► Tell us about you and your podcast
Adam Winston, Certified Dog Trainer and Behaviorist, former Air Force Radio and Television Broadcast Producer - Dogs in Our World is a series that explores society's relationship with domestic dogs. Each episode features an author or expert. Listeners interested in learning about history, science, philosophy, art.... and dogs... will enjoy the show.
► Why & how did you start this podcast?
I love listening to educational podcasts. There are many podcasts about dog training, but I wanted to create a show that is more of a documentary style series and attempts to find answers to bigger questions about dogs. After months of prep, in January of 2017, I released my first episode that documented my meeting with wolves as I began my journey to learn more about dogs. I use my old radio news production experience and passion for learning about dogs in order to share new discoveries and information about domestic dogs with the public.
► How'd you find the time and funding to do this podcast?
Dogs in Our World is on a monthly release schedule. The first season tells a story and I release new content each month. This show takes up nearly all of my free time. However, podcasting has been instrumental in the development of both my personal and professional life. I bootstrapped this podcast and saved money by using my knowledge and experience in audio production. I feel that my audio quality is better than most self-produced podcasts. I always strive for broadcast quality sound and engaging content. Listen for yourself!
► What do you gain from podcasting?
I'm using this first season of DIOW as a "demo" to shop for sponsorships. I currently do not have any revenue, aside from a few small donations. I had 663 dowloads in the month of March. Podcasting is a source of professional development. I also get to fulfill my desire to serve the public by sharing valuable information with the public.
► How does your podcasting process look like?
I use AT-2100 microphones that are run through a Scarlett audio interface integrated with a MacBook Pro operating GarageBand. I often record my narration using a sound isolation booth in order to achieve a broadcast-quality sound. I only interview leading authorites on the subjects that my episodes explore. Very rarely do I have difficulty convincing a guest to be on my show.
Each episode has a story that is outlined prior to production. Soundbites from my guest are selected to create script that is all written in Word prior to being narrated, edited, and mixed. I do my best to avoid Skype interviews and prefer studio recordings. However, I have some of the best sounding Skype interviews. Again, I strive for a broadcast quality sound.
► How do you market your show?
I have social media (facebook, twitter, instagram, Pinterest). I also am a member of multiple podcast support groups on FB and Instagram. I also am a member of academic and professional groups that I announce my show to. Additionally, I have an active MailChimp mailing list.
► What advice would you share with aspiring (new) podcasters?
Get your face up to the microphone! It doesn't matter how good your gear is, if you don't know how to use it. Research about microphone technique. Too many podcasters use the wrong kind of mic or simply don't know how to properly use the mic they have. Don't sit the microphone away from you on a table. Get your face up to it! And, don't forget to use a pop filter.