Show overview
Storytelling in a Small Town has been publishing since 2024, and across the 2 years since has built a catalogue of 25 episodes, alongside 2 trailers or bonus episodes. That works out to roughly 10 hours of audio in total. Releases follow a monthly cadence, with the show now in its 2nd season.
Episodes typically run twenty to thirty-five minutes — most land between 22 min and 28 min — and the run-time is fairly consistent across the catalogue. None of the episodes are flagged explicit by the publisher. It is catalogued as a EN-language Business show.
The show is actively publishing — the most recent episode landed 2 months ago, with 5 episodes already out so far this year. The busiest year was 2025, with 12 episodes published. Published by Red Trux.
From the publisher
Your business has a story worth telling—but how do you tell it in a way that actually connects with your customers? Join Trent, Brian, and AJ—three storytelling professionals in the Pacific Northwest—as they help small business owners navigate the world of podcasts, video, social media, and brand storytelling. Whether you're wondering if you need a podcast, trying to figure out what to post on social media, or just want to stand out in a crowded marketplace, this podcast breaks down the strategies and tools you need to amplify your story. Each episode tackles real questions from real business owners: Should my business start a podcast? What does that even involve? How do I use video without breaking the bank? What's the deal with AI, and how can I use it without losing my authentic voice? How do I tell my brand story in a way that actually resonates? What content should I be creating, and where should I share it? You'll get honest, practical advice from professionals who work with businesses just like yours every day. No jargon, no fluff—just actionable insights you can implement immediately to grow your brand, connect with your community, and tell your story better. If you're a small business owner who knows your story matters but isn't sure how to share it effectively, Storytelling in a Small Town is your guide to cutting through the noise and making a real impact. Part of the Snohomish Podcast Network
Latest Episodes
View all 25 episodesS2 Ep 10What We Learned About Storytelling (and What's Next)
It’s the Season 2 finale of Storytelling in a Small Town—and Trent and AJ are back together to recap what this season was really about: helping small business owners tell better stories, build trust, and show up more intentionally in their marketing.They look back on the themes that kept coming up all season, including origin stories, authenticity, choosing the right spokesperson, and letting customers become advocates. They also revisit one of the most talked-about topics: how they’re using AI tools differently (and how those tools can take real work off your plate—like transcripts, show notes, and planning).From there, the conversation shifts into what’s next. Trent shares what he’s building in the off-season—more classes and coaching around podcasting and storytelling—and why that matters in a tighter economy where people are watching their spending but still need to market smart. AJ shares upcoming projects (including commercial work and new creative films), and they tease a Season 3 direction that’s more interactive, more demonstrative, and more community-driven—including guests, listener questions, and new storytelling formats.Plus: Trent gives a quick shoutout to the Snohomish Podcast Network—a growing hub for local voices and local stories. If you’re looking for more community-driven conversations, creative projects, and small-town storytelling, explore the other shows on the network and find a few that fit your interests.Call to action: Listen to the other podcasts on the Snohomish Podcast Network, share your favorite episode of Storytelling in a Small Town, and send in questions or topic ideas you’d love to hear in Season 3.
S2 Ep 9Should You Start a Podcast? (A Small Business Guide Before You Hit Record)
Should you start a podcast for your small business or organization, or is it going to become one more project that never gets off the ground? In this episode of Storytelling in a Small Town, Trent and AJ share a practical, no-fluff guide to starting a podcast the right way by focusing on what matters most before you record your first episode.They break down the question they hear all the time: "Should I do a podcast?" and explain why the answer depends on your podcast goals, marketing, branding, community connection, thought leadership, or building trust with future customers. You'll also hear how podcasting can go far beyond the standard interview format, and how choosing the right style and tone helps your show stand out (especially if you're creating a local podcast).Trent and AJ also cover the real-world planning that helps creators stay consistent: whether you have the time or budget to produce quality, how to choose a release schedule, why recording multiple episodes ahead prevents burnout, and how to promote your podcast so people actually find it on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.If you're researching how to start a podcast, how to market a podcast, or how to use podcasting to grow a business, this episode will help you build a strong foundation, and make your show worth pressing play on.
S2 Ep 8Podcast Guest Strategy for Small Business: Audience, Trust, and What to Ask First
Being a guest on someone else’s podcast can be one of the most effective (and most overlooked) ways to build trust, grow your network, and get your small business in front of the right people—without having to launch a show of your own. In this episode of Storytelling in a Small Town, Trent and AJ break down why guesting works, how to approach it strategically, and what to do so your appearance actually leads to real relationships and future customers.They talk through how to choose the right shows, how to pitch yourself in a way that’s helpful (not salesy), and how to prepare so you sound confident and clear on mic. You’ll also hear practical tips for showing up as a great guest: bringing stories and examples instead of generic talking points, keeping your message simple, and making it easy for listeners to take the next step with you.If you’ve ever wondered how to use podcasts as a marketing channel—especially when time and budget are tight—this episode will help you turn guest appearances into meaningful visibility, credibility, and momentum for your business.
S2 Ep 7DIY Video Editing for Small Business (Simple, Fast, Effective)
In this episode of Storytelling in a Small Town, Trent, Brian, and AJ tackle the part of content creation most small businesses skip: what to do after you hit record.They break down simple DIY editing moves that instantly make your videos feel more professional (without turning you into a full-time editor). You’ll hear practical advice on trimming dead space, avoiding the “millennial pause,” getting better feedback, and deciding when to polish vs. when to just post and learn.They also dig into how music, pacing, captions, and color subtly shape emotion—and why you don’t need to master all of it to start making better content.What You’ll Learn / Big MomentsThe #1 DIY edit everyone should do: Trim the beginning and end so viewers don’t watch you hit record, adjust gear, or fumbleThe “millennial pause” explained: Why millennials tend to hit record… pause… then start talking—and why Gen Z doesn’tTech habits shape content habits: Older tech trained people to “wait for it to catch up,” and it still shows up in our videosOld film rules vs. social rules: Why starting on a black frame (film school) can hurt performance on social mediaSleep on your edit (when it matters): Coming back with fresh eyes helps you catch awkward cuts, framing issues, and timingGet feedback the smart way:Use a small group of trusted “early testers”Ask for the type of feedback you want (sniff test vs. nitpicky final)When to just post it: For short shelf-life social content, audience feedback can be your best teacherAlgorithm reality check: If no one sees it, you won’t get useful feedback—pair content with platform best practicesEditing choices that affect emotion:Music sets tone and pace immediatelyPacing controls how fast information hits the viewerColor temperature and filters can make content feel warm, safe, clinical, or dramaticCaptions are basically mandatory now: Auto-captions are easy—just quick-check spelling (or don’t, if you want “comment bait”)The bigger takeaway: Don’t overthink it—have fun, trust your instincts, and keep experimenting
S2 Ep 6Behind-the-Scenes Content That Builds Trust (and Gets Views)
In this episode of Storytelling in a Small Town, Trent, Brian, and AJ break down why behind-the-scenes (BTS) content is one of the most effective (and easiest) ways for small businesses to build connection, credibility, and curiosity online. They talk about why BTS works psychologically (humans love suspense, learning, and realness), what kinds of BTS moments audiences actually care about, and simple ways to capture it without turning your day into a full production.From quick phone clips and boomerangs to time lapses and “first time trying this” experiments, you’ll walk away with practical ideas you can use immediately, even if you hate being on camera.What You’ll Learn / Big MomentsWhat BTS really means (and why it’s trending): Not the band. Business BTS = behind-the-scenes content that pulls back the curtainWhy BTS builds trust faster than polished ads: It “verifies you’re human” and makes your brand feel realTwo big reasons people watch BTS:Entertainment + suspense (what’s going to happen next?)Learning + curiosity (how is this made? what tools do they use?)BTS vs. process videos: The crew realizes they’re basically the same thing, showing how the work gets doneA surprisingly sticky BTS hook: Watching someone struggle through an unboxing/assembly because you need to see how it endsThe “don’t filter for your audience” reminder: What feels mundane to you can be fascinating to someone who’s never seen your workHow to capture BTS without making it a big ordeal:Quick phone clips, photos, or 3-second boomerangsSet-and-forget phone tripod shotsSimple time lapses that show transformationThe best time lapse rule: Film moments with a clear before/afterblank slate → finished resultFraming tip that helps sales: Shoot wider than you think you needpeople notice the “small” detailsPro tip (AJ): Mix wide shots and tight detail shots to keep BTS videos visually interesting while staying consistentCreators & Guests Brian Harmon - Host AJ Soto - Host Trent DeVerter - Producer
S2 Ep 5How Customer Stories Propel Your Brand: Beyond the Owner’s Voice
In this episode of Storytelling in a Small Town, Trent, Brian, and AJ explore why your customers, employees, and partners might be your most powerful storytellers. They share real examples and practical strategies for leveraging authentic customer experiences, employee advocacy, and even supplier shoutouts to boost your business’s credibility and reach. From creative testimonial ideas to tips for getting people comfortable on camera, this episode will help you harness the voices around you to build trust and grow your brand.What You'll Learn Why customer stories matter: How genuine customer experiences create trust and emotional connectionThe limits of self-promotion: Why others’ words carry more weight than your ownCreative testimonial strategies: Ways to feature customer, employee, and even supplier stories—beyond basic reviewsEmployee and partner advocacy: How staff and partners can be advocates for your brand, and why it’s powerfulRespectful storytelling: The right (and wrong) ways to ask people to share their story, with real-world do’s and don’tsMaking camera-shy people comfortable: Building rapport and using behind-the-scenes footage to get authentic testimonialsRepurposing reviews: Turning written reviews into engaging video or audio contentTech tips for DIY testimonials: Simple audio/video recording tricks for better quality on phonesRespecting your storytellers: Why employee testimonials should be voluntary, on-the-clock, and never forcedFinal takeaway: Letting others tell your story can take your brand to new heights—if you do it with care and authenticity
S2 Ep 4Finding and Telling Your Origin Story: Why It Matters for Your Business
In this episode of Storytelling in a Small Town, Trent, Brian, and AJ break down why every business—no matter how big or small—needs an origin story. They discuss why sharing where you came from helps customers connect with you, how to find your “why” even if you don’t think you have a story, and simple ways to craft and share your journey. You’ll hear practical tips on talking it out, getting feedback from friends and family, and reflecting on the little moments that shaped your path. Whether you’re a solopreneur or leading a team, this episode will help you discover and communicate your unique story.What You'll Learn / Big MomentsWhy your origin story matters: How sharing your beginnings builds trust and connection with customersHow to find your "why": Even if you think your story is boring or ordinary, there are ways to uncover what drives youSimple strategies for crafting your story: Tips like recording yourself, writing it down, and getting feedback from friends, family, or colleaguesTurning small moments into big meaning: Why little lessons—like always carrying a pocket knife—can shape your business identityThe power of outside perspectives: How others can help you see your story more clearly than you can aloneTaking your time: Why reflection and patience lead to a more powerful, authentic origin storyMoving from "what happened" to "what's next": Using your origin story as a springboard for sharing your vision and inviting customers along for the journeyDifferent ways to tell your story: Whether you’re funny, serious, or sentimental, your story should fit your personality and brandHow to ask for help: Why working with storytellers or simply talking things out can unlock your best ideasThe importance of passion and gratitude: How showing what lights you up—and being grateful—makes your story more compelling
S2 Ep 3Why Story Matters More Than Budget: Creating Impactful Content Without Breaking the Bank
Think you need a $15,000 budget to tell your business story effectively? Think again.In this episode of Storytelling in a Small Town, Trent, Brian, and AJ break down why authentic storytelling will always trump production budget—and how small business owners can create compelling content with little to no money.What you'll learn:When to invest big vs. go DIY: Understanding which business moments deserve a Netflix-level production (spoiler: not many) and when your smartphone is all you needThe $15,000 lesson: Why a beautifully cinematic video can still fail if it doesn't tell the right storyZero-budget strategies that work: From candid team moments to heartfelt owner interviews—practical ways to create content that connectsFinding your "why": How asking the right questions can unlock the most powerful stories hiding in your businessThe spokesperson dilemma: Why the face of your company matters more than you think (and it's not just about being pretty)Authenticity over perfection: Why a genuine selfie with a thoughtful caption often outperforms polished ad campaignsBonus: The hosts role-play a real client discovery conversation, showing you exactly how to uncover the stories worth telling in your own business.Whether you're a solopreneur with zero marketing budget or a small business owner wondering if video is worth the investment, this episode proves that your story—not your budget—is what will make customers choose you.Bottom line: It may not cost a dime, but it does deserve your time.
S2 Ep 2AI in Storytelling: Finding the Human Balance
In this engaging conversation, Trent, Brian, and AJ dive deep into the world of artificial intelligence and its impact on storytelling and content creation. From practical business applications to ethical concerns about "AI slop," the hosts share their personal experiences with tools like ChatGPT, Sintra, and Claude.Discover how AI can serve as a creative partner—helping with proposals, transcripts, scheduling, and overcoming executive dysfunction—while learning where the line should be drawn. The team discusses controversial topics like the production house creating 3,000 AI-generated podcasts weekly, Wikipedia-to-podcast conversions, and what it means to maintain authentic human connection in an increasingly automated world.Key Topics:· Practical AI tools for creators and small business owners· The difference between AI assistants and AI agents· Ethical boundaries in AI-generated content· Real-world examples of AI enhancing (and replacing) human creativity· The future of knowledge, connection, and what we value as humansTools Mentioned: ChatGPT, Sintra (AI agents platform), Claude, 11 Labs, Inception Point AIBottom Line: AI is a powerful partner for creators, but the human element—authentic stories, genuine connection, and purposeful content—remains irreplaceable. Be human.
S2 Ep 1Season 2 Premiere: We're Back! Summer Recaps & What's Next
After a six-month hiatus, the Storytelling in a Small Town crew is back and better than ever! Trent, Brian, and AJ reunite to catch up on their incredibly busy summers and share exciting updates about their businesses and creative projects.In this episode, you'll hear about:AJ's transformative trip to Mexico and his nonprofit's massive $75,000 grant win (talk about a 10X scaling event!)Brian's wedding videography marathon—15 weddings in one summer!Trent's launch of the Snohomish Podcast Network, bringing local podcasters together with resources, events, and communityThe new Snohomish Podcast Playground concept: a space for aspiring podcasters to test their ideas before fully committingWhy having backup support as a solo business owner isn't optional—it's essentialPlus, a teaser for what's coming this season: The hosts are diving deep into AI, the evolution of storytelling in the social media age, and why being authentically human is more important than ever in a world drowning in "AI slop."Whether you're a fellow creative, small business owner, or just love hearing about the behind-the-scenes journey of building something meaningful in your community, this episode is your warm welcome back to the conversation.Recorded on International Podcasting Day—because of course it was!
S1 Ep 14Episode 14: Storytelling Recap
All good stories must come to an end (or at least and intermission). Listen as we recap the role Storytelling in a Smalltown has had in our careers and what we see as the future of the podcast as we take a break for the busy summer season. Follow Trent, AJ, and Brian for updates on what projects are going on in their lives:Trent: https://www.redtruxwa.com/AJ: https://www.thesotosphotos.com/Brian: https://www.snohomishfilm.com/
S1 Ep 13Episode 13: To Hire or Not To Hire a Full Time Storyteller
In this episode, we dive deep into the pros and cons of hiring a full-time video content creator for your business. While having an in-house video producer may seem like an attractive option, we explore why outsourcing video content might actually be the smarter move.We break down the benefits of working with specialized freelance creators and agencies who bring expertise, creativity, and flexibility to the table. At the same time, we discuss the increasing value of having a full-time marketing strategist on your team to drive the bigger picture — aligning your video content with your overall brand strategy, managing campaigns, and optimizing ROI.If you're on the fence about whether to hire a full-time video maker or outsource, this episode will give you the insights you need to make a decision that helps your business grow and thrive. Tune in to find out why sometimes, the best investment is not just in more content, but in a strategy that brings it all together.
S1 Ep 12Episode 12: The Power of Sound: Why Audio Matters in Video for Small Businesses
In this episode of Storytelling in a Small Town, we dive into the crucial role that audio plays in creating impactful videos for small businesses. Whether you're creating promotional content, educational material, or social media snippets, sound quality can make or break your message. Join us as we explore why audio isn't just a background element, but a key component in storytelling that enhances your brand’s identity, builds trust, and engages your audience.We’ll also share practical tips for small businesses on how to improve their video audio without breaking the bank. Tune in to learn how investing in good audio can elevate your video content and help you connect with your community in a more powerful way.Key takeaways:How audio influences viewer perception and engagementAffordable tools and tips for improving video sound quality
S1 Ep 11Episode 11: Crush Your Social through Storytelling
Antonia Semanskee, from Crush Your Social, asks her pressing video questions about how to get started in video and why it is important to AJ, Brian, and Trent. From boosting engagement to driving conversions, video has become one of the most effective tools in a marketer’s arsenal. But what makes a video stand out from the crowd? We’ll explore the tangible benefits of high-quality video content, including increased trust, better SEO, and higher retention rates.Plus, if you’re not a video expert, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! Tune in as we share easy, actionable tips to enhance the quality of your videos, even with limited resources. Whether you’re shooting on a smartphone or working with a full production team, you’ll leave this episode with practical advice to make your videos more professional, engaging, and impactful.Don’t miss this episode if you want to Crush Your Social and create videos that truly connect with your audience!
S1 Ep 10Episode 10: Storytelling to Crush Your Social
Learn what type of video is popular for 2025, the other powers of a great Instagram account for your business, no matter the size, and how to lean into the algorithms to make your account shine on this episode with Antonia Semanskee, from Crush Your Social Podcast.
S1 Ep 9Episode 9: Pre-production takes how much time?
Pre-production, or the steps that you take before the first day of filming, is a critical step to creating videos with impact. Join the conversation on what all is considered during pre-production. What all did we miss?
S1 Ep 8Episode 8: Where to Start
Wanting to start creating videos and don't know where to start? This is the podcast to give you inspiration to start that first video project to promote your business. Brian, AJ, and Trent, cover everything from what to consider when planning your video, to simple first video ideas that take no added effort to tell a compelling story.
S1 Ep 7Holiday Short Story: Heart of the Holidays
bonusBrian, Trent, and AJ tackle telling holiday stories, with each member taking time to write and record their own story. Enjoy the stories to get into the holiday spirit. Trent shares his take on what is really the heart of the holidays looks like in Snohomish. Brian - Evergreen Express
S1 Ep 7Holiday Short Story: Evergreen Express
bonusBrian, Trent, and AJ tackle telling holiday stories, with each member taking time to write and record their own story. Enjoy the stories to get into the holiday spirit. Brian takes us on a magical journey on finding home when everything feels like it is falling apart. Trent - Heart of the Holidays
S1 Ep 6Episode 6: Storytelling Magic
What makes the holidays so "magical" and how do you capture it? Why do Hallmark movies make us feel so much during the holiday season? These are the questions that Trent, Brian, and AJ attempt to answer as they breakdown holiday "magic" and tips and tricks to capture your own holiday magic.