In this episode, we talked about:
- Choosing the right platform for your content and strengths
- The time commitment required for long-form content
- Overcoming self-consciousness and finding your voice
- The importance of promotion and being your own advocate
- Managing perfectionism and embracing iterative growth
- Viewing content creation as a long-term journey
- Staying motivated by remembering your “why”
Listen to the full episode now:
“Putting your content out there is just the first part of the equation—promotion is everything.”
Timestamp:
0:00 intro
3:16 why I chose to start a podcast
6:00 long-form content takes a lot more time to create
10:46 it takes time to find your voice on the microphone
14:06 you have to be your number 1 fan
17:01 there is always room for improvement
20:34 content creation is a long term game
23:51 summary
25:01 outro
“Perfectionism will stop you from starting; iteration will take you further than waiting for perfect conditions.”
Detailed Summary:
Introduction
Starting a creative journey is exhilarating—but also full of unexpected challenges. In this episode of Small Girl Big Talk, Wendy shares her experience three months into podcasting, the lessons she’s learned, and advice for anyone looking to start a content creation journey of their own.
Why Wendy Chose Podcasting
Wendy explains why she picked podcasts over other platforms: she wanted long-form content to dive deep into struggles around adulthood, relationships, confidence, and quarter-life crises. While YouTube was an option, the visual demands were too time-consuming alongside her full-time job. Podcasting allowed her to focus on her strengths: her voice, words, and stories, while keeping production manageable.
Key Lessons from 3 Months of Podcasting
- Long-form content takes time – Planning, scripting, and editing are more demanding than short-form content. Episodes can require hours of prep and recording, and editing can be daunting, especially for audio-only content.
- Finding your voice takes practice – Speaking naturally and confidently on a microphone is a skill. Wendy shares that even after years of content creation, she still practices, re-records, and refines her delivery. Patience and repeated practice are essential.
- You must be your own number one fan – Promotion is just as important as creation. Sharing episodes, repurposing content for social media, and giving clear instructions to supporters helps your work reach more people.
- Perfectionism is the enemy of progress – There will always be ways to improve audio, video, or editing. Wendy emphasizes starting with what you have now, learning along the way, and iterating step by step. Waiting for “perfect conditions” stalls growth.
- Content creation is a long-term game – Success takes time. Wendy reflects on her first three months: 12 episodes, 17 new Spotify friends, and 500+ plays. While small, these milestones represent courage and consistency. Passion might get you started, but discipline and perseverance sustain the journey.
- Remember your “why” – Creating this podcast is about building the community Wendy wished she had—supporting others, and making listeners feel less alone in adulthood. Staying connected to that purpose helps navigate challenges and burnout.
Conclusion
Podcasting—and creative pursuits in general—are challenging but rewarding. Wendy’s journey shows that patience, practice, and persistence are key. By embracing the process, focusing on growth rather than immediate results, and staying connected to your purpose, anyone can take steps toward their creative dreams.
