In this episode of Think Piece, Francisca is joined by indie podcasting pro and Podtastic Audio creator, Chris Smith, for an honest, encouraging, and practical conversation about what it really takes to start a podcast.

From $20 headsets and “figuring it out as you go” to the deeper reason why so many people feel called to create something of their own, this conversation goes beyond gear talk—it’s about soul, intention, and community.

Whether you’re a new podcaster, a lifelong creative, or just curious about how people make magic from their laptops, Chris brings real-talk, humor, and accessible tips on how to make your show sound better—without breaking the bank.

 Topics covered:

• Budget-friendly gear that actually works
• The emotional side of creating your own thing
• Why podcasting is more than numbers—it’s connection
• Audio vs. video (and why audio might still be your sweet spot)
• Building a grounded, authentic, creative community
• A behind-the-scenes look at The Podtastic Playbook

This episode is a love letter to indie creators—and a reminder that you don’t need to be famous to make something powerful. Just real.