesses to adapt to changing trends.
What you'll get from this episode:
Podcast marketing encompasses growing subscriber counts and retaining listenersEditing plays an important...Hey Podcast Editor! Why aren't you podcasting?
#119: There is a peculiar paradox where many Podcast Editors, Managers, and Producers do not host their own shows.
Our panel today explores the reasons behind this, including time constraints and perfectionism, while also highlighting the significant benefits that podcastING can bring to our careers and reputations.
The core debate centers on whether post-production professionals should have their own shows -- and no... the answer isn't as easy as you think!
Key moments:
(00:00) The PodcastING Paradox for Podcast Editors
(03:13) Why is this such a debate?
(05:23) Should someone start...
Facebook Ads for Your Clientsā Shows, with Megan Shields
#118: Megan Shields discusses the intricacies of Facebook advertising, particularly for podcast editors who want to help their clients expose their clientsā shows to a larger audience. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the relevance of Facebook ads in today's digital landscape, debunks common myths, and outlines strategies for both client acquisition and podcast promotion.
Megan explains the role of the Meta tracking pixel, how to set up effective ad campaigns, and also highlights the importance of collaboration between podcast editors and ad managers to maximize ROI and achieve business goals.
Takeaways
Facebook ads remain re...Visible Pricing: The Pros and Cons of Posting Rates on Your Website
#117: Can posting your prices harm or help your business?
Matthew Bliss and Mike Wilkerson join us to debate the benefits and pitfalls of giving potential clients a peek at what you charge, and the need for a strong value proposition regardless!
At the end, Steve shares his 2025 experiment of posting rates on his website. Did it help? Listen to find out!
Summary:
Visible pricing can attract the right clients but may deter others
Discovery calls are essential for understanding client needs and budgets
Experience plays a crucial...
The Three Buckets of Podcast Growth, with Adam Schaeuble
#116: Adam Schaeuble discusses the three buckets of podcast growth that we can share with our clients:
Effort-based marketingPaid advertisingOrganic discoverabilityWe discuss insights on leveraging paid ads on podcast platforms and the significance of SEO in podcasting - plus the need for helping our clients focus on growth strategies that yield tangible results.
Key takeaways:
The three buckets of podcast GROWTHEffort-based marketing is often the LEAST effective for growthOur clients should focus on leveraging their shows to GAIN CLIENT of their own rather than sponsorshipsOrganic discoverability is CRUCIAL for attracting the right audienceShow...Metrics of Success: Understanding Podcast Analytics, with Seth Silvers
#115: I've been saying for over a decade that 50% of downloads are lies. The truth came out when the IOS 17 update hit, and everyone realized the Emperor had only half of his clothes.
But Analytics? Those are GOLD!
Seth Silvers from storyon.co shares the importance of analytics and metrics in measuring success.
We go into the significance of retention rates, the need for experimentation in formats and the first 5 minutes of an episode, and how he communicate all this to their clients.
Our conversation highlights the challenges of understanding downloads versus...
Helping Clients with Ads and Sponsorships: How Can Podcast Editors Help?
#114: Want to help your clients grow revenue? We ask Heather Osgood, CEO of True Native Media, to share how Podcast Editors and Podcast Managers can work with sponsorships and advertising.
Heather shares her expertise on what podcasters want from sponsorships, what works best to get a better ROI, and how podcast editors can work with agencies like True Native Media.
Key learnings:
The different types of podcast ads and which ones generate the most incomeHow to determine if a podcast is ready for sponsorships, and what to do if itās notTactical things to co...Turn Lurkers Into Your Clientsā Most Loyal Listeners, with Meredith Hackwith Edwards
#113: Meredith Hackwith Edwards founder of an "idea consultancy" called Outsider Advantage, shares with us the challenges and opportunities of using social media to promote our clients' podcasts. She says to have fun when focusing on authentic and purposeful content.
Meredith shares her experience working with clients on their specific strategies, while appropriately pricing and packaging our services to include social media support.
Key moments:
Identify and utilize strong self-identifiers in social media posts to resonate with your target audienceCreate short-form video content using tools like Opus Clips, highlighting engaging moments from your podcast episodesStrategically...Pricing Options: How Podcast Editors Charge for their Services
#112: How do you charge for your service as a Podcast Editor?
Most charge a flat rate per episode or monthly retainer, but how do you come up with those rate?
And how do you know it's earning you more than a part-time job a McDonald's?
Learn from top podcast editors as they reveal their proven pricing strategies, helping you optimize your income and building a sustainable business!
Key moments:
Charging by the Length of the Raw RecordingFlat Fees vs. Length-Based PricingExploring Monthly RetainersInvoicing StrategiesRolling over "Credits"Understanding Value-Based PricingSteve Stewart's...Invoicing Best Practices and Methods for Getting Paid! š¤ - with Freelancer Eric Rosenberg
#111: Getting paid is one of the most important steps in running a thriving podcast editing business. How you invoice for your work can have a huge impact on your cash flow and profitability.
Eric Rosenberg shares some best practices when invoicing clients, as a freelancer, and the challenges of balancing your client's needs with our self-employed realities.
While listening, pay particular attention to the importance of strategic invoicing for peace of mind, the various payment models available, and how to leverage technology to automate your invoicing process.
Key moments:
Invoice clients monthly...RED FLAGS! š© How do you avoid them? ...with Matthew Bliss
#110: What warning signs should podcast editors watch out for when working with clients? Matthew Bliss shares some of his recent āred flagsā ā those subtle (and not-so-subtle) signals that things might go wrong in a client relationship.
How many of these red flags have you experienced?
Unclear expectationsPoor communicationUnreasonable turnaround timesLate paymentsListen in on our candid stories, and arm yourself with some practical strategies for handling tricky situations.
Whether youāre a seasoned editor or just starting out, this show will deliver useful wisdom for building stronger, smoother client collaborations...and profit!
Ke...
The State of Video Podcasts? š„ with Jay Nachlis
#109: Has YouTube won the podcasting game? It sure seems like it.
A recent study by Coleman Insights and Amplifi Media shares the perception of what the public thinks a podcast is, where they are discovering new shows, and some surprising information about Spotify's place in the video podcast landscape.
BONUS:
Steve shares "The Cost and ROI of YouTube videos" at the end. He gives real data behind a successful YouTube video that made $59,000 in ad revenue, and ideas for how you can speak to your potential client who wants to use YouTube to...
YouTube Thumbnail Best Practices, with Andrew Armstrong
#108: Do you know how crucial YouTube thumbnails are to the success of a video? Andrew Armstrong reveals strategies to craft video thumbnails that grab attention and make people click Play!
Discover how the first impression provided by thumbnails can make or break your client's video's success, functioning as a gateway to garner viewersā interest. Andrew shares how to leverage YouTube's built-in A/B testing tool to identify the most effective designs that keep audiences engaged.
The conversation also touches on how YouTubeās algorithm emphasizes search results based on watch time and audience behavior, shifting the...
The Value (and Cost) of Episodic Artwork, with Mathew Passy
#107: Apple recently changed the way they display artwork in their Podcasts app.
This is important to note because there can be some negative consequences if you're not following a consistent process or even unaware, as Steve was, about adding artwork to each upload to your clients' media host.
Mathew Passy shares the benefits of having good Show artwork (for the entire podcast), and if there is any value in having Episodic artwork (for each episode).
Key Takeaways:
The Benefits of a good thumbnailUsing the headshots in Show artworkWhat NOT to include in...Podcast to Inbox: Building Effective Email Lists for our Clients, with Paul Gowder
#106: They say "Theš°š°š°is in the list." Are you maximizing the potential of email lists and newsletters for your clients?
The importance of capturing listeners' email addresses can't be underestimated! Personalized welcome sequences ensure engagement and retention that eventually turns into a super-fan who will participate in whatever your client is offering.
Paul Gowder has been harnessing the power of newsletters for years - and comes on the show to share strategies for converting listeners into email subscribers.
Learn how to repurpose past podcast episodes into valuable content that can drive traffic and increase...
Is Consistency More Important Than a Great Show Format?
#105: What makes a podcast episode truly engaging - and keeps listeners coming back? The importance of maintaining a structured yet flexible format canāt be stressed enough by our guest, Wendy Wawrzyniak.
Our discussion, no matter which way we turned, ended up landing on one form of consistency or another. Consistency not only enhances a listenerās enjoyment but can also promote sustainability and growth.
Guess what: Consistency also benefits Podcast Editors like you too!
Key topics covered:
Why predictability in podcast formats keeps audiences engaged and builds communityThe role of podcast edit...HELP! I hired the Wrong Client!
#104: What are the consequences of hiring the wrong client? What if you need to make money but don't have any good clients yet? Do you start with UpWork or Fiverr?
Ashley Dickerson-Ellison shares some great stories about leaving her teaching job when they moved overseas for a couple years. She starting her podcast editing business and did what many of us do: Offered services on UpWork.
Make sure you stay to the end for the story about the guy who interrupted her trip, then came back and asked if she had references. It's a horrible...
What's CRITICAL for a Podcast in 2025?
#103: The word for 2024 in podcasting was "CHANGE". We had the rise of AI, the increasing importance of video, and key industry leaders leaving their roles.
Podcast Editors Club members emphasized the need to sound natural and not scripted, navigate the complications of offering video editing, and the significance of knowing how to use dynamic ad insertion.
We particularly highlight the importance of staying adaptable and diversifying income streams to maintain staying power. Podcast Editors like you can enhance your value by offering SEO services, collateral for social media, and media host management. Most importantly, Podcast...
Welcome to the Podcast Editors Mastermind Show Season 2!
You are a podcast editor, otherwise why are you listening to this show?
You wanna know how to make it as a podcast editor, whether professionally, or as a serious side hustle, or if you just want to get better at editing your own podcast.
If you're a Podcast Editor, Manager, or Producer...this is the show for you!
And since you're a Podcast Editor/Manager/Producer, I don't need to tell you how to follow this show in your favorite podcast app š.
However, to stay in touch with other information tha...
The 2024 Podcast Editor Industry Survey REVEAL!!! š
#102: Are you charging enough?
Do you charge more or less than your peers?
What can you do to earn more for your podcast editing efforts?
Find out as we reveal the rates and effective hourly rates being charged by indie podcasters just like you!
Episode Notes: https://podcasteditorsmastermind.com/episode/the-2024-podcast-editor-industry-survey-reveal-
Key Discussion Points
Editors charged $199 USD for an average hour-long episodeThey spent less time to complete the task, making their effective hourly average rate higher!We also discuss which additional services seem to impact what editors...What's New for Season 2 of the Podcast Editors Mastermind Show
#101: The Podcast Editors Mastermind Show has entered a new season.
In this episode. Steve Stewart and Mark Deal lay out for you whatās new in Season 2.
We share what the show will be about, the benefits for all Podcast Editors everywhere, and how YOU can be involved!
Episode Notes: https://podcasteditorsmastermind.com/episode/whats-new-for-season-2-of-the-podcast-editors-mastermind-show
This episode of the Podcast Editors Mastermind was edited by Steve Stewart. Why? Because it's been years since he has podcasted and needed to review his performance. #experiencepoints
This podcast us...
Podcasting: What we did right...and not-so-right, in 100 episodes
Episode #100!!! Celebrate with us in this milestone Mastermind Show!
Yeti Bryan and Yeti Jennifer reflect on what we got right, what could have been done better, and things that were "not so good".
Joining us is Steve Stewart and Mark Deal from the Podcast Editor Academy - WITH A BIG ANNOUNCEMENT!
We are wrapping up Season 1 of the Podcast Editors Mastermind Show, and Season 2 will be hosted by Steve & Mark (with appearances from the founders too, of course).
Key Discussion Points
The story behind how the Mastermind startedYear 1 and Year 2...Keys to Helping Podcast Clients Look and Sound GREAT!
Are your podcast clients getting bad audio and video from themselves or their guests? We share tips on how to address the issue, whether you're there to help them or not.
Episode Notes: https://podcasteditorsmastermind.com/episode/keys-to-helping-podcast-clients-look-and-sound-great
Follow the Podcast Editors MastermindRate or Review the Podcast Editors MastermindSend us a message or comment for the show!We're sharing some of the keys to helping your podcast clients sound and look great. It might feel uncomfortable initially, but it offers great benefits for your clients, their audience, and you.
We'll explore how...
Starting Over from Square Two as a Proven Podcast Editor
Carrie, Bryan, and Jennifer talk about succeeding in a competitive market. They discuss how to handle geeky clients and the use of AI in podcasting.
Episode Notes: https://podcasteditorsmastermind.com/episode/starting-over-from-square-two-as-a-proven-podcast-editor
Follow the Podcast Editors MastermindRate or Review the Podcast Editors MastermindSend us a message or comment for the show!We're diving deep into the business side of podcast editingāthe gritty, no-nonsense reality behind the glamorous facade. Carrie Caulfield is sharing advice on how to attract the perfect, slightly nerdy but passionate client who wants to learn about podcasting. She's no fairy go...
Is Video the Big Gamechanger Podcast Editors Hope For?
It seems like everybody is talking about video in the podcasting space. Is it worth it? How should we help our clients set their expectations? Listen for more!
Episode Notes: https://podcasteditorsmastermind.com/episode/is-video-the-big-gamechanger-podcast-editors-hope-for
Follow the Podcast Editors MastermindRate or Review the Podcast Editors MastermindSend us a message or comment for the show!Rick Sellnow from Lexington Public Library will talk about video podcasts, including the importance of quality, using platforms like YouTube, Instagram Reels, and TikTok, and managing costs and time.
We'll also answer a fun AI-generated question: If you...
Speed Up Your Podcast Editing Without Sacrificing Quality Or Sanity
Podcast editors need to work smarter, not harder. We dive into tools, templates, and tips (like multiple monitors) to make your podcast editing process easier and faster.
Episode Notes: https://podcasteditorsmastermind.com/episode/speed-up-your-podcast-editing-without-sacrificing-quality-or-sanity
Follow the Podcast Editors MastermindRate or Review the Podcast Editors MastermindSend us a message or comment for the show!Podcast Editors, are you looking for ways to speed up your editing process? If so, you're inluck because that's what we're talking about.
I know... we asked the question and then answered it. Weird, right? :)
In any...
Adobe Lawsuit, AI Considerations, Editing Software
Curious about Adobeās AI controversy? Wondering how the FTC's suit might impact your subscriptions? Join us as we discuss how these (and more) might affect podcast editors and their clients.
Episode Notes: https://podcasteditorsmastermind.com/episode/adobe-lawsuit-ai-considerations-editing-software
As podcast editors, our clients rely on us to stay informed about industry news to prevent errors and missteps. But it seems like there's always something new to stay on top of. And most of the news sources are aimed towards podcasters.
Join us as Jennifer and Bryan discuss some of the recent announcements in th...
The Terminology Survival Guide for Podcast Editors
Why do LUFS matter more than decibels for your podcast? Unpack the difference and a lot more as we explain the crazy jargon podcast editors need to know.
Episode Notes: https://podcasteditorsmastermind.com/episode/the-terminology-survival-guide-for-podcast-editors
Follow the Podcast Editors MastermindRate or Review the Podcast Editors MastermindSend us a message or comment for the show!You may not know this, but there's a TON of jargon in the podcasting space - especially for those of us who are involved in producing shows. Sometimes the words we use are clear and sometimes they may have multiple...
