My Podcast Story

What does 15 years of podcasting really teach you?In this episode, I sit down with Audrey TechDiva Wiggins, host of Tech Diva Biz Talks, to talk about her long journey in podcasting, branding, business, technology, and staying creative through every stage of the process. Audrey started back in 2010 with a web TV-style show called Make Something Happen.tv, and over the years, her work evolved into a focused podcast about business, branding, marketing, and technology.Tune in for an honest, fun, and practical conversation about podcasting for the long run.Connect With Audrey TechDiva WigginsWebsite: https://techdivabiztalks.comPodcast: https://techdivabiztalks.comIf 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/joinChapters00:00 Opening Moment00:19 Meet Audrey TechDiva Wiggins00:38 What Tech Diva Biz Talks Is About01:04 Why Audrey Started Podcasting01:19 Starting With Web TV Tools in 201002:11 Make Something Happen.tv and the Early Days03:14 The Story Behind the Tech Diva Name04:35 Evolving From a General Interview Show to a Focused Business Podcast05:23 Behind the Scenes of Audrey’s Podcast Workflow06:00 Batch Recording and Keeping Episodes Ready07:12 Why Batch Editing Can Save Time08:09 Preparing Questions and Adding Personality With AI09:03 Recording, Hosting, and Editing Tools Audrey Uses10:43 Favorite Memories From 15 Years of Podcasting12:46 Why Podcasting Feels More Accepted Today14:14 Starting With Simple Podcast Equipment15:35 Why a Quiet Recording Space Matters16:26 Creative Recording Setups and Closet Audio18:20 Does the Podcast Make Money?19:24 Using a Podcast to Bring Leads Into a Business20:11 My Podcast Story Newsletter Break20:34 Why Podcast Promotion Matters22:12 Tracking Podcast Leads and Website Traffic24:08 Thinking About Fun Podcast Ideas Outside the Main Business26:27 Possible Future Podcast Ideas28:22 Audrey’s Podcast Plans for Next Year29:13 Improving the Virtual Studio and Green Screen Setup31:46 Why Podcasters Should Keep Improving32:50 How Podcasting Supports Speaking Opportunities33:38 Podcast Guesting as a Business Strategy35:58 How Branding Helps Audrey’s Podcast38:13 Possible Tech Diva Merchandise40:11 Audrey’s Advice for New Podcasters42:37 Where to Find Audrey and Tech Diva Biz Talks43:03 Final Thoughts

Have you ever wondered what really helps a podcast grow when you are not chasing viral clips, perfect systems, or big marketing strategies? In this episode, Ashana Kaiulani shares how her podcast grew through honesty, connection, clear messaging, and a willingness to keep showing up before everything felt polished.In this episode, I sit down with Ashana Kaiulani, host of The Reclamation Room, to talk about her journey into podcasting, why she waited one to two years before finally launching, and what changed once she decided to use her voice. Ashana is a women’s reclamation coach whose work centers on healing from narcissistic abuse, betrayal trauma, relational harm, boundaries, and reclaiming a sense of self. She also hosts Voices of Strength as part of Break the Silence Alabama and the Domestic Violence Registry Project.Connect With Ashana KaiulaniWebsite: https://wayhomewellness.comInstagram: https://instagram.com/wayhomewellnessIf 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/joinChapters00:00 Opening Moment00:19 Meet Ashana Kaiulani00:27 Introducing The Reclamation Room and Voices of Strength01:21 A Big Podcast Milestone in Canada02:46 The Listener Message That Made the Podcast Feel Real03:35 How Podcasting Helped Grow Ashana’s Instagram04:38 Sharing Podcast Clips in an Authentic Way06:18 Letting Humor and Personality Come Through07:43 Choosing Connection Over Viral Content09:01 Starting the Podcast After Waiting One to Two Years09:44 Growing Through Networking and Real Relationships11:31 The Meaning Behind The Reclamation Room Cover Art12:58 What Makes The Reclamation Room Different14:28 Why a Clear Podcast Subtitle Matters15:18 The Story Behind the Name The Reclamation Room16:50 Why Ashana Waited Before Starting Her Podcast18:59 The Biggest Early Struggle: Coming Up With Episode Ideas19:32 Finding Content Ideas Through Client Questions21:00 Using Facebook Groups, Reddit, and Online Communities for Ideas23:37 Turning Real Questions Into Authentic Episodes25:17 My Podcast Story Newsletter Break25:40 Secondary Struggles and Preparing for Season Two26:05 Letting Season One Be Imperfect27:28 Behind the Scenes of Ashana’s Podcast Setup28:24 Recording With Simple Gear and a MacBook29:07 Why Ashana Wants to Streamline Her Workflow30:37 Finding an Editor Through a Local Facebook Group32:03 Bartering, Building a Portfolio, and Supporting the Editor33:07 Thinking About Sponsorships and Money33:45 What Ashana Learned From Fundraising for Voices of Strength35:20 Going Door to Door to Find Local Support36:02 Reaching Out to 50 Businesses and Getting 14 Donors37:33 How Business Owners Responded to the Podcast Pitch38:55 The Current Sponsorship Plan for The Reclamation Room40:10 Ashana’s Bigger Vision Beyond the Podcast41:02 How Podcasting Created Speaking Opportunities42:03 The First Speaking Engagement That Happened Unexpectedly43:40 Goals for Season Two44:15 Why Listeners Want More Solo Episodes45:55 Talking About Downloads, YouTube Views, and Podcast Numbers46:33 The Unconventional Way Ashana Publishes Her Show48:17 Reframing 4,000 YouTube Views as a Real Audience49:05 Clip-Worthy Moments From the Conversation49:32 Advice for Making Solo Episodes Easier52:14 Using Interviews to Help Create Solo-Style Episodes55:34 Agreeing to Try Riverside for Future Conversations57:13 Where to Find Ashana Kaiulani57:43 Final Thoughts

What happens when a former movie and TV producer discovers that podcasting gives him something Hollywood rarely could: creative freedom, ownership, and room to tell the full story?In this episode, I sit down with Alan Katz, founder of Costered and Touchstone Productions, to talk about his journey from making movies and TV shows to building a growing podcast company with multiple shows in the world. Alan shares how podcasting became the creative home he did not know he was looking for, why honest storytelling matters, and how a strong podcast promise can make a show easier to understand, promote, and grow.Tune in for an honest, practical conversation about storytelling, podcast growth, creative control, and what it really takes to build a podcast that people understand and want to come back to.Connect With Alan KatzWebsite:  https://thedonorpodcast.comIf 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/joinChapters00:00 Opening Moment00:19 Introducing Alan Katz00:37 Alan Shares What His Podcast Company Is Building01:01 Launching John Kiriakou’s Dead Drop02:45 Why the Podcast Goes Deep Into a Spy’s Story05:03 Why Podcasting Allows a More Honest Storytelling Approach06:53 How the New Show Reached 12,000 to 15,000 Downloads08:11 Rushing the Podcast Into Production Before a Big Interview09:05 Using Audience Attention from Joe Rogan’s YouTube Comments10:52 Why Selling the Story Is Part of Telling the Story12:01 The Importance of Knowing Your Podcast’s Franchise14:07 How Costered and Touchstone Productions Started15:22 The Faith Theism Project and Alan’s First Podcasting Experience17:08 From Tales from the Crypt to Dads from the Crypt18:31 Turning a Difficult Movie Experience Into a Podcast20:14 Why Honesty Made How Not to Make a Movie Stand Out21:06 Creating The Donor and The Hall Closet21:36 My Podcast Story Newsletter Break21:59 Why Alan No Longer Wants to Make Movies or TV22:25 Growing to Nine Podcasts and More in Development24:25 Why Podcasting Is a Powerful Creative Medium26:05 The Freedom and Fear of a Blank Creative Page27:46 Alan’s One-Person Podcast Company28:39 Thinking About Podcast Networks and Bigger Opportunities29:43 Advice for Building a Nigerian Podcasting Industry31:10 Creating Diverse Content Under One Podcast Family32:48 The Challenge of Hiring the Right Podcast Team34:16 Scaling the Company and Staying Open to Investment36:13 How Alan Structures Podcast Partnerships38:03 Ownership, Production Budgets, and Profit Sharing40:59 Alan Encourages Wisdom’s Podcast Network Vision42:01 Where to Find Alan and Costered and Touchstone43:11 Final Thoughts

What does it really take to build a podcast that helps people feel seen, heard, and connected? In this episode, we look at podcasting not just as content, but as a way to bring real human stories into the room.In this episode, I sit down with Vanessa the Vivacious, host of Humanity 2.0 Podcast, to talk about her journey through podcasting, creative work, interviewing strangers, and building a show around compassion, empathy, and human connection. Vanessa shares the story behind Humanity 2.0, what she learned from earlier podcast projects, and why she believes stories can help people remember that they are not alone.Tune in for a warm, funny, and practical conversation about podcasting, humanity, creativity, and the courage to simply press record.Connect With Vanessa the VivaciousPodcast: Humanity 2.0 PodcastWebsite: https://vanessathevivacious.com/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/joinChapters00:00 Opening Moment00:19 Introducing Vanessa the Vivacious01:46 What Humanity 2.0 Podcast Is About02:16 What Happened to Humanity 1.0?03:18 Vanessa’s Earlier Podcasting Journey04:08 Remembering the First Podcast and First Microphone05:20 The Video Series Behind Humanity 2.007:00 What Humanity 3.0 Could Look Like07:43 Vanessa’s New Book Project on Mental Health Stories10:45 Turning the Book Idea Into a Possible Companion Podcast13:51 Wisdom’s New Podcast Ideas and the Work Behind Podcasting14:31 Podcast Consulting, Creative Ideas, and Helping Others Start18:05 Being a Generalist in Creative Work20:04 Why Humanity Is Such an Open Podcast Theme21:18 Newsletter Break21:41 Handling Guests Who Go Off-Topic23:22 Why Guest Expectations Matter Before Recording24:19 Vanessa’s Pre-Interview Guest Workflow25:11 Working With Guests Who Are New to Podcasting26:09 The Power of Follow-Up Questions27:10 Silence as an Interviewing Tool27:53 Avoiding Too Many Questions at Once28:41 Finding the Right Podcast Episode Length29:04 Using Unexpected Questions to Help Guests Relax30:00 Talking About Podcast Monetization30:57 How Much Content to Build Before Monetizing31:16 Repurposing Old Interviews Into Social Content31:52 Why Podcasters Need Help and Support35:25 Using Multiple Promo Clips to Increase Traffic36:23 Why Vanessa Has Not Brought on Podcast Help Yet38:00 Wisdom’s New Podcast Concept: Plan Don’t Change39:18 Why a Clear Podcast Premise Helps Guests Prepare41:54 Creating Intros, Concepts, and Podcast Ideas42:06 Following Passion Before Starting Another Show47:52 What’s Next for Humanity 2.0 Podcast48:38 Using Seasons and Themes to Refresh a Podcast50:04 Where to Find Humanity 2.0 Podcast50:57 Why PodMatch Makes Guest Booking Easier53:09 Vanessa’s Suggested Question for Future Guests55:44 Vanessa’s Advice for New Podcasters56:13 Press Record and Evolve From There

Have you ever had so much helpful information to share that one format just wasn’t enough? That is where Dr. Ayla Wolf’s podcast story begins.In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Ayla Wolf, host of Life After Impact, the Concussion Recovery Podcast, to talk about how her show grew out of a 600-page book for people dealing with post-concussion syndrome. Ayla works in functional neurology and Chinese medicine, helping people with neurological disorders, and she started the podcast because many people with concussions struggle with reading, eye strain, headaches, and focus. Podcasting became a way to make the information easier to access, easier to absorb, and more supportive for people looking for answers.Tune in for a grounded and honest conversation about building a meaningful niche podcast, serving a specific audience, and figuring out how to keep going without burning out.Connect With Dr. Ayla WolfWebsite: https://lifeafterimpact.comIf 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/joinChapters00:00 Opening Moment00:19 Meet Dr. Ayla Wolf00:39 Introducing Life After Impact00:40 Why Ayla Started a Podcast After Writing Her Book02:34 Sitting on the Life After Impact Name for 10 Years03:31 Starting the Podcast With a Clinician Colleague04:37 Learning Podcast Editing in GarageBand05:54 How Long the Podcast Has Been Running06:41 Reaching Out to Guests and Experts07:50 The Behind-the-Scenes Podcast Workflow09:51 Using AI for Show Descriptions, Titles, and Transcripts11:00 Audio, YouTube, and the Mountain of Unedited Video11:55 A Tool Recommendation for Streamlining Podcast Content13:49 Ayla’s Guest Booking Strategy15:37 Preparing Research-Based Guest Questions17:09 Using LinkedIn to Reach Potential Guests17:48 Creating a Podcast Guest Form18:57 The Challenge of Scheduling Podcast Interviews21:57 Why Ayla Keeps Her Clinic Calendar Separate22:49 When a Scheduling System Does Not Get Adopted24:31 How Guests Respond to Podcast Invitations25:03 Promoting the Podcast With Limited Time26:22 Podcast Downloads and Niche Audience Growth28:10 Why Weekly Podcasting Feels Unsustainable29:18 Repurposing Popular Episodes to Stay Consistent30:07 Considering Help With Editing32:23 Splitting Long Interviews Into Part One and Part Two35:00 Using Solo Episodes to Save Time36:26 Keeping Momentum Without Burning Out37:24 Monetization, Affiliate Links, and Revenue Challenges38:38 Being Fully Booked Through Her Clinic Work39:28 Ayla’s Advice on Quality Versus Quantity40:39 Where to Listen to Life After Impact41:42 Final Thoughts

What happens when a podcast starts with a mission before it ever makes money?In this episode, I sit down with Wild Willie, host of Soul Impact: How Music Saved Us, to talk about how music became a safe place in his life, how that story shaped his podcast, and why he now interviews artists about the real struggles music has helped them move through.You’ll hear how Wild Willie launched his podcast in June, what it took to get past self-doubt, and why listener feedback became one of the biggest things that helped him keep going. We also talk about the behind-the-scenes work of podcasting, including using StreamYard, AI tools, short-form video tools, social media, podcast networks, and weekly consistency to grow from around 1,500 views to 21,000 views in just a few months. Plus, you’ll get a real look at how his podcast connects with his DJ business, why networking matters, how he thinks about monetization, and why finding your “why” can carry you when the numbers or money are not there yet.Tune in for an honest conversation about podcasting with heart, building community through music, and learning as you go.Connect With Wild WilliePodcast: Soul Impact: How Music Saved UsIf 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/joinChapters00:00 Welcome to My Podcast Story00:19 Meet Wild Willie00:48 When Soul Impact Started01:01 Music as a Safe Haven01:44 Early Challenges and Self-Doubt02:39 How Listener Feedback Helped Him Keep Going03:30 The Impact Soul Impact Has on Listeners04:18 Behind the Scenes: Tools, Costs, and Production05:51 Growing From 1,500 to 21,000 Views06:44 Faith, Family, and Purpose Behind the Podcast07:13 Consistency, Social Media, and Podcast Growth08:42 Why Networking Matters for Podcasters09:34 When the Podcast Started Feeling Real10:41 My Podcast Story Newsletter Break11:04 How the Podcast Connects to His DJ Business12:24 Monetization, Out-of-Pocket Costs, and Helping One Person13:15 Giving Back to the Entertainment Community14:06 The Benefits of Joining a Podcast Network15:13 Future Projects and Benefit Festivals17:13 Why Podcasting Feels Like an Unplugging Space18:39 Talking About Music Without Always Playing Music19:31 Navigating Music Permissions and Release Forms20:11 Reviewing Episodes and Getting Better21:21 How Podcasting Helps the Host Grow Too22:32 Advice for New Podcasters: Find Your Why24:04 Where to Find Wild Willie and Soul Impact25:24 Final Thoughts

What does it really take to keep a podcast going for 10 years?In this episode, I sit down with Andrew Lewin, host of How to Protect the Ocean, to talk about the real story behind building a long-running podcast, starting before he felt ready, changing the name for clarity, growing through consistency, and using podcasting to connect people with ocean conservation.Andrew is a marine biologist who started podcasting because he wanted more people to understand what was happening with the ocean. He began with interviews, added solo episodes, tested different publishing schedules, moved into video, and kept experimenting with his workflow along the way.Tune in for a grounded and encouraging conversation about staying curious, showing up consistently, and building a podcast that can grow with you over time.Connect With Andrew LewinWebsite: https://speakupforblue.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/howtoprotecttheoceanSupport The Seagrass Effect: https://speakupforblue.com/seagrassIf 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/joinChapters00:00 Opening Moment00:19 Meet Andrew Lewin00:25 What How to Protect the Ocean Is About00:58 Why Andrew Started the Podcast02:08 The Original Podcast Name: Speak Up for Blue03:01 Using SEO to Make the Podcast Easier to Find04:04 Why a Simple Podcast Name Worked Better05:06 Starting the Podcast 10 Years Ago05:42 The Fear Before Hitting Publish07:28 What Happened After Andrew Finally Published08:05 Andrew’s Podcast Microphone Journey09:37 When Andrew Started Seeing Himself as a Podcaster10:03 Getting Invited to Cover a Science Conference11:23 Helping People Connect with Scientists as Real People12:39 Does the Podcast Cover Lakes and Rivers Too?14:38 Why Andrew Chose Ocean Conservation17:18 What 10 Years of Podcasting Has Taught Him18:10 Serving the Audience with Clear Takeaways19:33 Bringing Ocean-Friendly Businesses and Stories to the Show20:49 My Podcast Story Newsletter Break21:12 Andrew’s Production Workflow21:54 Why He Kept Editing Simple for Years23:39 Moving from Audio to Video Podcasting24:37 Learning What Works on YouTube25:26 Hiring a Video Editor26:29 Using Metricool for Podcast Promotion27:43 Why Consistency Has Been the Key29:24 Growing Slowly and Steadily on YouTube31:12 Using Data to Understand What the Audience Likes32:44 The Cost of Producing Three Episodes a Week34:41 Podcast SEO, TubeBuddy, Titles, and Thumbnails36:16 Monthly Tool Costs and Metricool37:20 Reviewing Podcast Expenses38:04 Why Andrew Still Uses Libsyn42:28 Using AI to Save Time on Show Notes43:39 Riverside and Video Podcast Recording45:05 AWeber, LinkedIn Newsletters, and PodPage47:30 Keeping Podcast Tools Simple48:34 Does the Podcast Make Money?49:57 Building a Podcast Network Around Ocean Stories51:36 How Andrew Has Monetized the Podcast52:13 Sponsorships, Conferences, and Podcast Services53:56 Where to Find Andrew Lewin54:40 Final Thoughts

What happens when you start a podcast to promote your book, but the podcast grows into something much bigger than you expected?In this episode, I sit down with Jessica Danel, host of Jess Sayin’ with Jessica Danel, to talk about starting a podcast from scratch, learning the production process as she goes, and using real-life stories to connect with parents, authors, entrepreneurs, and people who have been through hard things and come out the other side.Jessica shares how her book, Bucket List from a Redneck Girl, led her into podcasting, why she wanted to create conversations around parenting, trauma, entrepreneurship, and resilience, and how the show quickly became more than just a way to promote her book. She also talks about building a business from her living room, becoming an author, and now adding podcast host and producer to the list.You’ll pick up practical lessons on launching before you feel fully ready, creating a production workflow, batching episodes ahead of time, using tools like Riverside, Canva, ChatGPT, Suno, PodMatch, and MatchMaker.fm, and managing guest booking without burning yourself out. You’ll hear how Jessica records, edits, creates shorts, prepares guest outlines, and keeps her show relaxed, conversational, and human. We also talk about the challenge of balancing podcasting with work, family, kids, dogs, house problems, and everyday life.Tune in for an honest and encouraging conversation about figuring podcasting out as you go, staying curious, and building something meaningful one episode at a time.Connect With Jessica DanelWebsite: https://jesssaying.net/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/joinChapters00:00 Welcome to My Podcast Story00:19 Meet Jessica Danel00:49 What Jess Sayin’ with Jessica Danel Is About01:44 How Her Book Inspired the Podcast02:36 Building a Million-Dollar Business from Scratch03:29 The Story Behind Bucket List from a Redneck Girl05:47 When Jessica Started Her Podcast06:43 How She Stays Ahead with Scheduled Episodes07:12 Balancing Podcasting, Work, Family, and Life08:20 Creating a Conversational and Relaxed Podcast Style09:24 A Powerful Episode About a School Shooting11:23 Behind the Scenes of Jessica’s Production Workflow12:03 Using Riverside, Canva, Suno, and ChatGPT13:51 Adding Intros, Music, Guest Promos, and Episode Elements15:07 Creating Social Shorts for Each Guest16:08 Learning Podcasting Through Pat Flynn and YouTube17:24 Why She Dropped Multiple Episodes at Launch18:11 Editing the Podcast Herself18:43 Biggest Early Podcasting Challenge19:27 Why Time Management Became the Hardest Part20:37 Learning to Limit Appointments and Avoid Burnout22:20 Why Jessica Started a Podcast After Writing Her Book24:18 Leaving Something Meaningful Behind for Her Kids25:18 Whether the Podcast Makes Money Yet26:21 Future Plans, Books, Coaching, and Business Ideas27:40 Helpful Tools for Books, Podcasting, and Promotion28:08 How Jessica Uses ChatGPT for Guest Prep30:32 Creating Business Cards and Visuals with Canva32:45 Becoming a Producer by Figuring It Out34:00 What Podcast Success Means to Jessica35:26 Why Jessica Believes Things Are Figure-Out-Able36:06 Finding Podcast Guests Through PodMatch and MatchMaker.fm36:58 Advice for New Podcasters39:30 Where to Find Jessica, Her Podcast, and Her Book40:56 Final Thanks41:00 Closing Thoughts from Wisdom

What does it really take to start a podcast when the idea has been sitting with you for years? In this episode, we get an honest look at what happens when someone finally takes the leap, starts publishing, and learns fast by doing.In this episode, I sit down with Brent Colbert, host of The First Responder Playbook, to talk about launching a podcast for police, fire, EMS, and first responder communities. Brent is a full-time police officer in the United States, and his show focuses on training, leadership, real stories, and the lessons first responders can use to grow in their work and life.You’ll pick up practical lessons from Brent’s first two months as a podcast host, including how he booked his first guests, why PodMatch helped him get started, how he published close to 30 episodes in a short time, and what he learned from early technical issues with podcast hosting. We also talk about his production setup, including StreamYard, Cast Magic, REAP, Podbean, TubeBuddy, and the simple systems helping him create video clips, descriptions, timestamps, and YouTube content. Plus, you’ll hear how his YouTube channel grew faster than expected, why he is focused on watch hours and monetization, and what new podcasters can learn from starting before everything feels perfect.Tune in for a real, grounded conversation about courage, consistency, guest booking, podcast tools, audience growth, and why Brent wishes he had started sooner.Connect With Brent ColbertYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheFirstResponderPlaybookIf 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/joinChapters00:00 Opening Moment00:19 Meet Brent Colbert00:48 Brent Shares How New the Podcast Is01:44 The Real Reason Brent Started The First Responder Playbook03:39 Naming The First Responder Playbook04:36 How Brent Got His First Guest05:23 Finding PodMatch Through Reddit06:07 How the Podcast Vision Is Coming Together06:50 Brent’s Podcast Production Tools08:35 Switching From Riverside to StreamYard09:01 Moving to Podbean After Hosting Issues09:58 Growing Fast on YouTube10:38 Working Toward YouTube Monetization11:22 Brent’s Simple Podcast Tool Stack12:00 Why a Podcast Website Is Next16:22 Using TubeBuddy for YouTube Tags and SEO17:23 The Biggest Roadblock So Far18:43 The Hard Lesson Brent Learned From Apple Podcast Issues21:06 How Brent Finds Episode Ideas and Guests22:13 Spontaneous Guest Booking vs Planned Topics23:36 Listener Feedback and Handling Negative Comments25:08 A Listener Message That Made the Work Feel Worth It26:00 Fear, Doubt, and Starting Anyway27:28 The Surprising Guests Brent Has Interviewed28:11 The Advice Brent Would Give Himself on Day One28:48 Brent’s Earlier Attempt at Podcasting31:59 Why Guest Interviews Help With Consistency32:10 Three Non-Negotiables for New Podcasters34:23 Brent’s Future Podcast Plans36:03 Growing Through Social Media and a Website37:23 The Difference Between Evergreen and Timely Podcasts40:06 Where to Find Brent and The First Responder Playbook41:09 Final Thoughts

Have you ever wondered what podcasting could look like if you did not treat it like a quick win, but as a long-term practice for growth, connection, and confidence?In this episode, I sit down with Debbi DiMaggio, host of Mastering the Art of Success, to talk about her journey from real estate advisor and author to weekly live podcast host. Debbi originally launched her show as Mastering the Art of Real Estate, but later changed it to Mastering the Art of Success so she could open the conversation to entrepreneurs, coaches, founders, creatives, and people with all kinds of stories.You’ll hear why Debbi started podcasting after years of writing books, how she moved past the fear of being on camera, and why she chose a production setup where she can focus on the conversation instead of the tech. We also talk about live podcasting, guest booking, what makes a strong conversation, how she handles interviews that do not flow as easily, and why her definition of podcast success is not only about downloads or monetization. Plus, you’ll get a very practical lesson from Debbi’s Mindset in Motion framework: if you want opportunities, guests, collaborations, or growth, sometimes the next step is simple but uncomfortable — just ask.Tune in for an honest conversation about consistency, confidence, podcast systems, asking boldly, and what it means to keep showing up at 110%.Connect With Debbi DiMaggioWebsite: https://debbidimaggio.comPodcast: https://debbipodcast.comBook: https://mindsetinmotionbook.comIf 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/joinChapters00:00 Opening Moment00:21 Introducing Debbi DiMaggio01:13 The Name of Debbi’s Podcast01:24 Why She Changed From Real Estate to Success02:08 Why Debbi Started a Podcast After Writing Books02:36 Facing the Fear of Camera and Conversation03:37 Why Debbi Does Not Handle the Tech04:45 How Her Live Podcast Production Works07:19 Paying for Support and Staying Booked Ahead08:05 Why Guests Want to Be on Her Podcast10:21 Why Podcasting Gives Debbi Time to Sit and Connect10:57 Debbi’s Approach to Podcast Conversations11:52 How She Handles a Boring Interview13:23 How Debbi Defines Podcast Success14:20 What Debbi Expected Podcasting Would Do for Her15:53 My Podcast Story Newsletter Break16:16 How Podcasting Improved Debbi’s Confidence19:09 Why the Show Is No Longer Just About Real Estate22:02 Debbi’s Future Goals for the Podcast and Speaking23:32 Turning a Podcast Monetization Goal Into Motion25:54 Using the Mindset in Motion Framework in Real Life27:27 Why Podcasters Need to Ask More30:42 How the Podcast Influences Debbi’s Business Thinking33:16 Debbi’s TED Talk and Speaking Vision33:43 What Showing Up Well Means to Debbi Now34:45 Where to Find Debbi DiMaggio35:45 Final Thoughts

If you’ve ever wondered how to turn a deeply personal journey into a global podcast that breaks taboos and builds community, this episode is for you. I talk with Eve Hall, creator of the Please Me podcast, about her mission to destigmatize conversations around sex and sexual health. You’ll pick up practical advice on building podcast visibility, hear what it takes to stay authentic in a sensitive niche, and discover how Eve balances her roles as a health expert, inventor, and advocate. We also chat about the behind-the-scenes systems, tools, storytelling choices, and lessons in audience growth. Plus, you’ll get a down-to-earth look at what it really takes to keep going, and keep healing, through podcasting. Tune in for an honest conversation filled with wins, doubts, and wisdom.Connect With Eve HallWebsite: https://pleaseme.online/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/please.me.by.eve.creations/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/join⁠Chapters00:00 Getting Bombarded With Advertisers00:20 Welcome and Introduction to Eve01:19 From Physical Therapy to Podcasting02:47 A Second Coming of Age04:07 Launching a Sexual Health Practice05:00 The Lightbulb Moment for the Podcast06:08 From Conference Attendee to Speaker06:49 Global Podcast Growth and Recognition08:01 Loving Your Own Voice09:09 Finding Courage in Vulnerability10:15 Reaching Listeners Worldwide11:24 Choosing Podcast Topics That Matter12:19 The Values Guiding Content Choices13:20 Being an Introverted Podcaster14:20 Tackling Politics and Tough Topics15:05 How an Episode Gets Made16:12 Editor and Producer from Day One17:13 Essential Tools to Run the Show18:41 Quality Control After Publishing20:19 Switching Podcast Hosts22:02 What It Means to Be Independent23:15 How Megaphone Recruited Eve24:15 The Realities of Monetizing25:44 Cost and Revenue Sharing26:22 Navigating Vulnerability on Air28:08 The Secret to Explosive Podcast Growth29:44 Why Social Media Isn’t Enough30:57 Where Does the Marketing Budget Go?32:30 How Far $150/Month Can Go34:04 The Power of Podcast Advertising36:15 Systems That Fuel Consistency38:14 Learning Enough to Oversee Well39:25 Newsletter Lessons and Surprises41:42 Why Email Is a Podcast Lifeline43:19 The New Internet in Africa?44:10 Podcast Guesting as a Growth Tool45:19 Guesting Converts Listeners Already Primed46:21 Looking Ahead for Please Me47:45 Big Clit Energy and Owning Confidence49:54 Advice for Podcasters Tackling Sensitive Topics50:21 Publishing Rhythm and Where to Listen51:15 How to Connect With Eve52:30 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts

If you’ve ever wondered why so many interviews end up sounding the same, this episode is for you. I sit down with J.L. Palmer, a guide for podcasters who want to go beyond surface-level conversations and spark real connections. You'll pick up practical ideas for making your podcast memorable, hear honest stories about creative burnout and digital privacy, and learn how thoughtful auditing can turn good content into episodes people remember. We also chat about building a business in podcasting without losing your joy, and how to truly include both your guests and listeners in the process. Tune in for a refreshingly honest take on why depth matters more than volume, and how to keep your podcast both human and impactful.Connect With J.L. PalmerWebsite: http://jlpalmergroup.com/Substack: https://jlpalmerconsulting.substack.com/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/joinChapters00:00 Why Most Conversations Are Forgettable00:41 Creating Memorable Podcast Moments01:26 Conversations, Networking, and Podcast Auditing02:19 Defining "Memorable" in Podcasting03:45 The Problem with Cookie Cutter Content04:48 Authenticity vs. Perfection05:30 Coming Back After a Hiatus06:04 Embracing Curiosity and Not-Knowing06:45 Building the Podcast Audit Business08:02 What Makes Content Connect08:38 Free Audits and Case Studies10:16 How Long Does Change Take?11:12 Measuring Podcast Impact12:06 Rethinking Metrics Beyond Downloads14:04 Making Guests Feel Like Royalty15:42 Balancing Guest, Host, and Listener Needs17:26 The Real Reason for Podcasting18:45 The Power of Podcasting as Networking20:11 From Interviews to Production Burnout21:31 Overwhelm, Hard Drive Crashes, and Letting Go24:41 Digital Privacy in Podcasting25:22 Returning with Care and Boundaries26:16 Coaching Approaches and Unique Journeys27:34 New Podcast Dreams and Brand Choices29:00 Embracing Digital Anonymity31:17 Opportunities for Collaboration32:31 Does the Podcast Make Money?33:05 Self-Education Through Interviews34:10 Lessons Learned After a Thousand Conversations35:03 Top Three Podcasting Lessons36:34 Editing for Experience, Not Perfection38:33 Production Choices and Audience Respect39:39 How to Build a Podcasting Business43:54 Pitfalls of Treating Podcasts as Lead Magnets45:12 Keeping Real Conversations at the Center47:34 Helping Guests Shine and Stay Connected51:19 Choosing How You Earn from Podcasting52:36 Connection Over Sales—A Different Approach54:02 Conferences, Connections, and Partnerships55:52 Working with Podmatch and Guesting Agencies57:09 The Value of Guesting and Refining Your Message59:47 Growth Is About Depth, Not Volume61:32 Evolving Your Message with Feedback62:56 Staying in Touch with Your Guests63:14 Systematizing Guest Follow-Up64:47 Content Sharing and Collaboration65:36 Building Your Newsletter Audience66:45 The Right Way to Grow Email Subscribers67:25 Offering Support in Multiple Ways69:03 Expert Webinars and Deeper Learning69:34 Why Start a Podcast—Rethinking the Basics70:57 Wrapping Up—Feeling at Home in the Conversation71:10 Call to Action and Outro

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like to push through self-doubt when launching a podcast, this episode is for you. I chat with Vincent Hazenboom, host of the How to Heart Show, about helping men reconnect to their hearts and authentic selves. You’ll pick up what happens when expectations clash with reality, why consistency trumps perfection, and how handling setbacks can lead to personal growth. We also chat about tools that make the process easier and why building community matters. Tune in for a candid look at the ups and downs of keeping a podcast alive and meaningful.Connect With Vincent HazenboomWebsite: https://www.youtube.com/@HowToHeart/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vincent-hazenboom-46408123bIf 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/join⁠Chapters00:00 Starting Out and Facing Reality00:48 Introducing Vincent and His Mission01:22 Why the How to Heart Show Exists01:53 Early Challenges and Mindset Shifts02:48 Naming the Podcast—A Serendipitous Story04:08 Moving Past Perfectionism05:28 Handling Criticism and Finding Purpose06:02 Learning By Doing and Burnout07:12 Turning Hobby Into Business08:31 Behind the Scenes: Episode Workflow10:13 Finding Tools to Save Time13:57 How Podcasting Changed Vincent15:35 Taking Ownership and Setting Boundaries17:46 Keys to Growing an Audience18:56 Letting Go of Sunk Costs20:12 Adapting Tools and Processes21:11 When Podcasting Starts to Pay Off22:24 Focusing on Message Over Money23:01 Video vs Audio Podcasting24:27 Debating the Value of Audio Platforms29:51 Repurposing and Improving Older Episodes31:41 Investing in Quality and Growth33:36 Organic vs Paid Audience Building36:01 Vision for the Future38:24 Collaboration Over Competition40:09 Lessons in Self-Awareness41:12 The Confidence Shift43:30 One Listener’s Email Changed Everything44:05 Helping Those Ready for Change46:45 Reflecting on Personal Growth49:14 Compassion, Patience, and the Power of Connection51:01 Final Thoughts and Invitation

If you’ve ever wondered what it actually takes to launch and sustain a podcast, this episode is for you. I sit down with James Walters, host of A Joyful Rebellion, to talk about stepping into podcasting from a career in storytelling through photography. You’ll pick up how James navigated those first uncertain steps, what goes on behind the scenes from idea to launch, and why starting doesn’t mean having it all figured out. We also chat about guest strategies, tools, growth surprises, and the honest, sometimes messy journey of making your show your own. Tune in for candid insights, plenty of practical tips, and some encouragement if you’re ready to hit record yourself.Connect With James WaltersWebsite: https://ajoyfulrebellion.com/Personal Website: https://jameswalters.com/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/joinChapters00:00 When Podcasting Feels Overwhelming00:37 Welcome and James’ Introduction01:31 A Joyful Rebellion—The Podcast Idea02:29 Redefining Success and Fulfillment03:23 Stories of Change and Reinvention04:47 Following Others’ Paths05:09 Why James Started Podcasting06:02 From Photography to Podcast Conversations06:46 Naming the Genre: Self-Discovery07:47 The Importance of Self-Awareness08:59 How James Discovered Podcasting10:10 Finding a Podcast Community12:08 Launching A Joyful Rebellion13:42 In-Person vs. Online Podcasting14:23 Why Unique Stories Matter16:29 Discovering Unexpected Guests17:48 Regrets, Wishes, and Facing Fear18:20 Becoming the Author of Your Own Story19:50 Balancing Podcasting With Work20:50 Behind the Scenes: James’ Workflow21:42 What Podcast Conventions Don’t Teach22:23 Sourcing and Prepping for Guests23:52 Scheduling and Systems That Work24:29 Making Episodes From Meaningful Moments25:51 Editing, Launch Schedules, and Buffering26:54 The Value of Your Immediate Network27:54 Different Podcasting Styles, Same Passion28:44 Start Small—Don’t Wait for Perfect29:52 Software and Tools James Uses33:42 After Publishing: Thinking About Promotion34:03 Discovering and Scheduling Social Content35:27 Best Tools for Video and Clips36:35 Why Riverside Wins for Recording37:47 Affordability and Practical Tech Talk39:25 Reducing Friction for Indie Podcasters40:35 Podcast Growth Surprises and Numbers41:48 Guest Collaboration and Discovery42:35 The Challenge of Growing With Social Media43:19 Why Podcast Audiences Feel Loyal44:36 Crafting Titles: Boring vs. Clever46:08 Making Content Evergreen for Guests47:41 When Opinions Differ on Air49:09 Looking Ahead: Goals for the Podcast51:08 Scheduling, Backlogs, and Time Zone Mishaps53:22 Advice for Aspiring Podcasters54:51 The Power of Just Hitting Record55:43 Finding Consistency and Joy in Podcasting56:24 Where to Find A Joyful Rebellion57:08 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to create a podcast rooted in personal and spiritual growth, this episode is for you. I talk with Branch Isole, author and host of Patient Zero, about his journey from live presenting to podcasting and how he crafts content for truth-seekers. You’ll pick up insights on narrowing your audience, learn how Branch produces his shows with intention and simplicity, and discover his unique approach to scripting and collaboration. We also chat about letting purpose, not monetization, drive your show. Tune in for a grounded conversation about podcasting with meaning.Connect With Branch IsoleWebsite: https://branchisole.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/branch-isole-851433201If 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/joinChapters00:00 Behind the Podcast—Meet Branch00:19 The Meaning of Patient Zero01:14 Inspiration Behind the Show Name02:25 From Idea to Podcast Launch03:07 The Mission: Growth for Listeners03:54 Connecting With Truth-Seekers05:00 Defining a Unique Audience05:52 Success, Struggles, and Spirituality07:19 Getting Real About Spiritual Growth08:08 Facing Life’s Hard Holes09:26 Ending and Starting Over10:15 Why Podcasting Over Live Events11:15 Spreading the Word Online11:47 Growing Listeners With Social Media12:21 Branch’s Production Process13:31 Scriptwriting and Outlining14:23 Using Writing to Find Clarity15:11 Branch’s Editing Partner15:39 Podcast Production—Team Approach16:43 Keeping Things Simple17:16 Real Podcast Costs17:39 Monetization—Or Not18:26 What Success Means to Branch19:06 Purpose Over Profit20:06 Plans and Freedom in Podcasting21:12 Challenges with Past and Present Shows22:10 Transitioning to a Shorter Format22:28 Choosing Unique Guests23:04 Conversations That Stand Out24:08 Looking Toward More Episodes24:18 Where to Listen to Patient Zero24:42 How to Connect With Branch25:22 Thanks for Listening

If you’ve ever wondered how starting a podcast might help you work through your own challenges while helping others do the same, you’ll want to listen in. Teresa Rosario, creator of the Prosecco Queens Podcast, shares her story of launching a women’s empowerment show that’s also been a vital part of her personal healing journey. You’ll pick up insights on balancing solo episodes versus interviews, learn about podcasting through life’s transitions, and hear honest conversations around sustaining momentum and confidence. We also chat about the technical and creative pivots behind the scenes. Plus, you’ll see the real ups and downs of building a show while managing a busy life. Tune in for a heartfelt exploration of podcasting as both an outlet and a tool for growth.Connect With Teresa RosarioTikTok: ProseccoQueens PodcastInstagram: proseccoqueenspodcastYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ProseccoQueensPodcastIf 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/joinChapters00:00 Introductions and Podcast Name00:28 What Is the Prosecco Queens Podcast?00:56 Finding the Podcast on YouTube01:35 Early Days and SEO Hurdles02:13 Three Years of Podcasting02:39 From Duo to Solo Host03:10 Evolving Platforms and Consistency Challenges04:07 Audio vs Video Episodes05:00 Why Go Off Camera for Solos?05:21 Authenticity and Being “On”06:18 Treating Guest Shows Differently06:43 Technical Hiccups and Learning Curves08:08 Building a Personal Brand08:29 Social Channels and Promotion09:03 Prioritizing the Podcast09:50 Managing Expectations and Motivation10:42 Listener Feedback That Fuels the Show11:18 Hiatus and Life Focus12:17 New Website and Branding Challenges13:26 Guest Appearances and Staying Visible14:04 How the Podcast Started15:24 Healing Through Podcasting16:29 Balancing Rest, Reflection, and Return18:28 Podcast as a Platform for Growth20:01 Family Support to Keep Going20:58 Monetization Realities21:41 Teresa’s Professional Background22:41 Part-Time Work and Podcast Goals24:52 Confidence as the Problem to Solve26:51 Reaching More Than Just Women28:00 How Confidence Shapes Our Lives29:55 Staying Flexible With Your Podcast30:55 Future Hopes and Business Dreams32:12 DIY Website Building33:51 Starting an Email List35:46 Juggling Priorities and Asking for Help36:28 The Personal Benefits of Podcasting37:59 Podcasting as a Tool for Healing40:08 Inspiration From Podcast Guests40:36 My Production Workflow and Tools42:51 Podcasting Expenses and Subscriptions44:05 Finding Cheaper Options45:12 Advice to New Podcasters46:50 Where To Find Teresa and Her Show

If you've ever wondered how to build an engaging B2B podcast with lasting impact, this episode is for you. I sit down with Brandi Starr, host of Revenue Rehab, to talk about how her show has supported both her consultancy and personal brand. You'll pick up practical insights on evolving podcast formats, the realities of B2B podcast listenership, and how to create content that resonates with your audience. We also chat about balancing a niche show with broader goals, and the value of leaning into both feedback and process improvements. Plus, Brandi shares advice for fellow podcasters on purposeful growth. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at sustaining a B2B podcast.Connect With Brandi StarrWebsite: https://tegrita.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandistarrIf 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/joinChapters00:00 Welcome and Introduction00:19 Meet Brandi Starr and Revenue Rehab00:26 The Inspiration to Start a Podcast00:36 Launching a Podcast During the Pandemic01:13 What Tegrada Does02:00 A Remote Team Across US and Canada02:25 Release Schedule and YouTube Strategy03:33 Going Live Versus On-Demand04:08 Evolving the Podcast Workflow05:05 Changes Over Three Years05:45 Moving from Streamyard to Riverside07:24 Introducing Three Episode Formats08:52 Why Format Evolution Matters10:06 Lessons Learned and Audience Feedback11:31 Understanding B2B Podcast Numbers13:04 Success Metrics for Niche Shows14:48 Measuring Podcast Impact15:43 Brandi’s Role Before and After Podcasting16:27 Building Content as COO17:36 Personal Brand vs Company Brand18:12 Community Involvement and Speaking19:51 Leveraging Old and New Channels21:01 Staying Stress-Free and Balanced22:02 Recent Motivational Speaking22:34 Where Brandi Shares Content23:11 Social Channels for Professional and Personal Content23:36 Primary Podcast Purpose23:49 Measuring Awareness and Impact25:41 The Podcast’s Report Card26:53 How Consulting Accelerated Growth28:11 The Role of Support and Time Commitment30:38 Minimal Editing, Maximum Output31:53 Choosing a Podcast Category33:13 Niche Positioning and Category Leadership35:21 Final Thoughts and Advice for B2B Podcasters37:38 Closing and Call to Action

If you’ve ever wondered how a podcast can grow from humble beginnings to reaching listeners around the globe, this episode is for you. Join T.S. Wright as he shares what it was like starting not one but two podcasts, God Centered Concept and Kingdom Crossroads, after decades in ministry and discipleship. You'll pick up practical lessons on balancing deep spiritual content with everyday accessibility, hear about technical hurdles and how he overcame them, and get sincere insights into what "success" really means as a faith-driven podcaster. We also chat about the joys and challenges of shifting from guest to host, connecting across cultures, and how podcasting can amplify your mission outside traditional church walls. Plus, you’ll hear T.S.’s advice for anyone looking to share their own story. Tune in for a warm, honest conversation about faith, storytelling, and finding your voice.Connect With T.S. WrightWebsite: https://godcenteredconcept.comIf 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/joinChapters00:00 Finding Your Voice—Interviewing Ratios00:23 Introducing T.S. Wright’s Podcast Journey00:46 Two Podcasts—Origins and Focus01:21 Stepping Into Kingdom Crossroads01:43 Called to Podcasting After Years in Ministry01:57 Visions, Writing, and the Podcasting Call02:40 From Guest to Host—Taking Over a Show03:29 Launching God Centered Concept03:57 The Significance of April Beginnings04:09 Answering the Call—Why Start a Podcast?04:56 God’s Prompting and Gentle Nudges05:15 Biggest Early Podcast Challenges05:53 Facing Technical Setbacks06:20 Solving Content and Sound Issues06:47 Friends, Mics, and Audio Upgrades07:21 From Audacity to Riverside—Editing Journey07:38 Early Uploads—Choosing Podcast Platforms08:03 Learning from Mentors—The Pastor Bob Influence08:38 Balancing Multiple Shows—A Year’s Reflection09:08 Pausing One Show to Grow as a Podcaster09:42 Reviving a Podcast—Lessons from Guesting10:35 Audiences Rejoin—Explosive Growth11:21 Global Listenership—and Surprising Countries12:20 Technology Changes the Reach13:01 Social Media and Spreading the Message13:31 The Backstory of Kingdom Crossroads’ Name14:53 Building a Brand—The God Centered Concept15:35 Accessible Teaching—Deep Topics Made Simple16:57 High School Teaching Transfers to Podcasting17:47 The Art of Repetition and Simplifying Concepts18:46 Practicing What You Teach19:13 Author Advantages—Refining Messages20:03 Discipleship Roots—A Foundation for Podcasting20:33 Podcasting’s Role in Modern Discipleship21:36 Going Beyond the Church Walls22:06 Guest Versus Host—Learning the Difference22:34 Interviewing Ratios and Simplifying Messages23:20 Editing Insights—The Visual Waveform24:08 Learning to Help Guests Shine24:31 Most Humbling Lesson as New Host25:13 What I’d Tell My Podcast Beginner Self25:59 Podcasting Breaks Down Barriers26:29 The Global Classroom—Learning from Guests27:21 Defining Podcast Success—Beyond the Numbers28:26 The Obedience Story—Impact Beyond the Crowd29:51 Hidden Victories—Measuring True Success31:12 Podcasting as Living Epistle32:25 Intentional Obedience Versus Box-Checking33:36 Connection Over Perfection34:22 Advice for Aspiring Faith Podcasters35:55 Looking Ahead—Expanding the Vision37:06 Podcasts on the Road—Live From History37:38 How to Listen and Connect With T.S. Wright39:14 Wrapping Up—Inviting the Listener In

If you’ve ever wondered how podcasts can blend unique passions with professional expertise, this episode is for you. I sit down with Anne Angelo Webb, host of the Animal Intuitive Channel and podcast, where animal communication meets mental health insights. You’ll pick up wisdom on tackling technical podcasting challenges, hear how Anne amplified her voice on YouTube and audio platforms, and learn the ways podcasting has helped her business grow. We also chat about finding fulfillment through helping listeners—and how building in small steps adds up over the years. Plus, Anne shares personal stories, from meaningful interviews to lessons in self-care as a creator. Tune in for grounded inspiration, whether you’re starting out or just feeling stuck.Connect With Anne Angelo WebbWebsite: https://intuitivetouchanimalcare.comYouTube: Animal Intuitive ChannelPodcast: The Animal Intuitive ShowIf 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/joinChapters00:00 How Podcasting Grew Anne’s Business00:45 Meet Anne Angelo Webb and Her Journey02:01 Launching the Animal Intuitive Podcast03:12 Transitioning from Audio to Video04:05 Early Technical Hurdles and Growth05:25 Teaching Animal Communication to the Public06:15 Overcoming Technology—Then and Now07:35 The Evolution of Video Podcasting08:10 Listener Feedback That Stands Out09:08 Integrating True Crime and Animal Advocacy10:45 Bringing Awareness to Animal Welfare Issues11:36 Lessons Learned from Early Mistakes13:15 Behind the Scenes of an Episode14:54 Scripting, Recording, and Workflow15:56 Blending Mental Health and Animal Work17:44 How Interviewing Builds Better Listening18:33 A Media Career Pivot to Podcasting20:09 Meaningful Listener Stories and Interviews21:52 Supporting Working Dogs and Charities23:08 Building a Mission-Driven Platform24:10 How Podcasting Has Changed Me25:55 Reframing the Meaning of “Success”27:29 Podcasting as an Educational Tool28:55 From Tech Skills to On-Camera Confidence29:44 Facing Discouragement and Keeping Faith31:02 Self-Care and Boundaries for Podcasters32:53 Advice for New and Struggling Podcasters34:53 The Value of Open Conversations35:45 Looking Forward—Goals and Growth36:48 Exploring Tougher, Broader Topics38:38 Reflections on Hosting Multiple Guests39:49 Closing Thoughts and Where to Find Anne

If you’ve ever wondered how to create a podcast that truly empowers people—and what it takes to keep going when the metrics don’t look impressive—this conversation is for you. You’ll meet Jovonnie Ford, coach and host of the Empowered Plates, Empowered Lives podcast, as she shares why she started her show and how she connects food, healing, and personal stories. You’ll pick up ideas for making your podcast more engaging, hear insights on building a newsletter and community outside social media, and get relatable advice for navigating podcasting’s inevitable ups and downs. Plus, we talk practical tools, setting up systems, and staying true to your message. Tune in for the real stories behind the mic.Connect With Jovonnie FordWebsite: https://www.forwardvibrations.me/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/joinChapters00:00 Struggling With Too Many Platforms00:47 Welcome to My Podcast Story01:08 Meet Jovonnie Ford and Her Mission01:37 Food as Medicine, Not Just Diets02:48 Discovering Healing Through Nutrition03:13 Signature Question—Meals With Heroes03:59 Historical Meals and Personal Reflections05:02 Family Inspiration and Memorable Dishes06:06 How Jovonnie Builds Community With Food06:43 Hosting With Real, Thoughtful Questions07:17 Getting Beyond Guest Scripts08:07 Embracing Choice and Comfort Meals09:11 Food Experiences and Deeper Conversations09:46 The Podcast Origin Story10:24 Why Empowerment Matters11:30 Breaking Victim Mindset Cycles12:21 Small Changes, Big Healing13:01 Guests Shape the Empowerment Platform13:41 Professionals Join the Conversation15:00 Reflecting on Podcast Growth16:16 Milestones Worth Celebrating16:37 Podcasting Reveals Who We Are16:54 From Awkward Beginnings to Episode 10017:22 Advice for New Podcasters18:06 The Value of Guesting on Other Shows18:44 Biggest Challenges—Is This Valuable?19:47 Trusting Your Voice and Message20:19 Everyone Knows Something You Don’t21:53 Behind the Scenes—Producing the Show22:14 Recipes for Podcast Production23:07 Guest Workflow and Pre-Recording23:52 YouTube, RedCircle, and Release Rhythm24:26 Unedited Raw Podcasts—On Purpose25:57 Clipping and Sharing Strategically28:03 Dream Edits and Front-Loaded Hooks31:06 Choosing Streamyard vs. Riverside33:27 Multi-Platform Streaming Goals36:34 Managing Social Posting Burnout37:27 Scheduling, Automation, and Energy38:36 Rethinking Metrics and Conversions40:53 Shifting Toward Newsletters and Email42:01 Repurposing Content for More Reach44:05 Long Form vs. Short Form Dilemma45:12 Creating Value in Every Format47:41 Moving Beyond Social Algorithms48:54 Building Direct Community With Email50:08 Growing a List and Sending Newsletters52:14 First Steps—Intentional, Personal Email53:12 Blog, Podcast, and Repurposing Strategies55:02 Engagement and Responding to Listeners56:48 Handling Guest Rejection With Grace58:59 Being Enough for Your Audience61:06 Messaging Over Metrics—Audience Matters65:17 Evolving, Systems, and Looking Forward71:07 Where to Find Jovonnie and the Podcast72:04 Wrapping Up and Newsletter Invite

If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to start a podcast rooted in personal experience and purpose, you’ll want to hear this conversation with J. Rosemarie Francis. She shares the origins of her show, how real-life struggles and a desire to help other single moms inspired her, and how she overcame self-doubt to finally publish her first episode. You’ll pick up her honest thoughts on growth, monetization, and using podcasting as a means for connection and change. We also chat about the tools she uses, why imposter syndrome can hit even experienced public speakers, and how she’s supporting other women to tell their own stories. Tune in for a hopeful, practical listen—especially if you’re thinking of starting something heartfelt.Connect With J. Rosemarie FrancisWebsite: https://jrosemarie.comIf 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/joinChapters00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro00:24 J. Rosemarie’s Journey—Author, Mom, Podcaster00:44 Two Podcasts, One Mission01:32 The Spark: Support for Single Moms01:41 Discovery Group and Healing02:21 Lessons From Group Therapy03:01 Finding God as a Father04:12 Breaking Shame and Church Myths05:15 Taking the Leap to Podcasting06:00 Battling Negativity and Imposter Syndrome06:48 Six Years to Hit Publish07:19 Recording the First Episode08:04 Early Interviews and Community08:54 The Shift to Solo Episodes09:56 Short Solo Episodes and Finding Voice10:37 Seven Years In—Sticking With It11:20 Tools of the Podcast Trade—Second Show11:58 From Learning to Mentoring12:35 Podcast Club and Building Community13:48 Impact Beyond Canada14:51 From Idea to Published Episode15:52 Letting Guests Shape the Show16:38 Favorite Tools: Riverside, NotebookLM, Canva18:46 Why Money Wasn’t the Goal…At First20:00 A Book Changes the Perspective20:52 How She Grew Her Listener Base21:59 Future Goals: More Stories, More Social Topics23:50 Helping Moms Tell Their Story24:40 Where to Find the Podcasts25:11 Closing and Thank You

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like to launch a podcast fueled by your own healing journey, this episode is for you. I chat with Anthony Guastella, host of the Anthony Guastella Wellness Podcast, about how battling Lyme disease inspired him to help others through audio. You’ll pick up lessons on staying motivated, creating routines that support your podcast energy, and the importance of mission-driven content. We also chat about growing your audience from scratch, balancing monetization with integrity, and using podcasting as a springboard for personal development and speaking gigs. Tune in for honest insight and a behind-the-scenes look at building a wellness show from the ground up.Connect With Anthony GuastellaWebsite: https://anthonyguastella.com/LinkedIn: Search Anthony GuastellaIf 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/joinChapters00:00 From Diagnosis to Podcasting Mission00:48 Learning Wellness Through Lyme Disease01:37 Finding Inspiration and Overcoming Obstacles02:10 Early Days With No Technical Experience03:01 Recording the First Episode03:33 Repurposing Writing Into Podcast Content03:55 Mastering Energy and Communication05:02 Balancing Wellness and Content Creation06:01 Gaining the First Listeners07:12 Growing Audience With Humility08:02 Podcast Creation Behind the Scenes09:21 Turning Life Lessons Into Episodes10:09 Favorite Tools: From Skype to Riverside10:34 Learning From Podcasters Paradise11:56 Celebrating Milestones and Staying Present12:44 The Power of Sharing Your Story13:08 Listener Feedback and Family Pride14:22 Moments of Doubt and Staying the Course15:55 Overcoming Challenges: Sleep and Pain17:07 Growth Comes From Perseverance18:08 Building Resilience Amid Difficulties19:07 Choosing to Grow Through Challenges19:45 Podcast Monetization and Affiliates21:04 Staying Aligned With Integrity22:26 Expanding to YouTube and Shorts23:27 Being Discoverable Where Listeners Search24:00 Why You Need to Truly Care24:22 Personal Growth Through Podcasting25:31 Expanding Network and Lessons Learned26:28 Staying True to Purpose and Learning From Failure27:10 Using the Podcast to Land Speaking Gigs29:00 Reaching Out to Event Organizers30:14 Learning and Adding Value30:41 Where to Find Anthony Guastella Wellness31:03 Website, Coaching, and Articles31:45 Why Your Story Matters

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like to start a relationship-focused podcast, this episode is for you. I sit down with Abhishek Joshi, host of "Beyond the Obvious," as he shares how he helps couples work through challenges and why he chose this niche. You’ll pick up tips on finding the right guests, building a thoughtful production workflow, and using AI and social media to grow your audience. We also chat about the meaning of podcast success and how to make your show truly memorable for guests and listeners. Tune in for an honest look behind the scenes.Connect With Abhishek JoshiYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@abhishek_v_joshiSpotify: Search "Beyond the Obvious with Abhishek Joshi"Apple Podcasts: Search "Beyond the Obvious with Abhishek Joshi"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/joinChapters00:00 Real Journeys Behind the Mic00:23 Meet Abhishek Joshi00:56 Podcast Topics and Unique Format01:33 How Old Is the Show?01:42 Finding the Podcast Name02:32 Why “Beyond the Obvious”?03:33 Early Challenges and Guest Selection04:43 Dialing In the Guest Filter05:08 Behind the Scenes: Production Workflow07:18 Pre-Interviews and Guest Experience08:11 Handling Guest Fit and Awkward Moments09:31 Podcasting on the Fly11:01 The Power of Listening as a Host12:06 Growing with Shorts and Socials12:48 Lessons from Successful Creators13:44 Does the Podcast Make Money?14:29 Podcast as a Lead Generator16:00 Using AI Tools in Podcasting17:52 Hosting Platform Choices19:59 How Coaching Skills Helped20:38 Essential Skills Gained as a Host22:04 Researching and Surprising Guests23:28 The “First Time I” Question Game24:12 Creating Reusable Guest Formats25:16 Future Podcast Growth Ideas26:53 Adding Guest Experiences Virtually27:30 Turning Podcast Memories into Gifts28:26 How to Stand Out Remotely29:49 Doubling Down on Research31:01 Defining Success—For Host and Listener32:52 The Real Goal for Audience Change33:52 Advice for New Podcasters35:53 Where to Find Abhishek’s Podcast36:43 Thanks for Listening and What’s Next

If you’ve ever wondered how to keep your podcast momentum going or how podcasters juggle building shows with purpose, this episode is for you. I chat with Tony Bradshaw, host of The Millionaire Choice podcast, about his candid journey with show launches, burnout, and finding meaning in each episode. You’ll pick up real-world tips for staying consistent, insights into promoting and monetizing your podcast without burning out, and why sharing honest stories matters so much. We also chat about practical workflows and what it takes to keep podcasting sustainable long-term. Tune in for a refreshingly real take on podcast growth and mission.Connect With Tony BradshawWebsite: https://higherpeakmarketing.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonybradshaw/Website : https://www.tonybradshaw.com/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/joinChapters00:00 What Drives the Show00:23 Meet Tony Bradshaw01:02 Launching Multiple Podcasts01:56 Upcoming Podcast Projects02:16 Life-Changing Guest Stories03:28 Solving Problems Through Podcasting04:00 Purpose of Wealth Event05:32 Connecting Wealth and Impact06:05 Completing the Giving Cycle07:01 The Formula for Podcast Success08:01 Why Most Podcasters Quit08:36 Getting and Leveraging Reviews08:46 Learning from the Podcast Community09:30 The Power of Monetizing with Teams10:14 Resources and Scaling Up11:00 Production, Booking, and Promotion Challenges12:01 Breaking Through Mental Blocks12:33 Learning by Doing (and Paying for Help)13:56 Early Podcast Bottlenecks15:12 Listening Back and Surprising Confidence16:35 Tools and Tech Evolution17:08 Current Workflow and Platforms18:06 Self-Promotion and Ad Strategies19:02 Why High-Ticket Offers Work Best20:48 Speed, Progress, and Client Growth21:40 Building the Millionaire Planner App22:51 Making 1% Progress Concrete24:05 Breaking Out of Limiting Patterns25:25 Marriage Podcast—Maybe Someday26:27 Documenting the Messy Middle27:25 Healing Family and Money Habits29:40 Setting the Bar as a Parent31:02 Video-First Podcasting Shift32:38 Platforms, Tools, and Social Clips34:53 High-Quality Clips vs AI Editing36:05 Promoting Your Show for Free37:30 Optimizing for Discovery38:26 Highest-Leverage Growth39:11 The Importance of Consistency40:10 List Building and Newsletter Value41:03 Building the Right Promotion Habits42:22 Leveraging Virtual Assistants43:32 Asking for Reviews—And Getting Them44:09 Joining the Podcast Community44:50 Organizing Local Podcast Events46:17 Mics, Interfaces, and Audio Choices47:47 Health and Tech Habits for Podcasters49:46 Final Podcasting Advice51:27 Find and Connect With Tony Bradshaw52:16 Closing Thoughts and Next Steps

In this episode we talk about what it’s really like to grow a podcast from scratch while juggling a business and embracing new tech, you’ll enjoy hearing from Dan Hafner of TechBytes. You’ll pick up useful lessons on consistency, building confidence behind the mic, and why Dan shifted from personal growth tips to technology topics. We also chat about using podcasting as a resource for business, how AI and no-code tools are changing the workflow, and creative ways to keep old episodes fresh. Plus, Dan shares his honest thoughts on keeping podcasting simple and sustainable. Tune in to find some new perspective for your own podcasting journey.Connect With Dan HafnerWebsite: https://dappernocode.comIf 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/joinChapters00:00 The Story Behind the Voice00:24 Who Is Dan Outside Podcasting?01:10 Hobbies, Community, and Wine-Making01:45 Navigating Loss and Gratitude02:33 The Entrepreneur’s Road to Podcasting03:32 Why Podcasting Over Blogging or YouTube?04:25 Embracing Unscripted Episodes05:10 Podcast as Personal Outlet05:43 Authentic Conversations Over Scripts06:10 Behind the Name: TechBytes07:25 From Personal Tips to Tech Focus08:15 Merging Tech, Business, and Self-Development09:28 What Drives the Podcast Now?10:15 How “Bites” Shapes the Show Format11:48 The Struggle with Consistency13:00 Tools That Make Podcasting Easier14:06 Why Anchor (Now Spotify for Creators)15:27 Missing Features and Platform Choices16:30 Putting Yourself Out There: Early Fears17:28 Gaining Confidence Through Practice18:22 Lessons from Pausing the Podcast19:50 Navigating Growth Beyond Numbers20:10 How Podcasting Builds Business Skills22:01 Relationship-Building and Doors Opened23:50 Defining Podcast Success for Yourself25:44 Beyond Downloads: How Dan Measures Growth27:45 Parallels Between No-Code and Podcasting Tools29:30 Repurposing Podcast Content Creatively31:13 Dreaming Up Smart Podcast Tools34:02 Rethinking Old Episodes and Guests36:46 Podcasting’s Unique Place in Our Lives38:08 Has AI Made Podcasting Too Easy?40:12 Podcasts Versus Video for Audience Connection42:21 Building Trust and Authority with Audio43:24 What’s Next for TechBytes45:09 Advice for New and Struggling Podcasters46:42 Where to Find Dan and TechBytes47:05 Closing and Newsletter Invitation

In this episode we talk about how a passion can turn into a powerful tool for healing and connection, this episode is for you. I sit down with Jenny C. Cohen, host of the Dance to Heal podcast, as she shares how dance helped her reclaim her body and joy through midlife, motherhood, and even breast cancer. You'll pick up the story behind her show's rebrand, practical tips for growing a podcast, and favorite tools that make production smoother. We also chat about staying visible online and creating deeper listener connections. Tune in for thoughtful, down-to-earth advice and inspiration.Connect With Jenny C. CohenWebsite: https://danceandheal.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dancetohealpodcastIf 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/joinChapters00:00 Kicking Things Off: Jenny’s Story01:06 Discovering Dance in Adulthood02:42 Life as an Occupational Therapist03:32 Teaching Movement Without Doing It04:16 Immigration and Artistic Sacrifice05:20 Raising Athletes at Home05:38 From Broadway Dance to Belly Dance06:31 Finding Empowerment Through Belly Dance07:09 Dancing Through Breast Cancer08:01 Healing: Outside In vs. Inside Out08:40 How the Podcast Evolved09:00 Embracing Alternative Healing10:02 The Five Senses in Dance10:26 Why the Podcast Changed Focus10:29 Early Days and Getting Found11:14 Launch Hurdles and SEO Lessons12:05 Breaking Down Podcast Production Costs13:00 Shifting From Outsourcing to Family13:43 Redesigning With Visibility in Mind14:54 What Actually Gets You Found16:10 The Power of Owning Your Name Online17:13 Behind the Scenes of Launching18:20 The Tools and Platforms That Helped19:52 Repurposing, Clips, and Shorts21:02 Why She Pays for Certain Tools22:00 Comparing Zoom, CapCut, Riverside23:26 Riverside’s Editing and Workflow Perks24:08 Design, Transcripts, and Production25:17 Automation, AI, and Content Creation25:17 Going Live and Multistreaming26:15 Why OBS Isn’t Always Worth It27:02 Time Versus Money in Podcasting28:45 Jenny’s Guest Invitation Process29:12 Current Publishing and Editing Workflow30:23 Keeping in Touch With Guests31:23 Podcast Name: Why It Matters32:35 Growth at PodFest and Community33:26 Rebranding With Personal Meaning36:53 Growing Audience Through SEO and Shorts37:38 Solo Episodes and Finding Your Voice38:03 Hosts Deserve the Spotlight, Too39:49 Growing as a Host and Speaker41:19 Technical Fumbles and Rolling With It42:55 Podcasting Is Never Perfect44:51 Looking to the Future: VR and More46:46 On Building Community and Offerings48:01 The Value of a Newsletter49:51 Plans for Monetization50:27 Thank You and Where to Listen

In this episode we talk about what it really takes to build a podcast from scratch and stay motivated for years, you’ll enjoy hearing NaRon Tillman’s story. He shares the evolution of his podcast, his journey from uncertainty to landing a production deal, and how mindset shapes every episode. You’ll pick up lessons about learning on the fly, focusing on value over metrics, and the realities of solo podcasting. We also chat about building trust with your audience, workflow systems, and intentional growth. Plus, you’ll hear practical advice for anyone thinking about starting, or stuck in the middle, of their own podcast journey. Tune in and find inspiration for your next step.Connect With NaRon TillmanWebsite: https://www.walkinvictory.me/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/na-ron-tillman-013902350/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/joinChapters00:00 The Podcast Origin Story00:22 Meet NaRon Tillman00:36 Inside the “New Baby” Podcast01:10 Walking Victory—The First Podcast01:22 From Basement Beginnings01:53 Podcasting at a Mets Game02:41 Starting Without Knowing03:15 Interviewing for Victory04:38 Why This Podcast Niche?05:42 Guests Who Overcome Obstacles06:26 Early Technical Challenges07:01 The First Episode: Uncertainty07:20 Politics and Going Off-Topic07:35 Landing a Production Deal09:00 The Spreaker Call10:14 The Shift to Unlimited Production11:05 Taking Podcasting Seriously12:19 Thoughts on Podcast Hosting Platforms13:04 Consistency and Content Volume14:00 Six Episodes a Week14:40 Evergreen Content Strategy15:28 Podcasting Can Be Lonely15:51 Metrics vs. Meaning16:18 Enjoying the Interviews17:07 The Lead Magnet Debate17:35 Marketing Without Selling18:39 Crafting Deep Conversations19:07 Curiosity Marketing20:00 Building Trust and Value21:29 Not Selling—Building Relationships22:00 Real Coaches vs. Hobbyists22:27 The Low Bar for Consistency23:17 The Power of Showing Up24:34 Creativity vs. Competition25:05 Impact or Just Numbers?26:07 Choosing Transformational Topics27:00 Learning from Past Mistakes28:06 Flowers vs. Seeds: Growth Metaphor29:04 The Trap of Inconsistency29:39 Finding Your Topic of Influence30:10 Love What You Talk About30:33 Mindset: The Foundation31:11 Starting Despite Circumstances32:06 Internal Awakening—Book Teaser33:18 Invisible Branding and Podcast Energy34:35 Lessons from Experimentation35:38 Striving for Excellence36:10 Tools and Workflow37:14 Minimalist Podcasting38:07 Descript for Recording and Editing39:00 Platform Parity and Competition40:01 Hosting and Distribution41:08 YouTube and Blogging Strategy41:36 Wrapping Up the Story

If you've ever wondered how a niche podcast can open doors in your industry and help you grow personally, this episode is for you. I sit down with Desai Link from the Circus of Safety, a show tackling workplace safety with a lighter touch. You'll pick up insights about co-hosting from day one, organizing episode production, and learning from technical challenges. We also chat about measuring success by enjoyment, how organic growth and industry events shape a podcast's reach, and the power of just starting—even if you're nervous. Plus, Desai shares how podcasting helped him manage public speaking anxiety. Tune in to hear a real, relatable journey in podcasting.Connect With Desai LinkWebsite: https://www.dynamichse.co.nz/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/desailinkTikTok: Search “Circus of Safety” on TikTokYouTube: Search “Circus of Safety” on YouTubeApple Podcasts, Spotify: Search “Circus of Safety” on your favorite appIf 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/joinChapters00:00 Welcome and Show Purpose00:21 Meet Desai Link—Circus of Safety00:33 Co-Hosting Origins and Inspiration00:54 Launching a Podcast Journey01:26 Two and a Half Years In01:33 Going Live on LinkedIn01:51 Sharing Podcast Workload02:45 Roles and Contributions03:14 Early Expectations03:29 Connecting with Practitioners04:05 Biggest Early Struggles04:12 Technical Hurdles Going Live05:02 First Time Feeling Like a Podcaster05:43 Growth Levers—Bringing in Guests06:25 Listener Engagement and Community07:07 Impactful Industry Recognition08:41 Changing Podcast Goals09:24 Release Cadence and Formats10:11 Real-Time Audience Interaction11:18 Guest Selection and Planning12:13 Interview Lessons Learned13:24 Tools for Consistency14:21 Remote Versus In-Person Recording15:53 Challenges and Organic Growth17:00 Podcast Benefits and Industry Opportunities18:31 Personal Growth Through Podcasting19:47 Measuring Success—Fun First20:18 Indirect Revenue Opportunities21:17 Building Relationships in the Industry22:47 Advice for New Podcasters23:25 Goals and Hopes for the Future23:41 Memories and Therapeutic Value24:15 Where to Find Circus of Safety25:01 Closing Remarks

If you’ve ever wondered what happens when a clinician becomes a patient—and then a podcaster—this episode is for you. Dr. Jeffrey Bone, host of To the Bone: Conversations on Pain, Illness, and Meaning, shares his journey from the therapy room to the world of podcasting after being diagnosed with a rare immune disorder. You'll pick up insights on transforming solo episodes into impactful storytelling, how chronic illness can influence the cadence and authenticity of your content, and creative ways to promote your podcast both online and organically. We also chat about the blend of psychology, philosophy, and lived experience, and the trade-offs involved in balancing a show with ongoing health challenges. Connect With Dr. Jeffrey BoneWebsite: https://www.drbone.live/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/joinChapters00:00 Opening—What Drives a Podcast Story00:42 Introducing Dr. Jeffrey Bone01:08 Dual Perspective—Clinician Becomes a Patient01:23 Collapse and Diagnosis—Illness Strikes Home02:03 Medical Dismissal and Challenge02:25 Fast-Tracked Diagnosis and Podcast Inspiration03:28 Hope for the Podcast—Lifeline for Listeners04:21 Mentorship and Finding One’s Voice04:59 Podcast Reality vs. Early Vision05:09 Solo Episodes—Cadence and Rhythm05:58 Podcast Setup and Workflow06:34 Raw, Honest Content vs. Polished Production07:03 ADHD and Editing Limitations07:33 Authenticity and Imposter Syndrome08:22 Preparing for Future Interviews09:01 Refining the Mic Persona09:20 Learning by Doing—Interview Growth09:44 Failure as Foundation10:15 Lessons from Imperfect Moments10:43 Interview Timeline—When Will Guests Join11:32 Psychology, Philosophy, Lived Experience12:51 Crafting the Podcast Around Experience13:07 Early Experiments—Finding the Audience14:06 Noise Online—Finding Your Tribe15:06 Building Solidarity in Podcasting15:47 The Power of Storytelling16:06 Podcasts as Evergreen Content16:47 Turning Listeners Into Audience16:52 Authentic Social Media Outreach17:50 Grassroots and Business Cards18:50 Organic Promotion—In-Person Connections19:19 Skeleton Branding—Standing Out19:31 Local Reach and Genuine Impact20:11 Authenticity and Feeling Awkward20:26 Sharing Without Shame21:02 Storytellers—Organizing the World21:36 Routines for Consistency21:47 Real-World Impact Keeps Going22:30 Research Workflow and Content Creation23:04 Preparing, Scripting, and Recording23:49 Balancing Script with Authenticity24:15 Clinician and Patient—Merging Perspectives25:26 Curious Questions and Story Soup25:52 Defining Success—Impact Over Numbers26:48 Connections With Listeners Matter Most27:17 Success Is a Human Response27:31 Trade-Offs—Self-Care and Podcasting28:13 Saying Yes, Saying No29:14 Encouraging Self-Care29:39 Long-Term Goals—Traveling for Stories30:08 Inspired by Anthony Bourdain30:51 Illness Culture Around the World31:36 Expanding Personal Story32:15 Overcoming Language Barriers32:55 Turning Project Into Social Change33:21 Telling Culture Through Illness33:39 Building a Useful Legacy34:16 Walking Each Other Home34:42 Phoenix Rising—Helping Others35:06 Host Support and Collaboration35:22 Guest’s Appreciation35:23 Host’s Perspective on Podcasting Journey36:03 Advice for New Podcasters37:05 Asking for Help—Community Support37:43 Closing Advice37:50 Connect With Dr. Jeffrey Bone38:23 Host’s Closing Remarks38:33 Episode Wrap-Up and Newsletter Invite

If you’ve ever wondered how a podcast can make artificial intelligence approachable for families, this episode is for you. Join me as I chat with Professor Dr. Anastassia Lauterbach, creator of the Romy and Robbie AI Entertainment Universe and host of AI Snacks with Romy and Robbie. Anastassia shares how her passion for AI literacy led her from writing a family-friendly book series to launching a podcast that demystifies complex technologies with warmth and humor. You’ll pick up insights on weaving engaging stories into educational content, find out how Anastassia manages her weekly episodes as an indie podcaster, and hear why she believes humor—and a British shorthair cat—can make AI stick with listeners of all ages. Connect With Anastassia LauterbachWebsite: http://www.aiedutainment.ai/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/romyandroby/Substack: https://substack.com/@invisibleinsights?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/joinChapters00:00 Welcome and Guest Introduction00:47 Introducing Anastassia Lauterbach00:53 What Is AI Snacks with Romy and Robbie?01:18 Storytelling Meets Science01:41 Blending Humor with Real AI02:09 Book Inspires the Podcast02:12 Launching and Growing the Show02:28 Podcast Format Evolves03:07 Feedback From a Growing Community03:46 Where the Listeners Gather04:17 Building on Instagram and LinkedIn04:51 Shifting to AI Education Roots05:36 Tying Episodes Back to the Book06:05 Branding and Reaching Families06:27 Why Cats and AI Work Together06:43 Making Complex AI Relatable07:28 Grandparents as AI Ambassadors08:03 Upcoming Books and New Adventures08:17 Translating Animal Language with AI08:49 Never Running Out of Ideas09:42 Challenging AI Myths10:23 AI's Evolving Architecture10:45 Real-World Applications in the Books11:03 From Music to Medicine: Impact of AI11:17 Interviewing Real Experts12:11 Behind the Scenes of an Episode12:55 Tech Trends Versus Hype13:16 Building for Learning, Not Selling13:50 Three Types of Episodes14:33 Spotlight on AI for Kids15:07 AI and Human Development15:20 Debating AGI Fears15:39 AI in Healthcare Explained16:33 Vector Basics with Data Leaders17:27 Demystifying ChatGPT17:45 Breaking Down AI Confusion18:08 Narrow Versus General AI19:15 Why Understanding Matters19:54 Exploring AI in Fiction20:39 Relating Sci-Fi to Real Tech20:57 Emphasizing Human Excellence22:01 Mastery in the Age of AI22:31 Partnering for Creativity23:32 Keeping Content Flexible23:36 Producing on Riverside23:55 Instagram Growth Secrets24:11 Working With a Social Media Editor24:17 Lessons Learned From Outsourcing25:13 Managing Inbound Opportunities25:40 Navigating LinkedIn as "Dr."26:14 Cultural Differences in Credentials26:35 Filtering Genuine Podcast Pitches27:19 Building Authentic Engagement27:39 Cat Content Converts Followers28:26 Prudent Startup Budgeting29:36 Remaining Indie and Authentic30:16 Raising the Bar for AI Literacy32:11 Cautionary Tales About AI “Experts”34:28 The Need for Better Tech Education35:08 Grounded, Up-Close Podcasting36:12 Plans for the Future37:01 Improving Production and Delivery38:29 Research for Each Guest39:16 Steadfast Weekly Publishing39:22 Expanding into Courses and Partnerships40:17 Supporting the Next Generation41:26 Where to Connect and Learn More42:50 Episode Close and Farewell

Most people don’t struggle with how to start a podcast. They struggle with starting at all.In this episode, Takilla Combs shares what really held her back from launching her podcast for years—and the simple shift that finally got her to hit record.We talk about fear, overthinking, and the pressure to be perfect. But more importantly, we break down what it actually takes to stay consistent once you start.Takilla also walks through how she runs her podcast behind the scenes, the systems she uses to stay organized, and how her show is already helping her grow her business.If you’ve been waiting for the “right time” to start your podcast, this episode will challenge that.Connect with GuestCheck out Takilla’s podcast:The Organized Life PodcastListen on your favorite platform or watch on YouTube.Her Website : https://www.theorganizedlifehq.com/masterclassJoin the NewsletterGet weekly podcast insights, behind-the-scenes lessons, and stories from real podcasters:👉 https://mypodcaststory.com/joinSubscribe and stay consistent with your podcast journey.Timestamps Chapters00:00 Welcome to My Podcast Story00:19 Meet Takilla Combs and what she does00:53 The idea behind her podcast02:05 Why it took years to start02:48 What finally made her take action03:39 The role of accountability05:11 Why accountability changes everything05:47 What “an organized life” really means07:18 Early challenges after starting08:09 Hitting record for the first time09:18 How she organizes her podcast workflow10:56 Behind the scenes tools and process14:42 How she is growing the podcast15:38 Using email and social media for growth16:58 Why one growth method isn’t enough18:14 Future plans speaking and writing a book19:21 Does the podcast make money20:09 How the podcast generates income21:20 What she would do differently22:05 Feedback from listeners22:49 Plans to rebrand her business23:57 Advice for new podcasters24:52 Where to find Takilla25:29 Final thoughts and wrap up

If you’ve ever wondered how a podcast can go from a simple internal recording to an engaging show loved by a community, this episode is for you. I sit down with Laura Patterson to explore “What’s Your Edge?”—her show that started with metaphors and has evolved into a platform for real, practical stories from her business community. You’ll pick up some actionable ideas on how to use metaphors and storytelling to simplify tough or abstract topics for your own listeners. We also chat about the realities and logistics of moving from solo episodes to guest interviews, and how that shift can add value and new challenges to your workflow. Plus, if you’re thinking about your podcast’s purpose, Laura shares advice on staying clear about who you’re serving and why that matters more than big download numbers. Tune in for down-to-earth tips on content planning, pacing yourself, and building systems that fit your life.Connect With Laura PattersonWebsite: https://visionedgemarketing.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurapattersonvem/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/joinChapters00:00 Origins of VisionEdge Marketing00:48 Naming the Podcast & Its Edge01:28 What VisionEdge Marketing Really Does02:22 Navigating Workspaces and Distractions03:11 Industries They Serve & Customer Focus04:09 The Surprising Birth of What’s Your Edge05:26 Using Metaphors to Teach06:08 Running Out of Metaphors—Evolution Begins06:40 Shifting To Guest Conversations07:18 Customer-Led Podcast Growth07:56 From Idea To Production Process08:56 Guest Interviews vs. Monologue Episodes09:39 Early Fears and Lessons Hitting Record10:32 Transitioning Into Interview Format11:49 The Real Power of Conversation13:07 Letting Guests Be the Heroes15:45 Finding Relatable Stories Through Guests17:28 How Laura Chooses Her Guests18:48 Preventing Surprises: How They Prep20:30 Learning Podcasting Beyond Audio22:03 Colleagues Asking For Podcasting Advice23:03 Biggest Challenges with Growth and Guests24:03 Expanding the “What’s Your Edge” Host Circle25:58 Tapping Guest Networks for Referrals27:14 Podcasting’s Shift Towards Video & TV28:05 YouTube and Cross-Promotion28:39 Proudest Moments as a Podcaster30:28 Defining Podcast Success31:40 Building Systems & Content Calendars33:18 Resourcing Indie vs. Team Podcasts33:34 What Laura Would Have Done Differently34:58 Best Advice for New Podcasters36:05 Defining Consistency on Your Terms38:23 Lightning Round: First Podcasts & More39:39 Dream Guest and Podcast Style41:07 Favorite Tools Laura Relies On42:28 Transitioning to New Podcast Tools43:34 Barriers to Change and New Tech46:25 Most Embarrassing Podcast Moments50:15 Final Reflections & Staying Helpful51:45 Connecting with Laura Patterson

If you’ve ever felt the tension between your personal life and your creative work, you’ll love hearing Wanda Thibodeaux’s story. In this episode, Wanda shares how she started “Faithful on the Clock” not to build a brand, but to help others live their faith honestly at work and in life. We talk about what it’s really like to host a podcast while navigating healing, the practical behind-the-scenes workflows, and how she got clear on her message and audience over time. Two big takeaways: you’ll learn why patience and evolving your message are essential if you’re running a podcast solo; plus, you’ll get a look at the exact biweekly workflow Wanda uses to keep production quality high with limited resources. This episode is full of real talk around juggling creativity, life, and faith—so if you’ve ever questioned your direction or felt overwhelmed, you’ll find encouragement and practical tips here.Connect With Wanda ThibodeauxWebsite: https://faithfulontheclock.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wandathibodeaux/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/joinChapters00:00 Wanda’s Podcast Origin Story00:47 Naming Faithful on the Clock01:25 Early Podcast Name Choices02:01 Initial Impressions and Show-Up Jokes02:47 Podcast Age and Starting Point03:20 Writing and Expanding Communication04:14 Faith and Work: The Central Theme06:00 Explaining the Podcast’s Purpose06:36 Listener Takeaways and Surety07:55 Moving From Checklists to Encouragement09:17 Trauma Recovery’s Influence10:56 Questioning Qualifications and Sustainability12:33 Gaining Confidence and Routine13:42 Spiritual Depth and Hard Topics15:02 Getting Clear on Faith and Work Aligned16:23 Evolving the Message With Time17:15 Biweekly Production Rhythm17:49 Advice: Action Creates Clarity18:36 Rare “Epiphany” Moments—Puzzle Pieces20:07 Accepting Change and Pivoting21:25 Social Pressure and Patience22:39 Stress Around Waiting and Decisions24:06 Exploring Multiple Pathways24:47 Choosing a Biweekly Schedule25:46 Wanda’s Production Workflow27:34 Solo Episode Video Choices29:30 Audience Preferences and Episode Length31:57 Video vs. Audio: Host Advice33:03 Example: Joy by a Thousand Jolts34:28 Title Choices and Listener Connection38:07 Podcast SEO and Platform Distribution41:39 Descriptions and Meeting Criteria44:38 Impact of Podcasting on Wanda45:42 Focusing on Message Over Self46:52 Connecting with Wanda47:31 Episode Wrap-Up and Listener Invitation

What if you started a podcast at 62 with no experience and turned it into a global success heard in over 190 countriesIn this episode of My Podcast Story, Scott Miller shares how he went from knowing nothing about podcasting to building The Lost Sci Fi Podcast into a long term asset that continues to grow in reach and revenueScott’s journey is not about overnight success. It is about commitment, consistency, and playing the long gameHe reveals how he leveraged public domain content, stayed consistent for years without making money, and eventually built a system that now generates income while continuing to growYou will learn what most podcasters get wrong, why patience is your biggest advantage, and how to create a podcast that compounds over timeIf you are serious about podcasting, this episode will completely shift how you think about growth, monetization, and longevityConnect with Scott MillerPodcast The Lost Sci Fi PodcastWebsite: https://lostscifi.com/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/joinChapters00:00 Introduction to Scott Miller01:00 Why podcasting is a long game02:00 The advantage of having more episodes03:00 How The Lost Sci Fi Podcast started04:00 Ready fire aim vs overthinking05:00 Starting at 62 and committing for life06:00 Behind the scenes of audio fiction production08:00 How Scott spends 10 to 12 hours per episode09:30 Using Headliner and YouTube for growth11:00 Dominating search with multiple videos13:00 Building a website for every episode15:00 Why consistency builds trust with listeners17:00 Monetization after two years of zero income19:00 Switching to Acast and first revenue jump21:00 Growing from 350 dollars to consistent income23:00 Keeping podcast costs extremely low24:30 Turning public domain into long term income27:00 Why most people quit too early29:00 The importance of naming your podcast correctly31:00 Creating content people are already searching for33:00 Consistency and audience expectations35:00 Passion as a competitive advantage37:00 Showing up even when you do not feel like it39:00 Final advice for podcasters

What happens when your podcast starts without direction… and then finds a powerful purpose?In this episode, Kim Patton shares her journey from creating a general book podcast to building Book Therapy—a show designed to encourage foster and adoptive families through carefully curated insights from books.We talk about the reality of starting messy, why most creators struggle with clarity, and how understanding your audience changes everything. Kim also opens up about storytelling, writing with intention, and how reading became her personal form of therapy.If you’ve ever felt scattered in your content or unsure who you’re creating for, this episode will give you a new way to think about your podcast.What You’ll LearnWhy most podcasts fail to connect (and how to fix it)The power of choosing a clear audience over a broad ideaHow Kim turned her love for books into a niche podcastWhy your first episodes are supposed to feel like “first drafts”The difference between creating for yourself vs serving listenersHow to use storytelling intentionally in podcasting and writingWhy clarity makes content creation easier (not harder)Connect with Kim PattonWebsite: https://kimpatton.com/Podcast: Book TherapyIf 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/join00:00 Welcome and Introduction to Kim Patton01:00 Embracing being bad at the start03:00 Podcasting versus practicing privately06:00 Gaining clarity before launching08:00 How Book Therapy began12:00 Reading as therapy and problem-solving17:00 Building meaningful connections through podcasting20:00 Why “Lean In” didn’t work as a podcast name24:00 Managing listener expectations28:00 Writing for your audience versus writing for yourself33:00 How audience feedback shapes content38:00 Turning daily habits into podcast ideas44:00 Kim’s vision for the future of Book Therapy

What happens when life forces you to slow down and face everything you’ve been avoiding?In this episode of My Podcast Story, Mark Osborne shares the deeply personal journey behind his podcast, The Valiant Forge. What started as a quiet life marked by insecurity, spiritual distance, and a health scare became a turning point that reshaped his faith, marriage, and purpose.Mark opens up about the moment that changed everything—from a mild heart attack to rebuilding his relationship with God and his family—and how that journey led him to start a podcast, even when he felt unqualified.This is not just a story about podcasting. It’s about obedience, identity, and stepping into a calling before you feel ready.What you’ll learn from this episode:Why waiting until you’re “ready” might hold you backHow Mark started his podcast within weeks of the ideaThe role faith played in rebuilding his life and marriageHow personal struggles can shape powerful podcast messagesHis simple workflow for creating podcast episodesWhy impact matters more than downloadsThe deeper mission behind The Valiant ForgeConnect with GuestMark Osborne Podcasthttps://www.youtube.com/@thevaliantforgeMark Website https://www.thevaliantforge.com/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/joinTimestamps00:00 Introduction00:51 Meet Mark Osborne01:12 Why he calls himself “just a guy”01:52 The life events that led to the podcast02:30 Childhood struggles and early faith03:27 Health scare and loss of purpose04:24 Fitness journey and personal struggles05:13 Rebuilding marriage and faith05:49 Stepping into leadership unexpectedly06:28 Discovering podcasting through another host07:54 The moment he felt called to start a podcast08:30 His first episode and early struggles09:04 Starting quickly vs waiting too long09:46 Leading without formal credentials11:10 The meaning behind “The Valiant Forge”13:01 Life experience shaping his message14:14 How he creates podcast episodes15:21 Capturing ideas and structuring content16:34 Tools he uses for podcasting17:20 Recording and hosting platforms18:19 Why he switched to Buzzsprout18:57 His current growth challenges19:45 Why impact matters more than growth20:00 His vision for the next 5 years21:29 Turning the podcast into a movement23:05 Message for future generations24:34 Fears before publishing his first episode26:23 “People are waiting for you to figure it out”27:37 Core message of the podcast29:06 Advice for new podcasters30:50 Where to listen and connect32:09 Outro

What if your podcast didn’t need to make money directly… but still brought in clients?In this episode of My Podcast Story, Sasha Eburne shares how her podcast became a powerful conversion tool for her coaching business—without relying on ads, sponsorships, or complex strategies.She breaks down how she started her show to build confidence and reach more people, why she’s now doubling down on guest podcasting, and how her podcast naturally turns listeners into paying clients.We also go deep into virtual assistants—how to hire them, what they can handle for your podcast, and how to build simple systems so you’re not stuck doing everything yourself.If you’re a podcaster, coach, or service-based business owner, this episode will show you how to think about your podcast differently—not just as content, but as a growth engine.What you’ll learn from this episode:Why podcasting builds authority faster than most platformsThe real difference between being a podcast host vs guestHow Sasha uses her podcast to convert listeners into clientsWhat virtual assistants can handle in your podcast workflowHow to create simple systems and processes for outsourcingWhy she’s shifting from audio to video in Season 3How to scale your business without being stuck working all the timeConnect with Sasha Eburnehttps://sashaeburne.com/podcastLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sashaeburne/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/joinTimestamps00:00 Introduction00:21 Meet Sasha Eburne and her podcast01:05 Why she started her podcast02:25 Starting a show vs guest podcasting03:07 How many podcasts she does per week03:41 Host vs guest which is easier04:34 How podcasting builds confidence06:06 What her podcast is really about07:43 How the show evolved over time08:42 Why Season 3 is going video09:26 When the new season is launching10:29 How virtual assistants help podcasters11:21 What policies and procedures mean12:09 Video vs written SOPs for teams13:26 How to organize your systems simply14:57 Hiring affordable virtual assistants16:32 Paid trials and avoiding hiring mistakes17:59 Hiring for attitude vs skill19:35 Contractor vs employee explained21:38 Hiring internationally what to know23:00 What her podcast teaches24:18 Starting simple vs waiting for perfect24:51 New direction scaling businesses25:48 Why her content focus changed26:46 Aligning your podcast with your growth28:26 How she grew the podcast29:30 Where her listeners actually come from31:10 Using AI to create content clips32:21 Her content repurposing strategy33:19 Automations and ManyChat funnels34:12 Posting across multiple platforms35:34 Does her podcast make money36:07 How podcasting converts clients37:26 Plans for future growth38:43 Where to find her podcast39:22 Outro

If you want to know how a long-standing podcast can evolve with you and fuel a thriving business, this episode is for you. I sat down with Nicola Beer, who’s been running her show for eight years—yes, eight! In this conversation, we dig into what it takes to stay consistent even when life gets messy, and how podcasting can continue to spark your creativity.You’ll find out why having the right episode titles (and podcast name) makes all the difference in getting found, plus how you can use listener questions to create episodes your audience actually wants. Nicola also gets real about the early hurdles, like struggling with equipment and even getting that dreaded one-star review—and she shares her practical way to handle criticism without taking it personally.Whether you’re new to podcasting or you want to keep your show going for the long haul, you’ll get inspiration around sustainable production, growing an audience with solo episodes, and why you don’t have to be everywhere on social media for your podcast to succeed.Connect With Nicola BeerWebsite: https://nicolabeer.comIf 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 Starting With a Healing Mission00:42 What Is Relationship Trauma?02:05 Childhood Experiences and Patterns03:31 Why Podcasting for Healing04:07 How the Podcast Began05:10 Deleting Old Episodes and Evolving06:15 Journey as a Solo Podcaster07:02 Treating Podcasting Like a Marathon08:12 From Coaching to Podcasting09:06 Episode Volume and Deleting Content10:21 Endless Relationship Topics11:25 Latest Episode Inspiration11:48 Tech Troubles and Early Hurdles13:13 Handling Tough Podcast Feedback15:04 Learning and Improving With Feedback16:58 How Podcasting Grows a Global Business18:43 Managing Gear While Traveling19:37 Surveying Listeners for Episode Ideas20:20 Using Podpage for Podcast Websites22:32 Behind-the-Scenes Workflow23:20 Using Audacity for Simple Edits25:29 Launching a Second Podcast26:31 Time Investment Per Episode27:31 Why Solo Episodes Work29:03 Busting Podcasting Myths30:17 Audience Growth and Title Strategy31:53 Staying Focused for Listeners33:47 Retaining Listeners With Value34:50 Picking a Searchable Podcast Name35:37 Strategy for Nicola’s Second Show36:18 SEO Strategies for Podcasters37:13 Checking What Drives Podcast Growth39:55 Smart Episode Naming and Keywords40:12 Finding Clients Through the Podcast41:22 Knowing Your Marketing Channels42:50 Focusing on What Works43:26 Wisdom’s Marketing Preferences45:51 Podcast SEO Is Still Untapped47:01 What’s Next for the Podcast48:05 Considering Audience Q&A Episodes50:05 How Listener Questions Could Work54:15 Getting Speaking Gigs From Your Show56:22 Where to Listen and Connect

If you’re a podcaster who’s wrestled with perfectionism or questioned whether your show needs a “big” audience, this episode is for you. I sat down with Faith Clarke to pick apart what really goes into growing a podcast, giving yourself permission to experiment, and showing up for your audience—no matter the size. Faith shares how changing podcast formats helped her beat creative blocks, and why solo episodes became crucial for finding and sharing her own point of view (not just her guests’ stories). We talk honestly about the myth that success relies on huge numbers and the importance of serving the listeners who truly value your voice.Listen in to learn:Why consistency and intentional sharing matter more than frequency or “expensive” production.How giving yourself permission to break the rules (like hosting conversations on your website, not just on typical podcast platforms) can spark growth and creativity.The practical, low-pressure ways Faith now gets podcast content out the door without letting perfectionism hold her back.Connect With Faith ClarkeWebsite: https://faithclark.comFeminist Founders: https://feministfounders.comWork Ecosystems: https://workecosystems.comIf 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 Welcome & Introductions00:23 Faith’s Work and Team Design00:48 From Book Idea to Podcast02:02 Podcast Beginnings: Parenting & Disrupt and Lead03:33 Evolving Podcast Streams & Names04:18 Experimenting with Mini-Series and Website Hosting05:45 Perfectionism and Informal Formats06:09 Active Podcasts & Substack Community07:04 Planning Future Podcasts on Belonging08:47 Joining Feminist Founders as Co-Host10:39 Defining the Podcast’s Audience and Mission12:40 Roles, Content Creation, and Collaboration14:22 Finding and Preparing Guests16:02 Joining Feminist Founders & Podcast Age18:34 Growth Levers: Consistency and Intentional Sharing22:10 Podcasting’s Impact on Professional Life24:21 Bringing Your Own Story to the Mic26:32 Website-Hosted Series and Lead Generation27:57 Last Episodes and Guesting Focus28:27 Struggles with Production and Visibility30:19 Biggest Podcast Mistake: Hiding Behind Guests33:23 Overcoming Procrastination and Busywork35:14 Debunking Podcast Myths: Audience Size37:24 Showing Up for Yourself First38:32 Connecting Faith’s Work to Feminist Founders40:31 Upcoming Project: When We Belong42:12 Legacy: How Faith Wants To Be Remembered43:03 Podcasting’s Future in Smaller Communities44:33 Lightning Round: Dream Guests45:53 Favorite Podcasts Faith Listens To47:05 Unexpected Skills Learned48:56 Advice to Past Self49:19 Where to Find Faith Clarke49:23 Wrap Up and Listener Reminder

If you’ve ever wondered how creative backgrounds in theater can spark new life into a podcast, this episode is for you. I sit down with Franky Corcoran, the host of the Corcoran Entertainment Show, to talk about taking a local arts brand online when the world shut down. You’ll hear about building a podcasting workflow from scratch, and how to let the audio shine without getting lost in video production. You’ll also hear about Franky’s candid approach to learning as you go—sharing why he kept his early “rough” episodes online, and how he steadily improved the show’s quality. We also discuss the real payoff of listener engagement in a crowded podcast landscape.A few takeaways podcasters will get from this episode:How to decide between focusing on audio-only versus video podcasting, and why simplicity can win out for solo hosts.The importance of quality over quantity, and how to continuously improve without erasing your early work.Creative ways to keep your podcast and other projects connected—like turning theater shows into behind-the-scenes episodes.Connect With Franky CorcoranInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/corcoranentertainmentTwitter: https://twitter.com/frankycorcoranIf 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 Meet Franky Corcoran and His Journey01:46 Launching the Corcoran Entertainment Show02:42 From Theater to Podcasting During COVID04:12 Choosing Audio Over Video05:52 Inside a Typical Podcast Episode08:13 Tools, Workflow, and Getting Better12:39 The Many Roles Franky Balances14:42 Grant Support and Setting Up the Studio18:36 Blending Theater and Podcasting22:03 How Affiliates and Sponsors Work26:09 Growing the Show and Standout Episodes30:42 Upcoming Projects and Playwriting33:33 Biggest Personal Benefits of Podcasting35:17 Overcoming Creative Doubts36:25 Advice to the Three-Years-Ago Host37:41 Where to Listen and Final Thoughts

If you’re a podcaster or creator looking for practical ways to grow your show and make content easier, you’ll get plenty out of this episode with Brad Groux. Brad shares how he built an AI-focused business podcast from scratch, what’s working right now to attract listeners, and how he uses simple automation and AI tools to save time on editing, descriptions, and promotion. Plus, we dig into the real-life workflow behind podcast production — the exact apps, tools, and systems Brad uses, and why keeping things consistent matters a lot more than being perfect.You’ll walk away with smart tips for growing your podcast audience with consistent releases and short social clips (even if you don’t love TikTok), plus creative ways to repurpose every episode across newsletters, blogs, and social. Listen in to hear how Brad deals with last-minute guest cancellations, why he recommends having a co-host or support, and the everyday AI hacks that are making podcasting smoother for him and his team.Connect With Brad GrouxWebsite: https://linktree.com/digitalmeldTwitter:https://x.com/digitalmeldIf 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 Welcome and About Brad00:26 Why Start Small, Think Big?01:15 The Podcast’s Origin and Mission02:04 Growth, Guests, and Release Schedule02:46 The Inspiration to Finally Start03:24 Technology as an Equalizer03:55 Early Consistency and Growth04:36 Biggest Challenges with Fast News Cycles05:17 Staying Consistent Despite Busy Weeks06:05 AI Podcasting Workflow and Systems06:38 Planning, Notes, and Guest Process07:20 Changing Format for Guest Perspectives08:21 Guest Pre-Calls and Release Timeline09:26 Handling Last-Minute Cancellations09:53 Flying Solo and Staying Nimble10:45 Behind-the-Scenes: Tools and Workflow11:35 Editing, Riverside, and Content Perfection13:31 AI Tools for Titles and Show Notes14:39 Why Riverside Enterprise?16:01 Automation and Processes Before/After Episodes17:22 Podcast Experience and Lessons Learned19:33 Podcast Discovery and Legacy Content20:43 Listener Feedback and Live Events22:04 Growth Levers — Consistency & Clips25:11 Social Media Tools and Scheduling26:49 Platform Reach: LinkedIn, TikTok, Newsletter29:08 How Newsletter Drives Engagement31:03 LinkedIn Algorithm and Video Performance34:07 Speaking Events and Exposure Boost36:31 Repurposing and Promotion Strategies41:24 Blog Posts and Back-Catalog Growth43:17 Local Engagement and Podcast Branding44:33 Event Interviews and Content Breakouts47:02 Episode Length Versus Quality48:58 Projects and What’s Next51:24 Final Advice for Podcasters52:44 Where to Find Brad and Digital Meld54:01 Wrap-Up and Newsletter CTA

If you've ever asked yourself, “Am I born or made to be a podcaster?” this episode is for you. In my conversation with Larry G. Dix II, bestselling author and host of the Born or Made Podcast, you'll get honest, behind-the-scenes insight into what it really takes to grow — not just a podcast, but as a person in the process. Larry shares the ups and downs of his unconventional journey, from starting out with zero podcasting experience to building a show that explores how top leaders think and operate.In this episode, you'll find out:Why embracing flexibility and being open to change can unlock opportunities for your show, even if your original plan starts to shift.How focusing on storytelling, genuine curiosity, and careful listening (instead of canned questions) will help you create deeper connections and standout interviews.Whether you’re just getting started or feeling stuck, Larry’s perspective will remind you it’s normal to learn as you go, and that your growth as host is just as important as your show’s growth. Dive in for a relaxed, real talk that might just help you get unstuck, too.Connect With Larry G. Dix IIWebsite: https://bornormadepodcast.comWebsite: https://larrygdix.comIf 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 Meet Larry G. Dix II01:19 The Story Behind “Born or Made”02:52 Asking Guests: Born, Made, or Built?03:19 How Long the Podcast Has Been Running03:51 Larry’s First Podcasting Experiences04:23 Comfortable Conversations & Loosening Up05:33 Surprising Backstories Guests Reveal05:53 Biggest Challenges Starting Out06:36 The Power of Listening as Host07:12 Podcasting Habits That Spill Into Life07:47 Why Larry Loves People’s Stories09:06 Behind-the-Scenes: Episode Production10:08 Who’s On the Podcast Team10:50 Balancing AI With the Human Touch12:09 Recording in Different Studios13:06 In-Person vs. Remote Conversations14:53 Lessons from Marathon Interview Days15:57 Knowing Your Limits as a Host17:00 Why In-Person Feels Different17:58 Evolving Growth Strategies18:26 Launching With a Book, Pivoting to a Podcast19:17 Keeping the Format Flexible20:16 Building Brand Around Your Name21:24 Testing, Pivoting, and Social Content Ideas22:51 Letting Listeners (and the Market) Decide24:07 The Podcast’s Personal Impact25:25 Why Guests Aren’t So Different After All26:53 Overcoming Fear and Mental Hurdles29:36 Honest Conversations About Failure30:02 The Real Value for Listeners31:30 No Such Thing As Overnight Success32:15 Sharing the Full Journey, Not Just the Highs33:41 Feedback From Guests and Listeners35:10 Interviewing as a Two-Way Street36:10 Podcasting’s Finances and Reality Check37:13 Costs, Investments, and Long-Term Bets39:20 The Bare Essentials for Gear41:45 Getting the Setup Right, Not Fancy43:14 Leveraging Your Unique Strengths46:42 Focusing on the Gain, Not the Gap48:17 Big Projects: New Book and Framework49:18 Where to Find Larry and His Resources50:41 Final Reflections and Thanks

As a podcaster, you know the struggle of turning big challenges into something meaningful. This week, I sat down with Jocelyn King, host of the Smarter Online Safety podcast, who transformed a devastating cybercrime experience into a show that helps regular people stay safe online. Listen in to hear how a personal crisis can motivate incredible learning, and pick up the practical tips Jocelyn uses to protect herself and her listeners from online threats—without complicated tech talk. You’ll find out how she started from scratch and made a podcast that is both helpful and easy to follow. In this episode, you’ll hear her simple approach to launching a show even when you’re nervous, and you’ll learn her super-organized system for getting top guests—even if you’re just starting out. If you want more confidence in your voice, or you want real tips for building a podcast that makes a difference, you’ll love this conversation.Connect With Jocelyn KingWebsite: https://smarteronlinesafety.comIf 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 Jocelyn King01:13 Jocelyn’s Podcast in Her Words01:34 What Smarter Online Safety Covers02:07 Launch Date and Origins02:19 The Spark for Podcasting02:53 Personal Story: Cybercrime Attack04:23 How Her Background Shaped the Show07:20 Everyday People Need Simple Safety08:23 The Trauma of Cybercrime10:00 Why Online Safety Matters Now10:54 First Episode: Getting Started11:47 Getting Over Perfectionism13:08 Booking Guests Early15:17 Reaching Out to High-Profile Guests16:12 Fears When Starting17:18 Building Confidence Through Action18:28 Purpose Bigger Than Fear20:22 Comparing Yourself to Podcast Veterans21:31 The 1% Improvement Rule22:55 Signs of Traction and Growth23:56 Growing a Newsletter From Guest Spots25:44 Meeting Demand and Multi-use Content26:42 Traction Surprises28:01 Milestones and Booking Top Guests29:21 Tailoring Invitations for Guests30:48 Don’t Reject Yourself Before You Ask32:00 Roadblocks and Solutions33:44 Mindset Shifts for Outreach34:38 Pre-Production to Publishing Steps35:12 Planning Around National Events36:44 Finding and Inviting Guests38:17 Recording Setup: Travel-Friendly Gear40:07 Must-Have Tools and Support41:17 Who Handles Production42:06 Knowing Your Strengths42:36 Creative Ways to Delegate42:53 Advice to Day-One Podcasters43:44 Talking to One Listener44:41 Rapid Fire: Podcast Faves, Habits, Books46:38 Upcoming Online Safety Challenge47:45 Where to Learn More About Jocelyn48:06 Closing Thanks and Reflections

If you ever wondered how to use your own story to build a meaningful podcast, this episode is for you. I talk with Amanda J. Scott about how she transformed her 17 years of surviving domestic abuse into a podcast that helps others find hope and healing. You’ll hear why Amanda believes sharing tough experiences in your own voice matters—and how podcasting can be a discreet lifeline for listeners who aren’t ready to go public with their struggles yet. We dig into the challenges of getting started with your own podcast, especially when your topic is deeply personal. Amanda talks about making sure her content is accessible for people who might not be able to pick up a book, and gives honest advice on finding supportive guests and experts for difficult conversations. If you want to learn how to connect with your ideal listeners, and why every detail of your show—from who you invite to how you show up—can make an impact, you’ll get a lot from this conversation.Connect With Amanda J. ScottWebsite: https://www.amandajscott.com/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 Amanda J. Scott’s Story00:56 How Podcasting Became a Lifeline01:40 Why “Walk Youk Talk” Exists02:21 Supporting Listeners Healing from Abuse03:21 Who the Podcast Is For05:25 Behind the Scenes: Finding Guests07:41 Why Start a Podcast Now?08:21 Making the Message Accessible09:58 Challenges of Hosting Healing Conversations11:04 What Listeners Can Expect12:10 The Many Faces of Domestic Abuse13:25 Building the Podcast Episode Library16:13 Amanda’s Podcast Creation Process18:59 Focus on the Message Over the Details20:00 Spotlight on Domestic and Emotional Abuse22:48 Sharing for Those Still Healing23:04 Why Episode Length and Approach Matter25:26 Bringing the Message to More Mediums29:00 Helping Listeners Recognize Abuse31:05 The Reality of Admitting Abuse32:14 Healing Through Shared Experience34:25 The Power of Medium and Message35:04 Other Ways to Share the Message37:35 Meeting Listeners Where They Are39:45 Listener Impact and Feedback41:37 Where to Find Amanda Online

If you want a real look at how a seasoned podcaster builds a show that lasts, this episode is for you. I sat down with Anthony Weaver, host of About That Wallet, and pulled back the curtain on his five-year journey helping the sandwich generation talk about—and enjoy—their money. You’ll hear how Anthony went from recording with a phone at his kitchen table to juggling video, live shows, and multiple income streams, all while staying close to his listeners’ needs.Key takeaways you’ll walk away with: how to thoughtfully monetize your podcast with sponsored episodes, business cards, and merch; and how the right workflow (from AI tools to editing systems) can help you publish consistently without burning out or overspending. Plus, you’ll discover Anthony’s approach to networking and using conferences to connect with both guests and listeners. If you’ve ever wondered how to grow your podcast without losing the personal touch, you’ll find practical steps here. Enjoy the story—and some ideas you’ll want to try right away.Connect With Anthony WeaverWebsite: https://aboutthatwallet.comNewsletter: https://aboutthatwallet.com/newsletterMerch Store: https://aboutthatwallet.com/storeIf 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 Meet Anthony Weaver00:15 Why a Podcast About Money00:34 Choosing the Podcast Name00:45 Audio vs. Video Journey01:54 First Episode Memories02:54 Workflow Behind the Podcast08:12 Editing, AI Tools, and Costs13:25 Video Creation and Promotion17:07 Using Opus Clip and AI19:38 Streamyard, Riverside, and Friction20:35 Booking Guests and Staying Consistent22:50 Solo Episodes vs. Interviews24:12 Growth Strategies: Early Days25:29 Using Pins, Cards, and Conferences28:31 Upgrading Marketing Materials30:17 Podcast as a Business Booster32:07 Making the Show a Resource33:39 Monetization: Income Streams44:48 Sponsored Episodes Explained46:56 Pitching and Partnering Locally49:45 Niche Podcasts and Community52:13 First Steps for New Podcasters54:55 Where to Find About That Wallet55:43 Wrap-Up and Final Thoughts

If you’ve ever wondered how to build a podcast with staying power—even if you start out unsure about your name or format—this episode will hit home. I sat down with Pete A. Turner, host of the Break It Down Show, who’s been podcasting for over ten years and has published more than 2,000 episodes. Pete’s story is filled with real talk about the obstacles and rewards of the long haul.In this conversation, you’ll pick up a few important things:First, you’ll hear about the importance of showing up and creating, even when you don’t have all the answers—perfection isn’t required to start. Second, Pete shares how networking with guests and focusing on the value created for others can lead to unexpected opportunities and returns. And finally, if you’ve ever felt burnt out, Pete’s approach to pacing, taking breaks, and shifting content focus might help you keep going without losing the joy.Whether you’re just starting or years into your journey, there’s wisdom here you’ll want to take with you.Connect With Pete A. TurnerYouTube:https://www.youtube.com/peteaturnerLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/peteaturner/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 Why Podcast Stories Matter00:22 Introducing Pete A. Turner01:23 Pete’s Work and Podcast Origin01:46 What Break It Down Show Covers02:08 From Combat Zones to the Mic02:47 Over 10 Years and 2,000 Episodes03:02 Early Hopes and Lessons Learned04:11 Pete’s Pre-Podcasting Life04:44 The Show’s Name and Backstory05:57 From Midweek Mash to Break It Down07:27 Don’t Wait for the Perfect Name08:46 Early Challenges and Value09:51 Figuring Out Money and Meaning10:50 Booking Fascinating Guests11:40 Why Not to Niche Down12:18 Recording On the Road13:53 Monetization: Experiments and Reality15:00 Streamlining Costs and Workflow17:16 How the Podcast Creates Leverage19:09 Expenses and Tools Pete Uses21:32 PR, Ads, and Guest Discovery24:01 Pete’s Simple Production Process25:59 Automation and Minimal Editing27:59 Why Workflow Simplicity Matters28:57 Creating Value for Others32:00 Listener Stories That Matter34:37 Becoming a Podcast Producer36:21 Helping Others Start Smart39:44 The Costs of Commitment41:45 Cadence and Avoiding Burnout43:26 How to Take Useful Breaks45:32 The Future: Podcasting, Movies, and Growth48:23 Parting Advice on Podcast Longevity49:43 Final Thoughts and Outro

If you’ve ever wondered how to start and grow a podcast without spending a fortune or getting tangled up in tech, this episode is a must-listen. My guest, Willie Blake, shares how he took the leap from inspiration to launching “Light Beyond Limits” in just two days — proving your podcast dreams can become reality fast, even on a shoestring budget. We dive into Willie’s practical workflow, why he chose podcasting as his main platform, and what it’s really like producing consistent episodes while balancing family and business.A couple of takeaways you’ll get from this conversation: how podcasting can be a low-cost way to share your story and build leads for your business, and the real importance of showing up consistently (even when life gets busy). Plus, we get honest about the challenges and mindsets that stop creators, and how Willie’s approach might help you get started or keep going.You won’t hear the same old advice here — you'll pick up genuine tips and some thought-provoking perspectives for podcasters who want to take action now.Connect With Willie BlakeWebsite: https://coachwillieblake.comIf 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 Meet Willie Blake and Podcast Story00:33 Turning Challenges into Strengths01:06 Willie’s Coaching Focus01:30 The Light Beyond Limits Podcast01:41 Launching the Podcast02:01 Why Podcasting Over Other Mediums04:10 Getting Started — Fast!05:09 First Episode Experience07:19 Creating a Podcast for Yourself08:52 Behind the Scenes: Production Process10:03 Podcast Gear and Budget Tips11:23 Editing and Publishing Workflow12:38 Uploading Audio to YouTube16:01 Podcasting on a Budget18:19 Imperfect Action and Consistency22:22 Episode Frequency and Milestones23:37 Podcasting with a Busy Schedule25:09 Consistency and Motivation25:49 Growing the Podcast Audience26:49 Social Media for Podcast Promotion28:40 Aligning Brand and Guest Stories29:49 Podcast SEO and Descriptions30:53 Using AI for Podcast Workflow31:30 Website and Security Lessons33:31 Discoverability Across Platforms35:56 Search Engines and Podcast Growth36:15 Sharing with Friends and Networks36:32 Guesting on Other Podcasts38:01 The Podcast as a Lead Generator40:54 Indirect Monetization Through Leads43:33 Podcasting Builds Credibility45:55 Being Featured and Building Trust46:49 Final Advice for Podcasters48:13 Connect with Willie and Wrap-Up

If you’re a podcaster or thinking about starting your own show, this episode is packed with down-to-earth advice you can actually use. I sat down with David McClam, who’s been podcasting for nearly a decade and knows the real struggles behind the scenes. We talked about finding your podcast voice, making production work even when you’re low on budget, and how personal experience can shape the kind of stories you tell.You’ll hear how David moved from YouTube content creation into podcasting, and why he launched a show that spotlights not only true crime but also authors and everyday people with extraordinary stories. One big takeaway: building a podcast is about choosing a niche and standing out, especially in crowded genres. Another: developing your own workflow and finding support can help overcome time and technical challenges—whether that’s learning editing skills yourself or finding the right tools and partners. Plus, you'll get tips on bringing more authenticity and transparency to your episodes so your audience feels truly connected.Connect With David McClamWebsite: https://truecrimeauthors.comIf 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 Opening and guest intro00:52 David’s background and podcast focus01:33 How David’s podcasts are structured02:13 Covering diverse crime stories02:43 Family inspiration and podcast beginnings03:56 David’s YouTube story04:44 True crime fascination explained05:36 Avoiding exploitation in storytelling07:04 Why start a new show?08:32 Personal experience shapes the podcast09:02 Is “A Day with Crime” still live?10:26 Podcasting vs. traditional media11:53 Podcast ads and evergreen content12:53 Father-daughter podcast dynamic13:38 Early technical challenges15:56 Growth through production struggles16:29 Podcast production for creators17:17 Supporting new podcasters18:12 Launching a production company21:09 Building out convenient podcast solutions22:22 Frustrations that lead to business ideas23:24 Why editing and production support matters24:07 Connecting more with listeners25:00 Time—the biggest challenge26:47 Scheduling and flexibility in podcasting27:21 Creating bonus content28:05 How production support frees creators29:53 Researching for true crime episodes31:42 The value of script writers32:01 Linking sources and references33:36 Biggest lesson learned the hard way34:53 Dealing with celebrity expectations36:43 The value of transparency38:02 Behind the scenes: making an episode38:48 Crafting show titles and artwork39:28 Importance of theme music41:22 Sourcing intro and outro music43:43 Adapting intros for different podcasts44:43 Episode creation process46:03 Research and uncovering unique details48:03 Tools and production workflow49:59 Audio vs. video episodes50:41 Using PodPage and other tools50:54 Advice to a new podcaster52:08 Rapid fire questions53:13 Books, habits, and resources54:19 What’s next for David54:41 Wrapping up and future catch-ups55:27 Farewell and listener call to action

If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to run a podcast that stands out, you’ll want to hear my conversation with Jake Doberenz, host of Christianity Without Compromise. In this episode, Jake shares his approach to tackling controversial topics while keeping his show laser-focused and relevant. You’ll learn why narrowing your podcast’s mission beats being general, and how choosing an audience helps you build real fans—not just random listeners. We also talk behind the scenes: balancing production, choosing marketing platforms, and knowing when to say “no” to extra work so you don’t burn out.A couple things you’ll take away: how to make clear choices about show format (like going audio-only), and the key benefits of doing pre-interview chats to make sure your guests—and their tech—are a good fit. You’ll hear honest insights on growth strategies, workflow, and why letting go of what “everyone else is doing” actually works. If you want real advice from someone who’s been through every podcast role, don’t miss this episode.Connect with Jake DoberenzWebsite:https://jakedoberenz.com/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 Jake Doberenz00:01 What Is Christianity Without Compromise?00:03 Jake’s Start in Podcasting00:06 Lessons from Previous Shows00:07 Why This Podcast Idea?00:10 Picking a Specific Focus00:12 The Reality of Running a Podcast00:15 Choosing Audio Over Video00:17 Decisions Around Marketing00:20 What Actually Works in Promotion00:22 Making the Podcast Fit Your Life00:23 Workflow and Tools Used00:25 Producing for Clients vs. Own Show00:28 Hosting on Substack00:29 How Growth Happens00:31 Using Stories to Engage00:33 Upcoming Projects and Video Plans00:34 What Would It Take to Add Video?00:36 Tech Barriers and Guest Setup00:41 Gradually Shifting to Video00:43 Repurposing with Video Content00:44 Does the Podcast Make Money?00:45 Final Advice for Podcasters00:48 Where to Connect with Jake

If you’ve ever wondered how to keep your podcast real and meaningful, you’ll want to hear this honest conversation with Neena Perez, host of Straight Talk, No Sugar Added. In this episode, we talk about why being your authentic self—even when it’s uncomfortable—makes all the difference in podcasting. Neena shares how her journey from personal pain to podcasting purpose keeps her focused, even when the numbers are small or growth is slow.One big takeaway: you’ll learn why showing up consistently and telling the truth, no matter how messy or imperfect, can be your podcast’s greatest strength. We also dig into handling criticism, keeping your old episodes online (even the ones you might cringe at now), and building real relationships with your guests and listeners—not just chasing the next big number.If you’re a podcaster feeling unsure about your impact or your growth, this episode will remind you why your story and your truth are worth sharing.Connect with Neena PerezWebsite: https://straighttalknosugaradded.com/Twitter: https://x.com/neenaperezLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neenaperez/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 Neena Perez’s Story01:08 Who Is Neena Perez?01:28 What Straight Talk No Sugar Added Means02:16 Naming the Podcast: No Sugar Added03:19 Podcast Origins and “Memoirs of a Fat Girl”04:11 Revisiting Old Projects and Evolving07:21 Neena’s Deep Why for Podcasting08:38 Healing, Accountability, and Early Listeners10:02 Podcasting as a Faith Journey10:40 Podcasting for Personal Growth12:00 Embracing Change and Evolving Episodes13:42 Audience of One: Letting Go of Numbers16:14 Focusing on Real Impact17:24 Listeners as Real People, Not Just Numbers18:05 Chasing Illusions vs. Staying Authentic20:04 Authentic Stories vs. AI Content22:31 The Value of Real Experience24:49 Dealing With Trolls and Criticism25:45 Tools and Tech Behind Neena’s Podcast29:00 AppSumo Finds and Podcast Workflows32:42 Automating Guest Booking and Management35:26 Repurposing Evergreen Content36:23 Shorts and Bringing Episodes Back37:47 Roundups and Episode Revivals38:02 Blogging to Extend Reach39:17 Relationship Building and Guest Follow-Up41:46 Missed Opportunities and Keeping Track43:46 Top-Chain vs. Bottom-Chain Networking45:14 Building Community and Helping Other Women46:25 Forgetting the Numbers and Focusing on Skills47:28 Social Media Myths and Realities49:32 Neena’s Podcast Makes Some Money51:01 Final Reflections and Advice to Beginners52:27 Where to Find Neena Online52:59 Closing the Episode and Next Steps