Why starting a dinky little niche podcast is worth it.
I know it probably won’t get a lot of listeners. I don’t even know if I like the title. But the Sleep.ist podcast, my little sleep-obsessed side project, just launched its 8th episode.
I’m proud of that episode, I got to talk to a neuroscientist about what happens to the brain when we sleep. She was fantastic and a wealth of knowledge.
I also know that very few people will listen to the show – podcasting is too crowded of a market and anyone can do it.
So why add to the noise?
Even if no one listens to a single episode of the Sleep.ist, there’s too much upside not to do it:
1) The easiest way to learn how to speak better is to listen to yourself speak. It’s humbling and uncomfortable, but it makes you notice all of the filler words and bad habits our speech patterns develop. I pronounce my R’s weird, and I try too hard to sound smart, instead sounding arrogant at times. Until I heard it, I wouldn’t have known it.
2) I have had sleep issues for years, and have spent too much money on gadgets and supplements with little traction. Now I can talk to the leading experts and sleep authorities, and get their professional feedback.
3) I’m being forced to cold call and sell very busy people on joining my podcast. This skill will translate throughout my life.
4) Getting past the resistance – I committed to doing at least ten episodes, because I knew that the initial fun and luster would wear out by the 3rd. This is usually where I quit and don’t see the idea through. Here I’m forcing myself to keep going, even after the neomania wears down and it feels more like work.
5) And probably the most important skill is learning active listening. Giving your time and undivided attention to the person you’re speaking to. It’s profoundly useful and helps build meaningful connections.
And my ask – if you like podcasts and want to improve your sleep, give a listen to the Sleep.ist. You can find us on iTunes and SoundCloud.
Have a great week!
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