PodFather
The Podfather Podcast is your go-to resource for starting, growing, and sustaining a podcast that actually gets results.
Hosted by Roy Coughlan — Business Podcast Coach and the man behind 9 podcasts, five of which have reached the global top 0.5% and one the top 1% — this show is built on real experience, not theory. Roy's shows chart daily in 20+ countries and have hit No.1 in over 20 countries worldwide.
Each episode is packed with practical, usable tips from Roy and fellow podcasters sharing their secret sauce — the strategies, systems, and lessons that keep shows growing and hosts in the game.
Whether you are just starting out or ready to move to the next level, this is the show for you.
🎙️ Start or grow your podcast: https://roycoughlan.com/ 👥 Join the Podfather community: skool.com/podfather/about
Podcast Description
The Podfather Podcast is your go-to resource for starting, growing, and sustaining a podcast that actually gets results.
Hosted by Roy Coughlan — Business Podcast Coach and the man behind 9 podcasts, five of which have reached the global top 0.5% and one the top 1% — this show is built on real experience, not theory. Roy's shows chart daily in 20+ countries and have hit No.1 in over 20 countries worldwide.
Each episode is packed with practical, usable tips from Roy and fellow podcasters sharing their secret sauce — the strategies, systems, and lessons that keep shows growing and hosts in the game.
Whether you are just starting out or ready to move to the next level, this is the show for you.
🎙️ Start or grow your podcast: https://roycoughlan.com/ 👥 Join the Podfather community: skool.com/podfather/about
Episodes

Jun 25, 2026
Jun 25, 2026
1hr 8 min
Being a great podcast guest is a unique skill that can dramatically boost your career—or erode your professional image if done poorly. In the final part of our series, David Goldberg, founder of Edge Studio, shares a masterclass on how to be a standout guest. We explore the importance of prosody, vocal etiquette, and virtual presence, ensuring you show up prepared, confident, and memorable. David and Roy discuss practical tips for handling technical glitches with grace, the power of a 10-second elevator pitch, and why you should never "wing it" when it comes to your audio quality. Whether you're looking to share your passion or boost your resume, these final lessons will ensure you're the guest every host wants to invite back.
⏱️ Accurate YouTube Chapters & Timestamps
0:00 Welcome & Introduction to David Goldberg
1:11 Why Be a Guest? Fun, passion, and career boosting
1:41 The Risk of Poor Guesting: How it can erode your professional image
2:23 Preparation: Why looking at notes is better than forgetting points
3:41 Banter and Connection: The importance of host-guest chemistry
4:33 Prosody for Guests: Staying in your natural pitch and tailoring your tone
6:56 International Audiences: Cleaning up enunciation and avoiding local slang
7:00 Volume and Headphones: Why you should never scream at your audience
7:50 Pacing and Spacing: Lessening your words and leaving room for the listener
26:00 Handling Glitches: Staying calm and reacting without panic
28:00 Vocal Etiquette: Giving the host space and avoiding interruptions
29:00 The 10-Second Elevator Pitch: Being prepared to explain who you are
31:00 Listening to Previous Episodes: Researching the host's style and theme
32:00 Slowing Down Keywords: Ensuring your name and business are heard
33:00 Admitting You Don't Know: Admitting it with confidence vs. waffling
35:00 Virtual Presence: Testing quality a week before and an hour before
37:00 The 25% Credibility Hit: Why audio quality is non-negotiable
39:00 Acoustic Treatment: The 80% rule and practical "pillow fort" tips
41:00 Microphone Choice: Investing in a decent USB mic for professional sound
64:00 Avoiding Filler Words: Cutting out "um," "ah," "you know," and "like"
65:00 Responding with "So": Why you should avoid starting answers with "so"
66:00 Positive Reaffirmation: Avoiding annoying "yeah, yeah, yeah" interruptions
67:36 Where to Find David: Edge Studio and final contact details
68:25 Outro: RoyCoughlan.com and the PodFather Network
68:42 End of Episode
🔗 Where to Find David Goldberg
•Email: david@edgestudio.com
•Website: EdgeStudio.com
•Services: Voiceover recording, directing, and communication coaching.
🔗 About Your Host (Roy Coughlan)
•Listen to this episode on Podbean: https://awakeningpodcasts.podbean.com/
•Explore more podcasts: Find all podcasts at the PodFather Network
•Website: RoyCoughlan.com
•Need help running your business? If you are looking for a Virtual Assistant and get reliable support for your daily operations.
•Virtual Assistants: VA.world
•Private Networking Group: Learn about a Private Networking Group in 50 US States & 39 Countries with 640+ Members https://connectedleaders.academy/
•Brain Upgrade: BrainUpgrade.org
#DavidGoldberg #PodFather #PodcastGuest #GuestingTips #ProfessionalPresence #VocalEtiquette #PublicSpeaking #CareerBoost #AudioQuality #ElevatorPitch #EdgeStudio #RoyCoughlan #PodcastSuccess #CommunicationSkills #StandoutGuest

Jun 23, 2026
Jun 23, 2026
1hr 12 min
You put immense effort into your podcast—marketing, sponsors, and refining your own voice—but what happens when a high-profile guest sounds terrible? In Part 4 of our series, David Goldberg, founder of Edge Studio, shares his essential 8-step guide to ensuring your guests elevate, rather than weaken, your show. We explore the critical impact of first impressions and why guest preparation is non-negotiable for maintaining professionalism and authority. David provides practical, low-cost solutions for acoustic treatment—from "pillow forts" to the "80% rule"—and breaks down the pros and cons of different microphone types. Learn how to guide your guests to sound as good as you do and keep your audience engaged from the very first word.
⏱️ Accurate YouTube Chapters & Timestamps
0:00 Welcome & Introduction to David Goldberg
1:14 The Risk of Poor Guest Quality: Don't let a guest ruin your show
2:12 First Impressions: Why the first word your guest speaks is critical
3:02 The Power Dynamic: Why talk show hosts sit higher than their guests
4:02 Preparation Timeline: The two-week and one-hour rules
4:30 The 8-Step Checklist: Sound Quality vs. Speech Patterns
5:53 Acoustics: Understanding reverb and the "ping-pong" flutter echo
7:46 Flutter Echoes and Reverberation: Why hard surfaces are the enemy
10:08 Acoustic Treatment: Thick carpeting, foam squares, and the 80% rule
11:28 The Blanket Trick: Using sleeping bags and moving blankets for the ceiling
13:00 Creating a "Pillow Fort": Practical tips for recording while traveling
15:00 The Table Surface: Using thick towels to stop sound reflections
16:00 Microphone Types: Why expensive isn't always better
17:00 Shotgun Microphones: Directional focus and the risk of guest movement
71:14 Don't Wing It: The importance of listening on high-quality earphones
71:58 Where to Find David: Edge Studio and email contact
72:31 Outro: RoyCoughlan.com and the PodFather Network
72:54 End of Episode
🔗 Where to Find David Goldberg
•Email: david@edgestudio.com
•Website: EdgeStudio.com
•Services: Voiceover recording, directing, and communication coaching.
🔗 About Your Host (Roy Coughlan)
•Listen to this episode on Podbean: https://awakeningpodcasts.podbean.com/
•Explore more podcasts: Find all podcasts at the PodFather Network
•Website: RoyCoughlan.com
•Need help running your business? If you are looking for a Virtual Assistant and get reliable support for your daily operations.
•Virtual Assistants: VA.world
•Private Networking Group: Learn about a Private Networking Group in 50 US States & 39 Countries with 640+ Members https://connectedleaders.academy/
•Brain Upgrade: BrainUpgrade.org
#DavidGoldberg #PodFather #GuestPreparation #SoundQuality #Acoustics #MicrophoneTips #Podcasting101 #ProfessionalSound #VocalPatterns #EdgeStudio #RoyCoughlan #PodcastProduction #GuestSuccess #AudioEngineering #Engagement

Jun 21, 2026
Jun 21, 2026
1hr 16 min
Why do some podcasters instantly connect with their audience while others struggle to keep listeners engaged? The answer lies in one word: Prosody. In Part 3 of our series with David Goldberg, founder of Edge Studio, we dive deep into the "how" of human communication. David explains that it’s not just what you say, but how you say it—your pitch, tempo, tone, and rhythm—that makes all the difference. We explore why this essential skill is rarely taught in schools and how you can harness your natural pitch to mask nervousness and project confidence. Whether you're a seasoned host or just starting out, David’s insights on effective vocal patterns will dramatically elevate your podcast presence.
⏱️ Accurate YouTube Chapters & Timestamps
0:00 Welcome & Introduction to David Goldberg
0:57 Prosody: The one word that defines how you say your words
1:36 What is Prosody? Inflection, intonation, pitch, and rhythm
2:12 The Education Gap: Why prosody isn't taught in grade school
3:24 The Fear of Public Speaking: How a lack of training leads to humiliation
5:54 Communication Skills: The key to success in corporations and colleges
6:52 The Search for Synonyms: Why "speaking patterns" doesn't cover it all
7:51 Prosody for Podcasters: Breaking down the seven categories
9:52 Pitch: The musical note of your voice and its role in engagement
11:28 Masking Nerves: How lowering your pitch increases credibility
13:00 Finding Your Natural Pitch: The humming and meditation techniques
15:00 Pitch Range Exercises: Moving from monotone to engaging
18:00 Tempo: The speed of your words and the importance of clarity
21:00 Handling Single-Syllable Words: Ensuring your audience can decipher the message
23:00 Tone and Volume: Tailoring your voice to the topic and audience
25:30 Pacing and Spacing: The rhythm of your delivery
26:50 Variety: Keeping the listener engaged through vocal shifts
74:11 Final Advice: Loosening up and having fun with your performance
74:52 Where to Find David: Edge Studio and coaching services
76:31 Outro: RoyCoughlan.com and the PodFather Network
76:53 End of Episode
🔗 Where to Find David Goldberg
•Email: david@edgestudio.com
•Website: EdgeStudio.com
•Services: Voiceover recording, directing, and communication coaching.
🔗 About Your Host (Roy Coughlan)
•Listen to this episode on Podbean: https://awakeningpodcasts.podbean.com/
•Explore more podcasts: Find all podcasts at the PodFather Network
•Website: RoyCoughlan.com
•Need help running your business? If you are looking for a Virtual Assistant and get reliable support for your daily operations.
•Virtual Assistants: VA.world
•Private Networking Group: Learn about a Private Networking Group in 50 US States & 39 Countries with 640+ Members https://connectedleaders.academy/
•Brain Upgrade: BrainUpgrade.org
#DavidGoldberg #PodFather #Prosody #VocalPatterns #PublicSpeaking #CommunicationSkills #Voiceover #PodcastingTips #AuthenticVoice #PitchAndTempo #EdgeStudio #RoyCoughlan #SpeakerCoaching #VocalEngagement #PodcastGrowth

Jun 14, 2026
Jun 14, 2026
1hr 9 min
Did you know that your audience decides whether to trust you, like you, or do business with you in just a quarter of a second? In Part 2 of our exclusive 5-part series with David Goldberg, CEO of Edge Studio, we dive deep into the "Strategic Words" that define your professional presence. David reveals the seven critical categories of wording that can either elevate your authority or quietly sabotage your message. From the psychological trap of "hedge words" to the simple shift from "but" to "and," this episode is a masterclass in intentional communication. Whether you are a podcaster, a business leader, or a public speaker, David’s insights will help you ensure that your first impression isn't just good—it's unforgettable.
⏱️ Timestamps
0:00 Welcome & Introduction to David Goldberg
1:26 The Power of the First Impression: Why a quarter of a second matters
3:15 The Science of Swift Decisions: From grocery aisles to podcasting
4:50 Introducing the 7 Categories of Strategic Wording
7:56 Category 1: Being Interactive — The right and wrong way to ask questions
9:22 The "Show-Off" Trap: Why you shouldn't ask questions your audience can't answer
12:41 Visual Presence: Camera angles, hand positions, and the "fingertip" mistake
14:35 Category 2: Avoiding Hedge Words — "Probably," "Maybe," and "I think"
16:13 Strengthening Your Message: Replacing "I think" with "I believe" or "I know"
25:57 Category 3: Avoiding the Word "But" — How it negates everything you said before
27:11 The "And" Solution: Maintaining positive momentum in conversation
29:03 Category 4: Positive First Word Responses — Using "Exactly," "Absolutely," and "Yes"
30:14 Category 5: Avoiding Interrupting Yourself — Staying on track and finishing your thoughts
36:31 Category 6: Avoiding Filler Words — The "Um," "Ah," and "Like" habit
43:26 Category 7: Organizing Your Content — The importance of a clear roadmap
55:56 The "Fine" Example: How prosody (tone) changes the meaning of words
68:48 How to Connect with David: EdgeStudio.com and the "Roy's Shows Rock" subject line
69:22 Looking Ahead: Preview of Session 3
69:51 Outro: RoyCoughlan.com and the PodFather Network
🔗 Where to Find David Goldberg
•Website: EdgeStudio.com
•Email: David@EdgeStudio.com (Mention "Roy's shows rock" in the subject line for a responsive reply!)
•Location: Times Square, NYC
🔗 About Your Host (Roy Coughlan)
•Listen to this episode on Podbean: https://podfather.me/e/david-goldberg-strategic-words-part-2/
•Explore more podcasts: Find all podcasts at the PodFather Network
•Website: RoyCoughlan.com
•Need help running your business? If you are looking for a Virtual Assistant and get reliable support for your daily operations.
•Virtual Assistants: VA.world
•Communities: BrainGym.fitness
•Private Networking Group: Learn about a Private Networking Group in 50 US States & 39 Countries with 640+ Members https://connectedleaders.academy/
#Podcasting #DavidGoldberg #EdgeStudio #StrategicWords #FirstImpressions #CommunicationSkills #PublicSpeaking #AudioQuality #ProfessionalDevelopment #LeadershipCommunication #RoyCoughlan #PodFather #ContentCreation #VoiceoverTraining #BusinessCommunication

Jun 11, 2026
Jun 11, 2026
1hr 22 min
In this exclusive 5-part mini-series on the Podfather Podcast, we sit down with David Goldberg, CEO of Edge Studio in New York City. David has worked with over 10,000 speakers, including CEOs, politicians, and celebrities like Snoop Dogg and Michael J. Fox. This series is a deep dive into the technical and psychological elements that make a podcast sound professional, build trust, and keep listeners engaged.
📝 Part 1: The Foundation of Sound Quality
Intro: Why does sound quality matter more than content in the first three seconds? David Goldberg shares his journey from a musician and drug-free studio owner to a voiceover industry leader. We explore the "Low Budget Ad" analogy and why your first impression is decided in a fraction of a second.
Timestamps:
0:00 Welcome & Introduction to David Goldberg
2:44 David's Musical Roots: From piano prodigy to off-Broadway
4:32 The 4-Track Cassette: How David started recording and overdubbing
7:12 The Transition to Voiceover: Why a drug-free studio changed everything
9:38 The Importance of Sound Quality: Why listeners tune out in 3 seconds
10:54 The Low Budget Ad Analogy: How production value impacts credibility
12:24 The Fraction of a Second: How first impressions build trust
15:21 Choosing the Right Microphone: The car analogy for audio gear
18:06 David's Home Setup: Recording in a cement basement with foam
20:00 The AT2020: Why a $100 mic can sound like $3,000 in the right room
📝 Part 2: Acoustics and Environment
Intro: You can have a $5,000 microphone, but if your room sounds like a bathroom, you've wasted your money. David explains the critical role of acoustics, how to "de-echo" a room on a budget, and why your guest's environment is just as important as yours.
Timestamps:
22:15 The Room vs. The Mic: Why acoustics are 80% of the battle
24:30 Dealing with Echo: Using blankets, foam, and "cushy chairs"
26:45 The Guest's Setup: How to train your guests to sound professional
29:36 Adobe Enhance & AI: Can technology really fix a "crappy laptop" recording?
32:00 Lapel Microphones: The pros and cons of clip-on mics for guests
34:28 The "Mouth Click" Problem: Why voice recording is less forgiving than music
📝 Part 3: Visual Presence and Lighting
Intro: If you're on video, you are being judged by more than just your voice. David breaks down the "Triangle of Lighting," the importance of camera angles (no more looking up noses!), and why a cluttered background erodes your professional image.
Timestamps:
35:13 Video Quality: Why looking good is as important as sounding good
36:12 Camera Angles: The "Eyebrow Height" rule for lenses
37:08 Background Clutter: How your environment impacts your perceived organization
38:42 Managing Light: Dealing with windows, glares, and black felt hacks
40:26 The Ring Light Setup: Creating the perfect triangle of light
41:48 The Glasses Glare: Is there a real solution for reflections?
📝 Part 4: The Art of Speaking for Podcasts
Intro: Speaking on a podcast is different from speaking on a stage. David discusses the "Intimacy of the Ear," managing filler words, and how to use pacing and spacing to keep your audience hanging on every word.
Timestamps:
44:34 The Intimacy of the Ear: Why you're talking directly into someone's head
46:12 Filler Words: How to minimize "um" and "uh" without sounding robotic
48:22 Pacing and Spacing: Using silence as a tool for engagement
50:45 Intonation: Avoiding the "monotone trap" in long-form interviews
52:30 Body Language on Camera: Conveying confidence through visual presence
📝 Part 5: Setting Up Your Guests for Success
Intro: Your podcast is only as strong as your weakest guest. In the series finale, David shares his secrets for "training" guests, ensuring they don't ruin your audio, and how to make sure they enhance your show rather than weaken it.
Timestamps:
55:09 The "Weak Guest" Risk: How a bad guest can sink your episode
57:22 Pre-Interview Coaching: Setting expectations for sound and behavior
59:15 The "Gift" Strategy: Shipping inexpensive mics to high-value guests
61:42 Final Advice: Why there's no excuse for not doing it right
65:43 Where to Find David: Edge Studio and the "Daily Stand"
66:32 Outro: RoyCoughlan.com and the PodFather Network
🔗 Where to Find David Goldberg
•Website: EdgeStudio.com
•Email: David@EdgeStudio.com (Reference this podcast for a responsive reply!)
•Location: Times Square, NYC
🔗 About Your Host (Roy Coughlan)
•Listen to this episode on Podbean: https://podfather.me/e/david-goldberg-series/
•Explore more podcasts: Find all podcasts at the PodFather Network
•Website: RoyCoughlan.com
•Need help running your business? If you are looking for a Virtual Assistant and get reliable support for your daily operations.
•Virtual Assistants: VA.world
•Communities: BrainGym.fitness
•Learn about a Private Networking Group in 50 US States & 39 Countries with 640+ Members: https://connectedleaders.academy/
#Podcasting #DavidGoldberg #EdgeStudio #SoundQuality #Voiceover #PodcastTips #AudioEngineering #PublicSpeaking #FirstImpressions #DigitalMarketing #RoyCoughlan #PodFather #SpeakingSkills #ContentCreation #Entrepreneurship

Jun 4, 2026
Jun 4, 2026
1hr 7 min
What if the "tiger" chasing you—the one keeping you up at night with worst-case scenarios—doesn't actually exist? In this episode of the Podfather Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Brian E. Arnold (better known as Dr. B), a professor, author, and mindset coach who literally wrote the book on overcoming overthinking. We explore the "frontal cortex overload" that keeps us stuck and how to reclaim the present moment. Dr. B also pulls back the curtain on his professional podcasting setup, sharing how he built a high-end studio using DIY materials and clever tech like teleprompters. Whether you're looking to master your mental game or scale your business through the power of podcasting and relationship-building, Dr. B’s "seven-minute mindset" offers actionable wisdom you can use today.
Timestamps
Timestamp
Topic Description
0:00
Welcome & Introduction to Dr. Brian E. Arnold
1:15
"There Is No Tiger": Overcoming overthinking and cognitive overload
1:50
The Evolution of "Dr. B": Branding, initials, and standing out in a crowded market
4:37
The Power of Branding: Why your visual identity matters in business
5:17
The DIY Studio: Building a professional background with plywood and Amazon finds
6:10
Lighting and Natural Light: How to look your best on camera without a pro budget
8:15
Audio Gear Deep Dive: The Jabra mic vs. high-end studio microphones
9:50
The Teleprompter Secret: How to maintain eye contact while delivering a script
12:15
StreamYard and Workflow: Recording and practicing for a seamless show
23:50
Monetizing Your Podcast: Why YouTube views aren't the only way to make money
25:57
The Real Estate Example: Using a podcast to open doors that were previously closed
27:51
Podcasting as a Skill: Mastering the lost art of listening and questioning
29:03
Expanding Your Sphere: Why you need to talk to people outside your neighborhood
30:46
Dealing with Different Guest Types: The quiet guest vs. the riveting storyteller
33:05
The Marcy Ng Story: Learning when to stop asking questions and just listen
66:37
Upcoming Research: The "7 Voices Not to Listen To" and creative marketing
67:01
50 Ways to Monetize Your Podcast: A special resource from Dr. B
67:20
Outro: RoyCoughlan.com and the PodFather Network
🔗 Where to Find Dr. Brian E. Arnold
•Website: BrianEArnold.com
•Book: There Is No Tiger (Available on Amazon)
•Podcast: The Seven-Minute Mindset
🔗 About Your Host (Roy Coughlan)
•Listen to this episode on Podbean: https://podfather.podbean.com/e/dr-brian-e-arnold-there-is-no-tiger/
•Explore more podcasts: Find all podcasts at the PodFather Network
•Website: RoyCoughlan.com
•Need help running your business? If you are looking for a Virtual Assistant and get reliable support for your daily operations.
•Virtual Assistants: VA.world
•Communities: BrainGym.fitness
•Learn about a Private Networking Group in 50 US States & 39 Countries with 640+ Members: https://connectedleaders.academy/
#Podfather #DrB #Mindset #Overthinking #PersonalDevelopment #PodcastingTips #BusinessBranding #MentalHealth #AnxietyRelief #Networking #Monetization #DIYStudio #RoyCoughlan #SevenMinuteMindset #SuccessHabits

Jun 2, 2026
Jun 2, 2026
1hr 10 min
What if the most honest data in marketing is what people type into a search bar at 2 AM? In this episode of the Podfather Podcast, we sit down with Stephan Bajaio, a 20-year veteran of the search industry who has helped giants like FedEx, Comcast, and Siemens navigate the digital landscape. Stephan, a co-founder of a half-billion-dollar SEO company, shares his incredible journey—from surviving a WeWork acquisition to buying his company back before the implosion. We dive deep into the "alphabet soup" of modern marketing (SEO, AEO, GEO, AIO) and why the "O" for optimization is the only thing that truly matters. Stephan also reveals his secrets for LinkedIn networking, the power of genuine recommendations, and why trying to "game" the new AI search models is a fool’s errand.
Timestamps
Timestamp
Topic Description
0:00
Welcome & Introduction to Stephan Bajaio
1:16
The LinkedIn Name Pronunciation Hack: A tip for hard-to-say names
2:22
The Power of 80+ LinkedIn Reviews: Quantitative vs. Qualitative validation
4:10
How to Ask for Recommendations: The "Kind Words" script
5:34
Using Reviews as a Career Asset: The 40-page printout that landed a co-founder role
7:03
Reciprocal Reviews vs. Earned Credibility: Why your reputation is on the line
9:22
The "Other" Inbox: Dealing with the aggressive spam of podcast promoters
11:37
Burning Bridges: Why sales aggressiveness ruins potential partnerships
13:40
PodMatch and the Reality of "Mic and a Computer" Podcasts
15:04
Vibe Logic: Stephan’s new mission in digital marketing and technical SEO
27:51
The Alphabet Soup of Search: SEO, AEO, GEO, and AIO explained
30:46
The "Couch vs. Sofa" Data Trap: Why your ignorance is someone else's market share
31:58
Web Presence Intelligence (WPI): Placing your bets on the digital roulette table
33:40
The Unpredictability of LLMs: Why the same prompt gives different results
35:56
Personalization in AI: How your search history shapes your future answers
38:05
The 2000 Internet Boom Parallel: Overvaluations and the "Dial-Up" phase of AI
41:32
The Gold Rush Fallacy: Why the money is in the "picks and pans," not the gaming
43:08
Needs-Based Personas: Moving beyond "Paul the Pauper" to real consumer intent
69:16
How to Connect with Stephan: Cutting through the noise in his inbox
69:40
Outro: RoyCoughlan.com and the PodFather Network
🔗 Where to Find Stephan Bajaio
•Agency: VibeLogic.io
•LinkedIn: Stephan Bajaio (Mention the Podfather Podcast to cut through the noise!)
🔗 About Your Host (Roy Coughlan)
•Listen to this episode on Podbean: https://podfather.podbean.com/e/stephan-bajaio-the-search-bar-truth/
•Explore more podcasts: Find all podcasts at the PodFather Network
•Website: RoyCoughlan.com
•Need help running your business? If you are looking for a Virtual Assistant and get reliable support for your daily operations.
•Virtual Assistants: VA.world
•Communities: BrainGym.fitness
•Learn about a Private Networking Group in 50 US States & 39 Countries with 640+ Members: https://connectedleaders.academy/
#Podfather #StephanBajaio #SEO #AI #SearchMarketing #DigitalStrategy #LinkedInNetworking #WeWorkSurvivor #VibeLogic #MarketingData #SearchIntent #FutureOfSearch #BusinessGrowth #RoyCoughlan #PodcastingSuccess

May 31, 2026
May 31, 2026
1hr 1 min
When was the last time you actually followed up with a lead—not just added it to a to-do list, but sent the right message at the right time? In this episode of the Podfather Podcast, we sit down with Ely Delaney, the "People Whisperer" and author of the newly released book, The Follow-Up Code. With 17 years of experience building automated systems that nurture relationships while you sleep, Ely reveals why most email marketing fails and how to fix it. We discuss the "Bushido Code" of business, the power of being an "invite-only" podcaster, and the incredible story of a lead that turned into a client 10 years after the first meeting. If you want to stop treating your customers like ATMs and start building a "castle" of loyal fans, this episode is your blueprint.
Timestamps
Timestamp
Topic Description
0:00
Welcome & Introduction to Ely Delaney
1:12
Honoring the New Book: The Follow-Up Code hits the charts
2:36
Ely’s Podcasting Journey: From Internet TV in 2010 to 300+ guest appearances
3:30
Launching the Meekle People Show on his 50th birthday
4:10
Podcasting as a Networking Tool: Building relationships vs. just marketing
5:34
The Evolution of a Host: Lessons learned from Driving Your Marketing
7:03
The "Invite-Only" Strategy: Why Ely doesn't take random guests
9:22
The Truth About Email: Why it’s not dead, but your strategy might be
10:45
The Bushido Code: Applying Samurai virtues (Integrity, Respect, Kindness) to business
11:37
The Value Ratio: How to provide content without being "pitchy"
13:40
Selfless Advice: Why recommending things that don't make you money builds trust
15:04
Book Recommendation: The Go-Giver by Bob Berg and the power of social karma
27:51
The "Follow-Up Fix": Moving away from PDFs to 5-day educational email courses
30:46
The Ultimate Follow-Up System: Creating 12-15 months of evergreen automation
31:58
The 10-Year Lead: How a 2010 connection became a 2020 client
33:40
The Merge Field Trap: Why you should stop using "Hey [First Name]"
35:56
Writing to One Person: The psychology of intimate communication
38:05
"Get Them in the Castle": Why you must own your list in a world of rented platforms
60:24
Where to Find Ely: FollowUpFix.com and the Meekle People Show
60:50
Outro: RoyCoughlan.com and the PodFather Network
🔗 Where to Find Ely Delaney
•Website: FollowUpFix.com (Get the 5-day email course)
•Podcast: Meekle People Show
•Book: The Follow-Up Code (Available on Amazon)
🔗 About Your Host (Roy Coughlan)
•Listen to this episode on Podbean: https://podfather.podbean.com/e/ely-delaney-the-follow-up-code/
•Explore more podcasts: Find all podcasts at the PodFather Network
•Website: RoyCoughlan.com
•Need help running your business? If you are looking for a Virtual Assistant and get reliable support for your daily operations.
•Virtual Assistants: VA.world
•Communities: BrainGym.fitness
•Learn about a Private Networking Group in 50 US States & 39 Countries with 640+ Members: https://connectedleaders.academy/
#Podfather #ElyDelaney #FollowUpCode #EmailMarketing #Networking #RelationshipBuilding #BusinessAutomation #TheGoGiver #BushidoCode #SovereignBusiness #MarketingStrategy #LeadNurturing #PodcastingTips #RoyCoughlan #MeeklePeople

Apr 16, 2026
Apr 16, 2026
53 min
Are you still manually posting to every social media platform one by one? In this episode, we sit down with Joe Zeplin, serial entrepreneur, CEO of Joe Zeplin Marketing Agency, and one of YouTube's most practical voices on Social Media Management Tools. Joe breaks down exactly how small businesses, freelancers, and content creators can grow their online presence organically — without spending a cent. From choosing the right post scheduler, to getting paid properly online, to understanding what hashtags actually do for your algorithm in 2024, this is a masterclass in working smarter on social media. If you've ever wondered how to post once and reach five platforms, why your content isn't getting the views it deserves, or how to finally stop leaving money on the table with payment processors — this one is for you.
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What we Discussed:
0:02 - Welcome & Introduction — Roy introduces Joe Zeplin
0:49 - Joe's background — from Pennsylvania to the corporate world
1:44 - The "cruise ship vs. dinghy" analogy — building something on the side
2:59 - Joe clarifies the analogy and his journey to full-time content creation
4:25 - How AI wiped out Joe's project manager role and forced the leap early
5:09 - Going from one video a month to four videos a week
6:30 - Roy on the freedom of working for yourself — and the boats that sink
7:43 - Accepting payments online — Square, PayPal, Venmo, and Stripe compared
9:53 - Why talking about getting paid matters for small businesses
10:14 - Currency exchange fees — making the client pay the spread, not you
11:52 - Roy's experience with Wise, Revolut, and invoicing across currencies
13:06 - Post schedulers — Buffer, Hootsuite, Metrical, and Virally explained
14:07 - Free versions and budget-friendly tools for podcasters and creators
16:21 - How to customise timing across platforms from one scheduled post
17:14 - Tailoring your content title and tone for Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram
20:13 - Platform-by-platform strategy — what works where and why
21:58 - Standing out on Instagram by doing the opposite of everyone else
23:17 - Hashtags in 2024 — are they still relevant?
24:03 - How algorithms have changed and what that means for hashtags
26:36 - Are third-party post schedulers penalised by platforms?
27:30 - Posting and ghosting — why engaging after you post matters
29:23 - Commenting on others in your niche to grow your audience
30:45 - Roy on always engaging — hearts, comments, and even negative feedback
31:20 - AI-generated comments — will they help or hurt?
33:00 - Virally's inbox management tool — responding across all platforms in one place
34:00 - Roy's experience tracking spikes — why 50/50 content sometimes outperforms
35:11 - Clickbait thumbnails vs. matching content — what the analytics reveal
36:38 - Using sound bites and previews in podcasts and videos
37:16 - Building a team and scaling content production
38:54 - Sleeper videos — why old content can suddenly take off
40:29 - Facebook post analytics — realising 700 people saw a post with 2 hearts
42:00 - Why content creators quit too early — the reality of silent viewers
43:57 - Vanity metrics vs. genuine engagement — 200 loyal beats 1 million fake
44:43 - How brands and guests still look at follower count over quality metrics
46:00 - The future of creator metrics — loyal fan base over vanity numbers
48:34 - vidIQ, TubeBuddy, and free SEO workarounds using Google search
50:39 - Maximising YouTube's 5,000-character description limit for SEO
50:59 - Using AI (ChatGPT/Claude) to build keyword-rich descriptions
51:45 - Long-tail SEO keywords — targeting the right viewer, not just more viewers
51:51 - Roy wraps up and invites Joe back
52:02 - Where to find Joe Zeplin and what you'll learn on his YouTube channel
#JoeZeplin #SocialMediaManagement #SocialMediaManagementTools #PostScheduler #YouTubeGrowth #ContentCreator #SmallBusiness #Metrical #Hootsuite #Buffer #SEOTips #Hashtags #Podfather #RoyColin #OnlineMarketing #DigitalMarketing #SocialMediaTips #YouTubeSEO #ContentMarketing #GrowOnline
How to connect with Joe Zeplin: 🌐 https://www.joezeplin.com/ ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/@joezeplin
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Mar 22, 2026
Mar 22, 2026
43 min
Are you playing not to lose, or are you playing to win? In this powerful episode, we sit down with Alan Lazaros, the founder and CEO of Next Level University, a global top 100 self-improvement podcast reaching listeners in over 175 countries. Alan shares his incredible journey from a challenging childhood marked by loss and family turmoil to becoming a highly successful computer engineer and entrepreneur. We dive deep into the psychology of self-sabotage, the difference between the fear of success and the fear of failure, and the exact system Alan uses to help his clients reverse engineer their biggest dreams. Whether you're an aspiring podcaster looking for the secret to consistency or someone striving to reach your true potential in life, love, health, and wealth, this episode is packed with no-BS, actionable insights. Tune in and get ready to level up.
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#podcasting #Podcastmarketing #podcastingtips
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What we Discussed:
0:00
Welcome & Introduction
1:30
Alan's Tough Start in Life — losing his birth father at age two and family turmoil
4:34
The Two Trauma Responses — social fawning vs. relentless drive behind the scenes
13:48
The Power of Self-Belief — how vision and high standards build self-efficacy
15:25
Reverse Engineering Your Dreams — Alan's 10-year roadmap system
22:46
The Comfort Zone Between Failure and Success — why we self-sabotage
25:50
Fear of Success vs. Fear of Failure — the two fears holding everyone back
33:09
The Yin and Yang of Business Partnerships — how complementary skill sets win
34:28
The Podcasting Formula — sustainability, consistency, and continuous improvement
41:08
Alan's Ideal Client Quadrant — coachability + work ethic = his people
#Podcast #AlanLazaros #NextLevelUniversity #SelfImprovement #PersonalDevelopment #OvercomingAdversity #SuccessMindset #GoalSetting #PodcastTips #Entrepreneurship #Motivation #SelfBelief #FearOfSuccess #Consistency #GrowthMindset
What we Discussed:
Episode with Alan's Co Host Kevin Palmieri
https://www.podfather.me/podcast-coaching-secrets-from-a-top-expert-with-2000-episodes/
How to contact Alan Lazaros:
https://www.nextleveluniverse.com/
https://www.facebook.com/alan.lazaros
https://www.youtube.com/@NextLevelUniversity
https://www.instagram.com/alazaros88/
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Find me at https://roycoughlan.com/ & https://bio.link/podcaster
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