I suppose just how to boost the idea? We're an up and coming podcast and we just want to know any sort of advice you could give about starting a podcast. What you wish you knew when you first started.
I remember when I was first doing research on releasing the show, some of the most prominent advice that I saw on the interwebs was to collect up a couple episodes and release them. I don’t think that worked in our favor. The easiest way to spread the show was through iTunes. Having active social media platforms is pretty important so that you can interact with not only fans but potential listeners.I feel that the thing that comes back and bites us regularly is the quality of our earlier episodes. We were just starting out and learning and didn’t have access to resources like we have now. Not that we even rival other podcasts in expense. BUT I do not regret releasing those episodes like that. Sure it means that they get brought up even now, but they got our foot in the door. People saw us, had the patience to listen through the first few episodes and found that they really did enjoy our show. We’re taking the time, now that we can to clean them up, and even rerecord some, but the most important part of creating is not being afraid to JUST CREATE. It may not be perfect. But even if 1 in 100 people see worth in what you’re making, even if at first it’s just you, it’s worth it. To be honest, when I listen to podcasts (when I find I have the time), the thing that draws me in is the story. If I want to hear the story you want to tell, I DON’T care what the quality of the product is at the beginning. I know it will get better as you learn. And if the story makes me happy, and feel good, all the better. The other thing I would say, is take accessibility seriously. Find a method to create the show that doesn’t alienate potential listeners. When we write episodes, I keep those transcripts and edit them for people who are hard of hearing, or deaf as I listen to the final cut of the episode. As a person who occasionally goes through bouts processing difficulties, it’s incredibly important to me. Put in that extra work, or bring on someone who can do that extra work, it will only benefit you in the long run.
Some advice that was given to me, that has been helpful, albeit hard to keep to and remember, is that you cannot please everyone. Some people are not going to find that your show is their cup of tea, some people lose interest, and sometimes you upset people. Listen if it’s important, don’t let it cut you if it’s not.
From what I see you guys may be going for a comedy angle. I would say if that is what you plan, even if you tackle harsh topics, make your goal to heal. Comedy is so effective as a balm to troubles, and fear. For me, whatever Jim Robbie and the Wanderers tackles, even if it gets bleak, there should always be that glimmer of hope, and that promise of healing.
I know this was a bunch of mumbo jumbo probably, and it was typed primarily off the cuff, I may have gotten a bit tangential. If I didn’t address something that you did want to address please let me know. I’m sure I could spill out more nonsense. - Iri