From Podcast Doubts to Breakthroughs: My Real Behind-the-Scenes Journey — Michele Barard | Ep 96

If you want to know how to use podcasting as a way to bring people together and share meaningful stories, you’ll want to listen to my conversation with Michelle Berard. In this episode, Michelle opens up about her experience as the host of “Somewhere in the Middle,” a show built on honest conversations at the crossroads of life, culture, and personal challenges.You’ll find out why she believes communication and empathy are essential tools for dealing with the world’s tough issues, and how telling your own story (not just those of your guests!) can be a form of giving back. Michelle also shares why it’s important not to let perfectionism hold you back in podcasting, and what happens when you create a show just for the love of it rather than for numbers or money.A couple of takeaways for podcasters and creators:How to balance having high standards with actually getting your podcast out into the world—why “perfect is the enemy of done.”The importance of being willing to be vulnerable and share your own story, not just highlighting others.Connect with Michele BerardWebsite: https://michelebarard.com/Twitter: https://x.com/mabnolaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelebarard/If My Podcast Story speaks to you, consider subscribing so you never miss an episode. And if you have a moment, leaving a review helps more people discover the stories shared here. Your support truly means a lot.There’s more to every story than what you hear on the episode. Join the My Podcast Story newsletter to receive thoughtful takeaways, episode extras, and personal notes that don’t make it into the show. It’s a quiet way to stay inspired between listens.Sign up here: https://mypodcaststory.com/joinIf the stories you hear on My Podcast Story bring you inspiration, clarity, or simply a moment of connection, consider supporting the podcast by buying me a coffee. Every contribution helps me continue sharing the journeys of podcasters from around the world.Support the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/wisdomhqWant to be a guest on My Podcast Story? Send Wisdom Okonkwo a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/mypodcaststoryChapters00:00 Introducing Michele Berard’s Story01:08 How “Somewhere in the Middle” Began02:21 The Inspiration Behind the Podcast05:27 Seeing Challenges as Opportunities07:17 Wrapping Up Eight Seasons08:08 Developing a New, Personal Podcast09:47 Ideas for a More Personal Show12:07 Empowering Women Through Storytelling14:24 In-Person vs. Online Podcasting15:13 The Power of Human Connection16:37 When Podcast Hosts Step Back18:28 Life, Change, and What’s Next18:29 Michelle’s Professional Background20:34 Podcasting and Author Support21:00 Lessons Learned as a Host23:30 Podcast Format and Perfectionism25:31 Did the Podcast Serve Its Purpose?26:33 Interviewing Authors in Prison31:11 Is the Podcast Still Promoted?32:09 Michelle’s Writing Journey33:16 Did the Podcast Make Money?35:05 Podcasting as a Passion Project36:45 Choosing the Right Podcast Platform40:02 Building Your Online Presence42:21 Legacy, Mentorship, and Future Plans44:28 Advice for New Podcasters45:20 Wrapping Up and Staying Connected