Getting paid is one of the most important steps in running a thriving podcast editing business. How you invoice for your work can have a huge impact on your cash flow and profitability.

Eric Rosenberg shares some best practices when invoicing clients, as a freelancer, and the challenges of balancing your client's needs with our self-employed realities.

While listening, pay particular attention to the importance of strategic invoicing for peace of mind, the various payment models available, and how to leverage technology to automate your invoicing process.

• Invoice clients monthly for consistent cash flow
• For new clients or large projects, consider upfront or milestone payments
• Use an invoicing system to automate the process and save time
• Maintain detailed records for accounting and legal purposes
• Negotiate equitable payment terms with clients
• Clearly define project milestones for phased payments in complex projects

• freelancerdashboard.com

Eric is a financial writer, speaker, and consultant whose expertise lies in banking, credit cards, investing, cryptocurrency, insurance, real estate, business finance, and financial fraud and security.

His work has appeared in many online publications, including Time, USA Today, Forbes, Business Insider, Nerdwallet, Investopedia, and U.S. News & World Report.

Connect with him and learn more at EricRosenberg.com

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*Use of the above affiliate links may earn us a commission, which is used to support the efforts of this show. Thank you in advance for your support!

Mentioned in this episode:

The Podcast Editor Academy is open now!

Community. Support. Editing Courses. Copy/paste Sales Scripts. These are just a few of the things available inside the Podcasts Editor Academy, which is open right now... ...and you know it's open right now because you're hearing my voice and THIS IS A DYNAMICALLY INSERTED PROMO (which we also teach inside the PEA) Interested in learning more about the back end of podcasting? Or how to help clients to make their shows better? How to serve them better? Join during this limited time.

Podcast Editor Academy

What warning signs should podcast editors watch out for when working with clients? Matthew Bliss shares some of his recent “red flags” — those subtle (and not-so-subtle) signals that things might go wrong in a client relationship.

How many of these red flags have you experienced?

• Unclear expectations
• Poor communication
• Unreasonable turnaround times
• Late payments

Listen in on our candid stories, and arm yourself with some practical strategies for handling tricky situations.

Whether you’re a seasoned editor or just starting out, this show will deliver useful wisdom for building stronger, smoother client collaborations...and profit!

Key moments:

• How to identify common red flags with new and existing podcast clients
• Effective mitigation strategies for handling problem situations before they escalate
• The role of contracts, onboarding, and clear communication in protecting your work and wellbeing

Resources mentioned in the show:

Matthew's episode about "Avoiding Toxic Podcast Teams"

About Matthew Bliss:

Matthew is an Australian podcast engineer, producer, and educator who relocated from Australia to Ireland.

He has worked as IT Classroom Support & Digital Technologies Curriculum Support in schools, and as a trainer, digital workplace expert and learning development professional from his time in State Government in Australia.

And Matthew is the founder of MBPod.com, where he offers comprehensive production, consultation, and training services to indie and business podcasters.

Plus, he hosts and co-hosts a few shows himself!

Find Matthew Bliss at:

His website: mbpod.com

Connect with Matthew on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/matthew-bliss

Listen to Matthew's podcast: coffeepodcaster.com

Book a Consultation with Matthew (click here)

__________________________

*Riverside.fm to record

We used Riverside to record this episode. Use code Yetis at *https://creators.riverside.fm/Yetis for 15% off a membership plan.

*Castmagic.io for show notes

Castmagic assisted in the crafting of this episode description. It probably saved me 30 minutes by providing a summary and a list of chapters. Click on the *link above to see how it works for yourself!

*Captivate.fm for podcast media hosting

We use Captivate to host the podcast. Captivate offers amazing features for a low monthly price, including full control of dynamic insertion, embedded chapters, and Blocks/Shortcodes to quickly add content to show notes (either static or dynamically!)

*Use of the above affiliate links may...

Has YouTube won the podcasting game? It sure seems like it.

A recent study by Coleman Insights and Amplifi Media shares the perception of what the public thinks a podcast is, where they are discovering new shows, and some surprising information about Spotify's place in the video podcast landscape.

BONUS:

Steve shares "The Cost and ROI of YouTube videos" at the end. He gives real data behind a successful YouTube video that made $59,000 in ad revenue, and ideas for how you can speak to your potential client who wants to use YouTube to be successful.

• "What is a podcast" seems to be settled by consumers
• Video isn't just a Gen-Z thing
• YouTube still has room to grow
• Podcast listening hits the road
• Spotify is still an audio-first platform
• Social media takes the lead
• YouTube Premium adds complexity to monetization

• Full report video replay: State of Video Podcasting replay
• Article: Why The Rise Of Video Podcasting Is Not Killing Audio
• Pod Predictor: https://colemaninsights.com/podcasting/pod-predictor
• Article by Sounds Profitable: The Impact Spotify’s Video Has on Publishers
• Emma Sweet replay: YouTube's Algorythm

Jay joined Coleman Insights in 2017 after more than two decades of experience in the radio industry as a program director and on-air talent at stations covering a wide variety of formats in the United States.

He has launched multiple successful brands, coached some of entertainment’s brightest talents, and authored a memoir of life in radio. Today, Jay leads podcast research initiatives at Coleman, developing custom solutions for clients to grow strong brands and develop great content by deeply understanding the perceptions and desires of their target audiences.

Jay also co-authored “The New Rules Of Podcasting On YouTube,” a landmark 2023 study focused exclusively on video podcasting, and now "The State of Video Podcasting 2025” - as conducted by Coleman Insights and Amplifi Media

We use Captivate to host the audio episodes. Captivate offers amazing

features for a low monthly price, including full control of dynamic insertion, embedded chapters, and Blocks/Shortcodes to quickly add content to show notes (either static or dynamically!)

*Use of the above affiliate links may earn us a commission, which is used to support the efforts of this show. Thank you in advance for your support!

Jay and Steve went live using Riverside. Each person's track was recorded separately, and some video shorts were created with the click of a single button.

*Try StreamYard to see if it works as well for your live streams as it did for us.

For this episode we used...

Do you know how crucial YouTube thumbnails are to the success of a video? Andrew Armstrong reveals strategies to craft video thumbnails that grab attention and make people click Play!

Discover how the first impression provided by thumbnails can make or break your client's video's success, functioning as a gateway to garner viewers’ interest. Andrew shares how to leverage YouTube's built-in A/B testing tool to identify the most effective designs that keep audiences engaged.

The conversation also touches on how YouTube’s algorithm emphasizes search results based on watch time and audience behavior, shifting the focus from views to meaningful engagement.

• The fundamental role of thumbnails in stopping viewers’ scroll and encouraging video clicks
• How A/B testing tools on YouTube can optimize a video’s performance through effective thumbnail design
• The importance of analyzing watch time and audience behavior to refine thumbnail strategies for increased engagement

(00:00) "YouTube Thumbnails: What you need to know"

(03:18) Algorithm Reflects Audience Behavior

(07:28) Optimal Logo Placement Strategy

(10:07) Video Strategy: Success Elements

(14:14) Thumbnail Testing Strategy

(19:11) Assessing YouTube Channel Legitimacy

(22:57) Maximizing YouTube's Evergreen Potential

Andrew is a content creator, consultant, and storyteller passionate about helping individuals and businesses craft social media and digital content strategies.

He leverages his many years as a full-time YouTuber, and as an industry Social Media Strategist, to help content creators and companies better understand the platforms they work on, the best practices that lead to success, and the behaviors of their audiences.

His wife best describes him as "dangerously competent." For consultations, reach out to dawnforgedmedia@gmail.com

*Captivate.fm for media hosting

We use Captivate to host the audio episodes. Captivate offers amazing features for a low monthly price, including full control of dynamic insertion, embedded chapters, and Blocks/Shortcodes to quickly add content to show notes (either static or dynamically!)

*Use of the above affiliate links may earn us a commission, which is used to support the efforts of this show. Thank you in advance for your support!

*Riverside.fm to record audio and video

We used Riverside to record this episode. Use code Yetis at *https://creators.riverside.fm/Yetis for 15% off a membership plan.

*Castmagic.io for show notes

Castmagic assisted in the crafting of this episode description. It probably saved me 30 minutes by giving me a summary to start with and a list of chapters (which helps with the body of the description). Click on the *link above to see how it works for yourself!

This episode has been brought to you by Podcast Editor Academy. We help individuals like you start and grow a business editing and producing podcasts. Find out more at

Apple recently changed the way they display artwork in their Podcasts app.

This is important to note because there can be some negative consequences if you're not following a consistent process or even unaware, as Steve was, about adding artwork to each upload to your clients' media host.

Mathew Passy shares the benefits of having good Show artwork (for the entire podcast), and if there is any value in having Episodic artwork (for each episode).

Key Takeaways:

• The Benefits of a good thumbnail
• Using the headshots in Show artwork
• What NOT to include in Show artwork
• Are there benefits for using EPISODE artwork?
• Getting into Apple's Featured section
• How Apple displays Episode artwork (or not)
• Uploaded Episode artwork doesn't change if rebranding a show
• What about artwork for other reasons (chapters/sponsors)
• Changing Show artwork periodically to highlight events, themes, etc.

BTW: We will also be releasing an episode soon about VIDEO thumbnails. Be sure you subscribe to our newsletter so you don't miss that one: https://www.PodcastEditorAcademy.com/newsletter

The #1 reason RSS feeds stop updating is because the SHOW artwork is too large. When you take on a new editing client, be sure the specs of their SHOW artwork meets the same requirements posed by Apple:

https://podcasters.apple.com/support/896-artwork-requirements#shows

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About Mathew Passy:

Mathew has 15+ years of podcasting experience, starting with his first show at a NJ radio station. He spent 8 years as a podcast producer for The Wall Street Journal Radio Network and later founded ThePodcastConsultant.com, a successful podcast production and consulting agency, which he sold after 8 years.

Currently, Mathew runs Custom Podcast Solutions, focusing on comprehensive podcast support.

He also hosts Podcasting Tech and serves as a LibsynPro Customer Care Specialist at Libsyn.

Find him, and the cool NFT/beacons at https://conntap.com

*Riverside.fm to record

We used Riverside to record this episode. Use code Yetis at *https://creators.riverside.fm/Yetis for 15% off a membership plan.

*Castmagic.io for show notes

Castmagic assisted in the crafting of this episode description. It probably saved me 30 minutes by giving me a summary to start with and a list of chapters (which helps with the body of the description). Click on the *link above to see how it works for yourself!

*Captivate.fm for media hosting

We use Captivate to host the audio episodes. Captivate offers amazing features for a low monthly price, including full control of dynamic insertion, embedded chapters, and Blocks/Shortcodes to quickly add content to show notes (either static or dynamically!)

*Use of the above affiliate...

They say "The💰💰💰is in the list." Are you maximizing the potential of email lists and newsletters for your clients?

The importance of capturing listeners' email addresses can't be underestimated! Personalized welcome sequences ensure engagement and retention that eventually turns into a super-fan who will participate in whatever your client is offering.

Paul Gowder has been harnessing the power of newsletters for years - and comes on the show to share strategies for converting listeners into email subscribers.

Learn how to repurpose past podcast episodes into valuable content that can drive traffic and increase engagement rates. Plus, explore how effective email lists can boost a podcast's reach and complement other marketing efforts, like social media and live streams.

• Why an email list is crucial for growth and how to effectively capture subscriber emails
• The role of personalized welcome sequences and consistent content delivery to build and retain audience engagement
• Repurposing podcast content in newsletters to continually drive traffic (and provide it as a service to your clients)!

(00:00) Paul’s 25+ Years of Growing a List

(06:11) Improving Email Welcome Sequences

(07:24) Converting Podcast Listeners to Subscribers

(10:22) Maximize Podcast Reach with Newsletters

(13:11) Engaging Personally via Newsletters

(19:18) Maximizing Newsletter Value

(26:10) Automated Subscriber Management Solutions

For over 25 years, Paul has been the driving force behind PowWows.com, the largest online community celebrating Native American culture, arts, and traditions. What started as a passion project has grown into a thriving hub, connecting millions of people with the beauty and spirit of Pow Wows.

Paul knows the power of community—because he built one of the most engaged online spaces in the world. His expertise in website development, content creation, social media, and email marketing has not only fueled the success of PowWows.com but also helped countless entrepreneurs grow their own online businesses.

A pioneer in live streaming, blogging, and podcasting, Paul brings the energy of Pow Wows directly to millions of viewers through his website and YouTube channel. With hundreds of Pow Wows visited across North America, he captures and shares the sights, sounds, and stories that make these gatherings so special.

But Paul isn’t just about building communities—he’s about empowering others to do the same. Through public speaking and consulting, he shares his hard-earned insights on navigating the highs and lows of running an online business.

Learn more from Paul at paulgowder.com/podcast

*Riverside.fm to record

We used Riverside to record this episode. Use code Yetis at *https://creators.riverside.fm/Yetis for 15% off a membership plan.

*Castmagic.io for show notes

Castmagic assisted in the crafting of this episode description. It probably saved me 30 minutes by giving me a summary to start with and a list of chapters (which helps with the body of the description). Click on the *link above to see how it works for yourself!

What makes a podcast episode truly engaging - and keeps listeners coming back? The importance of maintaining a structured yet flexible format can’t be stressed enough by our guest, Wendy Wawrzyniak.

Our discussion, no matter which way we turned, ended up landing on one form of consistency or another. Consistency not only enhances a listener’s enjoyment but can also promote sustainability and growth.

Guess what: Consistency also benefits Podcast Editors like you too!

• Why predictability in podcast formats keeps audiences engaged and builds community
• The role of podcast editors as managers and consultants to improve show structure and format
• Tips to streamline production and make better podcasts

(00:00) "Podcast Consistency Over Structure"

(06:07) Keeping listeners engaged mid-episode

(07:20) Consistency: The way to earn Trust with an audience

(10:38) When a podcast changes their episode format

(12:37) Using a compelling clip as a “cold open”

(14:55) How consistency during recording benefits the Podcast Editor

(18:31) Insight on Directing a Podcast

Wendy is an experienced educator, speaker, and consultant, specializing in AP History instruction and content creation strategies. As the founder of AP History Help, she provides online courses, tutoring, and resources to help students excel in AP History courses.

With a background in virtual teaching and curriculum development, Wendy has also created The World is Your Classroom, where she has expanded her expertise to the podcasting world, speaking twice at Podfest and serving as an education consultant for conferences.

She is now leveraging her experience to help podcasters improve their show structure, audience engagement, and presentation skills.

Find her at https://TheWorldisYourClassroom.net

• Connect with Wendy on Instagram
• Connect with Wendy on Facebook
• Connect with Wendy on LinkedIn

• Can you find the content edit points? Send Steve an email with the timestamp(s)
• Want to watch the entire 32 minute, unedited video recording? Email Steve

*Riverside.fm to record

We used Riverside to record this episode. Use code Yetis at *https://creators.riverside.fm/Yetis for 15% off a membership plan.

*Castmagic.io for show notes

Castmagic assisted in the crafting of this episode description. Of course, we removed the phrases “Join us as we dive into”, “Uncover the secret behind” and “elevate your podcasting game” - because we also edit our copy!

What are the consequences of hiring the wrong client? What if you need to make money but don't have any good clients yet? Do you start with UpWork or Fiverr?

Ashley Dickerson-Ellison shares some great stories about leaving her teaching job when they moved overseas for a couple years. She starting her podcast editing business and did what many of us do: Offered services on UpWork.

Make sure you stay to the end for the story about the guy who interrupted her trip, then came back and asked if she had references. It's a horrible, but funny story I think we can all relate to.

• The cost of lower-value clients on commodity job websites
• The mental shift from an employee to self-employed mindset
• Building a personal brand with a podcast and website
• The importance of getting help

Episode Notes: https://podcasteditorsmastermind.com/episode/the-mental-health-of-hiring-the-wrong-client

Ashley Dickson-Ellison has been in the podcasting world since 2018 with the launch of Unabridged, a podcast about books.

She has 17 years of working in education before transitioning to full time podcast work in 2021.

Ashley founded and runs Unabridged Digital Media Solutions, LLC, where she supports podcast launches, offers podcast consultations and strategy support, and provides ongoing podcast management with a full suite of services for several partners.

In her free time, you'll find Ashley exploring the world and spending time outside with her life partner and two daughters. Find her at https://www.ashleydicksonellison.com

Connect with Ashley:

• https://www.ashleydicksonellison.com

Mentioned in this episode:

Special Office Hours on May 27th!

This is a dynamically inserted promo. You'll know it's a dynamically inserted because we have a special conversation happening with Ashley Dixon Ellison on May 27, 2025. And if you're seeing this after May 27, 2025 - then I didn't do my job by replacing this dynamic ad! On May 27th, we're going to talk about SETTING UP AD CAMPAIGNS IN CAPTIVATE.FM with special guest Ashley Dickson-Ellison. This is a Podcast Editor Academy only event that's going to be happening on May 27th at 3 p.m. Eastern / 12noon Pacific time zone. Make sure you are a member of the Podcast Editor Academy by that date so we can get you in there. We will be recording it so it will be available for replay, but again, only for Podcast Editor Academy members. Sign up at podcasteditoracademy.com Make sure you do it before THIS AD DYNAMICALLY DESTRUCTS on May 27th, 2025!

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