Who makes it
Shef Reynolds
Shef is a father, photographer, and marketer. When he isn't building brands and generating demand for a living, he is camping with his kids or talking with artists.
Each season is a small set of long conversations with poets and novelists, recorded in person. Every episode is three things: an interview, a reading, and a sitting for portraits.
Shef is a father, photographer, and marketer. When he isn't building brands and generating demand for a living, he is camping with his kids or talking with artists.
What is Irregular Speak?
At its center, Irregular Speak is three things: a longform interview podcast, a portrait session, and a brief, recorded reading from the guest. Truly at its core, it is an excuse for Shef to spend time with writers that inspire him.
Who's behind it?
Shef Reynolds. You probably saw his face above this FAQ. Shef is a former full-time photographer, writer, and marketer. He has too many hobbies and holds an MFA in Creative Writing from Goddard College. Right now he is really into making lofi zines. He's probably doing that this instant.
Where does the name come from?
Formerly this show was going to be called "And Then," but the domain was unattainable. Then Irregular Conversation, then Irregular Verbs, and finally Irregular Speak. The name itself is irregular. But Shef and the guest spoke in the interview, the artist shares a bit of spoken word, and the content and craft hopefully speak to you.
What makes this different from other literary or author interview podcasts?
This podcast exists for the love of it. Shef is a student of the craft of writing, but photographs are his love language. He hopes the imagery from this work becomes a true extension of the conversation and performance.
Why do guests read their own work on the show?
There are different levels of vulnerability: the vulnerability of a conversation, of being captured in a moment of stillness, of sharing a wisp of your art. This turns the show from a podcast into a collaborative triptych.
What does a typical episode look like?
The podcast is a loose conversation, focused on the impulse and process of creation more than on the writing itself. It's unabashedly earnest and loosely structured, with more polish brought to the reading and portraiture.
How long are episodes?
Each episode runs roughly 40 to 60 minutes.
How often do new episodes come out?
This show is recorded in person. Shef travels (typically in his camper van) to each guest and spends two hours to a full day with them. Each season is recorded in batches, usually in a one-to-two-week sprint, followed by a mad dash of editing and post-production. So in short: whenever, but usually clustered in weekly batches.
What's the deal with the photography?
It's Shef's true creative love.
Is this a podcast, a newsletter, or both?
It's a podcast, a zine, a digital triptych, a newsletter. Irregular Speak is a bit irregular in shape. The podcast component is a podcast. The photography and reading are the art. The newsletter is more road story than truly a piece of each episode.
What are the zines?
The physical media of each episode, printed and collated by Shef. Mailed or handed to you if you want one. They do cost a few dollars to cover production and postage.
Where can I listen?
YouTube is the place to watch. The best listening may be found on subways, road trips, or over a cup of coffee.
How do I subscribe to the newsletter?
Is any of this paid, or is it free?
Free, free, free. This is a project of the heart. If you'd like to support it, subscribe to the newsletter. The zines do cost money, but just enough to cover production and postage.
Do I need to read the guest's work before listening?
No, but if you haven't before listening, consider doing so afterward.
Can I get the photos or readings on their own?
Sure. It's the internet. They are discrete objects. The zines hold photos and words not found elsewhere.
Who do you feature?
Poets, novelists, journalists, and writers. Masters, journeymen, and apprentices of their craft. All stripes.
How are guests selected?
They are typically sourced by Shef, and geography per season is a key factor.
Can I pitch myself or recommend someone?
Sure! Send an email to shef@irregularspeak.com.
What's involved if I come on as a guest?
A full session takes roughly three to four hours between the portraiture, the reading, and the podcast recording, done in that order. Since the episode is shot at the guest's home or work, a quiet space is needed for filming. A week or more before shooting, the guest completes a pre-interview questionnaire.
Do I need to be widely published to be a fit?
No, though most guests have at least a few traditional publication credits.
How is the show produced?
Shef is a one-man band and fully self-supported. Check out the Substack for a full gear breakdown.
Can I support the show?
Sure. Subscribing to the newsletter and following wherever you get podcasts is a great support. Likewise, buying or engaging with the guests' works.
How do I get in touch?
Instagram, Bluesky, LinkedIn, or email at shef@irregularspeak.com.