What’s Stopping You? Do the “Thing” Already

Listen on: Apple | Spotify | Amazon Music | Your Favorite Listening App

Podcasting sounds exciting until fear, perfectionism, or tech overwhelm pulls you back to square one. If you’ve had the idea, the name, the notes in your phone, but just can’t seem to start, this episode is here to clear the mental clutter and help you move forward.

I’m sharing the most common reasons people stay stuck in “someday” mode (myself included) and how to shift out of it with grace (and a little tough love). Whether you’re launching for the first time or finding your way back after a pause, you don’t have to wait for perfect.

What You’ll Hear:

  • Why “the perfect time” to launch your podcast rarely exists

  • How fear of judgment and people-pleasing keeps you from using your voice

  • A fresh perspective on tech overwhelm (and why you don’t need to know it all now)

  • How to handle vulnerable topics when you're worried what others might think

  • The beauty of starting before you feel ready

  • A better question to ask than “Is this good enough?”

Links:

Connect with me on Instagram @dvpodcasts  
Connect with me on Facebook @darlenevictoriawork
Download free podcast resources: darlenevictoria.com/free

32. Podcasting without the pressure: formats that work for you

Feel like podcasting sounds exciting, but also kind of overwhelming? You don’t need to jump into a weekly show to be a podcaster. Listen to hear a breakdown of format options that will help you find a rhythm that fits your life and energy. Whether you're testing the waters or doing things differently this time around, there is a way to podcast that feels sustainable.

Remember, there are no rules in podcasting—just what works for you.

What You’ll Hear:

  • Why a weekly podcast isn’t the only way to podcast

  • Bi-weekly and monthly formats that give you breathing room

  • My favorite option for new podcasters: the limited-run series

  • Pros and cons of producing a limited-run podcast

Links:

31. Video vs. Audio: Do you need video for your podcast?

Does video really belong in podcasting? If you're wondering whether to jump on the video podcast trend, you’re not alone. As someone who loves audio-first, I get it—but there are some solid reasons to consider video, too. So, do you have to use video? Nope. But could it help? Let’s break it down.

What You’ll Hear:

  • Do you need video to have a successful podcast?

  • How video can boost discoverability and engagement

  • Easy ways to incorporate video without filming full episodes

  • The pros and cons of audio vs. video podcasting

  • Tips for making video work for you without overwhelm

Links:

30. Keeping your podcast consistent and on track

Consistency can make or break your podcast, but life, overwhelm, and creative blocks often get in the way. Today, I’m unpacking common obstacles podcasters face and sharing practical solutions to stay on track—or take a pause when needed.

PS: I’ll be on a break from the podcast series throughout December. New episodes will return in January once or twice a month!

In this episode:

  • Why flying by the seat of your pants leads to chaos

  • How to create a realistic schedule that works for you

  • Tips for tackling creative blocks and keeping ideas flowing

  • Navigating life’s curveballs without abandoning your show

  • The power of delegation to lighten your podcasting load

Links:

29. What to do when a podcast interview cannot be used

Recording a podcast interview takes effort, so realizing it can’t be used can be frustrating. Whether it’s a tech fail or the conversation didn’t land, what’s your next move? I’m breaking down two common scenarios and how to handle them professionally.

In this episode:

  • How to address issues like poor audio during or after an interview

  • Navigating content challenges when the interview falls flat

  • Crafting kind, respectful communication with guests

Links:

28. Embracing a shift in your podcast's scope

As the Podcasting Your Way series evolves, so does the scope of this show. What started as a space to share podcast tips and information has transformed into a focus on what YOU bring to the table—how you can make your podcast truly yours.

In addition to sharing a little about the vision of the show moving forward, I’m diving into how to handle scope changes and how to make sure your podcast remains true to your vision—whether that means redefining your direction or adjusting your approach.

In this episode:

  • Why it’s okay for the scope of your podcast to evolve

  • Tips for communicating scope changes clearly with your audience

  • A reminder to update your branding and materials as your podcast shifts

  • Staying true to your original vision while welcoming growth

Links:

27. Streamlining your podcast guest selection process

I’m sharing my streamlined process for finding and selecting incredible podcast guests. If you’ve ever wondered where to start or how to stay organized, this episode is for you!

In this episode:

  • How to create a master list of topic ideas and dream guests

  • Why YES/NO criteria are key to narrowing down your guest list

  • Research strategies to find aligned and qualified guests

Links:

26. The ultimate guest email invitation blueprint

Running out of guests for your podcast? Don’t panic! With billions of potential guests out there, the key is knowing how to find and invite them effectively. From crafting the perfect email to following up like a pro, I’m sharing my best strategies to help you fill your guest list with ease.

In this episode:

  • Why a “No, thank you” isn’t a failure

  • Essentials for a guest invitation email

  • The 3 strikes approach to email follow-ups

Links:

Grab your copy of the Ultimate Guest Invitation Blueprint, here!

Connect with me on Instagram @dvpodcasts or LinkedIn @darlenevictoria

Download free podcast resources: http://darlenevictoria.com/free

Online schedulers mentioned:

Calendly

Acuity

25. Making a highlight/best-of clip show that stands out

Listen on: Apple | Spotify | Amazon Music | Your Favorite Listening App

Do you remember watching "all-new episodes" that turned out to be clip shows? Love them or not, a great clip show can serve up memorable moments and valuable insights your audience will want to revisit. Wondering when to create one and what to include? Let’s dive into the magic of clip shows!

In this episode:

  • Perfect occasions to create a clip show

  • Structuring your clip show for maximum impact

  • Do’s and don’ts for a standout episode

Links:

Connect with me on Instagram @dvpodcasts or LinkedIn @darlenevictoria

Download free podcast resources: http://darlenevictoria.com/free

24. An Ode to Podcasting Your Way

I wrote an ode to podcasting your way on this snowy Saturday morning in November. This episode is very simply me reading the ode to you.

I am including a copy of the ode below in case you want to read it as well. I hope you enjoy it!

An Ode to Podcasting Your Way

Podcasting is a dream come true,
But I must warn you of a thing or two.
Sometimes when you sit down to record,
Tech troubles will pop up, and you’ll lose time you can’t afford.
Or maybe your neighbor will be mowing their lawn,
And a podcast episode recording you will not spawn.
Troubled with background noise or your cat purring too loud,
This is not what you hoped would make you stand out from the crowd.

That’s okay; all is not lost.
You can create a quality show without driving up the cost.
In fact, with tools, education, and a little support,
You’ll be able to create a tip-top episode ready for mp3 export.

You’ll write titles, descriptions, and show notes galore.
Record intros and outros, and maybe coordinate a musical score.
Handle promotion, including posting on socials, maybe even have a ball.
And if you don’t, that’s okay too—it’s podcasting your way, after all.

Bottom line: Podcasting opens you up to so many things, too.
Speaking skills improve, confidence explodes, and it can be a personal development tool through and through.

Keep honing your art. Infuse a little bit of you.
Keep learning, keep engaging, and increase your worldview.

That’s it; this ode is done.
Remember, podcasting your way is your bridge to a world of fun.

Links:

Connect with me on Instagram @dvpodcasts or LinkedIn @darlenevictoria

Download free podcast resources: http://darlenevictoria.com/free