Discover the Magic Behind The Open Booth: Where Every Conversation Finds Its Place
Imagine walking into your favorite restaurant, the hum of conversation filling the air, and there it is—an open booth, waiting just for you. It’s more than just a place to sit; it’s a sanctuary for connection, a stage for stories to unfold. This is the heartbeat of my video podcast, The Open Booth, where every interview is an invitation to explore the extraordinary within the ordinary.
The Inspiration: A Space for Open Conversations
The idea for The Open Booth came from the simple yet profound experience we all share: the joy of finding an open booth in a restaurant. It’s that perfect spot where laughter, deep conversations, and meaningful connections happen. I wanted to recreate that feeling—only this time, with a twist. Instead of sharing a meal, we’re sharing stories, delving into the lives of remarkable individuals in settings that resonate with their journeys.
But there’s more to the story. During a time when I was considering starting a podcast, I was working part-time at a local Chick-fil-A. As luck would have it, they were closing for renovations. I seized the moment and asked if I could take one of the booths home. They agreed, and that’s how The Open Booth was born. While Chick-fil-A doesn’t have any involvement in the content, their booth now travels with me, serving as the centerpiece for conversations that matter.
Locations That Speak Volumes
Each episode of The Open Booth isn’t just about who’s sitting in the booth—it’s also about where that booth is set up. As a photographer and storyteller, I know that context is everything. The locations I choose are carefully selected to align with the story being told. Whether it’s a peaceful park, a historic site, or a place with personal significance to my guest, every setting adds depth and meaning to the conversation.
Take Episode 1 - The Way Home, for example. In this episode, I had the privilege of interviewing a friend who shared his harrowing experience in Afghanistan. His story of survival during a suicide bombing attack is one of the most powerful narratives I’ve ever had the honor of capturing. The setting, the booth, and the story all came together to create a moment that’s both raw and inspiring.
In Episode 2 - From the Grave, I took the booth to Hollywood Cemetery in Richmond, a location that perfectly complemented the conversation. There, with the city skyline as our backdrop, I interviewed a "Death Doula" who shared profound insights into the end-of-life process. The setting was more than just a backdrop; it was an integral part of the story, bringing a unique depth to the conversation.
Behind the Scenes: The Journey of Production
Creating The Open Booth has been a labor of love, but it hasn’t been without its challenges. Producing high-quality, engaging content on a limited budget is no easy task. From transporting the booth in a 12-passenger van (originally bought for my growing family) to scouting and securing unique locations, every episode requires meticulous planning and execution.
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that sound quality is crucial—maybe even more so than the visuals. It’s those little details that can make or break the viewer’s experience. And while the production process can be daunting, the feedback from my audience has made it all worthwhile. People are not only watching but engaging, asking about new episodes and even suggesting future guests.
Expanding Horizons: What’s Next for The Open Booth
As I continue to grow The Open Booth, my goal is to bring in a wider variety of guests. From everyday heroes to the occasional celebrity, I want to keep the content grounded in real stories of hope and perseverance. My dream guests? The Governor of Virginia, maybe even Donald Trump—but always with an emphasis on the stories that connect us all.
Visibility is key to this project’s success. I’m working hard to expand the reach of The Open Booth through increased publicity and, hopefully, sponsorships in the future. The more people who tune in, the more lives we can touch with these powerful narratives.
Why The Open Booth Matters
This project has been a window into the lives of those around me, revealing their struggles, hopes, and dreams. My role is not just to listen but to help them find clarity and hope through our conversations. I want The Open Booth to be more than just a podcast—I want it to be a platform that brings people into my ecosystem, where they can discover what I offer through both relationships and business.
Photography has always been my passion, and now, through moving images and compelling stories, I’m exploring new ways to inspire and connect. It’s challenging, yes, but it’s also deeply rewarding.
Call to Action: Join the Conversation!
I’m inviting you to be part of this journey. Watch the latest episodes, Episode 1 - The Way Home and Episode 2 - From the Grave, and subscribe to The Open Booth on YouTube. Don’t forget to follow me on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook for behind-the-scenes content, updates on new episodes, and more.
Let’s keep the conversation going—one booth, one story at a time.
