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The Illusion of Perfection in Podcasting

As a podcast producer, almost every other person I meet has a long story about a podcast they’d love to start, but they just haven’t found the time/money/guption/genie in a bottle to do it yet. The thing all these people have in common? The misconception that there will ever be the time, money, gumption or genie in a bottle. Everyone wants things to be perfect. But here’s the catch—perfection in podcasting doesn’t exist. Your podcast will never be perfect, not in the beginning, not 200 episodes in – never, and that’s a good thing! 

Perfectionism is Holding You Back

Perfectionism will smother you. It builds an invisible wall that doesn’t just keep you from crossing the finish line, it stops you from even lacing up your shoes. When you wait for everything to be perfect, you miss out on the real, unique ingredients that listeners crave. The strongest connections are formed in genuine human connection that actually resonates with your audience.

The Power of Relatability in Podcasting

Think about your favorite podcasts or hosts. What draws you to them? Normally, it’s not their flawless delivery or sound design. It’s the way they connect with you on a personal level. Their stories, lived experiences, mistakes, successes, and the unique parts of themselves that you can see yourself in and relate with. 

Building a Connection Through Common Ground

Having the openness and vulnerability to share your true self is key to building a strong listener base. If you’re not open about the unique things that make you who you are, finding common ground with your audience will be difficult. 

Practical Tips to Overcome Perfectionism in Podcasting

Here are some actionable steps to help you move past perfectionism and make your podcast more authentically you:

Plan Ahead (But Be Flexible)

• Content Planning: Know at least the basic outline of your episodes a month ahead of time. If you have an episode that comes out once a week, by the first day of every month you need to know the title of all of your episodes for that month.
• Flexibility in Execution: While planning is crucial, allow yourself the flexibility to adapt and respond to spontaneous moments/or thoughts during recording. 

Engage with Your Audience Authentically

• Community Building: Regularly engage with your listeners through social media, your blog, email list, and anywhere else you exist in-person and online. Ask your listeners questions, pay attention to their struggles and make the effort to know why your listener is listening. 
• Feedback Incorporation: Actively seek and incorporate listener feedback. This not only improves your podcast but also makes your listeners feel valued and part of your podcasting journey.

Embrace and Share Your Learning Curve

• Transparent Learning: Share your learning experiences and challenges. At the end of the day we all just want to know we aren’t alone in the difficulties we face. 
• Consistent Improvement: Focus on consistent improvement rather than perfection. Each episode is an opportunity to learn something new and enhance your skills.

Conclusion: The Beauty of Imperfect Podcasting

In podcasting, so much like in life, there is no such thing as perfect. The moment you can embrace that imperfection, you free yourself to explore, create, and connect more deeply with your audience. 

At its core podcasting is a journey of growth and self-discovery, and every step, misstep, and correction is part of the adventure.So, take a deep breath, press record, and let the world hear what you have to say. Your voice matters, imperfections and all.

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