In Case You Missed It… Join us for an engaging chat with James Cridland, the brilliant mind from Brisbane behind Podnews. With his rich background in radio, James has become a prominent figure in the podcasting world since 2017. Discover how he transitioned from radio to podcasting, and the clever strategies he employs to produce daily content without losing his creative spark. James offers an insider's perspective on the role of AI in the podcasting industry, comparing it to past technological shifts in radio, and argues that while AI can be a powerful creative ally, misuse can lead to lackluster content. Our conversation takes a whimsical turn as we explore the global reach of podcast advertising and the unexpected moments that make this industry so unique. From the amusing story of receiving a newspaper a day late in Jamaica to the charming Australian expression "Have a great rest of yesterday," James and I celebrate the cultural quirks that enhance our shared experiences. We reflect on the universality of podcasting, the joy of connecting across continents, and the delightful nuances of language that bring us all closer together. This episode promises a delightful mix of industry insight, heartfelt stories, and cultural connections that will leave you both informed and entertained. James Cridland on LinkedIn Podnews.net theanycast.com/s2e10…

Matt Levine chats with James Cridland, a radio veteran and the mind behind Podnews, a daily podcast and newsletter covering the podcasting industry. With over 1,930 podcast episodes and newsletters, James shares his insights on why audio is still king, even as podcasts with video gain traction. They discuss the real advantage of audio, how podcasting thrives as the ultimate multitasking medium, and why time spent listening matters more than audience size. James starts by explaining how radio and podcasting are fundamentally different. James shares how he managed to sustain a daily podcast and newsletter for over 1930 episodes. He reveals the systems and tricks he’s developed to automate the boring stuff so he can focus on what truly matters. The one thing that will make podcasting sustainable for you. It’s not about working harder—it’s about removing friction and maximizing creative energy. James on the shortcuts that make podcasting easier over time. When you’ve done something long enough, you naturally find the fastest, most effective way to get the job done. Why James started podcasting and writing a daily newsletter. He shares what drew him to both and why they’ve remained central to his work. Podcast growth vs. newsletter growth—how do they compare? James breaks down the trajectory of both and some surprising stats about their long-term trends. James on why slow, steady podcast growth is actually a good thing. Rapid growth can kill a medium, but a strong foundation makes all the difference. Matt and James discuss the state of podcasting today. They cover how the industry has evolved and where it’s headed next. James reveals why focusing on time spent listening matters more than audience size. The goal of every podcast should be getting people to spend as much time listening to podcasts rather than focusing on increasing the size of the audience. What is the best way to grow the podcasting industry? According to James, it’s not just about getting more listeners—it’s about getting current listeners to engage more deeply. Matt shares his thoughts on what podcasters are really competing for. It’s not downloads, subscribers, or ad dollars—it’s attention. James on the one advantage podcasting has over every other medium--podcasting is the original multitasking medium. Unlike YouTube, Netflix, or TikTok, podcasts let you consume content while doing other things. How to actually build an audience that sticks with you. James believes mass-market podcasts struggle—niche audiences are where you win. James and Matt cover the key to keeping listeners coming back. Consistency in release time and frequency builds habits, and breaking that habit makes it easy to lose an audience. Is YouTube really the best platform for podcasts? James explains why it’s overhyped—and what the numbers really say. How James decides which podcasting stories and news to highlight. His process for sifting through the noise and finding what truly matters. Podcast consumption—how does the US compare globally? James shares surprising insights on where podcasting is growing fastest and where monetization is harder. Matt and James discuss why US content isn’t dominating globally. In the UK, for example, only two US shows make the top 25 podcasts. AI and podcasting—should creators be worried? James sees AI as a tool that can create both terrible and amazing content—it’s all about how you use it. James’ best advice for new podcasters: Pick a niche, stay consistent, and don’t expect overnight success. He adds, “It's much easier to focus on a niche than it is to launch another Joe Rogan experience, which is why there isn't another Joe Rogan out there.” Why you should start your podcast today, even if you feel unprepared. No one listens to your first episode unless you want them to—so just get started. Mentioned in This Episode: James Cridland on LinkedIn Podnews.net theanycast.com/s2e10…

Full episode launches on April 24

In Case You Missed It… Christoph Grasser, an audio virtuoso with a diverse background in engineering, music, and production, takes center stage to share his remarkable journey with us. From blending rock and metal concerts to orchestrating German Schlager stars' tours, Chris's career path is as eclectic as it is inspiring. Now leading the strategy at Alphonic, a cutting-edge audio post-production tool, Chris reveals how his passion for sound and desire for change aligned perfectly with the company's mission. His transition from a podcast lurker to a key player in the podcasting world is a tale of serendipity and ambition, as he now crafts an innovative toolbox for content creators seeking pristine audio. In this engaging conversation, Chris unveils his intrinsic motivation to elevate audio standards and his role in shaping Alphonic's strategic direction. We uncover the meticulous attention he brings from his days behind the soundboard and how that experience fuels his drive to perfect the auditory experience for content creators worldwide. Chris' story is one that resonates with anyone who believes in the power of sound to captivate and communicate. Tune in to glean insights from a seasoned audio engineer who knows how to make every note sing and every word resonate. Auphonic.com Christoph Grasser on LinkedIn Pryne.org Pryne Band on Instagram theanycast.com/s2e9…

Matt Levine sits down with Christoph Grasser, an audio engineer, musician, producer, and the head of strategy for Auphonic, an all-in-one audio post-production web tool. They discuss why finding a loyal niche audience is more valuable than chasing viral success, how to not let technical barriers kill your ideas, why most people still prefer audio podcasts, and how AI will make content creation more accessible. Chris starts by sharing his journey from supporting artists behind the scenes to becoming the head of strategy at Auphonic. Matt and Chris discuss why cleaning up audio is so satisfying. There’s a deep sense of fulfillment in taking raw, imperfect recordings and transforming them into something clear and professional. Chris’s #1 pet peeve in podcasting: poorly produced audio due to lack of effort. It’s not about having the most expensive gear—it’s about caring enough to make an effort. Chris explains why he gets frustrated when he hears podcasts with bad audio quality. The myth of the dying audio engineer—why AI and automation won’t replace them. Some people think that with AI tools, human audio engineers will become obsolete. Chris disagrees, explaining why technology can assist but not replace the ear, skill, and creative touch of a trained audio professional. Why most podcasters just want simplicity and getting content out matters more than perfection. Too many people with valuable stories never start a podcast because the technology seems overwhelming. Chris believes the real goal should be removing these barriers so that everyone can get their message out. Chris and Matt discuss the power of podcasting and why it’s one of the few art forms where creative independence still thrives. Unlike traditional media, podcasting doesn’t require approval from gatekeepers. Matt and Chris discuss how this freedom allows creators to experiment, find their voice, and connect with their audiences. Understand that not every podcast will blow up, and that’s okay. Your goal as a podcaster should be finding and serving your core fans who love what you do. Most podcasts won’t go viral, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t successful. Matt and Chris share how finding a loyal niche audience is often more valuable than trying to appeal to the masses. Chris on the unique element of podcasting: Unlike other media, podcasting creates an intimate connection between the speaker and the listener. This personal touch is what makes podcasts so powerful and enduring. In a world of AI-generated content and social media noise, people crave real, human interactions. Chris believes that the most successful podcasts in the future will be the ones that build genuine relationships with their audiences. Chris highlights why video podcasting is blowing up in the U.S. but still trailing in Europe. Learn how AI and better tools will lower the barrier to entry, making content creation easier than ever. Chris reveals what a new generation of podcast listeners wants, and how podcasters can serve younger audiences who are used to consuming content in quick, bite-sized clips. Why skill doesn’t equal popularity when it comes to podcasting—Matt and Chris share their thoughts on why some of the most talented creators go unnoticed, while others with less skill thrive. Success in the creative space is often more about marketing, timing, and audience connection than pure ability. The real reason top podcasts succeed. It’s not content quality, it’s marketing. Many of the biggest podcasts don’t have the best production or most insightful discussions. Chris explains how branding, consistency, and visibility often matter more than raw content quality. According to Matt, people don’t care if a YouTube video is in 4K or 1080p, but they do care if it’s blurry and unwatchable. Chris shares his thoughts on why the most extreme voices attract the biggest audiences. In today’s media landscape, anger and controversy generate more engagement than thoughtful discussion. Chris’s trick for getting the right answers online—just post the wrong answer. How AI is viewed differently in the U.S. vs. Europe. AI in podcasting: a tool or shortcut? AI can be a powerful assistant, but Chris believes using it to remove all effort from content creation leads to soulless, uninspired work. He believes effort and struggle are key parts of creativity. Chris’s advice for launching an audio career: Put yourself out there. No amount of theory or training can replace real-world experience. Mentioned in This Episode: Auphonic.com Christoph Grasser on LinkedIn Pryne.org Pryne Band on Instagram theanycast.com/s2e9…

Full episode launches on April 3

In Case You Missed It… Erica Mandy, the pioneering force behind The NewsWorthy podcast, joins us for a riveting conversation on her transformation from a traditional TV news reporter to a leading voice in podcasting. Erica opens up about her motivation to create a platform that offers news in a way that informs without inducing anxiety, setting herself apart with a warm, relatable delivery. She takes us through her journey of embracing podcasting's flexibility, revealing how this medium empowers her to deliver impactful content while navigating the complexities of building a business in a rapidly changing industry. Erica's story is a powerful testament to the potential of following one's passion in the evolving landscape of media. As we continue the discussion, Erica shares her insights on changing trends in news consumption and the exciting opportunities that podcasting presents. Her experience highlights the challenges and successes of innovating in a space where larger players are making their mark. With her unique perspective, Erica sheds light on the future of media consumption, offering listeners a refreshing alternative to conventional news. This episode promises to keep you engaged with Erica's inspiring journey and thoughtful observations on how news can be delivered with both impact and ease. TheNewsWorthy.com The NewsWorthy on Instagram EricaMandy.com theanycast.com/s2e8…

Matt Levine talks with Erica Mandy, Founder and Host of The NewsWorthy, an award-winning daily news podcast. They discuss Erica’s bold leap from TV news reporting to podcasting and why she felt compelled to create a more accessible, less anxiety-inducing way for people to stay informed. She shares the challenges of starting and growing a news podcast, how she curates engaging yet unbiased content, and the lessons she’s learned from releasing over 1,000 episodes. Erica starts by explaining why she left TV news for podcasting. She wanted to create a better way for people to stay informed—one that didn’t rely on anxiety-inducing breaking news alerts or require hours of daily commitment. Why was podcasting the perfect fit? Unlike TV or print, podcasts let people listen on their own time—during a commute, while cooking, or even at the gym—making news more accessible. Erica shares how she overcame the fear of competition. She acknowledges that new podcasters often worry about competition, but she believes multiple voices can coexist, each bringing something unique to the table. Matt breaks down the biggest myth in entrepreneurship. People think an idea is the most valuable asset in a business, but in reality, execution determines success. Even a world-changing idea is worthless without action. Erica and Matt discuss what it’s like to be underestimated. She opens up about being doubted throughout the first months of launching a podcast and how she turned skepticism into motivation to succeed. Matt and Erica discuss the role of AI in podcasting. AI can streamline parts of the podcasting process, but it’s still just a tool, not a replacement for human creativity. Why AI isn’t ready to replace human storytelling. Erica believes AI can assist with production, but it lacks the depth, nuance, and emotional intelligence needed to create engaging content from scratch. The secret to making a podcast feel personal – listeners connect with hosts who feel and sound real. For Erica, a successful show isn’t just about downloads. It’s about engagement. Erica prioritizes interacting with listeners, gathering feedback, and making them feel heard. Erica breaks down the news curation process—how she picks what to cover – With so much happening daily, her key filter is: Does this story impact my listener? If it doesn’t, it’s not worth including. Erica’s goal isn’t just to update people—it’s to offer multiple perspectives, avoid bias, and ensure the news feels trustworthy. Erica and Matt discuss the challenge of capturing attention without clickbait. While sensationalism dominates the media, Erica believes you can be engaging without sacrificing integrity. Matt and Erica agree that extreme voices dominate social media. Algorithms reward outrage. Controversy keeps people engaged—even if they disagree—so the loudest, most divisive figures often rise to the top. Matt argues that media companies rely on polarizing pundits because conflict drives engagement, making society more divided than ever. News fatigue is real—two-thirds of Americans are burned out by news. Constant negativity has made many people disengage from current events. Looking back on 1,000+ episodes, Erica reflects on how her show has changed over time and what she’s learned since episode one. Why practicing in private matters – Before launching publicly, Erica sought feedback from close friends and family. Testing and refining early on gave her the confidence to succeed. Erica shares the reality of running a podcast as a business. The theory of starting a show is exciting, but actually growing and sustaining a podcast brand is a different challenge altogether. Why a little naivety can be helpful in business. If you knew everything before starting, you might be too afraid to take the leap. Erica believes that sometimes, blind optimism can be a good thing. The U.S. leads in entrepreneurship—until age 31, when rates drop sharply. According to Matt, a key reason could be that that’s when most people have kids, making risk-taking harder. The power of delegation—learning to let go. Every hire takes over a job you once did. Letting go of control can be tough, but it’s crucial for growth. Understand that hiring is not a cost—it’s an investment. Erica’s parenting advice—research, but trust your gut: No amount of reading can fully prepare you. Whether it’s raising a child or running a business, sometimes you just have to trust yourself. Mentioned in This Episode: TheNewsWorthy.com The NewsWorthy on Instagram EricaMandy.com theanycast.com/s2e8…

Full episode launches on March 13

In Case You Missed It… Chris Penn, the pioneering mind behind TrustInsights.ai and a leading figure in AI analytics, shares his captivating journey through the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence. From his early days in IT to his groundbreaking work with machine learning and generative AI, Chris offers a wealth of insights that illuminate the rapid advancements and future potential of AI technology. His firsthand experiences with transformative models like the GPT-J6B and insights on generative AI's promising trajectory make this a must-listen for anyone eager to understand AI's burgeoning role in our world. Join us as Chris paints an intriguing picture of where we stand in the technological timeline, emphasizing that despite decades of foundational technology, we are merely scratching the surface of AI's potential. With major players like Anthropic, Google, and OpenAI shaping the landscape, Chris explores the exciting possibilities and challenges that lie ahead. He candidly addresses the complexities and untapped power of AI, urging listeners to grasp its capabilities and future implications. For those looking to stay ahead in the tech world, his thoughts on this unfolding story of artificial intelligence are invaluable. Christopher Penn on LinkedIn TrustInsights.ai theanycast.com/s2e7…

Matt Levine sits down with Christopher Penn, the Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist at TrustInsights.ai. They discuss why we’re underusing AI, the biases holding us back, and how to embrace AI’s strengths for practical applications. Christopher shares insights on AI's role in content creation, the future of AGI, and how creatives can stay ahead in an AI-driven world. Chris starts by explaining why AI is here to stay. Even if the major players like OpenAI disappear, AI's capabilities will remain a core part of our future. Matt and Chris discuss how people can learn to overcome AI skepticism. Matt explains that the fear of AI making mistakes is what’s holding us back. Learn how to adopt a mindset that embraces its strengths over its imperfections. Chris highlights the real reason we’re underusing generative AI today. What makes AI adoption challenging? Matt explains how humans expect perfection from AI despite it just being “better” than us in many areas. He explains how embracing "better" over "perfect" can unlock AI’s potential. Matt and Chris agree that public skepticism grows because of how AI's mistakes are magnified by the media. You never hire full-time employees for something unimportant. You always hire for the critically important things. According to Chris, the one thing that will elevate AI in society is humans learning to use it beyond simple tasks like writing blogs. Chris shares practical ways generative AI can be leveraged in healthcare, education, and societal planning. Chris’s view on why we’re far from AGI. Despite fears about sentient AI, Chris explains that quantum computing is not yet ready for the challenge. Regression AI is an excellent tool for transforming complex data into actionable insights. However, Chris warns about its limits in unpredictable scenarios like elections. Understand that every profession that has humans working in it has human biases. Learn how AI-generated data can improve training models. Chris explains that initial machine-generated data is cleaner and less biased than much of the internet. What biases mean for AI training data. Chris and Matt discuss how AI consuming its own generated content can create feedback loops. Chris reveals why the current tools for detecting AI-generated content are unreliable. The skills you need to protect your career in the AI age. Matt and Chris cover what creatives and podcasters can do to stay relevant and get the most out of generative AI. While AI content isn’t Pulitzer-worthy, Matt notes it’s good enough for low-quality tasks. Humans are bad at rapid change, but are very good at gradual change. Chris’s advice for practical AI implementation: Every profession has biases, and AI reflects them. Learn how to use AI thoughtfully while addressing inherent human prejudices. Matt explains that expecting AI to be perfect misses the point—it’s meant to amplify, not replace, human ability. Adopting this view lets you leverage AI more effectively. The surprising power of classification AI. For Chris, this form of AI organizes massive datasets, making it invaluable for industries overwhelmed by information. Mentioned in This Episode: Christopher Penn on LinkedIn TrustInsights.ai theanycast.com/s2e7…

Full episode launches on February 20

In Case You Missed It… Podcasting icon Rob Greenlee takes us on a captivating journey through the evolution of podcasting, sharing his unique insights from over two decades in the industry. From his early beginnings in radio in 1999 to working with giants like Microsoft, Rob gives us a front-row seat to the innovations that have shaped podcast distribution. He delves into the shift from purely audio-based RSS feeds toward a modern landscape where video content is increasingly central. Challenging the norms of traditional commercial radio, Rob stresses the importance of putting audiences before advertisers, a philosophy that keeps the medium fresh and audience-focused. We explore how the definition of podcast continues to expand, adapting to consumer perceptions and technology. As we dive deeper, we talk about why the human element is the soul of great content. It's not just about the tech, it's about creating experiences that truly resonate with listeners. Rob underscores a commitment to crafting meaningful, engaging, and educational content that stands the test of time. The conversation wraps up with a powerful call to action for content creators: Let's keep the essence of the human experience at the heart of our podcasts, ensuring that what captivates and informs our audiences never fades away. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about podcasting and the future of content creation. Rob Greenlee on LinkedIn Podcast Tips with Rob Greenlee theanycast.com/s2e6…

Matt Levine talks with podcasting legend Rob Greenlee to discuss content creation in the age of AI. They discuss the growing influence of video in podcasting, short-form versus long-form content, and how to stand out in an increasingly competitive podcasting landscape. Tune in to hear practical advice on creating content, building authentic connections, and embracing the AI-driven fourth industrial revolution! Rob Greenlee is a podcasting pioneer who was inducted into the Podcast Hall of Fame in 2017. Learn how his journey from radio in 1999 shaped the modern podcasting industry. Rob shares how the core of podcasting hasn't changed since 2004, but there are subtle evolutions reshaping the future. Rob reflects on the early resistance to ads in podcasts. He reveals why he was called a "sellout" for monetizing his show and how attitudes have shifted. How short-form and long-form content came to coexist in the podcast ecosystem. Rob discusses why both formats continue to thrive in the attention economy. Rob breaks down how the difference between commercial radio's advertiser-first mindset and podcasting's audience-first approach. Video is the future of podcasting. Learn how leveraging platforms like YouTube can amplify your reach and attract your ideal audience. Matt and Rob try to define what a podcast really is. They discuss how podcasts evolved from audio-only to include video, music, books, and more. Matt and Rob discuss the next revolution in media consumption. Find out how AI and platforms like YouTube will reshape content discovery. Matt and Rob explore how new podcasters can stand out in a content environment where millions of shows already exist. Rob’s content prediction: YouTube will become the largest search engine in the world. And the reason for that is that people will increasingly be able to access media. Rob believes human intelligence is far more superior than anything AI will ever have. Yes, AI has a big library of information, but it doesn't have the intelligence that humans have. According to Matt, many people will lose jobs to AI. The good news is that technology has always created more jobs. They're not identical jobs, but they're usually higher-paying jobs. Rob’s advice for people using AI for content creation: don’t use AI for everything; only use it for what it's good at. Rob talks about the future of radio and what the data says about radio listeners: radio is a declining medium. It’s increasingly becoming irrelevant. No market ever gets to 100%. For Rob, there will always be some percentage of the population that won’t listen to a podcast because they’re maybe too old or too young. Matt shares his thoughts on how creators can use AI to enhance, not replace, their content creation process. Rob explains how AI could solve complex global challenges--but its potential depends on human guidance and ethical implementation. Learn how to adapt to the AI-driven fourth industrial revolution. Matt and Rob discuss why embracing this transformation is key to staying relevant. Matt and Rob agree that AI isn't just a tool but a transformational technology. Rob compares its impact to the invention of electricity. Rob and Matt reveal simple strategies to extend your content's reach and ways to repurpose your content for maximum impact. Rob talks about the death of radio. Learn why radio is losing relevance and how podcasting is filling the gap for modern listeners--discover what this shift means for your content strategy. Rob explains why relationship-building is essential for podcasting success in the AI era. He also covers the role of human connection in great marketing. Learn why podcasts are the perfect addition to your video-first marketing strategy. Rob shares tips for integrating audio and video seamlessly. Rob predicts the future of podcasting in the next five years. What to expect from the 2024 PodFest Expo: Hear key insights from one of the largest podcasting conferences. Find out what trends and tips are shaping the future of the industry. Mentioned in This Episode: Rob Greenlee on LinkedIn Podcast Tips with Rob Greenlee theanycast.com/s2e6…

Full episode launches on January 30