TECHNOLOGY
Podcasting A Creative Outlet
Interview with seasoned podcast host, Chris Redekop
With a couple of cheap microphones and a direct line to his computer, Chris Redekop started his own podcast back in 2014. As he developed a following, he eventually picked up some high end microphones, mic stands and a multi-channel mixer and set up a home studio.
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edekop’s bi-monthly podcast focused on pop culture and the local art scene (Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada) and followed two formats: interviews and round table discussions. Over time Redekop switched from in-person interviews to phone interviews and discussions to facilitate the process. SAY sat down with Redekop to find out more about how someone can go about starting their own podcast. SAY Magazine: Why podcasting? Redekop: For me, it was a way to talk to people whose work I was interested in, and it was a way to promote their art form. It was a way for me to share information I’m interested in via a creative outlet. Anytime you’re creating content, you are making something out of nothing, and it does require a commitment and a passion for what you’re talking about. SAY Magazine: What types of podcasts are most popular? There are a variety of podcasts out there, from high-end radio show types that collect content over months or even years to curated documentary-style podcasts that use audio equipment to record content on location and then piece them together to create a time sensitive formal production. There are also free-form casts that resemble
28 | CAREER & SKILL DEVELOPMENT
the days of talk radio with Howard Stern with open discussions and no time limit. SAY Magazine: Is podcasting a lucrative business? Redekop: It depends on how many people are paying attention to your podcast— that’s when you can start to monetize it. There are some popular podcasts out there that make money, but you have to be pretty relentless in creating content before you get a following happening. Once you get to that level of persistence and exposure, you can seek sponsorship and plug your sponsors at the front end of your podcast. SAY: What advice do you have for people interested in hosting a podcast? Redekop: If you are interested in hosting your own podcast, it is relatively inexpensive and not all that complicated. You can host a basic podcast online for next to nothing, and there are platforms that you can access for free. All you need to get started is a passion for an issue/subject, a cheap mic, a computer and some time. Redekop recently decided to shut down his podcast because of the time commitment it required but is looking forward to starting up again soon. He encourages anyone who is thinking about starting a podcast and has the gift of gab to go for it. “It’s a fun and creative experience,” said Redekop.
“Anytime you’re creating content, you are making something out of nothing, and it does require a commitment and a passion for what you’re talking about.”