Hi everyone, Gareth here with an important update.

After an amazing run, Podcasting People is coming to an end. It’s been a fantastic journey, and I’ve loved sharing insights from some of the best minds in podcasting with you. But as I shift my focus to other creative projects - including my hyper-local show The Sheppertonian and my work in the podcast and music industries - it feels like the right time to close this chapter.

A huge thank you to every guest who shared their wisdom and every listener who kept me going. Your support has meant the world to me, and I hope the episodes we’ve created will continue to be a valuable resource for podcasters for years to come.

Thanks for being part of Podcasting People. It’s been an absolute pleasure.

Links

If you want to stay connected, you can still find me over at The Sound Boutique and on LinkedIn & Bluesky. I’d love to keep the conversation going.

The Podcasting People website

This podcast is produced and edited at The Sound Boutique by Gareth Davies.

Mentioned in this episode:

Podcasting People Community

The Sound Boutique

Liam Heffernan, an award-winning independent podcaster and founder of the new podcast network Mercury, joins Gareth to discuss his mission to empower indie creators. Recognising the gap in support for smaller shows that are too big to be overlooked but too small to catch the attention of major networks, Liam aims to revolutionise the space by prioritising the needs of these creators. He emphasises the importance of content as the foundation for growth and monetisation, urging podcasters to focus on what they love without getting bogged down by the pressure to monetise too quickly. As Mercury launches with a diverse lineup of shows and plans for original content, Liam shares his vision for fostering a supportive community of independent podcasters. The conversation highlights the unique challenges independent creators face and the innovative approach Mercury is taking to address them.

Takeaways:

• Liam Heffernan is revolutionising podcasting by emphasising the needs of independent creators.
• The Mercury network aims to support smaller shows in monetising without losing control.
• Independent podcasters often struggle with promotion and monetisation, which Mercury seeks to address.
• The focus for indie podcasters should be on creating engaging content that they love.
• Liam's experience as an independent podcaster shapes Mercury's mission to empower creators.
• The podcasting landscape is evolving, and new networks like Mercury fill essential gaps.

• Mercury on LinkedIn
• Liam on LinkedIn
• Mercury Podcast Network – Make Some Noise.

Produced by https://bio.link/garethsounds at https://www.thesoundboutique.com.

Guest: Taylor James

Job title: Lead Podcast Producer

Company: Twentytwo Productions

Imposter syndrome can be a significant hurdle for many in the podcasting industry, but it doesn't have to hold you back. Taylor James, founder of Twentytwo Productions, shares valuable insights on embracing your unique voice and passion while navigating the competitive landscape of podcasting. He reflects on his journey from launching the Waffle Shop podcast to amassing a million downloads, highlighting the freedom that comes with sharing your story. Despite the challenges and comparisons that can creep in, Taylor emphasises the importance of staying true to your passion and maintaining consistency. Tune in for encouragement to silence the noise of competition and focus on what truly matters: your love for podcasting.

Takeaways:

• Embrace the freedom of podcasting to share your authentic story without restrictions.
• Imposter syndrome is common; focus on your passion and ignore the comparison trap.
• Consistency is crucial in podcasting; remind yourself of your purpose during tough days.
• Stay positive and stay in your lane, avoiding the noise of competition.
• Don't let the metrics define your worth; focus on your niche and audience engagement.
• Recognise that everyone faces challenges; remember why you started your podcasting journey.

Links

• The Waffle Shop on Instagram
• Twentytwo Productions

The Podcasting People website

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This podcast is produced and edited at The Sound Boutique by Gareth Davies.

Mentioned in this episode:

The Sound Boutique