Podcast Summary: The Podcast Gauntlet – "Don’t Worry About BackUps – Computers are ALWAYS Reliable"
Hosts: Mike Wilkerson & Bryan Entzminger
Release Date: January 9, 2026

Episode Overview

In this episode, Mike and Bryan take on the myth that computers are so reliable you don’t need to worry about backups—especially in the world of podcasting. They challenge industry assumptions about "must-do" best practices and dig deep into real-world strategies, systems, and personal stories around backups. Their conversation covers file management, tools, workflow tips, and the stakes for podcasters who don't take data loss seriously.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

The Importance of Backups

• Dispelling Myths: Mike strongly refutes the idea that computers are always reliable and backups are unnecessary, emphasizing that data loss is a real and common risk.
• Types of Backups: Bryan distinguishes between two key types of backups:
  • File backups: Safeguarding project files, edits, finished products.
  • Recording backups: Ensuring multiple recordings exist for critical audio/video sessions.

Personal Backup Strategies

Bryan’s Workflow (File & Project Backups) (04:02 - 06:51)

• Layered Redundancy:

  • In-process files live on local hard drive.
  • Automatic, real-time sync to external SSD.
  • Hourly incremental backup to an additional spinning disk.
  • Finished files (MP3s, zipped project sessions) moved to an archive disk.
  • Archive contents backed up hourly to Dropbox.

• Remote Protection: Files are also stored offsite, acknowledging physical risks like fire:
  “if there's a fire in your house and your only backup's in your house, then you lose your only backup.” (05:44, Bryan)

• Client Work: Maintains copies of client media to avoid ever returning empty-handed if data is lost elsewhere.

Mike’s System (Studio-Wide & Client-Facing Processes) (06:52 - 09:40)

• Full Coverage via Carbonite:
  “Any machine that's running inside of my studio has Carbonite running on it… so that anything captured on those systems now has a reciprocal off-site backup so that I don't ever have to worry about it.” (06:55, Mike)

• Multiple Cloud Backups:

  • Google Drive used for sharing specific deliverables and project archives with clients.
  • Files also backed up into the Microsoft “OneDrive” ecosystem for redundancy.
  • Client-friendly: Offers not just files but working project files in the cloud for client access.

• Naming Conventions: Organizational tip: “Ironically all the machine names are Star Trek characters.” (08:01, Mike)

Recording Redundancy & Failures (10:37 - 13:09)

• Double (or Triple) Recording:
  "If you're not recording at least two copies, you're setting yourself up for failure.” (10:39, Bryan)
• Real Story of Data Loss: Bryan shares a personal failure when a guest’s audio was lost and couldn't be recovered, cementing his multi-layered recording approach.
• Multiple Recording Methods: Recommends remote studio solution (e.g., Streamyard), local audio capture, and backup to SD cards or other local drives.
• Practical Advice:
  • Practice your recording workflow before you bring on high-profile guests.
  • Always make a backup when possible; don’t let important guests be your first attempt at a complex setup.

The Stakes: Guest Experience & Reputation

• Protecting Your Reputation:
  “Not wanting to have to go back to somebody who is important and say, hey, do you mind if we do it again? ... It just, it's, it's a bad move.” (13:09, Mike)

• High-Profile Example: For episodes with renowned guests like Gary Nesner (crisis negotiator at Waco), their three-point backup system is always in play.

The Cost of Backups (15:05 - 15:10)

• Investment, Not Expense:
  “Backups cost money. ... Shut up and pay some money to have your business function, for God's sake.” (15:10, Mike)
• Beware of Free Tools: Free backup solutions may not be sustainable or reliable long-term.

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• “You got to be backing up. It's just a matter of time before you lose that either RAW file or worse yet, a final edit file that you just simply don't have another copy of.” (03:20, Mike)
• “If there's a fire in your house and your only backup's in your house, then you lose your only backup.” (05:44, Bryan)
• “If you're not recording at least two copies, you're setting yourself up for failure.” (10:39, Bryan)
• “Not wanting to have to go back to somebody who is important and say, hey, do you mind if we do it again? ... It just, it's, it's a bad move.” (13:09, Mike)
• “Backups cost money. ... Shut up and pay some money to have your business function, for God's sake.” (15:10, Mike)

Practical Takeaways

• Have BOTH Local and Cloud-Based Backups: Use tools/services like Carbonite, Dropbox, Google Drive, and local physical media.
• Automate Where Possible: Use systems that back up files on a schedule or in real time to ensure nothing gets missed.
• Practice Your Recording Workflow: Never try a complicated multi-record backup system for the first time with a high-stakes guest.
• Budget for Backups: Accept that reliable backup solutions are worth paying for—your podcast and reputation depend on it.
• Responsibility as a Content Creator: If you can make a backup, make it.
  “Just do it. Just make backups. Make up a lot. Make a lot of backups. Don’t trust just one backup. Maybe don’t even trust two.” (14:56, Bryan)

Timestamps for Important Segments

• 00:52 – Mike on the critical nature of real backups
• 01:20 – Bryan introduces the two types of backups
• 04:02 – Bryan outlines his exact file backup strategy
• 06:52 – Mike shares his comprehensive studio backup system
• 10:37 – Bryan on multi-layered recording backups and a personal failure story
• 13:09 – Mike on the vital importance of never asking high-value guests for a redo
• 15:05 – Both hosts on the necessity and cost of backup solutions

Tone & Style

Conversational and direct, the hosts inject humor, practical wisdom, and urgency. Both Mike and Bryan blend technical knowledge with relatable personal anecdotes to keep podcast creators engaged and motivated to take backup processes seriously.

For aspiring or established podcasters, this episode is a must-listen (or read) to safeguard your recordings and reputation. Back it up—seriously!