6 chapters across the catalog
The hosts discuss the history of the Pocket Casts app, which was originally funded by NPR and PBS before being sold and eventually acquired by Matt Mullenweg's company, Automattic. The app has since been open-sourced and integrated with Podcasting 2.0 features, such as the "funding tag." This allows users to support creators directly through the app interface, bypassing traditional advertising models.
The show's artwork, such as the "Canadian Cow" by Gun Monkey, plays a role in search engine optimization and listener engagement. Modern podcast apps like Pocket Casts now support Podcasting 2.0 chapters and high-resolution art. Producers are encouraged to submit AI-assisted and original pieces to the No Agenda Art Generator.
The hosts discuss the "Value for Value" funding model, which relies on listener donations rather than corporate advertising to maintain editorial independence. They highlight the growth of the "Troll Room" live audience and the adoption of modern podcasting features like chapters and transcripts. The segment encourages listeners to support the show through time, talent, or treasure.
The hosts discuss the artwork for the current episode, crediting Nessworks and Sketch Sage for their contributions. They highlight the "Ozempic Plateau" theme and discuss the technical aspects of AI-generated art. Adam Curry also notes that the Pocket Casts app now supports Podcasting 2.0 chapters.
Google Play Mastodon Ban, Apple China Censorship, Pocket Casts
Google Play has begun removing apps that connect to Mastodon servers, citing concerns over "hate speech" on the decentralized network. Simultaneously, Apple has removed the "Pocket Casts" app from its Chinese App Store at the request of the Chinese government. The hosts criticize these tech giants for their inconsistent application of content standards and their compliance with authoritarian regimes.
The removal of InfoWars from Apple's podcast directory revealed the industry's over-reliance on Apple's API, as many third-party apps like Overcast and Pocket Casts automatically mirrored the ban. A proposal is made to create a new, decentralized, and indestructible open-source podcast directory to prevent future centralized censorship.
