Podcast and Blog

PRODUCING A PODC AST

BY: STEPHANIE HOLMES | LFA, GOC STAFF

About a year ago, Suzanne came to me with the idea of starting a podcast. I have a background in audio engineering so I was excited about this project. There was an empty office that we could use and I already had recording software. All we needed were microphones and charisma and we could get started.

While we did have an extra office to record in, it wasn’t easy turning it into a manageable studio while also distancing the mics so guests would be comfortable recording in person. It took a few tries but I finally found a set up that worked. We were ready to record!

There was definitely a learning curve with the first couple recordings, but once we got into the flow of it, it went a lot easier. Setting up before we record usually takes me about 15 minutes. I check for anything I might need to troubleshoot before we begin, I make sure the mics are connected, and our seats are properly socially distant. The tear down process takes around the same amount of time. I make sure all of our data is where it needs to be and then I settle in for the editing process. This is always the most time-consuming but also the most rewarding. The passion and professionalism that comes from our guest speakers tends to make my job easy. I am happy to provide the platform to present all the ideas we hope to share.

Once we got the hang of in person recordings, we needed to come up with an even safer option for guests who wanted to remain socially distant. Therefore we started to do virtual sessions. For a virtual session I simply email the guest a link that will take them to a virtual room with Suzanne, from there I just press record and let them talk. While this may sound easier it presents a different set of challenges. I don’t have to set up any mics or even use my recording software, but don’t have much control over the audio quality. Sometimes the internet connection is weak, or it goes out all together. There might be a delay or extra static. However, these are challenges we have faced head on and found new ways to overcome.

So far we have recorded eight episodes and have covered a range of topics. We have talked about depression, patient stories, support groups, hair loss, and much more! People have really enjoyed being a part of My Lupus Living Room and I really enjoy producing it! In the intro to every episode, Suzanne says, “I believe this project will not only create awareness about lupus, but offer encouragement to those listening.” I couldn’t agree more! This podcast is another way for us to engage with the community, an opportunity for people to learn about lupus, and good recourse for patients!

Around the same time that we started the podcast, we also started the blog. Lupus Night Light is sort of an extension of the podcast. While Suzanne writes most of the blogs, some of the staff here at LFA, GOC, including myself, have written for the blog as well to share their experiences with lupus. For Suzanne however, she writes about her own personal experience with lupus and how it affects her day-to-day life. She also talks about her experience with lupus amidst living in a global pandemic. Lupus isn’t just a physical illness. There is a lot of pain, anxiety, and depression that comes with it. We can’t make those feelings disappear but between the blog and the podcast, we certainly try to connect to people on a more personal level.

If you want to be a guest on My Lupus Living Room or if you want to write a post for our blog, please send me an email at stephanie@ lupusgreaterohio.org. Everyone has a unique story to tell and we would love to hear yours!