If you've ever asked yourself, “Am I born or made to be a podcaster?” this episode is for you. In my conversation with Larry G. Dix II, bestselling author and host of the Born or Made Podcast, you'll get honest, behind-the-scenes insight into what it really takes to grow — not just a podcast, but as a person in the process. Larry shares the ups and downs of his unconventional journey, from starting out with zero podcasting experience to building a show that explores how top leaders think and operate.
In this episode, you'll find out:
Why embracing flexibility and being open to change can unlock opportunities for your show, even if your original plan starts to shift.
How focusing on storytelling, genuine curiosity, and careful listening (instead of canned questions) will help you create deeper connections and standout interviews.
Whether you’re just getting started or feeling stuck, Larry’s perspective will remind you it’s normal to learn as you go, and that your growth as host is just as important as your show’s growth. Dive in for a relaxed, real talk that might just help you get unstuck, too.
Connect With Larry G. Dix II
Website: https://bornormadepodcast.com
Website: https://larrygdix.com
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Chapters
00:00 Meet Larry G. Dix II
01:19 The Story Behind “Born or Made”
02:52 Asking Guests: Born, Made, or Built?
03:19 How Long the Podcast Has Been Running
03:51 Larry’s First Podcasting Experiences
04:23 Comfortable Conversations & Loosening Up
05:33 Surprising Backstories Guests Reveal
05:53 Biggest Challenges Starting Out
06:36 The Power of Listening as Host
07:12 Podcasting Habits That Spill Into Life
07:47 Why Larry Loves People’s Stories
09:06 Behind-the-Scenes: Episode Production
10:08 Who’s On the Podcast Team
10:50 Balancing AI With the Human Touch
12:09 Recording in Different Studios
13:06 In-Person vs. Remote Conversations
14:53 Lessons from Marathon Interview Days
15:57 Knowing Your Limits as a Host
17:00 Why In-Person Feels Different
17:58 Evolving Growth Strategies
18:26 Launching With a Book, Pivoting to a Podcast
19:17 Keeping the Format Flexible
20:16 Building Brand Around Your Name
21:24 Testing, Pivoting, and Social Content Ideas
22:51 Letting Listeners (and the Market) Decide
24:07 The Podcast’s Personal Impact
25:25 Why Guests Aren’t So Different After All
26:53 Overcoming Fear and Mental Hurdles
29:36 Honest Conversations About Failure
30:02 The Real Value for Listeners
31:30 No Such Thing As Overnight Success
32:15 Sharing the Full Journey, Not Just the Highs
33:41 Feedback From Guests and Listeners
35:10 Interviewing as a Two-Way Street
36:10 Podcasting’s Finances and Reality Check
37:13 Costs, Investments, and Long-Term Bets
39:20 The Bare Essentials for Gear
41:45 Getting the Setup Right, Not Fancy
43:14 Leveraging Your Unique Strengths
46:42 Focusing on the Gain, Not the Gap
48:17 Big Projects: New Book and Framework
49:18 Where to Find Larry and His Resources
50:41 Final Reflections and Thanks