What Podcasts Are Millennials Listening To?

It’s no secret podcasts have been booming in popularity for years. Now they are among the leading entertainment mediums, news outlets, and knowledge sources for most of the American population. This is especially true for Gen X and Millennials! Young listeners aged 12-35 make up over 50% of monthly podcast listeners. Millennials are both listeners and podcasters, essentially fueling the podcast space. They are the demographic that listens the most to these shows, with one-third of millennials regularly listening to podcasts. Millennials also share their favorite shows on social media or by recommending them directly to their friends, as shown by how 40% of the people who listen to podcasts found out about them.

As you can see, Millennials are a vital part of the podcasting industry. If you’re a podcast content creator or host, it’s important to know what kind of shows they listen to and what content they enjoy the most so you can learn to cater your podcast to this massive demographic. If you’re an advertiser, it’s definitely a good idea to hone in on what the millennial generation is consuming. And finally, if you’re a millennial just looking for great podcasts, this post is for you! Today we’re sharing what Millennials are listening to nowadays! We’re listing the podcasts that millennials are tuning into weekly, sharing, and subscribing to. Keep reading to see the most popular podcasts with Millennials!

What Podcasts Are Millennials Listening To?

TSC Him & Her with Lauryn & Michael Bosstick

Lauryn and Michael don’t hesitate to talk about the stickier subjects. This weekly podcast covers everything from digital entrepreneurship and blogging to relationship advice and self-growth tips. All topics that Millennials love! As leading personalities in the digital space, they are regularly joined by influencers, experts, and industry leaders. Lauryn and Michael interview each guest with humor, vulnerability, and candid authenticity. This show is a must-listen for anyone interested in entrepreneurship, self-growth, lifestyle tips, and digital marketing. They really do cover a wide range of topics, which millennials love. You can get a full range of inspiration and motivation. One week they’re talking with David Meltzer about entrepreneurship, and the next week you might hear from a celebrity stylist. Really nothing is off limits and millennials are always entertained.

Work Party with Jaclyn Johnson

Millennials looking to master all things work and business needs to give this show a good listen. It’s the podcast to follow if you want to take your career to the next level and could use the advice of the latest generation of girl bosses. Jaclyn gives you the best tips on how to pivot your professional journey and take the reins of your career. She doesn’t shy away from mental health topics, like in this fantastic episode with Ashley Brooke. And, yes, Jaclyn interviews a brand new guest almost every week! So get ready to listen to a podcast hosting a lot of inspiring success stories and learn how to take practical action within business and finances.

The Femails with Lauren McGoodwin

The Femails is another great podcast for aspiring, career-driven millennials. On this show Lauren McGoodwin of Career Contessa deep dives into the world of women, work, and all things relating to building a successful and fulfilling career on your terms. She takes a real-talk approach to women’s career development that is relatable and actually useful and applicable to your own life. You’ll hear incredible stories from women regarding their explorations, failures, and triumphs.

For more podcasts for female entrepreneurs, this article has a great list.

With Whit with Whitney Port

Whitney made a name for herself on the reality show The Hills, so most Millennials have at least heard of her. But she didn’t stop there! She grew her own business outside of fashion and became a leading voice for all things entrepreneurship and personal growth. Whitney’s podcast is perfect for when you want to get inspired by listening to some down-to-earth conversations. Even a 1:1 mental health update is encouraging listen with Whitney as your host. She also covers a huge variety of topics! From relationships and parenthood to entrepreneurship, fashion, and wellness – this show has it all for millennials!

Trading Secrets with Jason Tartick

Every Millennial should know one or two key details about investing, trading, and finances. It’s just how the money industry is moving forward! Jason is an expert and not afraid to tackle all the taboo topics related to money and trading secrets. Plus, he’s a former Bachelor star so millennials know and love him! On his show, Jason explains everything you need to know about a specific topic in each episode, usually accompanied by a fellow financial expert. The concept of an inside scoop takes a whole new meaning on this podcast! You will learn all you need to know to navigate the tricky world of trading and investing. Ever heard of day trading with student loans? This is a great episode for millennials. Tune in to Jason’s show for your weekly listens on money and finances.

I Love You So Much with Kenzie Elizabeth

Kenzie is a lifestyle blogger and YouTuber that’s here to update you on all things to help you live your best life. Between her bubbly, candid personality and her honest content, she’s the best car ride or apartment clean-out buddy! You’ll find new guests during most episodes. Industry experts, artists, influencers, and entrepreneurs, ILYSM covers all your lifestyle content needs. Kenzie will be your new guide for branding, productivity, and even navigating the crazy world of the twenties.

The Uncomfortable Podcast With Dom Roberts

Getting uncomfortable doesn’t have to be a bad thing. And creative activist Dom Roberts is here to guide you through that process! Her podcast helps you confront some of today’s most sticky topics in order to grow and take a stand for what you believe in. Dom’s content is right in the middle of entertainment, news, and education. What matters is that Dom is here to lead the conversations with guests from diverse backgrounds and with more than one great story to tell. She covers many uncomfortable subjects and uses her personal experience to help find ways to overcome those uncomfortable feelings. But, this episode on mental health and recovering from burnout is specifically one of our personal favorites.

Real Pod with Victoria Garrick

Millennials love to get real. And it doesn’t get any more real than in Real Pod with host Victoria Garrick. She is a former Division I volleyball player went mental health and body positivity advocate. Get ready for practical advice and wellness tips, as well as a lot of coming down-to-earth related to social media and hustle culture. Victoria invites amazing guests every week, from athletes, celebrities, industry experts, and fellow mental health advocates. Her show is inspiring and, most importantly, 100% real! So brace yourself and tune in to one of her episodes. We recommend this candid conversation about unfiltered food freedom realizations!

The Ali Kolbert Show with Ali Kolbert

We all know Eat Pray Love. But what about Eat Pray Dump? Welcome to Ali Kolbert’s take on the journey through adulthood! As a stellar comedian, Ali gives out advice that might be tough to hear but is absolutely needed. She is joined by her sister, Jackie, on this deep dive into being a functioning adult (or at least faking it ‘till you make it). This show is hilarious but is also not afraid to go there and speak about the things no one dares to, which millennials love. Take this episode on leveling up and losing your ego as an example. Ali is here to help you grow and laugh in the process.

Also, if you feel like you need any more comedy shows in your life, check out our list of the best comedy podcasts.

The Art Of Being Well with Dr. Will Cole

Well-being is such an integral part of our lives amidst our fast-paced existence. It’s important for Millennials and really all generations to take better care of their physical and mental health. That’s where Dr. Cole’s show comes in! This podcast is your digital hub for all things related to your personal wellness journey. With new and exciting guests each week, Dr. Cole shares the latest ways to practice self-care and improve your overall health. Kick off your listening experience with this collaborative episode between Dr. Cole and Marianna Hewitt from Life With Me.

Life With Me with Marianna Hewitt

Many millennials already know Marianna through her blog and skincare brand. So it’s no surprise millennials also flock to her podcast. This podcast is packed full of inspiration for millennials. Marianna often interviews influencers and brand founders that millennials already know and love. Plus, she’s constantly sharing insight on topics millennials love discussing like brand building, social media success, skincare, makeup, fitness, blogging, and so much more.

Dear Gabby with Gabby Bernstein

Who wouldn’t want to have a personal life coach available through a quick audio file? Gabby is a bestselling author and international speaker dedicated to coaching listeners through life changes and tough moments. Her episodes are focused on practical tips for personal growth and inspiring advice to help you reach your goals. You will learn how to take action on your dreams and be more confident in yourself. This is the show for you if you are all about growth and maintaining a positive mindset!

The Blonde Files Podcast with Arielle Lorre

Arielle Lorre is here to cover all of your burning questions about wellness, lifestyle, beauty, and so much more. She engages in meaningful conversations to make sure you get the inside scoop and the best insights. From how to optimize your health, to whether or not to have kids, to beauty tips and brand building, she’s going there. Millennials love this podcast because of the unique candor and Arielle’s multifaceted interests. This show is a must-subscribe for anyone who wants to live their best life and look good doing it.

What are the best podcasts for Millennials?

If you’re a Millennial, we would love to know which shows are your favorite in the comments below. We can even add them to our list! And if you’re a Millennial and haven’t tuned into any of these shows, get on it! For any podcasters or brands out there, hopefully, this post was super insightful as to what Millennials are into. They are the biggest demographic of young listeners within the podcasting industry. So, it’s key to be aware of their preferences.

You can find these shows plus more on the Dear Media shows page.

How To Set Boundaries With Family

Healthy relationships are built on mutual respect and boundaries. Respect and boundaries save and protect relationships because there are clear expectations of what is and is not acceptable. Setting boundaries is the best way to honor yourself and create fulfilling relationships. Relationships that add value to your life, make you feel good, that doesn’t drain your energy. Unhealthy boundaries in relationships can cause stress, unhappiness, and an overall feeling of suffocation. And for the record, boundaries are not just for friends and romantic relationships. Boundaries are essential when it comes to family. 

How To Set Boundaries With Family

Why Is Setting Boundaries Important With Family?

If the idea of seeing a certain family member only causes you to worry and get nervous, there is something in that relationship that needs to change. Toxic family connections lead to difficulties creating genuine relationships, and discomfort, & often end in a giant blowout. So it’s important to protect your mental health, avoid a family brawl, and maintain healthy boundaries as a priority. Blood may be thicker than water, but it doesn’t have to be thicker than the boundaries you set to protect your energy and mental wellness. So, today we’re getting real about how to set boundaries with family, tips, and techniques for maintaining boundaries, and how to communicate your boundaries with sternness, love, & comparison.

Start with yourself and practice self-awareness.

The first step to setting healthy boundaries is first and foremost taking a hard look in the mirror. Practicing self-awareness does not equal blaming yourself. It’s just a willingness to recognize your behavior with an honest outlook. So first and foremost should try to recognize how you’ve contributed to unhealthy boundaries in your family. For example, if you’re constantly over-sharing with an over-opinionated mother, take note. Maybe you’ve been overly critical of another family member’s actions. Do you have a codependent relationship with any family members? Or if you’re consistently involving your parents when you fight with a sibling, just acknowledge and recognize your patterns of behavior. It’s important for you to first recognize how you might be contributing to unhealthy boundaries with family members, and consider how you can act differently so healthy boundaries are encouraged for the entire family. 

This episode of ILYSM dives deep into setting physical boundaries, codependency, processing emotion, & more. It’s a great listen if those are things you’re currently struggling with.

Reflect on the reasons you want or need to set boundaries.

There are unhealthy relationships, and then there are abusive relationships. If the reason you’re setting boundaries is to have more healthy interactions with your parents and siblings, get more joy out of your familial relationships, and overall feel less drained and more fulfilled by your family relationships the tips on this list will help. If you’re experiencing any kind of trauma or abuse because of your family relationships, you may need more firm boundaries with the support of professionals. So keep that in mind as you’re considering how to set boundaries with family. 

Commit to honoring yourself.

To maintain your boundaries moving forward, you have to commit to honoring yourself, your values, and your needs. Commit to making yourself, your happiness, and your mental health and wellness your priority. Also, make sure to accept that it’s okay to make yourself the priority. It doesn’t mean you love your family any less. Choose to honor yourself and your needs so that you can show up more present, happy, and energized when you’re around your family. 

Identify your triggers and get ahead of them.

A trigger is any situation, comment, behavior, experience, or event that is difficult to deal with. We all have triggers. Maybe you grew up with a Dad that drank too much, so seeing your brother drinking heavily is a trigger. Or maybe you were in a relationship with someone with a narcissistic personality that would gaslight you. So having your feelings invalidated is majorly triggering. Whatever your triggers may be, it’s important to ditch any shame surrounding them. There is no shame in recognizing your triggers. Recognizing your triggers will help you set boundaries and react more positively in uncomfortable situations.

If one of your triggers is heavy drinking, for example, you can set a boundary to leave earlier on nights when everyone is drinking. Of course, a trigger can happen at any time and be completely unforeseen. You can’t always avoid them. However, if you can identify your triggers, you can hopefully reduce the number of times you’re in an uncomfortable situation.

Be confident in your ability to say no. 

Boundary violations often occur because people are afraid of offending the other person by denying their wants. Saying no can seem daunting, but it’s the best way to put an end to any unhealthy boundaries. If you can’t make that dinner, lunch, holiday, birthday, or special occasion because you have something personal going on, it’s okay to say no. If you have a family member that routinely makes poor decisions and relies on you to pick up the pieces, say no. Be ready to take a breath and say no to anything that is taking a toll on your life, time, goals, emotions, and mental health. Don’t let any family member walk all over you or guilt-trip you for denying their request

Communicate your needs in the relationship.

To maintain healthy boundaries with a family member, it’s necessary to draw clear lines for the kind of behaviors you won’t tolerate. You can’t expect others to respect your time boundaries if they don’t know you have them. For example, if you yearn for more structure in your life, it could mean simply saying “I won’t be able to commit to any last-minute plans moving forward because I’m committed to my schedule.” It could also mean voicing when you’re a person feeling uncomfortable, disrespected, or mistreated. Whatever behaviors, comments, expectations, or interactions you are determined to stop allowing, say it. Loud and clear. Say it intentionally, calmly, and with confidence. 

Be realistic and don’t ask people to change.

You can’t expect everyone to be on a personal growth journey or feel the need to act differently. And people won’t change simply because you say so. All you can do is set boundaries that personally impact you, and lead by example. Although we all wish our 65-year-old mother would suddenly act differently, she might not. So don’t constantly try to put the square peg in a round hole. Don’t set unrealistic standards and expectations that your family members won’t even attempt to meet. Instead, accept your family members for who they are and set your boundaries accordingly.

Voice when your boundaries feel violated.

Accountability is extremely important for maintaining boundaries in relationships. For everyone, including yourself, to take your boundaries seriously, you have to be willing to say when they are violated. The key here is to acknowledge that your boundaries were violated without contributing to a heated moment. Speak your truth honestly, without aggression, and with compassion and kindness in your voice. Don’t attack. Instead, focus on how you felt and what kind of interaction you prefer. This article is a great resource for using I statements in relationships.

Forgive the past, and focus on the future.

To move forward with your new boundaries and maintain a more healthy relationship, you can’t keep living in the past. If you have any unresolved anger or resentment, it’s time to focus on letting that go. Move and evolve into a future more healthy, respectful relationship. This doesn’t mean that you need to forget the past. It just means that you need to let go of any negative, low vibrational feelings towards family members you’re setting new boundaries with. 

Here is an episode of Real Pod that discusses how to heal a strained family dynamic, listen here: Forgiving Your Ex & Healing Strained Family Relationships with Spiritual Guru Sah D’Simone. 

Remember you are the one in control of your life.

You are in charge of maintaining the boundaries you created for your family. You control whether or not a person gets away with repeated boundary violations. It’s your choice to let it pass or take action and insist they have crossed the line.

This episode of Recovering From Reality dives deep into dysfunctional family dynamics and how to recover from them. If you want to learn more about the subject, listen here: And So It Is w/ Andrea Arlington.

Write a list of coping strategies.

Let’s face it, when you start to set boundaries you may hit some bumps in the road. It’s important to practice self-care when dealing with a lack of boundaries, arguments, or family members that don’t agree with enforcing your boundaries. Unresolved family issues can hurt your mental health and risk your other relationships if you can’t cope. A great way to always be ready to deal with a crisis is to write down a list of coping strategies that work best for you. Keep these strategies in mind any time things don’t go as planned and you need help to cope.

A few solid coping strategies are taking a relaxing bath, practicing meditation, going for a walk, listening to calming music, journaling, moving your body, and listening to your favorite podcasts.

Seek out your safety net. 

If you have several people you know you can rely upon, don’t be afraid of letting them know you are struggling. Reach out to your loved ones and ask for their support. The whole point of having a safety net is to be around them and feel safe, so be open with them. Boundary violations put a strain on your mental health, so it’s valid and necessary to feel supported during tough times. 

Allow yourself to do what’s best for you. 

Value yourself and your time. Don’t waste precious moments with those who refuse to set boundaries or don’t appreciate you. You have no obligation to family members, even if you are of the same blood. Healthy relationships come first. Prioritize the people in your life that make you feel your best, and don’t be scared to walk away from dysfunctional dynamics. At the end of the day, it’s your life and you should not struggle your way through it. Ignore the stigma and forge your path. 

What are your favorite strategies to set boundaries with family?

Those were some of our best tactics on how to set and maintain healthy boundaries with a family member or blood connection. It’s important to identify when someone has crossed the line and take action to establish a healthy boundary with them. A lack of boundaries can have a negative long-term impact on your mental health, so it’s necessary to act quickly and protect your closest relationships. Good luck with your family boundaries and remember to take care of yourself! 

What Is Toxic Productivity & How To Keep It in Check

Productivity can be addictive. And there’s a really fine line between efficient and overworked. Toxic productivity is when you have an unhealthy and obsessive desire to be productive at all times and in all areas of your life. Feeling guilty for watching a movie or never allowing yourself a day off are huge red flags! Those behaviors are signs of toxic productivity. And this can take a toll on both your physical and mental health. As well as on your personal relationships. Being overproductive is no way to live!

We know what all of you overly productive hustlers out there are thinking right now. There is seriously nothing more gratifying than checking off the items on your to-do list. Getting that sense of accomplishment. It can actually be high. However, hustle culture and the need to consistently be productive can get out of control. If you’re setting unrealistic expectations of yourself, tying your productivity to your self-worth, or experiencing guilt during your downtime, you might be suffering from toxic productivity and should consider getting it in check.

What Is Toxic Productivity & How To Keep It in Check

Toxic productivity is an unhealthy mindset that you need to be doing something productive at all times. Workaholic can definitely be a term used to describe toxic productivity. In recent years hustle culture has certainly contributed to toxic productivity leading many to burnout and unhappiness. More on toxic hustle culture HERE. However toxic productivity can manifest outside of work. There are many signs of toxic productivity, and the side effects can be serious. Think social isolation, unhappiness, feelings of not being good enough, anxiety, depression, and more ( source ).

Here’s how you can stop toxic productivity and create more balance in your life:

Cut yourself some slack:

Nothing flows when you don’t put yourself first. Avoid getting caught in the toxic cycle of trying to be productive during every minute of your day. Most of the time, you’ll be too tired to work efficiently, anyway! Cut yourself some slack and stop putting so much pressure on your shoulders. Actively tell yourself that you are enough, you’ve done enough, and that not everything needs to be complete at this moment. It’s okay to push things off, it’s okay to take a breath. Remind yourself that life isn’t just about what you do, it’s about what you experience and feel. If you need more tips for how to cut yourself some slack, this episode of Real Pod has a ton of info about how to stop being hard on yourself, redefine success, and be an overachiever.

Commit to regular downtime.

The intention is everything. So make a commitment to give yourself some time away from being productive. It might feel uncomfortable at first and you might feel the urge to be productive in your downtime. For serious cases of toxic productivity, some radical self-improvement may be required. However, if you set the intention to allow yourself downtime, you’ll have success over time.

Adjust your goals and expectations:

Let’s face it, we all struggle with unrealistic expectations. Whether it’s thanks to social media, what our family expects from us, or our own self-inflicted expectations. Setting the bar too high can be a good thing if you’re not too hard on yourself when you don’t reach those goals. However, it can also be a bad thing if you’re constantly trying to live up to some ridiculous standard. So take an honest look at your goals, and make adjustments if they’re set so high that realistically you’re setting yourself up to let yourself down. It’s also important to set goals that are related to your happiness and wellness. Take time to ask yourself the tough questions and find your own definition of success.

Listen to this episode of Because Life where Sydel and her guest discuss how to overcome feeling unproductive and not good enough. A little advice can go a long way! Here it is: I Am Deserving.

Take breaks:

No matter how productive you are during working hours, you still need to take breaks. Your performance and mental health suffer when you’re overworked. Taking short breaks on a regular basis reboots your brain and gets you ready to tackle the next task. Setting time aside for breaks requires time management and intention. You can schedule your breaks, use an app or time block tool, or stick to a routine that works for you, Also keep in mind that breaks are not only important during the work day. Take the weekend, go on a vacation, and enjoy a dinner with no distractions. It’s incredibly important that you find time to mentally check out productivity and just enjoy some downtime.

Start meditating:

One of the most obvious signs of toxic productivity is being mentally preoccupied with work. So training your brain to focus on something other than work is a great practice for anyone suffering from toxic productivity. Meditation is a powerful tool and practice to soothe and clear the mind. If you find yourself constantly restless or thinking about being productive, take a break and meditate. It doesn’t have to be an hour-long meditation. Just 10 minutes can do the trick. You’ll be amazed at the power of deep breaths and ignoring all intrusive thoughts!

Stop comparing yourself to others:

It’s your life, and it’s your journey. What other people are doing is irrelevant. So keep blinders on and focus on yourself and what makes you happy. When you compare yourself to others whom you perceive as doing more than you, you’re feeding the need to do more. So don’t compare yourself to other people in your family, at work, and in your social circles. Especially avoid comparing yourself to others on social media. You’ll never feel productive enough if you compare yourself to a curated feed on Instagram. Remember that everyone has their own path, struggles, successes, and failures. So it’s impossible to hold yourself to standards based on their journey instead of your own.

If you’re struggling with comparing yourself to others, this episode of ILYSM is a must-listen: Not Feeling Like You’re Doing Enough, Comparing Yourself, The Secrets to Tik Tok & Work Guilt.

Make self-care a daily habit:

Self-care is crucial when it comes to putting an end to toxic productivity. I mean let’s be real, one of the first signs you’re overworked are those dreaded eye bags. Your skin, fitness, hydration, and sleep can all suffer when you’re stuck in a cycle of being toxically productive. So make self-care a habit. Dedicate time to a wellness, fitness, food, or beauty routine. Schedule a regular spa session. A self-care habit can even include journaling, exercise, meditation, yoga, reading, breathwork, baking, and pretty much anything that makes you feel your best. Self-care is all about you, after all!

Kick off your self-care habits with this episode of With Whit: Liz Vaccariello And I Discuss The Highly Sought After Work-Life Balance And The Crucial Role Of Self Care.

Establish boundaries between your work life and personal time:

You’ll need a few guidelines for your ideal work-life balance. These are totally personal and based on what you believe you need in order to avoid toxic productivity. Maybe this means you do not work more than 40 hours per week. Or maybe you set the simple rule of not checking emails after 8 pm. Whatever your boundaries are, get clear and help yourself stay within them. Boundaries with yourself are crucial! For more on boundaries, see this post on setting boundaries with family.

Get at least 8 hours of sleep:

Listen, you won’t be productive at all if you don’t actually take time to rest. That’s just a fact! And one of the first signs of toxic productivity is that sleep isn’t made one of your priorities. So to get out of the toxic relationship you have with being productive, sleep is essential. The National Sleep Foundation advises that healthy adults need between 7 and 9 hours of sleep per night. Any less than that for a continued amount of time and your mental health and productivity will both be affected. So don’t let your work day mess with your sleep. It’s not worth it in the long run. Aim for the good old 8 hours a night and you’ll see what a difference it makes!

Are you curious about the science of sleep? On this episode of The Gabby Reece Show, they talk about all things related to sleep schedules, sleep avatars, sleep hacks, & everything you need to know about sleep with Dr. Michael Breus.

Hold yourself accountable:

This is the only way to ensure you will keep toxic productivity in check. Hold yourself accountable for your habits and keep track of them. Did you get enough sleep last night? Did you eat breakfast this morning? Have you meditated yet? Make a self-care to-do list and motivate yourself to put your well-being first.

Learn more about self-accountability in this episode of Recovering From Reality where Alexis joins Kat Von D to discuss the topic: Ep. 104 Self-Accountability and Sobriety with Kat Von D

Spend quality time with your loved ones:

Social isolation and putting important relationships on the back burner is definitely an indicator that you’re toxically productive. This especially can be an issue if you work remotely. Plus, having a safety net can make all the difference when struggling with toxic productivity. Check in with your personal relationships. Spending time, quality time, with friends and family and unplugging from your work life and social media. Be present and at the moment when you are with someone you care about. Sharing your free time with others will help you resist the temptation to go back to work.

The Dangerous Trap Of Toxic Productivity

Toxic productivity is a dangerous trap that many fall into, especially in our fast-paced modern society. The problem is, this kind of productivity can have serious consequences on our health and well-being. Burnout, stress, anxiety, and physical health issues are just a few of the negative side effects that come with pushing ourselves too hard. So, if you find yourself caught up in the toxic productivity trap, take a step back and remember to set realistic goals, take breaks, and prioritize self-care.

What are your tips for avoiding toxic productivity?

So that is our guide on how to deal with toxic productivity. Hustle culture might sound fun and motivating, but your mental health comes first. Always give yourself time to relax and recharge! Are you suffering from toxic productivity? Let us know your favorite ways to break the cycle of toxic productivity. We love reading your comments! Stay healthy, everyone!

30 Time Management Tips For Work Life Balance

Today’s work life and hustle culture has us all scrambling for the best ways to manage our time. We all want to fit it all in. But let’s be real, there are only 24 hours in the day. All of us want to crush it at work, spend time with the people we love, and maybe even get a workout or two in. When our schedules are pushed to the max, we may end up compromising the things that are important to us. There is a lot of pressure to take that after-hours conference call and skip family dinner. Or even skip your workout so you can get a late-night work session in. This type of leniency can take a toll on your physical and mental health. Living a fast-paced life with a poor work-life balance promotes overstimulation and eventually leads to disruption in your personal life.

Sometimes it can even feel impossible to be the perfect employee or entrepreneur without compromising your personal time. But, understanding how time management works actually helps you become a better worker even if that means having stricter availability and declining last-minute projects. When you learn to take control of your time you work smarter, not harder. You make room to think clearer and creatively, so you don’t risk procrastination. You’re also not rushing to make frantic decisions. And finally, when you protect your time you’ll end up getting more done and be much more fulfilled overall in life.

 

30 Time Management Tips For Work-Life Balance

Since we all struggle with juggling our work and personal lives, today’s post is all about dealing with poor time management effectively. We are sharing 30 of our favorite tried and tested time management tips for how you can achieve a healthy work-life balance. These are small actions you can start right away to be more productive at work and enjoy your personal time to its fullest. Give them a try!

1. Set your daily schedule in advance.

There’s nothing more deterring than approaching your day without a clue about where to start. Having no clear direction will cause you to feel overwhelmed. Right before your work day ends, take the time each night to write a to-do list for the following day. Prioritize your to-do list with important tasks, meetings, and key deadlines. This will help you feel confident about what to tackle first!

2. Know yourself and your productive hours.

We can’t all be early-morning birds! Everyone has a certain time of the day in which they are the most productive at work; those are your peak hours. Self-assess and schedule your work hours according to the time when you work best. If you can’t pick your work hours, apply this tip to your passion project or favorite hobby!

3. Cut off all distractions during work hours.

If you want to be more productive at work, staying focused will be crucial. You won’t be able to work efficiently if your phone buzzes with social media notifications every five minutes. Mute all notifications and prepare a distraction-free zone. You’d be surprised how much you can get done without your phone causing you interruptions.

4. Start with the tasks that have deadlines.

I know, we’ve all avoided that one dreaded task until we had no choice but to take care of it. But procrastinating on it will not help with your work-life balance. Knowing you have to get it done eventually will only cause you to worry and stress during your off hours until it’s complete. So if you have a task that has a deadline, it’s probably best to knock it out first!

5. Learn to delegate when necessary.

Sometimes, we might take on more than we can really handle. This is especially true if you are in a management position at work or you run your own business. But delegating will keep you away from unhealthy emotional and physical stress! If you don’t want to work during your personal time, trust someone else with a few tasks. This will also allow you to focus on other parts of the job or company that probably require your attention too!

6. Take regular breaks.

You don’t want to exhaust yourself during work hours and end up too tired to enjoy the rest of the day. Regular 5 to 15-minute breaks can reboot your brain and boost your productivity. There’s a reason the Pomodoro technique is so popular: taking breaks helps with time management. Breaks also help to keep the creative juices flowing and keep your energy from being stagnant! Choose your preferred interval and give it a try!

7. Use an app or project management tool to help manage your time.

Tools like Asana or Trello can help you organize all your important tasks and to-do lists in one centralized place. You can manage both your work and personal time there, too. It’s practical and you have it with you at all times! This will help to ensure you stay focused on what’s important and not waste any time on things that are not on your daily schedule!

8. Plan each week in advance.

It’s always a good idea to know what comes next, both with work and personal matters. Setting aside a bit of time each week to plan the next one will help you organize your time better. This way, you can improve your work-life balance without having to rush to complete any important tasks. Planning your week ahead of time is, of course, great for conference calls, meetings, and work projects. However, it’s even more crucial for planning your self-care routines like fitness, facials, and massages. As well as scheduling social time with family and friends, and even free time for yourself.

9. Set realistic deadlines.

Don’t commit to deadlines you know you won’t be able to see through. This will only make you come across as unreliable with your team members and coworkers. Plus you will be overwhelmed and overworked. It’s a pretty poor combination, right? Set realistic deadlines and commit to them.

10. Avoid multitasking with tasks that require your full attention.

Even though multitasking seems like a great idea to get a lot done, it actually means some of the tasks at hand are not getting 100% of your attention or effort. When you multitask you are causing your brain to overwork itself. This is a recipe for burnout and human error. Switching between tasks causes mental blocks that can actually slow you down! So for example, if you’re working on emails just focus on your inbox. Don’t try to switch between emails and any other tasks.

11. Choose when to multitask wisely.

Not all multitasking is bad. For example, sometimes its great to do something physical like going for a walk while you do something else that doesn’t require your legs or a ton of mental space. For example, maybe you go for a walk outside while you catch up with a friend over the phone. Or walk on the treadmill while you listen to your favorite podcast. You can even listen to your favorite podcast while in the shower or doing a beauty routine. This type of multitasking helps you accomplish multiple things that bring you joy and add value to your life.

12. Say no to what doesn’t serve you or your goals.

Being a people pleaser never made anyone achieve their dreams or achieve a healthy work-life balance. If you can’t commit to that extra assignment, say no. If you need a Friday night to work on your passion project, say no to that happy hour outing. Any task that doesn’t feel right or makes you feel like you’re putting something you really want to do on the back end, say no! When you put yourself first you will find yourself with a surprising amount of extra time. If you have a hard time saying no, read this post on how to set boundaries for more inspiration.

13. Stay committed to your plan of action.

If you had a plan for your day, don’t get discouraged by complications or nuances that may come up. Stick to the schedule you have mapped out for yourself! You will avoid overworking yourself in order to compensate for that time gap.

14. Automate as much as you can.

Sometimes the smallest of errands can put you behind schedule and mess up your entire work-life balance. To allow yourself time to focus on things with greater value, try to automate things you don’t necessarily need to take time out of your day to handle. For example, you can put your bills on auto-pay or have frequently used items like groceries and toiletries delivered straight to your house. Automatization can save you loads of time in the long run.

15. Don’t wait for inspiration to strike.

Effective time management is a skill that gives you the power to always be prepared and stay proactive. It prevents you from forcing inspiration or waiting for it to strike. If you are creative and you only work when inspiration strikes, then schedule dedicated time to think creatively. Schedule a block of time on the calendar to brainstorm. Delaying tasks because you lack inspiration creates a higher chance you won’t get it done at all, or anytime soon. Those tasks or projects will not finish themselves! Each time you put forth effort towards your task, you’re chipping away at it! Always show up for yourself, even on days you feel sluggish!

16. Get enough sleep.

Coffee can’t always be the magic cure for it all. Getting enough sleep will help you stay energized during the day and be more productive at work. You’ll be in a better mood too!

17. Have a morning and evening routine.

Creating a morning and evening routine is key to better time management skills. Knowing exactly what to do in the morning helps set the productivity tone for the entire day. It allows you to be present in little ways you may not think are important too. Like enjoying a cup of coffee, reading the newspaper, getting a workout in or taking a morning jog. If you don’t have a morning routine you may feel rushed to even make a cup of coffee to go!

The same goes for an evening ritual. Meditation, bedtime reading, or journaling are other great ways to connect with your evening. Spending quality time with yourself during the first and last minutes of the day allows you to reaffirm your daily goals and reflect on your actions!

18. Listen to a podcast when commuting to or leaving work.

Podcasts are great because they keep you company on your daily commute to and from work. Listening to your favorite show can change or improve your mood and get you motivated to begin your work day too! Most importantly though, finding time to work on yourself and learn new things can be really hard when you work full time and have a life. So finding time to learn something or gain inspiration without having to set aside special time for it is key. At Dear Media, there are a ton of podcasts to choose from. From business to personal development and spirituality or wellness to beauty, we got you covered!

19. Keep your workspace tidy.

A cluttered space reflects a cluttered mind. Having a tidy workspace boosts productivity because it’s challenging to work in a messy environment. Plus, messy doesn’t attract inspiration! You’ll feel more energized if your work area is clean and organized. When it comes to time management, doing everything you can to make yourself your most productive adds up.

20. Start time-blocking your day.

Setting up time blocks for everything you do might not sound like much fun, I know. But it works wonders for effective time management! Use time blocks for scheduling work hours, important tasks, errands, and even downtime. It’s important to set strict time limits on how much of your time you’re going to spend on any tasks in order to achieve a work-life balance.

21. Do similar tasks on the same time block.

This one further emphasizes our earlier tip to avoid multitasking. When you’re doing similar tasks, you’re able to get in a flow. So for example if you have to respond to 20 emails in one day, don’t answer them randomly throughout the day or create different time blocks for each email. Instead sit down and do the 20 emails in the same block. You’ll get in the flow and start answering them much faster! Otherwise, you are just doing too many things at once and you might get distracted easily.

22. Have your calendar keep you on track throughout the day.

It’s always good to know you are staying on schedule. However checking your calendar regularly during work hours to make sure everything is going according to plan decreases your productivity and takes you away from your important tasks. Instead, set up your calendar to send you notifications throughout the day when you need to end or start a new task. You can set up your notifications to remind you how much time you have left for a task, what tasks are coming up next, and even include the details of tasks in your calendar notes.

23. Set aside time for stress reduction activities.

Life is more than just work, productivity goals, and hustling. You need time to recharge to give the day your all! Scheduling relaxing activities will help you make self-care a priority. Activities like yoga, a drawing lesson, or meditation are all great ways to boost productivity.

For more info on this, The Femails has an episode specifically on How to Decrease Overwhelm & Increase Creativity.

24. Have backup tasks.

There will always be downtime during work hours. A great way to take advantage of downtime and shorten your to-do list is to tackle any mundane tasks you have on your plate. Answer emails, check your voicemail, and return client calls. These little tasks don’t require a lot of brain power, but they add up and can overwhelm you if there are too many that pop up last minute. Check them off your list and get them out of the way!

25. Move forward if you get stuck.

Some days we really aren’t in the mood for a specific task and we get stuck. If you’ve been working on the same thing for hours with no end in sight, skip ahead. Just do the next item in your to-do list and come back to what you’re struggling with later.

26. Meal prep.

Meal-prepping is a lifesaver during work hours! The last thing you need in the middle of a work day is to worry about lunch. It’s better to plan your meals ahead of time and have them ready to eat. Then just heat them up and enjoy. You’ve just saved yourself some precious time and money!

27. Make the most of your errands run.

Don’t go to the bank today and leave grocery shopping for tomorrow – unless it’s 100% necessary. Plan your errands in advance and take the time to do all of them at once. It will save you both time and gas.

28. Minimize your screen time.

Social media has that magic time-sucking quality, you know it. It’s suddenly 10 p.m., and you spent an hour on Instagram instead of sleeping. Mindless scrolling is the nemesis of effective time management. So try to avoid it by avoiding all electronics one hour before bedtime. You can also seriously try to avoid scrolling throughout the day in general.

29. Identify the top 5 priorities of each day.

It’s easy to get caught up with work or a to-do list and focus on the things you have to do and might want to do. So making to-do lists for things you have and want to do are great, but you should also always highlight your top 5 priorities for the day in general. Get up every morning and review your day, find the 5 priorities, and make sure you find and schedule time for them.

30. Tune in with your values and goals.

Pay attention to what you are spending time on. Is it your dream promotion? Your business? Perhaps you don’t even like your current job but lack the drive to do something about it. Ask yourself tough questions and be candid with yourself. Being honest with yourself will get you where you want to be in life. Effective time management won’t serve you if you are working towards something you don’t feel passionate about. Be in touch with your dreams and show up for yourself with the end goal in mind!

Learn more about building a business you are passionate about on this episode of With Whit: Staying Home With Whit | AmyAnn Cadwell On Building A Business Based On Your Passion

What is your best tip for effective time management?

Those were our 30 favorite time management tips for achieving work-life balance! Remember that separating your work hours from your personal life will save you from a lot of stress and constant tiredness. Trust us, your mental health will thank you for putting in the work!

One last thing before you go! Perhaps you prefer to listen to your way to a brand new time management skills. And we have the perfect episode To kick off your commitment to a healthier work-life balance with the following episode of The Skinny Confidential Him & Her Podcast. Enjoy! Secrets To Personal Growth Time Management, & Productivity With Serial Entrepreneur David Meltzer.

The Best Podcasts For Female Entrepreneurs

Female-owned businesses are growing at a steady rate. In the last 20 years, the number of businesses owned by female entrepreneurs in the US has increased by 114%. Today, women entrepreneurs own 4 out of 10 businesses in the country. BOOM! That’s what I’m talking about ladies. Get it! This is amazing news! Especially because female entrepreneurs face unique challenges in the big bad world of business. So they should be celebrated for going above and beyond to achieve their lady boss status. 

Because it’s tricky to grow your own successful business, mentorship becomes a key advantage for female entrepreneurs. Having a mentor can help you improve yourself and your business strategy. However, not all mentorship has to be through personal interactions. Podcasts are the bridge between those who have something valuable to say and those eager to learn. Because when you listen to the experiences and lessons of a successful female entrepreneur, you get actionable tips and a better sense of direction. Podcasters like Abagail and Emylee on Strategy Hour, or Jenna Kutcher on The Goal Digger Podcast sharing their business journies are more than just side-hustle stories. They’re case studies for triumph. And we all want in on it.

So today’s post is all about entrepreneurship and the best podcasts for female entrepreneurs. You’ll find a roundup of the shows starring women who became prominent business leaders down below!

The Best Podcasts For Female Entrepreneurs

Share of Voice with Karin Eldor:

This show is all about discovering your voice and speaking your truth! Karin Eldor is your host. And as a journalist, she has a passion for sharing powerful voices and the way they express themselves. On Share of Voice Karin hosts conversations with game-changers, entrepreneurs, and creatives. You’ll find more than one successful female entrepreneur telling her story here! The guests are always ready to inspire the audience to be bold, get engaged, and follow their passions. In addition, this show will ignite that enterprising flame in you to express yourself unapologetically.

Kick off your listening experience of Share of Voice with this amazing episode about a female entrepreneur shaking the lingerie industry: How Lively Is Disrupting The $13B Lingerie Industry, With Founder Michelle Cordeiro Grant.

Work Party with Jaclyn Johnson

I mean, the title of this podcast says it all. This podcast is all about all things related to work. It’s the place where women come together to share their work experiences and celebrate each other’s success. Expect tons of practical tips for guiding you on your journey to creating an epic career and business. You’ll also hear from serious industry experts on topics like the importance of your reputation in business, how to scale your business, how to break boundaries and reach new heights for your products, and so much more.

Browse the latest episodes of Work Party HERE.

Life With Me with Marianna Hewitt:

Marianna is a successful influencer on social media, a long-time blogger, and a successful female entrepreneur. She co-founded the iconic clean beauty brand, Summer Fridays. And hosts her podcast Life With Me. Her show features a new guest every week, typically someone in her network of influencers, entrepreneurs, and inspiring personalities. Each episode sheds light on an impressive story. You can also learn about topics like influencer marketing, and how to create Instagram content. Or the secret to diversifying your income through side hustling. Her goal is to inspire listeners to be the best version of themselves. Her genuine approach to connecting with her followers is the reason people keep coming back for more! 

Tune in to this episode of Life With Me where Marianna sits down for a chat with the founder of the quintessential beauty blender. Ever wonder how it became such an iconic product? Find out here: How the Beautyblender Became an Iconic Product with Founder Rea Ann Silva. 

Raising the Bar with Alli and Adrian:

Raising The Bar is a must-listen for any female hustler. Hosted by entrepreneurs, this podcast features everything you need to know to start your own successful business.  Think actionable tips, business strategies, and all the tricky stuff you wish business owners talked about. It’s all here for you. Alli and Adrian defined the show itself as a study of perseverance. So expect the messiest of details surrounding being a leader and a go-getter. The pair invites a new guest each week to tackle the secrets to success in entrepreneurship. 

Kick off your unfiltered entrepreneurial advice experience with this episode of Raising The Bar: Why Alli Put a Ring on Boutique Jewelry Brand, Becket + Quill | with Meredith Quill.

Him and Her with Lauryn & Michael Bosstick

This duo knows a thing or two about business. Lauryn is a successful blogger, published author, podcast host, and founder of her anti-inflammatory beauty line. Her husband Michael is a serial entrepreneur that has had his hand in many different businesses, podcast host, and of course co-founder of Dear Media. On their show, they interview the best of the best when it comes to entrepreneurship. You’ll also hear stories of founding companies, failure, massive success, and everything in between. This one is a must-listen if you’re looking for entrepreneurship and work-life advice.

For entrepreneurs we recommend this episode to kick things off: Emma Grede – Founder & Partner Of Good American, Skims, & Safely On How To Build A Career Of Your Dreams, Network, Hustle, Communicate, & Get It All Done In Style

Friend of a Friend with Olivia Perez:

This podcast will introduce you to the next generation of game-changers! Your host, Olivia Perez, is a co-founder of a fantastic community and is determined to share the best success stories with her audience. Expect inspirational talks, a new exciting guest every week, and a personal listening environment – just as if you were talking to a friend of a friend. The guests also share their social media marketing strategies, the secrets to having a side hustle, and how they got to the top of their industries. You can’t miss it as a female entrepreneur!

Get in the entrepreneurial flow with this episode of Friend of a Friend, where Olivia and her guest talk all about finding your unique creative voice: Finding Your Creative Voice with Streetwear Designer Melody Ehsani.

Everything Is The Best with Pia Baroncini:

In need of a push to follow your dreams? Everything Is The Best is the type of show that will inspire you to chase your goals and never look back. Host Pia Baroncini is an incredible example of what it takes to become a successful female entrepreneur as the founder of the clothing label LPA. In each episode, Pia sits down for a conversation with guests from all backgrounds. She dives deep into what makes them tick and has them share how they’ve been able to thrive in their field and which actionable tips they took to get there. So be prepared to get inspired and take a little homework with you!

This episode is a must-listen. It discusses how to turn a pandemic project into a successful business. I know we could all use some clarity on this topic, so enjoy!

Being Bumo with Chriselle Lim:

If you’re a female entrepreneur who is also a mother or planning to become one, Being Bumo will become your new go-to. Your podcast host is Chriselle, the ultimate mom, successful business owner, and creative. She will make navigating the world of parenthood while working much easier. This podcast also features expert professionals, inspirational leaders, and celebrities to talk about parenting and professional life. Plus you’ll realize you’re not alone on your parenting journey. Many of the episodes will probably reaffirm the exact challenges and struggles working moms go through on a regular. This show makes you feel connected and empowered as a working mom.

This episode discusses the challenges that working parents faced during the pandemic: Rebecca Minkoff on the Realities of Being a Working Parent In a Pandemic.

The Dissenters with Debra Messing and Mandana Dayani:

Get ready to challenge the status quo with this disruptive show! The Dissenters is all about those who break the norm, and who speak out and make a difference. Debra and Mandana highlight their biggest heroes each week. The pair share their stories and discuss the critical aspects of their success as dissenters. From Hillary Clinton to Eva Longoria, you’ll always be inspired while listening to an episode of this show!

Food Heaven Made Easy with Wendy and Jess:

Calling all foodies here! Being a female entrepreneur comes with a few distinct challenges. And living a healthier life while creating a business is one of them. Food Heaven Made Easy is the show to listen to for practical advice on how to become more balanced. Wendy and Jess team up with a new expert guest each week. They discuss how to take better care of yourself and tackle topics from a different angle during every episode. Welcome to your new wellness and entrepreneurship hub! No gimmicks or quick diet fads here, just pure education-based information to inspire you to live your best, healthiest life!

In this episode, Wendy and Jess share all the business advice that is crucial for entrepreneurs: Business Advice We Wish We Got w/ Blavity CEO Morgan DeBaun.

Lipstick on the Rim with Molly Sims:

Molly and her best friend Emese catch you up on everything related to the beauty and wellness world. Their podcast features the latest beauty trends and wellness advice. And the success stories of some of the most influential people in the industry. It’s a two-for-one kind of deal! You get the best of both worlds each week as the girls join a celebrity or industry expert guest.

If you are in the mood to learn about the power of friendships in business, give this episode a listen: Black Beauty Founder, Nyakio Talks The Power of Female Friendships and Clean Beauty.

Say Yas to the Guest with Patrick Starrr:

Get the scoop on the latest details of the beauty industry with Say Yas To The Guest! Join Patrick each week as he chats with a new guest. They range from top beauty CEOs to up-and-coming makeup influencers. Every guest brings their unique perspective on the beauty industry and their secrets to achieving success in this cutthroat field. You will laugh and have fun getting inspired by their stories!

Tune in to Say Yas To The Guest with this episode featuring Jen Atkin.

What is your favorite podcast for female entrepreneurs?

You’ll find yourself incredibly inspired after listening to these energizing podcasts! All these shows have amazing stories about successful female entrepreneurs and the challenges that come with building your own business.

Other great podcasts to look for are Second Life with the founder of Girlboss Radio, Sophia Amoruso, and Being Boss with Emily Thompson and Kathleen Shannon. All of their voices are raw and their struggles are real. So get ready to take the lead and get inspired!

Who will you listen to first?

 

How To Name A Podcast

Every epic podcast should have an eye-catching, memorable name. It’s no question that choosing a clever way to identify your podcast is a big deal. It’s the first thing a potential listener will notice when browsing through show titles to see what sparks their interest. A show-stopping podcast name gives you a greater chance to reel them in.

A great podcast name can showcase who you are, and what your show is about, and hopefully capture your target audience. The name sets the direction of your podcast and gives your audience an idea of what they can expect from the show. It can be creative, unique, cheeky, straight to the point, or packed full of personality. If you are still debating what you should name your podcast, no worries! This post will guide you through picking a catchy podcast name that will stand out in all the podcast directories out there. So let’s dive right in shall we?

How To Name A Podcast

Start With Brainstorming

You can never go wrong with a good brainstorming session. However, it’s important that you already have your podcast’s theme, episode format, brand, and defined target audience. Only then can you start coming up with potential names for the show. Give the brainstorming of podcast name ideas a few different attempts on different days. It’s really great to sleep on your brainstorming sessions to see how you feel after some rest. You can schedule daily brainstorming sessions to dedicate real time to thinking creatively or just write down every idea that comes to mind. A fun way to help you out when you are feeling stuck is to bust out the dictionary, thesaurus, or even a fun site like Rhymezone or a podcast name-generator website. Just do your best to get all your ideas out on the table, no matter how you feel about them.

Don’t Stress

Choosing a name for your podcast can feel like a lot of pressure. It’s a big moment, but it’s also an exciting moment. So enjoy it! You’ll love looking back one day and reflecting on how you came up with the name. Also, keep in mind, stress puts a serious damper on creativity. So kick back, have some fun with it, and let the creativity flow. Heck, even pour yourself a glass of wine if you need to during brainstorming sessions.

Make It Both Descriptive and Unique

The goal is for your podcast title to tell your potential listener what your show is about. But it should also reflect your unique flare! A fantastic name does both. Think about your podcast theme and what words would best represent it. Also, take into account the speaking style of your target audience and what words resonate best with that demographic. Finally, add a little of your personality to it. You are the podcast host after all. It should be fun and introductory. A great example of this tip is Raising Good Humans with Dr. Aliza. You can pretty much guess from the title that this podcast is going to be packed full of parenting tips. 

Consider Incorporating Your Brand Name

Maybe you already have a successful personal or business brand with an active following. You’re getting into the podcasting game as an addition to your already thriving brand presence. So to attract potential listeners to your podcast, you can include the name of your brand in the title. Those who already know your brand might feel more attracted to your podcast if the title includes your brand name too. It’s a simple matter of familiarity. Plus, it helps you keep things consistent within your brand messaging. You can learn more about branding HERE.

Chriselle Lim went this route with her parenting podcast Being Bumo. Bumo is the name of her parenting community and brand. In a word, it means to parent. This makes the name of her podcast “being parent”, which incorporates both her existing brand name and explains what the show is all about. You can also take the name of your brand and add something to it. For example, when Lauryn Bosstick of The Skinny Confidential started a podcast with her husband Michael, they chose to incorporate both her brand and a unique identity for the show. The show ended up being dubbed The Skinny Confidential Him & Her.

Think About Using Word Play

Incorporating a play on words into your podcast title can help make it more catchy. Alliterations, puns, slang phrases, and metaphors make a statement. This can help your show stand out from the crowd in the podcast directories. It’s a fun way to catch the attention of your potential listeners too! Just be careful not to make it too ambiguous or abstract or you risk confusing your existing following. 

Let’s take Jackie Schimmel’s podcast, Mind Body No Soul, as an example. The phrase Mind Body Soul is super common in the wellness world. Jackie puts a spin on it by switching it to No Soul. This reflects both the theme of her podcast, guided meditations, and its tone, which is very satirical of your typical mindfulness content. It’s an intriguing yet practical name. It’s also incredibly easy to remember because we’ve all heard the saying similarly many times.

Remember Title Length Matters

Use short and sweet as a rule of thumb. The shorter the podcast title, the easier it will be to remember. Shorter names will also display better on all podcast directories since most people will stream them from their smartphones. So try to keep the title length between 14 and 29 characters! 

Analyze Its Searchability

The searchability of a podcast refers to its SEO value on search engines for potential listeners. It also involves the searches people make on podcast directories and the suggestions that may appear on their feeds. Search engines consider your podcast’s title and description when analyzing whether it is related to a potential listener’s search. Consider including a keyword or two in your podcast title to improve its SEO.

For example, a good podcast like Work Party by Jaclyn Johnson is all about millennial women and their new approach to work. It’s considered a celebration of the modern working woman and all her trials, tribulations, etc. So including the word “Work” is super strategic from an SEO standpoint. Another great example is The Heal Podcast with Kelly Noonan Gores. This podcast is actually a continuation of the HEAL documentary and book. So again including the word “Heal” in the podcast title makes a lot of sense for search.

Include Keywords But Avoid Keyword Stuffing

Look, we all love SEO. But let’s not go overboard with keywords on a podcast title. It’s super obvious and can come across as inauthentic. And people need to see their favorite podcast host as someone genuine, not as a search engine pleaser. Apple Podcasts has also stated that it will remove all podcast names which are just a long list of keywords from its podcast directory. That’s a clear warning that keyword stuffing is not okay for your podcast title. This goes for both your overall show name and individual episode titles. Always keep things genuine.  

Try Saying It Out Loud

Podcasts usually travel by word of mouth. No surprise there right? So your podcast title has to sound great! You will consistently repeat the name of your podcast in every intro for each episode, anytime you promote your show, and anytime you talk about your brand in general. Further cementing the need for the name of your podcast to flow. The name should be easy to pronounce and each word should flow effortlessly. Say all the potential names over and over for a good while. By the end, you will probably discard a couple of names you thought were potentials. 

Pitch It To A Sample Of Your Target Audience

This is perfect if you already have an existing following. You can ask for a few volunteers and pitch them a couple of your favorite podcast titles. However, seeking opinions of people outside of your typical community can also provide you with great insight too! This may even spark up some new creativity and refresh some existing ideas. So don’t be afraid to ask people that aren’t already followers or are heavily involved in the space. Sometimes fresh eyes and ears can really inspire!

Check Podcast Name Availability

Before you choose a podcast title, make sure to check if it’s available. It would be truly disheartening to get set on a name, maybe even a design for your show’s cover art, only to realize the name is taken. Plus if you plan on monetizing your podcast, you’ll need to avoid any copyright and trademark issues. Always do your research beforehand. Once you know the final contenders for the podcast name, search to see if it’s already in use. It’s also a good idea to see if the name is taken on social media sites such as Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. Giving your podcast its own Instagram or Twitter makes it a great way to send out announcements like upcoming episode info, a recap of the shows, and snippets of previous shows.

How To Trademark A Podcast Name?

Trademarking a podcast name is a great way to make sure that you get the credit you deserve for your hard work. If you’re thinking about registering your trademark podcast name, here’s what you need to know.

Trademark registration can be done through the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). You’ll need to fill out an application with your podcast name and other identifying information. Once you’ve filed this application, it will be reviewed by an examiner at the USPTO who will determine whether or not your podcast name is eligible for trademark protection. If the examiner determines that it is eligible, then he or she will issue a certificate of registration for your podcast name, and your podcast will be considered your own intellectual property by law.

Are you ready to get creative and choose a podcast name?

There you go, future podcasters! Now you have the insider’s scoop on how to name a podcast. These tips will help you pick a podcast title that is unique, memorable, and authentic. If you have any other questions about starting a podcast, what kind of podcast apps to use, or how to name your podcast properly, let us know in the comments. We are happy to help! You can also head over to this article to get the best list of everything you need to start a podcast. Best of luck picking your podcast name! 

One more thing! If you want to learn more about starting a podcast from one of our very own Dear Media podcasters, you are in luck. Kick off your podcast creation with the following episode of Friend of a Friend with Olivia Perez: Want To Start A Podcast? Olivia Gives Her Best Career Advice.

Everything You Need To Launch Your Podcast

Launching a podcast is both an exciting and daunting process! It’s a key milestone as it marks the beginning of your podcasting journey. So it’s crucial to do it right. Even though it’s a complex endeavor, you can rock the launch of your podcast if you follow the correct strategies. It’s all about making a good impression with your target audience and hooking potential listeners with those first few episodes. The idea is to get them to subscribe and share your show with their family and friends!

When you start a podcast, the launch can be forgotten as you get caught up in all the details of the show’s content. But a killer launch is necessary to be a successful podcaster. So today we are sharing everything you need to launch your podcast! These tips will guide you step by step in the process of launching your show. 

We’ll help make sure your show notes are perfect, your intros are engaging, and your descriptions are clear. We’ll also help make sure that each episode is properly categorized in iTunes so that anyone who’s looking for a podcast will be able to find yours. 

Find the best launch strategies down below!

Everything You Need To Launch Your Podcast

Podcasts are a great way to get your voice heard, and they can be really fun to make. But if you’re new to the game, getting started can feel a little daunting. There’s so much to think about!

Your podcast is going to be amazing, and you’re going to want to shout it from the rooftops! But before you get too excited, there’s a lot of prep work that goes into launching a podcast.

So, aside from the necessary podcasting equipment, what does it take to launch your podcast?

Set A Launch Date And Stick To It:

When you create a podcast, you probably have a loose launch date in mind. Well, think about that launch date ahead of time to stay on top of the situation. It’s best to have a set day before you even start recording the first couple of episodes. This will help you to organize a marketing campaign and have a to-do list ready. Make sure you pick the same day of the week that you plan on releasing a new episode each week. It will show potential listeners you’re consistent and committed to the show.

Best Day To Release Podcast:

The best day to launch a podcast depends on what kind of show you’re looking to create. If you want to create an informational podcast with educational content that people will listen to while they drive or during commutes, then Monday might be the best day because it’s the start of the week and people have time after work where they can listen without distractions (or kids). If your podcast is more entertainment-based or informational but doesn’t require as much attention from listeners (like news), then Friday might be better because people are more relaxed by then and may want some entertainment during their commute home from work.

Setting a publishing schedule: 

You should choose a set day every week, so listeners know what to expect. And if you are releasing 2 or 3 episodes each week, then posting on irregular intervals is also possible. If you’re unsure what publishing schedule would work best for you, ask yourself: “How often do I want my listeners to be able to expect new content?” The answer will determine how frequently you should post episodes.

Have The First Set Of Episodes Lined Up:

This is a no-brainer, but you should record and edit a few podcast episodes before the launch date. It’s important to be sure the audio quality of these files are high. Plus you’ll want to make sure the episodes are not only recorded but also edited. It’s better to be prepared than to record half an hour of content and have no clue what to do with it! Lastly, make sure you create an engaging podcast description! Then… once you have the first set of episodes ready to go, you can continue with the other launch preparations. But never launch a show without at least three to five episodes ready!

Think about the length of each episode:

This depends on how long it takes for you to get through all your material—but keep in mind that if the episode length is too short, people may not feel like they got their money’s worth out of it (and if it’s too long, they might not finish listening). Generally speaking, the sweet spot for most popular podcasts is about 20-30 minutes per episode. Unless you content is super engaging, anything more than an hour has the potential to start losing listeners.

Consider who your audience will be and where they’ll be listening from: 

Are they going to be listening while waiting in line at the DMV? Are they going to be sitting down with their earbuds plugged in while on their morning walk?

Podcasting is an amazing way to reach people who are interested in what you have to say, but only if they can actually hear it! Your can find your target audience by researching your niche, interest, and/or similar podcasts/competition. Knowing where their listening from via streaming services is also helpful, because you’ll know what platform to list on first! Because, that’s where where your audience is!

It’s much more likely your listeners will tune in if they already use that platform whereas they are less likely to listen if they have to change/download/get a new platform.

Prepare A Professional Cover Art And A Logo:

If you want to promote your show on social media and submit it to the podcast directories, you’ll need high-quality cover art and a logo. These should be representative of your show’s content and include the name of the podcast loud and clear. The logo should be unique and attractive to potential listeners within your niche. You want people to recognize it at a first glance and immediately link it to your brand. The cover art is the main image of your show and it should be a direct reflection of your podcast’s personality and content. As the host, it can be a great idea to be featured on the cover. 

Podcast artwork is a crucial part of how listeners will perceive your podcast. The cover art is what gets people’s attention, and it’s what they’ll see when they’re browsing the web, or on their smartphone. It should be professional, clean, and attractive.

If you’re not super familiar with graphic design, we recommend that you hire a designer to create a logo for your podcast to go along with the artwork. A logo can help brand your podcast and make it recognizable in the marketplace. Especially if you already have a solid following!

Promotional Social Media Content:

Growing your podcast requires a tremendous amount of marketing and social media effort. It’s best that you choose 1-2 of the social media platforms your target audience uses the MOST and roll with them. Otherwise social media management can get super overwhelming, and it could not be doing that much for you. Especially if your target audience doesn’t use that platform.

This includes social media channels, your email list, etc. Content distribution can boost your listening rates if the promotion is done right. Always include information about the theme of your show and call to action in every one of your marketing efforts. And make sure to have a few aesthetic posts lined up closer to the launch date. 

Promoting your podcast on social media also gives you access to a wider variety of audiences than just those who listen through iTunes or Google Play Music. You’ll be able to reach people who aren’t necessarily active listeners but who have friends or family members who are, as well as people who might be interested in listening because they’ve heard good things about your show from others.

When promoting your podcast on social media, make sure you’re posting about it regularly so people can stay up-to-date with all the latest episodes and information about upcoming releases. Then you can tease your followers with the podcast a couple of weeks in advance. This will hype them up for the show!

Create A Professional Podcast Website And Social Media Channels:

Your podcast needs a central hub. For this, a website is pretty much non-negotiable. If you get the SEO and marketing efforts right, it will help potential listeners find your show. All the relevant information about your podcast should be in the same section. And it’s important to include podcasting platforms and social media links. You can also include on your website a small bio with information about yourself and your journey to becoming a podcast host. As for dedicated social media accounts for your podcasts, these are optional but highly recommended. The stronger the online presence of your podcast, the more popular it will become!

Record A Podcast Trailer:

Just like movies and TV shows when they release a tempting trailer to hype potential viewers, podcasts have teaser trailers. A podcast trailer it’s meant to captivate potential listeners into subscribing to your show and being alert for when the first batch of episodes drops. A solid teaser can help your podcast reach the right audience! Think of it as the highlight reel for everything that’s coming up in your show. It should include the best clips, the most inspiring quotes, and a quick promo at the end. It’s crucial to mention the launch date and include a call to action for everyone to subscribe and follow the podcast’s social media. If you do it properly, you’ll have more listeners commit to your show!

Be A Guest On Other Podcasts:

Leading up to your official launch date, appearing as a guest on someone else’s show can do wonders for promoting your upcoming podcast. Even if the episode isn’t released after your podcast has already launched, it’s still fantastic to get that early publicity. Ideally, it will be a podcast somehow related to your niche and target audience. But it can be any type of show. Just make sure to talk about your upcoming or newly released podcast when recording the episode!

Submit Your Show’s RSS Feed To The Directories:

This task will most likely be done in partnership with your media host. Once you have your podcast RSS feed ready and your podcasting web hosting all set up, it’s time to send it to all the major directories. The RSS feed allows listeners to subscribe to your show and get regular notifications when you post a new podcast episode. It’s crucial to have it ready by the launch date. Otherwise, you might have trouble loyalizing your audience!

If you want to get your podcast on the radar of potential listeners, you need to submit your RSS feed to directories. These are places where people can find new podcasts and listen to them. There are many different directories available, but we’ll cover the most popular ones here.

Upload Your Podcast To As Many Podcatchers As Possible:

Podcatchers are podcast directories, but they go further away than the big 5. There are hundreds of small podcatchers on the internet. These apps and online sites collect and play podcasts. And each one of them offers a brand new opportunity to have your show featured on the front page. This is why you should submit your show to every single one of them – they assist with discovery! A few of the best ones are Overcast, Stitcher, and Podcast Republic.

Plan A Launch Contest Or Giveaway:

This one might depend on your budget, but a launch giveaway or contest can boost your engagement. Try to offer an exclusive giveaway for every one of your followers that subscribes to your show in advance. And announce the winners on the launch date! And don’t panic if there’s no budget to offer a material prize like services, merchandise, or access to a paid online membership. You can always put forward an exclusive interview, a 5-minute spot on the show, or a shoutout at the end of a podcast episode. Just make sure you promote this action heavily on social media!

Have Your Future Guests Ready Before Launching:

You should have some sort of blueprint for the entire first season before you launch your show into the world. Most importantly, if you plan on bringing guests to your podcast: get in touch with them early! It’s key to contact any potential guests as soon as you’re sure you want them on board. Map out the content for every podcast episode of the first season and don’t let time pass you by. Have your future guests ready at the moment of the launch! For more on how to book guests for our podcast, see this post.

Collab With Influencers From Your Niche:

It’s all about networking! Influencers can be a powerful asset for helping your podcast reach a wider audience. Reach out to people from your niche and ask if they would be open to cross-promoting each other’s content. They can create hype for your podcast and you can give them a shoutout or tag them in a social media post. Create synergy with influencers from your niche and you’ll soon have a whole new group of potential subscribers. Plus, maybe you can invite them as guests to your show! There are so many possibilities for creative collaboration. So don’t be shy and put yourself out there. It will help to expand your brand and popularity!

Plan A Virtual Launch Party To Promote Your Podcast:

A party is certainly a great way to cause a fuss! This could be either in-person or remote but bear in mind that the event should be shared online to reach more people. The party can be the night or weekend before the release date or the very day your podcast launches. It’s completely up to you. Though, if it’s a virtual event, it could be fun to do a live countdown to when the show becomes available for all listeners. A party is an amazing way to connect with your audience, grow your following, and let more people know about your upcoming show. These details help to boost the engagement of your podcast and generate brand awareness!

Podcast Launch Checklist

Before you hit “publish,” there are a few things you’ll want to check off your list. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of finally being able to share your voice with the world. But it’s important to remember that your listeners will be spending time with YOU.

Here are a few things we recommend checking off before launching your podcast:

  • + Set a launch date and stick to it.
  • + Have the first set of episodes lined up.
  • + Prepare professional cover art and a logo.
  • + Promote through social media.
  • + Record a podcast trailer.
  • + Be a guest on other podcasts.
  • + Submit your show’s RSS feed to the other directories.
  • + Create a professional podcast website and social media channels
  • + Upload your podcast to as many podcatchers as possible.
  • + Plan a launch contest or giveaway.
  • + Have your future guests ready before launching.
  • + Collab with influencers from your niche.
  • + Plan a virtual launch party to promote your podcast.

Are you getting ready to launch your podcast?

So that’s everything you need to launch your podcast! It’s a huge milestone. When you make it to this point, you should be proud! If you follow these strategies, your launch will be a total success. Just make sure to plan every detail and give yourself enough time to prepare for the release date. 

You know what they say: “It’s all in the details.” That’s why we’ve got you covered for every last detail! And for more info on launch needs like podcast editing software, podcast format, or podcast hosting services, click here

Start by making sure that you’re using the right equipment and have a solid grasp of the basics of podcasting. Then, make sure that you have a catchy title, description and artwork so people will be able to find and enjoy your show. Make sure to go through the technical side of things as well: be sure that your sound quality is up to par, and that you’re not infringing on any copyrights or trademarks!

Once you’ve got all this stuff down pat, it’s time for the fun part: recording and editing! Pick out some interesting topics for your episodes and start recording them—you never know what might happen!

Are you about to launch your podcast? What are some of your favorite strategies leading up to it? Tell us all about your show in the comments! We’d love to hear about your personal experiences within this industry. Also remember you can always come back to our blog for more podcasting tips and tricks, as well as terrific show recommendations. Good luck launching your podcasts!

Best Podcast Tips For Beginners

Are you considering launching your podcast? Feeling like you need some quick podcast tips for beginners? You’ve come to the right place honey. Podcasting is honestly one of the best and most enjoyable ways to create content. So if you’re thinking about launching your show, we want to encourage you to do so! It’s not only the right time to launch a podcast, it’s also a great way to create a lifestyle and business you love and enjoy. And honestly, who doesn’t want that?

Podcasts’ sudden rise to fame is no surprise. With the way the world is now functioning, this format has become incredibly popular. Podcasts have a variety of benefits, and being able to multitask is one of the most important. Listeners can easily tune in to a podcast while commuting, cooking, washing, or any other mundane everyday activity. In fact, statistics show that a little more than half of the popular podcasts played every day are by people idling at home, around 15.6 percent of audiences listen to podcasts when they are driving or traveling, 17.7 percent listen to podcasts when doing housework, and the rest while they are working out ( source ).

The Best Podcast Tips For Beginners

Podcasts give a deep insight into the workings of industry leaders and make listeners feel as if they are a part of something bigger than themselves. But how do you as the one recording the episode create that kind of high-quality audio experience? Starting a podcast is relatively easy, as almost anyone can do it. The secret is in managing to do it well. Even if it’s simple, you should be properly prepared to create a quality podcast setup and carry on with the show despite any beginner’s jitters.

So in honor of that, today we are sharing our favorite podcast tips for beginners! These are all useful bits of advice that will help you through your podcasting journey.

Plan It Out

A well-thought-out plan of how to work your way around a podcast can help you smooth out any kinks in the process that make podcast recording a hassle. For instance, you can include in the plan what you want to talk about, how many episodes you plan on releasing, and when they are scheduled to launch. Schedules may sound boring, but they help you keep publishing consistently. Have a clear idea of what you want to convey with each podcast you put out.

There are a lot of different ways to build your podcast starter kit. But remember one thing, find what works for you. Plan out finding equipment to work with your voice and inflection, scheduling that fits your lifestyle, and of course any marketing attempts. You’ll be much better off that way!

Choose A Good Podcast Name

Choosing the perfect podcast name can be overwhelming. After all, your podcast name is the first impression listeners will get of your show. There are tons of different ways to hone in on the perfect name for your podcast. Use this guide for how to name a podcast and you’ll end up with an epic name!

Focus On Creating Quality Podcast Episodes

While this one may sound obvious, most podcasters lose out on audiences because they have made silly mistakes along the way. You might end up focusing on the podcast’s name, title artwork, and publishing date, then lose sight of the most important thing: the podcast itself. And no matter how good your first few attempts are, it will take you some time to churn out high-quality episodes (and that’s okay). Rome wasn’t built in a day. And the only way to get to that level is to keep recording. It’s also okay to make your mistakes in the first few podcasts. Very few people will be tuning into them anyway.

Be Vulnerable & Personalize It

As mentioned above, a podcast’s main claim to fame is how intimate you can get with the audience listening to you. Podcasts are ideal for relating personal stories, life-changing events, and funny anecdotes. This is your safe space- allow yourself to be vulnerable, to be your true self. The whole point of starting a podcast is to be an original voice in the airspace. Try not to imitate others. They already have a podcast. People will listen to you and heed your advice if they see you’re an honest, no-nonsense podcaster.

Get The Best Podcast Equipment

While this doesn’t mean spending a fortune on building a ‘studio,’ it makes sense to invest in some quality high podcast equipment like a wide-range USB microphone and other audio-quality enhancing equipment. You want your sound quality to be top-notch, so make sure that whether the equipment is new or refurbished, it works and works well! A good USB microphone, a headset, a good audio interface, and/or a solid DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) may make a substantial difference in the quality of the audio files you record. This can make recording and editing much easier. After all, a podcast that no one can hear properly is better not listened to at all.

You should also look for smaller pieces of podcasting equipment that will simplify your process! A solid shock mount, a mic stand, or a high-quality boom arm can make all the difference. Because who wants to hold their microphone for an hour or two?

Use This Checklist For Starting A Podcast

There is a lot to think about when starting your podcast. So instead of flying blind, use this list of what you need to start a podcast. Whether it’s something simple like a logo, curating a good quality podcast setup, or something more time-consuming like your first few episodes recorded. There is a lot that goes into a podcast starter kit so use this helpful guide and make sure you’re good to go!

Know Your Target Audience & Give Them a Reason to Listen

Every podcast should have a purpose and a way to appeal to your desired audience niche. You’re delivering value to your podcast listeners, whether you’re sharing knowledge that will help them eat healthily or making a really fun conversation with one of your favorite travel bloggers. Knowing what your target audience is interested in is the key to creating content they want to listen to. Talk about topics they are interested in, feature businesses they would purchase from, and most importantly introduce guests they would love. More on how to get guests for your podcast HERE.

You’ve not only provided your target audience a reason to tune in, but you’ve also given them a reason to return for more. It’s crucial to consider this during the podcast development stage.

Create A Compelling Title And A Visually Appealing Cover

Your podcast cover art is among the first things people look at. As a result, it’s a good idea to come up with something that properly embodies what your podcast is all about. Take some time exploring till you’ve come up with something you like. If you are not the best with graphic design, you can also use a designer whose aesthetic appeals to you and complements your unique brand. Have a strong vision of how you want your image to look, and take the time to provide precise guidelines and perhaps an artistic draft.

Upload Your Podcast To A Host Site

If a podcast isn’t available online for podcast listeners to tune in, it isn’t a podcast. As a result, make sure you have a platform that your target audience frequents. Don’t be hesitant to spend a little on your podcast. Find a platform with many features and a great, easy-to-find domain to help boost the number of people who listen to your podcast. Upload or distribute your podcast on other platforms like iTunes, Google Music, or SoundCloud to gain greater exposure. You can also be more accessible to podcast listeners with an RSS podcast feed (commonly referred to as just RSS feed) with which they can subscribe to your podcast and listen to it without having to visit the specific website where it is hosted.

Follow A Framework

When you record a podcast without a framework, you risk going off-subject and babbling about something completely unrelated. The podcast content should contain an opening, core, and conclusion, just like a blog piece. You don’t need to prepare a screenplay that you read word for word, simply a bullet point summary of what you’ll say and when. You may always pause and return to your outline to get back on track if you get off course. While speaking about something else for a couple of minutes can give your podcast more personality, you must know when to return to the topic in question. Keep in mind too, the more your practice, the better you’ll get. So over time, you can rely on your framework notes less and less. However, when you’re just starting make sure you have some guidelines!

Have A Professional Intro and Outro

A polished introduction and outro will give your podcast more credibility and also provide a sense of consistency to your target audience. It can be a smart move to hire a pro to produce your intro and outro – unless you are savvy with audio editing. Ask around to see if anyone can introduce you to a sound editor or scout freelancing platforms for the best talent. Podcast listeners will hear your professional intro and notice you take the show seriously. It’s all about the details!

Be Authentic and Speak Clearly

Everyone just wants to hear what you have to say. So speak clearly, slow down, and take your time. If you need to stop and take a breath, do it. All you can do is be yourself. So don’t stress too much about how you sound, if you’re using the right words, etc. Just be yourself and focus on speaking as clearly as possible. Find yourself a high-quality shock mount to help you avoid any low-frequency rumbles via your microphone. It’ll change the game in terms of picking up all of your words more clearly!

Another piece of speaking clearly comes from microphone placement! So make sure that if you have a boom arm or a mic stand that they’re placed in that sweet spot for picking up all of your audio.

Learn A Bit Of Audio Editing

If you’re not with a production company, you’ll need to figure out how to edit your podcast. Mistakes are inevitable. Sometimes there’ll be an overly long pause, or maybe your sound quality is just a little bit off.  You’ll want to have the know-how to fix anything you or your guests want edited out. You can hire someone to help with editing, or you can try it yourself.  Of course, you’ll need to learn the basics of audio editing! Your audio editing and recording software, also known as DAW or Digital Audio Workstation, will be your new BFF if you learn to master it along with your audio interface. There are tons of free options for podcasting beginners that have everything you need to start.

If you are ready to invest in a paid service, Adobe Audition is a great choice. But there’s no need to spend money on software right off the bat. A free alternative will cover the basic edits. Here’s a list of the best free podcast editing software so you can choose the best platform for you.

Promote The Show On Your Social Media

This might seem like a no-brainer, but we had to mention it! Don’t be afraid to blast your new show out on social media. And get used to promoting new episodes each week too! You should be proud and excited! Plus remember you’re creating content the audience will hopefully be interested in. So they’ll want to stay up to date on all the details.

You can even find fun and creative ways to get your audience more involved. Let them know which guests you have lined up in upcoming episodes. Ask them to send in their questions for you to ask the guest. There are tons of ways to make your audience feel like a part of the process through social media.

Ask Your Listeners To Subscribe And Leave A Review

When Apple podcasts receive a lot of positive feedback, they are featured in iTunes’ “New and Noteworthy” and top podcast list sections. Always remind your listeners to subscribe and write a review if they enjoyed the episode before the end of every episode.

Be Consistent

When it comes to having a great podcast, consistency is crucial. One of the biggest mistakes beginner podcasters make is they skip weeks, months, etc. in their podcasting schedule. Make a timetable that you can stick to, and stick to it completely. Your audience wants to know that they can count on you to release a podcast on a routine basis. You want them to expect a new episode each day, week, or biweekly, etc. so they know when to tune in. You and your audience are in a relationship. They need to understand that you can be trusted. You can begin to establish attachment with your listeners by providing them a sense of assurance that you are there for them.

A haphazard and inconsistent podcasting timetable will quickly make you lose the ear of the audience. Your podcast should be something that becomes a part of the audience’s everyday life.

What are your podcasting tips for beginners?

Are you a podcaster? Have you launched your show or been recording and releasing episodes for some time now? We would love any tips you can share with our audience below.

Podcasting is unquestionably here to stay. Podcasts are simple to find and listen to, and take very little work on the listener’s part. So if you’re reading to launch your show, there is no time like the present, and have so many benefits for both you and your brand. They’re a superb branding instrument as well as a great marketing tool. It’s a good idea to keep the recommendations above in mind if you’ve wanted to launch a successful podcast.

How To Be A Good Partner or Spouse

All committed relationships take a lot of effort. It’s worth it, don’t get us wrong! We can’t live the single life forever, can we? Well for anyone that enjoys the occasional monogamous relationship, it’s important to do your part and try to be a good partner. Relationships can be tough, and there is a lot of emotion involved. Heats are on the line! And as they say, it takes two to tango. So that’s why it’s so important to recognize what it takes to maintain a healthy relationship with your partner and how to show up as the best partner possible.

Positive relationships have an open line of communication and strong love between spouses. It takes a lot of compromise and respect to always be on optimal terms with your partner! Knowing how to be a good partner takes intention, time, and of course practice. And don’t think it’s a perfect road to a fulfilling relationship, expect a lot of bumps in the road!

As if it couldn’t get any more complicated, no two relationships are the same. They’re all influenced by the culture, interests, your upbringing, experiences, past trauma, personality, and feelings of two people who made the choice to be together. Since unfortunately quality relationships don’t just magically happen overnight, you need to to work at it. Yes, on top of your career goals, body goals, house goals, add relationship goals to the list! That’s why today’s post is all about love and relationships. We’re sharing with you our top tips for how to be a better partner and build a quality relationship!

How To Be A Good Partner or Spouse

Show appreciation for your partner every day.

In general, this world needs more gratitude. And your relationship might be an ideal place to start. Everyone wants to know their partner is grateful for them. That’s just how a romantic relationship works! Research has even linked expressing gratitude for one another in a relationship to an increase in relationship maintenance behaviors. So if you want your relationship to last, show your partner how much you appreciate them every single day. Expressing gratitude for them doesn’t have to implicate an expensive date night every other evening. It can just be little acts of service, like making them a cup of coffee in the mornings, or simply saying thank you, I appreciate you. Just make sure your partner knows you’re grateful to share a life with them.

Take care of yourself as an individual.

It’s important to take proper care of yourself so you’re in the right headspace to nurture a romantic relationship. You can’t show up for your partner if you don’t show up for yourself. So make sure outside of the relationship you do the things that make you happy, help you grown, and move you towards your personal goals. You need to love yourself first and protect your mental health in order to be a good spouse!

Practice self awareness.

We all have things we can work on. And in a close relationship, it’s impossible to hide those things. Plus, if you’re truly being honest in your relationship, it’s okay to acknowledge things about yourself that maybe aren’t ideal. That’s why it’s so important to recognize your strengths and weaknesses with your partner honestly and openly. Know in which areas of the relationship you can step up and use your strong points. But also know where you might be lacking and what you need to do to improve your behavior. It’s all about self-assessment to be a good spouse or partner! Get more honest relationship advice on THIS episode of We Met At Acme.

Have an open and honest conversation with them.

Poor communication has been the downfall of several otherwise perfectly good relationships. Sometimes, no matter how much you love each other, it’s easy to feel like you and your partner just aren’t on the same page anymore. Lack of good communication skills can rapidly turn things into a toxic relationship as well, affecting your mental health. So please, speak with your partner if you feel like something’s wrong! Be honest and open about what’s troubling you and the relationship. Don’t be afraid of a little confrontation as long as it remains respectful. If you don’t communicate, you’ll never get your desired outcome or experience personal growth.

Understand their love language and act on it.

You might have heard about Dr. Chapman’s love language psychology studies. According to this research, there are 5 main love languages that we use to indirectly communicate in committed relationships. These are words of affirmation, quality time, physical touch, acts of service, and receiving gifts. Each one of them is different, and you and your partner’s languages likely won’t match. But that’s okay! Just make sure to understand what your partner needs the most in a relationship. That’s the whole point of love languages, it helps you act with assertiveness on what will make your partner feel loved. If you want to know more, you can take the official quiz to figure out you and your partner’s love language HERE.

Spend quality time together.

Spending quality time with your partner is an absolute must if you want to keep the spark going strong! Those special moments between the two of you can really spice up the relationship and take you right back to that famous honeymoon stage. It doesn’t matter if it’s an improvised date night, a weekend getaway, or a movie night at home. What’s important is that your partner sees that you enjoy spending time with them, you keep building your bond, and HAVE FUN together! Tune in to THIS episode of What She Said to learn more about spicing up your relationship and keeping that love flame alive. Or, listen to one of these podcasts for couples!

Learn how to apologize for your mistakes and forgive your partner as well.

Apologizing is huge when it comes to avoiding long-term grudges in a romantic relationship. The last thing you want is to act like a narcissist, incapable of recognizing your faults! So you should learn how to say sorry when you’re in the wrong. Self-assess and notice what you could’ve done differently to avoid repeating your mistake in the future. Yet like we’ve said, it takes two to tango. So you may also need to learn how to forgive your partner. We know it’s easy to get stuck on their mistake instead of thinking about the future of the relationship beyond that wrongdoing. So we wrote an article on this topic! You also need to learn how to forgive someone who hurt you.

Support their goals and dreams.

We all want to feel supported. Especially when it comes to our hopes for the future! If your partner has a specific goal that they want to accomplish, you should be their number one fan! Support their ideas, try to take a more active role on their passion projects, and show that you believe they’ll succeed with your postitive emotions. You can even send them information and resources to help support them in their goals. Send them books, articles, and podcasts about their field of interest. Just be thoughtful in the way that you support their dreams.

Make your partner feel loved daily.

Studies show there’s a connection between feeling loved and improved wellbeing. Giving and receiving love is a sure way strengthen your bond. So you should make your partner feel loved every day not only for the sake of your intimate relationship but for their wellbeing as well! Try to show physical affection like holding hands or kissing, or just straight-up tell them how much you love them. And make sure they make you feel loved as well!

Put in some effort with your spouse’s friends.

Not everyone likes their significant other’s friends. We know sometimes you just can’t help but avoid meeting them! However unless your partner’s friends are rude to you or did something disrespectful, you should put in the effort. This means not escaping those group hangouts and supporting your partner if they’re meeting with them. You don’t have to be BFFS with your partner’s friends, just get along and show your spouse some support! THIS episode of Lipstick on the Rim does a great job of explaining the 5 non-negotiables of modern dating. Tune in for more advice!

Notice them and check in with them often.

Surely, you crave feeling seen. You need to feel understood, supported, to know there’s somebody out there that simply gets you. Well, your partner has the same need! So to be a great partner you need to notice them. Let your partner know you’re always there and check in with them on a daily basis. Ask how they feel and what they need from you. This is the most straight-forward way to make them feel seen!

What are your strategies to be a better partner/spouse every day?

Now you know how to be a good partner! Follow these tips and you’ll maintain a healthy relationship with your significant other. It’s important that both of you feel loved and appreciated every single day, as well as being open and honest to communicate with each other. This is 100% possible if you put in the effort! Finally, for an even more in depth dive into relationships, head over to THIS episode of Social Studies where Jena gets real on everything related to dating, sex life, and relationships. Good luck with your partner!

How To Make Friends At Work

We, humans, are social beings. This means in one way or the other interactions and relationships are important to us. Whether it’s with the family at home or the family we create at work, a great deal of how we feel depends on what happens around us. This is why it’s important that we always try to do our best to create a comfortable environment where thriving is made easy.

If you have close friends at work, you are more likely to show up every day with a smile on your face than with a sad smug. Considering how long you will spend in the work environment, a healthy social connection is important for effectiveness – even if it’s remote work. New workplace friendships are one of those small changes that can cause BIG transformations. When done and maintained properly, these friendships have the ability to promote a sense of fulfillment and job satisfaction.

While it’s common to hear some say they want to keep their personal and professional life separate, ensuring the right work environment is non-negotiable. This is why it is always in your best interests to have good friends at work. Through your meaningful and friendly relations, all parties involved benefit and the company as a whole is strengthened. And in the end, they don’t have to be your bestie for ever and ever – but having someone to talk to at work can bring a whole new level of positivity to your workday.

Now, it’s not out of place to find yourself struggling to make friends when you start a new job. Perhaps, it’s your first time in such settings and you’re wondering how you can go about making workplace friendships. Even if you’ve been at your workplace for some time and you’ve only just identified the need to foster more relationships at work, not to worry guys and gals. This post will provide you with quality tips that will make you a magnet for new and quality friends at work in no time. 

How To Make Friends At Work

For some, breaking professional boundaries seems like the hardest thing ever. This has kept many boxed in and has restricted them from having the best work life possible.

The absolute best advice we could give you is: don’t be afraid. It’s not as hard as it seems. The foundation of making friends at work is being open and having confidence. From there on, everything just starts to fall into place.

Before delving into the how, let’s first take a quick look at the why. There are a lot of benefits to having friends at work with real facts and research to back them up. Let’s look at some of these benefits before delving into the specifics of how to make friends at work.

benefits of making friends at work

Benefits of Having Friends At Work

Some of the benefits of having friends at work include;

+ Presence of a support system

+ Proper motivation toward productivity

+ Increase in your team spirit

+ Increase in job satisfaction

+ Helps in promoting creativity

+ Reduction in stress levels 

list of tips for making friends at work

Tips For Making Friends At Work

Introduce yourself to your colleagues.

Now that you’ve decided to come out of your shell and make new friends, start by introducing yourself to your colleagues. It helps to break the barriers of some professional boundaries (or, break the ice, if you will) and sets the ball rolling for closer relationships.

You might not be able to conveniently talk to every worker in your firm, but for those that you can, try to keep the introduction simple. Keep it basic with positive and welcoming body language. And luckily, there’s no need to go too deep into your personal life into what your best food is at this point. Just your name and a couple of additions on who you are and your role (especially if you’re new in the workplace) will do.

While you’re introducing yourself to your colleagues, do well to familiarize yourself with their names too. This is one of the most basic things that you can do to show your colleagues you’re open to friendship and to help create an all-inclusive workspace.

Engage in small talk.

Next, you will need to build on the introduction stage you passed by engaging in further conversations with some of your colleagues. One easy way to jump in is to take part in those “Monday Morning” conversations where you recall how the weekend went. Through this small talk, you get to know more about other people and know which ones you have similar interests with.

Aside from the close-knitted talks with one or two people, try to get in on the action in general discussions too. Those discussions about a celebrity, a movie, or a new trend where everyone is giving their views and opinion. Getting involved here makes it easier to get in with the regulars. And in no time you’re exchanging pleasantries along the walkway.

While this tip might not come naturally for some who are a bit laid back and don’t like public discourse, there’s still a way around it. The Career Contessa Podcast explains more about this specific tip in How to network for those who don’t love networking.

Participate in team activities.

Actively participating in team activities is a great way of making and maintaining friendships at work. Team activities at work include going to eat lunch together, attending work parties, participating in training, throwing recognition parties, hosting charity events, and even hitting happy hour when you clock out.

These activities make for a proper platform for personality assessment, communication, and employee engagement. They also help to deal with work-related stress and anxiety.

Actively participating in team programs helps in consolidating your relationship with your colleagues more. It sends the message that there is more to you than just work. More of your colleagues are likely to open up more to you after this as you now have joint experiences outside official work to reference in your discussions.

Add them on social media.

Social media creates another opportunity to make friends with your colleagues. We all know how life on social media works; it’s possible for you to have a close friend through social media interactions without acting on it IRL.

However, the aim of making friends at work through social media is to make friends at work. So, the friends you add online must be sustained at work too. Avoid keeping all your interactions online with little or no engagements physically at work. This defeats the purpose of the action as such a friendship might not offer the support system we are aiming for.

And of course, be sure you maintain professionalism during your interactions on social media. You can learn more about the do’s and don’ts that come with social media friendships HERE.

Be kind and helpful.

Being kind and helpful will certainly do you a lot of good in the business of making friends at work. Both are basic values that anyone who wants to achieve career satisfaction should possess and work on. It attracts people to you seamlessly, making the work of making friends less burdensome. 

Plan non-work-related activities.

You could also take charge in your bid to make new friends at work by thinking outside the box. Planning non-work-related activities can be very useful in putting your face out there among your colleagues.

You can also draw out podcast topics to talk about with your friends to further strengthen your bond. It largely depends on you and your colleagues and what catches your fancy. When you orchestrate and plan such activities, it helps to boost your confidence in approaching your colleagues and making friends.

Avoid office gossip.

While navigating friendships at work, it is important to stay off unfounded rumors and gossip. They can be very damaging to one’s identity and push potential friends away, especially in a closed work environment with little workforce. Gossip spreads like wildfire and it not only affects those being spoken about, it affects those peddling it too. It’s certainly not a beautiful garment to put on and it’s not one of the benefits of female friendships.

Few people will be comfortable being friends with a known gossip. To put it bluntly, such persons are believed to not be trustworthy and dependable. So, do your best to steer clear of office gossip if you hope to have strong and healthy friendships.

making friends at work

Let’s face it – no matter where you work, you could probably use a friend. 

Whether it’s to celebrate your success or be there for you when you’re in the midst of failure, good work friends can be the difference between dreading your workday and showing up eager and excited to tackle whatever the day brings. 

After all is said and done, the decision to make friends at work rests solely on you. So, start out now and take the business of building strong friendships at work seriously. It will help to boost your confidence in your workplace, increase your productivity and excitement during work hours, and eliminate some of that self-doubt. And most importantly – it will remind you that you’re not alone at work. 

There are also other beneficial podcasts on Dear Media that you can listen to for additional tips on this same topic. We have a wide range of hosts who weigh in on the importance of quality friendships and how to go about making and maintaining them. Be sure to also check out the other informative and educational articles on our blog that can help you through this process. You got this – we believe in you!