Destin Florida Podcast
Harley Van Hyning has been producing the Destin Florida Podcast for the last six months or so. I just listened to the latest podcast and it was pretty good. He plugged a couple of upcoming events; reported on beach restoration; some new bars and general interest news about the area. I thought he was right on the money.
People like us with a second-home in the area, or people planning vacations, will find the Destin Florida Podcast informative and interesting.
The podcast isn't over-produced but the production is clean and audio quality is very good. I liked Harley's style, too. Harvey didn't sound like a frustrated DJ but did include a song by a local band (Polyester Pimpstrap singing Serve It For Dinner).
I've subscribed to the podcast (iTunes) and will mention it here from time to time and give Harley a link at AmberJackLanding.com.
The podcast website isn't trashed up with a bunch of ads and it sounds like Harvey does this as a labor of love, although he might have plans to monetize the effort and why not.
When I come across something like this, I can't help making New Media/Old Media Comparisons. Why, for example, wouldn't a Destin radio station (or TV station or newspaper) produce a podcast like this? And they might, for all I know... I didn't look. But, if not, what a missed opportunity. Could "professionals" bring the same authenticity and passion to the effort? Maybe.
Haley, if you're reading this... how about a Google Map showing some of the locations you mention in the podcast? And maybe some photos on flickr?






Found this link from the podcast comments. I couldn't agree more. Nice laid back beach vibe and be interesting to see where it goes. I went back and listened to the old episodes and it sounds like he's really making nice progress adding a little more info all the time.
I've heard podcasts from other areas done by the local paper, and they are usually really boring. Too much aimed at locals and/or done by someone who is obviously a writer who can't hold someone's interest with the spoken word.
That or they are obviously sponsor driven and don't really talk about stuff the visitor really wants to know.
I have no problem with advertising on podcasts or websites. I'd rather have someone stick with a great podcast because they are making a few bucks off it. Lots of "podfading" out there where people put out a few great episodes, then just drop off (probably due to time demands... I've heard podcasters talk about how many hours it takes to prep for and produce/edit podcasts).
AmberJack Landing looks like a great place. I envy you! I'm a somewhat regular Destin visitor, but have yet to take the plunge and buy a place!
Posted by: T.C. | 05/25/2007 at 02:24 PM
Thank you very much for the great comments! I greatly appreciate it! To answer your question about google maps, pics, etc. Yes, I am definitely going to be doing the google maps and putting up area photos down the road. Thats all part of my efforts to keep area visitors/homeowners informed about whats happening in the area. Thank you again for listening, and I look forward to producing many more episodes that you will enjoy!
Posted by: Harley | 05/26/2007 at 06:13 PM
Destin Florida. Love it and love this post. Thank you for your post.
Posted by: Tony @ Florida Rentals | 06/30/2008 at 09:26 AM