► Tell us about you and your podcast
During the start of the pandemic, 3 preceptors of a secret society came together to form a podcast exploring all the dark secrets of the world. Mystery Mike, Declassified Dave and Slick Fronk Sanders explore conspiracy theories, cryptids, mysteries, fringe science and true crime. The members of this society, known as Hushlings are critical thinkers, adventurous, open minded and enjoy dark humor.
► Why & how did you start this podcast?
We decided we would share our thoughts and researched topics in an effort to find more people in this world like us. Those who have a few questions regarding the "official story." We hoped to reach out to as many people as possible and introduce them to a group and show with no judgement on beliefs outside the norm. The podcast is just over 2 years old and our first episodes came rather quickly. Recorded, researched, edited and released within just a few weeks.
► How'd you find the time and funding to do this podcast?
We released episodes every 1-2 weeks, which include our regular debriefings, exploring different subjects. Our Declassified Discussions, an interview style segment with well regarded authors, film makers, researchers and voices in the space of fringe theories. Beyond the usual platform costs we tend not to spend too much money on the show, we take time from our schedules and always find a way to record and promote as best we can.
► What do you gain from podcasting?
We have found through the podcast, we are connecting with many like minded individuals. We've formed bonds and even friendships with some of our Hushlings and it has been amazing. Beyond that we haven't taken on any sponsors or ad revenue. We are part of a video podcast network, that helps with operational costs.
► How does your podcasting process look like?
We research for long periods of time, combing through many different sources. We record using Zencastr for video and Discord for audio only episodes for our Patreon. The video is edited using Descript and audio with Audacity. When we do our Declassified Discussion interviews we also use Zencastr. All these tools and sites are the best we've found for our needs and ease of use.
► How do you market your show?
Mostly we have used social media to push our show. We have used other means such as street teams, giveaways, mailing lists and QR stickers. We've seen the majority of our download numbers come from Spotify. We aggregate to every possible platform we can.
► What advice would you share with aspiring (new) podcasters?
Just start. The biggest problem with getting going is to actually do it. Don't spend a year researching and trying to get everything perfect and then never do anything. What do they say about best laid plans?
Also, make sure your show is literally every where, every platform, every podcast app or site, anything and everything.
► Where can we learn more about you & your podcasts?
You can find all information on our show including social media links, platforms, episodes, blogs and our Patreon info, on our website www.hushhushsociety.com