Our Podfluencer feature is finally back! And we couldn’t be more excited to introduce you to Sherri Hope Culver, host of Kids Talk Media! The shows foundation is built upon curious kids and their digital world. Have you ever wondered what kids really think about the latest movies, apps, video games, televisions shows, along with books and music. We had the pleasure to learn all about Sherri and her podcast. We welcome her to TopPodcast, as a Podfluencer.
Who Is Sherri Culver?
Sherri serves as Director of the Center for Media and Information Literacy at Temple University, USA where she is an associate professor in the Klein College of Media and Communication. Prior to her adventures in academia, she worked as a producer and television executive for over 25 years and currently consults with children’s media companies such as YouTube Kids and Nickelodeon.
Sherri was recently elected vice-chair of the UNESCO Global Alliance on Partnerships for Media and Information Literacy and regularly presents internationally on media literacy and children’s media topics. Sherri is three-term past president of the National Association for Media Literacy Education. She has authored and co-authored several books, including a chapter in the latest edition of “20 Questions about Youth and the Media” (2018) and the “State of Media Literacy” report published by NAMLE. Sherri Hope Culver was elected vice chair of the international steering committee for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s Global Alliance on Partnerships for Media and Information Literacy.
We are excited to welcome Kristi Lee, host of Canadian True Crime, to the TopPodcast #Podfluencer family.
Who is Kristi Lee?
Kristi is the Australian creator and host of the Canadian True Crime podcast. Originally from Brisbane, Australia, Kristi has lived in the Greater Toronto Area since 2009 and is a proud Canadian citizen. She’s an avid true crime enthusiast and podcast listener too! Towards the end of 2016, she noticed there was a shortage of podcasts dedicated solely to true crime in Canada, and that sparked an idea in her head. And the rest is history…
Kristi is married (to another Australian) and together they have two little Canadians. She works full-time in downtown Toronto, and still records the podcast from her walk-in closet – in her spare time!
Who has had the biggest influence on your podcasting career and why?
Definitely Casefile. I’ve been listening since they released episode 3 and greatly admired the host’s no-nonsense approach to story-telling. He wrote a straight-forward, fact-based story that was primarily in chronological order, and left personal opinions out of it. And his narration style was the same – no-nonsense. He also placed emphasis on the victims and was always respectful. As he strategically grew his team, it just kept getting better and better. I thought it was (and is!) brilliant.
If there’s someone, past or present, that you’d love to have an opportunity to go to dinner with, who would that be and why?
Probably Larry David, the writer behind Seinfeld and Curb Your Enthusiasm. I think he’s utterly hilarious and has a unique outlook on life that I love. Problem is, he’s an obvious misanthrope so he likely wouldn’t want to have dinner with me anyway!
What is it about your audience that continues to surprise you?
That they continue to listen! I’m not perfect and neither is my podcast. Yet they seem to really love it. I really enjoy chatting with listeners on social media – the true crime community is one of the best aspects of podcasting.
In one word, how would your best friends describe you? Why do you think that is?
It’s hard to find one word! I would have to give three: candid, realist, sarcastic. I try to live my life by a motto my dad always told me – “Honesty is the best policy”. I don’t care much about keeping up with the Joneses. People who know me know that what they see is what they get (whether they like it or not!).
If you had one day, completely free, away from work, no watch on, and could do whatever the hell you wanted, what would it be and why?
Sleep in until noon like I used to do every weekend before I had kids! After that, I would lie on the couch and watch Netflix all afternoon. I’m a real lazy homebody!
Any advertisers you want to give a shout out to or anyone you’d like to thank?
TeaRunners.com – I’m super proud of my collaboration with this company because I love their product and mine is the first podcast they’ve advertised with! They’re a loose leaf tea box subscription service – each month you get four new teas to try that last you the month. I am LOVING their teas. They provide free shipping to Canada and the US… and best of all, they’re a Canadian company!
TopPodcast continues to highlight local, independent podcasters break through the white-noise of the industry, featuring relevant hosts as our featured Podfluencers.
This week is no different, as the Philadelphia Eagles have secured the #1 seed in the NFC…and we feel the timeliness of this feature makes sense. We welcome Mark Drumheller, co-host of 4th and Go, a podcast that takes a look at the die-hard local Philadelphia sports scene!
Who is Mark Drumheller?
Mark is a sports talker, writer, and tweeter that decided to deliver a local Philly sports podcast that appeals to the die-hard sports community in the Delaware Valley. He started is podcast with WildfireRadio.com, which is done LIVE every Wednesday night at 9:30pm EST.
Who has had the biggest influence on your podcasting career and why?
The network at Wildfire Radio. Watching the owners grow the business from a small start up, I have learned so much about developing podcasts to scale. The network there allows us constant exposure to all types of different podcasters doing everything from sports to comedy to real estate, food, music and much more. The diversity and experience has really made a huge impact. Being able to brainstorm and learn from each other’s experiences has been invaluable. When we started back in 2015, our approach was geared more towards radio programming because we weren’t very familiar with podcasting. Having that network to support us, made all the difference as we shifted the show more towards the sports entertainment space and treated it like a podcast. The results have been incredible.
If there’s someone, past or present, that you’d love to have an opportunity to go to dinner with, who would that be and why?
Bill Belichick for sure. I would learn so much from arguably the greatest coach in football history. Not only from an x’s and o’s perspective, but also from a leadership perspective. He built an incredible dynasty, lost so many coaches along the years, and he is still able to develop new ones within the organization. Every team in the NFL tries to emulate what he does, and they fall short. The football talk would be awesome, but those leadership principles translate into everyday life.
What is it, about your audience, that continues to surprise you?
Their diversity and passion. Sports is a way of life in Philadelphia, but we reach all over the country and some of our most loyal listeners are not even Philadelphia sports fans. They just heard the podcast and love our unique brand of sports talk. Our goal is always make the audience feel like they are out with their friends talking sports. Whether it’s in the stands of the stadium, in the parking lot tailgating, at the bar, or just sitting on the couch at home. Our motto is sports talk #4thefans, by the fans. We are just like them, we are them. Sometimes we will steer off topic and do a segment on something not even sports related, and we got a great reception on social media from our audience when we do. Originally, we were concerned to deviate from sports, but it seems like they enjoy it more because it gives them that personal feel of just hanging out with friends.
In one word, how would your best friends describe you? Why do you think that is?
Argumentative, hahahaha. I like a good debate. That’s the only way to learn. I would have been a lawyer if it wasn’t for the extensive schooling. I tapped out after my bachelors.
If you had one day, completely free, away from work, no watch on, and could do whatever the hell you wanted, what would it be and why?
The War Room of the NFL Draft. Preferably the Philadelphia Eagles, but honestly the team doesn’t matter. There are very little stories of what goes on in that war room during the draft. It’s classified intel. Every football fan deep down wants to be an NFL GM wheeling and dealing on draft day. That’s why fantasy football is such a huge success. Sign me up. Any team. I’m all in.
Anyone you want to give a shout out to or anyone you’d like to thank (it could be family, friends, sponsors, etc?
The unbelievably hard working owners over at Wildfire Radio who believed in us when nobody else did. Our loyal sponsor, Sullivan Strategic, another self made start up that is killing it. Our good friend, Bob Menery, comedic sportscaster that works relentlessly to make people laugh. Support them all. Hard work pays off!
Continuing to bring you a refreshing look at Independent podcasters making their mark, today we feature celebrity chef Brian Duffy!
Who Is Chef Brian Duffy?
Chef Duffy is known for numerous television appearances on the Spike TV series Bar Rescue, as well as for his frank demeanor toward all things culinary. The celebrity chef tours the United States, occasionally riding his Harley Davidson, helping and revamping struggling or failing bars and restaurants along the way. Kicking of his television career on the Food Network series “Date Plate” and Chef Duffy has also been featured on the DIY Network, HGTV, NBC, and Fine Living Network.
Serving as a judge on the Food Network series “Beat Bobby Flay” and appearing on The Today Show since 2006 for the St. Patrick’s Day Irish cook-off have been a few more of his notable accolades in-front of the camera. Chef Duffy developed his signature spices, “Duffified Spice” along with T-shirts, kitchen aprons, hats, and hand soaps specifically fitting the needs of chefs
Who has had the biggest influence on your podcasting career and why?
My producers Jerry petuck & Jason Floyd. these two have been an amazing support for me, my podcast & the progression of the show. from editing, to late night interviews… its these two
If there’s someone, past or present, that you’d love to have an opportunity to go to dinner with, who would that be and why?
It would have to be my father. the last few years were tough for him after being diagnosed with cancer. id love that last opportunity to sit with him & just talk
What is it, about your audience, that continues to surprise you?
their never ending support!
In one word, how would your best friends describe you? Why do you think that is?
FUN!
If you had one day, completely free, away from work, no watch on, and could do whatever the hell you wanted, what would it be and why?
I would be on my Harley for the first half of the day, a few friends riding with me & then out for the night with my daughters! Emily & fiona are a HUGE driving force behind so much of what I do
Any advertisers you want to give a shout out to or anyone you’d like to thank ?
My producers Jerry Petuck & Jason Floyd. these two have been an amazing support for me, my podcast & the progression of the show. from editing, to late night interviews… its these two. Also… Magge Gagliardi…. the creative for all of our ads & promo pieces, She works long hours & always has a creative piece no matter how late i get her a guests image! Check her work out @magzart. Techknow Solutions handles ALL of my websites & since we’ve been doing business for over 6 years.. its a great relationship.
The reason I wanted to start the breakup BOOST podcast and breakup coaching business is because I found myself constantly encountering people who were either struggling with a relationship, going through a breakup, sitting on the fence about whether they should breakup, or getting back into the dating scene and having a tough time with it.
I also found myself constantly offering advice and coaching friends through their heartbreak and dating episodes (and being good at it). That’s when I decided to kick it up a notch and extend my reach to be able to help so many other people who need support and strength during such a difficult time.
Times are changing…and relationships seem to be getting more challenging to build and maintain. I know what it’s like to go through heartbreak – but I also know that you can always get through it and be better off because of it.
Her mission is to help people heal their hearts and get back in the dating saddle and we are excited to feature her as a #TopPodcast Podfluencer – and after reading this, make sure you subscribe to her podcast in iTunes (but you can listen to her show first below, with one simple click).
The Breakup BOOST Podcast (Listen Here)
Her Favorite Episodes (Click to Listen)
Click to Listen!Click To Listen
Click to Listen
The Interview
Who has had the biggest influence on your podcasting career and why?
I know this may be an odd answer, but I would have to say myself. I have had the biggest influence on myself because everything I talk about is from my life experience. This is how I am able to relate to people and put myself in their shoes to know how they are feeling. To be successful in podcasting, you have to tear down the walls and be authentic. Influencing yourself to be yourself and not worry about what anyone thinks of you is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself.
If there’s someone, past or present, that you’d love to have an opportunity to go to dinner with, who would that be and why?
God. To ask him all of the questions we don’t know the answers to and to thank him for always having my back.
What is it, about your audience, that continues to surprise you?
When listeners email me to tell me how much I have impacted their life, it blows me away and touches my heart on so many levels. It’s literally the best feeling ever. Side note: I think many people may be surprised to know that almost half of my listeners are male. Men don’t sit around talking about breakups and relationship problems for hours like women do…they too need someone to lean on for support, so I am glad I am able to be there for them.
In one word, how would your best friends describe you? Why do you think that is?
Just one word? Gosh, that’s a tricky one…but if I had to narrow it down, I would say optimistic. Whenever someone gets on the “Negative Nancy” train, I quickly interject with a positive perspective. I don’t get on the train with them. There is always a silver lining and being a positive person just makes life better and more enjoyable in every way! Being negative doesn’t solve anything, so why even go there?!
If you had one day, completely free, away from work, no watch on, and could do whatever the hell you wanted, what would it be and why?
Fly off somewhere I have never been before (close enough that I wouldn’t use up the whole day on the plane). Rent a hotel room that has super comfy beds with fluffy white comforters. Have a quick nap (although I would probably be too excited to sleep). Then I would go off exploring the city, eat LOTS of good food unique to the area (not counting calories), and just see where the night takes me. I love randomness and the unexpected. I think those elements create the best moments and memories.
Anyone you’d like to thank? Friends, Family, Mentors, Advertisers or Sponsors?
I would like to thank my Mom who has been my biggest supporter and is always quick to remind me when that I need to put out a new episode because my listeners are probably waiting for one. And of course, I would like to thank and send positive vibes to all of my listeners, anyone who has taken the time to leave me a positive review, and to anyone who has taken the time to email me to share their story. ]
Podcasts are local too, and nothing highlights the power of influential local podcasts as Jawn Appetit, a Philadelphia based podcast focusing on the restaurant scene in the City of Brother Love.
Host Roy Burton
Roy Burton takes you on a fun & informative (and sometimes irreverent) journey without the pretentiousness that you might find elsewhere! Take a listen, especially if your headed on a business trip to Philly…and looking for a great place to eat! His personal Twitter is Here
Who has had the biggest influence on your podcasting career and why?
It’s hard to pick just one person as an influence, but the Tony Kornheiser Show was one of the first podcasts I ever listened to and, to me, it’s the perfect blend of information, conversation and entertainment. I’ve been podcasting for several years now, and I’ve always used the format of that show as a model of sorts.
If there’s someone, past or present, that you’d love to have an opportunity to go to dinner with, who would that be and why?
Barack Obama. Not sure this needs too much explanation, but having the chance to sit down with him and have a casual conversation would check off a major item on my bucket list. And from what I’ve read, he’s something of a foodie, so we could probably swap a few restaurant recommendations during the meal!
What is it, about your audience, that continues to surprise you?
The thing with podcasting is that you never really know if/when someone is listening to your show. So, when people I don’t know come up to me in public or reach out to me on Twitter and want to discuss specific topics/shows, it always throws me for a loop! Sure… it’s cool to see our listenership numbers grow every month, but it’s always nice to have that personal interaction with someone who enjoys what you do.
In one word, how would your best friends describe you? Why do you think that is?
Quiet. It’s odd… Each week, I host a radio and two separate podcasts, but other than that, I’m really not that much of a talker. I’m someone who likes to sit with my thoughts for a bit, but I’ve kind of taken to this podcasting thing far more than I thought I would.
If you had one day, completely free, away from work, no watch on, and could do whatever the hell you wanted, what would it be and why?
I’d probably spend the day walking around the French Quarter of New Orleans with my wife. Grab some beignets in the morning, do a little people watching, take a cooking class in the afternoon, and then hit Acme Oyster House for dinner.
Any you’d like to thank?
I’d just like to thank all of our listeners out there for giving us a shot and spreading the word about our show – we truly appreciate your support!
We are thrilled to introduce you to Chelsea Cox, host of Deliberations, which brings you one of the ‘first dramatically improvised courtroom drama podcasts’, she takes you inside the jury room! In an interview with ReviewFix.com last month, it highlights the authenticity of the podcast within the True Crime podcast sphere:
By employing improvisation in the storytelling, Deliberations creates an authentic environment for jurors to find a verdict. By asking hard questions about ambiguous circumstances, it holds up a lens to our criminal justice system.
Who Is Chelsea Cox?
Chelsea’s obsession to this genre began when she heard the Casey Anthony verdict. The verdict had a clear impact on how she viewed the criminal justice system and just how flawed the system can be.
As a criminal justice and fiction enthusiast, Chelsea searched relentlessly for podcasts that would scratch her particular itch. When these searches proved fruitless, she drew upon her experience in theatre, writing, and improv to create a semi-scripted courtroom drama. In Deliberations, Chelsea explores the way justice is interpreted by a jury under the most ambiguous of circumstances.
Follow Deliberations On Social Media
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Our Interview With Chelsea
Who has had the biggest influence on your podcasting career and why?
Brooke Gittings. Having been inspired by the way she supports indie podcasters on her episodes, I was hopeful to sponsor her show Actual Innocence when I launched Deliberations. Brooke went the extra mile by listening to my work, speaking with her network, and reaching out to me personally for support and guidance. She’s a true inspiration to indie podcasters and the spirit of community support and uplifting others.
If there’s someone, past or present, that you’d love to have an opportunity to go to dinner with, who would that be and why?
Anne Boleyn. I think she’s gotten a bad rap historically speaking, and as such she’s this everlasting mystery… who’s the real Anne Boleyn? I think she was actually a strong willed, pragmatic, and impassioned woman. I’m fascinated by the way she was demonized posthumously – from physical attributes (warts and extra fingers) to diabolical seduction and treason… I’d love to sit down with her and get the real story.
What is it, about your audience, that continues to surprise you?
How brilliant they are! All the time people are posting in the Facebook Group Deliberations Room (https://www.facebook.com/groups/114530992565658/ ) with insight into the case and characters I’d never considered! My fans themselves make me review and reflect on my own writing, and that’s an intense personal experience for me.
In one word, how would your best friends describe you? Why do you think that is?
Introverted. I worry I’m not always the easiest to be friends with because of how often I isolate. I need to be alone to recharge, and my battery retention is pretty cruddy.
If you had one day, completely free, away from work, no watch on, and could do whatever the hell you wanted, what would it be and why?
I’d go to the Tower of London and spend the day wandering and witnessing. The centuries of unjust deaths. The quarters of Thomas More. The sites of decapitations for Anne Boleyn, Catherine Howard, Lady Jane Grey, and Mary Queen of Scots. I get the Tudor obsession from my mom (who has a whole library dedicated to the subject) but I guess that’s a pretty macabre thing to do with my day… Should I have said go karting?
Any advertisers you want to give a shout out to or anyone you’d like to thank ?
Any company who’s willing to take a chance on the experimental work I’m doing deserves a shout out because they all took a risk. I do think Hunt A Killer has been especially fun to interact with on social media. And Casper has been especially supportive (yuk yuk) by providing me with a real mattress – which has honestly improved the quality of my life. How can I not be grateful for that?
Jurors enter deliberations in the trial of Samantha Hall, a dominatrix on trial for murdering her submissive lover, Troy, by instructing him to asphyxiate with a rope. As the press sensationalizes and speculates, Samantha’s six member jury attempts to methodically establish the case timeline. Tensions develop between jurors as judgement arises over the defendant’s alternative lifestyle
Jurors analyze Samantha’s 911 call and the circumstances surrounding Troy’s discovery. A former service provider to Troy, professional dominatrix Mistress Carolynne reveals the particulars of her profession and history with the victim. When discussing the Dominant/submissive dynamic between Samantha and Troy, the jury explores where the line is drawn between consent and abuse. Guest starring LA Dominatrix Justine Cross
This week a real lifestyle submissive (going by the pseudonym Rebecca) explains the unique and often-misunderstood way of life chosen by her and her “Master.” Rebecca also answers listener questions and weighs in on her perspective of Samantha Hall’s guilt or innocence.
The team at TopPodcast is excited to welcome Wendy MacKenzie, co-host of Unsolved Murders: Truie Crime Stories, as our Podfluencer of the Week! “Unsolved Murders” is a podcast that is more along the lines of an audio movie., in which they have “screenwriters, an ensemble of voice actors, plus production values that stand out from the vast majority of podcasts.”
Once you listen to this podcast, you will notice just how big of an emphasis is put on production. And the combination of hosts, Wendy and Carter, combined with a highly talented ensemble cast of voice actors, will take you on adventure through the crimes scene of each case as they attempt to solve these true and real cold cases
Listen to Unsolved Murders – Click On Picture Below
Who has had the biggest influence on your podcasting career?
Ron Cutler. I have a history of working with him in radio for over 40 years now. It’s a long and joyful history of recording together.
If there’s someone, past or present that you’d want to have dinner with, who would you pick?
Amelia Earhart. She was a real innovator. I really admire how she stepped out of her comfort zone to accomplish the incredible. She proved that women are just as capable of achievement as men, which was a major moment for women’s rights.
What surprises you about your audience?
They have incredible loyalty. You just can’t buy that.
In one word, how would your friends describe you?
Bubbly. To be more specific, one friend once said “your smile is like being hugged by birthday cake” so that must mean I’m bubbly.
If you had one free day with no work and no clock, what would you do?
Art! I’m an artist too, so I would sketch, draw, and maybe read some Joseph Campbell.
Advertisers you love?
ThirdLove! They have amazing bras, and have been supporting the show for a long time now. I also loved BarkBox, since I have five dogs.
#TopPodcast could not be happier to feature Brooke Gittings, who is making her impact very well ‘heard’ in the podcast world! More than just a Podfluencer, Brooke Gittings is impacted peoples lives. Learn more about our Podfluencer of the Week below!
Who Is Brooke Gittings?
Brooke is a Social Worker who is driven to advocate for people who need help. She is especially moved to help with wrongful conviction victims. She was previously a child therapist and is now a host and producer of this and another podcast.
She created Convicted because the injustice in the story of Richard Nicolas was so compelling she wanted to share it with others who could help advocate on his behalf.
Who has had the biggest influence on your podcasting career and why?
I think Serial had the biggest influence on my love for podcasting, but it was Bob Ruff from “Serial Dynasty” that influenced me to turn my love into a career.
If there’s someone, past or present, that you’d love to have an opportunity to go to dinner with, who would that be and why?
This is not just the fan girl in me, but… Kevin Spacey. I think he is a phenomenal actor who has managed to keep his private life private. He can be the president of the United States or a man on the death penalty for a crime he didn’t commit. It all comes so natural to him… I’d just like to know his story
What is it, about your audience, that continues to surprise you?
The positive support and the way they empowered to help others. I feel, in a way, I don’t just have an audience, I don’t just have listeners – I have advocates. That is amazing and inspiring to me in so many ways.
In one word, how would your best friends describe you? Why do you think that is?
Tired. Podcasts are a lot of work. I think that I would be described as genuine a person who stands up for what I believe is the right thing.
If you had one day, completely free, away from work, no watch on, and could do whatever the hell you wanted, what would it be and why?
I would go to Disney World – I mean preferenentialy with Kevin Spacey, but you know Mickey is a good guy too. Everyone at Disney World is so nice – I like being surrounded by nice supportive people.
Any advertisers you want to give a shout out to? Or anyone you’d like to thank ?
I love all my sponsors, but I want to shout out to Bombas… they not only make great socks, but they help those in need. I use my stamps.com scale every day – Chatbooks too is an amazing creation!
I want to thank Audioboom, my host, my people, my support for everything they’ve done to make my podcasts succeed.
When we started our Podfluencer feature, we knew we’d uncover a diverse group of ‘podcast influeners’ that impact people lives. And it’s the diversity of the podcast industry that hold part of its endearing charm, uncovering those individuals that truly drive meaningful conversations. And this weeks Podfluencer brings you Gary Hendler, of Clean and Sober Radio.
Who Is Gary Hendler?
Gary Hendler, a Philadelphia Native, has been in successful recovery for 35 years. Having spent most of his teenage and young adult years in the music industry, Gary grew up in the fast lane and paid a very heavy price for it by living a life of substance abuse before getting clean and sober in 1982. He has been a mainstay fixture in the recovery community since them.
Running a successful real estate company as well as hosting the “Clean and Sober” Radio show on WWDB-AM and 610 SPORTS, he was also appointed by Pennyslvania Governor Tom Wolf to serve as a full board member on the Pennsylvania Advisory Council on Drug and Alcohol abuse.
Listen to Clean and Sober Radio Podcast
Listen Now!
Gary’s Favorite Episodes of His Show (feeds not available)
Dion Dimucci
Judy Colins
Jackie the Jokeman Martlin
The Interview
Who has had the biggest influence on your career?
My Audience – I get amazing feedback from them and they tell me they listen to my show all the time
If there’s someone, past and present, that you’d love to go to dinner with, who would it be and why?
Vladimir Putin – I would really like to know who he really is and not necessarily how the media portrays him.
What is it about your audience that continues to surprise you?
I love their devotion to the subject matter – week after week.
In one word, how would your best friends describe you? And Why?
Loyal, because I stick with my friends during good times as well as bad.
If you had one day, completely free of work, no watch on, and could do whatever the hell you wanted, what would it would it be and why?
Sitting on a beach in the Carribean smoking a cigar. The Carribean is the most peaceful place for me.
Mark is a sports talker, writer, and tweeter that decided to deliver a local Philly sports podcast that appeals to the die-hard sports community in the Delaware Valley. He started is podcast with WildfireRadio.com, which is done LIVE every Wednesday night at 9:30pm EST.
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