Interview with a Deflator

Today I got the chance to sit down with my friend, and partner in crime, Ashley "Starky" Starkweather.  She runs a Podcast called Pop Deflators, which highlights Rock and Metal music, while leaving time to make fun of the world of Pop music - much the same as this blog does. Here are the questions that beg to be answered:

1) Where did the idea for Pop Deflators come from and why?
2) What's the inspiration behind the name?
3) What future goals do you have as a professional/podcaster?
4) Do you see a potential business or career coming from this?

Pop Deflators originated as an assignment in a podcasting class offered at Valley Forge Christian College for the most part, but soon grew into something that no one saw coming. The name itself comes from the premise of the show – to make fun of Pop music and the culture that surrounds it, while highlighting Rock and Metal music.  This seemed to be the only common ground that she and her partner, Joe Carreon, could find, so that’s what it became.

When asked about her future goals with Pop Deflators, Starky admits that the podcast has exceeded her own expectations. She never thought it would get this big, but that doesn’t mean she can’t dream.  The “ultimate goal”, right now, is to be the pit reporter for the 2012 Warped Tour. After that, who knows?  The one thing that comes as the biggest shock after all the concerts and posts on the Facebook page, is the fact that the subscribers, as well as the artists, are all looking up to her as a professional.  She is described as one of the best interviewers an artist can have. She is clear, concise, and relaxed without losing the knowledge factor. However, if you ask her, it’s all for the fun!

On the job

With the rising popularity of the Pop Deflators page, and the growing reputation it was surprising to learn that Starky does not want to make a business of this.  There is no doubt that she loves it, but she feels that she lacks the business skill to run a company properly.  Another big factor in business is money which, being a college student, is in short supply. Admittedly it could become a business someday, but for now Pop Deflators exists as a hobby for a music enthusiast whose passion for music far outweighs many a fan.

You can find the Pop Deflators on Facebook for more fun and “deflation”.