🎤Attending Podcast Movement as an Introvert

22 Aug 🎤Attending Podcast Movement as an Introvert

👋Hey there Podcaster!

I’m at Podcast Movement this week and going to conferences like this as an ambivert has taught me the importance of pacing myself and embracing informal networking opportunities. Just like attending the conference, podcasting “rules” aren’t set in stone—I’ve found that flexibility and finding what works best for you are key to success. I’ll be sure to share a recap of my experience soon and hopefully hear from anyone else that’s here this week. If you see me, come say hello!

🎤Attending Podcast Movement as an Introvert

How does an introvert navigate the largest podcast conference in the world?

“I’m going to my first podcast conference (Podcast Movement). I just looked at the schedule, and was OVERWHELMED! What would you focus on if you were going to a large podcasting conference for the first time?” –Jonathan Howard, Podcasting Morning Chat

Jonathan went on to share he’s also ‘incredibly introverted’.

I totally get it—conferences like Podcast Movement can be a lot, especially for introverts. The sheer volume of sessions, people, and networking opportunities can easily leave you feeling drained.

However, I’ve discovered a few strategies that’ve helped me (and could help you, whether you’re an introvert, extrovert, or ambivert) to not only survive but thrive in this high-energy setting.

🏃Prioritize and Pace Yourself

One of the most important lessons I’m learning here is the power of selective participation. It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking you need to attend every session to make the most of the conference. But I’ve found that prioritizing a few sessions that genuinely pique my interest allows me to conserve energy and stay engaged. Giving myself permission to skip certain sessions also provides much-needed downtime, whether I spend it alone or with a small, trusted group.

📲 Leverage the Podcast Movement App

The Podcast Movement app has become an indispensable tool for me. It’s not just about staying organized—it’s about staying sane. By using the app to track which sessions my friends and connections are attending, I can tailor my schedule without getting overwhelmed by the vast array of choices. This way, I can ensure I’m hitting the sessions that matter most to me, while still keeping my day manageable.

👋 Roam the Hallways

Some of the best moments of these conferences for me continue to happen outside the formal sessions. The hallways have been a goldmine of valuable connections and advice as I chat where most folks are lingering between sessions. There’s something about the informal atmosphere that makes networking feel less daunting and more natural. If you’re like me and find traditional networking events… a lot, these spontaneous hallway interactions can be incredibly rewarding.

🔌 Remember to Recharge

It’s crucial to listen to your own needs during an event like this. Whenever I start to feel drained, I make it a point to step away and recharge. Whether it’s taking a walk outside, finding a quiet corner, or simply giving myself a moment to breathe, these breaks are essential. They help me reset, ensuring that when I return to the conference, I’m more focused and ready to engage.

Navigating an event of this size as an introvert (or whatever!) isn’t always easy, but with a few mindful strategies, it’s entirely possible to make the experience both enjoyable and rewarding. As I continue to explore the opportunities here, I’m reminded that taking care of my energy allows me to get the most out of every moment.

⛓️‍💥Breaking the “Rules” of Podcasting

Podcasting today seems to come with a never-ending list of “rules.” Everywhere you turn, there’s someone telling you the “right” way to do things if you want your podcast to succeed. But here’s the question: are these rules really set in stone?

In a recent episode of the Podcasting Morning Chat, I decided to share with the community some of the most debated ‘absolutes’ in podcasting to get their thoughts. What did we find? Well, it turns out that a little flexibility might be your best friend.

🕒 Episode Length: Consistent or Flexible?

Let’s start with episode length. You’ve may have heard the saying, “there’s no such thing as too long, only too boring.” Sure, there’s truth to that, but when you’re just starting out, consistency can really help. A consistent episode length sets expectations and builds trust with your listeners. That said, it’s all about finding a balance. Flexibility is key, but don’t underestimate the power of a well-planned, consistent episode duration. It’s one of those things that can make your show feel more reliable to your audience.

📝 Show Notes: SEO Booster or Time Waster?

Then there’s the great show notes debate. Some people swear by long, detailed show notes, arguing that they’re gold for SEO and can drive more traffic to your podcast. They’re not wrong! But let’s be real — how many people actually read them?

Here’s what I suggest: why not do both? Create a short, punchy summary for podcast platforms and a more detailed version for your website. This way, you’re covering all bases — giving those who want the quick version what they need, while also catering to those who like to dig a little deeper.

🎙️ Transcripts: Perfect or Good Enough?

Now, about transcripts. They’re super important for accessibility and SEO, but do they really need to be perfect? I know podcasters who spend hours perfecting their transcripts, either writing them by hand or painstakingly cleaning up the AI-generated ones. But here’s the thing: while accuracy is definitely important, it doesn’t have to be flawless. Focus on making your content accessible without getting caught up in perfection. A good, accessible transcript is better than delaying your episode release just to get everything exactly right.

🏁 Here’s the takeaway: there are best practices in podcasting, but very few hard-and-fast rules. What works for one podcaster (and/or their audience) might not work for others. It’s really about figuring out what works best for you and your audience. Think of these “rules” more like guidelines — they’re there to help, but it’s okay to bend them to fit your style and goals.

💬 Let’s Chat: How Do You Handle Podcasting “Rules”?

Do you stick to the podcasting “rules” or do you tweak them to suit your needs? I’d love to hear how you navigate the world of podcasting.

🎙️Podcasting Morning Chat Highlights🌅

Welcome to your essential morning brew of ideas and insights, the “Podcasting Morning Chat” is a daily show that’s by creators, for creators. A dynamic team of experienced podcasters, entrepreneurs, and producers hosts the PMC. Each episode peels back the curtain on the art of podcasting and content creation. The conversation is a mix of insights, stories, and strategies, tailor-made to keep your content fresh, your audience engaged, and your creative spark alive.

Recorded live every weekday at 7 AM EST on Clubhouse and available via podcast at 7 AM PST, our show has become a cornerstone for podcasters worldwide, offering a unique blend of expert advice, real-world success stories, and innovative ideas. Whether you’re here to enhance your content, expand your audience, or just soak in the collective wisdom of fellow content creators, the PMC is your source for inspiration, empowerment and connection in the podcasting world.

Catch up with the latest episodes and join our global community of creators to kick-start your day with creativity, strategy, and insight.

• August 15th: Episode #134: Do We Really Need Podcasting Rules to Succeed?
• August 16th: Episode #135: Podcast Transcriptions, Podcast Movement, and Podcast Wins
• August 19th: Episode #136: How Podcasting Can Increase Your Confidence
• August 20th: Episode #137: Rewire Your Brain with Podcasting
• August 21st: Episode #138: Apple Podcasts on Android: News and Our Podcast Do-Overs

I’m so grateful to be connected with you and a part of your podcast journey.

All My Best,

👋Marc Ronick

This content was composed with assistance from OpenAI

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