Podcast Junkies - Conversations with Fascinating Podcasters

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Ever wondered how to turn your passion into a thriving career? In this episode, I chat with Jay Franze, a seasoned music producer and podcast host, who has navigated the twists and turns of the music industry with remarkable success. Jay's journey from Boston to Nashville and beyond is filled with lessons on perseverance, adaptability, and the power of networking.

We dive into Jay's early memories of music, his experiences working with legendary artists like Dolly Parton and Keith Urban, and his transition from music production to podcasting. Jay shares how his relentless drive and willingness to embrace change have been key to his success, offering insights that are both inspiring and practical for anyone looking to make their mark in a creative field.

Beyond music, we explore Jay's adventures in the world of transportation logistics for touring artists and his foray into podcasting, where he continues to share stories and insights from his vast network. His candid anecdotes and behind-the-scenes tales provide a unique perspective on the entertainment industry.

Join us for an engaging conversation that promises to entertain and enlighten. Click to listen and discover how Jay Franze turned his dreams into reality!

Episode Sponsor

FullCast – https://fullcast.co/

Key Takeaways

0:00 Intro

5:55 Early Career in Boston

11:39 Music School Memories

17:20 Nashville Journey

24:08 Childhood and Drive

30:12 The It Factor in Music

36:04 Transition to Transportation

42:45 Podcasting Origins

49:45 Podcast Growth and Style

56:57 Influences and Inspirations

1:04:33 Misunderstandings and Humor

Tweetable Quotes

"I've always been a driven person. Even to this day, when I do something, I want to do it to the best I could possibly do it. I'm competitive. I want to be the best out there."

"Obsession leads to expertise. The things that I care about, I'm obsessive over. But then there's a balance with other things that I just like. Yeah, it is what it is."

"Luck is really when preparation meets opportunity. I was determined I was going to do those two things. I mean, determined. And no one was going to tell me no."

Resources Mentioned

Website - https://jayfranze.com/

Twitter - https://twitter.com/jayfranze

Instagram - http://instagram.com/jayfranze/

Facebook - http://facebook.com/jayfranze/

Podcast Junkies Website: podcastjunkies.com

Podcast Junkies YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Podcastjunkies/

Podcast Junkies Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/podcastjunkiesjunkies/

Podcast Junkies Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastjunkies

Podcast Junkies Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcast_junkies

Podcast...

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Are you ready to explore the world of travel podcasting and discover how to turn your passion into a thriving venture? In this episode, I speak with James Hammond, the host of the Winging It Travel Podcast. James is a seasoned traveler and podcaster who has journeyed through multiple countries, sharing his experiences and insights with a growing audience. With a background in music and a knack for storytelling, James has carved out a unique niche in the travel podcasting space.

We dive into James's journey from a music career to becoming a travel podcast host, discussing the challenges and triumphs along the way. James shares his strategies for creating engaging content, the importance of audio quality, and how he navigates the business side of podcasting. He also talks about his upcoming travel plans and how he prepares for trips to ensure he captures the best content for his audience.

Additionally, we touch on the differences between UK and US travel podcasts, the role of AI in content creation, and the collaborative nature of the podcasting community. Whether you're a budding podcaster or a travel enthusiast, this episode is packed with valuable insights and tips. Click play to join us on this exciting journey and learn how to elevate your travel podcasting game!

Episode Sponsor

FullCast – https://fullcast.co/

Key Takeaways

0:00 Intro

5:34 Podcast Beginnings

11:17 Travel Podcast Differences

18:24 El Salvador Travel Plans

25:32 Podcast as a Business

31:04 Podcasting Challenges

37:59 Using AI for Blogging

42:56 Future Podcast Goals

49:52 Podcasting Journey

Tweetable Quotes

"The industry is real tough and if you're ever exposed to that, I think you're going to have to realize that just being great at your instrument is great, but it's not enough. You need to do all the other stuff, which is like networking. Not being an idiot is quite an interesting part of it as well."

"I thought there was too many podcasts at the start when I joined. I do believe everyone's got different voice. And what I mean by that is that's a bit of a cliche, but in a travel perspective, if you went to Thailand tomorrow and I went to Thailand tomorrow for the same amount of time, even in the same places, we're going to have different story because things happen to you that's different to me."

"I think the real content there to really appeal is let's not give it away too much. Let's tell you what El Salvador is like and what I did and who I met and some sounds and some tips. But I want the imagination to not be completely gone. I want you to think, oh yeah, what else did he see? Like, should I go there?"

Resources Mentioned

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jameshammondtravel/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wingingittravelpodcast/?hl=en

Podcast Junkies Website: podcastjunkies.com

Podcast Junkies YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Podcastjunkies/

Podcast Junkies Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/podcastjunkiesjunkies/

Podcast Junkies...

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For the past few years I’ve been a huge fan of PodPage. I even had the Founder, Brenden Mulligan on Episode 291:

Brenden recently brought the one and only Dave Jackson on to the team and I was grateful to have Dave back on for a deep and thorough dive of ALL the PodPage features, screen by screen.

If you’ve been struggling to build a page for your show, this will show you the power of this all-inclusive this tool. Forget Wordpress, SquareSpace, WIX, those are great for general websites, but not ideal for podcasting.

PodPage is built from the ground up for podcasters who are serious about their show!

Sign up today and import your current show to get a site created in minutes:

https://podcastjunkies.com/podpage

The resources David mentioned:

Pensight (course creation) - https://pensight.com/

Fathom Analytics (Google Analytics alternative) - https://usefathom.com/

Flowsend (AI show notes) - https://fullcast.co/flowsend/

The Audience is Listening by Tom Webster - https://amzn.to/4hwHP0J

NOTE: These are affiliate links for which I receive a small commission when someone signs up for that service.

🎙️🎙️🎙️

Podcast Production & Marketing by FullCast

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Ever wondered how diverse backgrounds can lead to success in podcasting? In this episode, I speak with Pat Cheung, founder of Fanlist, a platform designed to enhance fan engagement for podcasters. With over 15 years in tech and a rich history in banking and UX design, Pat brings a unique perspective to the podcasting world.

We dive into Pat's journey from banking to tech entrepreneurship, exploring how his varied experiences shaped his approach to creating Fanlist. Pat shares insights on the importance of passion in entrepreneurship and how his love for solving problems with technology led him to the podcasting industry.

Beyond his entrepreneurial journey, we discuss the evolution of Fanlist from its beginnings as PodInbox to its current form, offering a suite of tools for podcasters to connect with and monetize their fanbase. We also touch on the challenges of marketing in the tech space and the role of AI in refining business strategies.

Join us for an engaging conversation that uncovers the intersections of tech, entrepreneurship, and podcasting. Click to listen and discover how Pat's story might inspire your own podcasting journey!

Episode Sponsor

FullCast – https://fullcast.co/

Key Takeaways

00:00 Intro

01:10 Transition from Banking to Tech Entrepreneurship

06:03 The Path to UX Design and Product Management

08:43 Founding a Healthcare Startup

15:06 Innovative Podcast Monetization

16:14 Evolution of Fanless from Pot Inbox

18:10 Innovative Fan Engagement Platform

37:35 The Art and Science of Real Estate Negotiation

46:26 Misunderstood Entrepreneurial Persona

Tweetable Quotes

"I feel like I've had many lives over the course of my career, and one life was in banking. I was in mortgages, learned a lot about that, and even tried to start a startup around real estate before."

"I just love the people that I meet in podcasting because they come in from such diverse backgrounds, and I have a pretty diverse one."

"I think there's a better way to do this. Maybe the ego got the best of me, really."

Resources Mentioned

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/patcheung/

Twitter/x - https://x.com/patcheung

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/patcheung

Podcast Junkies Website: podcastjunkies.com

Podcast Junkies YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Podcastjunkies/

Podcast Junkies Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/podcastjunkiesjunkies/

Podcast Junkies Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastjunkies

Podcast Junkies Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcast_junkies

Podcast Junkies LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/podcastjunkies

The Podosphere:

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Ever wondered how storytelling can transform lives and create lasting impact? In this episode, I chat with Scott Johnson, the host of "What Was That Like?" Scott is a seasoned podcaster who has mastered the art of storytelling, using his platform to share gripping, real-life experiences that resonate deeply with listeners.

We dive into the heart of Scott's podcasting journey, exploring how he transitioned from a computer business owner to a full-time podcaster. Scott shares the profound effects his show has had on both guests and listeners, from preserving memories to inspiring life-changing actions. His approach to storytelling not only captivates audiences but also provides a therapeutic outlet for those sharing their stories.

Beyond the main theme, we discuss Scott's experiences at podcasting conferences, his strategies for finding compelling stories, and the importance of creating a safe space for guests. Scott also shares insights into his marketing tactics and how he's built a thriving community around his podcast.

Curious to hear more about the power of storytelling and how it can impact lives? Click play and join us for an engaging conversation with Scott Johnson!

Episode Sponsor

FullCast – https://fullcast.co/

Key Takeaways

0:00 Intro

0:25 The Therapeutic Power of Podcasting

03:27 Transition from Computer Business to Podcasting

04:45 Early Tech Memories

10:23 Seeking Extraordinary Stories

17:18 The Power of Editing in Storytelling

19:51 Unforgettable Stories of Trauma and Resilience

29:28 The Fascination with Lottery Winners

38:22 Guerrilla Marketing for Podcasters

42:47 The Power of Podcast Promo Swaps

49:03 Misconceptions About Veganism

54:13 Evolution of Podcast Conferences

Tweetable Quotes

"The gratification of seeing the effect the show has on other people and guests and listeners is incredible. I've had guests tell me it's been therapeutic to share their story in detail with someone genuinely interested in hearing it."

"I started podcasting in 2012 with a computer business podcast, doing weekly tips for non-techie people. It was designed to get more clients, but now my new show has taken the front seat."

"The power of storytelling is immense. I love when guests share their stories, and sometimes they cry while reliving their experiences. It's an honor to bring these stories to people."

Resources Mentioned

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/pctutor/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wwtl_podcast/

Podcast Junkies Website: podcastjunkies.com

Podcast Junkies YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Podcastjunkies/

Podcast Junkies Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/podcastjunkiesjunkies/

Podcast Junkies Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastjunkies

Podcast Junkies Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcast_junkies

Podcast Junkies LinkedIn:

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In this episode, I speak with Brandon Birkmeyer, the host of the Brands on Brands podcast and author of "Front and Center Leadership." We dive into the serendipitous way we connected through mutual friends and podcasting events, and how those late-night conversations at conferences often spark the best ideas. Brandon shares his journey from corporate life to becoming a podcast host and author, emphasizing the importance of building a personal brand and the value of genuine relationships in the podcasting community.

Brandon opens up about his transition from a corporate career to entrepreneurship, highlighting the challenges and rewards of taking control of his own narrative. We discuss the process of writing his book, the significance of personal branding, and the strategies he uses to secure speaking engagements. Brandon's insights into networking, content creation, and the power of taking initiative are not only inspiring but also practical for anyone looking to make a similar leap.

This conversation is packed with valuable lessons and personal anecdotes that will resonate with anyone interested in personal growth and professional development.

Episode Sponsor

FullCast – https://fullcast.co/

Key Takeaways

0:00 Intro

2:37 Transition from Door-to-Door Sales to Podcasting

4:00 Brandon's Podcasting Journey

6:32 The Impact of Interviews on Content Creation

8:24 The Power of Structured Brainstorming

13:00 Travis Chappell's Impact on Personal Branding

14:19 Realizing the Importance of Networking

15:39 Building Authority and Credibility

18:54 The Struggles of Job Hunting

20:59 Overcoming Reluctance in Professional Settings

23:32 Brandon's Cross-Country Move for Love and Career

25:24 The Reluctant Author's Journey

36:18 Balancing Business and Personal Life

38:39 Brandon's Strategy for Securing Speaking Gigs

41:04 The Concept of Focusing on Your Genius Zone

43:01 Balancing Podcasting and Other Projects

47:47 Embracing a Dynamic Personal Brand

49:09 The Value of Being a Generalist

52:09 Misunderstood Extroversion

53:20 Building Deep Connections at Conferences

Tweetable Quotes

"For me, perspective is power. That was what I was gaining from doing it."

"I think there's three pieces to what I think really rounds you out when you're developing your reputation: content creation, networking, and creating impact through value creation."

"I realized if I can pay the premium upfront to get the momentum started, then I can figure out how to make this more efficient and save money."

Resources Mentioned

LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/bbirkmeyer

Twitter - https://twitter.com/bbirkmeyer

Instagram - https://instagram.com/brandonbirkmeyer/

Facebook - https://facebook.com/bbirkmeyer

Podcast Junkies Website: podcastjunkies.com

Podcast Junkies YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Podcastjunkies/

Podcast Junkies Facebook Group:

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In this episode, I speak with Dana Goodyear, a staff writer at The New Yorker and the host of the podcast Lost Hills. Dana shares her journey from being an English major to landing her first job at The New Yorker, where she started as an assistant to two nonfiction editors. She recounts her early days of learning the ropes, reading extensively, and eventually working directly with David Remnick, the editor-in-chief. Dana's career path is fascinating, as she transitioned from writing profiles and investigative pieces to diving into the world of podcasting. Her passion for storytelling and her love for true crime led her to create Lost Hills, a podcast that delves into the dark and mysterious crimes of Malibu.

Dana's insights into the making of Lost Hills are truly captivating. She talks about the challenges and rewards of investigative reporting, the importance of collaboration, and the unique storytelling potential of podcasts. Dana also shares some behind-the-scenes stories about the production process, including the intense research, door-knocking, and the occasional threats she faced. Her dedication to uncovering the truth and bringing these stories to life is inspiring.

If you're a fan of true crime and want to hear about the intriguing and often hidden stories of Malibu, this episode is a must-listen.

Episode Sponsor

FullCast – https://fullcast.co/

Key Takeaways

0:00 Intro

4:43 Discovery of Podcasting

10:18 The My Teresa Richardson Story

11:50 Malibu's Complex Identity

16:29 Malibu's Exclusive Community

18:28 Malibu Creek State Park Shootings

21:31 Dark Side of Mickey Dora

22:32 Unsolved Case of Maitrice Richardson

26:14 Law Enforcement's Role in the Maitrice Case

31:42 Mental Toll of Investigative Reporting

35:00 Safety Concerns in Investigative Journalism

37:55 Podcast Production Process

39:48 Art of Asking Tough Questions

43:55 Dana Goodyear's Experience with Narrative Podcasts

45:37 Future Plans for Lost Hills Podcast

Tweetable Quotes

"I was an English major in college, and I got to New York having very minimal employment. I was working as an unpaid intern at the Paris Review and writing book reviews for various publications. A friend who was ahead of me in school landed a job at the New Yorker and told me about an opening for an assistant. That’s how I started at the New Yorker."

"I remember right around the time I got my first iPhone, there was this weird icon I didn’t know. I found Rachel Maddow and started listening to a ton of her podcasts. For years, that was the only podcast I knew about until things developed in that space."

"When I started making Lost Hills, just being able to bring people’s voices to the listeners was so cool to me. I feel like I’m hosting a party of these sources and the listeners. It’s a unique way to translate the experience to the audience."

Resources Mentioned

Twitter - https://x.com/danagoodyear

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/danagoodyear/?hl=en

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/p/Dana-Goodyear-100065190092636/?_rdr

Podcast Junkies Website: podcastjunkies.com

Podcast Junkies YouTube:

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In this episode, I speak with Jeremy Slate, the host of the Jeremy Ryan Slate Show. We kick things off with a light-hearted chat about our shared love for wooden wall backgrounds and quickly dive into Jeremy's unique journey. From his early days working on a farm with a character known as Bikini Joe to his unexpected stint as a high school teacher, Jeremy shares how these experiences shaped his work ethic and resilience. We also touch on his transition from network marketing and life insurance to becoming a podcast host, where he found his true calling. Jeremy's candid storytelling and humor make for an engaging conversation that you won't want to miss.

We also explore Jeremy's deep interest in the Roman Empire and how it has influenced his current work and worldview. He explains how studying ancient civilizations has given him a unique perspective on modern-day issues, particularly in politics and culture. Jeremy's passion for history and his ability to connect it to contemporary life is both enlightening and thought-provoking. Whether you're a history buff or just curious about how past events shape our present, this episode offers valuable insights and plenty of laughs.

Tune in to hear Jeremy's fascinating journey and his take on the importance of having meaningful conversations in today's world.

Episode Sponsor

FullCast – https://fullcast.co/

Key Takeaways

0:00 Intro

5:12 Growing Up on a Farm and Learning Practical Skills

7:43 Jeremy Slate's Journey to Podcasting

13:35 Jeremy Slate's Podcast Evolution

16:44 Jeremy's Influences in Interviewing

20:40 Alexander the Great's Leadership Dynamics

28:02 Advice on Handling Audience Shifts

31:24 Jeremy Slate's Podcast Philosophy

35:32 Civilization Shifting and Community Involvement

44:10 Jeremy Slate's Inspiring Story

Tweetable Quotes

"I think the interesting thing about growing up in a rural area is that you're generally expected to know how to do things. I can drive a tractor, change brakes, and even replace an engine. It's just part of the lifestyle."

"When I started my podcast, I didn't have a plan. I was reading a lot of personal development books and thought, wouldn't it be cool to learn from the authors? It wasn't about making money; it was about having meaningful conversations."

"The pandemic was a turning point for me. I saw a lot of poor management and encroachment on civil rights. I realized that talking to another best-selling author wasn't going to address these issues. I wanted to have real conversations about what's happening in the world and how to navigate it."

Resources Mentioned

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-ryan-slate-bb7b284a/

Twitter - https://twitter.com/JeremyRyanSlate

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jeremyryanslate/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Jeremyryanslate/

Podcast Junkies Website: podcastjunkies.com

Podcast Junkies YouTube:

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In this episode, I speak with Oskar Serrander, Co-founder of Wondercraft. Oskar shares his fascinating journey from his early days at iHeart and Spotify to his current venture in the world of AI-driven audio production. We dive into his passion for audio, which started with a love for music and evolved into a career that has seen him at the forefront of some of the most significant innovations in the industry. Oskar's insights into the evolution of audio technology and his vision for making audio production more accessible are truly inspiring.

We also explore Oskar's personal experiences, including his time at a Zen monastery and how it influenced his approach to life and work. His stories about the early days at Spotify, the challenges of launching in the U.S., and the cultural differences between working at Spotify and iHeart are both enlightening and entertaining. Oskar's enthusiasm for audio and his commitment to innovation shine through in our conversation, making this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of audio technology.

Episode Sponsor

FullCast – https://fullcast.co/

Key Takeaways

0:00 Intro

19:18 Oskar's Journey with acast

24:55 Oskar Serrander's Mentorship Experience

27:45 Advice on Work-Life Balance

30:32 Oskar's Journey from Acast to Wondercraft

34:18 Undervalued Audio Advertising

40:27 Wondercraft's Role in Democratizing Audio

46:09 Future of Podcasting and Audio Consumption

Tweetable Quotes

"I grew up in a home where there was music on always. My dad was a huge music buff, and he introduced me to jazz and classical, and then my two older brothers introduced me to metal. So I had a wide spectrum of noise growing up."

"What I really wanted to do is create an audio production tool for producing studio-quality content in any language, just by typing. The technology is finally here to make that possible."

"I love always having a beginner's mindset. It gives me so much energy and makes me feel like I'm always choosing the adventure path, even though I've been in the industry for a long time."

Resources Mentioned

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/oskarserrander/

Twitter - https://x.com/oskarserrander

Podcast Junkies Website: podcastjunkies.com

Podcast Junkies YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Podcastjunkies/

Podcast Junkies Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/podcastjunkiesjunkies/

Podcast Junkies Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastjunkies

Podcast Junkies Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcast_junkies

Podcast Junkies LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/podcastjunkies

The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

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