Podcast Spotlight: Counter Programming with Shira and Arielle

Launched during the COVID-19 pandemic, Counter Programming with Shira and Arielle is here to distract you from the constant barrage of anxiety-inducing coronavirus content. They host a fun-loving show that can be hard to find during times like these. Shira and Arielle are former coworkers turned genuine friends who both have anxiety and want to connect, even while living in different states. Listening to their conversations takes you back to hanging out with your best friends, which is especially soothing during the pandemic. They share fun facts and play quiz games together, with each episode exploring a different topic.

Shira and Arielle began the podcast by covering many types of countertops, including marble, granite, and steel, and have since moved to covering Count Dracula, counterfeit money, and more. Episodes come out once a week, so you never have to wait long for your counter programming. This show is perfect for those who appreciate delightful new facts and a distraction from the pandemic.  

We were fortunate to talk with Nissenblatt about the podcast, how they differentiate from other podcasts, and their future plans in podcasting. See below for our full Q&A.

Listen: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Podchaser

DISCOVER PODS: How’d you get into podcasting?

NISSENBLATT: I’ve been working in the podcast space for 3.5 years. I run a podcast recommendation newsletter called EarBuds Podcast Collective. I also work for a podcast app called Castbox. Before Castbox, I managed a podcast studio in Los Angeles. I’ve been around podcasters for a while, both in advising and consulting roles, and in event planning; I love to bring podcasters together to talk about creating with the larger community. In October, I created a podcast to go along with my newsletter. It’s essentially an audio companion to the newsletter. When the pandemic started, I had the idea for this current podcast and immediately called my friend Shira, who’s a comedian. She said, “you know… you’re a nut.” And then she said yes.

DISCOVER PODS: In your own words, why should listeners tune in to Counter Programming with Shira and Arielle?

NISSENBLATT: Counter Programming is a combination of comedy and information. We think of it as a cross between Stuff You Should Know and Stuff Mom Never Told You. We are honest and we try out jokes that sometimes don’t land, and then we make fun of ourselves for it. Most importantly, it’s a well-produced podcast that sticks to the goals that we set out to complete at the top of the show. You get a full lesson in the topic that you came for each time.

DISCOVER PODS: What kind of feedback have you heard from your listeners?

NISSENBLATT: Many listeners are surprised that we chose a seemingly niche podcast idea and have successfully run with it. We’ve learned that people are going on extra walks in order to finish the episodes (because no one is commuting). We are also learning that listeners are finding some parts of the show funnier than we had intended. I’m personally learning that my dry humor is drier than I thought. Shira, my co-host, seems to be transitioning well from a stand up comedian to a sit-down.

DISCOVER PODS: Describe your recording set up? What equipment are you using?

NISSENBLATT: We record remotely. Shira is in NY and I am in Los Angeles. I use a Yeti mic, plugged into my computer. We record via Squadcast. Shira records with her Apple headphones. In order to soundproof the room, I have some noise canceling equipment. We work the rest out in post-production with the help of our incredibly talented post-production engineer, Daniel Tureck.

DISCOVER PODS: What’s the biggest challenge you face as an indie podcaster?

NISSENBLATT: Finding the right groove with social media. For this podcast, we purposely decided not to promote via Twitter. We are only using Instagram because we find that social media doesn’t covert so easily to listeners. We are only using Instagram to stay in touch with our already-existing listeners. Posting relevant and engaging content can be a challenge.

DISCOVER PODS: Where do you want to take your podcast?

NISSENBLATT: TO THE GLOBAL STAGE! But really, we want to reach a wide audience with our content because we believe that it offers just the right amount of levity during these strange times. We acknowledge the existence of the pandemic but then give listeners a chance to take their minds off of it for 30 minutes. We also want to continue attracting big name interviewees to the show.

DISCOVER PODS: What other podcasts are you listening to now?

NISSENBLATT: The Daily Zeitgeist, Dead Eyes, In the Dark, Beach too Sandy, Water too Wet, Scam Goddess, Telescope, Fake Doctors, Real Friends, It’s Been a Minute with Sam Sanders, Lexicon Valley, and Ologies. Honestly, I’m listening to more too but I feel like that list is super long. I listen to podcasts for a living!

DISCOVER PODS: Anything else you’d like to add?

NISSENBLATT: Thank you for the opportunity!