A Q and A with Podcaster, Thee Bearded Host
At Scott Circle Communications, our team is in contact with members of the media every single day. We’re often trying to pitch interesting segment ideas to television producers or even offering our clients as expert sources to newspaper reporters. Another more niche media outlet that more and more PR professionals are trying to establish relationships with are podcasts.
These days you can find podcasts on any topic you can imagine, from international affairs to animal psychology. Everyone from big media outlets to companies to individuals are trying to get in the podcast game. They are a great way to dive into a very specific topic with a very interested audience.
We’re all avid listeners of podcasts, and have always been curious about the other side of things. I had the chance to chat with my friend and local podcast host Phil aka Thee Bearded Host about his experiences in the field and how he came to create The Real Phil Show, a faith-based urban political talk show.
How did you come up with the idea for your podcast?
The idea for my podcast stemmed from needs that had not been met. When looking at the foundational structures our world is built on, we see that life just doesn’t seem to pan out how we’d like it to for the poor and disenfranchised. Because I have a propensity to fight for those that have been maligned, thus emanated the idea for my podcast, The Real Phil Show, which started back in 2015 and has morphed into an entire network (Humbly Radio).
Does podcasting take up a lot of time?
Podcasting can be a very time consuming effort/project. There is a lot of planning and details that go into the process. In addition, you must give room for equipment setup, guest arrivals, unexpected issues, etc.
Is it costly to start a podcast? Can you earn money doing it?
Firstly, the cost of beginning a podcast depends on you. The podcaster may choose to go “all out” by purchasing backdrops, microphones and camera, paid advertising (social media sponsorships and flyers), etc. On the other hand, the podcast experience can be quite simple and inexpensive. All you truly need is a camera (smartphone) and a microphone (which usually already comes with your smartphone). If you’d like studio quality equipment, you may pay handsomely. Secondly, earning money from podcasting is a possibility. It depends on a lot of factors, which we can discuss at a later time.
How do you acquire talent for your podcast?
Most people want their voice to be heard. They also enjoy the “limelight," although in many instances they do not understand nor do they acknowledge the serious implications this implies. It is rather simple finding talent/guests for a podcast. Focus on a topic, understand it, draw your own opinion and chart the path you’d like to take the podcast, and lastly find someone that is passionate about the topic that can bring another perspective no matter how different or controversial it may be.
What difficulties have you faced in starting and maintaining your podcast?
I’ve never experienced any difficulties per se. It is possible to run into financial difficulties, but it’s very unlikely. Before the days of podcasting, if you wanted to speak about something, you’d have to blog about it, post on Facebook or buy radio time. Podcasting is the culmination of all three; and it can be completely free if you so choose.
How have the majority of your listeners found you? For example, has it been through word of mouth recommendations, or do you market your podcast?
Many of my listeners are acquaintances, learn of me by word of mouth or stem from an aggressive marketing campaign (methods vary here).
What would be your top piece of advice for any individual/organization thinking about starting a podcast?
My top piece of advice for an individual/organization looking to enter the world of podcasting would be: HIRE ME TO CONSULT and possibly help to build the framework for your podcast. It’s a great space to get into once you’ve found your niche.
Thee Bearded Host is a perfect example of how podcasting allows an everyday person to shed light on the issues that are most important to them. It doesn’t require a huge amount of money or time; just an opinion and the passion to share it with an audience. You can follow Phil on Twitter and Instagram @TheeBeardedHost