ABOUT:
Chris Krimitsos is the founder of Podfest.
He started with podcasts because he’s always been interested in content. He had done two TV shows previously as well as some radio. He and his wife both have podcasts. He’s very passionate about allowing people to connect via audio.
What was your motivation for Podfest?
He enjoys working with content creators and feels he has a gift for supporting others in their talent. It brings his life lots of meaning to help others.
How did you start the event?
In the beginning, it was difficult to podcast because tools and equipment weren’t readily available.
After bringing business groups together the word spread. They started will 110 attendees and it has grown to over 1800 people attending. They have an official documentary about podcasting called, “The Messengers”.
Community tips: Listen to your community feedback and do what will help the most people in your group. One example is their “Pay it Forward” program by buying a ticket for someone who could use the help.
They also did a closing keynote of the audience sharing what they are grateful for.
He finds that the community and connection have brought results he could never expect.
How has creating Podfest changed your business and yourself as a person?
It’s a lot of work and effort to keep it an incredibly positive environment. He feels so grateful to be able to give back. Finding positive people and team members creates enormous success because they are invested in the mission. While temps may be more cost-effective, volunteers are invested in the mission and process.
LEARNING FROM THE PAST:
If you could go back in time, what tips would you give your younger self?
Start ugly faster. Don’t worry about perfection, experiment with processes. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes and risks. Learn and grow every day. Being afraid leaves us stuck only where we feel comfortable.
High achievers blame perfectionism, others blame fear.
The ultimate failure is thinking about something and never doing it. If you find you don’t like something, stop.
What are some tips you have for making themselves an influencer in their industry?
Be clear on your intent. Your why needs to become bigger than your how. Make yourself an E-connector to become the go-to person to make connections. At an event, host a small dinner. State the intent and who you are. Have each person do a 10-second introduction. Use that information to help connect people. Connecting two people sets the tone and relaxes people to open up. Innovative opportunities will come your way. You become the person that gets information before your peers. Use it to grow your business and help people.
What is advice you’d give for starting a podcast?
We will ignore celebrity built podcasts. If you are knowledgeable, search your topic in podcasts and see what’s out there. Look at keywords to use to cue listeners. Don’t be concerned if there are multiple podcasts on the topic. Find a way that makes you unique and get to know the other hosts because they will be your guests.
If you are busy, try to release regularly. Batch record a season and release them at once. Hire an editor to make it sound as good as possible.
If you want to find out more. Look up podfestexpo.com or go to www.chriskristimos.com