Are you hesitating to start your podcast due to fear or uncertainty?

In today's episode, I share my transformative journey through four podcasts, revealing the highs and lows I faced. Discover how I overcame imposter syndrome and learned to embrace my voice, despite the initial doubts that held me back.

My podcasting story is a testament to the power of persistence and self-belief. I discuss why I started Tools of the Podcast Trade and why waiting for "perfection" can be a trap.

By sharing my struggles and lessons learned, I hope to inspire you to take that leap of faith and share your own unique story with the world. Or develop a new way to connect with your existing customers while attracting new ones.

Don't miss out—stay tuned until the end for an important offer that could change your podcasting journey!

Key Takeaways:

• Overcoming Fear and Uncertainty (00:00) – Many aspiring podcasters hesitate due to self-doubt. This is how I pushed past fear to start my podcasting journey.
• The Reality of Podcasting (02:30) – Through four different podcasts and over 300 episodes, I experienced highs and lows, demonstrating that persistence is key.
• Battling Imposter Syndrome (05:15) – I opened up about my struggles with self-doubt and how I learned to embrace my voice despite feeling like I wasn’t good enough.
• Tools and Strategies for Success (08:40) – It is essential not to wait for "perfection" because it can only hinder your progress.
• Taking the Leap (10:55) – I encourage you to stop hesitating, take action, and share your unique story.

Thanks for supporting my podcast. If you need guidance to start your podcast or if there’s one thing that keeps bothering you and keeping you from progressing, download my free guide here.

J. Rosemarie Francis

P.S. I’m changing my podcast artwork, mainly the background color. What do you think?

Send us a text

Support the show

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👉Helpful Resources:
Start Your Podcast Quick Start Guide for 9-5ers: https://bit.ly/3DlHm26
Join my Substack: https://bit.ly/3DJAbko
Learn The Secrets To Selling Online: https://bit.ly/3OTExrr
Record, stream, & edit with Riverside: https://shorturl.at/AZ3Lr
Host multiple podcasts on Captivate: ​​https://fas.st/t/4vxsZ9za
Shop Podcast Microphones: https://amzn.to/3Rvz4c7
Get paid to interview guests: https://shorturl.at/htIY4
Podcast hosted by Buzzsprout
Disclosure: This podcast is NOT sponsored. Some links are affiliate links. If you buy a product using one of the links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost.

There's something fulfilling about having guests on a podcast but let's face it, there needs to be more balance between the benefits to the host, guest, and audience.

In this episode, I discuss the advantages and disadvantages of having guests on your podcast. Who does it benefit? How can you make guest episodes more beneficial for all involved?

If you currently interview guests on your podcast or considering it, this episode is for you.

Key Takeaways:

Guest Interviews Can Be Beneficial but Require Strategy (02:30)

• Guests on your podcast can build connections, provide fresh content, and bring diverse perspectives.
• Should align with your show’s goals and truly benefit your audience.

Guest Interviews Often Benefit the Guest More Than the Host (08:45)

• Many guests use podcast appearances to promote themselves or their products.
• If a guest doesn’t share the episode with their audience, the host shouldn’t waste time promoting it either.

Solo Episodes Help Establish the Host as the Expert (12:10)

• Balance guest interviews with solo episodes to establish credibility.
• Consider formats like roundtable discussions instead of simple Q&A interviews.

Pre-Interviews Help Filter Guests for Better Fit (18:20)

• A 15-minute pre-interview can ensure the guest aligns with your show’s purpose.
• Hosts should only invite guests who value the opportunity enough to share the episode.

Avoid Adding Guests to Your Email List Unless It’s a Mutual Fit (22:45)

• Many guests are only interested in promoting themselves, not engaging with your podcast long-term.
• Only add guests to your email list if they are genuinely interested in your content.

Download my free guide "Start Your Podcast Now"

Watch us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@toolsofthepodcasttrade

Check out my PodCubator community. Don't podcast alone.

Need one-on-one guidance? Don't get stuck! Get a mentor. A mentor gets you to your goals faster. Book a complimentary consultation with me here.

Send us a text

Support the show

=====================================
👉Helpful Resources:
Start Your Podcast Quick Start Guide for 9-5ers: https://bit.ly/3DlHm26
Join my Substack: https://bit.ly/3DJAbko
Learn The Secrets To Selling Online: https://bit.ly/3OTExrr
Record, stream, & edit with Riverside: https://shorturl.at/AZ3Lr
Host multiple podcasts on Captivate: ​​https://fas.st/t/4vxsZ9za
Shop Podcast Microphones: https://amzn.to/3Rvz4c7
Get paid to interview guests: https://shorturl.at/htIY4
Podcast hosted by Buzzsprout
Disclosure: This podcast is NOT sponsored. Some links are affiliate links. If you buy a product using one of the links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost.

In this episode, I talk with Matthew Lesko. For years I watched him on TV in his colorful jacket covered in question marks.

This is a fun conversation with a man who has spent decades pointing ordinary individuals to free money from the government available in the form of grants and mentorship.

If you're looking for some funding for your podcast, this episode is for you.

• (00:00) Passion Leads to Success – Matthew Lesko emphasizes that to succeed in life, your heart has to be in whatever you do.
• (04:30) Government Grants Are Available for Almost Anything – Lesko explains how people can access grants for rent, business, car repairs, and even free laptops.
• (12:45) Avoid Google When Searching for Free Resources – Lesko advises against using Google for financial assistance as most results lead to paid services. Instead, he recommends government and nonprofit resources.
• (18:20) Finding Business Support Through SBA and Local Organizations – He introduces SBA.gov/local-assistance, where entrepreneurs can find free business mentorship and funding opportunities.
• (40:00) Giving Back Through Lesko Help Community – Lesko’s membership platform provides financial support to struggling members, redistributing 40% of revenue as grants.

Connect with Matthew:

• Website: LeskoHelp.com
• Twitter (X): @MatthewLesko
• YouTube Channel: Matthew Lesko’s YouTube
• Facebook Group: Lesko Help Community

Listen on Spotify: https://www.connectwithjrosemarie.com/tools-lesko

Listen on Apple: https://apple.co/4huJPGG

Watch all our interviews on https://www.YouTube.com/@toolsofthepodcasttrade

Send us a text

Support the show

=====================================
👉Helpful Resources:
Start Your Podcast Quick Start Guide for 9-5ers: https://bit.ly/3DlHm26
Join my Substack: https://bit.ly/3DJAbko
Learn The Secrets To Selling Online: https://bit.ly/3OTExrr
Record, stream, & edit with Riverside: https://shorturl.at/AZ3Lr
Host multiple podcasts on Captivate: ​​https://fas.st/t/4vxsZ9za
Shop Podcast Microphones: https://amzn.to/3Rvz4c7
Get paid to interview guests: https://shorturl.at/htIY4
Podcast hosted by Buzzsprout
Disclosure: This podcast is NOT sponsored. Some links are affiliate links. If you buy a product using one of the links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost.