Pete and Andy explore the peculiar intimacy of podcasting, a medium where listeners forge surprisingly strong bonds with hosts. They dissect the "podfluencer" phenomenon, examining the authenticity and responsibility that comes with this unusual form of influence.

From unexpected conference encounters to the strategic use of online communities and listener engagement, they delve into the mechanics of building trust and connection. This isn't a how-to guide, but a thoughtful exploration of the surprising power of voice and the unexpected intimacy that blossoms in the digital age.

Hey ho, podcasters! We’re back, talking about Apple's big push for binge-worthy narrative podcast series. Are you into it? And in the grand ol’ spirit of podcast follow-up, we dive back into analytics with John Spurlock, the creator of OP3 (Open Podcast Prefix Project).

John explains why he created OP3, how it works, and why open podcast data is so important. He addresses the privacy concerns some podcasters have about sharing their stats, and how OP3 is designed to be both useful and transparent. This is a must-listen for anyone who cares about the future of podcasting and wants to understand how to get the most out of their show's data. Plus, you'll finally learn how to pronounce OP3 without sounding like a dummy.

Links & Notes

• Open Podcast Prefix Project

Ever feel like the digital ground beneath your feet is suddenly shifting? Pete and Andy delve into the murky world of podcast analytics, specifically grappling with the impending demise of Chartable, a once-reliable tracking service swallowed by the Spotify behemoth. They dissect the implications for podcasters, from the practicalities of migrating data to the philosophical questions of open vs. closed platforms. It's a David and Goliath struggle, with independent creators facing the encroaching dominance of tech giants, and the age-old question: who really owns your data?

A glimmer of hope emerges in the form of the Open Podcast Prefix Project (OP3), a free, open-source alternative to Chartable. This plucky underdog offers transparent statistics while prioritizing listener privacy, a refreshing contrast to the data-hungry practices of the big players. Pete and Andy discuss the potential of OP3 to level the playing field, empowering independent podcasters to reclaim control of their analytics. It's a rallying cry for a more open and equitable podcasting landscape.

Ultimately, this episode is a call to action. It's a reminder that podcasters need to be proactive in safeguarding their data and advocating for a more transparent and accessible future for the medium. As the digital giants continue to reshape the podcasting landscape, it's more important than ever to support open-source initiatives and challenge the status quo. Join Pete and Andy as they navigate the treacherous waters of podcasting in the 21st century, offering valuable insights and a healthy dose of skepticism along the way.