What 24 Hours at Podfest Taught Me About Podcasting, People, and Saying Yes to New Opportunities!

Podcasting became a lane I didn’t expect to love as much as I do—but 2025 made it official.

Between managing The Freedom Blueprint Podcast and guesting on shows covering everything from leadership and goal management to writing, Christmas, pop culture, and my own 43-year journey, podcasting has become one of my favorite ways to connect. There’s something powerful about real conversations with real people—no perfection required.

So, when the host of Freedom Blueprint had a last-minute change of plans, and I was asked—one week out—to attend Podfest in his place—I said "Yes" even though I couldn't stay for the whole event.

I packed a bag, drove seven hours to Orlando, and committed to making the most of 24 hours at a three-day conference. Was it worth it? Absolutely. Here’s what stood out:

There Truly Is a Podcast About Everything - And that’s kind of the point.

One of my biggest takeaways was just how expansive the podcasting world really is. There are shows about everything—serious, silly, niche, nostalgic, deeply specific—and people are showing up for them.

Why? Because people want to relate. They want to feel connected. They want to hear perspectives that mirror their own experiences or challenge them in interesting ways.

It became immediately obvious: Of course, I love podcasting. Building relationships and connecting through conversation has always been part of how I move through the world. Podcasting is just that—on a microphone.

Podcasting Is Valuable & So Are You - And monetization isn’t a dirty word.

Another clear message from Podfest: podcasting takes time, energy, creativity, and resources—and that investment has value.

Monetization isn’t about being a salesman or saleswoman. It’s about sustainability. There are countless ways to make money in the podcast space, and no single “right” model. The key is aligning monetization with your goals, your audience, and your bandwidth.

Translation: You are allowed to treat your voice, your ideas, and your time like they matter. Because they do.

Speaking is a skill - and skills can be built - No one is “done” getting better.

One of my favorite reminders from the event was this: even strong speakers can keep sharpening their craft.

Improv classes. Acting classes. Public speaking training. Coaching. Virtual or in-person—it all counts. The people who are most compelling on a mic are usually the ones who’ve put intentional time into getting better.

Podcasting isn’t just about what you say. It’s about how you listen, respond, pace, and show up. And the good news? Those are learnable skills.

Progress doesn’t require perfect conditions - it requires participation.

Was 24 hours ideal? No. Did I attend every session I wanted to? Also no.

But I showed up. I connected. I learned. I confirmed that this lane—the podcasting lane—is one I want to keep leaning into.

Which brings me to a goal I’m putting out into the world for 2026 (because saying it out loud matters): I’d love to be a co-host or a regular guest on a show. I may have my own podcast one day—but partnering with someone feels like the right next step. I’m sharing it here to create a little accountability—and to see where this path leads.

Staying on course doesn’t mean staying in one lane. Sometimes it looks like packing a bag, driving seven hours, and trusting that even 24 hours can move you forward.

And honestly? That might be one of my favorite lessons yet.