Getting Out of Your Own Way: Finding the Courage to Podcast

Hey, it’s Dave Jackson. In this episode, I’m talking directly to those of you who want to start a podcast but feel paralyzed by fear, perfectionism, or that nagging voice telling you you’re not good enough. I share my personal tips for getting your content out of your head and into the world—without letting things like criticism or imperfect editing stop you.

I start by reflecting on a post I saw on Reddit, where someone struggled with overthinking, fear of criticism, and worrying about making mistakes. This resonated with me because I've definitely felt the same way. I break down how I personally organize my thoughts: writing a blog post, reading it several times to get the overall message, and then distilling it into bullet points I riff on while recording—just like I’m talking to a friend across the desk.

Do People Care About Ums?

I address the big question: do people actually care if you ramble, or if your audio isn’t perfect? The truth is, people only care if you waste their time. An “um” here or there isn’t the problem—what matters is not losing their attention or making the show all about you with no lesson or value.

It Doesn't Have to Be Perfect

I also highlight the importance of starting small and being okay with imperfection. Your first episode won’t be as good as your tenth, and that’s totally normal. Focus on your audience and what they need to hear, rather than dwelling on your own fears.

When your need to serve outweighs your fear of looking silly, you'll finally press record and publish.I Have A Cold

I even recorded this episode while I had a cold—proof that you don’t have to be perfect to provide value! If you need feedback, consider joining a listener party at the School of Podcasting, where you can get constructive, uplifting advice on your episode before going live.

If you want help or someone to listen to your work, visit schoolofpodcasting.com and use the coupon code "listener" for a discount. Thanks for joining me, and remember: don’t let perfectionism keep you from creating a truly great podcast. I’d love to see what happens when we work together.

My WorkFlow

This is what works for me.:

1. Write a blog.

This helps me figure out what I'm trying to say and how I want people to feel.

1. Read Your blog Three times.

This helps you get it into your brain. Not to memorize, but to "get the gist of it." Do not cheat. read the whole thing from top to bottom three times.

1. Boil it down to bullet points

This is the map to attempt to keep you on track

1. Press Record and Talk To Your Friend

Much like a phone call, press record and talk to the invisible person on the other side of your desk and "riff" on your bullet points.

1. Edit

Anything that went off the rails too much, edit out. That starts with knowing who you are talking to.

This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:

OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy