Trafcom News: Panic, gratitude and show notes: A day in the life of a podcaster

Fifth in a series

For an explanation of this series, please read this.
To see all the posts in this series, click here.

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 create show notes?

Fortunately, there have been no terrifying moments. Mild panic, however, did set in a few times:

When I foolishly did a software upgrade shortly before recording a Skype call, the software I’d been using for ages suddenly created an echo on the connection. In 20 minutes, I had to find, install and test new recording software. Lesson learned: ALWAYS test first, and NEVER do an upgrade right before recording a client’s interview.

When my hard drive failed in the middle of a major podcasting project, I lost just one file. At that time, I was using 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 original 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 account). Paranoid? No, just cautious.

To answer your second question, I’ve found podcasting to be very satisfying personally and professionally. I love 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 good 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 big 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 think you’re finished with editing and publishing your podcast, it’s time to write the show notes. If you’re a podcaster like me, anyway. I’ve spoken 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 hates you” if you’re a podcaster who doesn’t do show notes. Read and listen here.