My Podcasting Startup

Hi, my name is Robbie Hyne and I've dedicated my life to storytelling.

I'm an imaginative, gay, LA-based creative by way of Madison, Wisconsin and Chicago, IL where I used to tell stories in my parent's basement as a kid with a city of Legos. I've lived as a hard-of-hearing individual my whole life, but in recent years have gone through multiple surgeries to thrive without hearing aids. These experiences growing up as a young, queer, hard-of-hearing Midwestern boy (and more) have inspired me to always fight for, be a part of, and share authentic, character-driven stories led by powerful and unique voices.

Over the last few years with the rise of streaming and consolidation of creative control among Film & TV Studios/Tech Companies, I've witnessed so many talented creators struggle to break in, bring their art to life, and sustain themselves financially in Los Angeles. As some of you may know, this has, in part, recently led to an industry-wide strike as the Writers Guild of America works to get a fair deal for all writers across the modern media landscape. While this strike brings its own demands and challenges, it also inspires creatives like me to fight for our passion, work and success. Because of this, I've decided to explore new avenues in my writing and creating, while also working to help others bring their stories, worlds, and characters to life. This has led me to the hope of starting a new podcast venture.

My goal is simple: Build a podcast/audio production unit led by creators, for creators.

With your generosity and support, I believe I can successfully begin this new endeavor with the necessary equipment, supplies and training it takes to support an adaptable, all-in-one, mobile podcasting setup. From there, the creation begins... Everything involved will be put toward helping develop some of my own scripted & unscripted podcasts, supporting and producing with other writers and creatives in bringing their diverse podcasts to life, and as an affordable, easy-to-use, rentable unit to those who need it -- no creative/financial stake or ownership strings attached.

With the looming threat of AI and the WGA strike, I think it is more important than ever to help artists explore and develop their personal visions, while also hopefully creating exciting and accessible content that you will all be able to enjoy! My promise to you is that everything you're willing to donate will be paid forward through this strike and beyond in helping writers and other creatives bring our ideas, stories, characters and worlds to life... That's the greatest way I can think of making a mark right now, and I would be forever grateful for any support along the way.

Right now, I'm hoping to raise $2,500 to start this venture with the essentials:

If I'm lucky enough to raise beyond the starting amount, it will be put toward:

Thank you so much for reading and considering donating to this venture. On a personal note, it means the absolute world to be surrounded by so much love, generosity and support. I'm inspired by each and every one of you.

-- Robbie