How to Grow a Podcast Audience Without Making It About Yourself with Dave Campbell

Before You Start a Podcast, Hear This Advice!

What does it really take to start a podcast that survives beyond the first few episodes? In this episode of Podcast About Podcasting, Gabe Leal sits down with Super Dave, creator of The Anime Field Guide, to unpack the realities of launching, growing, and sustaining a podcast while balancing a full-time career. This isn't another conversation about buying expensive gear or chasing downloads. Instead, Super Dave shares the lessons he learned from launching his first podcast, burning out, stepping away, and eventually rebuilding a stronger show from the ground up. Together, Gabe and Dave explore what new podcasters often overlook: planning, consistency, networking, audience building, creative burnout, branding, and developing a podcast that fits your life instead of consuming it. Dave also reveals why personality matters more than niche, how he built a recognizable brand using free tools, and why success in podcasting comes from persistence—not perfection. Whether you're thinking about launching your first show or trying to revive a podcast that's losing momentum, this episode delivers practical advice from someone who's lived the journey. In This Episode ✅ Why you should start a podcast—and when you shouldn't ✅ How to validate your podcast idea before recording Episode 1 ✅ Why most creators underestimate the time commitment of podcasting ✅ The truth about audio gear and podcast quality on a budget ✅ Building confidence as an interview host and overcoming awkward conversations ✅ What Super Dave learned from shutting down and relaunching his podcast ✅ Why consistency beats chasing viral growth ✅ Networking, community building, and finding podcast guests ✅ How to avoid podcast burnout and stay motivated long-term Key Takeaway "The audience isn't just showing up for your topic—they're showing up for you." One of the most powerful lessons from this conversation is that podcast growth isn't built on perfect equipment or viral moments. It's built through authenticity, consistency, and developing a unique voice that listeners trust and return to week after week. Have a Question? Leave us a text or voicemail. We would love to hear from you. [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2607099/fan_mail/new] Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2607099/support] THE PODCAST ABOUT PODCASTING A weekly interview show answering the only question that matters before you start — why should you do a podcast? New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday. SUBSCRIBE Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/podcast-about-podcasting-with-gabe-leal/id1890063067  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2mFSFuT6n3R26Xm28h9Qbd?si=92a9db77895f4521 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PodcastAboutPodcastingwithGabe FOLLOW THE SHOW Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heygabewhatsup/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heygabewhatsup/ Substack: https://substack.com/@heygabewhatsup SEND GABE A MESSAGE podcastaboutpodcasting@gmail.com --- If this episode hit — share it with one person who keeps almost starting. That's who this show is for.

"From Print to Podcasting: A Media Journey Built on Storytelling That Connects with Cindy Mich.”

From Print to Podcasting: A Media Journey Built on Storytelling That Connects with Cindy Mich In this episode of Podcast About Podcasting, Gabe Leal sits down with award-winning journalist, media personality, filmmaker, publisher, and podcast host Cindy Mich for a powerful conversation about storytelling, resilience, media evolution, and finding your voice through podcasting. With a career spanning journalism, radio, television, filmmaking, publishing, and podcasting, Cindy shares how podcasting unexpectedly became one of the most authentic and impactful platforms in her creative journey. From launching conversations that matter to building a listening audience of over 205,000 people, Cindy explains why podcasting remains one of the most accessible and meaningful mediums for creators today. This conversation explores what it means to build authentic media in a world driven by algorithms, why every interview guest deserves to be treated like a celebrity, and how creators can overcome fear, grief, self-doubt, and burnout while continuing to share stories that resonate with people. Cindy also opens up emotionally about loss, healing through creativity, and turning personal grief into storytelling through her upcoming short film project. Whether you’re an aspiring podcaster, filmmaker, writer, journalist, or creator trying to discover your voice, this episode is packed with wisdom, encouragement, and practical insight for building something meaningful that lasts. In This Episode, We Discuss: Why podcasting is one of the easiest and most accessible creative mediums How Cindy Mich transitioned from print journalism into podcasting Why “every interviewee is a celebrity” The importance of authentic conversations and strong interviewing skills Building an audience from zero in a crowded podcasting space Why podcasting should never feel like a chore Handling criticism, feedback, and audience expectations The business side of podcasting and media creation Grief, healing, and continuing creative work after loss The role storytelling plays in helping others through difficult seasons How networking opens doors in podcasting and media Cindy’s advice for aspiring podcasters afraid to start The importance of research, preparation, and audience engagement Upcoming projects including Elegant Expressions Magazine, Sin’s Chat Corner, film festival work, and Cindy’s upcoming short film Memorable Quotes “Every interviewee is a celebrity.” “If you want to make a difference, podcasting is a great outlet for you.” “Never too old. Never too inexperienced. Never giving up.” “When your heart is broken, sometimes you feel like you have nothing to say.” About Cindy Mich Cindy Mich is an award-winning journalist, media personality, filmmaker, publisher, podcaster, and founder of the independent film festival Art is Alive, now in its seventh year. She is the creator and host of Sin’s Chat Corner, a podcast and television platform focused on candid conversations, storytelling, arts, media, and human connection. Cindy is also the publisher and managing editor of Elegant Expressions Magazine and has built a listening audience of more than 205,000 listeners through her work in podcasting and media. Follow Cindy Mich on Instagram: @officialcindymich Connect With Podcast About Podcasting Hosted by Gabe Leal, Podcast About Podcasting explores the real stories, lessons, failures, and breakthroughs behind building a podcast and finding your voice as a creator. If this episode inspired you, share it with a fellow podcaster, filmmaker, journalist, storyteller, or aspiring creator who needs encouragement to finally hit record. 🎧 Follow, rate, and subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts. Have a Question? Leave us a text or voicemail. We would love to hear from you. [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2607099/fan_mail/new] Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2607099/support] THE PODCAST ABOUT PODCASTING A weekly interview show answering the only question that matters before you start — why should you do a podcast? New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday. SUBSCRIBE Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/podcast-about-podcasting-with-gabe-leal/id1890063067  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2mFSFuT6n3R26Xm28h9Qbd?si=92a9db77895f4521 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PodcastAboutPodcastingwithGabe FOLLOW THE SHOW Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heygabewhatsup/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heygabewhatsup/ Substack: https://substack.com/@heygabewhatsup SEND GABE A MESSAGE podcastaboutpodcasting@gmail.com --- If this episode hit — share it with one person who keeps almost starting. That's who this show is for.

How to Grow a Podcast Audience Without Making It About Yourself with Dave Campbell

Focus on Your Audience, Not Yourself with Dave Campbell What does it actually take to build a podcast people care about? In this episode of Podcast About Podcasting, Gabe Leal sits down with podcaster, creator, and community builder Dave Campbell for a deep conversation about sustainable podcasting, audience connection, and why podcast growth has less to do with algorithms… and more to do with people. Dave shares lessons learned from producing over 2,000 podcast episodes across 9 different shows, including why most creators struggle after the first few episodes and how new podcasters can build momentum without getting trapped chasing downloads and vanity metrics. This conversation dives into the emotional side of podcasting, the importance of community, and why serving even one listener can completely change someone’s life. Whether you’re thinking about starting a podcast, struggling to stay consistent, or trying to grow your audience the right way, this episode is packed with practical insights and encouragement for creators at every stage. In This Episode, We Discuss: Why podcasting still has massive opportunity in 2026 How to identify and serve your ideal audience The mindset shift that helps creators stay consistent Why most podcasters quit after only a few episodes Building sustainable podcast workflows and systems How to overcome fear of self-promotion Why podcast growth is about depth, not just numbers The importance of community in content creation Dave Campbell’s approach to managing 9 podcasts The power of impact over analytics Memorable Quote from Dave Campbell “You can count the number of seeds in an apple… but you can’t count the number of apples in a seed.” About Dave Campbell Dave Campbell is a podcast host, creator, and educator focused on helping people start and sustain meaningful podcasts. Through his multiple shows and podcasting community, Dave encourages creators to remove the fear, gatekeeping, and perfectionism that often stop people from sharing their voice. Learn more about Dave Campbell, his podcasts, community meetups, and podcasting resources at: HowToPodcast.ca Connect With Podcast About Podcasting Hosted by Gabe Leal, Podcast About Podcasting explores the real stories, lessons, failures, and breakthroughs behind building a podcast and finding your voice as a creator. If this episode brought you value, share it with a fellow podcaster, creator, or aspiring beginner thinking about starting their show. 🎧 Follow, rate, and subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts. Have a Question? Leave us a text or voicemail. We would love to hear from you. [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2607099/fan_mail/new] Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2607099/support] THE PODCAST ABOUT PODCASTING A weekly interview show answering the only question that matters before you start — why should you do a podcast? New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday. SUBSCRIBE Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/podcast-about-podcasting-with-gabe-leal/id1890063067  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2mFSFuT6n3R26Xm28h9Qbd?si=92a9db77895f4521 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PodcastAboutPodcastingwithGabe FOLLOW THE SHOW Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heygabewhatsup/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heygabewhatsup/ Substack: https://substack.com/@heygabewhatsup SEND GABE A MESSAGE podcastaboutpodcasting@gmail.com --- If this episode hit — share it with one person who keeps almost starting. That's who this show is for.

Your Podcast Will Suck at First (That’s Normal) with Heather Herington

Your Podcast Will Suck at First (That’s Normal) | Heather Herington | Episode 15 Most new podcasters think they need the perfect setup, perfect strategy, or perfect first episode before they can finally start. But the truth is… Every creator starts messy. In Episode 15 of Podcast About Podcasting, Gabe Leal sits down with Heather Herrington, host of Hot Mess Espresso, for an honest conversation about what it really feels like to build a podcast in public. This episode explores: * Why most new podcasters struggle with perfectionism * How to overcome the fear of publishing * the emotional side of podcasting * creator burnout and overwhelm * sustainable podcast growth * Why authenticity matters more than sounding polished * learning to fail forward as a content creator * how small creators can stay consistent long enough to improve Heather shares her experience growing Hot Mess Espresso, what she’s learned after publishing over 100 episodes, and why creators need to stop waiting until they feel “ready.” If you’re: * starting a podcast * building a YouTube channel * creating content online * struggling with consistency * or afraid your content isn’t good enough yet… this episode is for you. Because every successful creator started as a beginner. ⸻ Follow Heather Herington & Hot Mess Espresso: Instagram: @hotmess.espresso @heather.herington Listen to Hot Mess Espresso on Apple Podcasts & Spotify Business & guest inquiries: [team@hotmessespressopodcast.com](mailto:team@hotmessespressopodcast.com) ⸻ Subscribe to Podcast About Podcasting with Gabe Leal for real conversations about: * podcast growth * creator psychology * content strategy * audience building * creator business * YouTube growth * podcast discoverability * and building a brand people actually care about. #Podcasting #PodcastGrowth #ContentCreation #CreatorEconomy #PersonalBranding #YouTubeGrowth Have a Question? Leave us a text or voicemail. We would love to hear from you. [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2607099/fan_mail/new] Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2607099/support] THE PODCAST ABOUT PODCASTING A weekly interview show answering the only question that matters before you start — why should you do a podcast? New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday. SUBSCRIBE Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/podcast-about-podcasting-with-gabe-leal/id1890063067  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2mFSFuT6n3R26Xm28h9Qbd?si=92a9db77895f4521 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PodcastAboutPodcastingwithGabe FOLLOW THE SHOW Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heygabewhatsup/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heygabewhatsup/ Substack: https://substack.com/@heygabewhatsup SEND GABE A MESSAGE podcastaboutpodcasting@gmail.com --- If this episode hit — share it with one person who keeps almost starting. That's who this show is for.

“Why Most Podcasts Stay Invisible (And How to Fix It)” with John Taylor

Most podcasters think their problem is consistency. It’s not. Their real problem?  Nobody can find them. In this episode, Gabe sits down with podcast agency owner John Taylor to break down: *  why most podcasts never get discovered  *  how AI search is changing podcast growth  *  why niche creators outperform broad creators  *  why YouTube is actually a search engine  *  how small podcasts generate massive business results  *  the real role podcasting plays in a marketing ecosystem  John also explains: *  why “helpful content” often fails  *  how discoverability ecosystems work  *  why podcasters misunderstand branding  *  the hidden power of differentiation  *  and why being “for everyone” kills audience growth  If you’re building a podcast, YouTube channel, creator business, or personal brand…  this conversation will completely change how you think about growth. Have a Question? Leave us a text or voicemail. We would love to hear from you. [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2607099/fan_mail/new] Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2607099/support] THE PODCAST ABOUT PODCASTING A weekly interview show answering the only question that matters before you start — why should you do a podcast? New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday. SUBSCRIBE Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/podcast-about-podcasting-with-gabe-leal/id1890063067  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2mFSFuT6n3R26Xm28h9Qbd?si=92a9db77895f4521 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PodcastAboutPodcastingwithGabe FOLLOW THE SHOW Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heygabewhatsup/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heygabewhatsup/ Substack: https://substack.com/@heygabewhatsup SEND GABE A MESSAGE podcastaboutpodcasting@gmail.com --- If this episode hit — share it with one person who keeps almost starting. That's who this show is for.