Panic, gratitude and show notes: A day in the life of a podcaster
For an explanation of this run, please read this.
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Questions from Reina Shishikura:
- What was the most terrifying moment you have had in your career as a podcaster?
- Personally, what have you gained from being a podcaster?
- How long does it take to edit your podcasts and to make show notes?
Fortunately, there have been no terrifying moments. Mild panic, but, did set in a few era:
- When I foolishly did a software upgrade shortly before tape a Skype call, the software I’d been by for ages suddenly made an echo on the connection. In 20 minutes, I had to find, install and test new tape software. Lesson learned: ALWAYS test first, and NEVER do an upgrade right before tape a client’s interview.
- When my hard drive failed in the midpoint of a major podcasting project, I lost just one file. At that time, I was by CDs for many backups; unfortunately, the CD in question was defective. So, I had a fried hard drive and a CD that could be used only as a coaster. My normal routine today is to keep the first file on the flash memory card in the recorder, another copy on my Mac, a third copy on my Time Capsule and a fourth in the cloud (via my Mobile Me tab). Paranoid? No, just cautious.
To answer your second question, I’ve found podcasting to be very satisfying personally and professionally. I like to learn, and there’s always something new to figure out, whether it’s the craft of audio, the shiny gadgets that constantly come on the market, or the new applications of social media to podcasting. Thanks to podcasting, I’ve met so many talented and generous people around the world; many have become excellent friends. I’m unbelievably grateful for these connections. On the practical side, offering podcasting services to my clients has helped them to communicate better with their audiences, while helping me to expand my business.
I’m a huge fan of editing, but it is time-consuming. I’ve answered a similar question about podcast editing here. As for show notes… Ah, in some ways they’re the bane of my existence. Just when you reckon you’re finished with editing and publishing your podcast, it’s time to write the show notes. If you’re a podcaster like me, anyhow. I’ve oral before about the value of show notes for search engine optimization, for the listeners’ convenience, and for the sake of your interview guest. As Julien Smith says, “Google despises you” if you’re a podcaster who doesn’t do show notes. Read and listen here.