BONUS: a peek behind the pod
Digest
The Deadheads podcast chronicles the creators' experience building their show, from initial dismissive responses and the overwhelming task of production to securing a grant and aiming for the Tribeca Film Festival. The intense effort involved in creating their submission is detailed, followed by their disappointment at rejection. Despite this setback, they emphasize their newfound independence and future plans, including new episodes, re-releases, and calls for listener support through Patreon and other avenues. The podcast explores themes of financial anxiety, late-stage capitalism, and the challenges of independent podcasting within a gatekeeping media landscape.
Outlines
Launching Deadheads & Early Challenges
The hosts introduce their podcast, "Deadheads," focused on the American economy from a perspective of financial struggle. They discuss initial challenges, including dismissive responses and the immense effort of podcast creation.
Funding, Tribeca Submission, and Production
The hosts detail securing a grant, upgrading equipment, and the intense work of creating their Tribeca Film Festival submission.
Tribeca Rejection and Embracing Independence
The hosts share their disappointment at Tribeca's rejection, their emotional response, and their decision to continue independently.
Future Plans and Listener Support
The hosts announce future plans, including new episodes, re-releases, and encourage listener support via Patreon and other methods.
Keywords
Late-Stage Capitalism
The current phase of capitalism, marked by high inequality, financial instability, and corporate power.
Independent Podcasting
Creating and distributing podcasts without major media corporation backing.
Financial Anxiety
Worry and stress related to finances, often from debt or income insecurity.
Gatekeepers (in media)
Individuals or institutions controlling access to media opportunities.
Grant Funding (for creative projects)
Financial support for artists and creators.
Tribeca Film Festival
Prestigious film festival, often used as a benchmark for success.
Podcast Production
The process of creating and releasing a podcast, including recording, editing, and distribution.
Patreon
A platform for creators to receive direct financial support from their audience.
Q&A
What was the initial reaction to the Deadheads podcast concept?
Many were dismissive, highlighting the challenges of gaining traction.
How did the hosts overcome initial challenges?
They secured a grant and used the Tribeca submission as a deadline and goal.
How did the hosts react to Tribeca rejection?
Initially distressed, they channeled disappointment into renewed determination and independence.
How can listeners support Deadheads?
Through Patreon, Substack, likes, follows, ratings, and sharing.
What are the hosts' future plans?
New episodes, re-releases of older episodes, and continued exploration of money, mental health, and the economy.
Show Notes
In this mini episode of Debt Heads, take a peek behind the curtain, and a step back in time, to hear us get rejected by Tribeca Film Festival.
Follow Debt Heads on Instagram, TikTok, Substack, Patreon and YouTube.
Credits:
Writing/Editing/Production: Jamie Feldman & Rachel Webster
Theme Song: "Pay For That Money," Written and Performed by The Defibulators, PigCow Publishing (ASCAP)
Original Score: Ali Helnwein
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Table of contents
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