Embarking on the journey of podcasting is not for the weak, but it’s been one heck of an adventure! 💪✨

BURNOUT ALERT ⚡

As a new podcaster, I was excited to welcome just about any guest who wanted to come on the show—even if it meant sacrificing my rest time. 😅 I work a full-time job (ugh! 😩), but thankfully, when work is slow, I can sneak in some editing. That said, I wear all the hats: producer, creative, editor, and everything in between. 🎩🎬

Here are a few things I wish I knew before starting:

1. Balancing Time ⏳
If I could go back in time, I’d block out my recording sessions for weekends only, taking on just one guest per week. Lesson learned! 🙈 Right now, I have three guests this week, and I know it’s going to lead to serious burnout with all the editing. 🧠💥

2. Branding 🎨
How did I overlook this?! I took a marketing course, so I should have known to spend more time on branding. 😖 I’m still figuring out my “WHY.” It wasn’t until last week that I finally dialed in on my branding colors and started experimenting with reels. I’m learning what content resonates most with my audience—and turns out, I’m great at book recommendations! 📚✨ But guess what? I’ve got so much more to share than just what books you should read.

Right now, I’m recording episodes that might ruffle a few feathers… Stay tuned! 😉

3. Clarity on Guests & Topics 🎯
If you’re just starting out, my advice is to get crystal clear on the guests you want and the topics you want to dive into. It’ll save you time and stress later!

Personal Struggles Behind the Scenes 🫣
As an introvert, being on camera is a huge challenge. I’d rather not show my face or even speak at times. 😳 It’s like I want the images in my head to magically appear on YouTube without me actually being there. But, well, that’s not how life works! 😅

Starting a podcast on YouTube forced me to face my biggest fears—being seen and dealing with my insecurities. Hello, imposter syndrome! 🙋‍♀️ If I can give you any advice, it’s this: prepare to fail, because failure is just part of the journey. 🚀

I gave myself a one-year goal for YouTube and podcasting, and while there have been many moments where I’ve wanted to quit, I’m sticking with it. Committing to show up, even when it hurts, is the key. 💖

Learning and Growing 🌱

One of the BEST parts about this podcasting adventure has been the people I’ve connected with from around the world. 🌍 Never did I think I’d be talking to someone in Japan or Spain! I’m still in awe of how technology can bring us all together. 💻✨

As a lifelong learner, I’ve had the privilege this year of reading advanced copies of books and discovering authors I wouldn’t have known about if not for this journey. 🙌 Huge thank you to all the amazing authors who have shared their expertise with us on the show! 📖❤️

A Little About Me Right Now 📝

🎶 Favorite Song: “Take It Away” by Neon Adejo
📚 Currently Reading: The Silent Patient
🌟 Best Book I’ve Read This Year: Sunshine and Rein
✈️ Looking Forward To: My trip back home to Canada! 🍁
😤 Can’t Stand Right Now: My job (ugh… still!)
🏋️‍♀️ Working On: My health and fitness
💔 Relationship Status: Single and not looking (and that’s OK!)
🍩 Best New Food: Dough Bomb Donuts – Seriously, the BEST donuts I’ve ever had in my life! 🍩🤤

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