Question 1

What is a podcast?

Accepted Answer

A podcast is like a radio show that you can listen to on the internet. Instead of tuning in at a specific time, you can choose when to listen and use a computer, smartphone, or tablet to access it. Podcasts cover a wide range of topics, from storytelling and news to interviews and educational content, and they allow you to enjoy your favorite shows or discover new ones at your own convenience.

Question 2

How long does it take to get the final episode back?

Accepted Answer

After an interview, it takes one month for the episode to be sent back. You will be emailed links to access the audio file. After the links have been shared with you, you have one week to request any changes.

Question 3

How much does one episode cost?

Accepted Answer

Standard 30 minute episodes cost $500. Our basic package costs $220 and leaves you with an unedited recording. Our premium package becomes an hour-long episode and costs $950.

Question 4

What if I don't want the episode to be available to the public?

Accepted Answer

That is no problem! The default is the have episodes posted on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and Audioboom (and other major streaming services), but all you need to do is opt out by emailing hearingourheritage@gmail.com and letting us know that you would like to keep the episode private.

If you opt to have the episode private, you will be sent .mp3 files and will have to manually share those files via email with family and friends.

We do encourage using the podcasting links for ease of sharing and so that the files don't get lost. We have found that 95% of listeners of podcast episodes are family and friends of the interviewee. If you do choose to keep the episodes on streaming sites, you don't need to worry about going viral (;

Question 5

How do you handle sensitive information or topics?

Accepted Answer

Each episode is carefully edited so anything that is not flattering to the interviewee, their family or friends, or anyone else will be removed. If there is anything embarrassing, confidential or untoward, it will not be in the final cut of the episode.

Often interviewees will open up about the struggles of their family members. Those types of things are deleted from the recording.

Our goal is to share the highlights of the life of the interviewee in the most positive light while touching on hardships to show how they overcame them.

Question 6

What kinds of questions are asked during the interview?

Accepted Answer

Before the interview, a preliminary questionnaire will be sent out that has several sample questions. These include questions like "how many kids do you have", "where did you grow up?", "what did you do for work?".

However, the interview is quite conversational and the most common questions during the interview are "can you tell me more about that?", "and what year was that?" etc.

We have found that most people start telling their story and the conversation flows naturally as they tell about the things that matter most to them.

Of course, however, if there are certain topics or questions you would like to have covered, you can request that on the preliminary questionnaire.

Question 7

How is the editing done?

Accepted Answer

Katie Pearse, the interviewee and editor, has a degree in music production with an emphasis in audio editing. She takes the 90 minute (or 2 hour) interview and organizes it into a story with a natural flow and progression.

She creates different sections in the episode usually beginning with childhood, young adulthood, education, work, kids and family, and the later years. Other sections might include hobbies, travel, or religion.

These sections are connected by lovely narration and accompanying music.

Question 8

Is remote recording available?

Accepted Answer

We are happy to announce that it is!

Before the interview, a remote recording kit will be mailed to the home of the interviewee.

The kit includes headphones, a recorder, and an instruction packet. 
It also has a prepaid envelope to return the kit after the interview.

The setup process is very simple and the interview is conducted via Zencastr, a video calling service.

The interviewee will need access to a computer and WIFI. It is highly recommended that someone who can set these things up is present if the interviewee is not comfortable with computers.

Hearing Our Heritage

Personal History Service

For questions or help purchasing, call or text Katie at 208-954-2312

Frequently asked questions