PodcastOne | One For Podcasts - Interview with the developer of a fantastic app

Did you have any prior development or coding experience?

I know just enough about development and coding to make me a danger to myself and those around me so we partnered Nox Solutions and TopFan as they have the expertise in both audio and mobile apps.

What was the most challenging aspect of developing mobile app?

The most challenging aspect was integrating features which are somewhat common in the digital arena, but have never been integrated into a podcast app before. We wanted to create a listening experience on-the-go with the ability to interact with the content and the host while the podcast was playing. We also wanted to create a singular feed where the podcast would anchor a flow that included Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and other social media communication features to increase active engagement with the content.

_{Jim Ballas}

Jim Ballas’ experience in audio, technology and advertising served as the foundation to build PodcastOne’s traffic and sales operation processes from the ground up, upon joining the company in 2013. The sales department has grown to encompass offices in four major cities, and operations have evolved accordingly, resulting in improved efficiencies for expanded programming and support of revenue growth. Additionally, Ballas has led the charge in software and technology development to streamline and scale business at the audio on-demand leader. Prior to joining PodcastOne, Ballas managed a sales operational team at radio syndicator, Premiere Networks. He has a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Pennsylvania.

Name a few of your favorite apps and reason you love them.

Uber is absolutely one of my favorite apps, and one of the most useful apps I have installed. I love giving greater control to everyday users, and crowdsourcing rides is a brilliant concept. As an Android user, BaconReader is my go-to for Reddit – it makes it easy to read, subscribe to and search for the content I like. Lastly, Amazon Music - as a prime subscriber, having both my own library and the prime music library at my fingertips makes it very easy to keep up with my favorite music (though to be honest, I’ve probably just streamed the Hamilton soundtrack 500 times).

How long have you been working on this app?

In the fall of 2016, we took a deep dive into the landscape of audio apps and began to concept what features and functionality we would want in our app. We began actual production of the app with TopFan in January of 2017.

What need of the user did you have in mind when developing this app?

We really wanted to increase the ability for a user to connect with, and interact with, their favorite podcast hosts.

In what way do you think your app is better than similar apps on the market? Please describe in detail what innovation you think you bring and what you are proud of in your app.

There are things we’re doing in this app that no one else in the space does. The first is that we have one of the largest repositories of Virtual Reality content available in our app. Many of our shows are recording their episodes in VR, so you can not only listen, but also watch as if you’re in the studio! Secondly, we have integrated our own micro-social network so fans can comment on episodes, talk to one another in the app, and talk with our hosts, which is building the podcast community further with even deeper connections. Lastly, we have initiated and are working on virtual currency in the app, where you can get rewards for listening and interacting, and use them to access additional content, promotions and even get items from PodcastOne and our hosts. No other podcast app is gamified, so this is a very innovative step for the industry.

What are your future plans and expected features of the coming new versions of this app?

We have plans for a steady stream of new feature releases over the next year, but one of first areas of focus will be on live content. First, we will launch live chats with hosts, so users can interact in real-time directly via the app. We will premiere this feature at the end of October with Kaitlyn Bristowe, and will then be expanding that to more of our hosts. In addition, we are also developing live streaming capabilities for virtual reality video, so users can watch as it’s being recorded, and interact live by asking questions/reacting to what’s on the screen.

Assuming new users of your app are reading this page. What do you want to ask them to do (contact you about X, Share the app, etc.)?

Most importantly, tell us what you like and want more of, and what we can do better ([email protected]). We view our app as a living technology that needs to continuously evolve to meet the changing priorities of our listeners. We love to hear your feedback on how we can make this app a better user experience. And be sure to share with your friends!