Welcome to the first podcast of the year, where we navigate the turbulent waters of live-streaming platforms. The tides are shifting, and content creators are actively seeking new harbors away from the likes of Twitch, with its growing ad demands, and YouTube, which often sidelines live streamers. Remember the fleeting success of platforms like Mixer and Glimmish? As history cycles, we’re now turning our gaze to the new kids on the block: SharePlay and LiveSpace. Listen in as we explore what these emerging services are bringing to the table in their beta phases, and how they might just become the sanctuaries streamers are searching for.

In our journey through the digital sea, we cast our net on SharePlay, scrutinizing the features that have become the bedrock of live streaming. Striking the right chord between the comfort of the familiar and the allure of innovation is a balancing act, and it’s one that Trovo has played well, but what about SharePlay? I share my first-hand experience with their beta testing, tackling the non-OBS streaming challenges, and the importance of a platform’s quick response to user feedback. Discover how analytics tools and payment system integrations like Stripe are crucial for creators who are charting their course through these international waters.

But the expedition doesn’t end there. LiveSpace beckons with its unique fusion of streaming and social networking, creating a tapestry of interaction that rivals Twitter. For those who prioritize stability and a robust community feed, this might just be your port of call. We’ll navigate through their various content categories, subscriber perks, and the implications of the shift from PayPal to Stripe for transactions. Anchoring our discussion is the user-friendly dashboard, which sets a course for essential streaming analytics without the stringent targets set by giants like Twitch. So hoist your sails, join the conversation, and let’s set sail towards the horizons of SharePlay and LiveSpace, the potential new stars in the streaming constellation.

Sometimes change is a quiet revolution, humming along in the world of technology while we carry on with our daily tweets and scrolls. But have you stopped to consider the digital exodus from mainstream social media to pioneering platforms? Our year-end retrospective takes you through the leaps in alternative platform technology made in 2023, with a special focus on the rise of federated networks like Mastodon and the innovative strides of platforms like Blue Sky and OwnCast. We marvel at OwnCast’s evolution, from 1.0’s transformative features to the nifty 0.1.2 updates, all aiming to craft a more personal and engaging online haven.

Do mainstream platforms leave you longing for more control over your content and how you connect with your audience? Our latest chat delves into the game-changing PeerTube 6.0 release, which brings a suite of features set to empower creators like never before, including password-protected videos and video file replacement sans the re-upload hassle. We unpack the intricacies of setting up a PeerTube instance and discuss how this and other platforms are reimagining monetization, breaking away from traditional ads and towards direct fan support and diverse payment models. And amidst our exploration, we offer tips for creators and viewers navigating these new waters, with an emphasis on community building and the richness of an ad-free experience.

As we peer into the crystal ball towards 2024 and beyond, we find ourselves at the precipice of a new era for independent content creation. We share our experiences with platforms that prioritize creator autonomy and discuss the importance of diversifying content to attract and sustain a wider audience. The conversation turns to the promising future of federated services and our role in nurturing a varied and dynamic content landscape. All this while pondering the evolving ethos of platforms like Live Space and SharePlay, and approaching new contenders with a mindful balance of curiosity and caution. Join us as we map out a path through the evolving ecosystem of digital connection and creation.

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Are you looking for the perfect holiday gift for the content creator in your life? Or maybe, you're the creative genius yearning for new equipment to boost your production value! Either way, we've got you covered! We journey through a plethora of microphone options suitable for every budget, from the affordable Fifine USB microphone to the top-tier Shure SM7B. We dispel the myth that great audio quality equals a hefty price tag and discuss the trap of "gear acquisition syndrome" that plagues many creators.

For those just dipping their toes into the vast ocean of content creation and live streaming, we break it all down to the basics for you. Start small, be patient, and manage your expectations - our mantra. A phone, with its built-in camera, can be a great starting point. But beware, you wouldn't want to damage your precious device! We also touch on the perks of an audio control interface, assuring you it isn't paramount for a successful stream. And we don't stop there - we give you the lowdown on some super user-friendly software options too.

Finally, we move on to the visual side of things - the webcams. We traverse through options for everyone, from beginners to seasoned pros. But hey, why not think outside the box? We introduce the idea of using retro tech like old camcorders for a unique streaming aesthetic. Remember, finding your niche and enjoying the process is key. To sum it up, this episode is packed with insights about the joys of tinkering with equipment and patience, vital traits for every content creator. So, tune in, whether you're a veteran, a newcomer, or shopping for one, we've got something for everyone.

In this insightful episode of the Independent Creator Podcast, we delve into the innovative world of self-hosted live streaming with Owncast, an open-source software that's rewriting the rules of broadcasting. Host Josh Bailey demystifies Owncast's functionalities and explores its bold initiative of involving creators in the platform’s continuing growth. The episode also uncovers how Owncast users are leveraging The Fediverse, a decentralized social network, to reach a diverse audience. Engaging soundbites from users and experts lends a well-rounded perspective on Owncast's potential to revolutionize content creation. Tune in for a comprehensive understanding of how Owncast is redefining control and autonomy for live-stream broadcasters.

Welcome to the Independent Creator Podcast, where we discuss alternative platforms and content creation. In this episode, we announce a major evolution for the show - we're becoming more dynamic, offering more value while refining our content production process. No longer are we sticking to the three stories per episode structure; instead, we're moving to a free-flowing format where we dive into a singular topic or platform in depth. This new approach allows us to provide a more detailed exploration of platforms like Mastodon, Blue Sky, Overcast,

Guilded, XenForo, and more! We also announce a shift in our release schedule, moving from weekly episodes to a biweekly format, which offers us more time to curate and produce even better content. We also share our plans to incorporate a series of interviews with experts in the independent creator space, and how we will integrate them into the show. Finally, we introduce a minimal, easy-on-the-eye visual aesthetic for our video content. All these changes are made with you, our listener/viewer, in mind. Our ethos remains: to help you explore the wealth of alternative platforms while arming you with valuable insights to grow as an independent creator!

Welcome back to the Independent Creator Podcast! I'm overjoyed to share my latest episode with you, where I peel back the layers of my journey as a content creator. Starting from my humble beginnings as a Twitch live streamer under 'Schrodember', I dive into my unexpected transition into Mixer, my eventual progression into the co-host role for Zero Point Report, and how my passion for indie games resulted in 'The First Two Hours' video series.

Throughout the episode, I pull from my experiences and offer perspectives on different streaming platforms. Whether it's the nostalgia-filled rides on Twitch, the rise and fall journey with Mixer, or my mixed experiences with Trovo, Glimish, Share Play, and Live Space, every stage has shaped my creation path in its unique way.

This episode, however, isn't just filled with storytime and platform analyses. I also go tactical in it, sharing my favorite software tools, how I love the combined functionalities of Ecamm, and why OBS stands tall despite adversities. While I discuss the fantastic built-in tools that these platforms offer, I also touch on the Streamlabs Desktop and why it might not be the best fit for everyone.

Looking ahead, there's a ton of fun stuff coming to the channel! Yes, there'll be more specific instructional content, more live interactions with all of you, and continued sharing of my streaming schedule (every Tuesday at 9:30 p.m. Eastern). Your feedback keeps the channel buzzing, so send in your questions, ideas, or suggestions for streaming encoders, and let's explore this exciting world together!

So, dive in, tune up the volume, and join me as we explore the world of streaming and podcasting. Enjoy the ride, folks! And remember, every like, share, and subscribe goes a long way in supporting the channel. Thank you!

In this episode of my Independent Creator Podcast, I dive deep into chatbots - what they are, why streamers use them, and the different types available. I explain the key differences between locally installed vs cloud-based bots and demonstrate features of popular options like BeepBot, MixItUp, and Aitum. I provide an overview of what chatbots can do, from commands and channel points to automation and integrations with services like Discord. I also discuss considerations for choosing a bot like cost, features, and platform support. Don't miss this in-depth look at an essential tool for live streamers. Stay tuned for a live Q&A with me and other creators after the episode. Whether you're just starting out or growing your community, you'll learn something new to take your streams to the next level. Thanks for tuning in - see you next week!

In this episode of the Independent Creator Podcast, I dive into some alternative monetization options beyond just Twitch subscriptions. We'll explore platforms like StreamLoots, Ko-Fi, and FourthWall that offer streamers a bigger cut of earnings.

I'll outline how each one works, including the percentage you get to keep compared to Twitch's 50% sub-cut. I also share tips for integrating these services into your streams through alerts and promotions.

But is there such a thing as too much monetization? As your host, I give my perspective on how to promote alternatives without being annoying. Overall, my goal with this discussion is to provide genuinely helpful information for any content creator looking to expand their business.

Be sure to check out future episodes where I explore additional topics

to help support your success as an independent streamer or creator. For

ongoing learning resources, you can also visit my website at

thisindiecreator.com. I hope you find value in this podcast and wish you

the best in your content journey.