My Experience Running A Video Podcasting Studio | Year One | Building a Podcast Business

Hey everyone! Finally got around to doing a part 3 to the series and figured what better time to do it than after our first year! Sit back and enjoy me ramble for 23 minutes about my experience over this past year of running Chicago Podcast Studio.
If you haven't seen the other two videos in the series, I encourage you to go watch those also:
Part 1: • How I Built My Video P...
Part 2: • How Much My Video Podc...
Looking for help building YOUR podcast studio?
www.chicagopodcast.studio/build
I'll be covering:
Intro 0:00
Basic Stats and Income 0:27
Expectations vs Reality 0:49
Future Plans and Goals 1:30
New Set Design Plans 3:37
Consulting: Builds & Coaching 6:10
New Gear 8:22
New Software Improvements 11:58
Misc. Gear and New Hire 13:34
Advice for Others, Starting My Own Podcast 15:10
Q&A 16:12
Outro and Thank You 22:38
Affiliate links for gear:
Video Gear:
Shot on Sony FX3: amzn.to/3G89hjK
With the Tamron 28-70 2.8: amzn.to/3Id2Luu
Sony A7iii Main Cam: amzn.to/3X2mYZ8
Sony A6000: amzn.to/3EzhhKT
Sony A6300: amzn.to/3EwhWwK
Black Magic Atem Mini ISO Video Switcher: amzn.to/3GAeDGr
Samyang 18mm lens: amzn.to/3TD253U
Audio Gear:
Rodecaster Pro: amzn.to/3V033Iw
RodePodMic: amzn.to/3UGFEfh
Blue Compass Boom Arm: amzn.to/3O82N7Q
4 Channel Cloud Lifter CL-4 : amzn.to/3EbLIW1
Mackie MC Series Headphones: amzn.to/3UTmvGA
Lighting:
Govee Floor Lamps: amzn.to/3Q1NRcB
Neewer Softbox: amzn.to/3UX5XgV
Neewer SL-60w Key Light: amzn.to/3hOyveA
Neewer 2 pack Hair Lights: amzn.to/3AjrhFI
Neewer C-Stand: amzn.to/3X3DKqI
Misc:
Curtains: amzn.to/3GjZgBM
XLR Mic Cables: amzn.to/3txYWHO
DISCLAIMERS & AFFILIATIONS
We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

[@romerompadore6963]

I really like how raw and honest you are in your videos! This is what makes great content. You show a full 360 view 💯

[@TheStudioBusiness]

I appreciate that! Thank you ❤

[@leonardboyer7601]

Hi Tom, You were kind enough to help me by explaining where to get those metallic-looking panels and I was able to get them, just like you said. You always have excellent information, and I have learned a lot from you. But there is one video that no KZbin expert has made yet, which to me is very surprising. Although there are a large number of videos on the Rhodecaster Pro 2 and also on the Yolobox Ultra, no one has made any video showing how to put the 2 items together and work with that. I believe it would be an excellent subject for a video and I hope you will consider making it. Thank you.

[@cuSTEMJourneys]

You’re killing it man, keep it up. I started a video podcast a year ago and since then have been getting a lot of request from others to help them with the setup of their podcast. This definitely inspired me to move forward with consulting and creating a studio

[@TheStudioBusiness]

Yea I think we are just getting into where this industry goes a bit mainstream and studios are going to be popping up all over! Good luck with your consulting work, keep me in the loop, would love to hear about it.

[@carlosafortin]

I enjoyed this series very much. This last one came out right on time to help me make decisions about my video podcast project for 2023. Thank you. I wish you a healthy and prosperous New Year.

[@TheStudioBusiness]

Thanks for watching, Carlos! Wishing the same for you in 2023!

[@kentonthompson4325]

*Incredible... I needed this video this morning.*

[@TheStudioBusiness]

Glad it was helpful!

[@JamesyPaulMichael]

KUDOS! 120 + sessions is awesome, man! I love your setup/mindset on providing a quality experience and have taken a huge amount of inspiration from your workflow/arrangements and can't thank you enough for making this accessible to everyone. Keep crushing it; can't wait to see how much it grows by 2024!

[@TheStudioBusiness]

Thanks for all of that, James! I do appreciate it. Glad you've found the series useful for you - Wishing you great success this year also!

[@magicmediaworks212]

Thank you so much for this amazing content. Love your channel!

[@soundmoneyhacks-global]

Thank you for the update and been following your podcast story

[@TheStudioBusiness]

Thanks for watching!

[@Pillar0Mktg0Grp]

Congratulations Tom! You’re the man!

[@TheStudioBusiness]

😎💪

[@vlemma_kokkino2283]

Congrats man! For your fine work, but mostly for sharing knowledge and experience in the most comprehensive way!

[@TheStudioBusiness]

You are welcome! Thanks for watching.

[@turnmaker7685]

Best advice + practical hard won experience I’ve come across -thank-you

[@RamahnJemahl]

I’m currently building out a rentable podcasting studio and like the idea of the consulting piece being added to your business. I’d be interested in hearing more about it. 💪🏾💯‼️

[@TheStudioBusiness]

Thanks for letting me know!

[@bamboozled8026]

That was great thanks. In the process of adding a podcast setup to my photo studio right now.

[@artyskye]

Real nice run through. Thank you 🙌

[@TheStudioBusiness]

No problem 👍

[@devontelewis4063]

Been enjoying your videos thank you for your time

[@TheStudioBusiness]

Thanks for watching!

[@MohammedAhmedYT]

Awesome video and really really helpful content, love it and keep it up

[@TheStudioBusiness]

Thanks, will do!

[@webuiltanempire]

Thanks so much for creating these. PT.1 of this series, was were we took a bulk of our studio inspiration for our new setup. First episode in the new studio space airs, 1/3/23. Thanks again, it was a huge help.

[@TheStudioBusiness]

Awesome! Please send it to me, I'd love to see how it turned out. Thanks for watching ❤

[@webuiltanempire]

@@TheStudioBusiness Again, thank you for so many ideas and breakdowns. Here's the first episode shot in the new studio kzbin.info/www/bejne/l6W9f3mKrt6CZ9E we're still adjusting as we go, but you were a huge help, thank you for creating PT.1 and the others.

[@kazeemawe2168]

Great video again. I was planning something like this but not really sure how to start, I am currently running a live streaming business for events, parties, weddings, funerals etc, i am glad to have found your channel and i must say that you are blessing to me. I already have some equipments will see what else its needed and try to get things rolling. Thank you very much.

[@TheStudioBusiness]

Glad it was helpful! Wishing you success in the new venture!

[@benamar4855]

Amazing insights man! Learned a lot bro and one subscriber more :)

[@aaronjones8682]

Thanks for sharing ... I am looking to build a space in the Atlanta area - the coaching/one on one service you mentioned is a GREAT idea!

[@TheStudioBusiness]

Hit me up in the DM's on insta or my email and I'd be happy to connect!

[@LibertyMadison]

You are really killing it! Definitely going to connect with you on IG!

[@pedalstomper78]

Mine will be open in probably March inside of an art gallery. Excited for it

[@TheStudioBusiness]

Nice! That sounds super cool. Keep us updated!

[@PatThompsonNL]

Enjoyed your video

[@txkps]

Dope video man! Really enjoyed this and part 2. Lot of information! Definitely interested in the one on one coaching if you decide to do it!

[@TheStudioBusiness]

Thanks Anthony! Send me a DM on instagram or my email and I can chat with you. I'm doing some 1on1 coaching for just a few people.

[@frankromano9574]

Definitely need a coaching call option man! Great video, massive help for my current endeavour.

[@TheStudioBusiness]

Frank, I'm doing them! DM me on instagram on either of my pages and we can connect. Thanks for watching and glad it's helped!

[@ivanosipov8186]

I enjoyed all three episodes of this series. You have excellent video and audio quality, and it is a pleasure just to listen and study. One of my dreams is to have such a side project (not a podcast but a studio) so I wish you good luck and would appreciate it if you somehow share unit economics and how it works for you. Thanks!

[@TheStudioBusiness]

Thanks for watching, Ivan! Can you elaborate on what you're asking about?

[@ivanosipov8186]

@@TheStudioBusiness maybe comparison in numbers of spendings (with decomposition) and profits

[@weezlethamisfit7441]

This content has been amazing! Perfectly timed for me to come across, this is a goal of mine in the year to come! Hope to see if you offer those mentoring services!

[@TheStudioBusiness]

Thanks for watching and your interest in possible mentoring. I’m looking forward to helping others with their setup in 2023!

[@KipJackson]

LOVE THE CHAPPELL SHOW MEMES LMAO

[@NowWeEats]

Bro I love this channel! You seem like such a genuinely good person! I have an old content channel called Now We Eats, I started it in 2017. It was supposed to be a restaurant/food review channel. At the time it was hard for me to sustain the channel and make money to survive So I basically gave up... I knew nothing about cameras, recording, advertising, marketing and editing... I had to teach myself everything and it was a really difficult process. People think You just buy a camera and hit record and your video magically ends up on KZbin... But it's so much harder than that.. as a one-man show I found it very challenging... But anyway, I Just wanted to say that your channel is really inspiring! I'm currently trying to reeducate myself so I can get back into the content creation game. A lot has changed since 2017 with the addition of short form content, better equipment and video podcast. I'm currently trying to work out in my head how I can combine a food review channel with the talking head video podcast style and product review. I know that's a lot but I don't want to make 3 separate channels but that's the creation space I would like to be in. I'm also worried that The audience might not understand the combination. On Monday I'm reviewing a restaurant and on Wednesday I'm delivering some type of talking Head podcast and on Friday I'm reviewing food related equipment. Ultimately these are the things I enjoy and get excited about so I know I could continuously think of new ideas to stay relevant. Once I can wrap my head around how to make all of this cohesive I'll purchase the last bit of equipment I need and start recording again! I know knowledge cost money but would you be able to offer any suggestions or ideas? Maybe I'll post this question with the actual account in question and you can take a look at my 6yo cringy content lol

[@TheStudioBusiness]

Hey buddy, thanks for your message. Yes, doing this isn't super easy, but having a background in video does help ;) As for your channel, I understand not wanting to split things up into multiple channels. It's a hard question to answer. Honestly I'm in a similar boat. I'm most likely not always going to want to talk about podcasting and video content, but you shouldn't deviate too far from your channel's main offering (imo). I encourage you to keep going! I do these videos for fun and promotion at this point, I'm not making any real money from it. I wish you much success in 2023, I hope you put out some more videos! Thanks for watching.

[@ChrisPza716]

Not sure if you mentioned this before on a previous video but what are the dimensions of the studio itself? I’m building a studio in our house build and this series has been an inspiration for coming up with some ideas when I’m not in the studio.

[@TheStudioBusiness]

I think I mention it's about 200sqft in the first video. Maybe 12ft by 15ft? The whole studio is around 1,100sqft

[@ChrisPza716]

@@TheStudioBusiness thanks

[@stockpaperchasersbossross4293]

Curious. Are you renting a wharehouse? Office space? Then just sectioning it off? Is it industrial or retail space? And how did you find it. Thanks. Love the new look you did with the upgrades. I’m trying to start a podcast this year. 3 months or less.

[@TheStudioBusiness]

It's more of an office space and then yes, it's just sectioned off. I found it online from a local office space company. Good luck with your podcast! thanks for watching.

[@w3rm4]

Hey do you run the mics into a compressor?

[@entrepreneurtvuk]

id love to know did you contact businesses and ask them if they would be interested in having a podcast done and what did you charge them

[@Aminocatentertainment]

Great stuff! What do you use for your scheduler?

[@TheStudioBusiness]

It's through square. Square appointments I believe it's called.

[@NinoAmerica]

Can you list prices your charged?

[@kiddgroovy]

@5:33 You flashed a backdrop that says need it podcast do you have any idea where that backdrop was created? It looks super awesome.

[@TheStudioBusiness]

I do not. I think I just found that image on google.

[@smallbizdigitalmedia]

Inspiring video 👏 Any reason why I can’t use my existing rode NTG3 shotgun mike just out of frame for a similar one person video podcast rather than the boomed podmics you use?

[@TheStudioBusiness]

Thanks! And naw - you should be fine with whatever microphone!

[@samgillespie]

🤘🏼

[@CornbreadBeats-yh5dk]

really enjoying your content, just acquired building for podcast video rental. would love to chat about consulting packages.

[@TheStudioBusiness]

Congrats! Yes, hit me in the DMs somewhere and I can connect with you! - Tom

[@jeremiahladner4799]

Hey man, love what you are doing here. How much would you charge for a consultation? Would like to pick your brain and see how you can help me do this same thing.

[@TheStudioBusiness]

We connected on Insta!

[@Pardeboy]

Consultation services would be amazing! producing music and also an artist myself I would definitely pay to get help done for specific information on audio and studio entertainment industry

[@TheStudioBusiness]

Reach out to me on Instgram, Tyler, either page. I'd be happy to chat with you!

[@terryspartyshoppe]

Hi good detailed information you give here. I’m interested in renting out part of my event space for podcasters to come and do their content. I’m no engineer and I don’t know about the gear and technical aspect of filming and recording. I would be interested in purchasing a package with the basic equipment needed and a layout plan to create a functional podcast studio to rent out. I just don’t know where to begin and would appreciate some information and directions on how to get this studio started and booked. Thank you and keep the videos coming I’m learning 🥰

[@TheStudioBusiness]

Toni, shoot me a DM on Instagram and I'll get back to you. Running a studio like mine does require some knowhow from the tech side. I'll be happy to walk you through some options.

[@michael_the_wicked]

Surprised you didn't get the Rodecaster Pro 2 instead of the cloud lifter. The RP2 is so much more powerful. It runs 4 SM7B mics effortlessly in my studio.

[@TheStudioBusiness]

I got the cloud lifter at a good deal, but I've had some experience with the RP2 and it has a few features removed that we liked on the original like the additional headphone monitor out in front. I'm sure our next unit will be one tho.

[@saskelee]

Question…. As it relates to the client set up. Do you change the background for each new client so the podcast can be personalized?

[@TheStudioBusiness]

We don't. We can change colors and minor things, but in general, the sets remain the same between guests.

[@saskelee]

thank you. I hope you understand why i ask just if people would concern about similarity. I am looking to do something similar so im checking @@TheStudioBusiness

[@rovonnrussell]

What would you say are some pros or cons of running a mobile video podcast service where we come to you and targeting more companies then individuals? And then I guess rent other studios if need be

[@TheStudioBusiness]

Cons: it takes a lot of time to setup cameras, lighting and mics on the go. to record a 1 hr podcast, it could take another 1-2 hours just to setup and breakdown (not even including travel time). Pros: given the cons, you could charge more. Having something come TO YOU is nice. I've thought about offering this as a service and something we may do this year but I'd need to invest into some more gear and would really want to get things streamlined for setup.

[@Maldini2706]

What is the name of the scheduling plugin/software you integrated into your website? Looks very useful

[@TheStudioBusiness]

It's with Square. Square scheduling I believe.

[@Maldini2706]

@@TheStudioBusiness Thanks!

[@rpstudios_jaxnc]

I would be very interested in a consultation with you. I have a photography studio in NC and there's a small room I'd like to turn into a podcast room. 😊

[@jKHAHN215PA]

How are you embedding your ISRC onto your mp4??

[@TheStudioBusiness]

I'm not sure! I think the Black Magic Atem is responsible for all of that.

[@kiomyarce265]

Hi, how many square feet is the space you are leasing?

[@TheStudioBusiness]

whole space is about 1100 sqft

[@RamahnJemahl]

Hey! How do you deliver the podcasts to your clients? I'm sure they are some large files. :/ :)

[@TheStudioBusiness]

Yes, they are. We upload things to our dropbox account and share that way.

[@RamahnJemahl]

@@TheStudioBusiness awesome, thanks!

[@saskelee]

How do you charge for the rental

[@TheStudioBusiness]

Hourly and we also do package deals!

[@RamahnJemahl]

What is the scheduling platform you are using?

[@TheStudioBusiness]

it's with Square. I believe it's just called Square scheduling.

[@RamahnJemahl]

@@TheStudioBusiness awesome, thanks!

[@No_bs_Boxing]

How much total space do you have?

[@TheStudioBusiness]

The whole studio is about 1100sqft

[@azzmanagram]

Hey. I am starting my own podcast studio in the new year and busy learning and buying gear now. I am totally inspired by your approach man. I am emulating many of your approaches. I'd love to have a call to pick your brains. Amazing stuff man. Al in the UK❤

[@TheStudioBusiness]

I'm so glad to hear, Al! Feel free to email us on our website and I'll try and connect with you!

[@riskystudioslansing]

We are Risky Studios located in East Lansing Mi, we are an audio/video podcasting and music recording space. We also have space for photographers to rent. We just hit our 1yr mark of being open and we have just acquired a new larger suite with separate rooms dedicated to each of the things we do. We would love to connect for coaching. We have, like you been asked to consult a build in a traditional co-working office for tech startups, we have also partnered with them to run that space and train their tenants on how to use the equipment. We would love to connect with you on business and creating a space for ourselves on KZbin.

[@TheStudioBusiness]

Hey Joshua, yes would love to connect! Message me on insta and we can set up a time @chicagopodcaststudio

[@birdcodecommunity]

My name is Devesh, I like to have podcasts with you on your journey as a podcaster with tech. I'm from India, It will be great to have you on our "The Techify Show"

[@jeremynot149]

i would like to help publish on world wide

[@GeeQPham]

How did you average $2000 a month?

[@TheStudioBusiness]

We average 10-15k these days! Just kept working on it and growing the clientele.

[@Datnigganews]

How do you price your services?

[@TheStudioBusiness]

Raw files only, with editing and package rates. See our website!