Mindset And Personal Development Episodes

Building a successful podcast through authenticity starts with showing up as your true self. In this episode of Empowered Podcasting LIVE, Jessica Schiller shares why energy, mindset, and genuine connection create a stronger impact than following trends or chasing algorithms. Discover how embracing your authentic voice can help you build deeper audience relationships, create more meaningful content, and grow a podcast that truly resonates. You'll also learn why authentic storytelling creates las...

Some podcasting mistakes stay with you long after the episode ends, the guest you should’ve said no to, the burnout that crept in from chasing numbers, or the moment you realized good gear can’t fix a disconnected show. The morning show cast and crew talk through the hard lessons creators usually learn the messy way, and why those moments often change how you approach podcasting moving forward. There’s also a real conversation about boundaries, trusting your instincts, and knowing when trying to...

Most podcasters assume discovery is the hard part, but the PMS cast and crew get into what really happens after someone clicks on your show. We talk through that moment when a listener is deciding where to start, and why telling people to “Check Out Your Podcast” without direction usually leads to them leaving instead. From trailers and websites to hand-picked episodes and social clips, this conversation keeps circling one idea you’ve probably felt before, you know the one where you open a show ...

Most podcasters don't fail. They stop, often right when something's starting to click. We talk about that moment in this episode, you know the one, where growth feels slow, nobody's commenting, and doubt wins. But here's the thing: progress is already happening. You just can't see it yet. The PMC cast and crew broke down what kills momentum before it even registers. Unclear expectations. Chasing downloads when you should be watching who keeps coming back. Getting buried in the workload. There's ...

What if your podcast is revealing more about you than you realize? Today’s conversation explores how a simple exercise can uncover the deeper reasons behind why we podcast. From finishing the sentence “I started my podcast because…” to sharing the episodes we’re most proud of, this episode highlights the purpose, growth, and personal stories behind each creator’s journey. You’ll hear how podcasts evolve over time, how meaningful moments shape a show, and how unexpected opportunities and relation...

Today, we break down what it really takes to keep podcasting simple and sustainable, even when you’re on the road. I share my practical travel setup that proves you don’t need a complicated or expensive system to stay consistent. Then we shift into a bigger conversation about competition in podcasting and why so many creators overthink it. We challenge the idea that the space is too crowded and explain why your voice, your perspective, and your consistency matter far more than trying to stand ou...

What’s the best part of podcasting… and what’s the part nobody warns you about? Today, we explore the highs and lows that come with running a podcast. This ranges from hosting meaningful conversations to frustrations that show up behind the scenes. You’ll hear stories about common mistakes, the pressure around monetization, the grind of promotion, and the many moving parts that go into producing a show. At the same time, the conversation highlights why so many creators keep showing up behind the...

What do you do when hateful comments land harder than you expect? Today, we’re cracking into the mailbag and starting with a candid conversation about dealing with trolls and the inner critic that can flare up when your work is put out in public. That’s just one of the listener questions we tackle. We also continue the ongoing audio vs. video discussion, exploring why this question keeps coming up and what podcasters should consider before changing their format or adding more to their workflow. ...

Most podcasters don’t quit because they fail; they quit because they stop recognizing their progress. Today, we take a closer look at what real wins actually look like when you’re in the work week after week. While our lead host, Marc, is at PodFest, Ralph Estep takes the wheel and guides us through a poignant discussion on recognizing wins beyond the numbers and not taking your accomplishments for granted. We share heartfelt examples of progress that are easy to overlook: showing up on a hard d...

Have you ever received feedback on your podcast that just didn’t sit right, but you couldn’t tell if it was something to fix or something to ignore? While our fearless leader, Marc, is at Podfest, co-host Ralph Estep steps in to guide a thoughtful conversation about feedback and how podcasters can take it in without getting defensive or second-guessing everything they’re building. This episode centers on one key idea: not everyone gets a vote in your podcast. We explore how feedback often shows ...

As we close out the year, today we slow down and reflect together. This final Morning Chat of 2025 is not about tactics, growth hacks, or chasing trends. It is a community pause. We look back on the wins that reminded us why we podcast, share one word we want to carry into 2026, and talk about how we want to show up for our listeners in the year ahead. You will hear honest reflections about creative fatigue, motivation, consistency, boundaries, and the seasons that come with making content over ...

As 2025 winds down, we pause to reflect on the choices shaping where we’re headed next in our podcasting journeys and beyond. We explore the impact of saying yes and no as a community, through honest stories about doubt, trust, rest, creativity, and change. We share what it looks like to release patterns that no longer fit, and how small, intentional choices can create space for clarity. This conversation isn’t about having it all figured out. It’s about noticing where we are, listening to each...

Recently, I had one of those gut-punch moments every creator dreads: a dream interview, a perfect conversation… and I realized afterward that I never hit record. It was embarrassing, frustrating, and, honestly, it shook me more than I expected. Instead of hiding it, I’m bringing the whole story here, the missteps, the emotions, and the lesson I learned about giving myself grace when things go wrong. And I’m not alone. In today’s episode, other creators from our community open up about their own ...

What’s your go-to ritual for shaking off negativity? Today’s conversation begins with that simple question and unfolds into a powerful talk about handling feedback as a creator. We explore how to process what’s useful, release what’s not, and protect your peace in the middle of the noise. You’ll hear fresh perspectives on reflection, gratitude, and staying grounded when opinions fly your way. If you’ve ever second-guessed a review or let a comment get under your skin, this episode is your remind...

Have you ever had an experience that changed the way you show up in the world? One that reignited your passion and reminded you why you care so deeply? Today I return from a 19-day summer break after volunteering at Camp Footprint, a sleepaway camp for kids living with CMT (Charcot Marie Tooth Disease). I served on the programming staff and rediscovered “Little Marc,” the playful, present version of myself who still believes in the power of community. This experience reminded me that podcasting ...

What was one thing you said yes to that brought you where you are today? That’s the question of the day. Today, we share about the moments that move us forward and how one yes can lead to new paths and creative growth, and we reflect on how decisions shape our journeys. So this is your sign if you're thinking about a new project or looking back on what got you to where you are currently, this conversation will inspire you. Thank you for your support. In observation of Independence Day in the US...

Is failure real, or just feedback in disguise? This episode will shift your perspective if you've ever felt like giving up. Co-host Sid Meadows leads us in a powerful conversation about why the idea of failure might hold you back and how reframing it as feedback can change everything. Sid’s questions led to us sharing personal stories of rough starts, awkward interviews, and major redirections that made their podcasts and businesses stronger. We wrap the episode with reflections on courage, comm...

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and while Marc is away on vacation, the Podcasting Morning Chat crew steps up and takes on the hard conversations around mental health and taboo topics in podcasting. Hosted by award-winning podcaster Dominic Lawson, this episode explores how podcasters can approach sensitive subjects with care, honesty, and respect. The team explores how personal stories build connection, why community care matters, and what it takes to shift stigma in podcasting. Episode ...

Why is it harder to share your podcast with friends than with strangers? Even after years of creating, I still feel that fear. Today, we’re unpacking Imposter Syndrome and how to move past the fear of being judged. Before I say bon voyage for vacation, we’ll celebrate our wins from the week. And next week, the Empowered Podcasting Team will take the reins with fresh conversations that will inspire you! Episode Highlights: [01:20] Vacation Plans and Excitement [08:11] Facing the Fear of Sharing...

Have you ever stepped out of your comfort zone because you knew it could lead to a breakthrough? Recently, I performed in an improv showcase, and after this experience, I realized how much I've learned from the class translates into the podcasting space and vice versa. This revelation inspired this conversation on how trying new things, like performing, skating, or stand-up comedy, can enhance your creativity. Through our discussion, we share the unconventional activities we have been trying and...

Have you ever listened to your old episodes and can barely get through them? Do you cringe when you hear your voice or how you presented yourself? This is a situation even the most experienced podcasters find themselves in, and today we tackle the dilemma of whether or not to delete episodes that make us tense up inside. Inspired by fellow podcaster Meredith from 'Meredith for Real,' who worries about sponsors seeing her early work, we weigh the pros and cons, hear from experienced podcasters, a...

What do you do when the first piece of negative feedback hits you right in the feels? Today’s episode dives into the emotional sting of criticism — especially for podcasters — and how to process it without derailing your confidence. We dig into real-life stories, practical mindset shifts, and the power of “Let Them Theory” to help you build resilience and stay focused on your podcasting purpose. Plus, we wrap the week with some wins from our community... Episode Highlights: [02:51] Exploring t...

Have you ever stopped to ask yourself why you really podcast? Today, we explore how our purpose evolves over time and what keeps us showing up. We share personal stories about podcasting through pain and rediscovering joy through storytelling. To wrap up the week, we share our wins and celebrate each other’s progress. Episode Highlights: [02:02] Community Shoutouts and Appreciation [05:29] Reflecting on Your 'Why' [06:46] Personal Stories and Evolution of Purpose [10:59] Audience Engagement ...

Have you ever felt drained? Have you ever questioned your passion? Today, I opened up about my struggles with low motivation and adjusting to a new season of life. With my co-hosts by my side, we shared honest reflections on surviving the times that challenge us most and the steps we take to find the energy to keep going. One of the ideas that came up was creating a playlist of uplifting songs to help carry us through those inward battles and moments of self-doubt. So if you’re in a slump or jus...