The Anycast with Matt Levine

The Anycast - powered by CacheFly About The Anycast https://www.theanycast.com/about/ The Anycast – powered by CacheFly celebrates the tech disruptors, digital pioneers, innovators, code warriors, and unconventional thinkers who refuse to conform to corporate norms. From the entrepreneurial rule-breakers, rule-makers, and rule-benders, reshaping the future with their boundless creativity to entertain and educate the world, to those charting a new course in the world of technology innovation. Our guests have one thing in common, they perceive and reimagine the world through a unique lens, breaking boundaries and pushing the limits of what’s possible. About CacheFly For over two decades, since developing the world’s first TCP-anycast based Content Delivery Network, CacheFly has been the only network built for throughput. From the first byte to the last byte, CacheFly delivers your files faster. While CacheFly is verifiably the fastest CDN on the planet, they are also a true partner to their customers, aligning strategies to deliver high-demand content everywhere end-users are. CacheFly has built out unique, superior architecture in emerging markets delivering the highest QoE for digital platforms everywhere on the globe. Learn why many of the world’s most trusted brands trust CacheFly to deliver their content. Visit us at cachefly.com.

ICYMI - 20 Years at the Edge of Tech and Audio with Leo Laporte 07/24/2025

20 Years at the Edge of Tech and Audio with Leo Laporte 07/17/2025

20 Years at the Edge of Tech and Audio with Leo Laporte Matt Levine chats with Leo Laporte, a podcasting legend and founder of TWiT.tv, an Internet podcast network focusing on technology. They discuss the early days of podcasting, how tech media has shifted, and what it takes to stay relevant when trends change overnight. Learn how to grow a podcast that lasts, why niche matters more than ever, and what most creators get wrong about discovery and audience loyalty. Leo starts by explaining how he became tech radio’s go-to guy. He loved being on-air, but didn’t love the topics people expected from talk radio. So he carved out a space that let him dive into something he genuinely cared about—technology. Why Leo started a podcast network in 2005—before most people even knew what a podcast was. Leo explains what it was like being one of the first 10 podcasters in the world. Leo on the most important aspect of podcasting: “You need to know your audience. The more general a show is, the more difficult it is to promote it.” Leo explains just how easy it is to start a podcast today. All you need is a laptop and a mic. Unfortunately, this simplicity is both a blessing and a curse. Leo says the barrier to entry has never been lower. But that also means the space is noisy, crowded, and competitive. Starting is easy; being found is the real challenge. Leo highlights why discoverability—not content—is what kills most podcasts today. Even the best ideas can get buried if no one knows you exist. Matt asks if discoverability can be fixed—and Leo says yes. However, it’s not about better SEO or thumbnails. It’s about being on platforms that are built to make things go viral like TikTok, Instagram, YouTube. Leo shares how they post twice daily on all platforms and why short clips are key to long-term growth. You can’t always track what’s working, but you can see when momentum starts to build. Why the top 20 podcasts dominate half the ad revenue, and what that imbalance means for everyone else. If you’re not already at the top, you’re fighting over scraps. That’s why niche, loyalty, and consistency matter for the smaller podcasters. Leo shares what COVID taught him about brand courage. The companies that kept showing up grew. Meanwhile, brands that pulled back lost their visibility and trust. Understand how podcast advertising has shifted away from consumer brands to niche B2B partners. Matt and Leo unpack why going niche is the smartest move a creator can make right now. Broad topics make it harder to build connection and loyalty. When you know exactly who you're talking to, they know exactly why they should listen. Specificity is your superpower. Leo explains why remote work weakens small teams in ways people often underestimate. Matt shares how remote teams can work—but it takes unnatural amounts of structure and intention. You can’t just hope the culture will carry itself. You have to manufacture connections on purpose. Otherwise, people drift—even when they’re online every day. Leo shares why AI isn’t a threat to content creators, it’s a tool to be used with intention. He’s not worried about being replaced. He’s more focused on how to integrate AI in ways that save time and amplify creativity. Leo’s take on AI in podcasting, especially when it comes to editing and marketing. There are tools now that can help you clip, caption, and distribute without a huge team. The trick is knowing what job you're trying to solve. Not every tool fits every creator. Leo breaks down how the YouTube algorithm is shifting—and why short-form content is the next big opportunity. With TikTok facing pressure, YouTube is positioning Shorts as its successor. That means if you're a podcaster, creating short clips is a must. Why Leo believes chasing trends is a waste of energy—and what to do instead. If you stay true to what excites you, the trends eventually circle back. People can feel when something’s authentic, and when that happens, attention follows. Leo on the future of podcasting—it won’t be just audio anymore. Video, community, and personality are what people crave. For example, YouTube is where people are going right now. If you’re not on it, you’re missing where the next generation already is. Mentioned in This Episode: by Henry Laporte /episode/index/show/d33ab0e3-b919-4100-b864-a2e6406d8cce/id/37370010

Anycast season 2 episode 14 trailer with Leo Laporte 07/10/2025

ICYMI - Protect What You’re Building: Podcasting Smarter with Gordon Firemark, The Podcast Lawyer 07/03/2025

Protect What You’re Building: Podcasting Smarter with Gordon Firemark, The Podcast Lawyer 06/26/2025

Protect What You’re Building: Podcasting Smarter with Gordon Firemark, The Podcast Lawyer Matt Levine chats with Gordon Firemark, the CEO of Firemark Enterprises and a leading voice in entertainment law. They discuss the legal side of podcasting, what creators get wrong about copyright, why “fair use” isn’t a free pass, and how to avoid costly mistakes with content and licensing. Learn how to protect your podcast, navigate grey areas, and stay one step ahead as the industry evolves. Gordon shares how a podcast guest spot back in 2006 changed the course of his legal and podcasting career. Learn why saying yes to small opportunities can start something way bigger than you expect. Gordon explains the one mindset shift that helps him stand out in a sea of 4 million shows. Gordon explains the difference between podcasting in 2009 and today. Gordon reveals what most podcasters still get wrong about copyright, and why good intentions won’t save you in court. Gordon shares how he built trust with a niche audience, and explains why his audience tunes in every week. Learn the legal blind spot Gordon says most beginner podcasters have. He also reveals how “freedom of speech” can land you in trouble. How to tell if your podcast idea is a smart niche or not. Gordon explains the two filters he uses to tell if a niche is worth pursuing. Gordon explains why thinking of yourself as a small creator is a mistake, even if you only have 10 listeners. What you say still carries weight and counts legally. Mark asks what makes YouTube outperform Spotify in podcast growth. Gordon shares the subtle tech shift that makes all the difference, as it's not just about video. Gordon breaks down the myth of ”fair use” with a simple example that will make you rethink how you clip content. Learn how Gordon sees the future of podcast monetization, and why ad money isn’t the only route. What he suggests for smaller creators might be the fastest route to profitability. Matt and Gordon agree that AI won’t replace podcasters, but could still create a different kind of legal headache that goes beyond copyright. Gordon shares the line between inspiration and infringement when using AI-generated content. Knowing where that line is might save you more than just legal fees. Matt challenges Gordon on whether podcasters are influencers. Gordon believes every content creator with an audience is an influencer. As an influencer, every word you share carries weight, because even the best intentions can be misunderstood by parts of your audience. Learn why Gordon believes podcasters need legal representation just like Hollywood creatives, and why he feels creators should get representation in Congress. Gordon explains why entertainment law is more complicated than most lawyers admit, and how small misunderstandings could land you in trouble. How to avoid the most common mistake podcasters make when quoting or sharing other people's content. Gordon reveals the legal principle most creators overlook when it comes to copyright laws. Gordon shares what he thinks will happen in podcasting over the next five years, and why it’s not too late to launch your own podcast. Discover how Gordon uses AI in his own podcast production, and why he’s not afraid of it, but is intentionally careful with it. His approach could save you time and keep you protected. Mentioned in This Episode: Get the Follow Gordon on /episode/index/show/d33ab0e3-b919-4100-b864-a2e6406d8cce/id/37117065

Anycast season 2 episode 13 trailer with Gordon Firemark 06/19/2025

ICYMI - Fiercely Independent: Podcasting with Purpose with Dave Hamilton 06/12/2025

Fiercely Independent: Podcasting with Purpose with Dave Hamilton 06/05/2025

Fiercely Independent: Podcasting with Purpose with Dave Hamilton Matt Levine chats with Dave Hamilton, Founder of BackBeat Media. They discuss what it really takes to build a podcast—from building community and attracting sponsors to maintaining top-tier audio quality and treating your show like a business. Dave shares hard-earned insights from nearly 20 years behind the mic, including how to get your first 25,000 listeners, why most podcasters quit too early, and what separates the pros from the rest. Learn how to grow your audience, build a sustainable podcasting brand, and create a show listeners genuinely care about. Dave shares how the Mac Geek Gab podcast went from 1,000 to 25,000 listeners, three weeks after Apple added podcasts to iTunes. Dave highlights the two rules that became the foundation of his podcast: always release on time, and never compromise on audio quality. To him, consistency wasn’t just about discipline, it was a promise to the listener that they could count on the show to show up and sound good every single time. Dave believes poor audio wears people out because bad audio makes it hard to focus, and that makes it harder for your audience to care about you. Dave emphasizes that building a loyal audience is less about numbers and more about ownership. When people feel like the show belongs to them and they’re part of the community, they stick around longer, engage more, and tell their friends. Dave explains the benefits of getting a listener to financially support your show. The moment someone gives you even a dollar, they become twice as invested in following your podcast. Dave questions the logic of removing ads for paying supporters. He argues that if someone values your show enough to pay for it, they’re also likely to value your sponsors, especially if those sponsors are a good fit. Mark and Dave explain why your audience shouldn’t feel like they’re being sold to—they should feel like they’re being shown something useful by someone they trust. That’s how sponsorship becomes service, not interruption. Dave insists on vetting every potential sponsor by asking: Will this resonate with my audience? Can I genuinely get behind this? If you can’t speak about a product with conviction, your audience will hear it, and the trust you’ve built could evaporate. Dave describes what it means to be a fiercely independent podcaster. Dave shares a powerful truth about discoverability: most podcast listeners are looking for their next favorite show. The easiest way to get in front of them is to partner with other podcasters, promote each other’s work, and give your audience new voices to trust. Dave reminds us that podcasting is one of the most intentional media formats in the world. No one stumbles into a podcast; every listener has already opted in, and that level of buy-in makes the connection between host and audience deeply valuable. Dave leans into the concept of 1,000 true fans. He believes that when you build an audience that shows up for you, not just your content, you’re already halfway to financial sustainability. Dave believes the best podcasters sit in front of the mic because they have something to say, and they say it with conviction. If others listen, great. But the drive comes from within. Dave shares a powerful insight: if one person reaches out, whether to thank you or argue with you, you’ve won. That kind of emotional reaction means they’re invested, and that kind of listener will come back. Matt and Dave break down the critical early drop-off point for podcasters. Most people quit before episode 10. But if you can stay consistent for six months, you massively increase your odds of long-term success. Dave draws a line between podcasting and music. A good podcaster, like a good musician, doesn’t just deliver sound—they create a feeling. Dave outlines the traits that define great podcasters: discipline, sincerity, curiosity, and a genuine desire to serve. You don’t need to be a performer—you need to be someone worth listening to. According to Dave, we’re still in the early innings of podcasting. Despite how crowded it feels, the majority of people still don’t listen regularly. That means the biggest opportunities haven’t even hit yet. Dave sees podcasting as the most effective form of modern word-of-mouth. When a trusted voice says, “go check this out,” people act on it. And that’s what makes podcast advertising, done right, so powerful. Dave ends with a message of hope: there are infinite corners of the market still unclaimed—and if you’re willing to show up with consistency and care, one of them can be yours. Mentioned in This Episode: The inaugural episode of /episode/index/show/d33ab0e3-b919-4100-b864-a2e6406d8cce/id/36781615

Anycast season 2 episode 12 trailer with Dave Hamilton 05/29/2025

ICYMI - The Evolution of Podcasting with Hall of Famer Dave Jackson 05/22/2025

The Evolution of Podcasting with Hall of Famer Dave Jackson 05/15/2025

The Evolution of Podcasting with Hall of Famer Dave Jackson Matt Levine chats with Dave Jackson, Head of Podpage and founder of The School of Podcasting. Dave shares how he got started in podcasting, the lessons he’s learned across nearly two decades, and why staying true to your audience matters more than ever. They discuss the early struggles of launching a show, the right way to grow without losing your voice, how AI is reshaping content creation, and the real keys to standing out in a crowded podcasting world. Dave shares how he got into podcasting back in 2006, launched The School of Podcasting, worked for Libsyn for eight years, and got inducted into the Podcast Hall of Fame. Dave gets honest about the painful early days of launching a podcast in 2006 — when the tech was clunky, the process was ugly, and few people knew what a podcast was. Dave explains why the first few minutes of a podcast should set the tone and direction for the entire episode. Dave shares the easiest way to get more clicks on your podcast: write amazing titles and then make sure you deliver on the promise that’s on your titles. Dave explains his view on AI in podcasting: he’s not anti-AI, but warns that podcasters can’t afford to get lazy. Personality matters, and if you strip that out, you risk losing what makes your show special. How podcasting is different from radio and why podcasters should resist cramming shows with ads the way radio did. Dave and Matt share their thoughts on what really defines a podcast. For them, if it’s wrapped in an RSS feed, it counts — which makes them a little skeptical about stats that claim YouTube is now the top way to find podcasts. Matt brings up a powerful point: whenever you put an algorithm between you and your audience, you risk shifting your focus from serving your people to pleasing the algorithm. According to Dave, YouTube monetization can quietly pulls creators away from focusing on their listeners. The more you chase impressions and ad dollars, the easier it is to forget about the people you're actually creating for. Matt and Dave discuss how podcasters can balance creating for their audience while still navigating the algorithm. Dave uses a "three-legged stool" analogy to explain sustainable podcasting: you need your health, your attitude, and strong support around you. Lose one, and the whole thing can fall apart. Matt and Dave break down two of the biggest challenges in podcasting today: discovery and audience building. Dave’s advice for new podcasters: get feedback early. Make your first episode as good as possible, share it with people and ask them what they think. Dave points out the mistake most new podcasters make: they obsess over tech, microphones, and platforms, when in reality, listeners only care about good content. Dave talks about self-promotion and why it shouldn’t feel salesy if you genuinely believe in your product and your mission to help people. The two must-haves for podcasting success:you need to know exactly who your audience is, and your 'why.' Matt and Dave explore the fine line between AI and podcasting. For Matt, technology will always keep moving forward. Rather than resist it, creators need to accept, adjust, and evolve with it. Matt makes a sharp distinction: AI and language models are good at facts but they can't capture meaning. Turning facts into something truly meaningful still takes a human touch. Matt and Dave agree that what separates a good show from a bad show is not tech tricks or having celebrities as guests, it’s whether your content genuinely gives people what they came for. Dave shares his definition of a great podcast: it needs to make you laugh, cry, think, groan, educate, or entertain. Dave explains why great podcasts aren’t just about great content, they’re about how that content is delivered. You can have the best material, but if the delivery is bad, it won’t connect. Dave gets real about the early days of starting a podcast: when you start, you’ll often be talking to nobody, for no money, and for a long time. You have to love your subject so much that you’d do it anyway. Dave looks back on how different podcasting was in 2006 compared to today — and shares his honest thoughts about where he believes the space is heading by 2030. Mentioned in This Episode: Access Dave’s by Dave Jackson by Tom Webster /episode/index/show/d33ab0e3-b919-4100-b864-a2e6406d8cce/id/36501635

Anycast season 2 episode 11 trailer with Dave Jackson 05/08/2025

ICYMI - Entertainment for Your Ears, While Your Eyes are Busy: Spoken Word Audio with James Cridland 05/01/2025

Entertainment for Your Ears, While Your Eyes are Busy: Spoken Word Audio with James Cridland 04/24/2025

Entertainment for Your Ears, While Your Eyes are Busy: Spoken Word Audio with James Cridland Matt Levine chats with James Cridland, a radio veteran and the mind behind Podnews, a daily podcast and newsletter covering the podcasting industry. With over 1,930 podcast episodes and newsletters, James shares his insights on why audio is still king, even as podcasts with video gain traction. They discuss the real advantage of audio, how podcasting thrives as the ultimate multitasking medium, and why time spent listening matters more than audience size. James starts by explaining how radio and podcasting are fundamentally different. James shares how he managed to sustain a daily podcast and newsletter for over 1930 episodes. He reveals the systems and tricks he’s developed to automate the boring stuff so he can focus on what truly matters. The one thing that will make podcasting sustainable for you. It’s not about working harder—it’s about removing friction and maximizing creative energy. James on the shortcuts that make podcasting easier over time. When you’ve done something long enough, you naturally find the fastest, most effective way to get the job done. Why James started podcasting and writing a daily newsletter. He shares what drew him to both and why they’ve remained central to his work. Podcast growth vs. newsletter growth—how do they compare? James breaks down the trajectory of both and some surprising stats about their long-term trends. James on why slow, steady podcast growth is actually a good thing. Rapid growth can kill a medium, but a strong foundation makes all the difference. Matt and James discuss the state of podcasting today. They cover how the industry has evolved and where it’s headed next. James reveals why focusing on time spent listening matters more than audience size. The goal of every podcast should be getting people to spend as much time listening to podcasts rather than focusing on increasing the size of the audience. What is the best way to grow the podcasting industry? According to James, it’s not just about getting more listeners—it’s about getting current listeners to engage more deeply. Matt shares his thoughts on what podcasters are really competing for. It’s not downloads, subscribers, or ad dollars—it’s attention. James on the one advantage podcasting has over every other medium--podcasting is the original multitasking medium. Unlike YouTube, Netflix, or TikTok, podcasts let you consume content while doing other things. How to actually build an audience that sticks with you. James believes mass-market podcasts struggle—niche audiences are where you win. James and Matt cover the key to keeping listeners coming back. Consistency in release time and frequency builds habits, and breaking that habit makes it easy to lose an audience. Is YouTube really the best platform for podcasts? James explains why it’s overhyped—and what the numbers really say. How James decides which podcasting stories and news to highlight. His process for sifting through the noise and finding what truly matters. Podcast consumption—how does the US compare globally? James shares surprising insights on where podcasting is growing fastest and where monetization is harder. Matt and James discuss why US content isn’t dominating globally. In the UK, for example, only two US shows make the top 25 podcasts. AI and podcasting—should creators be worried? James sees AI as a tool that can create both terrible and amazing content—it’s all about how you use it. James’ best advice for new podcasters: Pick a niche, stay consistent, and don’t expect overnight success. He adds, “It's much easier to focus on a niche than it is to launch another Joe Rogan experience, which is why there isn't another Joe Rogan out there.” Why you should start your podcast today, even if you feel unprepared. No one listens to your first episode unless you want them to—so just get started. Mentioned in This Episode: /episode/index/show/d33ab0e3-b919-4100-b864-a2e6406d8cce/id/36222820

Anycast season 2 episode 10 trailer with James Cridland 04/17/2025

ICYMI - Crafting the Perfect Podcast Sound Through Automation and Artistry with Christoph Grasser 04/10/2025

Crafting the Perfect Podcast Sound Through Automation and Artistry with Christoph Grasser 04/03/2025

Crafting the Perfect Podcast Sound Through Automation and Artistry with Christoph Grasser Matt Levine sits down with Christoph Grasser, an audio engineer, musician, producer, and the head of strategy for Auphonic, an all-in-one audio post-production web tool. They discuss why finding a loyal niche audience is more valuable than chasing viral success, how to not let technical barriers kill your ideas, why most people still prefer audio podcasts, and how AI will make content creation more accessible. Chris starts by sharing his journey from supporting artists behind the scenes to becoming the head of strategy at Auphonic. Matt and Chris discuss why cleaning up audio is so satisfying. There’s a deep sense of fulfillment in taking raw, imperfect recordings and transforming them into something clear and professional. Chris’s #1 pet peeve in podcasting: poorly produced audio due to lack of effort. It’s not about having the most expensive gear—it’s about caring enough to make an effort. Chris explains why he gets frustrated when he hears podcasts with bad audio quality. The myth of the dying audio engineer—why AI and automation won’t replace them. Some people think that with AI tools, human audio engineers will become obsolete. Chris disagrees, explaining why technology can assist but not replace the ear, skill, and creative touch of a trained audio professional. Why most podcasters just want simplicity and getting content out matters more than perfection. Too many people with valuable stories never start a podcast because the technology seems overwhelming. Chris believes the real goal should be removing these barriers so that everyone can get their message out. Chris and Matt discuss the power of podcasting and why it’s one of the few art forms where creative independence still thrives. Unlike traditional media, podcasting doesn’t require approval from gatekeepers. Matt and Chris discuss how this freedom allows creators to experiment, find their voice, and connect with their audiences. Understand that not every podcast will blow up, and that’s okay. Your goal as a podcaster should be finding and serving your core fans who love what you do. Most podcasts won’t go viral, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t successful. Matt and Chris share how finding a loyal niche audience is often more valuable than trying to appeal to the masses. Chris on the unique element of podcasting: Unlike other media, podcasting creates an intimate connection between the speaker and the listener. This personal touch is what makes podcasts so powerful and enduring. In a world of AI-generated content and social media noise, people crave real, human interactions. Chris believes that the most successful podcasts in the future will be the ones that build genuine relationships with their audiences. Chris highlights why video podcasting is blowing up in the U.S. but still trailing in Europe. Learn how AI and better tools will lower the barrier to entry, making content creation easier than ever. Chris reveals what a new generation of podcast listeners wants, and how podcasters can serve younger audiences who are used to consuming content in quick, bite-sized clips. Why skill doesn’t equal popularity when it comes to podcasting—Matt and Chris share their thoughts on why some of the most talented creators go unnoticed, while others with less skill thrive. Success in the creative space is often more about marketing, timing, and audience connection than pure ability. The real reason top podcasts succeed. It’s not content quality, it’s marketing. Many of the biggest podcasts don’t have the best production or most insightful discussions. Chris explains how branding, consistency, and visibility often matter more than raw content quality. According to Matt, people don’t care if a YouTube video is in 4K or 1080p, but they do care if it’s blurry and unwatchable. Chris shares his thoughts on why the most extreme voices attract the biggest audiences. In today’s media landscape, anger and controversy generate more engagement than thoughtful discussion. Chris’s trick for getting the right answers online—just post the wrong answer. How AI is viewed differently in the U.S. vs. Europe. AI in podcasting: a tool or shortcut? AI can be a powerful assistant, but Chris believes using it to remove all effort from content creation leads to soulless, uninspired work. He believes effort and struggle are key parts of creativity. Chris’s advice for launching an audio career: Put yourself out there. No amount of theory or training can replace real-world experience. Mentioned in This Episode: /episode/index/show/d33ab0e3-b919-4100-b864-a2e6406d8cce/id/35894985

Anycast season 2 episode 9 trailer with Christoph Grasser 03/27/2025

ICYMI - Beyond the Headlines: Balancing Journalism, Community, and AI with Erica Mandy 03/20/2025

Beyond the Headlines: Balancing Journalism, Community, and AI with Erica Mandy 03/13/2025

Beyond the Headlines: Balancing Journalism, Community, and AI with Erica Mandy Matt Levine talks with Erica Mandy, Founder and Host of The NewsWorthy, an award-winning daily news podcast. They discuss Erica’s bold leap from TV news reporting to podcasting and why she felt compelled to create a more accessible, less anxiety-inducing way for people to stay informed. She shares the challenges of starting and growing a news podcast, how she curates engaging yet unbiased content, and the lessons she’s learned from releasing over 1,000 episodes. Erica starts by explaining why she left TV news for podcasting. She wanted to create a better way for people to stay informed—one that didn’t rely on anxiety-inducing breaking news alerts or require hours of daily commitment. Why was podcasting the perfect fit? Unlike TV or print, podcasts let people listen on their own time—during a commute, while cooking, or even at the gym—making news more accessible. Erica shares how she overcame the fear of competition. She acknowledges that new podcasters often worry about competition, but she believes multiple voices can coexist, each bringing something unique to the table. Matt breaks down the biggest myth in entrepreneurship. People think an idea is the most valuable asset in a business, but in reality, execution determines success. Even a world-changing idea is worthless without action. Erica and Matt discuss what it’s like to be underestimated. She opens up about being doubted throughout the first months of launching a podcast and how she turned skepticism into motivation to succeed. Matt and Erica discuss the role of AI in podcasting. AI can streamline parts of the podcasting process, but it’s still just a tool, not a replacement for human creativity. Why AI isn’t ready to replace human storytelling. Erica believes AI can assist with production, but it lacks the depth, nuance, and emotional intelligence needed to create engaging content from scratch. The secret to making a podcast feel personal – listeners connect with hosts who feel and sound real. For Erica, a successful show isn’t just about downloads. It’s about engagement. Erica prioritizes interacting with listeners, gathering feedback, and making them feel heard. Erica breaks down the news curation process—how she picks what to cover – With so much happening daily, her key filter is: Does this story impact my listener? If it doesn’t, it’s not worth including. Erica’s goal isn’t just to update people—it’s to offer multiple perspectives, avoid bias, and ensure the news feels trustworthy. Erica and Matt discuss the challenge of capturing attention without clickbait. While sensationalism dominates the media, Erica believes you can be engaging without sacrificing integrity. Matt and Erica agree that extreme voices dominate social media. Algorithms reward outrage. Controversy keeps people engaged—even if they disagree—so the loudest, most divisive figures often rise to the top. Matt argues that media companies rely on polarizing pundits because conflict drives engagement, making society more divided than ever. News fatigue is real—two-thirds of Americans are burned out by news. Constant negativity has made many people disengage from current events. Looking back on 1,000+ episodes, Erica reflects on how her show has changed over time and what she’s learned since episode one. Why practicing in private matters – Before launching publicly, Erica sought feedback from close friends and family. Testing and refining early on gave her the confidence to succeed. Erica shares the reality of running a podcast as a business. The theory of starting a show is exciting, but actually growing and sustaining a podcast brand is a different challenge altogether. Why a little naivety can be helpful in business. If you knew everything before starting, you might be too afraid to take the leap. Erica believes that sometimes, blind optimism can be a good thing. The U.S. leads in entrepreneurship—until age 31, when rates drop sharply. According to Matt, a key reason could be that that’s when most people have kids, making risk-taking harder. The power of delegation—learning to let go. Every hire takes over a job you once did. Letting go of control can be tough, but it’s crucial for growth. Understand that hiring is not a cost—it’s an investment. Erica’s parenting advice—research, but trust your gut: No amount of reading can fully prepare you. Whether it’s raising a child or running a business, sometimes you just have to trust yourself. Mentioned in This Episode: /episode/index/show/d33ab0e3-b919-4100-b864-a2e6406d8cce/id/35494710

Anycast season 2 episode 8 trailer with Erica Mandy 03/06/2025

ICYMI - Why You're Wrong About AI: Overcoming Limitations of Artificial Intelligence with Christopher Penn 02/27/2025

Why You're Wrong About AI: Overcoming Limitations of Artificial Intelligence with Christopher Penn 02/20/2025

Why You're Wrong About AI: Overcoming Limitations of Artificial Intelligence with Christopher Penn Matt Levine sits down with Christopher Penn, the Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist at TrustInsights.ai. They discuss why we’re underusing AI, the biases holding us back, and how to embrace AI’s strengths for practical applications. Christopher shares insights on AI's role in content creation, the future of AGI, and how creatives can stay ahead in an AI-driven world. Chris starts by explaining why AI is here to stay. Even if the major players like OpenAI disappear, AI's capabilities will remain a core part of our future. Matt and Chris discuss how people can learn to overcome AI skepticism. Matt explains that the fear of AI making mistakes is what’s holding us back. Learn how to adopt a mindset that embraces its strengths over its imperfections. Chris highlights the real reason we’re underusing generative AI today. What makes AI adoption challenging? Matt explains how humans expect perfection from AI despite it just being “better” than us in many areas. He explains how embracing "better" over "perfect" can unlock AI’s potential. Matt and Chris agree that public skepticism grows because of how AI's mistakes are magnified by the media. You never hire full-time employees for something unimportant. You always hire for the critically important things. According to Chris, the one thing that will elevate AI in society is humans learning to use it beyond simple tasks like writing blogs. Chris shares practical ways generative AI can be leveraged in healthcare, education, and societal planning. Chris’s view on why we’re far from AGI. Despite fears about sentient AI, Chris explains that quantum computing is not yet ready for the challenge. Regression AI is an excellent tool for transforming complex data into actionable insights. However, Chris warns about its limits in unpredictable scenarios like elections. Understand that every profession that has humans working in it has human biases. Learn how AI-generated data can improve training models. Chris explains that initial machine-generated data is cleaner and less biased than much of the internet. What biases mean for AI training data. Chris and Matt discuss how AI consuming its own generated content can create feedback loops. Chris reveals why the current tools for detecting AI-generated content are unreliable. The skills you need to protect your career in the AI age. Matt and Chris cover what creatives and podcasters can do to stay relevant and get the most out of generative AI. While AI content isn’t Pulitzer-worthy, Matt notes it’s good enough for low-quality tasks. Humans are bad at rapid change, but are very good at gradual change. Chris’s advice for practical AI implementation: Every profession has biases, and AI reflects them. Learn how to use AI thoughtfully while addressing inherent human prejudices. Matt explains that expecting AI to be perfect misses the point—it’s meant to amplify, not replace, human ability. Adopting this view lets you leverage AI more effectively. The surprising power of classification AI. For Chris, this form of AI organizes massive datasets, making it invaluable for industries overwhelmed by information. Mentioned in This Episode: /episode/index/show/d33ab0e3-b919-4100-b864-a2e6406d8cce/id/35230875

Anycast season 2 episode 7 trailer with Christopher Penn 02/13/2025

ICYMI - The Era of AI-Powered Content Creation: Insights from 20-Year Podcasting Veteran with Rob Greenlee 02/06/2025

The Era of AI-Powered Content Creation: Insights from 20-Year Podcasting Veteran with Rob Greenlee 01/30/2025

The Era of AI-Powered Content Creation: Insights from 20-Year Podcasting Veteran with Rob Greenlee Matt Levine talks with podcasting legend Rob Greenlee to discuss content creation in the age of AI. They discuss the growing influence of video in podcasting, short-form versus long-form content, and how to stand out in an increasingly competitive podcasting landscape. Tune in to hear practical advice on creating content, building authentic connections, and embracing the AI-driven fourth industrial revolution! Rob Greenlee is a podcasting pioneer who was inducted into the Podcast Hall of Fame in 2017. Learn how his journey from radio in 1999 shaped the modern podcasting industry. Rob shares how the core of podcasting hasn't changed since 2004, but there are subtle evolutions reshaping the future. Rob reflects on the early resistance to ads in podcasts. He reveals why he was called a "sellout" for monetizing his show and how attitudes have shifted. How short-form and long-form content came to coexist in the podcast ecosystem. Rob discusses why both formats continue to thrive in the attention economy. Rob breaks down how the difference between commercial radio's advertiser-first mindset and podcasting's audience-first approach. Video is the future of podcasting. Learn how leveraging platforms like YouTube can amplify your reach and attract your ideal audience. Matt and Rob try to define what a podcast really is. They discuss how podcasts evolved from audio-only to include video, music, books, and more. Matt and Rob discuss the next revolution in media consumption. Find out how AI and platforms like YouTube will reshape content discovery. Matt and Rob explore how new podcasters can stand out in a content environment where millions of shows already exist. Rob’s content prediction: YouTube will become the largest search engine in the world. And the reason for that is that people will increasingly be able to access media. Rob believes human intelligence is far more superior than anything AI will ever have. Yes, AI has a big library of information, but it doesn't have the intelligence that humans have. According to Matt, many people will lose jobs to AI. The good news is that technology has always created more jobs. They're not identical jobs, but they're usually higher-paying jobs. Rob’s advice for people using AI for content creation: don’t use AI for everything; only use it for what it's good at. Rob talks about the future of radio and what the data says about radio listeners: radio is a declining medium. It’s increasingly becoming irrelevant. No market ever gets to 100%. For Rob, there will always be some percentage of the population that won’t listen to a podcast because they’re maybe too old or too young. Matt shares his thoughts on how creators can use AI to enhance, not replace, their content creation process. Rob explains how AI could solve complex global challenges--but its potential depends on human guidance and ethical implementation. Learn how to adapt to the AI-driven fourth industrial revolution. Matt and Rob discuss why embracing this transformation is key to staying relevant. Matt and Rob agree that AI isn't just a tool but a transformational technology. Rob compares its impact to the invention of electricity. Rob and Matt reveal simple strategies to extend your content's reach and ways to repurpose your content for maximum impact. Rob talks about the death of radio. Learn why radio is losing relevance and how podcasting is filling the gap for modern listeners--discover what this shift means for your content strategy. Rob explains why relationship-building is essential for podcasting success in the AI era. He also covers the role of human connection in great marketing. Learn why podcasts are the perfect addition to your video-first marketing strategy. Rob shares tips for integrating audio and video seamlessly. Rob predicts the future of podcasting in the next five years. What to expect from the 2024 PodFest Expo: Hear key insights from one of the largest podcasting conferences. Find out what trends and tips are shaping the future of the industry. Mentioned in This Episode: /episode/index/show/d33ab0e3-b919-4100-b864-a2e6406d8cce/id/34900865

Anycast season 2 episode 6 trailer with Rob Greenlee 01/23/2025

ICYMI - Outpace Your Competition with AI Marketing: Secrets from Mike Allton 01/16/2025

Outpace Your Competition with AI Marketing: Secrets from Mike Allton 01/09/2025

Outpace Your Competition with AI Marketing: Secrets from Mike Allton Matt Levine sits down with Mike Allton to discuss the seismic shifts AI is creating across industries. They also discuss AI’s role in marketing, productivity, and content creation, including how Mike uses AI to manage four active podcasts without breaking a sweat. If you’re curious about AI’s impact on your life, career, or marketing strategy—and how to stay ahead—this episode delivers actionable insights you can’t afford to miss. Mike Alton is a Strategic Marketing Leader in AI and Data-Driven Solutions. His mission is to provide strategic marketing leadership to businesses, unlocking their full potential in the digital landscape. Mike starts by talking about the ethics and the legality issues surrounding AI. While often valid, Matt feels people use this as an excuse to push back on AI. Mike lists the type of businesses he believes will be phased out by AI. Instead of being fearful of or fighting AI because it will phase out jobs, Matt feels people should focus on pivoting, adapting, or incorporating AI into their skillset. According to Mike, AI isn’t just a tool—it’s a transformational technology. Like electricity, AI is designed to improve our lives. Mike highlights the difference between AI and automation tools—Automation handles repetitive tasks, but AI is far more advanced. It learns, adapts, and evolves. Matt and Mike agree that we’re in the fourth industrial revolution, and unlike previous revolutions, the pace of AI development is unprecedented. Your ability to keep up and harness AI’s potential will determine your success over the next decade. Mike shares his thoughts on the role of AI in solving complex medical challenges. Matt explains how human innovation will thrive even as more innovators move towards Artificial General Intelligence, AGI. AI-generated content will soon be everywhere—but so will tools to detect it. As AI content floods the internet, algorithms will evolve to ensure that quality, human-driven innovation continues to thrive. Mike talks about AI brain drain targeting specific industries. Don’t fear brain drain—all l industries will benefit as AI handles tedious tasks, allowing human professionals to focus on high-impact innovations. Matt and Mike discuss how podcasting fits perfectly into a modern video-first marketing strategy. Mike explains why every business, from startups to enterprises, should prioritize video marketing. According to Mike, you don’t need millions of views to run a successful video marketing campaign. A podcast or video that reaches a small, highly targeted group can turn viewers into paying customers. Nobody should go into podcasting or even content creation in general with the hope of becoming a Joe Rogan. Mark shares insights on how the demand for quick satisfaction and constant connectedness makes it increasingly difficult for marketers to hold a consumer’s attention. The good news is that most people have patience for great content. If your podcast is relevant, helpful, and engaging, people will binge-listen for hours—just like Netflix. Mike explains why great marketing needs human connection to be effective. Great marketing starts and ends with relationship building, and that's impossible to do when humans are not involved. Mike shares the workload involved in hosting five active podcasts--and how AI makes it all possible. Mike explains the fastest and easiest way to repurpose content to maximize reach and impact. Mike and Matt agree that effective marketing today is about sharing who you are, why you do what you do, and how you’re different. Stop leading with features—tell your story. Mike believes video is non-negotiable for modern marketing success. If you’re not prioritizing video creation, you’re missing out on the most powerful way to connect with your audience. Matt and Mike agree that if today's large language models rely solely on their own outputs to train future versions, the quality of the information will inevitably decline over time, creating a cycle of degradation. Mike talks about the future of marketing. By 2029, brand partnerships and genuine relationships will drive the most successful campaigns. Start building strong, authentic connections now to stay ahead. Mentioned in This Episode: by Tamsen Webster /episode/index/show/d33ab0e3-b919-4100-b864-a2e6406d8cce/id/34675915

Anycast season 2 episode 5 trailer with Mike Allton 01/02/2025

The Anycast with Matt Levine

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