The episode provides an insightful recap of the recent PodFest event, a significant gathering in the podcasting industry, characterized by its inclusive atmosphere and focus on community building. Mr. Mark and co-host Chris delve into the origins of PodFest, tracing its inception back to grassroots meetups aimed at supporting podcasters in their journey. Through their dialogue, they reveal how PodFest has grown organically, driven by the collective needs of its attendees, resulting in a unique event that is both educational and supportive. Chris shares anecdotes from the event, illustrating the relationships that have formed over the years and the nurturing environment that PodFest fosters. The discussion transitions to the evolving landscape of podcasting, with both hosts reflecting on the challenges and opportunities faced by indie creators. They emphasize the significance of networking and collaboration in the industry, noting how PodFest serves as a hub for podcasters of all levels to connect and share experiences. The hosts highlight specific sessions and interactions from PodFest, showcasing the diverse range of content and learning opportunities available to attendees. They convey a sense of optimism about the future of podcasting, underlining the role of events like PodFest in shaping the industry and supporting the next generation of creators. In concluding remarks, Mark and Chris reiterate their commitment to fostering a spirit of inclusivity and support within the podcasting community. They invite listeners to engage with PodFest and consider attending future events, emphasizing the value of being part of a community that celebrates creativity and collaboration in podcasting. The episode serves as a compelling testament to the power of community in the podcasting realm, encouraging listeners to take part in this vibrant ecosystem. In & Around Podcasting is a podcast industry podcast started by Mark Asquith and Danny Brown and now hosted by Elsie Escobar and Rob Walch, continuing its mission as an industry show that belongs to the whole community. If you enjoy the show, we'd love for you to leave us a rating or review on your favourite podcast app! You can also drop us a tip at https://www.inandaroundpodcasting.com/support, too! If you're an independent creator who would like to co-host with us, please let us know via Twitter and we'll get you booked! Please tell your friends that the show is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube, plus wherever else they may listen to their podcasts. If you'd like your podcast trailer featuring in our "Wave File" segment, submit it via this quick contact form, please. The podcast is also available at In & Around Podcasting. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy