A conversation with Chris Christensen (@chris2x), producer of 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.