Ever wondered what it takes to transform your captivating discussions about video games, movies, TV shows, and books into an engaging podcast? Join me, Patrick, and my partner in conversation, Sam, as we journey through the creation of the “Balrogs & Blasters” podcast. Our aim was to share our love for these subjects with a broader audience and venture beyond our comfort zones. Let’s dive into our story and explore how we turned our passion into a captivating podcast experience.
The inception of “Balrogs & Blasters” was driven by a simple desire: to take our animated conversations about video games, movies, TV shows, and books and present them to the world. Our podcasting journey was not only about sharing insights but also about challenging ourselves to explore new realms through the medium of podcasting. This initiative led us to create a podcast that mirrors our dynamic discussions.
With our extensive familiarity and comfort within these topics, Sam and I decided to take the plunge into podcasting. We adopted a resourceful approach, demonstrating that a hefty budget isn’t a prerequisite for podcasting success. Our recording setup is versatile, utilizing OBS for remote recording on Windows, allowing us to incorporate video footage. For in-person recording, we rely on Ferrite on iOS. Post-recording, Audacity comes into play for editing, while tools like Levelator ensure consistent audio levels.
At the core of “Balrogs & Blasters” lies authenticity, stemming from our pre-existing friendship. Our conversations on the podcast mirror the engaging exchanges we’ve had since before our podcasting journey began. This authenticity resonates with our listeners, creating a relatable and enjoyable experience.
Our episode planning involves a structured process. We maintain a shared Google Doc where we collect news items and topics to discuss, ensuring that our content remains fresh and relevant. Our post-recording discussions further shape our podcast, allowing us to include engaging end-of-podcast segments. For instance, our decision to watch and review Uwe Boll movies like “Bloodrayne” and “In the Name of the King” adds a unique layer to our content.
Reflecting on our experiences, I’d like to share a valuable piece of advice for aspiring podcasters: always keep multiple copies of your audio. This simple precaution can save you from potential technical hiccups and ensure the smooth continuity of your podcasting journey.
The name “Balrogs & Blasters” emerged spontaneously during a casual pub discussion, capturing the essence of our content—a fusion of fantasy and entertainment. When it came to crafting our logos, Sam and I turned to Fiverr, a platform that enabled us to create visually appealing branding without the need for extensive design skills.
As we navigate the initial stages of podcast promotion, our approach remains consistent. We utilize our social media channels to announce new episodes and provide updates throughout the week. This strategy builds anticipation among our audience and encourages engagement.
Engaging with our audience remains an ongoing exploration. We continually fine-tune our methods to foster meaningful interactions and connections with our listeners.
Our journey from spirited discussions to a fully-fledged podcast underscores the significance of passion, creativity, and commitment in the podcasting realm. If you’re considering embarking on a podcasting adventure, let our story serve as inspiration. Sharing your passions through podcasting can forge connections, invite captivating conversations, and open doors to exciting new horizons.