Neat Spinoff Idea, Could Use Tweaks
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“The connection with Back to Work (b2w) is explicit and makes sense. Quit! was even preannounced on b2w, at least as a possibility. Given the fact that b2w covers a lot of ground, such a spinoff can work quite well.
The main issue with this first episode, at least, is that it sounds more like a wrapup of a few of Dan’s b2w tidbits in quite different a format. The mismatch between the content and format occurred at different levels.
The guest/cohost (Shlok Vaidya, for this inaugural episode) could eventually play the equivalent of Dan’s role in b2w. In this first episode, though, that role wasn’t well-established and Shlok had few opportunities to develop an actual viewpoint.
Something similar happened with listener calls. Though we did get an opportunity to hear voices of b2w audience members (a rare treat, in and of itself), those calls mostly served as a way to segue into one of the topics on which Dan apparently wanted to expound. Something similar happens in several call-in shows on traditional radio, where the result can be frustrating though expected. In this case, though, the effect is quite striking as it destroys the illusion that 5by5 listeners matter more than in providing title suggestions and an audience for advertisers.
The mismatch between content and format is also obvious in the structure and flow of this first episode. It’s quite possible for 5by5 hosts to ramble on diverse topics, regardless of their direct relevance to the show’s alleged topic. In this case, however, the “rambling” was too oriented to provide room for new ideas. The result is an exposé which demands a lot from listeners, as several connections need to be reestablished.
As for the topic itself, it can still warrant a full show, especially if a dynamic is built. Dan could serve as an informal consultant who responds to callers with well-calibrated answers about quitting or not quitting an unsatisfying job. Such a show would sound a lot like traditional radio (Dan’s passion) and could probably work if large enough a proportion of 5ny5 “jackals” were to participate. In other words, such a show would rely directly on the realtime aspect to the extent that such a show may not even need to be podcast. I wouldn’t enjoy this personally, but it could work and sounds like something Dan would enjoy doing.
On the other hand, the show could be more of a b2w spinoff, and broaden the set of discussed topics while focusing on a regular format. As some would agree, b2w can be extremely difficult to follow (especially for those who haven’t learnt all the inside jokes and hosts’ mannerisms). A b2w spinoff could be meant for broader consumption. I personally think AAC chapters in the main b2w show would accomplish the same effect (and make for a neat “premium” feature). But the notion remains that a b2w could have a broader appeal.
All in all, Quit! is neither awful nor awesome. It’s in this boring middle of mediocrity, between controversial extremes. It might improve radically by episode 2 or 3. Yet I have doubts that it’ll be tweaked so carefully. After all, it might even be a one-shot deal.”
Enkerli via Apple Podcasts ·
Canada ·
11/24/12
More reviews of Quit
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“A different 5by5 show (Back to Work) first inspired me to "someday" quit my job and pursue my dream. And now, Dan Benjamin has pushed me over the edge. This show is a combination of practical advice, financial prudence/paranoia, and relentless insistence that the freedom and joy of...”Read full review »
ginnielizz via Apple Podcasts ·
United States of America ·
01/02/13
“Started great just like most of the 5by5 stuff, but very quickly each week sounds the same. Dan talks a lot and tells the same stories, for example working in a fast food place. We really don't need to hear it every week Dan.”Read full review »
GrfxGuru via Apple Podcasts ·
United States of America ·
01/20/13
“Brilliant idea for a show: inspiration for finding what it is that fulfils you. Upbeat, engaged and funny.”
whaleshark writes via Apple Podcasts ·
Australia ·
11/24/12
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