Best Dylan Schmidt Podcasts (2025)

1
Embracing The Next Evolution 4:27

Play Pause

2M ago4:27

4:27

After 253 episodes and thousands of pieces of content, Dylan announces a significant shift in his creative direction. In this candid farewell episode, he reflects on his content evolution and explains why he's pausing the Digital Creator podcast. You'll hear about: Dylan's journey from pure podcasting education to exploring AI, tech, and current ev…

1
Season 3 update from James and Per 2:03

2M ago2:03

2:03

This is an update to let you know that we have reached the end of Season 3. Have a great summer, and perhaps Per will see you at Camp Digital in Manchester, England, and perhaps James will see you at Web Summer Camp in Opatija, Croatia. References: Our Backstage mailing list get a heads up about the new season: Sign up here Contribute with your tim…

1
When Nothing Happens After You Publish 4:08

2M ago4:08

4:08

Ever published content only to be met with silence? In this encouraging episode, Dylan explores the crucial gap between creation and recognition that causes many creators to give up just as they're building momentum. You'll discover: Why the silence after hitting publish isn't a verdict (even though we treat it like one) How misinterpreting early f…

1
Why AI Isn't Your Biggest Threat 4:24

2M ago4:24

4:24

Worried about AI replacing creators? In this thought-provoking episode, Dylan challenges us to consider a more immediate concern: are we replacing ourselves in the pursuit of algorithmic success? You'll discover: Why chasing tools and tactics without self-reflection leads to slow but significant drift How 'perfectly optimized' content often feels c…

1
The Secret to Staying Consistent When Motivation Drops 5:22

2M ago5:22

5:22

Ever feel like you're just 'going through the motions' with your content? In this refreshingly honest episode, Dylan explores how to navigate those inevitable periods when your creative work feels like a grind. You'll discover: Why passion is an unreliable guide (and what to use instead) How a single, clear KPI can become your creative compass The …

1
What Role Does Your Account Play in Someone's Life? 5:17

3M ago5:17

5:17

Is it too late to start a new Instagram account in 2025? In this strategic episode, Dylan reveals the mindset shift that separates successful social accounts from those that fade into obscurity - regardless of platform or timing. You'll discover: Why most creators focus on the wrong questions when starting new accounts The critical difference betwe…

1
Stop Obsessing Over Format, Start Creating 5:06

3M ago5:06

5:06

Stuck deciding if your idea should be a video, blog, or newsletter? In this liberating episode, Dylan tackles the common mindset trap that stops creators from shipping their work: obsessing over format instead of focusing on the message. You'll discover: Why perfectionism about content format often masks deeper hesitations A refreshing perspective …

1
Accessible design systems with Karen Hawkins 36:40

3M ago36:40

36:40

S03E11 (#339). Karen Hawkins, accessible design practice lead at Level access and chair of the W3C ARRM group joins us to discuss accessibility and design systems. Design systems can really help improve accessibility, but in reality design teams often don’t know their exact responsibilities, leading to accessibility gaps in implementation. We talk …

1
When You Have Time But No Creative Energy 4:53

3M ago4:53

4:53

Ever set aside time to create content but just couldn't find the energy to record? In this refreshingly honest episode, Dylan shares a personal experience that challenges our understanding of creative consistency. You'll discover: Why forcing yourself to perform on "off" days might be counterproductive A simple two-mode system to maintain momentum …

1
Identity-Based Purchases and Content That Connects 6:54

3M ago6:54

6:54

Ever been instantly sold on a product before knowing its price? In this fascinating episode, Dylan shares a personal experience that reveals a powerful marketing insight: we often make decisions based on identity, not just value. You'll discover: Why Dylan almost impulsively purchased a $250 desk gadget he didn't need The psychological difference b…

1
Designer burnout with Katrina Alcorn 40:12

3M ago40:12

40:12

S03E10 (#338). About 15 years ago Katrina Alcorn suffered from burnout while managing a team of designers and raising a family. Drawing from her own experience, Katrina highlights during our conversation the importance of autonomy, connection, as well as purpose in the workplace. We discuss the ways in which burnout can be avoided and how to create…

1
Are You Too Smart for Content? 4:30

3M ago4:30

4:30

Ever felt like you're 'too smart' for social media content? In this insightful episode, Dylan addresses a hidden pattern he's noticed among highly educated and experienced creators - the struggle to translate deep knowledge into accessible content. You'll discover: Why even the most knowledgeable experts get stuck in overthinking, overloading, or g…

1
When to Wait on a Good Idea 3:17

4M ago3:17

3:17

Drowning in creative ideas but struggling to execute them all? In this focused episode, Dylan introduces the powerful concept of an 'idea budget' - a framework for managing creative energy without burning out. You'll discover: Why treating every spark like a full-blown project leads to exhaustion The counterintuitive truth about waiting on good ide…

1
Headspace with Cal Thompson 48:44

4M ago48:44

48:44

S03E09 (#337). Cal Thompson, VP of Product Design and Research at Headspace, joins us to talk about the evolution of Headspace from a pure mindfulness app to a comprehensive mental health platform, including health coaches and therapists. We chat about Headspace’s internal culture and how they manage being a healthy workplace as a health company. W…

1
Credibility Comes From Curiosity, Not Confidence 5:46

4M ago5:46

5:46

Think you need to be an expert to create valuable content? In this myth-busting episode, Dylan challenges the common belief that credibility comes from confidence, revealing why curiosity might be your most powerful asset as a creator. You'll discover: Why the 'expert trap' might be limiting your creative potential How sharing your learning process…

1
The Tension Between Evolving and Staying in Your Niche 6:38

4M ago6:38

6:38

Feeling trapped by your content niche? In this thoughtful episode, Dylan explores the tension many creators face between staying consistent and evolving creatively. You'll discover: Why feeling like "a parody of yourself" might be a warning sign The myth that creators owe consistency to their topic rather than their perspective How to evolve your c…

1
UX for business with Joel Marsh 44:24

4M ago44:24

44:24

S03E08 (#336). Inspired by feedback from his booked UX for beginners, Joel Marsh has written UX for business. A comprehensive guide for designers navigating real-world challenges. We talk to him about his own journey from design principles to practical business applications. We chat about Joel’s VDP methodology: Value, Diagnosis, and Probability, e…

1
When Consuming Content Drowns Your Voice 3:44

4M ago3:44

3:44

Feel like you're constantly consuming content but struggling to create your own? In this short but powerful episode, Dylan explores the sneaky ways that excessive content consumption can undermine your creative confidence and productivity. You'll discover: The warning signs that you're consuming too much content Why "research" and "staying informed…

1
What You Should Know About OpenAI's New Image Generator 18:02

5M ago18:02

18:02

OpenAI just revolutionized AI image generation, and in this episode, Dylan breaks down why it's a game-changer for creators. Whether you're curious or already experimenting with these types of tools, you'll discover practical applications that go far beyond basic image creation. You'll learn about: Why this update is leapfrogging competitors (hint:…

1
Service literacy with Lou Downe 41:29

5M ago41:29

41:29

S03E07 (#335). Lou Downe, author of Good Services and former director of design for the UK government joins us in this episode. We sat down with Lou and asked—Where is service design going wrong, and are we even doing service design? Among the topics we discussed were: The complexity of modern services and the complete reliance on infrastructure, a…

1
Use AI as Your Assistant, Not Your Replacement 11:15

5M ago11:15

11:15

Is AI replacing creativity or enhancing it? In this thought-provoking episode, Dylan reveals how top creators use AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Perplexity without sacrificing their unique voice or authentic perspective. You'll discover: Why blindly following AI suggestions could be diluting your content's uniqueness The critical difference bet…

1
Defending against evil with Aarathi Krishnan 40:39

5M ago40:39

40:39

S03E06 (#334). Aarathi Krishnan is an international aid expert, specialising in humanitarian futures and strategic foresight. In a world where the sets of rules that have governed us as humanity are rapidly changing, how will we know if the solutions that we are designing now are going to be fit for purpose? Aarathi pushes the importance of account…

1
Why Your First 5 Seconds Matter More Than The Rest of Your Content 7:25

5M ago7:25

7:25

Why do some videos instantly grab viewers while others get scrolled past? In this essential episode, Dylan breaks down the psychology of powerful hooks - the critical first seconds that determine whether your content succeeds or fails. You'll discover: The surprising origin of content hooks (hint: it wasn't social media) Three psychological princip…

1
I Used AI to Analyze My Best & Worst Posts (Here’s What I’ll Never Do Again) 12:14

5M ago12:14

12:14

Wondering why some of your content takes off while other posts flop? In this data-driven episode, Dylan shares surprising insights from his deep analysis of hundreds of posts across Instagram, TikTok, and his podcast using OpenAI's Deep Research ChatGPT tool. You'll discover: The unexpected content formats driving Dylan's highest engagement (hint: …

1
Fail early 42:42

6M ago42:42

42:42

S03E05 (#333). A linkshow. James and Per discuss two articles they’ve stumbled on. This time we feature articles about things that slow down your website’s experience and why you can’t do anything about it plus the concept of “failing early” but not in a “failing fast” startup way. Article one is Six things that slow down your site’s UX (and why yo…

1
The Right Way to Rebrand Your Podcast 23:34

6M ago23:34

23:34

Thinking about rebranding your podcast? In this interview, Dylan Schmidt sits down with Andy Murphy, host of the recently rebranded The Secure Family Podcast (formerly The Secure Dad Podcast), who hit #1 in Apple's parenting category just one month after his rebrand. Andy shares his complete journey from hesitation to execution, including: The surp…

1
Small mistakes podcast hosts repeat 8:05

6M ago8:05

8:05

Want to sound more polished and professional behind the mic? In this focused episode, Dylan Schmidt breaks down the common mistakes that even experienced podcast hosts make - and more importantly, how to fix them. You'll discover: • Why filler words might be sabotaging your message (and the natural alternative) • The surprising truth about intervie…

1
More systems thinking with Sheryl Cababa 48:47

6M ago48:47

48:47

S03E04 (#332). Two years on from when Sheryl Cababa released Closing The Loop, her book about systems thinking for designers, we hear Sheryls reflections and insights about what she’s learnt during that time and we grapple with the challenge of applying system thinking as designers “out of the box”. We work in a complex space, with many complex as …

1
My most commonly asked questions pt. 2 14:46

6M ago14:46

14:46

How do successful content creators manage their tools, set boundaries, and stay sane? In this episode, Dylan Schmidt answers four of his most commonly asked questions from coaching clients and social media DMs. You'll learn: A content professional's approach to managing essential tech subscriptions The powerful filter Dylan uses to decide what to s…

1
How AI helped me lose 43 pounds 12:16

7M ago12:16

12:16

In this episode: A surprising personal transformation that happened during one of my busiest years. How I used AI tools in an unexpected way to reach a major fitness goal. The power of tools that can adapt to life's chaos. And much more!By Dylan Schmidt

1
Murky middle with Christina Joy Whittaker 38:29

7M ago38:29

38:29

S03E03 (#331). Your destiny isn’t tied to a role. You were a person before your role. Leadership expert and strategist Christina Joy Whittaker talks to us about the murky middle, a phenomenon rooted in misalignment and purpose and quite distinct from imposter syndrome which is rooted in confidence. Christina shares her personal journey from corpora…

1
I got a million YouTube views, now what? 11:05

7M ago11:05

11:05

In this episode: A major milestone on YouTube and the surprising journey that led there. Why chasing views isn't always the best strategy for content creators. Differences between short-form and long-form content creation. And much more!By Dylan Schmidt

1
The illusion of platform loyalty 10:00

7M ago10:00

10:00

In this episode: The recent TikTok outage and what it revealed about our relationship with social platforms. Why betting everything on a single platform could put your content business at risk. A smarter approach to content distribution that gives you more control and stability. And much more!By Dylan Schmidt

1
The Great Amazon Heist with Oobah Butler 41:39

7M ago41:39

41:39

S03E02 (#330). Oobah Butler, journalist and filmmaker known for his prankster antics, joined us to discuss his work, including “The Great Amazon Heist” and “The Shed at Dulwich”. Oobah highlights the relative ease of manipulating algorithms, such as TripAdvisor and Amazon, to boost fake products’ rankings. We also discussed the broader implications…

1
Reflections on the LA wildfires 20:30

7M ago20:30

20:30

Click here to view LA Fire Mutual Aid Resources.By Dylan Schmidt

1
When creating more earns less 19:12

7M ago19:12

19:12

In this episode: A complete breakdown of the three-tier revenue system for content creators. How to price your services correctly and avoid common monetization pitfalls. Why creating more content doesn't always lead to earning more money, and how to break free from this cycle. And much more!By Dylan Schmidt

1
Dark mode 36:06

8M ago36:06

36:06

S03E01 (#329). In the first episode of Season Three, James Royal-Lawson and Per Axbom discuss the concept of dark mode, its benefits, and its implications for UX design, user experience and accessibility. We delve into the European accessibility directive, and the EN 301 549 European standard which includes a section on user preferences, requiring …

1
He's ignoring YouTube's biggest rule (and still winning) 16:27

8M ago16:27

16:27

In this episode: An unexpected conversation at a Christmas party that reveals important lessons about succeeding on YouTube without perfect production quality. How a creator built a thriving YouTube channel and Patreon community by focusing on audience connection over technical perfection. A simple but powerful thumbnail strategy that could transfo…

1
Why listeners abandon great shows 8:28

8M ago8:28

8:28

In this episode: What I learned from a fascinating Reddit thread about podcasts. The top reasons podcast listeners tune out of shows. A practical framework to evaluate your podcast. And much more!By Dylan Schmidt

1
Lessons from running a paid community 11:55

8M ago11:55

11:55

Click here to join The Creator Club: https://go.dylanschmidt.com/discord In this episode: My surprising decision about The Creator Club after 14 months of running a paid membership community. The hidden challenges of building an online community that nobody talks about. The unexpected path forward and what it means for creators like you. And much m…

1
Too many platforms not enough time 21:59

9M ago21:59

21:59

In this episode, I’m talking about: A candid breakdown of today's 10 major social media platforms. An insider look at which platforms are actually worth your time. Where different audiences are migrating. And much more!By Dylan Schmidt

1
Make Podcasting Easy In 2025 with Eric Silver 23:28

9M ago23:28

23:28

In this episode, I’m talking with Eric Silver about: What a podcast collective is (and how it differs from traditional podcast networks). The current push toward video podcasts on Spotify and YouTube. Finding balance between protecting your hobbies and monetizing your passions. And much more! Click here to learn more about Eric Silver. Click here t…

1
Spotify opens new money path 7:44

9M ago7:44

7:44

In this episode, I’m talking about: A new way to earn money from your Spotify podcast. Why Spotify's latest video features might be worth adding to your workflow. What Spotify's recent brand shift reveals about the future of podcasting. And much more!By Dylan Schmidt

1
The gap between thinking and creating 5:19

9M ago5:19

5:19

Welcome to this week’s episode of Digital Creator! In this episode, I’m talking about: The reason your best content ideas can crumble when recording. What Yale researchers discovered about how our brains trick us. 4 proven strategies to turn your mental content ideas into reality. And much more!By Dylan Schmidt

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The irony of low effort content 5:37

10M ago5:37

5:37

Welcome to this week’s episode of Digital Creator! In this episode, I’m talking about: The surprising truth about which content performs best (and why your most popular videos might be the ones you care about least). What a 1950s radio host teaches us about connecting with your audience. Why trying to make "perfect" imperfect content doesn't work. …

1
How to be confident on camera 9:37

10M ago9:37

9:37

Welcome to this week's episode of Digital Creator! In this episode, I'm talking about: The unexpected mindset shift that makes camera confidence easier Why focusing on the "wrong" things might be holding you back A simple framework for finding your natural speaking style And much more!By Dylan Schmidt

1
Why your future is bigger than you think 13:00

10M ago13:00

13:00

Welcome to this week’s episode of Digital Creator! In this episode, I’m talking about: A personal revelation about learning that changed my perspective on growth. Why your current frame of reference might be limiting your potential. The surprising reason why not knowing everything makes better content. And much more!…

1
5 Monetization Mistakes Creators Make 9:52

10M ago9:52

9:52

Welcome to this week’s episode of Digital Creator! In this episode, I’m talking about: The surprising truth about followers and making money A clever approach to working with brands (even with a small audience) The mindset shift that could drastically increase your earnings And much more!By Dylan Schmidt

1
Why are top podcasts adding video? 7:54

10M ago7:54

7:54

Welcome to this week’s episode of Digital Creator! In this episode, I’m talking about: Simple ways to start incorporating video into your podcast. The importance of creating an authentic environment for your show. Tips for improving your video podcast over time. And much more!By Dylan Schmidt

1
Attention spans aren’t shrinking 13:32

11M ago13:32

13:32

Welcome to this week’s episode of Digital Creator! In this episode, I’m talking about: Why audience attention spans aren't actually shrinking. How social media platforms create a "digital casino" environment. How to build deeper relationships with your audience through long-form content. And much more!…