Podcast Spotlight: Pick The Mind

Pick the Mind is one of those guilty-pleasure podcasts reminiscent of the old pulpy TV shows about conspiracy theories, aliens, and monsters. Creator and host, Chet Banks, walks listeners through folklore tales and ghost stories. What’s truly unique about Pick the Mind — especially when compared to other podcasts like Lore — is the delivery and tone of the podcast. Where Lore leans into the noir aspect of the story, Pick the Mind aims to tell a light-hearted and even comical narration.

Discover Pods had the opportunity to catch up with Chet Banks and discuss the podcast, his goals, and the challenges he faces as an indie podcaster. See below for our Q&A.

Listen: Apple Podcasts | Stitcher

Discover Pods: How’d you get into podcasting?

BANKS: Well I was talking with my cousin about it, and I always thought it would be fun to try.

DP: In your own words, why should listeners tune in to Pick The Mind?

BANKS: If they are bored and want a laugh, I would hope I can provide that for them. I also try to talk about a vast variety of topics. I don’t want to be stuck on one subject every episode. I want to provide variety and entertainment. most of all, I hope they laugh.

DP: What are some of the most interesting stories (supernatural or otherwise) you’ve explored on the podcast so far?

BANKS: I enjoyed my aliens, aliens, aliens episode for the supernatural. I also had an episode talking about a few urban legends. Also the Maynard James Keenan episode was fun to do as I also learned alot about him. My episode Ghost Stories was fun too. I felt like that episode was entertaining because I was telling stories from others experiences.

DP: The podcast quality noticeably improves from earlier episodes. What tips or tricks did you learn along the way?

BANKS: I turned up the gain on my microphone and worked on my voice inflection. I tried to be more energetic.

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

BANKS: Growing my audience. I have never had a podcast before, and I have only been doing it for about a month. but it is quite enjoyable.

DP: Where do you want to take your podcast?

BANKS: Hopefully I can make a career out of it one day, then I could quit my job and work full time on new episodes. oh that would be great. 🙂

DP: What other podcasts are you listening to now?

BANKS: Timesuck with Dan Cummins. Sometimes the Joe Rogan Experience also.

DP: Anything else you’d like to add?

BANKS: Nothing at the moment. I just hope people enjoy my work. thank you!