9 chapters across the catalog
The traditional CPM (cost per mille) advertising model is increasingly viewed as unsustainable for the podcasting industry due to unreliable download metrics. Critics argue that the industry is plagued by "scammy" practices, such as using video game rewards to inflate subscriber numbers. The "Value for Value" model is proposed as a more honest alternative for content monetization.
Sam Harris, Subscription Model vs. Value-for-Value
The hosts critique Sam Harris's decision to move his "Making Sense" podcast to a partial subscription model. Harris claims the donation model is "broken," but the hosts argue that he simply failed to implement it correctly. They contrast his "paywall" approach with their own "value-for-value" model, asserting that cutting off 95% of an audience is a strategic mistake for an information-based show.
Value for Value Model, Advertising Skepticism, and Creative Freedom
The hosts argue against the traditional advertising model for podcasting, citing the intrusive nature of commercial breaks and the loss of creative control. They advocate for a "church model" where listeners support the content after consuming it, rather than paying in advance. This "Value for Value" philosophy is presented as the key to maintaining an unfiltered broadcast.
No Agenda Value Proposition, SiriusXM Criticism
The hosts contrast the No Agenda donation model with traditional media like SiriusXM, which they criticize for running deceptive advertisements for products like "SuperBeats." They argue that hosts like Thom Hartmann cannot be critical of companies like Uber because they rely on their advertising revenue. The segment concludes with a final round of birthday wishes and "karma" for the producers.
Direct Support Model, Church and Novel Comparisons
Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak compare their donation-based model to the financial structures of churches and the sale of novels. They argue that avoiding advertisers allows for a better, uncompromised product and a closer connection to the audience. They express a disdain for the "hard breaks" and commercial interruptions that ruin the flow of mainstream broadcasts.
Podcast One, Industry Measurement Standards and Network Failures
The hosts analyze the 10th Annual Podcast Awards and the involvement of Podcast One, led by Westwood One founder Norm Pattis. Curry argues that the podcast network model is fundamentally flawed, citing his own experience with Podshow as evidence that centralized networks struggle with measurement and creator relations. They discuss the lack of a central authority like Nielsen or Arbitron in the podcasting space and the difficulties of scaling advertising across diverse shows.
No Agenda Karma and Carbonite Acquisition News
The hosts share a success story from a listener who received a job offer after a "karmic shout" on the show. They also discuss Carbonite's acquisition of Fanfare and the subsequent cancellation of lifetime backup deals, using it as an example of why the traditional advertising model compromises media integrity.
NPR Pledge Drive Opt-Out, Commercial vs. Non-Commercial Media
NPR introduces a new $45 digital stream that allows listeners to bypass pledge drives, a move the hosts compare to paying a subway musician to stop playing. They define "commercial" media as a model where the audience is the product sold to advertisers, whereas their own show treats the programming as the product. They emphasize their "value-for-value" model as the only way to remain truly independent.
No Agenda Value-for-Value Model, Advertising Avoidance
The hosts explain the "Value-for-Value" business model, which relies on direct listener support rather than traditional advertising. They argue that avoiding advertisers allows for a better show flow and prevents corporate influence over their content. John Dvorak considers implementing a similar model for his other program, DH Unplugged.
