If you’ve already got a show, this episode will give you a boost to publish that next episode, flaws and all. And if you haven’t started a podcast yet, this is the episode for you!

I’m opening up more slots in September to make sure you get your podcast launched. If you’ve been thinking about starting a podcast for some time now, this is the time to do it! Launch your podcast to give yourself a platform to connect emotionally and authentically with your audience. Especially if you want a whole new way to market yourself or your business. Starting a podcast begins with all the similar questions:

  • Which mic should I buy?
  • How do I set up my podcast?
  • How do I get on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google and all the places?
  • How do I record guests online?
  • How do I get more listeners?
  • How much time is this going to take?

You’re not alone.

Stop the overwhelming endless research on what to do because some of that information is now outdated! I’ve done the research for you created a blueprint so we can work together through my 12-Week program to have your podcast launched before the end of the year! If you’d like to know more, let’s schedule a time with me for a complimentary 30-minute strategy session.

One of the reasons I hear why podcasters don’t start their own show is because they don’t think it’s good enough. But what does that really mean? Good enough for who? And why are you waiting for things to be perfect to publish an episode or start a podcast? If you are, you’ll never get it done. Podcasting is about the journey and the practice of doing through imperfection.

Starting a perfectly imperfect podcast or episode means you accept your flaws. You’re no longer procrastinating and avoiding doing the work because you no longer have this fear of perceived failure of judgement from others or yourself.

So let’s take a step back. Why are you attempting perfectionism? Who are you setting up these high standards for and who are you seeking approval from? Why are you comparing yourself to others?

Mentally strong podcasters don’t aim for perfection. You’ll never reach that bar because what is your idea of perfectionism? You only hold yourself back if you want to attain this unattainable status. Who created this system anyway that we are “supposed to” follow? Who says there’s one way to create a podcast? I know when I’m on a strategy call with a Podcaster, we’re always looking at other solutions and being innovative for what may work for them, for their unique situation.

However, every Podcaster can still ease their desire to be perfect.

What do you consider as success? Now, as I’ve said before, it’s not about the numbers. So what does success look like to you? And I’m not talking about success for your podcast, but what would your life look like if your podcast was able to generate more brand awareness? That people looked to you for your authority? Knowing what your desired outcome is will tackle your fear of failure. Knowing that failure means to learn from that and it’s the process of failing that leads to success.

The mistakes we make as podcasters means a lesson we’ll learn for our next episode. We all publish imperfect episodes because no one is perfect. If we wanted to publish perfect episodes, there wouldn’t be very many podcasts to listen to at all. I’d even dare to say none.

There is no ONE way to do things. Even I’ll admit, every episode on my podcast isn’t meant to be a solution for everyone. Take what you learn and apply it to your show. Then sit back and look at the bigger picture. What worked? What didn’t? Tweak what didn’t work and focus on what did, then repeat that. I say all the time, standing is better for your breathing and being able to speak more fluidly with your breath. But I get it. Your situation might not be able to fit that need. In order for you to podcast, you need to be sitting at your desk because that’s where your mic is. Cool. Do that. But keep in mind that we can shift the way you’re sitting to create more breath and you are always able to change your situation. Say down the road you think, “yeah, Mary’s right, I want to start standing.” So what are you going to do to take action and make that change, so you can start standing while you’re recording your show?

I am lucky enough that I was able to receive a standing desk, so that works for me, but I also have a client who cleaned out her closet instead and made room for a standing mic stand with her laptop. Eventually, she even installed a little shelf to make it more comfortable and accessible for her notes and water. You can make whatever you want to happen with a bit of creative thinking and inventive problem-solving skills. Are you seeking perfection or excellence?

Again, you’ve heard me say it, but it comes back to what are your values. Why are you podcasting? What is your listener wanting to hear about and how can you speak to that question? What challenges are you solving for them with your show or your episode? Answer those questions and if you don’t have the answers, tell them that and own it. Share your flawed experience with them.

Speak your truth and do it confidently by not needing to be perfect. Embrace the imperfections, because that’s life and your listeners will connect with that authenticity and visibility in your voice. Perfection is never attainable, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t have help along the way to create your show the way you imagined it. Having support with your podcast is a great way to go about because no one should ever be alone in their journey. If you’re looking for an expert opinion or want a second set of eyes on your show, I’m here for you. Let’s book a complimentary 30-minute strategy session to see how we can best work together on your perfectly imperfect podcast to shift it and align with the vision for your show.