How a Random Video Call Turned My World Upside Down

Today's article features insights from Keith Keller, a Global Social Audio Specialist with a knack for connecting with people worldwide.

A Simple Audio Event That Changed Everything

Let me start with a story that’s pretty close to my heart. Picture this: I’m on LinkedIn, just another day, and there’s this audio event happening. I decide to pop in because, well, it’s LinkedIn and audio events are cool. The host, Keith, who’s got a ton of experience in radio, is talking about this struggles with LinkedIn’s platform. He’s having issues and, honestly, it felt like he was speaking my language.

Now, I’m not just a passive listener. I raised my hand to chime in, explaining how video conferencing can be a pain in the neck. Turns out, Keith was interested. We started chatting, and the next thing I knew, we had a pretty awesome synergy going on. It was like meeting a long-lost friend who totally gets where you’re coming from.

From Radio to Social Audio: A Bumpy Ride

Let’s rewind a bit. Back in 2020,during the pandemic clock downs, Melbourne was a ghost town. We could only leave the house for an hour a day. Naturally, I dived into live streaming. I set up a YouTube channel and gave it my all, but engagement was flat, and managing everything alone was exhausting. I needed a change.

Then, in October 2021, someone suggested I try Twitter Spaces. I’d never used Clubhouse because I had an Android, and I wasn’t about to buy an iPhone just for that. Twitter Spaces was a game-changer for me. No cameras, no screens, just pure conversation. It feltlike a breath of fresh air. I could focus on the conversation without worrying about looking professional on camera.

But, as it goes, things change. A billionaire bought my favorite platform, and it wasn’t the same anymore. So, I tried LinkedIn. It was decent for a while, but eventually, it started failing me too.

The LinkedIn Drama

In January 2023, LinkedIn decided to restrict my account, claiming I used it too much. I got a long email saying I must be a robot because no human could be that active. I thought, “Really?” I’m just a guy with a computer, trying to make things work. They cut me off during alive show with300 people watching. I couldn’t even message my guests to apologize. It was amess.

During that four-day ban, I found GoBrunch. It felt like a blessing in disguise. It looked like a radio station and had all the features I wanted. I could manage everything behind the scenes and still engage with people in a way that felt natural. It was like finding a hidden gem after a

rough patch.

From LinkedIn to GoBrunch: A New Home

Eventually, I started using GoBrunch for my shows. It was a fantastic platform where I could truly engage with my audience. My Sunday nights became special, thanks to Keith’s shows and the after-parties we had. We even had an unforgettable party in Kenar’s room. It was a blast, and I even celebrated my birthday by throwing a party on the platform.

Despite the upheaval, I realized I had made a smart move by not relying solely on social media. I created a hashtag in 2023 called “What’s Your Plan B?” to encourage people to think about alternatives if their primary platforms failed them. It was a lesson learned the hard way.

Radio Beginnings and Evolution

I’ve been into radio since I was 16. My best friend’s dad had a local radio show, and I was fascinated. I started volunteering and eventually did my own shows. It was a simple setup at first, but it sparked a passion in me.

Moving to Melbourne in 1984, I worked at a local radio station while going to radio school. It was tough, and I even did grave yard shifts, riding my bike to the station at night. It wasn’t glamorous, but it was what I loved. I then got into Blog Talk Radio in 2008,and that was a blast. I did a weekly show for two years, and it felt great to connect with people worldwide.

The Podcast Era and Beyond

As podcasting grew, I saw it as anew frontier. Back then, people didn’t quite get it, but now, everyone’s got a podcast. I think it’s reached a saturation point, but that doesn’t mean there’s no room for fresh voices. It’s all about finding your niche and connecting with your audience.

I personally prefer live audio events because they allow real-time interaction. Podcasts are great, but they lack the immediacy of live conversations. I like being part of the discussion rather than just listening.

The Future of Audio and Live Events

Looking ahead, I’m excited about the possibilities. I’ve set up five studios on GoBrunch, and my goal is to keep the shows running 24/7.It’s about creating a space where people can come and share their voices, whether they’re in Melbourne, North America, or anywhere in between.

The inspiration to teach and share what I’ve learned is something I’m exploring. It’s about passing on the knowledge and helping others find their path in the audio world.

Wrapping Up

So, that’s my journey. From navigating LinkedIn’s quirks to discovering GoBrunch, it’s been a wild ride. But through it all, I’ve learned to adapt and find new ways to connect with people. Whether it’s through live audio events or other platforms, the key is staying engaged and finding what works best for you.

About the Contributor: Keith Keller, Global Social Audio Specialist. Connect on LinkedIn and visit KeithKeller.com.au.

You can get started at GoBrunch.com