Following on from the topic of self-help coaching and mentoring this month, I thought I would talk a bit this week about how embarking on new projects in podcasting and how self-doubt has impacted this, and how coaching helped unblock me. These challenges, dominated by the whispers of imposter syndrome, have been a significant part of my professional journey. And has led me to talk to you here on my own podcast today

So let’s dive in!

Links for this episode:

https://commsthatworks.thinkific.com/courses/start-audio-podcast-masterclass

Full Transcript (Unedited)

The Challenge of New Beginnings

When starting something new, such as a podcast or, like Jo explained last episode,  coaching venture, it’s natural to feel a mix of enthusiasm and nervousness. This blend was particularly poignant for me as I navigated starting my own podcast. One big issue being Imposter syndrome—the feeling that you might be a “fraud” despite evident successes—has been a recurring obstacle, presenting a distorted perception of my own capabilities.  

Reflecting on my journey, I recall numerous moments filled with doubt and how pushing through these moments was essential for my development and to eventually create the podcast you are listening to today. Each challenge I faced and overcame has helped dismantle the persistent feelings of imposter syndrome, strengthening my confidence and affirming my expertise.

Here are a couple of things I have picked up on along the way;

1.How Coaching Helps Break Barriers

Effective coaching transcends the transfer of knowledge; it involves providing a framework for psychological support and confidence-building. This approach has not only shaped my clients’ success but has also been crucial in my own personal development and for those I coach through my zero to launch podcast coaching programme.

2.The Importance of Pushing Through Discomfort

I’ve learned that embracing discomfort is essential for growth. The initial stages of any venture are likely to feel uncomfortable as they involve stepping into the unfamiliar. However, these moments of discomfort are often where the most significant growth occurs. Setting small, achievable goals has helped me steadily overcome fears, reinforcing my capabilities with each step forward.

Jo and I talked about this last episode where I said it’s a guttural discomfort like nothing else that prevents us from moving forward.  But, this is our passion shining through for whatever it is we are doing, and we have to feel it raw like that, to get past it and move on. Unless you feel it, really feel it, it means it doesn’t matter.

For me this was as simple as talking into a microphone initially. Weird i know when staring a podcast, then it moved ont o launching and making that content live was the hardest thing I’ve done in a while.

In summary brace yourself for the Journey Ahead

My conversations about overcoming imposter syndrome have reinforced a vital lesson: mastering new skills involves recognising and confronting these challenges head-on. The discomfort initially felt is not an indicator of future failure but rather a common experience that, when navigated successfully, paves the way for professional and personal growth.

For anyone at the threshold of beginning something new, remember that true advancement comes from stepping out of our comfort zones. With the right support and a commitment to face your doubts, you can transform feelings of impostorship into assured ownership and recognised expertise in your field.

If you are looking for help to start and launch your podcast, then check out my coaching programme for more info.

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