Welcome to another edition of Meet Your Pod Squad! 

Today, we’re talking to Patrice Sikora, a podcast host at ProudMouth. Patrice co-hosts podcasts with our clients and provides coaching along the way to help them amplify their expertise. 

Let’s get to know Patrice…

(Listen to Patrice’s interview with our CRO, Matt Halloran, or keep reading!)

Please describe a day in your life as a podcast host at ProudMouth

A typical day actually starts the day before. That’s when I email scheduled clients to make sure they are still a go for recording their podcast. I will write any intros they need and/or review outlines for the next day.   

In the morning, after walking the dog and a second cup of coffee or hot chocolate, I review any new emails and get ready to record. After recording (usually two to four clients a day), I file everything and check off tasks in Asana. In between, I’m looking ahead to the next day and prepping.

What do you enjoy about working at ProudMouth?

The camaraderie of my co-workers and the comforting knowledge that they will support me if I need help! 

 I also appreciate the chance to talk to so many varied, interesting people who appear on the podcasts. I can constantly learn new things. 

What’s on your desk right now?

A computer, two monitors, an audio mixer, sticky pads with notes, and dog paws (the dog body is in my lap) that I’m typing around.

What’s in your mug right now?

Cold coffee. Yuck.

Which books have made a lasting impact on you? 

I gravitate to sci-fi and fantasy. Isaac Asimov was among my first favorites, but many others have followed. Love fairy tales and will never again read Bram Stoker’s “Dracula” at home alone.

Also, books with a spiritual side: David Michie’s “The Dalai Lama’s Cat” and “Lao Tzu: Tao Te Ching” by Ursula K. Le Guin. 

And let’s not forget “Gates of Fire” by Steven Pressfield or “Lost Horizon”  by James Hilton. 

There are SO many. I love books. I have also written a trilogy myself. 

Which TV shows and movies do you enjoy?

TV shows: “Star Trek: The Next Generation”, “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine,” and “Star Trek: The Original Series.” Also, “Call the Midwife” and “Midnight Diner.”

Movies: “A League of Their Own,” “Brigadoon,” and “Star Wars.”

What’s your most-used emoji? 🤔

Is there an emoji for “whatever”?

Maybe this one: 🙄? Now let’s switch gears! Tell me, what’s the most enjoyable aspect of working with a client?

Getting to know them and feeling them loosen up and open up as time goes on.

What type of client success story excites you? 

When they say they got a new client as a result of their podcast.

What’s your secret to breaking the ice with new podcasters?

Make them laugh. 

In your approach to co-hosting, where do you draw inspiration from?

Abbott and Costello. Sometimes you are the straight man, sometimes not.

What are your thoughts on solo-casting? Is it possible for podcasters to pull off an entertaining and engaging show that includes only one voice? 

It is possible, but not everyone can pull it off. You don’t always need a co-host if you can maintain energy and create charisma. 

These are the clients’ podcasts, and I will guide them through a solo if they insist. Then, I tell them to listen and critique it for me. I have only done this once so far. 

How do you keep your voice sounding energized and clear throughout the day as you record multiple podcasts?

Approach each podcast as a new event. 

Clear my head. 

Be positive about the client and the process.

Laugh. 

Have fun. 

And remember the glass of wine or beer waiting for me at the end of the day!