The Ups and Downs, Joys and Struggles in a Podcast Production Business

Ever wonder what a podcast editor's life looks like? Patrick spills the beans on how he swapped lesson plans for audio timelines.Episode Notes: https://podcasteditorsmastermind.com/episode/patrick-keller-made-the-leap-from-education-to-podcast-editing Follow the Podcast Editors MastermindRate and Review the Podcast Editors MastermindLeave text or voice feedbackHey there! Thanks for stopping by!We're here with a fresh story from the editing trenches. We're shining the spotlight on Patrick Keller, a retired music teacher who’s now orchestrating the world of podcast editing. Imagine going from teaching vocals and piano to slicing and dicing audio waves – that’s Patrick for you!He started his new career by working on a lot of podcast episodes that still needed editing. He quickly learned a lot, trying out different things like organizing guests and doing live shows. But here's the catch - Patrick mostly taught himself how to edit, relying a lot on plugins that, to be honest, sometimes don't work well.With tools like RXConnect and Reaper, he now faces the challenges of audio editing without the instant feedback provided by old plugins. And talking about feedback, you won't believe where some of his adjustments originate from - a car test! Stick with us as we dive deeper with Patrick, exploring everything from audio mishaps to eerie paranormal podcasting. Whether you are an experienced editor or simply curious, there is some valuable advice for you here. Alright, let’s get rolling!Key Discussion PointsHow the switch to podcast editing was a breath of fresh airHow Patrick is streamlining his workflowsThe value of structure and processesThe need for speed!Links And ResourcesPodcast Editors Mastermind Group - If you haven't already, connect with us here!The Big Séance Podcast - This is Patricks show.DaVinci Resolve + iZotope RX Integration - Alejandro shared this in the livestream chat.How to use RX Connect in Adobe Audition - This is a great way for Adobe Audition users to get the most out of iZotope RX.These tools and websites are essential for our podcast editing. They not only provide the necessary resources but also connect us with the industry's latest updates and communities. Join Us Live!We stream live to our Facebook page and to YouTube every other week. Our EditorThis episode of the Podcast Editors Mastermind was edited by Alejandro Ramirez. You can find him on LinkedIn if you're interested in talking with him about editing your show.Be a GuestIf you're a podcast editor, we'd love to see if you'd be a fit for a future episode. Fill out this form to let us know you're interested, and we'll contact you to see if it's a good fit. Your Yetis...

Darrell shares his journey in podcasting, building a team, managing cash flow, and valuing human touch in AI's rise.Episode Notes: https://podcasteditorsmastermind.com/episode/pem090-darrell-darnell Follow the Podcast Editors MastermindRate and Review the Podcast Editors MastermindLeave text or voice feedbackEver thought about how to create a great podcast editing team or expand from being a one-person operation to a full editing service? Buckle up because today, we're diving into team building with our special guest Darrell Darnell from Pro Podcast Solutions. In a galaxy very near to us, Darrell started his editing journey on Star Wars Day (May the Fourth be with you…) as a solo editor, but he always planned to build a team. He knew that he wanted to focus on what he did best and, unlike Lord Vader, provide the support and guidance to allow his team to serve their clients well.As you might imagine, Darrell has picked up a few things over the past 11 years. Stick around as we dig into the ins and outs of working with contractors across the cosmos, hiring practices that allow him to choose his Jedi Knights well, and navigating the treacherous waters of Imperial laws and tax advisors.You're sure to be scribbling notes faster than R2-D2 can project a hologram. Are you powered up, locked in, and ready to go?It's time to start the show!Listen to DiscoverHow Pro Podcast Solutions got startedDarrell's insights into finding and vetting potential team membersWhether skill and talent are more important than attitude and perspectiveHandling tricky situations like potential team poachingThe power of direct lines of communicationThe importance of feedback loops and quality controlHow Darrell's financial structure enables what he does (and what he might change if he could start over)Links And ResourcesSlack - Darrell and his team use Slack for team communications.Basecamp - This is the project management software that Darrell and his team use.Adobe Audition - This is the editing software that Darrel and his team use (exclusively).Darrell Darnell (@Mardarrell) / X - You can connect with Darrell on X (formerly Twitter).The Big Leap - This is the book that Darrell mentioned.Pro Podcast Solutions Podcast Editing and Consulting - This is Darrel's company.Now, before you go on a digital shopping spree, remember, it’s not just about the tools; it’s how you wield them that counts. Happy editing!About Darrell DarnellDarrell Darnell is the founder of Pro Podcast Solutions. He plunged into the world of podcast editing in 2013 and hasn't looked back. He and his business have come a long way from those solo-editor days nearly eleven years ago to managing over 150 clients today. As you can imagine, he has a lot to share about how he built his team.Connect with DarrellProPodcastSolutions.com@mardarrell on XJoin Us Live!We stream live to our <a...

Hey there, fellow audio wizards! Get ready to have your mind filled with golden nuggets of podcast editing wisdom in this latest chat we stitched together for you.Jennifer and Bryan have been in the trenches, debating if the magic of our editing hands needs a showcase or if word-of-mouth does the trick. Spoiler alert: we don't exactly hear ear-to-ear on this (see what we did there?). While Bryan is all for flaunting your audio flair, Jennifer’s got a point — some clients care more about the whisper of a solid testimonial than a flashy edited collage.We’ll dive deep into the world of demo reels, those pesky legal bits to think about before using your work as samples, and that headache-inducing task of updating your website. We might even shed light on why you should swap that "Hire me!" page for Jesse McCune's suggestion for something different.So buckle up, pour a fresh cup of joe, and let's chop it up, editor to editor. And as always, we've got some laughs in store because, let's be honest, life's too short for dull conversations. Let's hit play on this treasure trove of insights!Episode Notes: https://podcasteditorsmastermind.com/episode/pem089-portfolios Listen to DiscoverThe challenges an audio-first medium faces when creating a portfolio.Why we need to be super choosy about what we put into our portfolios.One creative way to showcase your work WITHOUT highlighting client mistakes.A potential SEO strategy you might be able to use.What Steve Stewart says might be more valuable than a portfolio.How we incorporated a bit of AI into creating this episode. :)Links And ResourcesPodchaser - Bryan Entzminger - Bryan shared how the link to Podchaser includes EVERYTHING you're credited with. Not just your editing work.Podchaser - Steve Stewart - Steve Stewart shared the link to his Podchaser credits. This is one way to give people a taste of the work you've done.EXAMPLES | protechmusic.com - These are the audio examples that Tim shared. We discussed them in the episode.Podcast Editors Mastermind Group - Our recent Facebook discussion about portfolios.And while we waxed poetic about demos, portfolios, platforms, and the cheeky antique key conundrum (got any ideas on that?), we didn't dive into a long list of tools this time. We focused more on the "how" and "why" behind showcasing your mad editing skills.If you're hyperventilating because you expected some software name-dropping, don't fret! A previous brain-picking might have just what you need – check out our episodes archive or our Facebook group for those nitty-gritty details.Keep those ears sharp and your sense of humor sharper, and remember to only share the work you have rights to. Legal oopsies are no joke! Happy editing, and let's continue making podcasts sound like a million bucks.Join Us Live!We stream live to our Facebook page and to YouTube every other week. Follow the Show!Choose your favorite app! Our EditorThis episode of the Podcast...

Hello and welcome, fellow editors and audio enthusiasts. Today on Podcast Editors Mastermind, we have a crucial conversation lined up, one that veers into the often overlooked territory of the podcast editing business—beyond just the financials, we delve deep into the mindset essential for success.Together, we will shed light on the vital practice of setting boundaries with clients, not just to preserve sanity, but to establish a sustainable business model. It's about knowing when to raise those rates or, if necessary, part ways with clients that may not align with our business goals or values.We'll explore the challenges of scaling our services, striking a balance between growing our business and maintaining the quality our clients have come to expect. Heather will also share her expertise on classifying workers correctly, navigating payroll, and the importance of suitable bookkeeping practices.Be prepared for an enriching session that will arm you with the insights needed to take actionable steps toward solidifying the foundation of your editing business. You might find the ideas discussed today to be just as crucial as the latest editing software or mixing technique.So let's embark on this journey of professional growth together. Prepare to be informed, inspired, and ready to take your podcast editing business to greater heights.Listen to DiscoverNavigating Client RelationshipsContracts and Setting BoundariesPricing StrategiesFinancial Management and GrowthThe Legalities of Contract WorkImproving Operations and Client FitValuable Life Advice SharingExpert Perspectives and RecommendationsLinks And ResourcesHere is the Gusto affiliate link where you will receive $100 Visa Gift Card if you sign up for payroll using this link: https://gusto.com/r/heather5388https://getradicalprofitgrowthaccelerator.com/scope-creepWaveapps.com: https://www.waveapps.comQuickBooks: https://quickbooks.intuit.comNotion: https://www.notion.soAirtable: https://www.airtable.comRescueTime: https://www.rescuetime.comToggl: https://toggl.comGordon Firemark: https://firemark.comBe part of the live experienceAbout Heather ZeitzwolfeHeather Zeitzwolfe is a seasoned professional with a sharp grasp on the complexities of scope creep in service industries, particularly where creative work is involved. With extensive experience dealing with varying business dynamics, she recognizes the challenges caused by work that expands beyond initial projections—whether due to employees exceeding the brief to impress, clients requesting unrecompensed extras, or communication failures.https://www.linkedin.com/in/heatherzeitzwolfehttps://www.facebook.com/GetRadBizhttps://getradicalprofitgrowthaccelerator.com/https://getradicalwithyourbusiness.buzzsprout.com/EditorThis episode of the Podcast Editors Mastermind was edited by Alejandro Ramirez. You can find him on Facebook if you're interested in talking with him...

Join us today as we explore the world of podcasting with the renowned Daniel J. Lewis. We’re all about breaking down the mystique of Podcasting 2.0 – because embracing new tech isn't just for the gearheads; it's for us Yetis who like to stay ahead of the curve.Apple's given the nod to the transcript tag and we're here to unwrap why that's more than just a back-pat for accessibility. Think transcripts are just for readability? Think again! There's a universe of uses here, from better understanding to snazzy in-app excerpts.So, ready your headphones, we're about to cruise through the latest in hosts and features – some good, some sleep-inducing. Keep those apps updated, those tags compliant, and your humor on point - let's roll!Listen to DiscoverWhy the trusty old RSS feed is actually more poised to support innovation than some closed platform.How staying on top of Podcasting 2.0 features can help you serve your clients better.Why one Podcasting 2.0 feature can absolutely transform how audiences and podcasters engage. Because we've never heard a client complain that they wish they could get less engagement.Which hosting providers are helping push the envelope.Ways that your clients might be able to get Podcasting 2.0 features, even if their media hosts don't support them.Where to find apps that support these new features.One thing you REALLY need to be careful about when implementing new Podcasting 2.0 features.Links And ResourcesPodgagement - Tools to help you your audience and grow your podcast!Podcast Mirror by Blubrry - This is your fix for turning a regular old podcast feed into a superhero podcasting 2.0 feed for an extra $60/year.Buzzsprout - Daniel's picks for those who want to keep things simple and slick without a WordPress focus: Captivate.fm - Daniel's picks for those who want a really good implementation of Podcasting 2.0 features and don't need a WordPress-focused workflow.Blubrry Podcast Hosting - A solid recommendation by Daniel if you're weaving that WordPress magic into your workflow.Libsyn Podcasting - Where you can manually insert those shiny new RSS tags if you're willing to get your hands a bit code-y.Podcasting 2.0 - Making podcasts better for everyone! - Your go-to spot to dive deeper into everything podcasting 2.0.Remember, while these links and tools can feel like a boatload, don't get overwhelmed. All these fancy new features are cool and all, but they aren't everywhere yet. We've got to keep our ear to the ground and see where the digital waves take us. Continue polishing your editing skills and stay updated with Podcast Editors Mastermind for more content. We are here to support you not only in the editing booth but also in other areas.About Daniel J. LewisDaniel is a Hall of Fame podcaster with more than a decade of experience podcasting and supporting podcasters. He makes podcasting better for everyone with his show, The Audacity to Podcast, and his work to improve the technical foundation of podcasting. He is very enthusiastic about the benefits that the Podcasting 2.0 initiative can provide to podcasters, while still maintaining its open source nature.Connect with Danieltheaudacitytopodcast.compodcasting2.orgJoin Us Live!We stream live to our <a...

Hey there, podcast aficionado! Strap in, because today we're serving up a heavy dose of reality about the business and mindset of podcast editing.Imagine this: Bryan (one of your faithful Yetis) is in the thick of it - searching for quality-over-quantity clients, and we're joined by Jesse, Tara, and Amanda to help him (and you) cut through the noise. Expect unfiltered advice on pricing, embracing AI without losing our human touch, and finding that sweet spot between making bank and keeping the passion alive.We'll dissect whether to fly solo or assemble a podcast editing army, tackle the tightrope walk between love for the craft and keeping the fridge stocked, and dish out strategies for staying sane in the editing game.So perk up those ears, it's about to get real. We’re diving headfirst into the audio jungle, and trust me, you won’t want to miss a beat. Let's kick this off!Listen to DiscoverThat even people who have been editing for a while face challengesThe key to finding the clients that are right for youHow understanding your idea client can help you be more focused in what you doWhy finding the intersection of your fulfillment and your client's needs is the key to unlocking growth, satisfaction, and successHow pricing is so much more than just a math exerciseLinks And ResourcesPodcast Editors Mastermind Episode 78 - Jesse was a Guest, "A Day in the Life: Podcast Editing 2030"Podcast Editors Mastermind Episode 83 - Jesse McCune is Creating a Supportive Community for Aspiring Podcast EditorsTwenty Thousand Hertz - A podcast renowned for its stellar sound design, which Bryan admires.HoneyBook - This is Jesse's and Tara's pick for streamlining client onboarding, file uploading, and calendar syncing. Aardvark Girl - You can find Amanda here.Tansy Aster Audio - You can find Jesse here.Tansy Aster Creative - This is where you can find Tara.Tansy Aster Academy - The community that our guests, Jesse, Tara, and Amanda run for podcast editors and managers.Podnews Daily - One of Bryan's go-to listens in the realm of podcasting news and trends.Podcasting 2.0 - A podcast Bryan enjoys for its quality content about what's going on in Podcasting 2.0.Top Tier Audio - We talked about Bryan's website during the episode.Keep in mind, we aren't responsible if any of these links lead to internet black holes where you'll find yourself binge-reading articles instead of getting work done. But I digress. Go forth and prosper with these tidbits of wisdom!About Our GuestsJesse McCune, Tara Kelly, and Amanda McCune run Tansy Aster Academy, a community for podcast editors and managers. Through courses, coaching, and resources, they help podcast production professionals start, grow, and run their businesses.Connect with Jesse, Tara, and AmandaTansy Aster AcademyJoin Us Live!We stream live to our Facebook page and to <a...

Running a podcast production business isn't always easy. It's not always fun. But sometimes it is and if we're intentional, we can continue to grow as individuals regardless of the circumstances. Listen in as Bryan Entzminger, Jennifer Longworth, and Daniel Abendroth share candid insights into their professional and personal lives. While this might seem self-indulgent, the conversation is packed with raw and relatable conversations that touch on challenges in Daniel's relcation plans, Bryan's business model struggle, and some interesting things Jennifer has run into with clients in the past year.Join us as we take a peek behind the scenes, share personal anecdotes, and discuss the future of the Podcast Editors Mastermind. Whether you're a seasoned editor or a podcast enthusiast, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the realities of the industry.Listen to DiscoverWhy Daniel hasn't been on the show very much for the past few months (and why that's changing now)One insightful way that Andrea is tracking her business growth this year - and why she's doing this wayHow changing life circumstances (and a new recording location) can create new possibilitiesHow Daniel is able to collaborate with one of his clients (and why he might not be charging enough for this service)Why Bryan's business declined in 2023, and how his current situation creates tension in building it back upLinks And ResourcesPreSonus Eris E4.5-2-Way 4.5" Near Field Studio Monitor - The studio monitors that Daniel recently picked up.Descript | All-in-one video & podcast editing, easy as a doc. - Daniel is using Descript to collaborate with a client.Reaper for Podcasting - Daniel is planning to get back to creating tutorials and resources for those using Reaper for podcasting.Top Tier Audio - YouTube - This is where Bryan has published Hindenburg tutorials, though he hasn't published anything new in a year or so.Hindenburg - This is still the software Bryan uses most.Tansy Aster Academy | Courses, Coaching, & Community for Podcast Editors & Managers - At one point Bryan referenced Jesse McCune. You can find his online community here.Audio-Technica ATH-M50xSTS-USB StreamSet Headset ATH-M50XSTS-USB - The headset that Daniel gives better quality than many headset mics, though he still recommends a proper microphone setup if possible.Parrot Pro Teleprompter Kit – Padcaster - This is the teleprompter that Bryan was talking about. It requires a mobile phone to function as the screen, but works well with his webcam.Rode RCP2 RODECaster Pro II Integrated Audio Production Studio RCP2 - Bryan had a problem with the power switch on his Rodecaster Pro 2, so he now has a new one courtesy of Rode's Support team. Sadly, he had to send the old one back to get the new one :(Blackmagic Design DaVinci Resolve Speed Editor - Bryan mentioned this as a new gear purchase. At the time of this writing, it comes with a license for Davinci Resolve Studio.Thinkmap Visual Thesaurus - An online thesaurus and...

In the world of podcasting, Tom Kelly's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and passion. Little did he know, his path would take him to an unexpected encounter that would change everything. Tom's story is about his determination and hard work. He began by listening to podcasts in a wood shop and later worked on installing solar panels for Tesla. Eventually, he started his own editing business.But what was the unexpected encounter that propelled him towards success? You'll just have to listen to discover the surprising turn of events that transformed Tom's podcast editing journey forever.Listen to DiscoverHow Tom's path to where he is now was anything but straightHow a conference led to Tom's first paid gig (and why it might be a little non-traditional)What kept Tom going when it was toughOne thing that could really help YOU land clients (and a free resource we have for you if you want it...)How Tom's priorities have shifted in recent yearsI realized I wanted to get into [podcasting], and it wasn't even podcast production at the time. I wanted to run a network. That was my first interest in podcasting. - Tom KellyMaster the podcast editing journeyTom's experiences in the podcast editing business offer valuable lessons for those aiming to carve their own path in this field. Thes include things like persistence, learning from failures, and gaining practical experience with different types of audio recordings are integral to mastering the craft.Build a compelling portfolioCreating your own content is an effective way to showcase your podcast editing skills. This approach gives you complete control over the audio quality and content. It helps you demonstrate your skills more effectively, especially when the client's initial audio is of poor quality.Tap into a supportive networkTom’s rise in the podcast editing industry underscores the importance of networking and community involvement. Attending industry events and building genuine relationships can open doors to collaboration opportunities and client referrals. Additionally, using social platforms like YouTube to share knowledge and experiences can help expand your influence, build credibility, and attract potential clients.Links And ResourcesHow to Win Friends & Influence People (Dale Carnegie Books) - Tom mentioned this book as a resource.Mixergy - Learn from Proven Entrepreneurs - Tom mentioned Mixergy as a resource.Fiverr - Tom got his first gig here. It wasn't the best experience, but it was his experience.What is the Fletcher Munson Curve? - Tom explained what the Fletcher Muson Curve is. This article has an image like what he described.Practice EpisodeiZotope RX10 - Audio restoration software.Podcast Editors Club - Where Tom started connecting with other editors and gathered additional tools and skills.Podcast Movement - The first podcast conference that Tom went to.Podcast Editor Academy - The Podcast Editor Academy is a paid community that includes access to training, resources, and even job postings.Tansy Aster Academy - Jesse's community for podcast editors and managers. You should definitely...

In a world where Jesse McCune's career in facility maintenance seemed light years away from his true passion, an unexpected twist brought him closer than ever to his dream. Little did he know that a conversation with his wife would ignite a fire within him, leading him down a path he never anticipated. With a burning desire to combine his audio expertise with a viable business opportunity, Jesse embarked on a journey that would reveal the untapped potential of the podcasting world. But as he delved deeper, he uncovered a gap in resources that left him craving more. Little did he know, this was just the beginning of a remarkable adventure filled with self-discovery and triumph.Listen to DiscoverStrategies to overcome the challenges of meeting client expectations and learn how to effectively communicate your editing process.The importance of clear and open communication in podcast editing for stronger client relationships and better outcomes.One key thing that we bring to the table as podcast editors that AI can't replicate.Learning how to listen to people, to truly understand their nuances and capture their voices, is key in podcast editing. Our brains are powerful at picking up subtle details, so it's important to pay attention to those small breaths and pauses that make a dialogue authentic. - Jesse McCuneThe episode underscores the critical significance of effective communication while dealing with clients. Jesse's experiences with his clients demonstrate the need for transparent, open discussions, especially when it comes to explaining technicalities like audio quality. This could help mitigate issues arising from unrealistic expectations and solidify a healthy editor-client relationship.About Jesse McCuneJesse McCune is a podcast editor with a passion for music production and audio engineering. Jesse developed an interest in audio and taught himself music production and audio engineering. This (with some prompting from his wife) led him to discover podcast editing.Jesse created Tansy Aster Academy because he couldn't find enough helpful resources for podcast editors. The Academy is a community where editors can get guidance and support from each other. Through Tansy Aster Academy, Jesse's team offers an interactive learning experience for editors looking to level up their skills in podcast production as well as business.Connect with JesseTansy Aster AcademyTansy Aster AudioJesse's YouTube ChannelLinks And Resourcesdbx 286s Channel Strip with De-esser - The dbx 286 is a great piece of hardware, but is often completely unnecessary in modern podcast production workflows.Vocaster One | Focusrite - In many cases, Jesse recommends the Focusrite Vocaster line instead of the Scarlett 2i2 because it's built specifically for the needs of podcasters and content creators.Scarlett 2i2 | Focusrite - The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 has been reported as the best-selling audio interface.SM7B - Shure USA - Arguably, this is a microphone that many podcasters and content creators aspire to use. However, it's not always the best microphone in every situation.ETHOS - Earthworks Audio - This is the...

Virginia Elder's journey into the world of podcast editing and management began unexpectedly at a sales tax audit firm. She didn't realize that her real passion was podcasting while she was working with spreadsheets and invoices... until she did.With each inspiring episode, her love for the medium grew, pushing her to launch her own show, Reaching Abundance. But then, a twist of fate led her to make a daring leap from personal finance coach to podcast editor and manager. Curious to know how she conquered this uncharted territory? Stay tuned for a tale of determination, growth, and limitless possibilities.You WillDiscover effective strategies to grow your podcast editing business and increase your success.Learn about the importance of networking and making connections in the podcasting industry, and how it can propel your business forward.Gain insights on how to effectively manage a podcast production team to ensure smooth operations and high-quality output.Explore strategies for achieving financial sustainability in podcast production and making your business thrive.Stay up-to-date on the latest gadgets and tools for podcast editors, enhancing your efficiency and delivering top-notch results.In this episode of the Podcast Editors Mastermind, you'll hear from Virginia Elder, a former accountant who now owns her own podcast production business. Listen as she shares her insights on building relationships and networking to grow a podcast editing business. Virginia emphasizes the value of personal connections and the power of in-person networking compared to online marketing. She highlights the value of in-person connections to build relationships and grow your business. Virginia also discusses the importance of follow-up and shares her system for tracking contacts and initiating conversations. She offers strategies for getting involved at conferences and highlights the benefits of attending events outside the podcasting industry. With Virginia's experience and advice, you'll gain valuable tips on networking, building connections, and growing your podcast editing business.Links And ResourcesHow to Grow Your Small Business: A 6-Step Plan to Help Your Business Take Off - Virginia recommended this book by Donald Miller.Free Sales Pipeline Template for Account Tracking - This is a free sales pipeline template for Asana.Reaching Abundance - Listen to the Reaching Abundance podcast hosted by Virginia Elder to gain insights and inspiration on personal finance.Upwork | The World’s Work Marketplace - Sign up for Upwork, a freelance platform, to find potential clients and offer podcast editing services.FinCon - Attend FinCon, a conference for financial professionals and podcasters, to network and build relationships in the industry.Asana - Asana is the tool that Virginia's team uses for project management and also as a Customer Relationship Manager (CRM).About Virginia ElderVirginia Elder is an experienced podcast manager and editor with a lot of knowledge and expertise in the podcasting industry. She is experienced in project management and client services and she knows how to connect with her ideal clients and deliver great results.She started editing podcasts while working in accounting. She listened to podcasts all day and became passionate about the medium. This sparked her passion for personal development and led her to start her own podcast, Reaching Abundance. Since then, Virginia has transitioned into podcast management, owning her own successful podcast management...