Advertise on podcast: Pump Up Your Pod

Apple Podcasts has officially moved into video podcasting, and it’s a bigger shift than a lot of podcasters realise. With support for HLS video, Apple will now allow creators to publish video podcasts on Apple Podcasts and give listeners the option to switch between audio and video in the same feed. In this episode, I break down what this update actually means for podcasters and whether it’s something you should be paying attention to right now. I cover how Apple Podcasts video works, what HLS streaming actually is in simple terms, and why this matters if you’re already publishing video podcasts on YouTube or Spotify. If you’ve been wondering whether Apple entering the video space changes your podcast distribution strategy, this video will help you understand where it fits and whether it’s worth adding to your workflow. I also talk about the practical side of video podcast production. That includes the extra costs that come with cameras, lighting, good audio, and creating a setup that actually looks good on screen. Not every podcast needs video, and not every creator should feel pressured to jump into video podcasting straight away. If your show works best as an audio-first podcast, that is still completely valid. I also get into the bigger questions around podcast monetisation, Apple Podcasts analytics, and whether uploading your show as a video podcast on Apple Podcasts could hurt your YouTube views or YouTube monetisation. If you’re a podcaster, content creator, or business owner trying to decide between audio vs video podcasting, this episode will help you think it through clearly. CHAPTER MARKERS 00:00 Apple Podcasts Adds Video 00:39 What Is HLS Video Streaming? 01:54 What This Means for Podcasters 02:54 Podcast Hosts Supporting Apple Video 04:13 Why Apple Video Podcasts Matter 06:42 Who Should Start Video Podcasting 08:36 Video Podcasting Pros and Cons 09:40 Will People Watch Video Podcasts on Apple? 11:52 Apple Podcast Ads and Analytics 14:13 Why YouTube Still Leads Video Podcasting 15:55 Big Questions About Apple Video Podcasts 17:18 My Podcast Platform Strategy 19:41 Final Thoughts on Apple Video Podcasts 20:26 Outro and Goodbye BAMBY MEDIA LINKS: Our Learn Descript Program (http://www.bambyacademy.com/learndescript) Monetising Your Podcast Course (https://www.bambyacademy.com/offers/8L4n4qQZ/checkout) YouTube Channel (https://www.youtube.com/@bambymedia) Our Services (https://www.bambymedia.com/services) GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA SE Dyncaster DCM8 (https://amzn.to/3SEWnkM) Elgato Wave Pro Arm (https://amzn.to/43DYUAG)  Rode PSA1+ (https://amzn.to/4oNn589) Shure MV7+ (https://amzn.to/3ScRe2g) Elgato Wave Mic Pro (https://puyp.captivate.fm/elgato-wave-pro) XLR Cables (https://amzn.to/3rkw0VO) Sony ZV E10 (https://amzn.to/3D0PP7h) Elgato Camlink (https://amzn.to/44e534X) Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light (https://amzn.to/3XGyGcx) Aputure Light Box Min (https://amzn.to/46yVxuG) Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend Focusrite Clarett+ (https://amzn.to/3NIr0SD) Rode Streamer X (https://amzn.to/49EOamv) Rodecaster Pro II (https://amzn.to/3In1QH1) Rodecaster Pro Duo (https://amzn.to/3Io09J9)

Is the Fifine Amplitank Tank 3 actually good, or just another cheap microphone that sounds terrible? After extensive testing at Bamby Media, I'm breaking down exactly what this budget-friendly mic does well and where it falls short. I'm usually skeptical of inexpensive audio gear - if it's cheap, it's often poor quality. But the Tank 3 surprised me with its performance at this price point. That said, it's not perfect, and I'm covering all the issues you need to know about before buying. What You'll Learn: ✅ Build quality and setup process (true plug-and-play USB) ✅ Real sound quality testing - vocals and singing ✅ Plosive handling issues (you'll need a pop filter) ✅ Sibilance problems and how to fix them in post ✅ USB vs XLR sound differences ✅ Bottom end performance and preamp requirements ✅ Who should actually buy this microphone The Tank 3 has legitimate limitations including poor plosive control, noticeable sibilance, and weaker bottom-end performance. But when you consider the price point, it delivers impressive value for beginner podcasters, musicians recording demos, and content creators who need better audio than their laptop microphone. This is an honest review with real-world testing - no hype, just practical insights to help you decide if this microphone fits your needs. Perfect for: Beginner podcasters, musicians on a budget, content creators, online educators, remote workers upgrading their audio. Full disclosure: Fifine provided the Tank 3 for review. This is my honest assessment after real-world testing. Affiliate links below - I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. CHAPTER MARKERS 00:00 Fifine Amplitank Tank 3 Review - Introduction 01:12 Unboxing the Budget Podcast Microphone - What's Included 03:05 Build Quality & Design - Affordable Studio Mic Construction 05:20 Setup & Features - USB Microphone for Beginners Guide 07:45 Microphone Sound Test - Plosive Test 09:10 Sibilance Test - High Frequency Response 10:30 Vocal Performance Test - Singing with Best Beginner Mic 12:15 Real-World Use & Sound Analysis - XLR vs USB Comparison 14:00 Pros and Cons - Budget Podcast Microphone Performance 15:30 Final Verdict - Is This the Best Beginner Mic for $79? BAMBY MEDIA LINKS: Monetising Your Podcast Course Our Learn Descript Program Try Descript GEAR WE USE TO PRODUCE THIS PODCAST: Amplitank Tank 3: https://amzn.to/4rlHJ0S SE Dyncaster DCM8 https://amzn.to/3SEWnkM Satechi Hub:  https://amzn.to/4bhuDtD Elgato Wave Mic Arm Pro https://amzn.to/3HfOUoM XLR Cables:  https://amzn.to/3SJyIje Focusrite Clarett+:  https://amzn.to/3UpqrSM Sony ZV E10 Mk 11 https://amzn.to/3MLXcnO Elgato Camlink:  https://amzn.to/4bjgYCe Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light:  https://amzn.to/4bhFXGe Aputure Light Box Mini: https://amzn.to/3u55T7m

If you're building a home recording studio, you've already discovered that you can’t really have a microphone without some sort of stand to get it in the right position. The desk stand versus boom arm debate is one of the most common questions I see from new podcasters and content creators, and the answer isn't as straightforward as most online advice suggests. Some people swear by the boom arm.  Others would rather a neat little desk stand. After testing the Elgato Wave Desk Stand (provided by Elgato for review) and configuring studio setups for clients at Bamby Media for years, I can tell you exactly when desk stands work, when boom arms are the better choice, and what factors actually matter for your specific setup. Choosing the right mic stand or boom arm can make a world of difference in your content creation process. Don’t underestimate the impact of a comfortable, clutter-free setup. It’s the foundation for great audio and a smooth workflow. Full disclosure: Elgato sent me the Wave Desk Stand to try out, but this review is entirely my own. No payment, no script, no expectations. Just my honest take after real-world use. If you decide to purchase through the links below, I may earn a small commission as an Amazon affiliate (thank you in advance). BAMBY MEDIA LINKS: Our Learn Descript Program Monetising Your Podcast Course YouTube Channel Our Services GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA Elgato Wave Desk Stand SE Dyncaster DCM8 Elgato Wave Pro Arm  Rode PSA1+ Shure MV7+ Elgato Wave Mic Pro XLR Cables Sony ZV E10 Elgato Camlink Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light Aputure Light Box Min Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend Focusrite Clarett+ Rode Streamer X Rodecaster Pro II Rodecaster Pro Duo

"You need at least 10,000 downloads per episode before sponsors will even look at you." If I had a dollar for every time I've heard this in podcasting circles, I'd have enough to sponsor someone's show myself. This advice has convinced countless podcasters that monetisation is off-limits until they hit some arbitrary download threshold. It's not just misleading, it's costing you money right now. After helping dozens of podcasters at Bamby Media secure their first sponsors, I can tell you that smaller shows have a distinct advantage that most creators haven’t explored: micro sponsorship. In this episode, I explain what micro sponsorship is, how it works, who to target and how much to charge. BAMBY MEDIA LINKS: Our Learn Descript Program Monetising Your Podcast Course YouTube Channel Our Services GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA: SE Dyncaster DCM8 Elgato Wave Mic Pro XLR Cables Sony ZV E10 Elgato Camlink Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light Aputure Light Box Min Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend Focusrite Clarett+ Rode Streamer X Rodecaster Pro II Rodecaster Pro Duo

Recent data from The Podcast Study reveals exactly why listeners abandon podcasts, and the results had me nodding my head in agreement vigorously. This comprehensive research into listener behaviour patterns is so valuable to every podcaster whether you’re an audio-only or video podcast. After analysing the findings of this study alongside our experience working with hundreds of podcast creators at Bamby Media, I can tell you the reasons people tune out are completely preventable - if you know what to fix. The Podcast Study deserves significant recognition for conducting this essential research. Understanding listener behaviour isn't just curiosity - it's crucial intelligence that helps podcasters create better content and build sustainable audiences. Their comprehensive analysis of what makes listeners engage versus what drives them away filled me with gratitude. This type of data-driven research is invaluable for our industry. Too often, podcasters operate on assumptions about what their audience wants rather than evidence-based insights. The Podcast Study's work gives creators concrete direction for improving their content and retention rates. You can access The Podcast Study's full research here.  I also did a full breakdown of the data over on YouTube. BAMBY MEDIA LINKS: Our Learn Descript Program YouTube Channel Our Services

In a world of doom scrolling and quick fixes, how do you get someone to actually stay on your content long enough to turn them into fans or listen to what you have to say? One element that makes a huge difference is the music that you use in your content. Music creates the vibe. It immediately gives the viewer or listener something to grab onto, and it sets them up for the experience that they’re going to have with your content.  In my opinion, loads of creators don’t spend long enough on this crucial step. You want to set the right mood. You want to be in charge of your “sonic branding”, and the right track can do this for you. But here's the problem: finding music that elevates your content rather than making it sound like everyone else's is genuinely challenging. Every content creator knows this frustration: you need a track that's professional, copyright-safe, and doesn't sound like every other video in your feed.  Traditional licensing meant grovelling to publishers for rights and paying premium rates for basic usage. Modern platforms like Artlist, Musicbed, and Soundstripe solved the accessibility problem but created a new one: limited variety at scale. I was recently approached by Audiosocket - a music library that I hadn’t used before. They asked me whether I’d be interested in trying their service, giving them some feedback, and potentially becoming an affiliate for them. This happens more frequently these days thanks to people enjoying my YouTube and podcast content, but I’m also always wary of saying “yes” to reach-outs like this. My thoughts need to be my own, and I’m not going to be affiliated with a brand just so that I can make a few extra bucks. That’s not my M.O.  So, I was in fact pleasantly surprised after using Audiosocket that I didn’t have to rip them to shreds for being terrible. They are, in fact a great music library with an absolute stack of fantastic songs.  What a relief that is. I can now happily talk about them, recommend them to you and be an affiliate without needing to sell my soul. 10% off Audiosocket with the code "BAMBY10" https://audiosocket.com/?fpr=bambymedia CHAPTER MARKERS 00:00 Introduction: Building Your Personal Brand with Video 00:57 The Challenge of Finding Good Music 02:57 The Solution: Music Libraries 04:11 Introducing Audiosocket 04:55 My Experience with Audiosocket 06:30 Why Audiosocket Stands Out 11:36 Final Thoughts and Discount Code

"Do I really sound like that?"  After editing thousands of hours of podcast content at Bamby Media, I can tell you this reaction is universal. It’s so common to have that moment of vocal horror when you hear your recorded voice for the first time. The way you think you sound can often be very different to how you actually sound, and it can be really confronting. Maybe you’re a mumbler, speed talker, “ummmm”er or you’re just boring as hell. It’s all valid, and I’ve heard it all.  The good news? Most vocal issues that make you cringe are completely fixable with the right techniques. In this videdo I will give you some tips to help you out. CHAPTER MARKERS: 00:00 Introduction: Overcoming Voice Insecurities 00:22 Warm-Up Techniques for a Better Sound 00:48 Common Voice Issues and How to Fix Them 02:05 Slowing Down Your Speech 04:59 The Power of Pausing 07:06 Improving Your Vocal Tone 10:42 Using Melody in Your Voice 12:35 Learning from the Experts 13:43 Conclusion and Final Tips BAMBY MEDIA LINKS: Book A Consultation Custom Review Of Your Audio/Edit YouTube Channel GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA: SE Dyncaster DCM8 Elgato Wave Mic Pro XLR Cables Sony ZV E10 Elgato Camlink Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light Aputure Light Box Min Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend Focusrite Clarett+ Rode Streamer X Rodecaster Pro II Rodecaster Pro Duo

How often do you start recording and then feel like you need to clear a bunch of gunk from your throat? You didn’t feel all gunked up beforehand, why is it happening just as you started recording? Mostly it’s due to not preparing your voice for recording before you started. You’re coming into the recording with a “cold” voice. Just like an athlete or a musician needs to warm up before they begin, so do podcasters. It’s not just podcasters either. If you’re preparing to record your audiobook or video content, these warm ups will really help you achieve a clearer, more relaxed sound. CHAPTER MARKERS 00:00 Introduction to Vocal Warm-Ups for Podcasters 01:22 Breathing Techniques to Calm Nerves 03:43 Silly but Effective Vocal Exercises 06:08 Projection and Siren Exercises 08:00 Tongue Twisters for Pronunciation 09:17 Final Tips for Recording BAMBY MEDIA LINKS: Book A Consultation Custom Review Of Your Audio/Edit YouTube Channel GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA: SE Dyncaster DCM8 Elgato Wave Mic Pro XLR Cables Sony ZV E10 Elgato Camlink Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light Aputure Light Box Min Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend Focusrite Clarett+ Rode Streamer X Rodecaster Pro II Rodecaster Pro Duo

Joe Rogan's $250 million Spotify deal and Smartless' $100 million Sirius XM contract aren't just industry anomalies - they're proof of podcasting's massive revenue potential. In fact, the podcasting industry is now a 7.2 billion dollar industry and counting.  I know you can look at those numbers and think, “Yeah, but that’s only for the really big shows”. But the reality is, there’s money to be made as an independent creator with a small listenership. You’ve just got to be willing to put in the work and get creative. After producing hundreds of podcasts with independent creators, I've identified which approaches deliver results for shows of all sizes.  In this episode, I break down what we’ve found to be the best ways to monetise your podcast.  CHAPTER MARKERS 00:00 Introduction: The Big Money in Podcasting 00:31 Making Money Without Millions of Listeners 01:54 Sponsorships: The Bread and Butter 03:14 Memberships: Crowdsourcing Your Show 04:10 Selling Your Knowledge and IP 05:45 Live Experiences: Engaging Your Audience 07:07 Products and Merchandising 08:28 YouTube: Expanding Your Reach 09:30 Podcast Networks: Joining Forces 10:24 Affiliate Marketing: Easy Income 11:17 Conclusion: Start Small, Think Big BAMBY MEDIA LINKS: Podcast Monetisation Mini-Course YouTube Channel GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA: Shure MV7+ SE Dyncaster DCM8 Elgato Wave Mic Pro XLR Cables Sony ZV E10 Elgato Camlink Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light Aputure Light Box Min Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend Focusrite Clarett+ Rode Streamer X Rodecaster Pro II Rodecaster Pro Duo

Let's cut straight to the point: the Shure MV7 Plus positions itself as the Swiss Army knife of microphones. With both XLR and USB capabilities in one sleek package, it's targeting everyone from podcast beginners to audio professionals. But after putting it through rigorous testing at Bamby Media's production studio, I can tell you exactly where it shines and where it falls short. BAMBY MEDIA LINKS: Book A Consultation Custom Review Of Your Audio/Edit YouTube Channel GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA: Shure MV7+ SE Dyncaster DCM8 Elgato Wave Mic Pro XLR Cables Sony ZV E10 Elgato Camlink Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light Aputure Light Box Min Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend Focusrite Clarett+ Rode Streamer X Rodecaster Pro II Rodecaster Pro Duo

To audio podcast or video podcast…that is the question. It is in fact, the question that I get the most during consultations with potential (or existing) clients. They’re trying to make a decision as to whether an audio only podcast fits their needs, or whether they need to invest in video and it’s all a bit confusing. I will say straight up - there is no one size fits all answer to this as every show is different, and their goals are different. But there are a few key points that are worth taking into consideration when you’re trying to make this decision for yourself. CHAPTER MARKERS 00:00 Introduction: Audio vs. Video Podcasts 00:45 The Simplicity of Audio-Only Podcasts 03:30 The Cost and Production of Audio vs. Video 06:15 The Appeal and Impact of Video Podcasts 08:40 The Benefits of Combining Audio and Video 16:13 Engagement and Community Building on YouTube 19:19 Conclusion and Final Thoughts BAMBY MEDIA LINKS: Book A Consultation Custom Review Of Your Audio/Edit YouTube Channel GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA: SE Dyncaster DCM8 Elgato Wave Mic Pro XLR Cables Sony ZV E10 Elgato Camlink Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light Aputure Light Box Min Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend Focusrite Clarett+ Rode Streamer X Rodecaster Pro II Rodecaster Pro Duo

I’ve tested and used a lot of podcasting equipment at this point in my career. Before I was a podcast producer, I was a musician, so the love of gear runs deep. Anything that I can get my hands on that is going to improve the sound or the functionality of my setup is something I get very excited about. I also feel like at this point I’ve learned the difference between good and great and I’m quite partial to a gear battle. So here we are. We’ve got two microphone boom arms in the arena that I have rigorously tested. The Elgato Wave Mic Pro and Rode PSA1+. They’ve both been tested in the studio here at Bamby Media HQ, and out on location in various recording environments. I’ve narrowed the battle down to a few key areas that are worth taking into consideration. Ladies and gentlemen, let’s begin. CHAPTER MARKERS 00:00 Introduction: The Battle Elgato Wave Mic Pro vs Rode PSA1+ 00:53 Boom Arm Aesthetics: Elgato vs. Rode 03:35 Cable Management Showdown 06:10 Noise and Sound Test 10:00 Setup and Customization 12:50 Branding and Final Thoughts 15:41 Conclusion and Personal Anecdote Full disclosure: Elgato sent me this Wave Mic Pro but all opinions are my own. They did not instruct me to make a video, an article, a podcast episode. They have had no input into my decision to battle or review this product. I purchased the Rode PSA1+ myself. No sponsorships influenced these findings - just real-world experience from hours of professional use. Where to Elgato Wave Mic Arm Pro: Australia - Amazon USA - Elgato Website Where to Buy Rode PSA1+ Australia - Amazon USA - Amazon  BAMBY MEDIA LINKS: Book A Consultation Custom Review Of Your Audio/Edit YouTube Channel GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA: SE Dyncaster DCM8 Elgato Wave Mic Pro XLR Cables Sony ZV E10 Elgato Camlink Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light Aputure Light Box Min Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend Focusrite Clarett+ Rode Streamer X Rodecaster Pro II Rodecaster Pro...

After a decade of producing podcasts with millions of downloads and testing countless pieces of audio gear at Bamby Media, let me cut straight to the chase: The Elgato Wave Mic Pro low profile boom arm is worth your attention.  Full disclosure: Elgato sent me this piece of kit, no strings attached. I didn’t have to review it, I didn’t have to record a video about it. The product was so just flippin’ good I felt compelled tell you all about it. My recommendations are always based on actual performance in professional production environments. For serious audio professionals, this boom arm eliminates the common frustrations we've all experienced with lesser equipment. While the price point sits higher than plastic alternatives, the professional build quality and reliable performance make it a great investment for long-term use. I don’t see a reason why you’d ever need to buy another one. Unless your studio space is increasing and you just need more booms! CHAPTER MARKERS 00:00 Introduction to the Elgato Low Profile Pro Boom Arm 00:41 First Impressions and Build Quality 02:03 Magnetic Cable Management 03:07 Silent Adjustments and Suspension Technology 03:54 Low Profile Design Benefits 06:33 Adapters and Compatibility 07:11 Pricing and Final Thoughts 07:59 Conclusion and Upcoming Reviews Where to Buy: Australia - Amazon USA - Elgato Website BAMBY MEDIA LINKS: Book A Consultation Custom Review Of Your Audio/Edit YouTube Channel GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA: SE Dyncaster DCM8 Elgato Wave Mic Pro XLR Cables Sony ZV E10 Elgato Camlink Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light Aputure Light Box Min Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend Focusrite Clarett+ Rode Streamer X Rodecaster Pro II Rodecaster Pro Duo

A little over a year ago I decided to start a YouTube channel for the Bamby Media brand. Not because we were searching for more clients, chasing extra revenue or I as the founder was interested in becoming a full-time content creator. Our mission was simple: Build a YouTube channel that serves as our live testing ground - a place where we could experiment, fail, and succeed with content strategies before implementing them for our clients' channels.  We needed to be the guinea pigs for strategies we wanted our clients to try. That is what landed me on YouTube creating content once a week. Over the last 12 months, I have learned many lessons that I felt would be valuable for the aspiring YouTuber to take into consideration.  So here they are for you.  You’re welcome. CHAPTER MARKERS 00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Video 00:35 Background and Initial YouTube Journey 01:14 Monetization Milestones and Early Experiences 02:32 Key Lessons for New YouTubers 04:05 Consistency and Content Quality 07:23 Engaging with the YouTube Community 08:46 Thumbnails, Titles, and Tools 10:40 Content Consumption and Scripting 12:43 Unexpected Successes and Viewer Needs 15:28 Finding Joy and Building Systems 18:03 Tracking Revenue and Subscriber Insights 21:50 Final Thoughts and Encouragement BAMBY MEDIA LINKS: Podcast Content Calendar Book A Consultation Custom Review Of Your Audio/Edit YouTube Channel GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA: SE Dyncaster DCM8 Rode Boom Arm XLR Cables Sony ZV E10 Elgato Camlink Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light Aputure Light Box Min Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend Focusrite Clarett+ Rode Streamer X Rodecaster Pro II Rodecaster Pro Duo

Is it too much to ask that we have a one-stop production suite for podcasters? All I want is a way to record episodes remotely, edit them to my exact specifications and then upload them to podcast platforms and/or YouTube for one monthly subscription fee. I don’t want to use a heap of different tools and sharing files across multiple platforms. I just want one place to handle it all.  This used to be something I thought to myself as I worked away on podcasts, and it felt completely out of reach. Surely no one-stop shop would exist. It’s too much for one software to handle.  Well, Descript is trying its hardest to give me exactly what I asked for. But it’s not succeeding yet. In this episode, I break down where Descript Rooms is at, and why I don’t recommend it for remote recording. CHAPTER MARKERS 00:00 Introduction to Podcast Recording 00:57 Overview of Descript Rooms 02:31 Testing Descript Rooms 03:25 Issues with Descript Rooms 06:22 Final Recommendations RESOURCES MENTIONED: Descript Riverside.fm BAMBY MEDIA LINKS: Podcast Content Calendar Book A Consultation Custom Review Of Your Audio/Edit YouTube Channel GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA: SE Dyncaster DCM8 Rode Boom Arm XLR Cables Sony ZV E10 Elgato Camlink Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light Aputure Light Box Min Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend Focusrite Clarett+ Rode Streamer X Rodecaster Pro II Rodecaster Pro Duo