14 Comments

Well, dammit. Been through this before, Jeffery, and it feels bad the second time, like it did the first.

There is a peculiar thing about podcasts in that longtime listeners can feel like we know the hosts personally, even though we don't, and we can feel entitled to continued episodes, which of course isn't fair or realistic. However... here's the question I have for you: what makes this show either (a) difficult to maintain, or (b) subtract from your output in other projects that you want to be doing? Or, (c) is it some third thing?

I don't want to be dismissive of your resolution to only continue with the "hell yes" things in life, and I think that's a good attitude to have. But I also want to let you know (you, Jeffery, not so much Bill in this particular detail) that I don't have expectations of these episodes. I don't want a song and dance routine from you, I don't need things to feel planned or rehearsed or for the technical quality to be great. I don't even need the episodes to be as long as they typically are (though I like it). I just want what you mentioned: the undeniable chemistry of you and Bill chatting about art and process and all of the good stuff.

I can see how the format and style of the show can eventually burn you out as hosts, because you don't have any recurring, dependable "content." You need photography news in order to have something to talk about. Ibarionex has guests, some other photography podcasts have regular segments, but you guys are freeform and that's just the style of the show. It's fun, but it's also maybe not fully sustainable. I have noticed that the voicemails haven't been acknowledged for some time lately and maybe that was happening due to this second ending being in the works - but the audience interaction could have fueled more conversation without putting as much burden on you two to come up with topics.

I wish you well, and I do hope to listen to more of your longer-form podcast episodes soon. I especially liked the series with Sean. I'm sure you'll have some new and interesting stuff and I'll always be a dedicated listener. It's just, there is a special something about the way you and Bill interact. I'm sure I'll listen to the whole OTP back catalog again sooner or later, but I sure enjoyed the revival.

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Apr 15Liked by Jeffery Saddoris

Unlike many people I really 'know' you so to speak via your Instagram walks and your artwork there so don't know much about OTP. However if it's not working for you then it will show through what you are doing as anything that becomes a chore will shine through ( I mean that respectfully ) eventually. You have to do what's best for you , and I'd love to be one of the people who will continue to see ( and hear ) your journey :)

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Apr 15Liked by Jeffery Saddoris

Can't say I enjoyed it because I am so bummed that OTP is ending. OTP was one of a handful now of podcasts that I enjoyed and the only photography one. Disagree that the buddy-chat is passe. Your friendship with Bill was as important to the listener as what you both talked about, at least to me. Change is tough. Wishing both you and Bill the very best.

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Apr 18Liked by Jeffery Saddoris

Oh man. I’m bummed. Again. Really enjoyed the revival. Best of luck for the future!

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Personal I feel like my “sure… why not”’s have played out a million times better then any “hell yeah” ever has.

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I randomly stumbled across the podcast a month and half ago when I started a new job I can listen to headphones while working. I have been making my way through the podcast from the start and have really enjoyed it as it goes so much further than just a photography or art podcast. I carry a field note book and write down whatever catches my interest while listening. I am Sad to hear it's coming to an end. However I look forward to seeing what you do next.

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