WHAT’S THIS EPISODE ABOUT?
I messed up a lot when I first started podcasting.
I put way too much emphasis on getting the technology right with my podcast setup. And I focused on all the things that didn’t really matter.
Do you know what DOES matter?
No, it’s not the fancy equipment.
No, it’s not the mic positioning.
No, it’s not even about having the best audio quality out there.
I’ve listened to many podcasts that have messed up right in the middle of recording.
I’ve listened to a podcast where the host messed up a name during an interview.
I’ve heard podcasts where planes, trains, and automobiles are in the background.
It’s not about the “absolute right” setting. Or equipment. Or even the perfect podcast setup.
It’s about having confidence and owning the conversation, even if you’re the only one talking.
Sounding like a pro on your podcast has NOTHING to do with fancy equipment. But it has EVERYTHING to do with your mindset.
Today on the podcast, we’re talking about the 5 ways you can speak with authority, just like a pro, even when you’re just getting started.
1. Confidence
Faith in your abilities as a podcaster comes with time.
Unless you’re transitioning from a career where you were constantly in the spotlight doing radio or TV, you’re going to feel uncomfortable. But that’s not to say that you can’t build your confidence up! (You can even do it REALLY FAST!)
How do you build confidence in your podcast skills?
Just like anything else…you practice.
Practice interviewing your dog.
Talk to you kids on the mic.
Hit the record button and tell your life story.
Whatever you need to do, but practice every day.
“I’ve always considered myself to be just average talent and what I have is a ridiculous insane obsessiveness for practice and preparation.”
– Will Smith
2. No Self-Doubt
“I’m awful at this…”
“Everyone’s going to laugh at me…”
“I have no idea what I’m doing…”
“Why can’t my podcast be as good as his…”
“Will anyone ever want to listen to this…”
These thoughts flooded my mind for the first few months I started podcasting.
Self-doubt was rampant.
I had no idea how much it was impacting me until I finally took a step back and said, “You know what…enough is enough!!”
Don’t get me wrong, I still have thoughts of self-doubt creeping into my head every single time I hit record. But now, I don’t let it win. Now, I combat those thoughts with, “I know what I’m doing…I’ll figure it out…I can make this work…I’m not trying to be just like them anyway!”
3. Consider Yourself an Expert
What do you know about your podcast topic?
How long have you been in that field?
What stories can you share to relate to your audience?
You don’t have to have a Ph.D. to have a podcast.
But, you do need to know what you’re talking about.
Please don’t start a podcast about running a donut food truck if you’ve never fried a donut in your life. Or don’t try to tell people how to grow a business if you’ve never started one yourself.
When it comes to being a so-called “expert”, it comes down to 2 simple things…
- What is your experience?
- Do you really know what you’re talking about?
Yes, those are pretty subjective factors and maybe certain industries require more of a prerequisite to launch a podcast. But in my experience, as long as the person has some credibility (proof) and they give me valuable info…I don’t care what their background is.
Prime example: Rachel Hollis.
Her “Rise” Podcast has won awards, inspired millions of women, and yet…
- She tells you up front she’s only got a high school education.
- She figures things out as she goes when it comes to her business.
- She takes on the challenge of learning how to be the best version of herself.
I don’t listen to her podcast because she’s edu-ma-cated (something we often called ourselves growing up in the piney woods of East Texas).
I listen to her podcast because she fires me up.
She motivates me.
She has experience with what she’s talking about.
And she really knows what she’s talking about.
Those are the only factors I need to check off my list!
4. Accept Imperfections
You’re totally going to screw up.
Harsh, I know. But it needs to be said.
There shouldn’t be this ridiculous SHOCK & AWE moment when you realize you’ve messed up a podcast episode. (I mean, it’s okay to be upset. For sure! But accept that things went wrong and keep going!)
Let’s see…where have I messed up on my podcast?
- Mic was unplugged
- Echo was terrible
- Kids interrupted interviews
- Software malfunctioned and I lost 2 quality interviews
- Mispronounced guest’s name
- Said the wrong episode number
- And the list goes on…
Don’t let mistakes hold you back.
I know they suck when they happen. (TRUST ME!!)
But don’t let them hold you back. Accept the imperfections that come with podcasting and keep going.
5. Start Before You’re Ready
Recently, I was a student of Marie Forleo’s BSchool. (A life-changing experience and 100% worth the investment if you can afford to do it! Not sure why I said “was” considering I’m a #BSchooler for life!)
Of the millions of things Marie taught us in the course, one of the MOST important lessons I’ve heard in my life was said so subtly yet firm…
START BEFORE YOU’RE READY!
If you’re not familiar with Marie Forleo, then go to her show MarieTV and binge every single episode there! (Holy cow! I’m not even kidding. Doing that alone can change EVERYTHING for you and your podcast!!)
One thing she says over and over and over again is that “Clarity comes from engagement…not thought!”
Translation:
You won’t know what you need to do/change/revise/switch/upgrade/make better/etc…UNTIL YOU GET STARTED!!!
So, what are you waiting for?
Let’s get started with your podcast!
What’s the Next Step?
If you’re just getting started, listen to “How to Start a Podcast”.
If you’re getting ready to launch your podcast, listen to “How to Launch a Podcast”.
If you’re already rocking and rolling and just want some marketing ideas, listen to “How to Market a Podcast”.
Comments +