I’m gonna be honest. This issue was meant to be released already today. However, I have been a bit overwhelmed and felt stumped at what image to choose to go with this week’s newsletter.
Over the break, I got myself a “de-clutter” present for clearing out some old camera gear that wasn’t getting properly utilized, and I bought myself a new-to-me Nikon Df. I could wax poetic about why I purchased this camera over the newer Zf, but let’s just say it was an emotional purchase. In looking through these photos, I saw this pic I took of the bull from Barcelona that sits in my office.
I don’t know exactly why, but I’ve started collecting bull statues when I travel. Personally, I think deep down I see travel as an experience that rejuvenates me and brings me back stronger and ready to run like a bull, and I feel that same feeling as we enter into 2026. So in that way, I think it makes sense to start off this year with the bull.
Despite the current social and political atmosphere we’re facing, I have high hopes for HumblePod this year. I’m bullish on the business, and I’m excited for what this year has in store. It’s easy to get caught up in negative thinking and a survivalist’s mindset, but after seven years in business, we’re still around, and I’m excited to share with you what we’re doing next.
So let’s dive in!
📣 Making Podcasting Impactful – A slight rebrand announcement 📣
After some deep reflection at the end of 2025, I’ve realized it is time for a slight branding change. We’re changing our tagline from “We Make Podcasting Easy” to “We Make Podcasting Impactful.”
The change is simple, but it’s a powerful one for many reasons, which I discuss in the latest blog post. There’s a lot to dig into, so I recommend you check it out!
We’re Hiring A Full-Time Podcast Editor
Are you a podcast editor who would love to come work with us? Do you live in Knoxville, TN? If so, we’re still accepting applications for this position! You can apply by clicking the link below.
🎧 From Side Hustle to Strategy with Becky Owen 🎧
What does it really take to turn creator passion into a sustainable business? In this episode of We Built This Brand, Becky Owen breaks down the reality behind the creator economy, from pricing your worth and avoiding burnout to why AI isn’t a strategy (and never should be).
We explore how creators can build long-term influence without launching a brand, the danger of “AI-for-AI’s-sake,” and why nostalgia, instinct, and human creativity still matter more than ever. A must-listen for creators, marketers, and brand builders navigating what’s next.
📰 Podcast Stuff You Should Know
The Golden Globes Now Has A Podcast Category
What a way to start the year! Apparently, the Golden Globes now have a Best Podcast category, and its winner was Good Hang with Amy Poehler. The show is only about 10 months old, and its win comes as a bit of a surprise given its newness to the scene and the newness of this category. That said, the playing field for this category was rather wide as well and was decided upon based on a list of 25 eligible podcasts from Golden Globes data partner, Luminate. If they continue this category, I definitely think they should break it down into smaller sections. The fact that NPR was in the same category as Good Hang is just evidence that the segmentation was too broad. (Read More)
Podtrac is now tracking Top Multi-Channel Podcasts
I’m glad that Podtrac is starting to look at podcasts more holistically. I’ve said for a while that new shows rely heavily on social media for their audience and often build brand equity over time by being popular in short-form content first. You can see that being the case on this chart. First instance, just look at how Good Hang is so heavily weighted toward social media clips versus The Joe Rogan Experience or The Rest is History, which are primarily the actual podcast on video or audio. It’ll be interesting to see how this chart moves over time, and I’m happy they put it together. (Read More)
