Devin is a seasoned Audio Engineer and Founder/CEO of Devenio Podcasts, the go-to solution for podcasters and businesses that are raising the bar for podcasts.
Since 2016 Devenio Podcasts have been helping independent podcasters and fortune 500 companies with everything from their production planning, recording, publishing and podcast marketing.
Q: What would you like to see your team accomplish in 2019?
It’s hard to believe we are on the back half of 2019 already! We are just on the cusp of launching our original podcast series called The Podcast Insider, a look behind the curtain at the secrets of successful podcasters. I’d love to close out the year by building that audience and hopefully help some new podcasters succeed in creating amazing podcast series.
Q: Who is your role model or hero?
This is going to sound really cheesy, but I think it would have to be my dad. He built and operated one of the oldest financial planning companies in New York. I had the opportunity to work with him while in college and not only did I learn how to run a successful business, but he also taught me how to do the right thing in a business world that thrives in the grey area. I’ve never met anyone who cares more about people than he does and he always goes above and beyond for his clients, treating them like family. That’s the culture I strive to cultivate and what I try to do every day.
Q: What is your favorite book?
Professionally – The 4 Hour Work Week. It helped me view my business strategy and processes from a new angle and empowered me to become more efficient and creative. Personally – Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland – Some of the wordplay in that book is genius!
Q: Do you use any specific method or system to run daily operations?
Nothing particular. As mentioned above, The 4 Hour Work Week changed my thinking, but I don’t feel like it’s a one size fits all. I was able to take several great ideas from that book and find creative ways to adapt them to my business strategy, operations, and life in general. I’d highly recommend any business owner to read it at least once!
Q: Why did you choose your present industry at this time?
I’ve been an Audio Engineer for almost 15 years now, and music and audio were my first love. I also happen to be an avid podcast listener. When I started my business back in 2015, it began as an audio production company for businesses and publishers, and we produced audiobooks and audio for motion graphics and digital ads.
Over time, I noticed the growing interest in podcasts and more and more clients were asking about them. Being that most of my clients were new to podcasting and the fact that I’ve listened to so many podcasts that I knew what it took to produce a good one, I was able to provide some much-needed value. And as demand grew, I decided to pivot the company into podcast production full-time. Don’t ever be afraid to adjust your model to find your niche!
Q: What is the best/worst moment you can remember in your career?
I wouldn’t say this was the best moment of my career, but it’s a memory that keeps me motivated. Back when I first started my company, I had taken off work for my birthday. It was a Monday, and instead of going out and celebrating or taking the day to relax, I got up, poured myself some coffee, and sat down to work on some audio for a client. I spent the day working on their project, and at one point, I sat back sipping my coffee and thought to myself “ya know, I could do this for the rest of my life.” It was a moment that felt as if I was where I was supposed to be and on the right path.
Now that may not seem significant, but when things get stressful, and I’m buried in work, I often think back to that moment and the feeling I had. It’s the driving force that keeps me going when things get overwhelming.
Q: Looking back – if you could advise a younger version of yourself to do something different – what would it be?
Don’t wait to follow your dreams. I was very good at talking myself out of things, but ultimately, you need to follow your passions, so don’t waste time thinking about it or finding reasons why you shouldn’t. Just do.
