Advertise on podcast: The Media Download with John Ondo

Send us Fan Mail A preview of the upcoming Vettes, Rods & Classics from 99.7 The Blitz 103.9 The Maverick. Thanks, North American Broadcasting, for helping spread the word on our charity car show! Go to Vettes Rods and Classics on Facebook to find out more.   Watch all of the video format of this podcast on my YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMqz-XMZ8v2VLfSXSCrEtDmfKum5g5ZEb

Send us Fan Mail John Ondo, a 40-year TV and filmmaking veteran, argues that leaders often wrongly treat media creation as a simple technical task—training someone to “push the buttons” for livestreams or social reels—when high-quality content requires professional instincts built through daily practice. Using golf as an analogy, he says knowing tools and mechanics isn’t the same as developing the judgment needed to adapt to changing conditions and inevitable problems like shifting light or lost SD cards. Ondo warns that low-quality demos, podcasts, and content reflect underinvestment in the team and that digital storytelling is essential for business survival. While AI can save time, skilled professionals are still needed to fix poor AI graphics and scripts. He encourages leaders to foster experimentation and R&D and to think in terms of “storytelling,” not checklists. 00:00 Button Pushing Myth 01:13 Golf Lesson Analogy 01:42 Instincts and Adjustments 02:49 When Shoots Go Wrong 03:35 Media as Survival 03:52 AI Still Needs Pros 04:06 Grow Your Team 04:47 Think Storytelling 05:16 Wrap Up and Next Steps Watch all of the video format of this podcast on my YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMqz-XMZ8v2VLfSXSCrEtDmfKum5g5ZEb

Send us Fan Mail AT&T’s “When the Connection Matters” Campaign: The Storytelling Lesson for Content Creators Media Consultant and Filmmaker, John Ondo, breaks down AT&T’s new ad campaign after seeing spots during the Masters, focusing on “Swing Coach” and “Doomscroll,” and argues they sell meaningful relationships rather than bandwidth or coverage. He notes that the ads target people who value family and connection, using personal stories that emotionally reward viewers and then tie back to reliability. Ondo compares the approach to a powerful OnStar campaign he cited in his book, How to Avoid a Media Meltdown, in which authenticity drove an immediate desire to buy. He explains the shift from spec-based advertising to emphasizing better, more meaningful connections in a multi-screen, shared media environment, and concludes with a lesson for creators: audiences want real, trusted connections driven by storytelling, not more content.  #tvcommericals #storytelling  @ATT #filmmakers #adagency #nonprofitsuccess #communication #branding  00:00 Why This Ad Matters 00:09 Meet John Ondo 00:44 AT&T Swing Coach 02:11 Who They Targeted 02:29 AT&T Doomscroll 03:03 Make It Personal 03:36 OnStar 2005 Ad 04:28 From Specs to Meaning 05:14 Media Is Shared Now 06:01 Less Content - More Connection 06:34 Wrap Up and Subscribe Watch all of the video format of this podcast on my YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMqz-XMZ8v2VLfSXSCrEtDmfKum5g5ZEb

Send us Fan Mail John Ondo, a 40-year TV and filmmaking veteran, compares HBO’s The Pitt and Paramount’s Star Trek: Starfleet Academy—both are teacher-and-student shows with very different outcomes—to explain what content creators can learn about respecting audiences. He argues The Pit succeeds by trusting viewers with real-time, authentic hospital storytelling, minimal handholding, and relatable characters with consequences, helping it become a top streaming hit with broad demographic appeal (75% 30+; 10 million weekly global viewers). In contrast, he says Starfleet Academy tells viewers what to feel, violates core Star Trek principles, targets youth while alienating legacy fans, and has seen viewership drop from 2.1 million to under 200,000. Key takeaways: respect the audience, build real characters instead of message vehicles, and don’t chase demographics—tell universal human stories. #thepitt #startrek #starfleetacademy #contentcreators #television #mediainfluencer #writing #media #MediaTips #AudienceEngagement #ondomedia #podcast 00:00 Two Shows One Lesson 00:23 Host Intro And Setup 01:41 Why The Pit Works 04:40 Why Starfleet Academy Fails 05:43 Authenticity And Audience Respect 07:43 Demographics And Ratings Reality 08:45 Creator Takeaways 10:15 Wrap Up And Subscribe Watch all of the video format of this podcast on my YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMqz-XMZ8v2VLfSXSCrEtDmfKum5g5ZEb

Send us Fan Mail Names Always Matter: What the Corvette E-Ray Teaches About Branding John Ondo explains how naming and branding shape perception, using the Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray as a case study. Though the 2024 E-Ray was a high-performance V8 hybrid with all-wheel drive and 0–60 in 2.5 seconds, many consumers assumed the “E” meant fully electric and treated it like a Tesla, hurting sales. In contrast, Chevrolet’s 2025 ZR1 X—built on the same gas/electric all-wheel-drive concept at a much higher price—became highly sought after, showing how perception drives demand. Reports suggest GM will discontinue the E-Ray and rebrand it as the Grand Sport X to avoid “charging” assumptions and emphasize performance. Ando connects this to business marketing: customers may not test a product, but they instantly test its name, illustrated by “Digital Transformation Initiative” versus “Grow Your Reach Online.” 00:00 Names Always Matter 00:20 Meet the Host 00:53 The E Ray Branding Flop 01:44 What the E Ray Really Is 02:06 ZR1X Name Wins 03:15 GM Plans a Rebrand 03:52 Why Naming Matters 04:13 A Simple Naming Test 05:21 Final Takeaway and Outro Watch all of the video format of this podcast on my YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMqz-XMZ8v2VLfSXSCrEtDmfKum5g5ZEb

Send us Fan Mail The One Production Tool That Changed My Shoots: DJI Osmo Pocket 3 John Ondo explains how the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 has become the biggest production tool he’s bought and why it’s transformed his field workflow in an era of compressed budgets and schedules. With most clients expecting a half-day shoot and fast editing, he emphasizes “get in, get out” without sacrificing quality, especially for B-roll. He highlights the Pocket 3’s 4K one-inch sensor, built-in gimbal stabilization, face tracking, usable depth-of-field control, and strong performance in sunlight and low light, plus color science that matches his Sony a7 III cameras and DJI Mavic footage, with options for Rec. 709 or D-Log. He suggests it as a practical, affordable option for creators, nonprofits, churches, travel, and even client-generated footage to edit. 00:00 Biggest Production Tool 00:48 Faster Shoots New Reality 01:20 Why B Roll Takes Forever 01:56 Meet Osmo Pocket 3 02:16 Stabilization And Workflow 02:57 Color Matching And Log 03:29 Real World Test Footage 04:37 Starter Kit Creator Combo 05:52 Client Strategy And Volume 06:58 Buyers Notes And Wrap 07:14 Subscribe And Sign Off #mediainfluencer  #columbusohio #Filmmaking #TipTuesday #Podcast #djiosmopocket3 #dslrcamera #journalism #photography  Watch all of the video format of this podcast on my YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMqz-XMZ8v2VLfSXSCrEtDmfKum5g5ZEb

Send us Fan Mail Photoshop vs. Canva: Craft vs. Convenience for Media Creators In this episode of The Media Download, John Ondo dives into the ongoing debate between Adobe Photoshop and Canva. He discusses the pros and cons of each tool—highlighting Photoshop's control, collaboration, and industry recognition versus Canva's speed, simplicity, and beginner-friendliness. Through thoughtful comparisons, John emphasizes the importance of a hybrid approach that uses both tools to optimize workflow and creativity. Finally, he dispels the myth that one tool is inherently faster than the other, noting that speed depends on the user's familiarity and proficiency. 00:00 Introduction: The Great Debate 00:42 Meet Your Host: John Ando 01:22 The Power of Photoshop 03:32 The Convenience of Canva 05:40 Finding the Balance: A Hybrid Approach 07:05 Conclusion and Final Thoughts. #mediainfluencer #columbusohio #adobephotoshop  #canva #graphicsdesign #podcast #broadcasters #printing #mediadesign #socialmediamarketing  Watch all of the video format of this podcast on my YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMqz-XMZ8v2VLfSXSCrEtDmfKum5g5ZEb

Send us Fan Mail Top Super Bowl Commercials of 2023: Hilarious & Heartfelt Reviews In this week's episode of The Media Download, John Ondo and his wife Angel review some of the top Super Bowl commercials of 2023. Despite neither of their favorite teams playing, they delve into ads from big brands like Michelob, PepsiCo, Budweiser, GrubHub, Ring, Hellman's, and Instacart. With a mix of humor and heartfelt moments, they rank their favorites and share their thoughts on what makes a commercial memorable. Join them for a fun, insightful discussion packed with nostalgia and star power. 00:00 Introduction and Super Bowl Sentiments 00:26 Meet the Hosts: John and Angel 01:28 Super Bowl Commercials: A Special Review 03:05 Michelob Ultra Instructor Ad Review 05:04 Pepsi's Polar Bear Ad Review 07:50 GrubHub's Fee-Free Ad Review 11:11 Budweiser's American Icons Ad Review 13:39 Animal-Themed Commercials Continue 13:56 Ring's Innovative Lost Dog Campaign 15:43 Bud Light's Star-Studded Wedding Ad 18:50 Hellman's Mayonnaise Makes a Comeback 20:59 Instacart's Catchy Banana Ad 24:21 Final Thoughts and Super Bowl Ad Predictions Watch all of the video format of this podcast on my YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMqz-XMZ8v2VLfSXSCrEtDmfKum5g5ZEb

Send us Fan Mail Join John Ondo on the Media Download this week as he walks through how Oasis City Church navigated a massive snowstorm that forced the cancellation of in-person services. Learn essential hacks and tips for pivoting to an online live-streamed service during emergencies. Discover the importance of pre-production communication, effective planning, and collaboration between media teams and church leadership to ensure a successful and engaging live stream. Whether you're part of a church's media team or a pastor looking to improve weekend services, this episode provides valuable insights and actionable advice. 00:00 Massive Snowstorm Disrupts Midwest Churches 00:29 Introduction to Media Download 01:32 The Importance of Pre-Production Communication 03:52 Crafting an Engaging Online Service 04:54 Executing the Plan: Production Day 07:37 The Power of Good Production 09:12 Final Thoughts and Call to Action  #mediainfluencer #columbusohio Watch all of the video format of this podcast on my YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMqz-XMZ8v2VLfSXSCrEtDmfKum5g5ZEb

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of 'The Media Download,' Media Consultant, John Ondo talks with veteran radio broadcaster and podcaster Terry Dismore about the enduring power and unique advantages of audio podcasting. They delve into why podcasting remains an effective medium for communication, sharing personal viewpoints, and detailed discussion that isn't feasible on social media platforms like Instagram. The conversation includes practical tips for starting a podcast, the significance of keeping it interesting and focused, and the underestimated potential of local podcasts. They also discuss techniques for engaging interviews, emphasizing authenticity, and emotional storytelling. Terry shares insights from his experience and the benefits of consistency and promotion in maintaining a podcast. Whether for business or personal interests, this episode offers valuable advice for anyone considering venturing into the world of podcasting. #podcasting @buzzsprout @quizthediz #youtube #filmmakers #socialmedia 00:00 Introduction 02:52 Why Podcasts Still Matter 03:52 Audio vs Video Podcasts 04:49 Local Podcasting Opportunities 06:49 Getting Started with Podcasting 07:54 Monetization and Audience 11:35 Podcast Length and Format 11:53 Getting to the Point 15:47 The Art of Interviewing 17:14 Emotion in Storytelling 21:16 Video Podcast Production 23:21 Closing Thoughts Watch all of the video format of this podcast on my YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMqz-XMZ8v2VLfSXSCrEtDmfKum5g5ZEb

Send us Fan Mail Analyzing the Iconic Mary Tyler Moore Show Opening In this audio-adbridged episode of the Media Download, hosted by John Ondo, the focus is on the classic opening sequence of The Mary Tyler Moore Show. John delves into the techniques that made this sequence memorable, including insights into its editing, the significance of the music, and its visual storytelling. The episode highlights the importance of story-driven show openings and discusses how today's productions can learn from these classic techniques. Listeners are encouraged to watch the full video analysis on YouTube for a complete exploration. 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 01:30 The Importance of the Mary Tyler Moore Open 02:31 Analyzing the Mary Tyler Moore Open 03:29 Editing Techniques and Insights 09:57 The Power of Theme Songs and Opening Sequences 11:27 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Watch the YouTube Episode at: https://youtu.be/-HA-UIFBTaU Watch all of the video format of this podcast on my YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMqz-XMZ8v2VLfSXSCrEtDmfKum5g5ZEb

Send us Fan Mail 5 Hacks to Instantly Improve Your Voiceovers In this episode of the Media Download, John Ando shares five practical tips to instantly enhance your voiceovers. Whether you're recording yourself, directing talent, or working with clients, these communication-focused hacks will help you achieve better results. Learn how to underline key words, give directions, project your voice, do a backup take, and effectively use AI voice-changing software. Subscribe to our channel for more smart shortcuts in media production and tips to improve quality while saving time. 00:00 Introduction to Improving Voiceovers 00:30 Welcome to the Media Download 01:06 The Importance of Audio in Video Production 01:30 Hack 1: Underline Key Words 03:31 Hack 2: Add Directions 04:58 Hack 3: Give It 110% 05:44 Hack 4: Do a Backup for Giggles 06:44 Hack 5: AI-Generated Voiceover 09:14 Conclusion and Recap #VoiceoverTips #Podcast  @OndoMedia ​ Watch all of the video format of this podcast on my YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMqz-XMZ8v2VLfSXSCrEtDmfKum5g5ZEb

Send us Fan Mail Managing AI Impact on Media and Business: Avoiding AI Accidents In this episode of Marketing Media and Cupcakes, John and Angel delve into the effects of AI on media and business. They discuss the potential pitfalls of AI-generated content, emphasizing the importance of human review and maintaining authenticity to avoid damaging one's brand. The discussion includes relatable anecdotes and statistics highlighting consumer distrust of AI-generated content. The episode concludes with an exciting announcement about the podcast's rebranding to 'The Media Download with John Ondo,' which will focus on storytelling techniques and media production tips. 00:00 Introduction to Marketing Media and Cupcakes 00:20 AI in Media: A Creepy Reality 01:06 The Impact of AI on Social Media 05:30 Historical Context of Fake Media 11:31 AI in Business: Cautionary Tales 12:47 Using AI Strategically 14:59 The Power and Pitfalls of AI 16:24 AI in Content Creation: A Double-Edged Sword 17:26 The Dangers of Over-Polishing with AI 19:06 Transparency and Authenticity in the Age of AI 21:54 The Future of Social Media and AI 26:39 Big Announcement: Rebranding the Podcast Watch all of the video format of this podcast on my YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMqz-XMZ8v2VLfSXSCrEtDmfKum5g5ZEb

Send us Fan Mail Marketing Media and Cupcakes: Cracker Barrel Rebranding and Its Fallout In episode 78 of Marketing Media and Cupcakes, hosts John and Angel Ondo discuss various aspects of marketing and media amidst the seasonal joy of fall. They dive into the controversial rebranding of Cracker Barrel, analyzing its impact, audience reception, and the underlying reasons behind such changes. They critiqued the company's approach, referencing historical examples like Wendy's successful rebranding and hypothesized alternative strategies. The episode concludes with a teaser for the next episode, focusing on the role of AI in social media and its potential implications for the future. Tell us what you think by emailing us at [email protected] and visit our business websites at ondomedia.com and angelscustomcupcakes.com 00:00 Welcome Back to Marketing Media and Cupcakes 00:14 Introduction to the Hosts and Their Businesses 01:34 The Cracker Barrel Controversy 02:41 Analyzing Cracker Barrel's Marketing Strategy 06:28 Lessons from Other Brands 14:25 Rebranding: When and Why When a big brand stumbles, small businesses can learn a lot. Cracker Barrel’s recent rebrand sparked backlash—not because change is bad, but because of how it was handled. Here are 3 takeaways for small business owners: 1️⃣ Know Your Audience Before You Change Your loyal customers are your foundation. Test new ideas, logos, or messaging with them first. What feels like “fresh” to you may feel like “loss” to them. 2️⃣ Communicate the Why If you don’t explain the reason for a rebrand, customers will fill in the blanks—and not always kindly. Frame your change as part of your growth story, not just a cosmetic update. 3️⃣ Evolve Without Alienating Modernize, yes—but keep the heart of what made people love you. A rebrand should feel like an evolution, not a betrayal. Big brands can take the PR hit and recover. Small businesses? We need to be smarter. Change carefully, change clearly, and always keep your people at the center. Why You Should Rebrand: 1. Your Brand No Longer Reflects Who You Are As businesses grow, their services, audience, and vision often evolve. If your logo, messaging, or look feels outdated—or doesn’t capture what you do today—a rebrand can realign your image with your current mission. 2. You Need to Reach a New Audience If you’re trying to expand into new markets or attract younger (or different) demographics, your current branding may not resonate. A rebrand can modernize your appeal and make you more relevant. 3. You’re Getting Lost in the Competition In crowded markets, looking and sounding like everyone else can hurt you. Rebranding helps you stand out with a fresh identity that communicates your unique value. 4. Your Reputation Needs a Reset If your business has experienced bad press, customer complaints, or just a “stale” reputation, a rebrand can signal a clean slate and rebuild trust. 5. You’ve Outgrown Your Old Look Sometimes the brand you started with—DIY logos, colors, or messaging—just isn’t strong enough anymore. A professional rebrand enhances your online presence and demonstrates to customers that you’ve matured. 17:13 Why you should not Rebrand 1. Your Core Customers Love You As You Are If your current branding is strongly recognized and trusted, a rebrand risks alienating loyal customers who feel connected to your existing identity. 2. The Problem Isn’t Your Brand—It’s Operations A new logo or color palette won’t solve slow service, inconsistent product quality, or poor marketing execution. Rebranding won’t fix business fundamentals. ⚖️ Bottom line: Watch all of the video format of this podcast on my YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMqz-XMZ8v2VLfSXSCrEtDmfKum5g5ZEb

Send us Fan Mail The Return of Marketing Media and Cupcakes: COVID, Struggles, and Resilience On February 8th, 2021, John and Angel Ondo's podcast 'Marketing Media and Cupcakes' vanished, with no explanation. Returning after four years and seven months, the couple reveals the real story behind their hiatus. Following a positive COVID-19 diagnosis, Angel experienced health challenges that deeply impacted their life and small business. Angel talks about her devastating loss of taste and smell, which halted her cupcake business, while John shares how they adapted amidst personal and professional hurdles. They reflect on lessons learned, the shift in their business models, and plans for their three 'postseason' episodes as they reconnect with their audience. Join them as they explain their journey and share insights on resilience, marketing, and the impacts of COVID-19. If you're glad to see this podcast return, please let us know at [email protected] and like and subscribe.  00:00 The Mysterious Disappearance 01:07 The Last Episode and COVID Strikes 01:55 The Long Hiatus Explained 02:41 The Impact on Angel's Cupcake Business 04:00 The Struggles with COVID Symptoms 09:40 Vaccination and New Challenges 13:10 Struggles with Smell and Taste Post-COVID 14:07 Current State of Smell and Taste 15:57 Resuming Baking and Business Adjustments 16:48 New Business Model and Lessons Learned 21:50 Family and Work-Life Balance 23:14 Podcast Revival and Future Plans Watch all of the video format of this podcast on my YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMqz-XMZ8v2VLfSXSCrEtDmfKum5g5ZEb