Discover the fascinating origin story of a podcast born from a friendly course name conflict. Listen as the hosts reflect on their journey from web developers to podcasters, tackling challenges in sponsorships and audience engagement. They recount memorable milestones like their first live show and the evolution into video formats. Explore how a partnership with Sentry boosted their creativity and led to the launch of a merchandise store, all with a focus on community engagement and feedback. This is a fun tour through the growth of a beloved media brand!
Wes and Scott's collaboration originated from a course naming conflict, leading to the creation of the Syntax podcast in 2017.
The podcast's early success was bolstered by their existing audiences, attracting important sponsorships like Delicious Brains and FreshBooks.
Over time, Syntax evolved to include diverse formats such as interviews and live shows, enhancing audience engagement and content quality.
Deep dives
The Origin of Syntax
The podcast traces the beginnings of Syntax back to 2015 when the hosts, Wes and Scott, were actively creating web development tutorials. Initially, they met when they noticed they were both offering similarly titled courses on React. Their collaboration began through a mastermind group focused on sharing insights and tips about their respective content creation efforts. This partnership solidified their rapport, leading to the idea of starting a podcast together as a way to continue their engaging discussions.
The Evolution of the Podcast Format
In April 2016, the duo began planning their podcast, laying the foundation for its name and structure while aiming to differentiate it from other tech podcasts. They wanted to create a fun and energetic atmosphere, contrasting the often dry nature of existing shows. Their initial planning included brainstorming episode titles and formats that reflected their enthusiasm and high energy. The podcast ultimately launched in July 2017, featuring a mix of topics and a casual, conversational style.
Growing the Audience and Sponsorships
Their existing audiences from YouTube and other platforms provided a significant boost when they launched the podcast, leading to a favorable reception and early sponsorship opportunities. Notable early sponsors included Delicious Brains and FreshBooks, who recognized the value of marketing to a developer audience. The hosts acknowledged that they were fortunate to have a sizable following right from the start, which enabled them to attract sponsors and build credibility. This support allowed them to focus on producing quality content rather than solely worrying about monetization.
Expanding the Podcast Format
The podcast has evolved over time to include a variety of formats, such as the Hasty Treat episodes for quick topics and the introduction of interviews. They began conducting interviews in 2019 after finding that they received many requests from listeners and industry figures. The addition of live shows and community meetups helped strengthen their connection with fans, showcasing the personal and interactive aspect of the podcast. This flexibility has allowed them to engage their audience while providing diverse content that remains relevant to listeners.
Transition to Sentry and Future Developments
The decision to join Sentry marked a milestone for Syntax, as it provided the hosts with a team to assist in production and marketing, enhancing the show's quality and reach. They aimed to maintain the authenticity of the show while expanding its capabilities, allowing for video content alongside audio podcasts. The collaboration led to a successful transition, including having a dedicated producer to refine the podcast's visual and audio quality. As they continue to develop the brand, they are focused on producing meaningful content that stands out, catering to the needs of their audience.
Wes and Scott talk about the origins of Syntax, sharing how a friendly course name conflict led to a mastermind group, then a podcast, and eventually a full-blown media brand. They also reflect on key milestones, from early episodes and sponsorships to joining Sentry, expanding the team, and what’s next.
