Podshow, the podcasting network that brings you Adam Curry, C. C. Chapman, and many other "A-list" podcasters, announced last week the addition of The Roadhouse Podcast—one of my personal favorites. Host Tony Steidler-Dennison announced the move officially in show #50, and made sure that listeners knew nothing fundamental would change with the podcast. "I retain complete creative control over the Roadhouse. Really, they like what they've heard right now, and they're not at all interested in exerting any changes on the show." He also made clear that he has discretion over what advertising runs on the show, and is not obligated to run any ads. Steidler-Dennison also told listeners that any funds donated through the tip jar on the site would be donated directly to the Blues Association's Handy Artists Trust Fund.
Even as they were gaining a quality podcast, Podshow lost one. Mark Hunter announced that his Tartan Podcast (another personal favorite) would be leaving Podshow. "I have in fact left Podshow, asking in writing for my contract to be terminated with immediate effect," comments Hunter. "I wasn’t happy with the direction the company was moving in, was unable to open a dialogue with them about my concerns, the vibe that was created when I joined last June wasn’t sustained (sadly), and while there are some great, passionate, visionary-types working for the company it would seem that they aren’t the driving force."
The attraction of a "network" like Podshow is obvious. Exposure to a wider audience, opportunities to actually make some money podcasting, etc. are great incentives. The power that an entity like Podshow has with potential advertisers is not to be underestimated. Savvy podcasters like Steidler-Dennison who can ensure that they retain creative and administrative control over their podcasts can certainly do well at Podshow.
But podcasting is rooted in anti-establishment sentiment. It's the 21st century equivalent of pirate radio. And podcasters want to make a difference. Some will be able to accomplish their goals with networks like Podshow. They simply want to get the music out, and allow people to hear bands that they may never hear otherwise. But others want to change the way things are done on a greater scale, and some are deciding that Podshow isn't the way to do that anymore.
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