043: Podcast Milestone: Fifty Episodes
Milestone
I just released episode 50! of my podcast, Mike Murphy Unplugged. I vividly remember a conversation I had with an older friend when I mentioned it may take a year before I get traction:
He: You plan on doing this podcast blog thing for a year??
Me: Yes, and hopefully more than that.
He: Wow, good luck with that.
Me: Gee, thanks.
Sometimes only we know how hard we’ve worked on something and for me that is enough. 50 episodes was hard work. Week in and week out I gave it my all and my mind would sometimes hurt because of how much focus and effort I put into each episode. I am efficient with everything I do, but writing podcast scripts takes deep thought for me. I explain complicated concepts that should be visual and I try to make it first-grade simple for people listening on headphones to understand what I’m teaching. Keeping things simple is anything but simple. I feel good about my content.
“If I had more time, I would have said less” — Mark Twain
The Nitty Gritty
I work really hard for 100+ downloads per show (many would not get out of bed for that, but I’m proud that more than my family and 2 friends listen).
I make zero money from my podcast (it costs me $25/month at least). I am the investment.
I have a small email list, but I really want more (hint, hint). I love making my email newsletter and think it’s pretty fun (the content that is).
Audience engagement and feedback is low, but I know people are listening (I don’t email my favorite podcasts every show, but I still appreciate them)
I suck at self-promotion because I have patience and respect others. I like to think there is a method to my madness.
I have no products to sell yet (I’m working on it ;))
I offer one-hour advice/feedback sessions for $150 but so far all my brain picking calls have been free. I suck at that, too. I have a soft spot for the underdog.
I love helping people figure things out.
The Why
I started the podcast to teach others, but the honest answer was I wanted to find my voice and create something I could be proud of. I started an online business because I have an overwhelming urge to serve and share knowledge. When I learn a cool trick or find a useful resource, I want to show anyone who I think it might help them do things better. While I would like to make a good living, happiness and fulfillment are what I seek the most. I have struggled most of my life with self-criticism and pushing myself to always do more. There was always room for improvement with me and I could never just say thanks, when someone told me I did a good job. I annoy the crap out of myself for how self-deprecating I can be. I am learning to ease up on myself (slowly).
Life tips #1,2,3: The next time someone compliments you, say thank you, I appreciate that. Be proud of what you do, always. Don’t apologize for what you create.
Final Thoughts
I’m learning to appreciate myself for my uniqueness. I am special and talented and have skills that nobody in the world has. So do you. 50 episodes of podcasting has helped me realize this. Learn. Create. Move Forward. I believe in my tagline more than ever.
Thanks for listening. I appreciate it more than you know.
Here’s to 5o more. Cheers!
Mike,
recovering self-critic.
My name is Mike Murphy, I’m a one man band and podcaster.
Learn. Create. Move Forward.
Instagram: mikeunplugged
