Explore every episode of the podcast Showmakers: your guide to brand podcasting
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Podcast Growth Strategy: Integrating with Email, CRM, Content, Sales, and Social | 31 Mar 2026 | 00:09:33 | |
In this episode Ed Barker, Founder of Studio 1878, talks about how most company podcasts operate in isolation and argues they should be integrated into the full marketing system so each episode does more work. How do you do that? Practical integrations: email (each episode triggers a value-led message, and episodes drive email capture via resources), CRM (use directional company listening data to inform sales and segment nurture), and a unified content calendar so podcast topics align with campaigns. The episode also covers intentional repurposing planned before recording (clips, quotes, newsletter insights, transcripts, blog posts, YouTube segments), sales enablement (mapping episodes to common objections in a shared resource), and better social distribution beyond launch-day announcements. Integration requires stakeholder alignment, shared processes, and clear ownership to create compound value, and he recommends auditing current touchpoints and fixing one integration gap this quarter. The Cross-Channel Integration Checklist is here and the Stakeholder Alignment Template is here. 00:00 Introduction 00:48 Email Integration 02:12 CRM Integration 03:07 Content Calendar & Repurposing 04:59 Sales Enablement 05:49 Social Integration 06:35 Stakeholder Alignment 08:10 Key Takeaways Ed Barker has been producing and recording podcasts since 2009. After a long career as a corporate marketing and strategy executive and then a VC, Ed launched Studio 1878 with the goal of making brand and business podcasting much better. Ed is a Brit working out of Seattle and podcasting worldwide. We're a creative podcast development studio that believes everyone has a story worth telling. Although we produce our own shows, we specialize in business and brand podcasts, helping you tell you story from ideation to distribution, transforming concepts to real connection with audiences. We produce our own shows, but our core proposition is in helping businesses and creators produce something truly compelling and authentic. Contact Web: www.1878.studio Email: hello@1878.studio Mobile: 425-520-3483 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Podcast Growth Strategy: Levers That Actually Work | 06 Mar 2026 | 00:16:05 | |
In this episode, Ed Barker, founder of Studio 1878, examines why podcast growth is slower and more complicated than most people expect. Audio podcasts compound gradually because discovery is inefficient and listening demands a significant time commitment. The episode covers the main growth levers available to brand podcast producers: guest networks and how to make it easy and worthwhile for guests to share; content velocity and consistency, with weekly publishing often the right cadence but regularity mattering more than frequency; platform algorithms on Spotify and YouTube, where completion rates, follows, saves, streaks, watch time, and click-through all influence reach; and audience sharing, which is inherently high-friction and works better when built around specific shareable moments and well-placed prompts. The episode also covers podcast swaps and the host's personal brand, particularly LinkedIn for B2B shows, as underused channels, and sets out when paid promotion makes sense: as an accelerant behind specific high-value episodes aimed at a defined audience, not as a substitute for organic growth strategy. The Guest Amplification Checklist and 90-Day Growth Experiment Framework are available here. 00:00 Introduction 01:53 The Four Primary Growth Levers 02:02 Lever 1: Guest Networks 02:51 Lever 2: Content Velocity 04:16 Lever 3: Platform Algorithms 05:32 Lever 4: Audience Sharing 07:52 Lever 5: Podcast Swaps 09:08 The Host Personal Brand 10:15 Paid Promotion: When It Works 12:06 The Compounding Effect 13:07 90 Day Growth Experiment 14:39 Key Takeaways & Next Episode About Your Host Ed Barker has been producing and recording podcasts since 2009. After a long career as a corporate marketing and strategy executive, and then a VC, Ed launched Studio 1878 with the goal of making brand and business podcasting much better. Ed is a Brit, working out of Seattle, and podcasting worldwide. We're a creative podcast development studio that believes everyone has a story worth telling. Although we produce our own shows, we specialize in business and brand podcasts, helping you tell you story from ideation to distribution, transforming concepts to real connection with audiences. We produce our own shows but our core proposition is in helping businesses and creators produce something truly compelling and authentic. Contact Web: www.1878.studio Email: hello@1878.studio Mobile: 425-520-3483 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Podcast Growth Strategy: The Three Tier Framework | 04 Mar 2026 | 00:15:08 | |
In this episode, Ed Barker, founder of Studio 1878, opens a five-episode series on podcast distribution and growth by challenging the assumption that being available everywhere is the right strategy. RSS distribution to Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other listening apps is largely automatic and not where the real decisions lie. The harder question is how many additional formats to commit to: full video for YouTube, social clips, and written content can push weekly production from a couple of hours to 15 or 20, and that investment needs to be justified. The episode introduces a three-tier framework for thinking about platforms: a primary platform where you build a direct audience relationship, typically a website with email capture; secondary platforms where discovery happens, such as Spotify, Apple, and YouTube; and tertiary platforms for short clips designed to drive interest. The right choices depend on owned versus rented audience relationships, where your actual listeners are, what the show is trying to achieve commercially, and how much production capacity you can realistically sustain. The Platform Decision Matrix and Distribution Audit Template mentioned in the show can be found here. 00:00 Introduction: New Series on Distribution 00:53 The Content Factory Problem 02:45 Three Tier Framework 03:01 Primary, Secondary & Tertiary Platforms 06:01 Framework in Practice 08:25 Platform Deep Dive: Spotify, Apple, Youtube 10:20 Which Platform Should You Prioritize? 11:21 Owned vs Rented Land 12:30 Decision Framework Questions 13:44 Key Takeaways About Your Host Ed Barker has been producing and recording podcasts since 2009. After a long career as a corporate marketing and strategy executive, and then a VC, Ed launched Studio 1878 with the goal of making brand and business podcasting much better. Ed is a Brit, working out of Seattle, and podcasting worldwide. We're a creative podcast development studio that believes everyone has a story worth telling. Although we produce our own shows, we specialize in business and brand podcasts, helping you tell you story from ideation to distribution, transforming concepts to real connection with audiences. We produce our own shows but our core proposition is in helping businesses and creators produce something truly compelling and authentic. Contact Web: www.1878.studio Email: hello@1878.studio Mobile: 425-520-3483 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Show Design Series: Integrating Audio and Video in Show Production | 13 Jan 2026 | 00:14:39 | |
In this final episode of the series on show design, Ed Barker, founder of Studio 1878, tackles the challenge of producing content for audio and video at the same time. Simply filming a podcast is rarely the right answer. Audio and video audiences have different expectations and different listening or watching habits, and serving both well requires deliberate trade-offs rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. The episode outlines three ways to integrate video into an audio-first show, covers the production complexities and additional costs that come with each, and makes the case for choosing a primary format and building everything else around it. Supplementary materials should support that core design, not complicate it. A show built with a clear sense of what it is, and what it is not, is easier to sustain and more likely to hold its audience over time. 00:00 Introduction: Should We Do Video? 01:16 Why Audio and Video Are Different 03:00 Three Approaches to Audio and Video 05:36 Why 'We'll Just Clip It' Usually Fails 07:08 How Cameras Change Behavior 09:27 Production Reality: Time and Budget 10:40 Framework for Making Decisions 11:57 Coherence Matters More Than Reach 12:54 Closing: Good Podcasts Are Designed About Your Host Ed Barker has been producing and recording podcasts since 2009. After a long career as a corporate marketing and strategy executive - and then a VC - Ed launched Studio 1878 in early 2025 with the goal of making brand and business podcasting much better. Ed is a Brit, working out of Seattle, and podcasting worldwide. 🌎 A podcast development studio for the modern brand. We believe everyone has a story worth telling. Specializing in business and brand podcasts, we’ll help build your story from ideation to distribution, transforming concepts to real connection with your audiences. We produce our own shows but our core proposition is in helping businesses and creators produce something truly compelling and authentic. We’d love to help you tell your story. Contact Web: www.1878.studio Email: hello@1878.studio Mobile: 425-520-3483 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Show Design Series: Podcast Production Budgets | 06 Jan 2026 | 00:15:08 | |
In this episode, Ed Barker, founder of Studio 1878, makes the case for treating production budgets as a strategic decision rather than an afterthought. The episode breaks down the components that make up a typical production workflow: research, recording, editing, quality control, and asset creation. Different budget tiers are examined alongside the trade-offs each involves, and the connection between production choices and the long-term quality and sustainability of a show is explored in detail. Poor planning in this area is one of the more common routes to burnout, and the episode addresses how to avoid it through realistic scheduling and a clear-eyed view of what each production commitment actually requires. 00:00 Introduction: Production as Strategy 01:21 What Production Actually Includes 02:48 Production Time Breakdown 04:25 High Production vs High Quality 05:53 Budget Tiers and Trade-offs 08:42 Time as the Real Constraint 09:53 In-House vs External Production 11:13 Episode Frequency and Sustainability 12:15 Designing for Longevity 13:12 Key Takeaways 13:59 Next Episode Preview About Your Host Ed Barker has been producing and recording podcasts since 2009. After a long career as a corporate marketing and strategy executive - and then a VC - Ed launched Studio 1878 in early 2025 with the goal of making brand and business podcasting much better. Ed is a Brit, working out of Seattle, and podcasting worldwide. 🌎 A podcast development studio for the modern brand. We believe everyone has a story worth telling. Specializing in business and brand podcasts, we’ll help build your story from ideation to distribution, transforming concepts to real connection with your audiences. We produce our own shows but our core proposition is in helping businesses and creators produce something truly compelling and authentic. We’d love to help you tell your story. Contact Web: www.1878.studio Email: hello@1878.studio Mobile: 425-520-3483 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Show Design Series: Mastering Podcast Structure | 30 Dec 2025 | 00:15:46 | |
In this episode, Ed Barker, founder of Studio 1878, examines why episode structure matters more than most podcast hosts realise. Topics and guests tend to get the attention, but listeners are really asking one question: is this worth my time? Good structure answers that question by guiding listeners through an episode in a way that feels purposeful, which leads to higher completion rates and stronger audience relationships over time. The episode covers the pitfalls of meandering conversations, strategies for maintaining engagement through clear narrative arcs and recurring segments, and why both the opening and the closing of an episode deserve more thought than they usually get. A well-structured episode serves the audience and makes the host's job considerably easier. 00:00 Introduction: Why Structure Matters 01:00 The Data on Drop-Off Rates 01:23 Why Conversation Alone Isn't Enough 03:09 What Listeners Actually Want 03:48 The Shape of a Good Episode 05:41 Openings: The First Minute 07:09 Pacing Over Length 08:47 Using Segments to Create Rhythm 11:31 How Structure Helps the Host 12:29 Why Endings Matter 13:44 Structure Respects the Listener 14:47 Next Episode Preview Ed Barker has been producing and recording podcasts since 2009. After a long career as a corporate marketing and strategy executive - and then a VC - Ed launched Studio 1878 in early 2025 with the goal of making brand and business podcasting much better. Ed is a Brit, working out of Seattle, and podcasting worldwide. 🌎 A podcast development studio for the modern brand. We believe everyone has a story worth telling. Specializing in business and brand podcasts, we’ll help build your story from ideation to distribution, transforming concepts to real connection with your audiences. We produce our own shows but our core proposition is in helping businesses and creators produce something truly compelling and authentic. We’d love to help you tell your story. Contact Web: www.1878.studio Email: hello@1878.studio Mobile: 425-520-3483 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Show Design Series: Podcast Formats as a Strategic Choice | 23 Dec 2025 | 00:15:35 | |
In this episode, Ed Barker, founder of Studio 1878, argues that choosing a podcast format is a strategic decision, not a creative one. Format determines how much work a show generates every week, and that operational reality shapes whether a show survives long enough to build an audience. The episode examines the main formats available: loose conversational interviews, structured interviews, narrative storytelling, and co-hosted conversations, weighing the demands and trade-offs of each. Picking a format without understanding what it requires is one of the more reliable paths to burnout and inconsistency. The right choice is the one that fits the show's goals and the team's realistic capacity, and holds up week after week. 00:00 Introduction: Format as Strategy 00:47 What Format Determines 01:19 Format Examples in Practice 02:30 Why Interviews Become the Default 03:14 The Booking Trap 04:37 Guest-Led Trade-offs 05:53 Where the Thinking Happens 06:07 Single Host Monologue 06:48 Co-Hosted Conversation 07:52 Structured Interview Format 08:45 Narrative or Reported Format 09:46 Why to Avoid Panel Shows 10:43 Why Constraints Make Shows Better 12:10 Format and Sustainability 13:18 Format as a Positioning Tool 13:58 Questions to Ask About Format 14:45 Wrap-up and Next Episode Ed Barker has been producing and recording podcasts since 2009. After a long career as a corporate marketing and strategy executive - and then a VC - Ed launched Studio 1878 in early 2025 with the goal of making brand and business podcasting much better. Ed is a Brit, working out of Seattle, and podcasting worldwide. 🌎 A podcast development studio for the modern brand. We believe everyone has a story worth telling. Specializing in business and brand podcasts, we’ll help build your story from ideation to distribution, transforming concepts to real connection with your audiences. We produce our own shows but our core proposition is in helping businesses and creators produce something truly compelling and authentic. We’d love to help you tell your story. Contact Web: www.1878.studio Email: hello@1878.studio Mobile: 425-520-3483 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Show Design Series: Designing a Podcast as a Show | 17 Dec 2025 | 00:10:41 | |
In this episode, Ed Barker, founder of Studio 1878, sets out why designing a show and simply producing a podcast are two very different things. A well-designed show has a clear, repeatable idea at its centre, and that consistency is what builds audience trust and loyalty over time. Two companies' podcast strategies are compared to illustrate what that difference looks like in practice. The episode also addresses a common mistake: replicating a format that works for someone else without understanding why it works, which rarely produces the same results. For marketing teams starting from scratch, the episode offers a framework for thinking through show design strategically before a single episode is recorded. 00:00 The Power of Podcasts for Brands 00:39 Starting with the Right Question 01:21 Podcast vs Show: Understanding the Difference 02:16 Example: Two Companies, Different Outcomes 03:24 Why Interviews Alone Aren't Enough 04:50 The Importance of a Central Idea 05:53 The Risk of Copying Successful Shows 06:49 Three Strategic Questions to Ask 08:22 Designing for the Return 08:50 Reducing Risk Through Upfront Design 09:51 Closing and Next Steps Ed Barker has been producing and recording podcasts since 2009. After a long career as a corporate marketing and strategy executive - and then a VC - Ed launched Studio 1878 in early 2025 with the goal of making brand and business podcasting much better. Ed is a Brit, working out of Seattle, and podcasting worldwide. 🌎 A podcast development studio for the modern brand. We believe everyone has a story worth telling. Specializing in business and brand podcasts, we’ll help build your story from ideation to distribution, transforming concepts to real connection with your audiences. We produce our own shows but our core proposition is in helping businesses and creators produce something truly compelling and authentic. We’d love to help you tell your story. Contact Web: www.1878.studio Email: hello@1878.studio Mobile: 425-520-3483 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Podcast Analytics Series: Future of Podcast Analytics | 26 Nov 2025 | 00:10:46 | |
Future Podcast Measurement In the final episode of the Showmakers analytics series, Ed Barker from Studio 1878 explores the future of podcast measurement. He discusses the limitations of current metrics and predicts significant advancements in attribution, brand lift studies, and sentiment analysis using AI. Ed emphasizes the shift from mere data collection to actionable insights that enhance both internal and external brand storytelling. By focusing on audience emotion, brand trust, and improved integration with overall marketing strategies, this episode presents a vision where podcasts become a crucial part of a brand's intelligence system. 00:00 Introduction 00:22 The Current State of Podcast Measurement 01:17 The Future of Attribution 02:50 Smarter Brand Lift and Sentiment Analysis 03:59 Measurement as Brand Health Indicator 05:04 AI and Automation in Podcast Analytics 06:38 Internal Measurement and Employee Engagement 07:01 From Proving Value to Using Insights 08:45 The Next Five Years of Podcast Measurement 09:53 Closing Thoughts Ed Barker has been producing and recording podcasts since 2009. After a long career as a corporate marketing and strategy executive - and then a VC - Ed launched Studio 1878 in early 2025 with the goal of making brand and business podcasting much better. Ed is a Brit, working out of Seattle, and podcasting worldwide. 🌎 A podcast development studio for the modern brand. We believe everyone has a story worth telling. Specializing in business and brand podcasts, we’ll help build your story from ideation to distribution, transforming concepts to real connection with your audiences. We produce our own shows but our core proposition is in helping businesses and creators produce something truly compelling and authentic. We’d love to help you tell your story. Contact Web: www.1878.studio Email: hello@1878.studio Mobile: 425-520-3483 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Podcast Analytics Series: Building a Lasting Measurement System | 19 Nov 2025 | 00:09:48 | |
Building a Lasting Podcast Measurement System In the final episode of Showmakers’ analytics series, Ed Barker of Studio 1878 discusses how to create a measurement system that endures leadership changes and budget reviews. He emphasizes the importance of turning data into a rhythm that the business understands and ensuring measurement becomes part of the working culture. Barker outlines the creation of a measurement stack, setting up a cadence, assigning ownership, and designing dashboards tailored for different audiences. He stresses the significance of incorporating feedback and institutionalizing the measurement system to future-proof it. Finally, Barker highlights the need for measurement to be a cultural pillar, driving better decisions and long-term success for brand podcasts. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 00:19 The Importance of a Lasting Measurement System 01:40 Building Your Measurement Stack 02:51 Setting Up Cadence and Ownership 03:47 Creating Effective Dashboards 05:02 Feedback Loops and Continuous Improvement 05:56 Institutionalizing Your Measurement System 06:49 Leadership and Long-Term Value 07:46 Measurement as a Cultural Practice 08:27 Conclusion and Next Steps Ed Barker has been producing and recording podcasts since 2009. After a long career as a corporate marketing and strategy executive - and then a VC - Ed launched Studio 1878 in early 2025 with the goal of making brand and business podcasting much better. Ed is a Brit, working out of Seattle, and podcasting worldwide. 🌎 A podcast development studio for the modern brand. We believe everyone has a story worth telling. Specializing in business and brand podcasts, we’ll help build your story from ideation to distribution, transforming concepts to real connection with your audiences. We produce our own shows but our core proposition is in helping businesses and creators produce something truly compelling and authentic. We’d love to help you tell your story. Contact Web: www.1878.studio Email: hello@1878.studio Mobile: 425-520-3483 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Podcast Analytics Series: Balancing ROI and Creativity in Brand Podcasts | 12 Nov 2025 | 00:11:54 | |
In this episode of the analytics series, Ed Barker, founder of Studio 1878, takes on the question that haunts almost every branded podcast project before a single episode is recorded: how do you prove the ROI? The tension between creative ambition and business accountability is real, but measuring a podcast strictly like a performance ad, chasing direct attribution and conversion, tends to produce something transactional, short-lived, and not worth listening to. The episode makes the case for treating a podcast as brand infrastructure: a compounding asset that builds trust, accelerates pipelines, and supports retention over time. That framing changes what you measure and how. A practical framework is outlined for tracking success in a way that satisfies business accountability without stripping out the human quality that makes a show worth coming back to. 00:00 Introduction to Showmakers 00:53 The ROI Dilemma in Branded Podcasts 02:10 Understanding Different Types of ROI 03:28 The Challenge of Attribution in Podcasts 04:23 Connecting Creativity to Commercial Outcomes 05:27 The Compounding ROI of Podcasts 06:20 Protecting Creativity in Podcasting 07:28 Reporting ROI Effectively 09:20 Key Conversations with Budget Owners 10:55 Conclusion and Next Steps About Your Host Ed Barker has been producing and recording podcasts since 2009. After a long career as a corporate marketing and strategy executive - and then a VC - Ed launched Studio 1878 in early 2025 with the goal of making brand and business podcasting much better. Ed is a Brit, working out of Seattle, and podcasting worldwide. 🌎 A podcast development studio for the modern brand. We believe everyone has a story worth telling. Specializing in business and brand podcasts, we’ll help build your story from ideation to distribution, transforming concepts to real connection with your audiences. We produce our own shows but our core proposition is in helping businesses and creators produce something truly compelling and authentic. We’d love to help you tell your story. Contact Web: www.1878.studio Email: hello@1878.studio Mobile: 425-520-3483 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Podcast Analytics Series: From Dashboards to Decisions | 08 Nov 2025 | 00:08:54 | |
In this episode of the analytics series, Ed Barker, founder of Studio 1878, works through the gap between having podcast data and knowing what to do with it. Charts and dashboards are only useful if they lead somewhere. The episode breaks down what analytics can and cannot reliably tell you, how to find the signal beneath the noise, and how to translate findings into creative and marketing decisions that actually change something. It also covers how to present that analysis to leadership in a way that builds credibility rather than inviting scepticism. For anyone who has found themselves staring at a retention curve and genuinely unsure what it means, the episode offers a practical way through. 00:00 Introduction 00:45 Data Isn't the Story 01:27 Three Layers of Insight 03:06 Understanding Retention 04:16 Turning Insights Into Action 04:59 From Reporting to Learning 06:18 How to Report to Leadership 07:04 Closing Thoughts About Your Host Ed Barker has been producing and recording podcasts since 2009. After a long career as a corporate marketing and strategy executive - and then a VC - Ed launched Studio 1878 in early 2025 with the goal of making brand and business podcasting much better. Ed is a Brit, working out of Seattle, and podcasting worldwide. 🌎 A podcast development studio for the modern brand. We believe everyone has a story worth telling. Specializing in business and brand podcasts, we’ll help build your story from ideation to distribution, transforming concepts to real connection with your audiences. We produce our own shows but our core proposition is in helping businesses and creators produce something truly compelling and authentic. We’d love to help you tell your story. Contact Web: www.1878.studio Email: hello@1878.studio Mobile: 425-520-3483 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Podcast Analytics: Setting Goals That Align | 01 Nov 2025 | 00:11:15 | |
In this opening episode of the analytics series, Ed Barker, founder of Studio 1878, starts with the question most brand podcast projects never answer properly: what does success actually look like? Excitement and a strong concept are a reasonable starting point, but vague goals like awareness or thought leadership lead to measuring the wrong things and wasting time. The episode covers how to connect a podcast's goals directly to business outcomes, how to design a format around intent rather than instinct, and how to think about measurement across three time horizons. The frameworks here are aimed at teams who want to build something strategically coherent from the start, rather than reverse-engineering the rationale after the show is already in production. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 00:25 Launching Without Clear Goals 01:05 Chasing the Wrong Numbers 01:50 Start with the Business, Not the Show 02:31 Connecting Goals to Show Design 04:25 Intent-Metric-Message Framework 05:33 Three Horizons of Measurement 06:48 Aligning Strategy with Leadership 07:53 Setting Realistic Targets 08:40 The Pyramid of Purpose 09:19 Building Goals into Your Workflow 10:10 Wrap-Up and Next Steps About Your Host Ed Barker has been producing and recording podcasts since 2009. After a long career as a corporate marketing and strategy executive - and then a VC - Ed launched Studio 1878 in early 2025 with the goal of making brand and business podcasting much better. Ed is a Brit, working out of Seattle, and podcasting worldwide. 🌎 A podcast development studio for the modern brand. We believe everyone has a story worth telling. Specializing in business and brand podcasts, we’ll help build your story from ideation to distribution, transforming concepts to real connection with your audiences. We produce our own shows but our core proposition is in helping businesses and creators produce something truly compelling and authentic. We’d love to help you tell your story. Contact Web: www.1878.studio Email: hello@1878.studio Mobile: 425-520-3483 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Podcast Analytics: The Metrics That Matter | 24 Oct 2025 | 00:09:11 | |
In this episode, Ed Barker, founder of Studio 1878, tackles the moment every marketer dreads: being asked how the podcast is performing and not having a confident answer. Downloads and chart rankings are the easy metrics to reach for, but they rarely tell the story that matters to leadership. The episode sets out how to define the purpose of a show before settling on KPIs, which health metrics and more advanced indicators are worth tracking, and how to turn reporting into something that makes a coherent case for the show's value. The frameworks here apply whether the goal is reach, reputation, or internal engagement, and the underlying argument throughout is that measuring what actually matters and proving ROI are not in conflict, as long as you start with the right questions. 00:00 - Introduction: Measuring Podcast Success 00:46 -The Problem with Traditional Podcast Metrics 01:42 - Define Your Why Before Your KPIs 02:25 - Core Health Metrics That Matter 03:52 - Advanced Metrics for Mature Shows 06:06 - Turning Data Into a Story 07:13 - Measurement Cadence 07:47 - Wrap-Up & Next Episode Preview Ed Barker has been producing and recording podcasts since 2009. After a long career as a corporate marketing and strategy executive - and then a VC - Ed launched Studio 1878 in early 2025 with the goal of making brand and business podcasting much better. Ed is a Brit, working out of Seattle, and podcasting worldwide. 🌎 A podcast development studio for the modern brand. We believe everyone has a story worth telling. Specializing in business and brand podcasts, we’ll help build your story from ideation to distribution, transforming concepts to real connection with your audiences. We produce our own shows but our core proposition is in helping businesses and creators produce something truly compelling and authentic. We’d love to help you tell your story. Contact Web: www.1878.studio Email: hello@1878.studio Mobile: 425-520-3483 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Building Listener Loyalty in Brand Podcasts | 15 Oct 2025 | 00:07:52 | |
Building Listener Loyalty in Brand Podcasts In this episode of Showmakers, Ed Barker from Studio 1878 discusses the importance of building deep engagement and loyalty in branded podcasts rather than just chasing reach or vanity metrics like downloads and followers. Ed explains how loyalty, consistency, and respecting your audience's time are key to creating a podcast that listeners return to regularly. He emphasizes the value of designing episodes to reward listeners, involving internal audiences, creating habits, encouraging participation, and leveraging other marketing channels for a two-way dialogue. Finally, he highlights the importance of focusing on listener loyalty to naturally drive growth and build meaningful connections. 00:00 Introduction 00:33 Building Listener Loyalty 02:05 Designing Valuable Episodes 02:53 Nurturing Internal Audiences 03:29 Creating Habit-Forming Shows 04:10 Encouraging Audience Participation 04:37 Utilizing Signature Segments 05:31 Integrating with Other Marketing Channels 06:16 Common Mistakes in Podcast Growth 06:52 Final Thoughts on Loyalty 07:20 Preview of Next Episode Ed Barker has been producing and recording podcasts since 2009. After a long career as a corporate marketing and strategy executive - and then a VC - Ed launched Studio 1878 in early 2025 with the goal of making brand and business podcasting much better. Ed is a Brit, working out of Seattle, and podcasting worldwide. 🌎 A podcast development studio for the modern brand. We believe everyone has a story worth telling. Specializing in business and brand podcasts, we’ll help build your story from ideation to distribution, transforming concepts to real connection with your audiences. We produce our own shows but our core proposition is in helping businesses and creators produce something truly compelling and authentic. We’d love to help you tell your story. Contact Web: www.1878.studio Email: hello@1878.studio Mobile: 425-520-3483 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Podcast Distribution - a Starter Guide | 08 Oct 2025 | 00:06:08 | |
Redefining Podcast Distribution: Building Reach and Reputation In this episode of Showmakers, Ed Barker from Studio 1878 emphasizes the importance of effective podcast distribution. He explains that distribution goes beyond simply uploading to platforms like Spotify and highlights the concept of 'audience design' which involves targeting where listeners already spend their attention. Ed also discusses the multi-layered approach to distribution, integrating podcasts into overall brand campaigns, leveraging guests and team members as micro distribution channels, and measuring the real influence of a podcast. He concludes by underscoring the importance of reactivating and resurfacing archived content to maintain relevant brand assets. 00:00 Introduction to Podcast Distribution 00:38 Understanding Distribution as Brand Architecture 01:33 The Shift in Multi-Platform Discovery 02:14 Integrating Distribution into Campaign Planning 02:52 Leveraging People as Distribution Channels 03:33 Measuring Podcast Influence Beyond Downloads 04:16 Reactivating Your Podcast Archive 04:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts About Your Host Ed Barker has been producing and recording podcasts since 2009. After a long career as a corporate marketing and strategy executive (and then a VC), Ed launched Studio 1878 (www.1878.studio) in early 2025 with the goal of making brand and business podcasting much better. Ed is a Brit, working out of Seattle, and podcasting worldwide. 🌎 A podcast development studio for the modern brand. We believe everyone has a story worth telling. Specializing in business and brand podcasts, we’ll help build your story from ideation to distribution, transforming concepts to real connection with your audiences. We produce our own shows but our core proposition is in helping businesses and creators produce something truly compelling and authentic. We’d love to help you tell your story. 😈 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Editing as the Heartbeat of Brand Podcasts | 01 Oct 2025 | 00:05:49 | |
From Raw Talk to Brand Narrative In this episode of Showmakers, Ed Barker from Studio 1878 explores the crucial role of editing in corporate podcasting. Rather than just trimming and adding music, editing transforms raw conversations into a narrative that mirrors your brand's intelligence, empathy, and perspective. Ed discusses how emotional architecture, pacing, and narrative structure can enhance the story, making it more impactful and authentic. By treating editing as a form of authorship and reputation management, brands can craft podcasts that not only sound good but also reflect their identity and values. 00:00 Introduction 00:22 Editing as Strategy 01:08 Emotional Architecture 01:54 Editing as Reputation Management 02:43 Reordering for Clarity 03:29 Sound as Brand Identity 03:55 Protecting the Host's Humanity 04:43 Closing Thoughts & Next Episode About Your Host Ed Barker has been producing and recording podcasts since 2009. After a long career as a corporate marketing and strategy executive (and then a VC), Ed launched Studio 1878 (www.1878.studio) in early 2025 with the goal of making brand and business podcasting much better. Ed is a Brit, working out of Seattle, and podcasting worldwide. 🌎 A podcast development studio for the modern brand. We believe everyone has a story worth telling. Specializing in business and brand podcasts, we’ll help build your story from ideation to distribution, transforming concepts to real connection with your audiences. We produce our own shows but our core proposition is in helping businesses and creators produce something truly compelling and authentic. We’d love to help you tell your story. 😈 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Keeping Your Solo Podcast Energy High | 24 Sep 2025 | 00:06:58 | |
Keeping Your Solo Podcast Energy High In this episode of Showmakers, Ed Barker from Studio 1878 shares practical tips on maintaining high energy levels while recording solo podcast episodes. Ed discusses the importance of visualizing a real listener, recording while standing, using a bullet point script, varying your pacing, and breaking content into segments. He emphasizes the power of storytelling and advises recording in short bursts to keep energy high. Ed wraps up by highlighting the value solo episodes bring in building intimacy and trust with listeners. 00:00 Introduction 00:22 Why Solo Energy Matters 01:10 Tip 1: Picture a Real Listener 01:41 Tip 2: Stand Up and Move 02:14 Tip 3: Script Smart 02:58 Tip 4: Vary Your Pacing 03:53 Tip 5: Break Into Segments 04:21 Tip 6: Include Real Stories 04:59 Tip 7: Record in Bursts 05:28 Closing Thoughts Ed Barker has been producing and recording podcasts since 2009. After a long career as a corporate marketing and strategy executive (and then a VC), Ed launched Studio 1878 (www.1878.studio) in early 2025 with the goal of making brand and business podcasting much better. Ed is a Brit, working out of Seattle, and podcasting worldwide. 🌎 A podcast development studio for the modern brand. We believe everyone has a story worth telling. Specializing in business and brand podcasts, we’ll help build your story from ideation to distribution, transforming concepts to real connection with your audiences. We produce our own shows but our core proposition is in helping businesses and creators produce something truly compelling and authentic. We’d love to help you tell your story. 😈 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Storytelling Strategy: How to Make Storytelling a Habit | 17 Sep 2025 | 00:07:28 | |
How to Make Storytelling a Habit: Enhancing Your Podcast Consistently In the final episode of Showmakers' five-part miniseries on storytelling, Ed Barker from Studio 1878 explores the importance of making storytelling a consistent habit in podcast creation. Ed emphasizes that without intentional storytelling, podcasts can become dull and forgettable. He offers actionable tips on embedding storytelling into every stage of the podcast process—from planning and recording to editing and promoting. Ed also encourages podcasters to review their previous work with a storytelling lens and consider storytelling as a continuous practice. This episode concludes with a recap of the mini-series and an invitation for further support and collaboration. 00:00 Introduction 00:43 The Importance of Intentional Storytelling 01:19 Starting with Story in Episode Prep 02:14 Developing Story Radar 02:53 Storytelling in the Edit 03:13 Building a Storytelling Culture 04:21 Storytelling as a Practice 05:12 Series Recap 06:21 Closing and Next Episode Preview Ed Barker has been producing and recording podcasts since 2009. After a long career as a corporate marketing and strategy executive (and then a VC), Ed launched Studio 1878 (www.1878.studio) in early 2025 with the goal of making brand and business podcasting much better. Ed is a Brit, working out of Seattle, and podcasting worldwide. 🌎 A podcast development studio for the modern brand. We believe everyone has a story worth telling. Specializing in business and brand podcasts, we’ll help build your story from ideation to distribution, transforming concepts to real connection with your audiences. We produce our own shows but our core proposition is in helping businesses and creators produce something truly compelling and authentic. We’d love to help you tell your story. 😈 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Storytelling Strategy: Shaping Stories Through Editing | 10 Sep 2025 | 00:07:03 | |
Shaping Stories Through Editing: Techniques for Narrative Podcasting In this episode of Showmakers, Ed Barker from Studio 1878 explores the art of editing and highlights the importance of narrative shaping in post-production. Ed emphasizes that editing is more than just cutting audio; it's about uncovering and structuring the story within the conversation. He offers practical tips for both DIY editors and those working with editors, including identifying the story arc, removing non-essential dialogue, and reordering content for better impact. He also stresses the value of human moments and encourages editors to develop their unique style. This episode is geared towards ensuring that every podcast episode tells a compelling, well-structured story. 00:00 Introduction 00:44 The Purpose of Editing 01:25 Finding the Story Arc 02:06 Being Flexible with Content 02:27 Removing Verbal Scaffolding 03:22 Reordering Content 04:00 Rhythm and Flow 04:43 Working with Editors 05:37 Developing Your Style 06:18 Closing and Next Episode Preview Ed Barker has been producing and recording podcasts since 2009. After a long career as a corporate marketing and strategy executive (and then a VC), Ed launched Studio 1878 (www.1878.studio) in early 2025 with the goal of making brand and business podcasting much better. Ed is a Brit, working out of Seattle, and podcasting worldwide. 🌎 A podcast development studio for the modern brand. We believe everyone has a story worth telling. Specializing in business and brand podcasts, we’ll help build your story from ideation to distribution, transforming concepts to real connection with your audiences. We produce our own shows but our core proposition is in helping businesses and creators produce something truly compelling and authentic. We’d love to help you tell your story. 😈 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Storytelling Strategy: Listening for Key Moments in Your Podcast Recording | 05 Sep 2025 | 00:08:45 | |
Mastering Storytelling: Listening for Key Moments in Your Podcast In this episode of Showmakers, Ed Barker from Studio 1878 dives into the essentials of recording for storytelling in podcasts. He explains how key moments such as changes, emotions, details, stakes, and surprises can transform an okay episode into a great one. Ed shares tips for hosts and producers alike on how to identify and leverage these storytelling elements while recording, making the final edit sharper and more engaging. Tune in to learn how to make your episodes memorable and authentic by capturing the raw material for your story arc in real-time. 00:00 Introduction 00:21 The Importance of Live Recording 01:01 What to Listen For: Change 02:09 Capturing Emotion 03:18 The Power of Detail 04:01 Understanding Stakes 04:56 The Element of Surprise 05:39 Solo Episode Tips 06:41 The Role of Silence 08:00 Closing Thoughts About Your Host Ed Barker has been producing and recording podcasts since 2009. After a long career as a corporate marketing and strategy executive (and then a VC), Ed launched Studio 1878 (www.1878.studio) in early 2025 with the goal of making brand and business podcasting much better. Ed is a Brit, working out of Seattle, and podcasting worldwide. 🌎 A podcast development studio for the modern brand. We believe everyone has a story worth telling. Specializing in business and brand podcasts, we’ll help build your story from ideation to distribution, transforming concepts to real connection with your audiences. We produce our own shows but our core proposition is in helping businesses and creators produce something truly compelling and authentic. We’d love to help you tell your story. 😈 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Storytelling Strategy: Practical Storytelling Arcs in Podcasting | 05 Sep 2025 | 00:07:37 | |
Unlocking Story Shapes in Podcasting: Practical Applications In this episode of Showmakers, Ed Barker, founder of Studio 1878, continues his storytelling series by exploring practical ways to use storytelling in podcasting. He introduces various 'story shapes' such as the hero's journey, before-after-bridge, the mountain, list with a twist, and spark and expansion. Ed explains how these narrative structures can help make podcast episodes more engaging, structured, and memorable. He also discusses how to choose the right shape for your content and emphasizes the importance of intention and repetition in creating a polished podcast. Whether you're developing a new podcast or refining existing content, Ed offers tips to incorporate these story shapes effectively. 00:00 Introduction 01:32 Hero's Journey 02:33 Before-After-Bridge 03:13 The Mountain 03:54 List with a Twist 04:33 Spark and Expansion 05:12 Choosing the Right Shape 05:57 Repetition and Recognition 06:23 Conclusion About Your Host Ed Barker has been producing and recording podcasts since 2009. After a long career as a corporate marketing and strategy executive (and then a VC), Ed launched Studio 1878 (www.1878.studio) in early 2025 with the goal of making brand and business podcasting much better. Ed is a Brit, working out of Seattle, and podcasting worldwide. 🌎 A podcast development studio for the modern brand. We believe everyone has a story worth telling. Specializing in business and brand podcasts, we’ll help build your story from ideation to distribution, transforming concepts to real connection with your audiences. We produce our own shows but our core proposition is in helping businesses and creators produce something truly compelling and authentic. We’d love to help you tell your story. 😈 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Storytelling Strategy: Why Storytelling Matters | 26 Aug 2025 | 00:06:10 | |
The Power of Storytelling in Podcasting Ed Barker from Studio 1878 kicks off a five-part series on storytelling, focusing on its critical role in making podcasts successful. In this episode of Showmakers, Ed explains why storytelling works, especially in a business context. He discusses the importance of making storytelling practical and concrete, rather than vague or cliché. Ed highlights how stories help people understand and feel connected to the content, making them essential in podcasting. He also provides a preview of the upcoming episodes, which will cover different types of story structures, how to find story moments during recording, shaping stories in the edit, and making storytelling a consistent part of the creative process. Ed emphasizes that storytelling is the engine of a compelling podcast and invites listeners to consider the stories they are telling in their own shows. 00:00 Introduction to Show Makers 00:48 The Power of Storytelling in Business 01:37 The Emotional Impact of Stories 02:56 Structuring Your Story 03:34 Practical Storytelling Examples 04:17 Upcoming Episodes Preview 04:58 Final Thoughts on Storytelling 05:39 Sign-Off About Your Host Ed Barker has been producing and recording podcasts since 2009. After a long career as a corporate marketing and strategy executive (and then a VC), Ed launched Studio 1878 in early 2025 with the goal of making brand and business podcasting much better. Ed is a Brit, working out of Seattle, and podcasting worldwide. 🌎 A podcast development studio for the modern brand. We believe everyone has a story worth telling. Specializing in business and brand podcasts, we’ll help build your story from ideation to distribution, transforming concepts to real connection with your audiences. We produce our own shows but our core proposition is in helping businesses and creators produce something truly compelling and authentic. We’d love to help you tell your story. 😈 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| The Perfect Podcast Intro and Outro | 20 Aug 2025 | 00:05:15 | |
Mastering Your Podcast Intro and Outro In this episode of Show Makers, Ed Barker from Studio 1878 discusses the crucial elements of creating effective podcast intros and outros. Ed emphasizes the importance of making a strong first impression within the first 30 seconds and outlines the key components of a compelling intro: stating the show's name, clarifying the target audience, and maintaining a consistent yet engaging structure. He also delves into the significance of music selection for branding purposes. The outro is highlighted as a valuable opportunity to reinforce the episode's content and encourage audience action, such as subscribing or sharing. Throughout, Ed advises on simplicity, consistency, and staying on brand. The episode concludes with a teaser for an upcoming series on storytelling in podcasting and an invitation for listeners to reach out for personalized podcast development assistance. 00:00 Introduction 00:37 Let's Start With The Intro 01:13 So What Makes a Good Intro? 02:14 Let's Talk About Music for a Second 03:04 Now Let's Talk About Outros 03:51 Keep it Tight, Keep it Repeatable 04:19 In The Spirit of Eating My Own Dogfood About Your Host Ed Barker has been producing and recording podcasts since 2009. After a long career as a corporate marketing and strategy executive (and then a VC), Ed launched Studio 1878 in early 2025 with the goal of making brand and business podcasting much better. Ed is a Brit, working out of Seattle, and podcasting worldwide. 🌎 A podcast development studio for the modern brand. We believe everyone has a story worth telling. Specializing in business and brand podcasts, we’ll help build your story from ideation to distribution, transforming concepts to real connection with your audiences. We produce our own shows but our core proposition is in helping businesses and creators produce something truly compelling and authentic. We’d love to help you tell your story. 😈 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Interviewing 101: How to Make Guests Sound Their Best | 13 Aug 2025 | 00:07:27 | |
In this episode of Showmakers, host Ed Barker, founder of Studio 1878, talks about the intricacies of conducting stellar podcast interviews. Touching on everything from preparation to execution, Ed offers valuable advice on making guests sound confident and engaging. Key points include the importance of thorough research, the utility of pre-calls, technical preparations, and the art of active listening. Listeners will learn the nuances of asking open-ended questions, managing the flow of conversation, and maintaining an engaging dialogue 00:00 Introduction 00:40 Interviewing is a Skill 01:31 Great interviews Start with good prep 02:37 Do The Tech Check 03:32 In the Interview, Start Warm 04:15 Remember to Make Space for Your Guest 05:06 And if They Go Off Track ... 06:02 Remember Your're Goal is to Make Them Sound Great 06:31 Get It Right, Your Audience Will Talk Away With Something About Your Host Ed Barker has been producing and recording podcasts since 2009. After a long career as a corporate marketing and strategy executive (and then a VC), Ed launched Studio 1878 in early 2025 with the goal of making brand and business podcasting much better. Ed is a Brit, working out of Seattle, and podcasting worldwide. 🌎 A podcast development studio for the modern brand. We believe everyone has a story worth telling. Specializing in business and brand podcasts, we’ll help build your story from ideation to distribution, transforming concepts to real connection with your audiences. We produce our own shows but our core proposition is in helping businesses and creators produce something truly compelling and authentic. We’d love to help you tell your story. 😈 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Should You Script Your Podcast? | 11 Aug 2025 | 00:05:13 | |
In this episode of Showmakers, Ed Barker from Studio 1878 dives into the benefits and drawbacks of scripting your podcast. Learn about the three levels of podcast scripting - fully scripted, bullet points, and off the cuff - and discover when each approach might be best for your show. Ed also discusses how scripting can aid in focus, brand voice consistency, and accessibility, as well as the potential downsides like sounding flat and lacking spontaneity in interviews. Get tips on finding the right balance between structured content and natural conversation, and hear why practice makes perfect. Tune in to determine the best scripting strategy for your podcast! 00:00 Introduction 00:29 What is podcast scripting? 01:16 Benefits of scripting 02:24 Disadvantages of scripting 03:30 Finding the right balance 04:11 Final recommendations 04:33 Next episode preview and outro About Your Host Ed Barker has been producing and recording podcasts since 2009. After a long career as a corporate marketing and strategy executive (and then a VC), Ed launched Studio 1878 in early 2025 with the goal of making brand and business podcasting much better. Ed is a Brit, working out of Seattle, and podcasting worldwide. 🌎 A podcast development studio for the modern brand. We believe everyone has a story worth telling. Specializing in business and brand podcasts, we’ll help build your story from ideation to distribution, transforming concepts to real connection with your audiences. We produce our own shows but our core proposition is in helping businesses and creators produce something truly compelling and authentic. We’d love to help you tell your story. 😈 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Podcast Editing: What to Cut and Keep | 05 Aug 2025 | 00:05:34 | |
In this episode of Showmakers, Ed Barker, the founder of Studio 1878, discusses the vital aspects of podcast editing. Learn the purposes of editing and the key elements you should cut, including technical issues, verbal clutter, and structural fatigue. Ed also explains the importance of maintaining authenticity by keeping natural pauses, genuine reactions, and the host's personality. Discover how consistent editing shapes your brand voice and ensures a seamless experience for your listeners. Stay tuned for the next episode on sound design, and connect directly with Ed for personalized podcast advice. 00:00 Introduction - Making the Best Possible Podcast 01:23 What to Cut - Technical Issues, Verbal Clutter, and Structural Problems 02:20 What to Keep - Natural Elements and Personality 03:09 Editing Style - Developing Your Brand Voice 04:48 Conclusion - Next Steps About Your Host Ed Barker has been producing and recording podcasts since 2009. After a long career as a corporate marketing and strategy executive (and then a VC), Ed launched Studio 1878 in early 2025 with the goal of making brand and business podcasting much better. Ed is a Brit, working out of Seattle, and podcasting worldwide. 🌎 A podcast development studio for the modern brand. We believe everyone has a story worth telling. Specializing in business and brand podcasts, we’ll help build your story from ideation to distribution, transforming concepts to real connection with your audiences. We produce our own shows but our core proposition is in helping businesses and creators produce something truly compelling and authentic. We’d love to help you tell your story. 😈 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Mastering Podcast Sound Design | 29 Jul 2025 | 00:06:28 | |
In this episode of Showmakers, we explore the intricacies of sound design for podcasts. Learn how to use music and sound effects to enhance your storytelling, create a consistent audio identity, and avoid common pitfalls. Ed Barker, founder of Studio 1878, shares professional tips on selecting and balancing audio elements to keep your audience engaged. Don't miss essential advice on creating a polished and impactful podcast. 00:00 Introduction 00:43 What is Sound Design? 01:38 Music in Podcasts 03:28 Sound Effects 04:35 Balancing Sound Design 05:30 Takeaways and Outro About Your Host Ed Barker has been producing and recording podcasts since 2009. After a long career as a corporate marketing and strategy executive (and then a VC), Ed launched Studio 1878 in early 2025 with the goal of making brand and business podcasting much better. Ed is a Brit, working out of Seattle, and podcasting worldwide. 🌎 A podcast development studio for the modern brand. We believe everyone has a story worth telling. Specializing in business and brand podcasts, we’ll help build your story from ideation to distribution, transforming concepts to real connection with your audiences. We produce our own shows but our core proposition is in helping businesses and creators produce something truly compelling and authentic. We’d love to help you tell your story. 😈 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| The Basics: Fix Common Podcast Audio Mistakes | 21 Jul 2025 | 00:06:18 | |
In this episode of Showmakers, Ed Barker from Studio 1878 shares expert advice on identifying and fixing common audio mistakes in podcasting. Learn how to avoid issues like hisses, hums, and echoes, proper mic techniques, room noise control, and essential recording settings. Ed also covers post-production pitfalls such as over-editing and inconsistent volume. Tune in to enhance your podcast sound from episode one! 00:00 Introduction 00:44 Common Mic Mistakes 01:55 Room Noise & Echo 02:32 Background Noise & Equipment Hums 03:09 Recording Settings & Software Setup 04:07 Post-Production Pitfalls 05:42 Conclusion & Next Episode Preview About Your Host Ed Barker has been producing and recording podcasts since 2009. After a long career as a corporate marketing and strategy executive (and then a VC), Ed launched Studio 1878 in early 2025 with the goal of making brand and business podcasting much better. Ed is a Brit, working out of Seattle, and podcasting worldwide. 🌎 A podcast development studio for the modern brand. We believe everyone has a story worth telling. Specializing in business and brand podcasts, we’ll help build your story from ideation to distribution, transforming concepts to real connection with your audiences. We produce our own shows but our core proposition is in helping businesses and creators produce something truly compelling and authentic. We’d love to help you tell your story. 😈 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| The Basics: Studio-Quality Sound in Any Environment | 15 Jul 2025 | 00:10:15 | |
Achieving Studio-Quality Audio in Non-Studio Environments In this episode of Showmakers, host Ed Barker, founder of Studio 1878, dives deep into achieving great audio quality outside of professional studios. Barker shares his expertise on selecting the right microphones, optimizing recording spaces, and applying proper mic techniques to ensure clear and professional sound. He also discusses practical tips for remote recordings and the importance of gain staging. Whether recording in office spaces, at home, or on the go, Barker provides invaluable advice to elevate the quality of brand podcasts. The episode concludes with insights on when it is ideal to use a professional studio. 00:00 Introduction 01:06 What Does Studio Quality Mean? 01:49 Four Key Factors Affecting Audio Quality 02:48 Creating the Ideal Recording Space 03:27 Microphone Technique Tips 04:07 Understanding Gain and Levels 04:48 Essential Equipment 06:10 Recording in Shared Spaces 07:23 When to Use a Professional Studio 09:10 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview Ed Barker has been producing and recording podcasts since 2009. After a long career as a corporate marketing and strategy executive (and then a VC), Ed launched Studio 1878 in early 2025 with the goal of making brand and business podcasting much better. Ed is a Brit, working out of Seattle, and podcasting worldwide. 🌎 A podcast development studio for the modern brand. We believe everyone has a story worth telling. Specializing in business and brand podcasts, we’ll help build your story from ideation to distribution, transforming concepts to real connection with your audiences. We produce our own shows but our core proposition is in helping businesses and creators produce something truly compelling and authentic. We’d love to help you tell your story. 😈 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| The Basics: Does Your Podcast Need a Website? | 14 Jul 2025 | 00:05:03 | |
Essential Guidelines for Success In this episode of Showmakers, Ed Barker, founder of Studio 1878, discusses the importance of having a dedicated website for your podcast. Learn when it's essential, what key features to include, and the different ways to build your site. Discover how a podcast website can enhance search visibility, provide a central hub for listener engagement, and convert traffic into subscribers and customers. Ed also covers scenarios where a website might not be necessary and previews upcoming content on achieving studio-quality sound for your recordings. 00:00 Introduction: Do You Need a Website for Your Podcast? 00:33 Why a Podcast Website Matters 01:17 Essential Features for Your Podcast Website 02:03 Bonus Features for Enhanced Engagement 02:30 Building Your Podcast Website: Options and Tips 03:29 When You Might Not Need a Podcast Website 04:01 Conclusion and Next Steps Ed Barker has been producing and recording podcasts since 2009. After a long career as a corporate marketing and strategy executive (and then a VC), Ed launched Studio 1878 in early 2025 with the goal of making brand and business podcasting much better. Ed is a Brit, working out of Seattle, and podcasting worldwide. 🌎 A podcast development studio for the modern brand. We believe everyone has a story worth telling. Specializing in business and brand podcasts, we’ll help build your story from ideation to distribution, transforming concepts to real connection with your audiences. We produce our own shows but our core proposition is in helping businesses and creators produce something truly compelling and authentic. We’d love to help you tell your story. 😈 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| The Basics: Podcast Hosting Made Super Simple! | 07 Jul 2025 | 00:05:26 | |
Get Your Show Everywhere In this episode of Showmakers, Ed Barker, founder of Studio 1878, breaks down the essentials of podcast hosting and distribution. Learn how to choose a podcast host, the process of getting listed on major platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube, and tips for making your content accessible everywhere. Discover hosting options, get insights on uploading audio and video content to YouTube for maximum reach. Tune in next week to explore the importance of having a podcast website. 00:00 Introduction to Podcast Hosting and Distribution 00:34 Understanding Hosting vs. Distribution 01:09 Choosing the Right Podcast Host 02:27 Getting Listed on Major Platforms 03:46 Leveraging YouTube for Podcasts 04:42 Conclusion and Next Steps About Your Host Ed Barker has been producing and recording podcasts since 2009. After a long career as a corporate marketing and strategy executive (and then a VC), Ed launched Studio 1878 in early 2025 with the goal of making brand and business podcasting much better. Ed is a Brit, working out of Seattle, and podcasting worldwide. 🌎 A podcast development studio for the modern brand. We believe everyone has a story worth telling. Specializing in business and brand podcasts, we’ll help build your story from ideation to distribution, transforming concepts to real connection with your audiences. We produce our own shows but our core proposition is in helping businesses and creators produce something truly compelling and authentic. We’d love to help you tell your story. 😈 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| The Basics: How Long Should a Podcast Really Be? | 01 Jul 2025 | 00:05:11 | |
How to Determine the Perfect Length for Your Podcast Episodes Welcome to Show Makers! In this episode, Ed Barker, founder of Studio 1878, addresses the timeless question: how long should a podcast episode be? Barker dissects various formats to help you determine the ideal length for your episodes, emphasizing the importance of delivering value while respecting your audience's time. He explains the necessity of consistency, the impact of audience behavior, and why understanding your listener's habits is crucial. From solo insights to interviews and round-tables, get expert advice on tailoring your podcast length to your content and audience. Tune in next week as Ed discusses the ins and outs of podcast hosting and distribution. 00:00 Introduction to Podcast Episode Length 00:45 Debunking the Myth of Perfect Length 01:20 Matching Length to Podcast Format 02:30 Understanding Your Audience's Behavior 03:37 Consistency Over Length 04:19 Conclusion and Next Week's Preview About Your Host Ed Barker has been producing and recording podcasts since 2009. After a long career as a corporate marketing and strategy executive (and then a VC), Ed launched Studio 1878 in early 2025 with the goal of making brand and business podcasting much better. Ed is a Brit, working out of Seattle, and podcasting worldwide. 🌎 A podcast development studio for the modern brand. We believe everyone has a story worth telling. Specializing in business and brand podcasts, we’ll help build your story from ideation to distribution, transforming concepts to real connection with your audiences. We produce our own shows but our core proposition is in helping businesses and creators produce something truly compelling and authentic. We’d love to help you tell your story. 😈 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| The Basics: The Power of a Good Trailer Episode | 23 Jun 2025 | 00:03:44 | |
Crafting the Perfect Podcast Teaser In this episode of Show Makers, Ed Barker, founder of Studio 1878, discusses the importance of having a compelling trailer episode for your podcast. He explains why a trailer is essential, likening it to an audio elevator pitch that helps attract new listeners and allows podcast platforms to index your show. Ed outlines five key elements that make a great trailer: introducing your show, speaking to your audience, setting expectations, showcasing your personality, and inviting action. He provides practical tips on scripting, recording, and updating your trailer to effectively reflect your show's evolving focus. Tune in next week for insights on the ideal length of podcast episodes. 00:00 Introduction to Show Makers 00:13 The Importance of a Trailer Episode 01:04 Key Elements of a Great Trailer 01:31 Crafting Your Trailer Script 02:03 Recording Tips for Your Trailer 02:42 Updating Your Trailer 03:04 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview About Your Host Ed Barker has been producing and recording podcasts since 2009. After a long career as a corporate marketing and strategy executive (and then a VC), Ed launched Studio 1878 in early 2025 with the goal of making brand and business podcasting much better. Ed is a Brit, working out of Seattle, and podcasting worldwide. 🌎 A podcast development studio for the modern brand. We believe everyone has a story worth telling. Specializing in business and brand podcasts, we’ll help build your story from ideation to distribution, transforming concepts to real connection with your audiences. We produce our own shows but our core proposition is in helping businesses and creators produce something truly compelling and authentic. We’d love to help you tell your story. 😈 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| The Basics: How to Write a Podcast Description | 17 Jun 2025 | 00:05:24 | |
Mastering Your Podcast Description: How to Hook Listeners In this episode of Showmakers, Ed Barker, founder of Studio 1878, discusses the importance of a podcast description. He explains its dual role in positioning and discovery, and offers a five-part structure for crafting an effective description. Key points include starting with a strong hook, defining the value, clarifying the format, injecting personality, and incorporating a call to action. Ed also covers the role of SEO and common mistakes to avoid. Enhance your podcast's reach and relevance with these practical tips. 00:00 Introduction 00:39 What Does a Podcast Description Do? 01:31 Five Elements of a Great Description 02:48 SEO Considerations 03:45 Common Mistakes to Avoid 04:30 Closing and Next Episode Preview About Your Host Ed Barker has been producing and recording podcasts since 2009. After a long career as a corporate marketing and strategy executive (and then a VC), Ed launched Studio 1878 in early 2025 with the goal of making brand and business podcasting much better. Ed is a Brit, working out of Seattle, and podcasting worldwide. 🌎 A podcast development studio for the modern brand. We believe everyone has a story worth telling. Specializing in business and brand podcasts, we’ll help build your story from ideation to distribution, transforming concepts to real connection with your audiences. We produce our own shows but our core proposition is in helping businesses and creators produce something truly compelling and authentic. We’d love to help you tell your story. 😈 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| The Basics: Naming Your Podcast For Maximum Impact | 11 Jun 2025 | 00:06:36 | |
Effective Strategies for Naming Your Podcast In this episode of Showmakers, host Ed Barker, founder of Studio 1878, discusses the importance of naming your podcast effectively. He explains how a good podcast name does more than sound clever; it helps with discovery, signals the show's content, and makes it easy to remember and share. Ed outlines two main naming approaches: descriptive and keyword-rich names for better searchability, and branded or metaphorical names for more identity and flexibility. He also provides a checklist to test potential names and highlights common pitfalls to avoid. Lastly, Ed gives actionable advice on brainstorming and validation for selecting the perfect podcast name. 00:00 Showmakers Episode 5 Naming Your Podcast 00:00 Introduction to Show Makers 00:32 The Function of a Podcast Name 01:14 Two Effective Naming Models 03:24 Common Naming Pitfalls to Avoid 04:18 Naming Checklist 04:59 Practical Naming Process 06:02 Closing and Next Episode Preview About Your Host Ed Barker has been producing and recording podcasts since 2009. After a long career as a corporate marketing and strategy executive (and then a VC), Ed launched Studio 1878 in early 2025 with the goal of making brand and business podcasting much better. Ed is a Brit, working out of Seattle, and podcasting worldwide. 🌎 A podcast development studio for the modern brand. We believe everyone has a story worth telling. Specializing in business and brand podcasts, we’ll help build your story from ideation to distribution, transforming concepts to real connection with your audiences. We produce our own shows but our core proposition is in helping businesses and creators produce something truly compelling and authentic. We’d love to help you tell your story. 😈 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| The Basics: What Podcast Gear Do I Really Need? | 06 Jun 2025 | 00:11:19 | |
Essential Podcast Gear: What You Really Need to Get Started In episode four of Showmakers, Ed Barker, founder of Studio 1878, outlines the essential gear you need to launch your podcast, whether on a budget or with a bigger investment. He breaks down the must-haves and nice-to-haves in microphones, headphones, interfaces, and software. Ed provides specific recommendations for budget, mid-range, and pro-level setups, and offers crucial tips for creating a good recording environment. Finally, he shares advice on selecting and using recording and editing software effectively. 00:00 Introduction to Showmakers 00:08 Essential Podcast Gear 01:30 Microphone Options for Every Budget 03:32 Optimizing Your Recording Environment 04:14 Choosing the Right Headphones 04:57 Interfaces and Mixers Explained 05:41 Simplifying Podcast Software 06:54 Editing and Publishing Tips 08:53 Additional Accessories 09:59 Conclusion About Your Host Ed Barker has been producing and recording podcasts since 2009. After a long career as a corporate marketing and strategy executive (and then a VC), Ed launched Studio 1878 in early 2025 with the goal of making brand and business podcasting much better. Ed is a Brit, working out of Seattle, and podcasting worldwide. 🌎 A podcast development studio for the modern brand. We believe everyone has a story worth telling. Specializing in business and brand podcasts, we’ll help build your story from ideation to distribution, transforming concepts to real connection with your audiences. We produce our own shows but our core proposition is in helping businesses and creators produce something truly compelling and authentic. We’d love to help you tell your story. 😈 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| The Basics: Finding Your Unique Angle | 31 May 2025 | 00:06:10 | |
Finding Your Unique Angle in a Crowded Podcast Space In this episode of Showmakers, Ed Barker from Studio 1878 talks about the importance of identifying and honing a unique angle for your podcast. He addresses the common pitfalls of brand podcasts sounding generic and provides three key questions to help find your distinct voice: Who is your specific audience? What unique viewpoints or insights do you offer? Why is a podcast the best format for your content right now? Using examples from successful brand podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, Inside Trader Joe's, and Andreessen Horowitz's a16z, Ed illustrates how to create a compelling, original podcast. Additionally, he offers tips for crafting a one-sentence positioning statement to clearly define your podcast's unique value proposition. Subscribe to catch the next episode where Ed will discuss how to achieve studio-quality sound on any budget. 00:00 Introduction to Show Makers 00:11 The Importance of Finding Your Unique Angle 01:12 Key Questions to Define Your Podcast's Angle 03:10 Examples of Successful Brand Podcasts 04:21 Crafting Your Podcast's Positioning Statement 05:16 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview About Your Host Ed Barker has been producing and recording podcasts since 2009. After a long career as a corporate marketing and strategy executive (and then a VC), Ed launched Studio 1878 in early 2025 with the goal of making brand and business podcasting much better. Ed is a Brit, working out of Seattle, and podcasting worldwide. 🌎 A podcast development studio for the modern brand. We believe everyone has a story worth telling. Specializing in business and brand podcasts, we’ll help build your story from ideation to distribution, transforming concepts to real connection with your audiences. We produce our own shows but our core proposition is in helping businesses and creators produce something truly compelling and authentic. We’d love to help you tell your story. 😈 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| The Basics: Which Podcast Format Is Best For You? | 28 May 2025 | 00:08:46 | |
In this episode of the Showmakers Podcast, Ed Barker, founder of Studio 1878, discusses different types of podcast formats and how to choose the best podcast format for your show. He emphasizes that there's no one-size-fits-all solution, offering valuable podcasting tips for brands who are considering launching a podcast to help tailor your podcast type to your content and audience needs. Discover how to start a podcast that truly resonates! 00:00 Introduction to the Showmakers Podcast 00:48 Why Podcast Format Matters 01:39 Exploring the Solo Podcast Format 02:40 The Popular Interview Format 03:55 The Dynamic Co-Hosted Show 05:16 Narrative or Story-Driven Formats 06:41 Choosing the Right Format for Your Podcast 07:44 Recap and Next Steps About Your Host Ed Barker has been producing and recording podcasts since 2009. After a long career as a corporate marketing and strategy executive (and then a VC), Ed launched Studio 1878 in early 2025 with the goal of making brand and business podcasting much better. Ed is a Brit, working out of Seattle, and podcasting worldwide. 🌎 A podcast development studio for the modern brand. We believe everyone has a story worth telling. Specializing in business and brand podcasts, we’ll help build your story from ideation to distribution, transforming concepts to real connection with your audiences. We produce our own shows but our core proposition is in helping businesses and creators produce something truly compelling and authentic. We’d love to help you tell your story. 😈 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| The Basics: Why Start a Brand Podcast? | 18 May 2025 | 00:06:55 | |
🎙️ Why Start a Brand Podcast? In the first episode of the Showmakers Podcast, host Ed Barker, founder of Studio 1878, explores the world of podcasting. Ed discusses why launching a podcast can be valuable for businesses or brands, highlighting the deep engagement and lasting connections it fosters. Ed covers the key benefits of podcasting, including building authority, engaging with your audience, owning your platform, and expanding your network. He also addresses common concerns such as the saturation of podcasts, having a small audience, and disliking the sound of your own voice. This episode sets the stage for future installments, which will cover essential topics like formatting, tech, marketing, and monetization. 00:00 Introduction to the Showmakers Podcast 00:31 Why Start a Podcast? 00:57 The Podcasting Boom 02:08 Building Authority and Engagement 03:15 Owning Your Platform and Expanding Your Network 04:22 Addressing Common Concerns 05:43 Conclusion and Next Steps Ed Barker has been producing and recording podcasts since 2009. After a long career as a corporate marketing and strategy executive (and then a VC), Ed launched Studio 1878 in early 2025 with the goal of making brand and business podcasting much better. Ed is a Brit, working out of Seattle, and podcasting worldwide. 🌎 A podcast development studio for the modern brand. We believe everyone has a story worth telling. Specializing in business and brand podcasts, we’ll help build your story from ideation to distribution, transforming concepts to real connection with your audiences. We produce our own shows but our core proposition is in helping businesses and creators produce something truly compelling and authentic. We’d love to help you tell your story. 😈 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Welcome to the Showmakers' Podcast | 12 May 2025 | 00:00:40 | |
🎙️ Welcome to The Showmakers’ Podcast, hosted by Ed Barker. Each short-form episode offers straight-talking advice on podcast strategy, production, and growth. Whether you're launching your first show or scaling an existing one, this series helps you make smarter audio decisions—one episode at a time. Ed Barker has been producing and recording podcasts since 2009. After a long career as a corporate marketing and strategy executive (and then a VC), Ed launched Studio 1878 in early 2025 with the goal of making brand and business podcasting much better. Ed is a Brit, working out of Seattle, and podcasting worldwide. 🌎 A podcast development studio for the modern brand. We believe everyone has a story worth telling. Specializing in business and brand podcasts, we’ll help build your story from ideation to distribution, transforming concepts to real connection with your audiences. We produce our own shows but our core proposition is in helping businesses and creators produce something truly compelling and authentic. We’d love to help you tell your story. 😈 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||