We dive into the journey of launching our show, highlighting the ups and downs, the learning curves, and the unexpected successes. Join us as we reflect on our experiences, share insights, and celebrate growth in the world of podcasting. 1. **The Beginning of Our Podcasting Journey** The journey began in July when Bernie Leahy, Brian Konrad, along with Lynnette Schneider and her husband Bob, gathered to brainstorm the idea of starting a podcast. With no experience in the podcasting realm, they approached the venture with curiosity and excitement. It was a time of uncertainty, but the desire to connect and share stories drove them forward. Brian humorously recalls, "I knew it was like a radio thing that they recorded, but it wasn't in my universe until we went to Calgary and learned a whole lot about podcasts." 2. **Learning and Growing Together** The team attended a podcast summit where they discovered they weren't alone in their confusion. Many new podcasters started similarly, and they found inspiration in the stories shared by others. Lynnette highlighted the importance of collaboration, stating, "We stumbled our way to where we are today... and where we are today is pretty darn good." 3. **Expanding Our Reach** The podcast quickly diversified its platforms, branching out to social media like TikTok and Instagram. The results were astonishing: a growth rate of 143% in just a few months and 395,798 views across their Meta platforms (Facebook and Instagram). The team learned that followers weren't the only metric for success; views mattered just as much, if not more. One standout moment was the episode featuring Kelli Ireland from the local fire department, which went viral, reaching over 156,000 views. This episode not only entertained but also educated the audience on safety, proving the podcast's potential impact. 4. **Understanding the Podcasting Metrics** The technical side of podcasting can be daunting, but with tools like Buzzsprout, the team navigated their way successfully. They reported over 3,500 downloads, with a significant percentage from Apple devices. This data revealed their podcast's reach, extending beyond North America to places like Asia and Europe. Brian shared, "We've had 117 downloads to Asia, which is amazing!" 5. **Community and Connection** The podcast became a community-driven project, with each team member contributing their strengths. Ina, Bernie's wife, expressed her joy in seeing her husband thrive in this new hobby. "It's been fantastic... bringing you guys on has just been amazing," she said, emphasizing the collaborative spirit that has propelled their success. Conclusion: The podcasting journey has been one of exploration and growth, filled with learning opportunities and unexpected connections. From humble beginnings to impressive metrics, the team has proven that with passion and collaboration, success is achievable. Key takeaways include the importance of community, the value of learning from others, and the power of storytelling in connecting with audiences. 00:00 Welcome to the Porch: Introduction of Guests 02:04 The Journey Begins: From Concept to Podcast 04:36 Growth and Engagement: Social Media Success 07:39 Podcasting Insights: Tools and Strategies 09:58 Community Connections: Engaging with Guests 13:35 Authenticity in Storytelling: The Power of Real Conversations 16:21 Future Aspirations: Wellness and Community Focus 19:02 Sponsorship and Support: Building a Sustainable Model 23:42 Looking Ahead: Goals for 2026 Support the show
