S12E2: Clearing the Tech Hurdles

Podcasting is the premier medium for building intimacy between show and listeners. One of the biggest hurdles your Disability Service faces is the tech. At least in the minds of those contemplating a move into podcasting, this can seem a messy, complicated area to master.

For most aspiring to podcast, tech means microphones. To be fair, there are a seemingly bewildering number of mics in the wild. Mics are just one part of the tech stack. Somewhat confusingly, that stack is both hardware and software and mindset changes will be required to grasp what’s actually required.

This is where group coaching programs can be incredibly beneficial. This is especially so when the coach has a podcasting, not radio, not music and not film based background. The thing is, the tech is one of the lower order issues once your service’s show is up and running. Get it right to start with and you rarely need to consider it again. (I know, heresy. We’ll see. Come with me.)

  • Community Support:

One of the most significant benefits of a group coaching program is the sense of community it provides. When you’re part of a group of like-minded individuals who are all working towards a similar goal, it can be incredibly motivating and empowering. The greater the number of participants, to a point, obviously, the greater the whole is compared to the sum of its parts. Let’s start with microphones and get them out of the way. Every situation, that is, every podcaster will be using a different space to record. They will have nuances particular to their voices and how that interacts with their recording space. Assuming an indoor fixed setup. A good coach will outline the principles behind mic choices and make recommendations based on years of experience and 1000s of episodes. This can also cover variations in price points as well as variations in mic performance and purpose.

Program members then make their decisions and these feed back into the group meetings. You can share your experiences, ask questions and learn from others who may have already overcome the same mic fears you’re facing. This sense of community can help you feel less alone in your journey and give you the confidence to tackle any technical challenges that come your way.

These same principles apply to setting up your recording space, how to record outdoors and which Digital Audio Workspace fits best with your temperament and budget.

  • Expert Guidance:

In a group coaching setting, you have access to expert guidance from those who have walked your path before and those walking it beside you. A great coach, while having experience, is al;so open to new ideas, discoveries by the group members. They should have sufficient experience to spot a “Trap for young players” versus “That’s a genuinely great new idea.”  Overcoming the fear of deciding on the tech is an important first stage in a good coaching program.

  • Accountability:

Another benefit of a group coaching program is the accountability it provides. When you’re part of a group, you’ll have regular check-ins and deadlines to meet, which can help keep you on track and motivated. Knowing that you have a group of people who are counting on you to show up and do the work can be a powerful motivator to overcome any tech fears you may have. Additionally, having a coach and a group of peers to hold you accountable can help you stay focused and committed to your podcasting goals. In the end this accountability is not about being in school but about getting your service’s Voice to the world and that only happens when someone sits behind a mic and records something. 

  • Feedback and Support:

In a group coaching program, receiving feedback and support from both your coach and your peers is a major benefit compared with taking an online course and ferreting around YouTube to find what might be sound advice but may not be. How are you to know? Feedback, gently and sensitively delivered, is incredibly valuable when it comes to overcoming tech fears in podcasting. Whether you’re struggling with a specific technical issue or you’re feeling overwhelmed by the process, having a supportive group of people who can offer advice, encouragement and constructive criticism is incredibly helpful. This feedback helps you identify areas for improvement and develop the skills and confidence you need to succeed in podcasting.

Conclusion:

A good group coaching program is a safe space to face your fears of the tech monsters lurking in the background of your mind. A great coach has faced these fears themselves and has the humanity to walk you through the pitfalls to a solution that fits both you and your situation.

If you’re interested in joining such a group coaching program, click on the link in the show notes entitled: From Dreamer to Podcaster.

The next episode in season 12 is about finding your niche. There are many more possibilities than first meets the eye for a Disability Service in this area. I think you’ll enjoy the episode.