Christian Schaaf's Blog + Portfolio

Author: cschaaf933

  • From Script to Sound: Bringing My Podcast to Life

    From Script to Sound: Bringing My Podcast to Life

    Last week was all about planning: brainstorming ideas, writing a script, and finding the perfect background music and sound effects to set the mood. This week, it was time to hit record. After completing the pre-production process, I focused on turning my plan into a polished podcast episode. I edited my script several times, learned how to record clear, high-quality audio, and spent time experimenting in Adobe Audition and Premiere Pro to mix my voice, music, and sound effects together. It was a hands-on, creative process that helped me understand how all the pieces come together to tell a story through sound. Let’s dive into the steps I took this week to make it happen.

    Readings & Writings

    To kick off this week’s project, I started by reading “7 Secrets for Getting Pro-Sounding Vocals on Home Recordings” by Filippo Gaetaini. The article focuses on making high-quality vocal recordings with the tools you already have at home. Gaetaini shares practical tips that go beyond just having the right microphone: he emphasizes creating the right environment and mindset for recording.

    One of the first tips is to get in the zone by setting the right ambience and making sure you feel comfortable while recording. Then, he suggests hacking your bedroom by using everyday items like blankets, curtains, or pillows to reduce echo and create a DIY vocal booth. He also explains how important it is to position your mic and pop filter correctly, keeping the microphone’s diaphragm facing your lips for the clearest sound.

    Another key takeaway is to check your mic levels and let your mic warm up before recording. Gaetaini encourages recording several takes because your best performance might not come until the fifth, or even tenth, try. Finally, he reminds readers to be careful with editing and vocal processing. Too much editing can make a track sound unnatural, so it’s best to experiment until you find what feels right. These reminders made me realize that good audio isn’t just about technology; it’s about patience, practice, and finding a natural rhythm in your voice.

    The second article, “Sound Advice: Editing Audio for Video” by Videomaker, explores how sound editing can elevate a video from average to engaging. The piece highlights how A-roll (the main footage) and B-roll (supplementary footage often used with voiceovers) work together to tell a story. The article also explains technical terms like insert edits, where new video is inserted into the main footage, and L-edits, or split edits, where the audio and video transition at different times for a smoother, more natural feel.

    The article provides a clear process for editing audio in video projects: first import and assemble your main clips, then trim and refine your edit. After that, it’s important to listen carefully for choppy transitions, audio glitches, or uneven volume. If something still doesn’t sound quite right, adding background music can help mask small imperfections and enhance the mood. The article also recommends using post-processing techniques like light compression, limiting, and equalization to “sweeten” the final track.

    Both readings helped me better understand how sound design shapes storytelling through voice, background music, and editing choices. They reinforced how much thought and care go into creating professional-sounding audio, even with simple tools.

    Research to Inform

    To better understand how audio can transform a story, I explored several examples that skillfully combine visuals with music, dialogue, and sound effects. Each example offered inspiration for how I could use sound to enhance my own podcast.

    Coldplay’s “Yellow” Music Video

    The music video for “Yellow” by Coldplay is simple but powerful. It shows lead singer Chris Martin walking alone on a beach in one continuous shot. The scene starts in the dark and slowly brightens as the sun rises, matching the song’s calm and emotional tone. Even though there aren’t many special effects or fast cuts, the soft lighting, the waves in the background, and the natural setting all help create a peaceful and reflective mood. The simplicity of the video makes the viewer focus more on the music and the lyrics.

    The song itself builds slowly, starting with a gentle guitar and quiet vocals. As it goes on, more instruments join in, and the sound grows stronger and more hopeful, just like the sky getting brighter in the video, proving how audio and visuals work together hand-in-hand. The line “Look at the stars, look how they shine for you” feels even more meaningful when paired with the real stars and sunrise on screen. The mix keeps Chris Martin’s voice front and center, while the background music and visuals blend perfectly to create a feeling of warmth, emotion, and sincerity.

    “Welcome to UCLA!” Promotional Video

    The “Welcome to UCLA!” video starts with exciting shots of campus life: students walking to class, hanging out with friends, and quick shots of the school and LA. The video also highlights UCLA’s famous buildings and sunny weather, giving viewers a strong sense of what the campus feels like. In the background, upbeat music plays to match the energy of the visuals. The music is modern and happy, helping to build excitement without overpowering the voices or natural sounds. You can hear small touches like footsteps, laughter, and chatter, which make the video feel alive and real. When students or narrators speak, the music becomes softer so the words are clear and easy to hear.

    As the video continues, the pace of both the visuals and the music picks up. The editing becomes faster, showing more scenes of student activities, labs, and campus events. The background music builds with more instruments and a stronger beat, giving the feeling of movement and pride. Subtle sound effects, like swooshes between clips or cheering crowds, add extra energy to the scenes. The video ends on an inspiring note, inviting viewers to imagine themselves as part of UCLA’s community. Together, the music, sounds, and visuals create an emotional story that makes you feel the excitement and spirit of being a UCLA student.

    Opening Scene of Jurassic Park: 1993

    The opening scene of Jurassic Park is a great example of how sound and visuals can work together to build tension. The scene takes place at night as park workers prepare to move a dangerous dinosaur into its enclosure. The lighting is dark and misty, and we can only see flashes of movement through shadows. The background sounds, including rustling leaves, animal growls, and the sound of metal chains, create an uneasy feeling. You can hear the workers’ voices shouting over the noise, mixed with the heavy breathing of the dinosaur. The sound design makes viewers feel like they are right there, unsure of what might happen next.

    When chaos breaks out, the background music swells dramatically. John Williams’ score rises with deep brass notes and quick percussion, matching the panic on-screen as the dinosaur attacks. The quick camera cuts, bright flashlight beams, and roaring sound effects combine to increase the tension. Even though the dinosaur isn’t shown in full, the powerful mix of sound and visuals makes the scene thrilling and suspenseful. This moment shows how sound can shape the emotion and intensity of the story.

    Through studying these examples, I learned that great sound design isn’t just about filling silence; it’s about shaping emotion, atmosphere, and rhythm. The right mix of sound effects and background music turns a simple recording into something memorable. These takeaways inspired me to think intentionally about how to use sound to bring my podcast to life.

    Create

    Preserve the Peaks Episode 1: Rocky Mountain National Park

    After conducting research and planning my episode, it was finally time to bring Preserve the Peaks to life. Following Filippo Gaetaini’s advice, I started by creating a comfortable recording environment. I wanted to feel relaxed and focused, so I set up a small recording space using blankets to form a sound barrier around my desk. This helped reduce background noise and made my built-in HP Envy x360 microphone sound more professional. Once everything felt right, I hit record.

    The creative process began long before the final take. I revised my script multiple times, reading it out loud to make sure it sounded conversational and natural. I also recorded several practice takes to get comfortable with the pacing and tone. I found a balance between sticking to the script for structure and ad-libbing in certain parts, especially when I talked about my own visit to Rocky Mountain National Park. Mixing the two gave the episode more personality and warmth. And yes, I even wore my Rocky Mountain National Park t-shirt while recording to get in the zone, and it worked!

    When the narration was complete, I moved into sound design and editing. I used a mix of Adobe Audition and Premiere Pro to polish the audio, trim out moments of dead air, adjust volume levels, and rearrange clips where needed. I also experimented with layering different sound elements to make the story come alive. The episode opens with ambient audio of wind and birds to place the listener directly in nature, creating an immersive outdoor atmosphere. I added sound effects like a thunder clap, a drumroll, and an alarm clock buzzing at key moments to emphasize certain transitions and emotions.

    To shape the mood throughout the episode, I used two different background music tracks. For the opening and closing, I chose something cinematic and atmospheric, with a sense of hope and reflection. In the middle section, when I discuss the environmental challenges facing Rocky Mountain National Park, I transitioned to a darker, more intense track to match the tone of the message. This shift helped create contrast and tension, then resolved into optimism as I returned to the hopeful theme at the end, encouraging listeners to take action to protect our parks.

    Overall, recording and editing this podcast was such a rewarding experience. It combined everything I love into one project: storytelling, nature, and design. From setting the ambience and revising the script to layering music and sound effects, each step made me appreciate how powerful audio can be in creating emotion and connection.

  • Creating My Own Podcast

    Creating My Own Podcast

    This week, I explored the process of creating my very own podcast: from developing the concept and planning the structure to learning the ins and outs of sound, scripting, and delivery. Before hitting record, I wanted to understand what makes a podcast engaging and professional. That began with diving into several readings that covered everything from microphone techniques to scriptwriting strategies. Below are my key takeaways and reflections from each piece that helped shape my understanding of podcast creation.

    Readings & Writings

    The Bare Bones: Camera Course for Film and Video – Chapter 8: Sound

    By: Tom Schroeppel

    Sound might not be visible, but it’s one of the most powerful storytelling tools. In this chapter, Schroeppel emphasizes that sound waves are spherical, traveling outward from their source. He compares microphones to our ears, explaining how both detect differences in frequency and amplitude. Frequency determines pitch (measured in Hertz, or Hz), while amplitude determines loudness (measured in decibels, or dB).

    I found it fascinating how Schroeppel described the physics behind sound, like how each 3 dB increase doubles intensity, and how this translates to practical audio work. He also detailed microphone types and pickup patterns, which was extremely helpful as I thought about what equipment I might use for my own recording. Dynamic and electret condenser mics each have their advantages, and their pickup patterns (omnidirectional, cardioid, and supercardioid) determine how sound is captured in different environments.

    What resonated most was his advice on recording clean, separate tracks for dialogue, sound effects, and ambience. Recording 30 seconds of “presence” or background noise after a scene helps create smooth transitions. This reinforced how intentional every sound decision should be, not just for technical quality, but for crafting a listener’s emotional experience.

    “The Art of Creating an Invisible Podcast Episode Script”

    By: Kevin Anderson

    Kevin Anderson’s article reminded me that podcasting is as much about preparation as it is about performance. He encourages creators to script strategically, not word-for-word, but enough to give structure and clarity. The goal is to make your podcast sound natural and unscripted, even if it’s been thoughtfully written.

    Anderson calls this approach the “invisible podcast script.” It’s invisible because it blends seamlessly into the host’s delivery: the listener doesn’t hear the preparation behind the performance. His five reasons for writing such a script stood out to me: it gives structure, ensures flow, builds professionalism, boosts confidence, and saves time in production. I also appreciated his breakdown of key script sections, from the opening “Welcome to” to the closing call to action.

    The takeaway: write the way you speak. Anderson’s emphasis on storytelling, relatability, and authenticity is exactly the tone I want for my podcast.

    “Creating a Great Podcast Script: 3 Methods Top Podcasters Use”

    By: Colin Gray

    Colin Gray expanded on the topic of scripting by breaking it down into three practical methods: the Word-for-Word Script, the Detailed Episode Outline, and the Bullet Point Plan. I liked how he explained that each has trade-offs, from precision and confidence to flexibility and spontaneity.

    For me, the detailed outline approach seems ideal. It allows me to stay on topic while still speaking conversationally. The bullet-point method also intrigued me because of its freedom, but it requires strong improvisation skills. At the end of the day, it’s important to figure out which method works best for you and to practice your script before pressing record.

    Gray’s closing point stuck with me: no matter which format you use, the goal is to make your delivery feel natural and connected. This felt like a recurring theme across all the readings. Podcasting, like good communication, is about making your audience feel part of the conversation.

    “Podcast Taglines, Hooks, & the Power of Words”

    By: Kevin Anderson

    In this piece, Anderson shifts focus to branding and memorability. He highlights how powerful a tagline can be for building a podcast’s identity. A simple, catchy introduction like “Welcome to Steal the Show with Michael Port. This is Michael.” instantly connects with listeners.

    He explains a few formats, including the straightforward tagline, the two-step format, and the bio format, that are all designed to make a podcast recognizable and relatable. What I found particularly helpful was his advice to use “hooks” throughout episodes to keep listeners engaged. These hooks might introduce recurring segments, like “Question of the Month” or “Interview of the Week,” giving structure and familiarity.

    This reading made me think deeply about how I’ll introduce myself and my show. I want something short and memorable: a phrase that instantly reminds listeners what my podcast stands for.

    “Best Podcast Tools of 2025: Make, Market, & Monetise Your Show”

    By: Matthew McLean

    McLean’s article provided a variety of practical resources. He listed tools that simplify the podcasting process, from recording to marketing. Tools like Alitu and EditPoint (iOS app) streamline editing by removing filler words and silences, while Podpage makes building a podcast website effortless.

    I especially liked learning about the Samson Q2U microphone and the Zoom PodTrak P4 recorder, both tools that balance quality with affordability. Tools like Beehiiv for newsletters and the Podcast Host Planner for organization also showed how podcasting extends beyond recording: it’s about planning, branding, and growing a community.

    This article reminded me that podcasting is both an art and a system. Having the right tools can make creativity flow more smoothly and turn ideas into polished episodes.

    “Podcast Presentation Skills | Honing Your Speechcraft”

    By: Robert Cudmore

    Cudmore’s article tied everything together by focusing on delivery. His advice on pace, pitch, and confidence really stood out. He encourages podcasters to speak as if talking to a friend; to let their natural voice come through. I appreciated his reminder to breathe, avoid jargon, and not fear imperfection.

    I also loved his discussion of storytelling structures like the Hero’s Journey, The Mountain, and Start in the Middle. These frameworks help build tension, shape narrative flow, and keep listeners hooked from start to finish. His reminder to include a call to action at the end of each episode felt like the perfect full-circle moment; it’s not just about sharing your message but inspiring your listeners to take the next step.

    Cudmore’s advice made me realize that podcasting is ultimately about connection, speaking with your audience, not at them.

    Research to Inform

    Below are some examples of podcasts and commercials I researched to inspire the creation of my own podcast.

    1.) New Heights with Jason & Travis Kelce: Taylor Swift

    From a structure standpoint, this episode really shows how the Kelce brothers know their audience. It starts with their usual mix of sports talk and brotherly banter, setting that familiar, relaxed tone fans love. Then, bringing in Taylor Swift shifts things to a deeper, more personal story, one that still feels natural but adds a whole new layer of interest. The conversation is funny and loose at times, but it also delivers real substance through her reflections and album reveal. It’s the perfect blend of casual and meaningful.

    What makes it work is authenticity. Jason and Travis stay true to who they are, and that chemistry pulls listeners in while letting Taylor shine in her own way. On top of that, the episode nails the marketing side: teasing the guest beforehand, building excitement, and then turning the live stream into a record-breaking event.

    2.) How to Save a Planet: “Show We Mine the Deep-Sea?”

    This episode dives into one of the trickiest questions in climate science. The hosts ask, should we mine the deep sea for materials that power our batteries? It’s a big topic, but they make it approachable from the very start. Instead of throwing heavy science at listeners, they break things down through storytelling and curiosity. They bring in experts, explore both sides of the debate, and guide the audience through each step like you’re learning together. What really stands out is how they balance serious information with moments of humor and honesty. It feels less like a lecture and more like a thoughtful conversation with a friend who happens to know a lot about the environment.

    The structure keeps the episode easy to follow: start with a question, bring in perspectives, unpack the details, and end with a takeaway. The hosts never sound condescending: they speak with the listener, not at them. That sense of collaboration makes it feel empowering rather than overwhelming. For my podcast, this approach is gold: I can structure the episode around a big question and leave the audience with something they can think about or try themselves. It’s storytelling with purpose, and it makes complex topics feel human.

    3.) Good Hang with Amy Poehler: Debut with Tina Fey

    Amy Poehler kicks off her podcast exactly how you’d expect: with warmth, humor, and a dose of chaos that feels completely real. Having Tina Fey as her first guest sets the tone perfectly. From the first few minutes, it feels like you’ve walked into a coffee meet-up with two longtime friends. They joke, reminisce, and bounce off each other effortlessly, and that chemistry keeps you listening even when the conversation wanders. There’s no forced structure or formal intro; it’s just two funny, smart people talking about life and work in a way that feels unfiltered.

    That relaxed energy is what makes Good Hang so inviting. Amy makes it clear she’s not here to preach or “fix” anyone’s problems. She just wants to hang out and make people laugh. It’s a reminder that not every podcast needs to teach a lesson or follow a rigid outline. Sometimes, the magic is in authenticity and connection.

    Create

    Pre-Production Planning Documents

    When brainstorming ideas for my podcast project, two very different concepts came to mind, and they are both connected to topics I care deeply about but expressed in completely unique ways.

    The first idea, “Preserve the Peaks,” grew out of my previous campaign project about climate change and visitor impact in National Parks. This podcast would continue that mission by exploring how people interact with protected spaces, specifically Rocky Mountain National Park in this episode. I’ve already gathered research and statistics to build a strong call to action, encouraging listeners to follow Leave No Trace principles and take mindful steps to protect the environment when they visit. The biggest challenge will be making sure it sounds natural rather than scripted. I plan to overcome that through practice: recording, listening back, and re-phrasing until it feels like I’m having a genuine conversation with the listener.

    My second idea takes a totally different approach: “The Ballroom Breakdown.” This would be a fun, lighthearted show that recaps and comments on the latest episode of Dancing with the Stars. It’s conversational, cheeky, full of personality, and something that lets me bring my own voice and humor into the mix. While it’s less serious than Preserve the Peaks, it still allows me to build storytelling and audience-engagement skills. I wasn’t completely sure if it fit the project’s criteria, but I wanted to explore it because it reflects another side of my interests: pop culture, performance, and creative commentary. I think this would be a very fun podcast to create and explore further.

    To compare the two, I created mind maps and scripts for each concept, which can be viewed in the planning document linked above. This helped me visualize tone, structure, and content, and gave me clarity on how each could connect with an audience. Even though the topics couldn’t be more different, they both let me practice my voice, structure ideas effectively, and focus on engaging listeners. I’m excited to keep developing one of these into a full podcast episode!

  • Ready, Set, Launch: Bringing My Running Training Tracker to the World

    Ready, Set, Launch: Bringing My Running Training Tracker to the World

    You’re done building your digital product. You’ve poured hours into design, testing, refining, and making it your own. But the job isn’t over yet. Now comes the next challenge: how do you share it with the world so it reaches your audience and makes an impact?

    This week, I shifted from creator to marketer. My goal was to get my Running Training Tracker ready for launch by building my sales page, deciding on a pricing strategy, and crafting a marketing plan to promote it. Let’s dive into what went into this final stretch of the journey.

    Building My Sales Page on Gumroad

    After researching digital product sales platforms like Creative Market, Etsy, and Gumroad, I decided that Gumroad was the perfect home for my Running Training Tracker. Gumroad has a built-in marketplace with a “Fitness and Lifestyle” category and a “Running” subcategory, which is perfect for my target audience. It’s also simple to use and free to join, which made setup quick and easy.

    After I chose Gumroad, I spent time studying successful sales pages to get inspiration for layout and content. I wanted my page to feel inviting, easy to read, and trustworthy. I analyzed other creators’ product pages and noticed that the most effective ones had clear visuals, short descriptions, and structured sections explaining what the product does and who it’s for. Click here to view one of my inspiration sales pages on Gumroad.

    To prepare, I used Canva to design mockups and thumbnails that visually showcase the tracker’s features. I also drafted all copy in Microsoft Word first to make sure it flowed naturally before uploading it into Gumroad.

    When it came time to build my sales page, I organized it into sections that guide the viewer through the product:

    • About the Tracker: A quick summary describing it as a personal, customizable Notion dashboard for runners.
    • Format & Layout: Explains how the tracker works, from the main dashboard to the linked pages for logging runs, adding photos, and tracking gear.
    • How It Works: Step-by-step overview of how to duplicate and start using the template in Notion.
    • FAQs: A section that answers common questions like “Do I need the paid version of Notion?” (You don’t!) and “Can I customize this template?” (Absolutely!)

    You can view the full sales page and explore the tracker here: Running Training Tracker on Gumroad.

    Pricing Strategy: Making It Accessible

    Because this is my first digital product, I wanted to make it affordable and appealing while also reflecting its value. After reviewing prices of similar Notion templates on Gumroad, I decided to set my base price at $5.

    Gumroad also allows creators to turn on a “pay-what-you-want” feature, so I enabled that option with $5 as the suggested price. This gives customers flexibility: they can pay the base price or a little more if they want to support my work.

    This strategy felt right for my first launch. It keeps the tracker accessible for new users, encourages engagement, and lets me test the waters for future pricing decisions.

    Promoting the Launch: My Marketing Strategy

    When my sales page was finalized, I shifted focus to promotion. My goal was to spread awareness across multiple channels to reach as many runners as possible, especially those looking for a personal and customizable training log.

    1. YouTube Video Walkthrough

    I created a video walkthrough using Loom, where I guide viewers through each feature of the tracker. In the video, I also talk about why this tracker stands out from apps like Strava: it’s private, personal, and built for runners who prefer flexibility and reflection.

    You can watch the full walkthrough here: Running Training Tracker Overview.

    2. Email Newsletter Launch

    Next, I created an email newsletter in Constant Contact to announce the product launch. The subject line was tested through an email subject line analyzer for maximum engagement. I included a visual of the tracker at the top, a brief overview of its features, and multiple links to the Gumroad sales page to encourage clicks.

    You can read the full email here: Product Launch Email Newsletter.

    3. Social Media Posts (Facebook & Instagram)

    Finally, I designed and scheduled two Instagram and two Facebook posts featuring visuals from the tracker and captions that highlight its features. Each post includes a call to action directing users to the Gumroad page to purchase the tracker. View all my social media post graphics and captions here.

    To see the full set of assets, check out my Sales Assets & Marketing Report.

    Lessons Learned & Reflections

    This week was all about pulling everything together: creating the sales page, designing promotional content, and preparing for launch. One major takeaway? Never skip the quality audit. Before making my sales page live, I double-checked for spelling errors and tested all links.

    Building and launching a digital product has been an incredible learning experience. From market research and product design to branding and promotion, this process taught me how to take an idea from concept to completion. It’s been a rewarding six-week journey, and this final week felt like crossing the finish line.

    The Running Training Tracker is officially live, and I’m so excited to share it with runners everywhere.

    View it here and start your training journey today: Running Training Tracker on Gumroad.

  • Crossing the Finish Line: Finalizing My Digital Product Build

    Crossing the Finish Line: Finalizing My Digital Product Build

    Are you in the final stretch of building a digital product? Maybe you’re working on refining the last details, deciding where to sell it, or preparing the assets you’ll need to share it with the world. That’s exactly where I found myself this week. After a few weeks of planning, prototyping, and building, my Running Training Tracker in Notion is almost ready for launch. This week was about final checks, thoughtful edits, and preparing for delivery.

    Before I dive in, you can take a look at my weekly production journal where I break down every step I completed, and check out the final version of my Running Training Tracker in Notion. Let’s dive in to the best practices of editing and reviewing your digital product so your target audience falls in love with it when launched.

    Why a Quality Audit Matters

    Building a digital product is exciting, but it’s easy to overlook small details when you’re deep in the process. That’s why I started this week with a quality audit. I went through every page of the tracker to check for spelling errors, formatting issues, and broken links. I tested formulas again to make sure pace calculations worked and verified that all features worked properly.

    It might sound tedious, but these checks make a huge difference. Imagine downloading a template and finding half the links broken or instructions missing. It wouldn’t leave a great impression. A polished product isn’t just about design; it’s about making sure everything functions seamlessly for the user.

    One piece of advice I’d share: don’t rely only on yourself for this step. When you’ve been working on something for weeks, you might miss obvious errors. Having other eyes on your project is incredibly helpful. I asked runners in my community to test the tracker, and their feedback highlighted things I didn’t noticed. For example, they suggested reordering the running log so the most recent run appeared at the top, which instantly made the tracker easier to use.

    Adding the Final Features

    Another big focus was implementing the last suggestions from user testers. The most significant one was a feature to track monthly mileage totals. My first instinct was to build a new table, but after experimenting, I realized I could create a new view within the existing running log. This kept everything in one place and made the layout cleaner.

    I also added small touches that elevate the experience: icons for tables to make the dashboard more visual, expanded sections in the photo wall and gear tracker, and updated instructions to clearly explain how to log times in the correct format. These adjustments may seem minor, but together they make the product feel polished and user-friendly.

    Choosing a Sales Platform

    With the product close to finished, I needed to answer another important question: where should I sell it? After researching several options, I decided on Gumroad. Here’s why:

    • It has a built-in marketplace with categories like Fitness & Health and even a Running subcategory.
    • I saw other Notion running templates already listed there, which means potential buyers are actively browsing.
    • Gumroad makes it easy to package digital products with thumbnails, descriptions, FAQs, and even video embeds.

    To prepare, I started drafting copy for the sales page and editing thumbnails. I want the page to answer key questions: What is the tracker? Who is it for? What’s included? And why should someone choose it over other tools?

    If you’re looking to learn more about how to launch a product on Gumroad, check out this YouTube video breaking down the steps of setting up your sales page.

    Creating Assets for Launch

    Finishing a product is only half the journey. You also need to present it in a way that’s appealing and easy to understand. This week I worked on creating assets that will bring the sales page to life:

    • Mockups: Designed in Canva to show the tracker in action.
    • Sales Page Copy + Video Script: Drafted in Word, covering everything from a compelling opening question to FAQs to a script for a product video walkthrough.
    • Trello Project Management: My updated Trello board that kept me on track and ensured no detail slipped through the cracks.

    These pieces are like the supporting cast to the main product. A great template can only sell if people see its value, and these assets help communicate that clearly.

    Lessons Learned

    This week reminded me of two important truths about building digital products:

    1. Details make the difference. Small edits, like clarifying how to log time or reordering entries, can greatly improve the user experience.
    2. Feedback is gold. Testing with real users is the best way to catch blind spots and discover improvements.

    I also learned that finishing isn’t just about wrapping up the product itself; it’s about packaging it thoughtfully and preparing it for delivery.

    Looking Ahead

    Next week, I’ll be finalizing my Gumroad sales page, recording the video walkthrough, and creating promotional materials. Once those pieces are in place and completed, it’s launch time. I’m excited to take the tracker live and share it with the running community.

    Building a digital product isn’t just about creating something useful. It’s also about refining, testing, packaging, and presenting it in the best light possible. That final push can feel like the toughest part, but it’s also the most rewarding.

    Stay tuned as I share more about the sales page build and, soon, the official launch.

  • From Features to Feedback: Building My Running Training Tracker

    From Features to Feedback: Building My Running Training Tracker

    Are you working on building a digital product? Are you in the middle of your journey, sorting through all the weeds, trying to make sure that your product is functioning while also starting to think about your sales page? If you are, you’ve come to the right place.

    I’m right there with you. This week, I’ll share my progress on creating my first digital product, a Notion Running Training Tracker, with lessons and tips I’ve learned along the way. If you’re working on your own tracker, template, or creative idea, I hope my experience gives you encouragement and ideas for your build.

    Adding New Elements to the Tracker

    This week was all about building out the major features and making the tracker feel more complete.

    One of the biggest updates I made was adding a personal bests (PBs) table to the running log. This way, runners can track their best times for different race distances in the same place where they log their daily runs. Keeping everything together makes the experience smoother and easier to manage.

    I also built out pages for Reflections, a Photo Wall, a Race Day Checklist, and a detailed Instructions guide. Each page uses inline tables with properties like Name, Date, and Notes to keep the setup simple and flexible.

    The Photo Wall might be my favorite addition. It’s a gallery where users can upload pictures from their races or favorite runs, turning the tracker into a digital scrapbook. The Race Day Checklist is another unique piece that I haven’t seen in other trackers. It’s a practical way for runners to reduce stress before races by checking off their essentials.

    After I built new features in the Running Training Tracker, I created Canva mockups of the product and wrote information and instructions for the sales page. Completing these tasks now makes sure that I am ready to go when I finalize the product next week.

    Click here to view my digital product journal, detailing each step I took to build my product this week.

    Hitting Snags and Finding Solutions

    Of course, it hasn’t all been smooth sailing. Building in Notion has been a constant process of trial and error.

    There were times when I read through Notion’s Help articles, felt ready to try something, and then clicked the wrong button or set up a feature incorrectly. Sometimes I had to start over because I wasn’t sure how to undo my mistake. While this was frustrating at first, it’s also what helped me learn.

    Notion is one of those platforms where experimenting is the best way to grow. Each misstep taught me something new. Using resources like Notion’s help article on galleries and their guide to inline tables gave me confidence to keep pushing forward.

    Learning From User Testing

    This week I also ran my first user test. I asked another runner to try out the tracker, and their feedback was very insightful and helpful.

    They loved the Photo Wall, saying it gave the tracker personality and made it feel more personal than other tools they’ve used. They also appreciated the Race Day Checklist, pointing out how easy it is to forget something when you’re rushing around on race morning.

    Their main suggestion was to add a Monthly Overview section so they could compare mileage totals from month to month. I thought this was a great idea and plan to add it in the coming week.

    Takeaways and Lessons

    One of the biggest lessons I learned this week is how important it is to test early and often. First, test your own product to make sure all the links, formulas, and pages work. Then, bring in testers who will approach it with fresh eyes. Even one user test provided valuable insights that will make my tracker stronger.

    I also realized how important it is to proofread and polish. Small things like clear labels and clean mockups can make the difference between a product that feels professional and one that feels rushed.

    And maybe the most important lesson? Patience. Building a digital product is about trial and error. There were moments in Notion where I felt stuck or frustrated, but stepping away, looking at resources, and trying again always brought me closer to a solution.

    Wrapping Up This Week

    At this point, I’d say my Running Training Tracker is about 85 percent complete. I’ve got the major features in place and a structure that feels organized and user-friendly. Next week is all about refining. I’ll be adding the Monthly Overview feature, running more user tests, and preparing my sales page with the mockups and instructions I’ve created.

    If you’re building your own digital product, my advice is simple:

    • Use a project management tool like Trello to stay on track. Click here to view my Trello board.
    • Test, refine, and then test again.
    • Be kind to yourself through the trial and error process.

    Stay tuned as I continue building the Running Training Tracker. The journey continues, and I wish you productivity and creativity as you build your products.

  • From Idea to Action: Building My First Digital Product

    From Idea to Action: Building My First Digital Product

    Have you ever had an idea for something you wanted to create, only to realize you weren’t sure where to begin? That’s exactly how I felt when I started working on my first digital product: a running training tracker. I knew I wanted to create something useful for runners like me, but I also knew it would take planning, patience, and learning new tools along the way. This post is all about the first steps of that journey: the planning stage and the beginning of production.

    Laying the Groundwork with Planning

    Before I opened a single app, I knew I needed a plan. I created a Trello board to break the project into small, actionable tasks spread over three weeks. This helped me avoid feeling overwhelmed and gave me a roadmap to follow. Each task was sized so that I could chip away at the project consistently rather than trying to tackle everything at once.

    I also used Canva to sketch out mockups of the tracker pages. These visual drafts gave me a clearer picture of what I wanted to build before diving into the software itself.

    View my Canva mockups here.

    Choosing the Right Platform

    After researching my options, I decided to build the tracker in Notion. What drew me in was its flexibility: tables, linked databases, and the ability to connect everything in one place. I thought these features would allow me to build something robust while still being user-friendly.

    The catch? I had never used Notion before, so my first week was all about learning.

    Learning the Tools

    To get up to speed, I leaned heavily on tutorials and resources. Here are a few that helped me the most:

    I can’t overstate how important these were. At first, everything felt foreign, but after a few videos and articles, I began to see how the pieces fit together.

    Starting to Build

    When I felt more confident, I opened Notion and began building the Running Log, which is the core element of the tracker. This is where runners can enter their daily workouts, including distance, time, pace, and notes. I also added a section for Running Gear so runners can log which shoes they wore and see how many miles they’ve put on each pair.

    Click here to view the progress I’ve made on my running training tracker in Notion.

    The first 30–40% of the build is now complete. The foundation is there; what’s left are refinements, smaller features, and, eventually, testing with real runners.

    What Worked and What Didn’t

    Some tools felt like second nature. Trello and Canva were smooth sailing since I’ve used them before. Building in Notion was a different story.

    The biggest challenge? Coding formulas in Notion. For example, I wanted the tracker to calculate average pace when users enter their distance and time in “hh:mm:ss” format. It sounds simple, but formatting time in a way that Notion understands is complex. I spent a long time testing formulas, reading threads, and watching tutorials. It was frustrating at times, but I learned to be patient and keep trying different approaches until it worked.

    Another tricky area was linking databases. I set up a system where the Weekly Log connects to the Running Gear database. That way, each shoe automatically adds up the total miles logged. Getting the databases to connect to each other correctly was a learning curve, but when I figured it out, it became a game-changer.

    Reflection

    Looking back, I’m proud of the progress I made this week. Taking time to plan with Trello and mockups in Canva made the actual building phase much smoother. I also proved to myself that I could learn a new platform like Notion with enough patience and persistence.

    Next week, I’ll continue building by adding sections for PRs and Goals, building out the more simple features like the race-day checklist, refining the design, and preparing for user testing. I plan to test the tracker with family members, teammates, and running club friends to gather feedback from runners of all levels. This will help me ensure the tracker is practical, motivating, and accessible for everyone.

    Want to read more about my first week of building this product? Click here to view my production journal.

    Next Steps

    My plan moving forward is simple:

    • Finish building the must-have features of the tracker.
    • Start testing with real users.
    • Refine and brand the product before the final launch.

    This journey is already teaching me so much about building a digital product, but also about staying patient, problem-solving creatively, and breaking down big goals into manageable steps.

    And that’s what building your first digital product is really about: trial and error, showing up, learning as you go, and celebrating small wins along the way.

    Stay tuned as I continue to build the running training tracker.

  • Pitch Perfect: My Journey into Digital Product Pitches

    Pitch Perfect: My Journey into Digital Product Pitches

    Need to pitch your product idea and don’t know where to start? You’ve come to the right place! I recently took on the challenge of researching digital products and then creating a pitch to help decide which idea I should move forward with. If you’re curious about my research process, you can check out my last blog post.

    When it came time to pitch, I had all the same questions you might be thinking: How do I structure my pitch? What makes a pitch effective? How do I condense my research into just a few minutes? Through trial, error, and a lot of practice, I learned a few valuable tips that made the process smoother. Let’s dive in.

    Creating a Presentation

    In the article “How to Successfully Pitch Your Business Idea to Investors,” Caroline Cummings suggests starting with a presentation. A clear and simple pitch deck can keep you on track and highlight the most important points. I took that advice and created a slide deck that walked through my product ideas. It helped me get organized, and that made all the difference.

    I also wrote a script in addition to the slides, and this helped me gather my ideas in a concise way. A script is like your safety net: it makes sure you do not forget any key details while also keeping you from rambling. You want to get to the point quickly, but you also want to be thorough. There are even templates on Canva and Google Slides if you need inspiration. Click here to view my slide deck for reference.

    Structuring the Pitch

    Cummings also stresses the importance of outlining the problem and then offering a compelling solution. That advice was echoed by Pattie Belle Hastings, who provides a simple outline for creating an effective pitch:

    • Problem Statement: What specific problem does this solve?
    • Target Customer: Who exactly needs this solution?
    • Solution Overview: What are you building?
    • Key Features: What are the 3–5 main features of the product?
    • Competitive Advantage: Why will customers choose this over alternatives?
    • Revenue Model: How will you monetize, and what platform will you use?
    • Success Metrics: How will you measure success?

    I used this exact outline, and it kept me focused. It also made my pitch easy to follow for the audience.

    Practice Makes Progress

    The next tip is one that cannot be stressed enough: practice your pitch. I rehearsed my script several times, timing myself to make sure I stayed within my three-minute limit. Practicing helped me simplify my message and cut out anything unnecessary.

    If you are recording your pitch, tools like Loom are a lifesaver. Even if you are presenting live, practicing with a recording tool can help you see how you sound and where you might stumble. Watching yourself back can be uncomfortable, but it is incredibly useful for improving your delivery.

    Check out my product pitch video below.

    The Power of Feedback

    Another big part of the process is feedback. After presenting my pitch, my colleagues shared what they thought about each product. The votes on my three product ideas were split almost evenly, which made the feedback even more valuable.

    For the Running Training Tracker, they said I bring a lot of passion and knowledge to this idea because of my experience as a distance runner. One classmate pointed out, though, that some people might prefer existing apps like Strava instead of a tracker.

    For the Event Kits, which included flyer and social media templates, my classmates agreed there is a strong market for small business owners who do not have a design background. One person suggested making sure the kits stand out by emphasizing what unique value they provide.

    For the Brand Kits, classmates noted that tailoring them to a specific audience, like solopreneurs, coaches, and nonprofit managers, would help them stand out from generic branding templates already on the market.

    My Decision

    It was tough to choose because I feel a personal connection with all three products. The running tracker connects to my passion for running. The flyer and brand kits tie into my professional work in design and communications.

    After thinking it over, I decided to move forward with the Running Training Tracker. I plan to position it as a more personal and customizable tool, different from the social-sharing and data-heavy platforms like Strava. My version will focus on helping runners stay motivated and track progress in a way that feels encouraging and personal rather than overwhelming.

    Key Takeaways

    If you are preparing your own pitch, here are the biggest lessons I learned:

    • Keep it concise and organized.
    • Follow a clear outline: problem, solution, customer, features, revenue, and success metrics.
    • Practice until the message feels natural.
    • Ask for feedback and refine your pitch, even if you think it is already solid.

    Most importantly, remember that pitching is a skill. The more you practice, the better you will get.

    Wrapping Up

    This experience taught me that pitching is not about perfection. It is about clarity, confidence, and connecting with your audience. Whether you are pitching to investors, classmates, or future customers, keep refining your message and believe in the value of your idea.

    I am excited to keep developing my Running Training Tracker and to see how it evolves. Best of luck on your own pitching journey. You’ve done the research, and now it is time to share it with the world. You got this.

  • What I Learned as a Total Newbie to Digital Product Creation

    What I Learned as a Total Newbie to Digital Product Creation

    Have you ever wondered what the world of digital products was all about? Have you felt a mix of excitement, confusion, or even a little overwhelm when thinking about selling something online? Me too. Coming from someone with no prior experience in selling digital products, this was completely new territory for me. I stepped into this research process with curiosity and a healthy dose of nerves, not knowing where to begin or how to stand out in such a busy space. What I found along the way was a fascinating landscape of creativity, strategy, and endless possibilities.

    Let’s start with the basics. What is a digital product? A digital product is anything you can create once and sell repeatedly without the need for physical shipping. Think of templates, online courses, e-books, trackers, or even design bundles. They are scalable, creative, and accessible, which makes them an exciting way for designers, entrepreneurs, and everyday creators to share value with the world.

    Exploring the Marketplaces

    My first step was to explore the marketplaces where people sell their digital products. I looked at popular platforms like Etsy, Gumroad, Creative Market, Payhip, and the Canva Marketplace. I also learned about the growing Notion Marketplace, which has become a go-to place for productivity templates.

    Each platform has its own personality. Etsy is buzzing with creative energy, but it is also saturated. Gumroad is simple and flexible, though you have to do a lot of your own promotion. Creative Market feels polished and professional, but competition is steep. Payhip offers useful tools like upselling and email marketing, though it has less organic traffic. Canva’s Marketplace has a massive built-in audience, but the challenge is standing out because so many templates are already available. The Notion Marketplace impressed me because of its engaged community of users who actively seek functional and customizable tools.

    Looking at all these platforms helped me understand not just what is being sold, but also how people discover products and what makes one listing catch your eye over another.

    Narrowing My Ideas

    At first, my brainstorming list was long. I looked at everything from productivity tools to UX design kits to calendars. Eventually, I realized that my best shot would be to focus on areas where I already have experience and passion. That led me to two categories: design and branding templates and running and training logs.

    Design templates make sense for me because I already create so many flyers, branding materials, and digital designs in my professional role. Running trackers also connect perfectly with my personal life as a long-distance runner who trains daily. Both ideas felt authentic to who I am, which made them more exciting to explore further.

    Learning from Competitors

    To better understand what works and what doesn’t, I studied three digital products in detail: a branding template bundle, event flyer templates, and a digital running journal.

    The branding bundle stood out because it was comprehensive. It included everything you might need for a brand identity, which showed me that people value all-in-one solutions. The event flyer template was clean and adaptable, but I felt it could be more valuable if bundled with matching social media posts or invitations. The running journal was functional and straightforward, but many versions online were plain. I saw an opportunity to create one that was more engaging, with motivational visuals and holistic features like recovery tracking.

    This comparison taught me three big lessons. First, comprehensiveness adds value. Second, adaptable design works but can be even stronger when tailored to a specific niche. Third, functionality is important, but visual appeal and user experience can make a product stand out.

    To view my full analysis and market research report, click here.

    The Ideas I’m Most Excited About

    After conducting research, the one idea that stands out to me is a Running Training Tracker that blends structure with motivation. It would help runners log mileage, track pace, and celebrate milestones, while also looking visually appealing and easy to use.

    What remains unclear is the platform I should use for the tracker. Google Sheets and Excel are widely accessible, Notion offers a strong productivity community, and digital planners work well for journal-style designs. Each has advantages, and my next step is to test which option runners prefer.

    I am also still interested in exploring branding templates. Because I am brand new to this field, I want to keep my options open and conduct more research before finalizing a digital product idea.

    What’s Next

    My research has given me clarity and confidence, even as a complete beginner to digital product creation. I plan to continue researching and start building a prototype of the Running Training Tracker in Google Sheets and/or Notion and sharing it with a small group of runners for feedback.

    This is only the beginning of my journey, but the process has already taught me so much about how digital products succeed, where opportunities exist, and how I can merge my professional design skills with my personal passions. I may be a newbie to digital product creation, but I am excited to keep learning, experimenting, and eventually launching something that helps others in a meaningful way.

  • Lessons From the Peaks: What I Learned Creating a Passion Project

    Lessons From the Peaks: What I Learned Creating a Passion Project

    Getting the chance to do a passion project is a privilege. You get to dive into research on a topic you care about, create work in a medium you choose, and let your creativity lead the way. Your canvas is entirely your own.

    For me, that meant merging two things I care deeply about: national parks and preservation with my love for design. That’s how my campaign, Preserve the Peaks, an educational project about Rocky Mountain National Park that encourages visitors to enjoy the park responsibly, came to life. It has been an exciting journey, and I learned some lessons while working on this project worth sharing.

    Creating Content Takes Time

    If I had to pick one key lesson, it’s this: creating content takes time. More time than you expect. To truly meet your goals, you have to dedicate enough time for every phase: research, planning, production, and post-production.

    If you think something will take five hours, give yourself ten. Projects always demand more than you think. But here’s the good news: when you’re invested in the process, the time doesn’t feel wasted. Even though the work was time-consuming, I enjoyed every step because I believed in the project.

    Keep Track of Everything

    This project was my first time using a project management system, and I chose Trello. It completely changed the way I worked. I tracked every step, from the tasks I completed to the time each one took.

    Not only did this help me stay on schedule, but it also gave me insight into my workflow. Now I know how long it really takes me to research, draft, design, and polish content. That’s knowledge I’ll carry into every future project.

    Be Flexible: Things Will Change

    No matter how well you plan, your final project will almost never look exactly like the idea you started with. And that’s okay.

    At the beginning of Preserve the Peaks, I thought I was going to create only an interactive posters in Genially. Once I explored the platform, I realized I could build something bigger and more interactive: a game where visitors test their knowledge of responsible park practices. That change made the project more fun and more impactful.

    The lesson? Be open to change. Don’t shut down an idea before you’ve explored it. Sometimes those unexpected turns make your project stronger.

    Planning is Your Best Friend

    When life gets busy, it’s hard to carve out big chunks of time for creative work. That’s why planning is so important.

    I broke my project into small, actionable tasks that I could check off, even if I only had fifteen minutes to spare. Over time, those little steps added up to big progress. Trello made this process smooth, but any system that works for you will do the job. The key is having a plan and sticking to it.

    Have Fun

    At the end of the day, the most important part of a passion project is the joy it brings. You have the opportunity to explore an idea that excites you, so lean into it. Embrace each step, let yourself get lost in the creative process, and enjoy the ride.

    To see the full process behind Preserve the Peaks, check out my case study here.

    Final Thoughts

    Whatever project you choose to embark on, embrace it fully. Be open to change, manage your time wisely, plan your steps, and most importantly, have fun with it. Your passion deserves the time and care it takes to bring it to life.

  • Crossing the Finish Line: Tips for Reviewing Your Final Project

    Crossing the Finish Line: Tips for Reviewing Your Final Project

    You’ve put in the hours. You’ve done the research. You’ve designed the deliverables. Now, you’re approaching the finish line of your passion project. But before you hit submit, there’s one last step that can make the difference between “good enough” and “wow.” The review process.

    Whether you’re wrapping up a paper, a presentation, or (in my case) a digital guide for a campaign, taking the time to review your final project is what ensures all of your hard work shines. Let’s talk about some best practices for reviewing your project before submission and how I applied them to my Preserve the Peaks campaign.

    Why Reviewing Matters

    It’s tempting to rush at the end of a project. After all, you’re tired, excited, and looking forward to wrapping it up. However, Kingson S in The Documentation Review Process: A Practical Guide notes that reviewing your work is non-negotiable. It’s how you catch the little details that may trip up your audience and make sure your project feels polished.

    Kingson points out a few areas to check:

    • Quality of the writing: Make sure grammar, spelling, and punctuation are clean.
    • Structure: Is the information organized logically? If you have a table of contents, double-check it matches the sections.
    • Flow of sentences: Do your ideas connect smoothly? Avoid abrupt stops or choppy transitions.
    • Readability: Is your document written at a level that your audience can easily follow? Tools like the Flesch Reading Ease score can help here.

    In short: clarity and consistency are everything.

    My Review Process

    This week, I wrapped up the final step of my passion project: creating a digital PDF guide for Rocky Mountain National Park as part of my Preserve the Peaks campaign. The guide supplements the first two phases of my project: infographics and interactive content created in Genially. It serves as a comprehensive resource on the park’s history, landmarks, climate challenges, and tips for being a responsible visitor.

    When I reviewed my PDF, I focused on:

    • Spelling and grammar checks: A small typo can make a big impact, so I read through each section carefully.
    • Consistency in design: Fonts, headings, and colors needed to feel cohesive, not distracting.
    • Clarity of content: Each paragraph had to feel approachable for a wide audience, written at about an eighth-grade reading level.

    It was worth the effort. The final product feels like something I’d be proud to share with both park visitors and fellow designers.

    If you’re curious about how to plan and structure a PDF project like this, check out my previous post on best practices for creating a digital PDF guide.

    To view my Rocky Mountain National Park PDF guide, click here.

    My Tips Before You Hit Submit

    Here are a few lessons I learned that might help you as you wrap up your own project:

    Slow Down and Review

    Don’t treat the review process like an afterthought. Build it into your timeline so you aren’t scrambling at the last minute.

    Get Another Set of Eyes

    Fresh perspectives matter. Ask a friend, family member, or colleague to look at your project. They’ll spot things you might miss after weeks of work.

    Check Against Your Goals

    Ask yourself: does this project achieve what I set out to do? In my case, the goal was to inform and inspire people to visit Rocky Mountain National Park responsibly. Reviewing with that goal in mind helped me cut out extra fluff and keep the focus clear.

    Look at Both Content and Design

    Good design enhances good content. Make sure your visuals support your message rather than overwhelm it.

    Celebrate Your Hard Work

    Finally, remember to enjoy this stage. When you’ve put in so much effort, reviewing isn’t just about catching errors; it’s about appreciating how far you’ve come.

    The Final Push

    Finishing a project is a lot like finishing a race. You’ve trained, you’ve paced yourself, and now the finish line is in sight. The review process is your sprint to the line. It’s the last bit of effort that ensures your work stands strong.

    When you do finally hit submit, it will be the best feeling knowing you gave your project the attention it deserved from start to finish. So slow down, take the time to review, and trust yourself. You’ve got this.

    Final Thought: Review, review, review. Your future self will thank you.