Each month we interview one of our hosts to learn about their backgrounds, projects, and passions. This month, we're introducing you to Maia Mills-Low, co-host and resident mixologist for Dizzy Channel Original Friendship.
The Interview
What drew you to podcasts, and what advantage do they have for you over other forms of media?
Ever since I was a little kid I enjoyed radio shows. From oldies like Jack Benny to modern hosts like Phil Hendrie I enjoy the creation of characters and the fun and laughter that is spread throughout the audience. Later I started listening to shows like Comedy Bang Bang and Professor Blastoff. These podcasts showed me how conversation with funny people can make you feel like you’re in the room with them. There’s an intimacy in podcasts that isn’t in the radio shows that I love. I want to be able to bring people into the recording studio as it were. Make jokes with us. Enjoy (or hate) what we enjoy (or hate). It’s social, and I’m a social person.
What are some things you’ve learned in your first two years of making podcasts?
Podcasting takes a lot of hard work. It’s a commitment. It’s also an amazing way to share my thoughts with our listeners. Even with craziness there is a structure that I find comforting. I learned that I wouldn’t be able to do this without the great support of Secret Weapon Productions and of course my pod-life partner Adair. We all hold each other up.
"Podcasting takes a lot of hard work. It’s a commitment. It’s also an amazing way to share my thoughts with our listeners. Even with craziness there is a structure that I find comforting."
What is your favorite episode from your podcast and why?
I’m sure everyone would expect me to Camp Rock or Lemonade Mouth. But honestly? I’d have to say the recent podcast of Z-O-M-B-I-E-S! The movie was so surprisingly enjoyable and so was the drink! Also Let It Shine was so much fun to record. I like the episodes where we don’t have high expectations for a movie and we are proven wrong. It’s so fun to be surprised.
What are you working on outside of Secret Weapon Productions?
I’ve been reading a lot of YA. Contemplating new possibilities. In talks with my sister about another podcast.
Do you have any favorite drinks from past episodes of Dizzy Channel Original Friendship?
My favorite cocktails are the ones I got to be creative with. Like the Zombie Mule:
4 oz Ginger beer, 1 1/2 oz Vodka, 1/2 oz Midori, 1/6 oz Lime juice. It’s refreshing and light, a fun twist to a classic drink.
Any new audio projects in the works?
I’m still in the proto planning stages of something. I’ll keep you posted.
What is your favorite podcast not on SWP?
Man that’s a tough one. I’m going to have to give you a few. First, on the suggestion of Dan Crary, I started listening to Bubble made by Maximum Fun. It’s a great serial and easily addictive. Second, Clarksworld Magazine by Clarksworld. It’s a sci-fi story podcast narrated by Kate Baker who has the most soothing voice. A new story each time and it’s thought provoking and fascinating. Finally, How Did This Get Made? By Earwolf. It just cracks me up. Seriously, funny as hell.