# Chatmosa Session - Mic Check: Startup Voices & Podcast Power
In our latest Chatmosa session, "Mic Check: Startup Voices & Podcast Power," we explored the vibrant world of podcasting with insights from seasoned podcasters Jason Ball and Auntie Derek. As attendees at LA Tech Week gathered both in person and digitally, the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation for practical advice on launching and sustaining a podcast in today’s competitive landscape.
### The Journey to Podcasting
The session kicked off with a brief overview of Jason and Auntie's unique backgrounds. Jason, a former media executive turned podcaster, shared, "I started exploring audio and podcasting after 30 years in traditional TV news. My podcast, *Life After News*, highlights the journeys of broadcasters transitioning from the newsroom." After launching his podcast in May 2023, Jason remarked on the challenge of maintaining motivation as he experiences what he termed "pod fade," a common hurdle for many creators.
On the flip side, Auntie Derek brought his comedic flair to the discussion, explaining how his love for daytime shows and celebrity interviews led him to create *Daytime Tea*, which he launched during the pandemic. “I started with just my laptop and a headset, and now I host a daily live podcast with my friends,” he shared. His stories underscored how embracing spontaneity and community can fuel a podcast's growth.
### Challenges and Triumphs
A key focus of the session was the challenges both hosts faced while building their platforms. Jason emphasized that having a robust network made it easier to find initial guests, offering, "Securing content and storytelling is crucial. Spend less on equipment and more on promotable content." Meanwhile, Auntie Derek battled initial apathy from potential listeners; he revealed, "It’s tough getting people to engage initially, even when offering free promotions."
The duo shared their creative processes in preparing episodes and handling post-production. Jason meticulously schedules recordings, edits, and promotes each episode, while Auntie Derek curates trending topics across social media, creating a blend of humor and genuine conversation. Their varying approaches showcased that there is no singular path to success in podcasting.
### Key Insights and Takeaways
Several actionable insights emerged from the discussion, including:
1. Don't Overinvest in Equipment: Both hosts agreed that investing in high-quality audio and editing software is essential but not at the expense of content quality. "Focus your resources on promotion instead," Jason advised.
2. Consistency is Key: Ashton, a budding podcaster, echoed this sentiment, stressing the importance of frequency and engagement with the audience. "Even a short update keeps your listeners in the loop," she said.
3. Embrace Your Unique Voice: Auntie Derek urged aspiring podcasters not to imitate others but to carve out their own niche, stating, "If you reach just one person with your podcast, you’ve done your job."
4. Build a Community: Both hosts highlighted the benefits of engaging with listeners, leveraging social media to foster a connection that goes beyond the audio itself.
5. Manage Expectations: A common theme was the need to maintain passion without getting bogged down by metrics. Jason advised against obsessing over numbers for the first year, and Auntie agreed, underlining the idea that sustainability in podcasting thrives on authentic growth rather than immediate metrics.
### Final Thoughts
The session culminated in an interactive Q&A, where audience members inquired about promotional strategies and challenges related to their own podcasts. Jason’s foray into multiple podcast ventures sparked lively exchanges about branding and social media strategies, while Auntie shared anecdotes of building a vibrant community around his daily show.
As we wrapped up, it became clear that podcasting is not just about the end product but about the journey, community, and stories shared along the way. With each episode, podcasters like Jason and Auntie not only entertain but also forge connections that resonate deeply with their audiences. Dive into their respective shows for a closer look at their unique styles, and continue following our Blog for more insights from future sessions.
Whether you're an aspiring podcaster or a seasoned creator, remember that the mic is in your hands—your story deserves to be shared.