6 chapters across the catalog
The hosts read a list of donors who contributed to the Podcast Index via PayPal and other platforms. Notable contributions include $100 from Blueberry, $50 from Mitchell Downey, and various amounts from Pod Page and individual supporters like Ralph Astep and Jay Fisker.
Mike Dell on Blueberry Ad Networks and Industry Diversity
Mike Dell, VP of Operations at Blueberry, joins the boardroom to discuss ad monetization and the recent closure of the BIPOC Podcast Creators group. He expresses support for the idea of app developers receiving a cut of ad spend if they provide valuable data. The conversation also touches on the decline of DEI-funded initiatives in the podcasting space as corporate "virtue signaling" budgets dry up.
Mike Dell explains that Blueberry is developing support for Apple HLS (HTTP Live Streaming) to meet customer demand for video podcasting. He notes that video metrics will likely remain similar to audio, relying on server log files for measurement. The hosts argue that the push for video is primarily driven by a desire to tap into YouTube's advertising revenue rather than improving the medium itself.
Mike Dell announces a new partnership between Blueberry and Podpage, allowing Blueberry hosting customers to easily create landing pages without using WordPress. This collaboration acknowledges that while PowerPress is powerful, many new podcasters prefer the simplified design workflow offered by Podpage. The deal includes an exclusive template for Blueberry users and a referral relationship between the two companies.
Blueberry Operations and Continuity Post-Todd Cochrane
Mike Dell discusses the operational changes at Blueberry following the passing of founder Todd Cochrane, focusing on business continuity and cross-training staff. The company has implemented shared password management and ensured multiple people can handle critical tasks like payroll. Dell notes that the team is now focusing on their core strengths in hosting rather than trying to compete in every niche like web design.
Podcast Index Public Data Sets and Hosting Provider Stats
The Podcast Index has consolidated its various public data sets into a single accessible page, replacing a redundant stats menu. These resources include SQLite files for live and dead feeds, hosting provider statistics with accurate attribution for companies like Blueberry, and hourly feed reports used by industry analysts.
