A conversation with the Amateur Traveler Podcast, a web-based travel show that helps travelers find the best places to travel. It includes both a weekly audio podcast and a twice monthly video podcast. It also includes blog posts featuring travel news and resources.
Todd and Chris talk about:
Who listens to travel podcasts?
- travel agents, people who love travel use the podcast to become destination experts
- regular travelers, many listening while they are on the road
- “Not sure who they are when they start, but they end up being travel experts.”
What makes a good travel story?
- entertainment
- education / enlightenment
- “All the best stories are travel stories.”
- Things a traveler would want to know about travel to your region.
How to find exotic travel experiences in your community: What is entertaining and interesting in your community – like throwing rocks at one another in a courtship ritual?
Learn to ask good questions:
- What do you take your friends to see and do when they visit?
- What would surprise a visitor from away?
- What do we eat here that is different from what they eat?
- What are you really proud of?
- “What is Poutine?”
How are podcasts produced?
- some people are good storytellers; editing can enhance some podcasts and others may not be of good enough quality to use
- Tools of the Trade: Macbook laptop, Garageband, Skype, Call Recorder (Hot Recorder for PC), Plantronics Headset
- versions of the show produced for iTunes with photos and hyperlinks, as well as simple mp3
- production time: 6-8 hours/week.
Feedback from listeners on their favourite episodes:
- “I’ve never thought of going there, but now I’m intrigued”
- “I’ve been there, and I’m reliving being there by listening to this episode” – Fans want your multimedia stories!
How to Pitch Chris a story?
- host@amateurtraveler.com
- pitch your destination, not a company – there are good reasons why. Listeners are inspired by your stories, not your business card.
