The Guide to LIVE Streaming

#46 Were Cavemen the First LIVE Streamers?

In this conversation, Tara and Ben explore live streaming as a dominant form of entertainment, particularly with the evolution of entertainment from ancient interactive forms to recent more modern passive consumption then back to more interactivity with live. The conversation delves into cultural roots that drive our desire for interactive entertainment.

#45 Avoiding TikTok LIVE Shadow Bans: 10 Things You Have to Know

Host's Tara Stevens and Ben Baldwin siscusses the intricacies of live streaming, focusing on the importance of understanding the craft, the concept of shadow banning, and the various factors that can limit a streamer's reach.  Chapters 00:00 The Craft of Streaming and Support 05:40 Understanding Shadow Bans 10:01 Factors Limiting Your Reach 20:22 Top Violations Causing Limitations 34:23 Navigating the Streaming Landscape

#44 Women Leading the Future of LIVE Streaming: She’s LIVE & In Charge

This week on the pod host Tara Stevens, CEO of blu shift creative, is joined by Sofia Poblano, ex-Head of Key Accounts at a TikTok LIVE UK and LIVE consultant, and ps.cirina, a LIVE pro, streaming expert, and operations officer at blu. Together, they explore the transformative power of live streaming, particularly for women. The discussion delves into personal journeys, the challenges faced in the industry, and the critical role of community support. They highlight the importance of cultural understanding in live streaming, strategies to prevent burnout, and the significance of self-love and authenticity. The guests also examine how technology has created new opportunities for self-expression and entrepreneurship, emphasizing the role of data in optimizing streaming success. With insights into evolving content trends, boundary-setting, and time management, this conversation offers valuable advice for aspiring female streamers looking to thrive in the ever-changing live streaming landscape.

#43 TikTok Ban: What to do and how to prep as a LIVE Streamer on TikTok LIVE

This isn’t about panic—it’s about preparation. Get actionable advice to safeguard your streaming business and thrive, no matter what happens. In this episode of the Guide to LIVE Streaming, Tara and Ben dive into the practical steps every LIVE streamer needs to take to stay resilient in the face of uncertainty—whether TikTok gets banned or not. Learn how to protect your connection with your audience, build a lasting community beyond any single platform, and avoid common pitfalls like chasing after shiny new apps without strategy. We’ll discuss tools and techniques to build direct contact with your audience, including CRMs, email lists, Discord communities, and more. Plus, we’ll explore why understanding your audience’s habits and diversifying your reach can give you more control over your career. Tune in and take charge of your future as a professional LIVE streamer.

#42 Secrets to Winning at Live Streaming

In this episode of The Guide to Live, Tara and Ben share insights on balancing preparation and spontaneity in live streaming, emphasizing the importance of planning a "run of show" to reduce stress and create engaging content. They recount the thrill of winning TikTok's Outstanding Content Award, explore the evolution of live streaming from its raw beginnings to a professional medium, and highlight the role of community in fostering authentic connections. With real-life examples, including working with hosts at the New York Comedy Festival event, they demonstrate how preparation elevates live content while leaving room for magic.