Podcasting on a sticky note: Authenticity wins the day
When I started my podcast five years ago, all I had was an old laptop, a story to tell, and plenty of questions I wanted answers to. This isn't just a guide; it's my journey through the challenges and triumphs of creating a podcast in the DE&I space, sharing with you the lessons I've learned along the way.
Why My Podcast Matters to Me
My podcasting journey began with a strong 'why': to share diverse stories of neurodiversity and foster understanding. There were days with few listeners and technical mishaps, but my passion for sharing these important stories kept me going.
When stuff went and it often did, I remembered the single fact, there were not enough real people with lived experience sharing their stories. Without these stories, we were reliant on archaic medical, pathologised information that didn’t humanly connect with me. I found a lot of it to be trauma-inducing and in some instances factually inaccurate.
Navigating the Tech Landscape
In the beginning, I used simple tools. I’ve learned that it's not just about having the best tech; it's how you use it. Here’s what I use now:
Microphone: The Yeti X Professional USB Microphone. Initially, I struggled with the settings, but a simple tweak made a world of difference. For those starting out, the Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB and Rode NT-USB Mini are great alternatives.
Webcam: I upgraded to a Logitech BRIO 4K Ultra HD webcam, but the Logitech C920 HD Pro is a solid choice for those on a budget.
Editing Software: I use Audacity for audio and Veed for video editing. GarageBand is a good alternative for Mac users, and Adobe Premiere Rush is great for video editing too.
The Art of Authentic Conversations
One of the most important lessons I've learned is creating a safe and respectful space for my guests. It's about understanding their stories and ensuring they feel comfortable and heard.
If they are not comfortable, I am not comfortable sharing their story. I’ve canned episodes before with the guests permission, because I’ve felt they are not yet in a place where they are going to feel comfortable with what they’ve shared going out into the wider world.
Valuing Every Voice
My first episode with Jamie Leonard taught me that every voice matters. It was recorded on the most basic of tech, a cheap laptop, utilising the laptop mic, yet it remains my most popular episode. This showed me that authenticity is key – more than any fancy equipment.
Staying True to Myself
Throughout this journey, being true to myself has been paramount. My sincerity and dedication to the cause have resonated more with my audience than any polished production ever could.
I may not have the biggest podcast, or the largest audience, but I am proud of every single episode and not once have felt that a guest has been in there just for views or to ignite controversy.
Real conversations, with real people, being real!
Knowing When to Pause
There have been times when the podcast felt overwhelming. I learned that it's okay to take a break. Your well-being is crucial, and sometimes stepping back can provide much-needed perspective and rejuvenation.
Conclusion: Embrace Your Unique Voice
My journey in podcasting is a story of learning, adapting, and staying committed to amplifying diverse voices. As you start your own podcast, remember that your unique voice, filled with authenticity and empathy, is what truly connects with your audience.
Don’t get hung up on metrics and keep the faith, if you need to hear the words and stories, so will others.
Your Podcasting Path
As my podcasting journey continues, I invite you to listen to both my first and most recent episodes. Compare them – you might notice differences, or you might find that the heart of my message has remained consistent. It's a testament to how far I've come, both in technical skills and in my journey of amplifying diverse voices.
Remember, when recording remotely, you have control over your tech, but not always over your guest's. And that's perfectly fine. In fact, it's essential. Your guests are the stars of the show, sharing their unique perspectives and experiences. Their voices should shine, and as the host, your role is to facilitate that, ensuring their stories are heard loud and clear.
So, why not give my podcasts a listen? Reflect on the journey, the evolution, and the unwavering authenticity. And as you embark on your own podcasting adventure, keep these lessons in mind. Embrace your voice, stay true to your mission, and create a space where every story matters.