In this On Camera On Brand episode, host Rob Ruscher sits down with Tristan Pelligrino, Co-Founder of Motion. They delve into the intricacies of podcast production, focusing on the importance of sound quality, especially in dynamic environments like trade shows or events.
Tristan shares valuable insights on how to maintain audio consistency, suggesting the use of wireless lav mics for their versatility and convenience.
The conversation then shifts to the visual aspects of podcasting. Tristan and Rob discuss the importance of lighting in creating a visually appealing podcast. They highlight the common challenges faced and share tips on how to overcome them. Tristan emphasizes the value of renting equipment for beginners, allowing them to experiment without a significant upfront investment.
Lastly, they touch on the practicalities of setting up a physical space for podcast recording. They discuss the importance of considering the room’s acoustics and layout and how these factors can significantly impact the overall quality of the podcast. This episode is a treasure trove of practical advice for anyone interested in podcast production.
Featured Guest
Name: Tristan Pelligrino
What he does: Co-Founder & Co-Owner of multiple agencies
Company: Motion & New North
Noteworthy: A seasoned podcaster who values planning and preparation for in-person recording, Tristan emphasizes the importance of minimizing disruption during conversations and is adept at working with different lighting conditions for video recording. He also sees the value in recording at events for content creation and networking.
Key Insights
The Hidden Benefits of On-Site Podcasting
Rob shares his experience of conducting a podcast series at a trade show, highlighting the hidden benefits of such an approach. Beyond the content generated, on-site podcasting can attract people to your booth, fostering networking opportunities and increasing brand visibility. Tristan agrees, emphasizing the importance of planning to make the podcast the centerpiece of your trade show presence.
The Importance of Sound and Versatility of Equipment
The discussion shifts to the technical aspects of podcasting, with a focus on sound quality. Rob stresses the importance of sound over visuals, suggesting the use of wireless lav mics for their versatility. Tristan adds that lav mics can help interviewees forget they’re being recorded, leading to more natural conversations. They also discuss the benefits of renting equipment, allowing for experimentation without a significant upfront investment.
Lighting Challenges and Solutions
Lighting is often neglected in podcast production, but Rob argues it’s crucial for creating a visually appealing podcast. He shares his approach to lighting, which involves using large softboxes to create soft shadows and a more flattering look for interviewees. He also discusses the importance of adaptability, as unpredictable factors like weather or unexpected obstructions can require on-the-spot adjustments. Tristan agrees, noting that past experiences and challenges can inform better lighting solutions.
Episode Highlights
The Why Behind On-Site Podcasting
Timestamp: [00:03:35]
Rob and Tristan discuss the advantages of conducting a podcast series at a trade show or event. Beyond generating content, on-site podcasting can attract people to your booth, fostering networking opportunities and increasing brand visibility. They emphasize the importance of planning to make the podcast the centerpiece of your trade show presence.
“We did a whole podcast-like series while on the showroom floor. And what I found beyond now, I come home with like ten episodes that I was able to use. I met so many people. People came and hung out at the booth, and the company was Tokina Lens Company. They got so many people in that booth just to hang out just because they want to listen to the podcast.” – Rob
Technical Aspects of In-Person Recording
Timestamp: [00:08:40]
The conversation shifts to the technical aspects of in-person recording. They discuss how to handle technical issues without disrupting the flow of the conversation. Rob shares his approach to using the warmup period to make necessary adjustments to the equipment.
“So for me, I built that, like, when we sat down, we were talking about donuts, beer. And while we’re doing that, I’m messing with my mic. I’m checking your stuff, and I’m looking at cameras. So I kind of try to do that warmup.” – Rob
The Versatility of Equipment
Timestamp: [00:10:15]
Rob and Tristan discuss the versatility of equipment used in podcasting. They highlight the importance of testing things out before hitting the record button. They also discuss the benefits of hiring a professional crew and renting equipment, allowing experimentation without a significant upfront investment.
“A lot of folks make that mistake where it’s like, alright, we’re behind on time. We gotta get rolling. Let’s just sit down and do it. And then, once that happens, your cameras are rolling. It’s very hard to adjust at that point.” – Tristan.
Microphone Positioning at Events
Timestamp: [00:14:14]
The conversation turns to the best ways to position a microphone at an event to get the best audio. They discuss the benefits of different types of microphones, with a particular focus on wireless lav mics for their versatility and convenience. They also stress the importance of renting equipment, especially for those new to podcasting.
“So your three main microphones, I would say the wireless lav might be a great option for you at a trade show. And those are anyone that doesn’t know; it’s just this little microphone. It’s called a lava mic. It’s called wireless lav for short clips onto your shirt here, and you can wire it into your back pocket.” – Rob Ruscher
