Offer captivating discussions, where diverse voices are seen and heard.
Offer captivating discussions, where diverse voices are seen and heard.
"That we are all alike and that when we truly sit and take time for each other and listen and have those hard conversations, we can learn from each other."
Today Melissa Vera, the creator of Chats from the Blog Cabin shares her story of Society & Culture podcast.
► Tell us about you and your podcast
Melissa Vera, a native of the picturesque landscapes of North Carolina, embodies the spirit of southern charm and resilience. Melissa's journey is deeply rooted in her southern roots. With a passion for frugality, community engagement, and the art of authentic storytelling, she has carved a unique path in the digital realm. As the creative force behind the "Adventures of Frugal Mom" blog and the captivating host of the "Chats from the Blog Cabin" podcast- which, by the way, started as a result of a mindset challenge when she was asked to go live/ Melissa's impact extends beyond her birthplace. Her commitment to fostering genuine connections and empowering others is evident in her philanthropic endeavors, particularly in initiatives focused on financial literacy, education, and mental health awareness. Whether navigating the charming landscapes of North Carolina or the digital landscape of the internet, Melissa Vera is a dynamic force, inspiring others with her authenticity, compassion, and southern grace.
Chats from the Blog Cabin is about and for anyone with a story. It is only through thoughtful conversations that we truly learn about each other's experiences and truly have a heart for people.
► Why & how did you start this podcast?
Honestly, I'm not really sure why. Back in 2018, when I came up with the concept of the Blog Cabin- an office outside of the home, I never thought I would be hosting a weekly podcast from there. But then COVID hit, and I was looking for something to do, and I was in a mindset challenge. In that challenge, one of the objectives was to go live on social media and talk about one of our core values. My core value is relationships, but I didn't want to go live by myself, so I grabbed a friend, and we went live talking about friendship. The interview bug bit, and then it slowly evolved into podcasting.
I started my podcast in 2020 during covid. It actually took me a while to post an episode in podcast form because I didn't know I could do that.
► How'd you find the time and funding to do this podcast?
I usually post one episode a week. I try not to edit the podcast too much because I want the conversation to be like you are sitting down with a friend with your favorite beverage, chatting about life.
My day job is that I am a writer and owner of Blog Cabin Enterprises, which now encompasses my blog Adventures of Frugal Mom, the DIY Show I host on Youtube, the podcast, as well as teaching others to blog.
Hard to say how much I actually spend but I am always looking for new equipment and opportunities. And I pretty much fund it myself.
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► What do you gain from podcasting?
I have, in the past, taken some sponsorships, but it is not at the point where it has made a difference.
I always look for nonprofits to team up with to offer space where people can donate.
Ask people and guests.
I have learned so much from the guests I have interviewed and I have been blessed with some amazing guests who have in turn become friends in real life.
► How does your podcasting process look like?
I am on the list for multiple PR companies so most of the time I find guests that way, but if there is someone I really want I go after them.
I have talking points that I send out that are unique to each guest, and if they have written a book, 99% of the time I have read the book before the interview.
I interview people using StreamYard. I love it as I get personal with each episode, and I get to throw up a commercial as well. I also love that I have the ability to pause the interview recording if there is some technical glitch.
► How do you market your show?
Google, my blog, social media and from guests being on the show.
► What advice would you share with aspiring (new) podcasters?
That we are all alike and that when we truly sit and take time for each other and listen and have those hard conversations, we can learn from each other.
► Where can we learn more about you & your podcasts?
My Blog: https://adventuresfrugalmom.com
My Youtube Channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOhpY-uzzVBH1Ii08ypuxWA
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/frugalmom/
My Coaching Business: https://themelissavera.com/
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