What is called a podcast has sparked more debate in our community than mic choices or interview styles. There’s a lot of confusion, and even controversy, around this seemingly simple question. And if you’ve been in the podcasting game for any amount of time, you’ve likely heard a dozen different definitions. According to WhatsAPodcast.com: podcast (noun) Episodic multimedia content that is downloadable via RSS (“really simple syndication”). A podcast can be audio or video. Yes, this is technically correct. But let’s be real. That doesn’t really explain what a podcast is in the way that matters to us as creators. A Podcast Is a Distribution Method, Not Just a “Show” At its core, a podcast is a show distributed via podcasting technology. Namely, RSS feeds. That’s it. The magic isn’t in the audio file or video format, It’s in how it gets to your audience. A podcast isn’t just a genre of content, it’s a method of delivery. That’s a crucial distinction we, as creators, need to understand…  Even if our audiences don’t. Listeners (or viewers, if it’s video) might never think twice about RSS. But we should. RSS is the backbone of podcasting. It allows for decentralized distribution, meaning no single company owns or controls where or how your content is accessed. That’s not a bug, it’s a feature. Why YouTube Isn’t a Podcast (And That’s Okay) There’s a common argument: “If I post my show on YouTube, that’s a podcast, right?” Well…  Not quite. A video uploaded to YouTube is a video. You might also be running a podcast that features the same content, but unless it’s distributed via RSS, it’s not technically a podcast. It's just another method of media distribution. And, There is NOTHING WRONG WITH THAT. There are many ways to distribute a show: TV or radio broadcast YouTube or other video platforms Embedded audio on a website Live streaming Podcasting via RSS The important thing is understanding what makes something a podcast: RSS-powered syndication that lets people subscribe (or follow) and receive new episodes automatically, in their preferred app, without being tied to any one platform. Why This Matters to Independent Creators You might ask, “Who cares if my content is called a podcast or not?” Well, as an independent creator, you should care… at least a little. RSS keeps podcasting open and democratic. It’s what allows your show to appear on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts, Overcast, and hundreds of other directories, all without being locked into a single ecosystem. When your content lives only on one platform, you’re at the mercy of that platform’s algorithm, terms of service, and monetization policies. With podcasting, you own your feed. That’s powerful. Use Podcasting as One Tool in Your Creator Toolkit Here’s the good news: You don’t have to choose just one path. You can distribute your content however you like. Record your live radio show? Great turn that into a podcast. Record a video for YouTube? Strip the audio and publish it as a podcast. Do a podcast? Add video and stream it live. Repurpose your content across channels. Just understand the distinctions. Podcasting is just one way to reach your audience. But it’s a way that gives you freedom, control, and ownership. And that’s why it’s worth preserving the true meaning of what a podcast is. A podcast isn’t defined by whether it’s audio or video, entertaining, educational or just plain stupid. It’s defined by how it’s distributed. Via RSS. Understanding that gives you more power as a content creator, not less. Keep creating. Keep sharing. And most importantly, keep owning your feed. HAPPY PODCASTING!

In episode 404 of "Mike Dell's World," titled "Missing People, Missing Time and Missing Podcasts," host Mike Dell opens by greeting listeners and noting the episode number's significance, linking it to the theme of being "not found" or "missing." He reflects on his absence since May 29 and shares personal experiences of loss. Mike addresses the passing of his father in December, which has left him feeling a sense of missingness, particularly as he takes on household responsibilities his father used to manage. He also shares the recent unexpected death of his cohost Todd Cochrane, which has thrown his company, Blubrry Podcasting, into turmoil. Mike recounts attending Todd's funeral, where many podcasting peers gathered to celebrate Todd’s life and legacy. He shares memories of attending Podcast Movement in Dallas with Todd and how their dynamic was central to the experience, highlighting the challenges he faces now without him. The episode then transitions into updates on Mike's life, including difficulties with time management, ongoing flight training, and personal projects around his home. He talks about the stress of caregiving and estate management for his family, as well as the trials of hauling campers and maintaining his mother's camper for friends. Mike also discusses his recent flight checkride and his experiences with repairing his truck, illustrating a hectic summer filled with both personal and emotional challenges. He mentions his plans for the upcoming winter, expressing hope for a more manageable snow removal routine. As he continues, Mike describes renovations he’s undertaking at home and reflects on the need to update his podcast more frequently, acknowledging his last episode was significantly delayed. He shares his intention to keep listeners engaged and updated about both his personal life and the progress of his other show, Podcast Insider, which is currently on hiatus. He concludes by thanking listeners for their support and asking them to stay tuned for future updates as he navigates the ongoing adjustments in his life, reaffirming the poignancy of the episode's theme of missingness. Mike wraps up the episode with a reminder of the ongoing journey of understanding loss and the changes it brings.

World 395 for November 8th 2023 Hello, everyone! Welcome to another episode of Mike Dell's World, where we explore the fascinating corners of technology and its impact on our daily lives. I’m your host, Mike Dell, and today, we're delving into the intriguing world of Artificial Intelligence, or AI, and its increasing role in the podcasting universe. Podcasting has always been about the human connection—voices in our ears, telling stories, sharing knowledge, and sparking conversations. But as technology advances, AI is becoming an integral part of this audio experience. It's transforming how we create, distribute, and even listen to podcasts. So, buckle up as we take a quick dive into this tech evolution! First off, let's talk about content creation. AI is now assisting podcasters in scripting, with tools that help in writing more engaging and SEO-friendly content. Imagine having an AI co-writer that suggests topics based on trending data or even helps to fine-tune your language for better clarity and impact. Then there's the production side of things. AI-driven software can now mix and master audio files, balance levels, and even remove background noise, making the editing process faster and more accessible to podcasters of all skill levels. Distribution has seen a revolution too. AI algorithms are the backbone of recommendation engines on podcast platforms, helping listeners find your show among the millions out there. And if you're worried about discoverability, AI can optimize your podcast metadata to ensure you're hitting the right keywords and phrases. Now, let's get into the listening experience. Ever used a smart speaker to play your favorite podcast? That's AI in action, folks! Voice recognition allows listeners to search and play podcasts effortlessly. And it doesn't stop there—AI is even enabling real-time translation and transcription, breaking down language barriers and making podcasts accessible to a global audience. But with all these advancements, it's essential to remember the heart of podcasting—the storytellers, the educators, the entertainers. AI is a powerful tool, but it's the human touch that truly connects with listeners. As podcasters, we can harness AI to elevate our craft, but let's not forget the art of storytelling that makes podcasting so special. So, what's your take on AI in podcasting? Are you excited about these new tools, or do you have concerns about the role of AI in a medium so deeply personal? Drop me a line, and let's start a conversation. That’s all for today's episode. Thanks for tuning in to Mike Dell's World. Be sure to subscribe for more discussions on technology, life, and the space in between. Until next time, keep on casting! As you can tell, this is an AI version of my voice. I will be back in person tomorrow with another episode for Na Pod Po Mo.

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Well, I made it!  300 episodes.  I was a bit under the weather so I didn't do the episode on New Years.  I was sleeping trying to get rid of a cold or blowing and shoveling snow. I'm not going to write a lot of show notes for this one.   Just listen to it for a few surprises.  Here is to another 300!  

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn I talk about moving the snow out of the driveway and what's coming up on MDW, Fast Food History and Podcast Help Desk in the first week of 2018. Send me some feedback for show 300.   You can use the voicemail link on this page OR you can send me a file or just write mike@mikedell.com  

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn It's still snowing. This is getting OLD already. Plus I have a cold. Grumpy short episode.

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Almost sounds like I'm phoning it in. This short episode is from my Airpods as the Microphone on my Mac. Don't think I will use them for producing podcasts, but they are great at listening to podcasts.

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn The weather is BRUTAL here… Was 5 degrees and windy on Christmas and yesterday. It's up to a whopping 11 degrees (F) and sunny today. Heat wave.

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn From a hotel room in Dublin Ohio, where I'm down here showing my face at the Blubrry offices, I just ramble a bit about this and that. Nothing to write home about but it was fun to setup the mobile gear in the hotel room anyway.

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn I talk a little too much about mailboxes and snow Just an update on the way to 300 episodes.

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn A mini political rant on my part. Also, found some old voiceovers that were done my friend Jim Farley back in 2008 or so. Fun stuff. On my way to Episode 300 on Jan 1st 2018.

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Just read about a 25 year old that was killed in his driveway because someone went off the road an hit him. Slow down people! Winter is the time to relax, take it slow, read a book and above all, don't get in a hurry on the roads. You, and those around you, will live to tell about it. We had some snow in the area and I played my traditional snow song for the first real snow in Traverse City this season.

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn As I recorded this at 10:20pm, it is 55-ish degrees outside. Very warm for this time of year this far north. I was able to do my leaf blowing yesterday and I should have been blowing snow. I'm not complaining, just saying … Going for 300 in 2017 so stay tuned for more episodes this month! Check out Blubrry's #buildyourblubrry giveaways this month. Podcast gear and other goodies for podcasters every day in the month of December. Check out facebook.com/blubrry and @blubrry on Twitter for information on how to win every day this month! Use the promo code MIKE for a free month of anything we sell at Blubrry.com

Dealing with heavy snowfall during the winter months is a way of life for the residents of Northern Michigan. With an average snowfall that can exceed 100 inches in some areas, the communities have adapted in unique and effective ways. Preparation for the snow season begins early. Residents ensure their homes are well-insulated, with sufficient heating systems to withstand the biting cold. Snow tires and chains become standard for vehicles as locals aim to maintain mobility in slippery conditions. Additionally, there's a significant investment in snowblowers and plows for personal use. The local governments also play a crucial role. Budgets for winter are carefully planned to ensure that snowplows are in good condition and ready to clear the streets. There's a remarkable efficiency in the deployment of these services, often working throughout the night during heavy snowfall to minimize disruption to daily life. Community spirit shines through during the winter months. Neighbors often help each other, especially in assisting those who are elderly or disabled with snow removal. This camaraderie extends to sharing resources like food and water during particularly severe storms that may lead to temporary isolation. Education on dealing with winter conditions is also a key factor. Schools teach children about frostbite and hypothermia prevention, while local organizations provide winter survival tips. There are also community-led initiatives to ensure everyone has adequate clothing, such as coat drives. Despite the challenges, the residents of Northern Michigan embrace the winter season with a sense of pride and enjoyment. Winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, and ice fishing are not just recreational activities but also a part of the cultural identity of the region. In summary, Northern Michigan's approach to managing snowfall is a blend of preparation, community support, and embracing the harsh yet beautiful winter environment. This resilience allows the region to not only endure but also thrive during the snowy months.

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Well, I did it! This year is the first time in several attempts to finish NaPodPoMo and this year I did it! Thanks for hanging in there and listening to me babble on. Today I talk about a lot of things that happened because of me starting this podcast. Catch me later! I'm taking a few days off.

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Almost done with National Podcast Posting Month (#napodpomo) One more to go!

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Be sure to checkout “Your Podcast by Blubrry” to hear about Blubrry's new stats features and to hear me and Todd go off about whatever it is in podcasting.

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Yup, I talked about Sump pumps and health care. Where else you going to get that combo?

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn I play the original Old Joe Clark (one of the first songs new banjo players learn) and then I play a better version with words. Sort of a music Sunday thing.

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn I heard from a podcast pioneer yesterday and he even sent me some voiceovers. Mark Yoshimoto Nemcoff, who used to do Pacific Coast Hellway Podcast back in the day and was the head of Podshow LA along with 1000 other things. It was very cool to hear from him and he is thinking about podcasting again. No details and he's not sure yet, but I will be working on him! You can see all of Mark's books here: https://www.amazon.com/Mark-Yoshimoto-Nemcoff/e/B004QZM0FS and likely hear him doing voiceovers on commerials and promos on Radio and TV. #NaPodPoMo #25 for 2017 Checkout National Podcast Posting Month here: http://napodpomo.org

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn No #blackfriday shopping for me today. Doing a 1/2 day of work and goofing off a bit. No big plans for most of the the day off. Percy has the right idea

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Happy Thanksgiving for those in the US! Having a bit of a nostalgic day when it comes to podcasting. Editing and recording my new show, Fast Food History.

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Just a quick trial from my iPhone. Trying out a new headset.

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn I reminisce about the “good old days” of Podsafe music. My Friend Kevin Reeves was an early star of the Podsafe music world back then. I play a couple of songs of his. You can check out the rest of his stuff here: http://kevinreeves.net/

Just a couple of Beagle Rules memes read out.

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn I talk about Facebook and a few other things. National Podcast Posting Month #napodpomo

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Just a quick episode rambling about whatever

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn I'm getting ready for the winter by finishing the motorhome winterization, parking it out of the way and getting my snowblower (and ice auger) running and serviced up. Also, I have 4 OSU vs. U of M tickets for sale. (Check them out here: https://nmi.craigslist.org/tix/d/michigan-vs-ohio-state/6389168445.html if you are interested. I don't want to have to go to the game. My easy chair is a much better view of the game but if you have never been to the Big House, it's worth doing it! I also rant about the local TV stations.

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn The first episode of Fast Food History is out. Check it out over at FastFoodHistory.org. This was the idea I had 2 weeks ago that nobody talked me out of. Of course, this is my 17th entry in the 2017 NaPodPoMo for November 17th 2017.

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn I played a couple of songs by Michael McGone (the old GEICO guy from the TV ads a few years back) Also a funny inside Radio bit. (kicked vs. licked) The picture is me 16 days into No Shave November ( got a sort of Santa look going on )

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Nothing in particular in this episode. Just me rambling about this and that. I talk about: – Radio – NaPodPoMo – No Shave November – Blubrry PowerPress – Secret Blubrry Project I'm testing (shhhhh) – Noise Enjoy

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Just testing out a new version of PowerPress, THE podcast plugin for WordPress by Blubrry.com We have added Post To Social into PowerPress for this new version (I think it will be version

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn I preview a few spots for my new show over at fastfoodhistory.org which will have the McDonald's Episdoe out on Friday. Who knew our President did a McDonald's ad? Go check out the rest of the National Podcast Posting Month shows at NaPodPoMo.org

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn A little bit about the party we had yesterday and some Ham Radio stuff. The IOOK net is on 7.185mhz (7185khz) on Sunday Morning at 10:30am – Listen for WA8ZWJ as net control and my call is K8LMJ. You can listen online at WebSdr.org. Try to pick a receiver somewhere in the eastern US for the best chance at hearing anyone from the International Order Of Krazies group. (iook.org) Episode number 12 for #NaPodPoMo (National Podcast Posting Month)

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn One of my favorite episodes. It's a rerun of MDW136 from 2009. Enjoy! Happy Veterans day to those who served!

Why do we change times 2 times a year? My Beagles didn't get the memo...

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Just a quick update between chores setting up for our fall party. Cold and a little bit of snow here in TC.

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Winter is back in Michigan today. I played a couple of old Wild Turkeys songs from 2009. https://www.facebook.com/The-Wild-Turkeys-23002227647/

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn A friend of mine, Steve (AKA Omelette) and Rick Coates are back on the radio as of about a month and a half ago after about 1 year off the air. Steve was doing a podcast over at omeletteradio.com while he was off the radio. Check it out, it's still there and working. But now they are on from 5:30a to 10am on 98.1/97.7 and streaming live on http://classicrockthebear.com/ I talk a bit about how radio and TV work around Traverse City and Northwest Lower / Eastern Upper Michigan. This is #NaPodPoMo number 8 for me.

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn I talk about how working from home is (good and bad) and how I deal with some of the pitfalls. This is No. 7 in the #NaPodPoMo 2017 National Podcast Posting Month where I am doing 30 episodes in 30 days.

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Here is the blog post about it: https://powerpresspodcast.com/2017/11/06/blubrry-announces-acquisition-castfeedvalidator-com/ #NaPodPoMo Catch you Tomorrow!

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn I played a couple of tunes from the (now defunct) Podsafe Music Network and earned my Explicit tag (Barley). Quick update about what is going on in My World Big announcement tomorrow.  I can't wait      

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn He's doing it again… I'm not taking my own advice and starting a new podcast. I have the domain name FastFoodHistory.org but that will not work until Monday. Until then, go to fastfood.blubrry.net and you can subscribe and not miss the first episode in a couple of weeks. As the name implies, it's about Fast Food History. Listen to today's episode to hear more about it.

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn I geek out a bit on Big Boy history and current status. Never knew it was such a Michigan, Ohio and California thing. See: Wikipedia Article Big Boy International Locations Frish's Big Boy locations Catch me Tomorrow

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn I talk about my day on the road at some meetings and some Big Boy trivia. I think I will do a whole episode about Big Boy this month, so stay tuned! This is NaPodPoMo2017 #2 for me. Catch me Tomorrow!

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Participating in National Podcast Posting Month again (along with No-shave November). 30 posts in 30 days. http://napodpomo.org/ is the website ( I think I said .com on the podcast) Check back here daily for a new episode. -Mike

I just got off a live stream / Podcast episode of Podcasting 2.0 with Adam Curry, Dave Jones and Todd Cochrane (see: https://podcastindex.org/podcast/920666 episode 153 ) Had a great time with the guys talking about podcasting and some sexy namespace talk. It's a tad geeky, but very cool. I want to talk to you about your listening app. What do you use to listen to podcasts? One of the "Legacy apps" or a new modern podcast app? For a new app to try, check out https://podcastindex.org/apps?appTypes=app Join me on one of those apps, and setup V4V and look for live streaming alerts for live shows you may like. I just discovered "Podcast Guru" ( https://podcastguru.io/ ) and have it setup just a bit. It seems impressive! Listen to this episode and then go listen to Podcasting 2.0 ep 153.

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Early morning update.   I talk about the summer and how fast it went for us. This episode was recorded in the “new” studio location.  We are working on the basement here so I got to put my office/studio up in the living room. Happy Friday the 13th!  

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn I am just celibrating my Episode 100 over at PodcastHelpDesk.com. I figured I would share this with the Mike Dell's World listeners as well as it's more about my history in podcasting than it is about Podcasting Technology. If you want to subscribe directly to that show, go to PodcastHelpDesk.com and push the approprate button, and YOU will feel a vibration in your pants, whenever i put out an episode! (Thank Mark Whitny!)

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn This podcast has gone to the dogs! Just a little update and some reminiscing with Dog-related songs from the old Podsafe Music Network I update a little about our New (to us) RV and our dogs Percy and Benny (Beagles). I also talk about the Cherry Festival Airshow with the USAF Thunderbirds and the 4th of July fireworks from the Campground in Benzonia Michigan. I played: The Ledgend 2007 version – Michigan Dogman by Steve Cook (WTCM Radio) and Don Julin (among others) A dog's day – T. Randolph Scott Workin' like a dog – Bill Kahler The Dog Song – Little Thom