Podcasts about postcard academy

Rebrand! The Postcard Academy is now called Part of Something Greater, a show about exploring the world beyond your borders. If you’re a global citizen seeking a more meaningful, freedom-fueled life, you’re in the right place.I’m your host Sarah Mikutel, a transformation coach who first moved abroad on her own at age 18 and who has been permanently enjoying life in Europe since 2010. My guests and I will share with you how we made our travel and living abroad dreams come true, and how you can, too. But freedom is about more than getting on a plane. It’s about self exploration and personal transformation, so you can live a calmer, kinder, more connected life. So I’ll cover this, too -- and I especially love sharing how the Enneagram and Stoicism can help you become more present, curious, and open hearted.It you’d like my help achieving more peace, happiness, and positive transformation in your life, visit sarahmikutel.com

In this episode we welcomed a special guest, Sarah Mikutel, to talk about Stoicism. Sarah runs her own business as a transformation coach, using the Enneagram and Stoicism to help women replace anxiety, overwhelm, and procrastination with calm, confidence, and fast action. She is a location-independent world traveler, entrepreneur, writer, and experienced podcaster, but what makes Sarah a particularly special guest, is that she works behind the scenes on GIRL Talk as our editor! Sarah’s newest podcast, Part of Something Greater, is devoted to Stoicism and the Enneagram, and she and Idelle had a great conversation about how we can use tools from Stoicism to reduce anxiety and live happy, peaceful lives. Sarah breaks down the difference between the common understanding of what it means to be stoic, versus Stoicism. She talks about how Stoicism isn't about suppressing emotion, being the "strong silent type" or having a "stiff upper lip," but that it's actually the opposite. Stoicism is about empathy, listening, being in tune with your body and mind, and gaining tools for understanding your emotions in order to manage anxiety and react more positively to tough situations. Stoicism is also about staying in the moment and bringing presence to your life, which most of us would probably agree we could use a little more of. Sarah shares her personal strategies for bringing this type of mindfulness to her day, which include morning journaling and a practice of reflecting on her day before bed in order to let go of negative feelings that she might be hanging onto. We hope you'll find something in this conversation that resonates with you! And as always, we hope you're safe and healthy. See you next time :-)   Sarah hosts three podcasts of her own: Podcasting Step by Step, Part of Something Greater, and the Postcard Academy, which you can find on your favorite podcast app. Find out more about Sarah and her work on her website, sarahmikutel.com.  

Hello, hello. I’m celebrating something very special in this episode — my 10-year anniversary of being an Italian citizen. If you haven’t heard this story, 10 years ago, I packed up my New York apartment and bought a one-way ticket to Italy to pursue my dream of being an Italian citizen and living in Europe — I’ve been here ever since.In a previous episode, I walk through the exact steps I took to become a duel citizen via Italian ancestry.In this two-part episode, I’ll be sharing my top 10 favorite things to eat, drink, and do in Italy.I didn’t want to take this trip down memory lane alone, so I called up my friend Toni Mazzaglia, founder of the food tour company Taste Florence — you’ve heard her on a few Postcard Academy episodes. In part 1, we talk about our favorite:PizzaPastaItalian customsToursMuseumsGet ready for some mouth-watering hidden gems!Visit sarahmikutel.com to get in touch about how we can work one-on-one together to help you achieve more peace, happiness, and positive transformation in your life.Looking for a guide to help you discover your Enneagram personality type? Book your Enneagram typing session by going to sarahmikutel.com/typingsessionWant to connect on Insta? Find me here

The end of the year is a time for reflection: What went right? What went wrong? What could I have handled better? Questions that Stoics ask themselves every evening.It’s also the time of year that we see round ups of popular news stories, though 2020 often felt like we heard of nothing other than Covid-19 and the U.S. presidential election, and sometimes Brexit. Many stories slipped through the cracks, including the 75th anniversary of the end of World War 2. We throw around the word nazi so casually now -- grammar nazi, soup nazi -- but in our grandparents’ time, nazi nazis were taking over Europe in a murderous rampage. Mark Twain is often quoted as saying, “History doesn’t repeat itself but it often rhymes.” There’s no evidence he said that, but the sentiment stands: Never forget. We need to look back so we can understand the present and plan for a better future. Due to the pandemic, end-of-the-war commemorations were canceled around the world this year. I think the remembrance of what happened 75 years ago deserved a lot more coverage, and so this episode is my tribute to the men and women who fought the good fight. I recorded this episode a year and a half ago for my travel podcast, the Postcard Academy, around the anniversary of D-Day. I discuss several ways in which we can honor the sacrifices made by the Greatest Generation. At one point, I talk about the importance of traveling more. Here’s hoping that wish comes true for all of us in 2021. I wish you a happy, healthy, and safe New Year.Visit sarahmikutel.com to get in touch about how we can work one-on-one together to help you achieve more peace, happiness, and positive transformation in your life.Looking for a guide to help you discover your Enneagram personality type? Book your Enneagram typing session by going to sarahmikutel.com/typingsessionWant to connect on Insta? Find me here

I've had a travel podcast for several years now called the Postcard Academy, where I interview women like myself who packed up everything to start a new adventure in another part of the world. One of the core values that I talk about is that we will never have this day again -- make it matter. It's my softer way of saying 'If you died tomorrow, would you be satisfied with how you lived this day?' I knew I didn't invent this way of thinking but I didn't realize that Stoics have been talking about this for thousands of years until I learned about the greatest philosopher king, Marcus Aurelius, who ruled until 180 A.D. He said, “You could leave life right now. Let that determine what you do and say and think.” (Greg Hays translation). Marcus wrote down many words of wisdom, and I want to share his story today because he's an ideal example of how we can all live a good life, no matter what obstacles come our way.I'm joined again by Stoic expert Donald Robertson, author of How to Think Like a Roman Emperor, which explains the Stoic philosophy via Marcus' fascinating story. It's my favorite book on Stoicism! Get the audiobook for free if you're new to Audible by signing up for a trial at audibletrial.com/postcardVisit sarahmikutel.com to get in touch about how we can work one-on-one together to help you achieve more peace, happiness, and positive transformation in your life. Looking for a guide to help you discover your Enneagram personality type? Book your Enneagram typing session by going to sarahmikutel.com/typingsessionWant to connect on Insta? Find me here

In the last episode of the Postcard Academy, you learned how to become an expat in Panama. In this episode, you’ll learn why.David Gold is back to share what’s kept him in Panama City for more than a decade. Coffee, chocolate, and beach lover’s…this one’s for you. You’ll also learn about Panama’s history, including the infamous canal.You’ve heard of the Panama Canal, but do you know why it matters? You will after this episode. You'll also hear about everything you need to eat, drink, and do in Panama City and beyond.OK, time for our tour of Panama.postcardacademy.co***Hi, I'm your host, Sarah Mikutel, an American expat based in England. Fancy starting your own podcast? Visit sarahmikutel.com to learn how I can help you. I'm on Insta if you want to say hi.

Episode 114. "I think we should all strive to be a global citizen and to get past, you know, our immediate doorstep.” ~Sarah Mikutel Sarah Mikutel is back! This time, for her Creative Imposter close-up. If you haven't yet tuned in to our conversation over on Podcast Envy...queue up that episode immediately. On it, you'll hear Sarah share her evolution from avid podcast listener to creator of two+ shows: Postcard Academy, Podcasting Step-By-Step, and a *secret* one that takes niche podcasting to the next level*.    For this show, Sarah treats us to some lyrical, sensory-laden armchair travel. If, like me, you're aching to feel the excitement of landing in a foreign country again, Sarah's origin story of sorts will spark creative daydreaming. Her predictions for post-pandemic wanderings will prompt you to revisit that travel vision board you shelved way back in March.  What sets Postcard Academy apart from other travel-focused media is the lens through which Sarah presents her stories. Her narrative exists outside the Eat, Pray, Love trope, the lost soul that - for better or worse - has become the defacto persona of many female-driven works. Instead, she provides an alternative viewpoint, a fun and informative guide for the average traveler. “I like to feature women, and we talk about their adopted city and how they made it happen and get their insider food and culture tips.”  *Want the details on Sarah's *secret* show? Then, you know where to go: Podcast Envy! Links, resources, opportunities... You can find them here: http://www.thecreativeimpostor.com/114 *** Learn to Launch a Podcast of Your Own Thursday October 1st @ 6:30pm CDT This is the last launch class of the year! Limited to 9 students. Tickets via Eventbrite Connect with Sarah Website Postcard Academy  Podcasting Step-By-Step Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Connect with me Join our twice weekly Community Zoom sessions for free! Get the details inside The Creative Impostor Collective on Mighty Networks! Email or Voice  andrea@thecreativeimpostor.com Facebook Page @thecreativeimpostor Instagram: @thecreativeimpostor LinkedIn: @andreaklunder (I only accept connections from people I actually know, so include a message to say you're a Creative Impostor listener.) LOVE The Creative Impostor? I would LOVE if you could leave me a short & sweet review:http://www.ratethispodcast.com/creative. Send me a screenshot and I might even read it on a future episode.

Episode 072. “You're podcasting to make a difference and to have meaning in people's lives." ~Sarah Mikutel When you have two podcasts, you get to orchestrate your own crossover of sorts. And I’m in good company! My guest for this show (and an upcoming episode of The Creative Impostor) is fellow multi-podcaster Sarah Mikutel, the creator of Postcard Academy and Podcasting Step-By-Step. She’s also got a *secret* third show because overachiever...more on that pod later. When Sarah got down to planning both shows (and that secret third), she followed the wise counsel of podcasting goddess Elsie Escobar: create what you want to hear in the world. It’s advice Sarah applies to the evolution process as well, that freedom to tweak or make wholesale changes as her interests expand beyond a show’s original concept. I hear rumbles of concern out there. “What if some audience members don’t like the changes and drop off!?” Sarah says vanity metrics be damned! There are worse fates than producing a show you thoroughly enjoy listening to. Pre-COVID, she was busy enjoying her enviable expat life in England. Working overseas meant easy access to bucket list travel destinations - and numerous vacation days with which to explore them. What she didn’t have was the patience for endless blog scrolling or disappointing guidebook recs. So, she rolled the small amount of professional experience she’d gained at her job into Postcard Academy. Most recently, Sarah’s taken on the business side of her craft, offering insights and tutorials via Podcasting Step-By-Step. Where the travel show is a pure labor of love, ...Step-By-Step dovetails with her consulting service.  As for that *secret* third show… you’ll have to listen in to find out the intriguing, super-niche details! Get the full show notes, my favorite podcasting resources, and find out my podcasting celebrity personality results at: http://www.thecreativeimpostor.com/podenvy072   Podcast Angels: Let’s work together on your show! Find out you can partner with The Creative Impostor Studios Book a complimentary consultation to share your vision and learn about our services. Craft & Culture via Patreon Featuring outtakes from my conversation with Sarah... Craft & Culture is my exclusive membership space for both current and aspiring podcasters featuring my super secret Podcast Envy Craft & Culture podcast! You can get started for just $5/month and ask me your podcasting questions, which I will answer in audio form or upgrade to VIP for even more face time with me. http://www.thecreativeimpostor.com/craftandculture Libsyn Podcast Hosting Service The best! Get your first month free when you use promo code: envy. http://www.libsyn.com Catch their Podcasting Quickstart Webinar: https://www.crowdcast.io/libsyn Connect with Sarah Website Postcard Academy  Podcasting Step-By-Step Instagram Facebook LinkedIn *super secret* podcast Connect with me Email andrea@thecreativeimpostor.com Facebook Group The Creative Impostor Facebook Page @thecreativeimpostor Instagram: @thecreativeimpostor LinkedIn: @andreaklunder (I only accept connections from people I actually know, so include a message to say you're a Podcast Envy listener.) *** Do you LOVE Podcast Envy? What's your fave episode? What have you learned? What mistakes have I saved you from making with your show? I'd LOVE if you would leave me a review. Here's where you can do that: http://www.ratethispodcast.com/envy Peace, love & podcasting, Andrea Klunder, Your Podcast Boss Sarah's cover photo in Athens, Greece by https://michellemartinphotography.com

Bulgaria — is it on your travel list? It’s on mine, especially its capital, Sofia, a city rich in Roman ruins and Byzantine architecture.If you’re a history lover who enjoys affordable travel and getting off the beaten path, then Bulgaria might be the place for you.Joining me today is Stephanie Craig, a travel writer and an American expat/nomad based in Sofia.She’s also one half of the Rick Steves Over Brunch podcast and former host of The History Fangirl podcast.In this episode of the Postcard Academy, Stephanie shares how she ended up in Sofia and why it’s better suited toward digital nomads surfing the Schengen Zone than expats (if you don’t know what the Schengen Zone is, you can go back and listen to the deep dive I did).Then Stephanie is going to take us on a whistle stop tour of Bulgarian history, which is filled with one occupation after another. We also talk about some must-see historical sites in Sofia, including:St. George RotundaBoyana ChurchPark VranaCentral Mineral BathsYou might hear a baby squeak or two in this episode as Stephanie is holding her little one throughout our discussion. He’s very cute.Enjoy the show. *************I'm your host, Sarah Mikutel. Thank you for spending some time with me today. Have you ever thought of starting a podcast yourself? Find out how I can help you.

Are you feeling the need for some community right now? Some levity? Some fun? I have created a Facebook Group for us called Live Abroad and Love It (our first party is in a few days — details below).I have made some incredible friendships through this podcast and I want to meet more of you.This group is for serious travelers. The kind who would pack up and move to a new country for a few months or maybe forever.Whether you are a current or aspiring expat, nomad, and/or location independent entrepreneur, the Live Abroad and Love It Facebook Group is a place for us to connect and inspire each other to live our location independent travel dreams. We can share stories of the new cities in which we’re living. Share online business advice to help other location independent entrepreneurs. Ask logistical questions on how to make a move abroad happen. I’d really love this to be an inclusive place where we can lift each other up and help each other live a more freedom-filled life.I know social media can be annoying and a lot of us are trying to get away from it. But as many of us are still locked down during the pandemic, and a number of you have said your craving some human connection, so I’m going to host some online events — and perhaps even in-person retreats when we can travel again. Join the first online partyThe first online event is this Sunday at 2 p.m. Eastern Time, which is 7 p.m. London Time. We will be doing online vision boards, also known as dream boards. I’ve never done one myself, but they are supposed to be fun and visual ways to set goals for yourself. If you would like to join this virtual party, go to postcardacademy.co/party and I’ll send you the information.

Let’s move to Mexico, shall we? Specifically Playa del Carmen. Great restaurants, bars, beach clubs, and easy access to nature and ancient UNESCO sites. But the best part, is we’ll get to hang out with my friend Cristal, Dyer, also known as the Tofu Traveler, and one of my all-time favorite travel partners.On today’s episode, Cristal shares everything we need to know to have an epic holiday in Playa del Carmen. We might like it so much, we decide to move there, and she gives us great tips for that, too. ***I’m your host, Sarah Mikutel. Did you know I host another show called Podcasting Step by Step? Check it out if you’ve been wanting to start a podcast. Every week, I break down ‘how to podcast’ with a little loving motivation to give you the skills and confidence you need to finally launch that show of your dreams. Ready to start your podcast right now? Check out Podcast Launch Academy. Thank you so much for listening to this show. I know you’re busy and have many listening options, so it means a lot to me that you’re here. You are the best. This podcast is brought to you by Audible. Not a member yet? Postcard Academy listeners can get a FREE audiobook and a 30-day free trial if you sign up viaaudibletrial.com/postcard This podcast is also brought to you by World Nomads. Need simple and flexible travel insurance? Get a cost estimate from World Nomads using their handy calculator at postcardacademy.co/insurance

In the midst of the global pandemic, people are consuming digital content more than ever before. Today I'm joined by Sarah Mikutel, podcast expert and founder of the online course Podcast Launch Academy. She'll share her insights on how to set up an in-demand podcast production service. What are the different types of services you can offer? And how can you make money doing this? The downloads on podcasts are at an all-time high, and this presents a unique opportunity for freelancers to position themselves as podcast producers for a whole variety of businesses!   Guest Biography:   Sarah Mikutel is a globetrotting podcast consultant and founder of the online course Podcast Launch Academy. Her podcasts Podcasting Step by Step and the Postcard Academy, have been named best podcast about podcasting and best travel podcast, respectively. Born and raised in the U.S., Sarah's spent nearly a decade living the expat life in Europe and believes that true independence means the freedom to choose where, when, and how you spend your time and attention. She loves working with fellow citizens of the world who want to use the power of podcasting to connect to their global community and build a brand and business that supports a freedom-based life.   Podcast Outline:   [0:56] Craig introduces us to Sarah Mikutel and the topic of leveraging podcasting as a service for your clients. [2:19] Sarah describes the opportunities opening up in podcasting as a result of the global pandemic and social isolation. She explains how the growth has accelerated recently and how podcasting is as popular or more popular than online video. [5:59] How podcasts fit into our lifestyle and are cross-generational. [6:56] A list of services freelancers could offer in the podcasting space to generate income. Sarah begins by explaining the necessary elements of the best podcasts and how podcasting services are perfect for a VA.   Some Examples of In-Demand Services:   [9:23]  Podcast Editor (audio editing/engineering) - the #1 service people want to outsource from the beginning. Sarah lists the software needed for this role and describes what's involved. Craig stresses how important this role is! [12:11] Show Notes Writers - for those who have a writing background. Sarah describes the different ways you can create show notes and repurpose them. She explains the importance of incorporating SEO for discoverability. [13:40] Social Media - distributing and promoting the podcast to social contacts. Sarah and Craig outline the important elements of this role. [15:29] Podcast Guest Recruiter - a very in-demand niche right now. Craig explains the importance of this role and how it can lead to partnerships. [16:43] Producer/VA - a comprehensive role. Sarah explains what this role entails and how the producer can also send pitches to help podcasters get on other podcasts. [17:12] The best ways for a new VA or freelancer to find podcasting clients. Sarah and Craig explain some key strategies you can use to be proactive and target certain niches. Craig gives an example of a whole realm of people who are prime candidates for podcast services! [21:22] Sarah describes what she does in the podcast education space. She discusses how this is an exciting time of deeper reflection that can benefit our businesses. [23:13] How Freelance University prides itself in presenting opportunities for you to generate income from home right now.   Resources and tools discussed in this episode:   Sarah Mikutel's website: SarahMikutel.com https://sarahmikutel.com/  Online course: Podcast Launch Academy https://sarah-mikutel.mykajabi.com/podcast-launch-academy-1    Podcasts:  Podcasting Step by Step https://sarahmikutel.com/podcasting-step-by-step  Postcard Academy https://postcardacademy.co/    YouTube https://www.youtube.com/  Facebook https://www.facebook.com/  Google https://www.google.com/  Spotify https://www.spotify.com/  Facebook Ads https://www.facebook.com/business/ads  Audacity https://www.audacityteam.org/  Adobe Audition https://www.adobe.com/ca/products/audition/free-trial-download.html  iTunes https://www.apple.com/ca/itunes/    Facebook Groups recommended by Sarah Mikutel:   She Podcasts https://www.facebook.com/groups/shepodcasts/  Podfest https://www.facebook.com/groups/podfest  BuzzSprout Podcast Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/BuzzsproutCommunity/  Podcast Movement https://www.facebook.com/groups/podcastmovement  Podcasters Support Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/podsupportgroup/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/

We’re living through a global pandemic. It's okay to have down days and to be upset about the way things are. None of us want to be locked up in our house or to lose our job.But if we wallow in that negativity for too long, that doesn't mean we're going to get extra days in our life, right? We're not going to get bonus months at the end of our life because we survived lock down. Author Ryan Holiday has a podcast called the Daily Stoic. Lately, he’s been talking about Alive Time versus Dead Time, something writer Robert Greene told him about. According to him, we can spend our time in one of two ways, passively (Dead Time), where we’re just zoning out and letting life happen to us, and actively (Alive Time), where we’re learning, trying new things, and consciously choosing how to spend our time.As the Stoics taught us, we can't control what's going on in the world, but we can control how we react to it. You’ll never get today again -- will you make it matter?*I’m your host, Sarah Mikutel. Did you know I host another show called Podcasting Step by Step? Check it out if you’ve been wanting to start a podcast. Every week, I break down ‘how to podcast’ with a little loving motivation to give you the skills and confidence you need to finally launch that show of your dreams. Ready to start your podcast right now? Check out Podcast Launch Academy. Ready to travel? Get your free guide to cheap airfare. Thank you so much for listening to this show. I know you’re busy and have many listening options, so it means a lot to me that you’re here. You are the best. This podcast is brought to you by Audible. Not a member yet? Postcard Academy listeners can get a FREE audiobook and a 30-day free trial if you sign up viaaudibletrial.com/postcard This podcast is also brought to you by World Nomads. Need simple and flexible travel insurance? Get a cost estimate from World Nomads using their handy calculator at postcardacademy.co/insurance

Wondering how to figure out where to go on your next vacation? Always had moving to a new state or country on your to-do list but feared making it happen?   Sarah Mikutel, hosts of Postcard Academy and Podcasting Step by Step, shares her story and advice on this week's show.    Join the FB group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/anyyounger/

Chances are, at some point in your life you’ve traveled with someone for so long you start to drive each other a little crazy, and you don’t really know why.   Spending every moment together can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be.   Assessments like Myers Briggs can make you a more compassionate person because you learn how we all see the world through a different lens. You start taking things less personally because you realize that people have diverse ways of learning and working, different ranges of how much alone time we need, different ways of organizing ourselves (or not).    On this episode of the Postcard Academy, I’m very happy to be speaking with Caitlin Hawekotte, who is an MBTI® Certified Practitioner, which means that she administers and interprets the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator® assessment to help people discover more about their personality types and preferences.    Understanding your psychological type, and those of others, will make you a better communicator, something that’s very helpful in keeping your sanity while traveling with someone, and also while locked up in quarantine with them due to the COVID-19 coronavirus.    And on that glorious day when we can travel again, you can then take what you learn on today’s podcast about Myers Briggs to make traveling with a friend or partner more enjoyable and stress-free.   Visit postcardacademy.co for show notes.   *** I’m your host, Sarah Mikutel. Did you know I host another show called Podcasting Step by Step? Check it out if you’ve been wanting to start a podcast. Every week, I break down ‘how to podcast’ with a little loving motivation to give you the skills and confidence you need to finally launch that show of your dreams. Ready to start your podcast right now? Check out Podcast Launch Academy.   Ready to travel? Get your free guide to cheap airfare.   Thank you so much for listening to this show. I know you’re busy and have many listening options, so it means a lot to me that you’re here. You are the best.   P.S. Need simple and flexible travel insurance? Get a cost estimate from World Nomads using their handy calculator at postcardacademy.co/insurance

Have you ever thought about starting your own podcast?I've been having a love affair with podcasts ever since I launched mine back in 2012.As you may well know I LOVE podcasting and I am a huge fan of listening to podcasts too.Whenever I listen to other podcasts, it inspires me with ideas of how I do and don't want to do mine.The art of podcasting has taught me so much and as a medium it's a fantastic business tool too.Not other medium allows you to speak directly into the ears of one person at a time and get their undivided attention.Even if you're out running while listening, it's still that one person's voice (or two if it's an interview of joint podcast) speaking directly to you, into your ears.With that in mind I wanted to bring on a guest to the Untapped Podcast who got into podcasting in the last few years, and has started not one podcast, but two!Sarah Mikutel is a globetrotting podcast consultant and founder of the online course Podcast Launch Academy.Her podcasts Podcasting Step by Step and the Postcard Academy, have been named best podcast about podcasting and best travel podcast, respectively!Born and raised in the U.S., Sarah’s spent nearly a decade living the expat life in Europe and believes that true independence means the freedom to choose where, when, and how you spend your time and attention.She loves working with fellow citizens of the world who want to use the power of podcasting to connect to their global community and build a brand and business that supports a freedom-based life.In this episode, Sarah shares:How to start and run a podcast while traveling the worldHow Sarah started podcasting and the key lessons she learnedWhen it comes to decisions, are you a maximizer or a satisficer?Her top tips to start and grow a podcast from scratchCommon podcasting mistakes to avoid when you're starting your podcastPodcast ResourcesVisit sarahmikutel.com for more articles on how to podcast.Say hi to Sarah on Instagram!Check out her Podcast Launch Academy - a self-paced online course designed to help you overcome technophobia and podcast overwhelm so you can develop a world-class podcast that shares your message, connects you to your global community, and helps you build a brand and business that gives you the freedom to live life on your terms.Listen to my previous podcast: How To Start a Podcast That MattersRead my post What 7 Years of Podcasting Has Taught Me See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

The first time I attended a podcast conference, I left feeling kind of ‘meh. Don’t think I need to do this again.’    I realized later that I didn’t really think about what I wanted to get out of the podcast conference before I went. I knew I wanted to attend sessions and meet fellow podcasters, but I didn’t have a plan (I’m a fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants kind of gal).    So...I asked my friend Steve Stewart, podcast editor extraordinaire and conference lover, to come on Podcasting Step by Step to discuss how we can get our money’s worth out of conferences, and not leave feeling like we’ve wasted our time.    Steve is hosting the first Podcast Editors Conference March 6! *** Ready to start your own show? Download my free guide: “8 Mistakes New Podcasters Make and How to Fix Them.”    Looking for a podcast media host? Use my Libsyn affiliate code POSTCARD to get the rest of this month for free and next month free.    I’m your podcast launch consultant, Sarah Mikutel. If you’d like to learn more about me, you can check out my other podcast, Postcard Academy travel podcast. This travel podcast is for the ‘experiences not things’ kind of person who believes travel goes deeper than a fantastic meal (though that is pretty great). Every week, I interview people who packed up everything to start a new adventure in another part of the world. You’ll learn how they did it and get their best insider food and culture tips.    Thank you so much for listening to Podcasting Step by Step. I know you’re busy and have many listening options, so it means a lot to me that you’re here. You are the best.

How wonderful would it feel if you actually got stuff done? If you could make real progress on your eternally long to-do list?    If you’re feeling forever busy but aren’t achieving the goals you’re setting for yourself, stay tuned as I walk you through your 10-step productivity plan for overcoming overwhelm so you can live a life you love.   Visit postcardacademy.co for show notes.   *** I’m your host, Sarah Mikutel. Did you know I host another show called Podcasting Step by Step? Check it out if you’ve been wanting to start a podcast. Every week, I break down ‘how to podcast’ with a little loving motivation to give you the skills and confidence you need to finally launch that show of your dreams. Ready to start your podcast right now? Check out Podcast Launch Academy.   Ready to travel? Get your free guide to cheap airfare.   Thank you so much for listening to this show. I know you’re busy and have many listening options, so it means a lot to me that you’re here. You are the best.   This podcast is brought to you by Audible. Not a member yet? Postcard Academy listeners can get a FREE audiobook and a 30-day free trial if you sign up via audibletrial.com/postcard   This podcast is also brought to you by World Nomads. Need simple and flexible travel insurance? Get a cost estimate from World Nomads using their handy calculator at postcardacademy.co/insurance

As someone who has podcasted from hostels, hotels, and bare-bones medieval apartments, I’m proof that you can record a quality podcast from anywhere. Want to take your show on the road? On this episode of Podcasting Step by Step, I walk you though my 5-step plan for recording while traveling.   Visit sarahmikutel.com for show notes, including on-the-road podcast equipment recommendations.   *** Ready to start your own show? Download my free guide: “8 Mistakes New Podcasters Make and How to Fix Them.”    Looking for a podcast media host? Use my Libsyn affiliate code POSTCARD to get the rest of this month for free and next month free.    I’m your podcast launch consultant, Sarah Mikutel. If you’d like to learn more about me, you can check out my other podcast, Postcard Academy travel podcast. This travel podcast is for the ‘experiences not things’ kind of person who believes travel goes deeper than a fantastic meal (though that is pretty great). Every week, I interview people who packed up everything to start a new adventure in another part of the world. You’ll learn how they did it and get their best insider food and culture tips.    Thank you so much for listening to Podcasting Step by Step. I know you’re busy and have many listening options, so it means a lot to me that you’re here. You are the best.

Today, you’ll learn how to create ads that people actually want to listen to, and that will motivate your listeners to buy. Because if you want to keep that sponsor you landed, you have to be able to demonstrate that you’re converting for them.   In this episode, my friend Lisa Orkin of Lisa Orkin Creative breaks down her storytelling formula for audio ads. You’ll learn how to: craft ads that keep people hooked  talk about benefits sound engaging and not scripted   Through her company Radio Ranch, Lisa has produced thousands of podcast and radio ads. She is also a podcaster and her latest show is called Project Woo Woo, which you’ll hear about.    I love Lisa’s playfulness and positive vibe. You’re going to get a ton of value out of this episode. Now onto my conversation with Lisa.    *** Visit sarahmikutel.com for more resources on how to podcast.   Ready to start your own show? Download my free guide: “8 Mistakes New Podcasters Make and How to Fix Them.”    Looking for a podcast media host? Use my Libsyn affiliate code POSTCARD to get the rest of this month for free and next month free.    I’m your podcast launch consultant, Sarah Mikutel. If you’d like to learn more about me, you can check out my other podcast, Postcard Academy travel podcast. This travel podcast is for the ‘experiences not things’ kind of person who believes travel goes deeper than a fantastic meal (though that is pretty great). Every week, I interview people who packed up everything to start a new adventure in another part of the world. You’ll learn how they did it and get their best insider food and culture tips.    Thank you so much for listening to Podcasting Step by Step. I know you’re busy and have many listening options, so it means a lot to me that you’re here. You are the best.    

In March, I will be speaking at Podfest in Orlando, Florida,. I would love to see you there — and, you have the opportunity to attend the conference for free!! I’m giving away two tickets to Podcasting Step by Step listeners.   Enter to win by 4 p.m. (EST) Feb. 5, 2020   *** Visit sarahmikutel.com for more resources on how to podcast.   Ready to start your own show? Download my free guide: “8 Mistakes New Podcasters Make and How to Fix Them.”    Looking for a podcast media host? Use my Libsyn affiliate code POSTCARD to get the rest of this month for free and next month free.    I’m your podcast launch consultant, Sarah Mikutel. If you’d like to learn more about me, you can check out my other podcast, Postcard Academy travel podcast. This travel podcast is for the ‘experiences not things’ kind of person who believes travel goes deeper than a fantastic meal (though that is pretty great). Every week, I interview people who packed up everything to start a new adventure in another part of the world. You’ll learn how they did it and get their best insider food and culture tips.    Thank you so much for listening to Podcasting Step by Step. I know you’re busy and have many listening options, so it means a lot to me that you’re here. You are the best.    

Postcard Academy listeners ask me how they can live abroad if they don’t have Italian blood, a foreign partner to marry, or a global corporation sponsoring them.    I believe the easiest way to make a life abroad and/or a location independent life happen for you is to create your own job that you can do from anywhere, and I especially love online courses as a business.    Natalie Sisson, who you heard on the ‘How to Design Your Ideal Life’ episode is back to talk about how to create an online course.    Natalie is the author of the bestselling book The Suitcase Entrepreneur and The Freedom Plan. She’s also founder of the live training program: Launch Your Damn Course Accelerator, which begins it’s next round Jan. 27, 2020. So sign up now if you want in.   Show notes at sarahmikutel.com.    *** I’m your host, Sarah Mikutel. Did you know I host another show called Podcasting Step by Step? Check it out if you’ve been wanting to start a podcast. Every week, I break down ‘how to podcast’ with a little loving motivation to give you the skills and confidence you need to finally launch that show of your dreams. Ready to start your podcast right now? Check out Podcast Launch Academy.

The most profitable way to make money through podcasting, for most people, is to promote your own products and services on your show, and what’s a better business than an online course?   I’m an online learning addict. I love taking courses online and even created my own: Podcast Launch Academy.    My guest today is going to teach you how you can start your own online course, which you can use to sponsor your podcast.   Natalie Sisson is the author of the bestselling book The Suitcase Entrepreneur and The Freedom Plan. She’s also founder of the live training program: Launch Your Damn Course Accelerator, which begins it’s next round Jan. 27, 2020.   I interviewed Natalie about online courses for the Postcard Academy podcast, but thought you’d get a ton of value from it, because, as I said, being your own podcast sponsor and promoting your own business is a lot more financially rewarding than having other companies sponsor you.   Another reason that I love online courses is that they’re the best way to support a location independent life, something that my listeners over at the Postcard Academy are very interested in.    Enjoy the show!  

We all want to make it as easy as possible for people to discover our podcasts. So how can we make sure the search engines find us? How can we “optimize our podcasts?”    My guest today says that when it comes to search engine optimization (SEO), we should be less concerned about the robots and more focused on people.    I’m speaking with Daniel J. Lewis, host of the Audacity to Podcast, on how we can integrate SEO tactics into our content in a human-centric way to serve and grow our audiences.    If you’re unsure what SEO tactics are, no worries, we will break this down for you in today’s episode. But essentially, SEO when done right, increases your visibility and gets your content in front of the right people.    Daniel is founder of the online course SEO for Podcasters, as well as the online community Podcaster’s Society, which is open to all podcasters after they’ve published their first episode.   *** Visit sarahmikutel.com for more resources on how to podcast.   Ready to start your own show? Download my free guide: “8 Mistakes New Podcasters Make and How to Fix Them.”    Looking for a podcast media host? Use my Libsyn affiliate code POSTCARD to get the rest of this month for free and next month free.    I’m your podcast launch consultant, Sarah Mikutel. If you’d like to learn more about me, you can check out my other podcast, Postcard Academy travel podcast. This travel podcast is for the ‘experiences not things’ kind of person who believes travel goes deeper than a fantastic meal (though that is pretty great). Every week, I interview people who packed up everything to start a new adventure in another part of the world. You’ll learn how they did it and get their best insider food and culture tips.    Thank you so much for listening to Podcasting Step by Step. I know you’re busy and have many listening options, so it means a lot to me that you’re here. You are the best.    

Life is all fun and games when people are five-starring your podcast all over the place. But what happens when someone one-stars your show or leaves you a bad review in Apple Podcasts? Well, it feels bad, of course. But we can transform that negative energy from random haters into something that benefits us. Learn how in this episode (sarahmikutel.com for show notes) *** Also, visit sarahmikutel.com for more resources on how to podcast.   Ready to start your own show? Download my free guide: “8 Mistakes New Podcasters Make and How to Fix Them.”    Looking for a podcast media host? Use my Libsyn affiliate code POSTCARD to get the rest of this month for free and next month free.    I’m your podcast launch consultant, Sarah Mikutel. If you’d like to learn more about me, you can check out my other podcast, Postcard Academy travel podcast. This travel podcast is for the ‘experiences not things’ kind of person who believes travel goes deeper than a fantastic meal (though that is pretty great). Every week, I interview people who packed up everything to start a new adventure in another part of the world. You’ll learn how they did it and get their best insider food and culture tips.    Thank you so much for listening to Podcasting Step by Step. I know you’re busy and have many listening options, so it means a lot to me that you’re here. You are the best.  

Podcasting is a fantastic way to grow our brands and businesses, but you can podcast just for fun. In fact, no matter what the goal of your podcast is, podcasting shouldn’t feel like a burden, but it can if we fall out of alignment about our podcast’s purpose and start going through the motions of what we’re ‘supposed to do.’    My guest today has been podcasting as a form of self expression and discovery for years, and she shares experiences that can help us feel more comfortable exploring who we are and getting over the perfectionist roadblocks that hold us back.   Karly Nimmo has several successful podcasts under her belt, including Karlosophies. She’s a serial entrepreneur, a rebel, mad creator, connector and communicator who helps people stop playing the role of who they think they need to be, and express who they REALLY are to the world. And she does this through both podcast and life coaching, or guidance as she likes to say.   Karly recently ended one of her podcasts, Make Some Noise, after she felt like it served its purpose and she was ready to move on to something else. But she didn’t podfade, that is, she didn’t disappear with no explanation. In her final episode, she said goodbye to her audience in a very respectful way.    In this episode, we will learn more about Karly and how she’s been able to get to know, like, and trust herself over the years, and how she helps clients do the same. And we’ll talk about the evolution of our podcasts, following our intuition, and how to say goodbye with grace when it’s time to end a podcast. *** Ready to start your own show? Download my free guide: “8 Mistakes New Podcasters Make and How to Fix Them.”    Looking for a podcast media host? Use my Libsyn affiliate code POSTCARD to get the rest of this month for free and next month free.    I’m your podcast launch consultant, Sarah Mikutel. If you’d like to learn more about me, you can check out my other podcast, Postcard Academy travel podcast. This travel podcast is for the ‘experiences not things’ kind of person who believes travel goes deeper than a fantastic meal (though that is pretty great). Every week, I interview people who packed up everything to start a new adventure in another part of the world. You’ll learn how they did it and get their best insider food and culture tips.    Thank you so much for listening to Podcasting Step by Step. I know you’re busy and have many listening options, so it means a lot to me that you’re here. You are the best.

The other day someone told me that New Year’s depresses them. Another year gone by. That’s one way to look at it. But, a happier, more satisfying way to approach the New Year is to plan how we want to enjoy the rest of the years we have left.    This year on the Postcard Academy, I will be sharing more episodes on how we can live our best lives, and more specifics on how we can make living abroad and living a location independent life a reality for us.    But we don’t want to live just any life. We want to live our ideal lives, which is why I think it’s important to re-listen to my episode with Natalie Sisson: How to Design Your Ideal Life.    Natalie will be back on the show very soon to share even more specifics on how to make your dream life happen. Until then, listen to this episode and devote some time this week to planning out what you want out of this year. Let’s make it happen in 2020 :)  *** I’m your host, Sarah Mikutel. Did you know I host another show called Podcasting Step by Step? Check it out if you’ve been wanting to start a podcast. Every week, I break down ‘how to podcast’ with a little loving motivation to give you the skills and confidence you need to finally launch that show of your dreams.   Ready to travel? Get your free guide to cheap airfare.   Thank you so much for listening to this show. I know you’re busy and have many listening options, so it means a lot to me that you’re here. You are the best.   This podcast is brought to you by Audible. Not a member yet? Postcard Academy listeners can get a FREE audiobook and a 30-day free trial if you sign up via audibletrial.com/postcard   This podcast is also brought to you by World Nomads. Need simple and flexible travel insurance? Get a cost estimate from World Nomads using their handy calculator at postcardacademy.co/insurance    

How often do you listen to podcasts? Are you what Edison Research calls a ‘super listener?’ That is someone who listens to five or more hours of podcasts every week.    I definitely fall into that category. I listen to podcasts when I’m falling asleep, when I wake up, when I’m cooking, and almost always when I’m walking out the door. Are you the same way?   Is this healthy? The perfect way to always be learning? Or are we overdoing it, leaving no empty space for our minds to rest?   Something happened this summer that made me question my habits and how I interact with and experience the world. I recorded an audio diary about it, which I’ll share with you here.   But spoiler: We need to be more present in this world. More attuned to nature and each other, and that means sometimes we have to take off our headphones. *** You're invited to join the Podcasting Step by Step Facebook Group!   Also, visit sarahmikutel.com for more resources on how to podcast.   Ready to start your own show? Download my free guide: “8 Mistakes New Podcasters Make and How to Fix Them.”    Looking for a podcast media host? Use my Libsyn affiliate code POSTCARD to get the rest of this month for free and next month free.    I’m your podcast launch consultant, Sarah Mikutel. If you’d like to learn more about me, you can check out my other podcast, Postcard Academy travel podcast. This travel podcast is for the ‘experiences not things’ kind of person who believes travel goes deeper than a fantastic meal (though that is pretty great). Every week, I interview people who packed up everything to start a new adventure in another part of the world. You’ll learn how they did it and get their best insider food and culture tips.    Thank you so much for listening to Podcasting Step by Step. I know you’re busy and have many listening options, so it means a lot to me that you’re here. You are the best.  

Happy holidays! How are you celebrating?   I’m visiting my family in the States but always love hearing how people are enjoying the holidays in other parts of the globe. What are the traditions? What are the foods they’re eating?   So, I invited some of my favorite guests on this show to call in and tell me about Christmas in their adopted cities.    So tuck in, pour yourself some hot chocolate — or maybe something cold and fizzy if you’re somewhere warm — and enjoy the show.  *** I’m your host, Sarah Mikutel. Did you know I host another show called Podcasting Step by Step? Check it out if you’ve been wanting to start a podcast. Every week, I break down ‘how to podcast’ with a little loving motivation to give you the skills and confidence you need to finally launch that show of your dreams.   Ready to travel? Get your free guide to cheap airfare.   Thank you so much for listening to this show. I know you’re busy and have many listening options, so it means a lot to me that you’re here. You are the best.   This podcast is brought to you by Audible. Not a member yet? Postcard Academy listeners can get a FREE audiobook and a 30-day free trial if you sign up via audibletrial.com/postcard   This podcast is also brought to you by World Nomads. Need simple and flexible travel insurance? Get a cost estimate from World Nomads using their handy calculator at postcardacademy.co/insurance    

If you’re a long-time listener, you’ve heard me mention Sarajevo before and how it completely transfixed me. I had the same feeling as when I saw the Roman forum for the first time. There was just something about the vibe of this place that transported me.    I became obsessed with Sarajevo and its history and felt so embarrassed that I knew so little about the war in the ‘90s before I traveled to Bosnia. I had a flicker of a memory of seeing an article about it when I was a kid and being outraged no one was helping the Bosnian people…but then that memory faded. Replaced by other atrocities in the world.   The main reason I put off doing a Sarajevo episode for so long is that there’s so much I wanted to get right, so many stories to tell. I wanted to share the whole history of the ‘90s. And someday when I have more time and resources, I’d love to do that. But for now, I can share the BBC documentary Death of Yugoslavia.    Today, I’ll be focusing more on the wonderful things you can see and do in present-day Sarajevo. My friend, Cat Norman Tahirović, a photographer who has made Bosnia her home, shares all her best travel recommendations.   Enjoy the show! *** I’m your host, Sarah Mikutel. Did you know I host another show called Podcasting Step by Step? Check it out if you’ve been wanting to start a podcast. Every week, I break down ‘how to podcast’ with a little loving motivation to give you the skills and confidence you need to finally launch that show of your dreams.   Ready to travel? Get your free guide to cheap airfare.   Thank you so much for listening to this show. I know you’re busy and have many listening options, so it means a lot to me that you’re here. You are the best.   This podcast is brought to you by Audible. Not a member yet? Postcard Academy listeners can get a FREE audiobook and a 30-day free trial if you sign up via audibletrial.com/postcard   This podcast is also brought to you by World Nomads. Need simple and flexible travel insurance? Get a cost estimate from World Nomads using their handy calculator at postcardacademy.co/insurance    

’Tis the season for gift ideas for podcasters. You’ll see lots of suggestions for mics and mixers, and while these are fun — who doesn’t love unwrapping something new and shiny during the holidays — I want to give you something even more valuable.     In a special episode of Podcasting Step by Step, I asked some of my favorite podcasters to share an audio gift with you: Their best podcasting advice.   I asked them to answer this question: “What do you wish someone would have told you when you first started out? What have you learned that’s made all the difference?”    Whether you’ve been podcasting for years, or haven’t launched yet, I know you will hear something in this episode that can improve your show and increase your love for podcasting.  From marketing to mindset, we’ve packed a lot in here.   Huge thanks to the podcasters who shared such brilliant words of wisdom in this episode. I subscribe to, and recommend, all of their shows, and encourage you to check them out. Links to their shows can be found on sarahmikutel.com   *** Ready to start your own show? Download my free guide: “8 Mistakes New Podcasters Make and How to Fix Them.”    Looking for a podcast media host? Use my Libsyn affiliate code POSTCARD to get the rest of this month for free and next month free.    I’m your podcast launch consultant, Sarah Mikutel. If you’d like to learn more about me, you can check out my other podcast, Postcard Academy travel podcast. This travel podcast is for the ‘experiences not things’ kind of person who believes travel goes deeper than a fantastic meal (though that is pretty great). Every week, I interview people who packed up everything to start a new adventure in another part of the world. You’ll learn how they did it and get their best insider food and culture tips.    Thank you so much for listening to Podcasting Step by Step. I know you’re busy and have many listening options, so it means a lot to me that you’re here. You are the best.

You might be wondering, “Is anyone listening to podcasts over Christmas? Will my show suffer if I don’t put out an episode on Thanksgiving?”   Yes, people are still listening to podcasts during the holidays. And because so many podcasters do take holiday breaks, if you publish an episode, it will have more space to shine.    But your show won’t suffer if you take a week off, and this might actually be a good idea.   To minimize stress, make a plan now about how you want to tackle podcasting during the holidays. In this episode, I give you five options to consider. (sarahmikutel.com for show notes).    *** You're invited to join the Podcasting Step by Step Facebook Group!   Also, visit sarahmikutel.com for more resources on how to podcast, including my free guide: “8 Mistakes New Podcasters Make and How to Fix Them.”    Looking for a podcast media host? Use my Libsyn affiliate code POSTCARD to get the rest of this month for free and next month free.    I’m your podcast launch consultant, Sarah Mikutel. If you’d like to learn more about me, you can check out my other podcast, Postcard Academy travel podcast. This travel podcast is for the ‘experiences not things’ kind of person who believes travel goes deeper than a fantastic meal (though that is pretty great). Every week, I interview people who packed up everything to start a new adventure in another part of the world. You’ll learn how they did it and get their best insider food and culture tips.    Thank you so much for listening to Podcasting Step by Step. I know you’re busy and have many listening options, so it means a lot to me that you’re here. You are the best.

Back by popular demand...   Happy Thanksgiving, U.S. listeners! This year about 54 million Americans will travel more than 50 miles during Thanksgiving, and most of these people will be driving, estimates AAA. However, it’s a myth that the day before Thanksgiving is the busiest travel day of the year (that honor actually goes to several weekends throughout the summer). But that’s not the only Thanksgiving myth out there. (Check out these 10 surprising Thanksgiving facts).   Don’t worry, this episode is not about tearing down this revered holiday. Spoiler: Thanksgiving really is a tradition rooted in gratitude and peace. But it’s also a holiday full of surprises that most people don’t know about, which is why I’m happy to share today’s interview with Melanie Kirkpatrick, author of Thanksgiving: The Holiday at the Heart of the American Experience.   We discuss the history of this very American tradition, including why the Pilgrims really came to the New World (it wasn’t to flee religious persecution, if that’s what you’re thinking).   Wherever you’re from, this week I hope you enjoy good food in great company.     I’m your host, Sarah Mikutel, and you can find travel guides and inspiration at  postcardacademy.co Ready to book your trip? Sign up for my newsletter and get your free guide to cheap airfare.    Thank you so much for listening to this show. I know you’re busy and have many listening options, so it means a lot to me that you’re here. You are the best.   This podcast is brought to you by Audible. Not a member yet? Postcard Academy listeners can get a FREE audiobook and a 30-day free trial if you sign up via audibletrial.com/postcard   This podcast is also brought to you by World Nomads. Need simple and flexible travel insurance? Get a cost estimate from World Nomads using their handy calculator at postcardacademy.co/insurance

The Postcard Academy has gone bi-weekly this season as I prepare to launch The Podcast Launch Academy, the ultimate online podcasting course that has been my dream for awhile. But setting this up took a lot longer than I thought it would! I realize now this is mostly because I have been approaching starting this business with a ‘maximizer mindset.’   I’m reading 168 Hours by Laura Vanderkam in it she talks about the difference between maximizers and satisficers.   Maximizers want the best of everything. Satisficers make decisions. They give themselves a few minutes to make a choice and then they go with it. While maximizers will spend weeks trying to decide things like, “What’s the best email service provider? What’s the best website host?” And even when we know our stuff, we’ll go research it again for hours because we want everything to be perfect.   But striving for perfection is never satisfying because it doesn’t lead us anywhere. We just spin our wheels instead of moving. So, in life I aim to get better at making quick decisions instead of over-analyzing things.   Another realization I’ve had is that we’ll never be 100% ready to start something big. Anything worth doing is going to make you nervous, and you just need to jump in and start when you’re scared.   I kept setting launch dates for my course — and then I’d let them slip. I didn’t feel ready. There was so much more to do. I almost did it this time, too, but I stopped myself and made a public announcement that I was launching Podcast Launch Academy on November 19, 2019. I said it out loud to other people and that accountability has made this my most productive week of the year.   Having a hard deadline means certain things need to get done everyday to make it happen. And they’re happening.   When we don’t give ourselves real time limits for projects — big or small — we let time expand and add in all these extra tasks and research that we don’t actually need. Maximizers are so guilty of this. That’s what leads to those gross feelings at the end of a Saturday when we feel like we’ve spent all day working hard on a personal project, but we’ve got nothing to show for it. Because we fell into Maximizer perfectionist spin, and instead of taking action, we go back into research mode.   I did the same thing when I started podcasting, and that’s the primary reason I created a podcasting course — to give others the roadmap I didn’t have to make easy decisions that will help them create a show that listeners love.   To kick off Podcast Launch Academy, I’m hosting a free podcast masterclass. Sign up at sarahmikutel.com/masterclass.

Last night I was listening to one of my favorite podcasts, Speak Up Storytelling, hosted by Matthew Dicks, who you heard on the How to Tell Better Stories on Your Podcast episode of this show, and he revealed a very hilarious secret. Hilarious now, but the story he told was something that he buried for a really long time (it involves an orange thong, awkward dancing, and McDonalds).   Matthew has won many many storytelling championships, authored several books, including Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life through the Power of Storytelling. And he’s got a new novel out: Twenty-one Truths About Love.   I asked Matthew if I could share his secret story with you and he said yes. I’m sharing it not only because listening to him is always a masterclass in great storytelling, but because I also want you to hear his commentary on how doing this thing that scared him set him free, he offers some really powerful realizations and takeaways.    We don’t have to reveal our deepest secrets or greatest shames on our podcasts, but I hope the story you hear from Matthew today inspires you to take action on something you’ve been putting off because you were afraid of what someone else might think.    *** You're invited to join the Podcasting Step by Step Facebook Group!   Also, visit sarahmikutel.com for more resources on how to podcast.   Ready to start your own show? Download my free guide: “8 Mistakes New Podcasters Make and How to Fix Them.”    Looking for a podcast media host? Use my Libsyn affiliate code POSTCARD to get the rest of this month for free and next month free.    I’m your podcast launch consultant, Sarah Mikutel. If you’d like to learn more about me, you can check out my other podcast, Postcard Academy travel podcast. This travel podcast is for the ‘experiences not things’ kind of person who believes travel goes deeper than a fantastic meal (though that is pretty great). Every week, I interview people who packed up everything to start a new adventure in another part of the world. You’ll learn how they did it and get their best insider food and culture tips.    Thank you so much for listening to Podcasting Step by Step. I know you’re busy and have many listening options, so it means a lot to me that you’re here. You are the best.  

When you’re traveling, do you open yourself up to new experiences, including talking to new people? Do you do the same at home, or does talking to strangers suddenly feel a little crazy?    According to science, we’d be living healthier, happier lives if we maintained the sense of openness and adventure we experience while traveling to other places.    On the Postcard Academy podcast, I share what happened when a researcher forced strangers to talk on a train, and play you an audio diary I recorded this summer after a chance encounter on a bus in Croatia changed my life.   I’m your host, Sarah Mikutel. Did you know I host another show called Podcasting Step by Step? Check it out if you’ve been wanting to start a podcast. Every week, I break down ‘how to podcast’ with a little loving motivation to give you the skills and confidence you need to finally launch that show of your dreams.   Ready to travel? Get your free guide to cheap airfare.   Thank you so much for listening to this show. I know you’re busy and have many listening options, so it means a lot to me that you’re here. You are the best.   This podcast is brought to you by Audible. Not a member yet? Postcard Academy listeners can get a FREE audiobook and a 30-day free trial if you sign up via audibletrial.com/postcard   This podcast is also brought to you by World Nomads. Need simple and flexible travel insurance? Get a cost estimate from World Nomads using their handy calculator at postcardacademy.co/insurance  

Turning your podcast into a book is one way to monetize your show while growing your influence, so why not plan for that from the beginning? On Podcasting Step by Step, I share how you can map out an entire year’s worth of podcast content in an hour, which can then be repurposed into blogs, social media posts, books, and more. Visit sarahmikutel.com for show notes.   *** You're invited to join the Podcasting Step by Step Facebook Group!   Also, visit sarahmikutel.com for more resources on how to podcast.   Ready to start your own show? Download my free guide: “8 Mistakes New Podcasters Make and How to Fix Them.”    Looking for a podcast media host? Use my Libsyn affiliate code POSTCARD to get the rest of this month for free and next month free.    I’m your podcast launch consultant, Sarah Mikutel. If you’d like to learn more about me, you can check out my other podcast, Postcard Academy travel podcast. This travel podcast is for the ‘experiences not things’ kind of person who believes travel goes deeper than a fantastic meal (though that is pretty great). Every week, I interview people who packed up everything to start a new adventure in another part of the world. You’ll learn how they did it and get their best insider food and culture tips.    Thank you so much for listening to Podcasting Step by Step. I know you’re busy and have many listening options, so it means a lot to me that you’re here. You are the best.

Believe it or not, Niagara Falls is wine country. “We’re on the same parallel as Northern California, so it's perfect weather conditions for wine,” says American expat Andrea Jones. “We have a lot of wineries just 28 minutes north of Niagara Falls in Niagara-on-the-Lake.”    Andrea started out life in Miami, then moved up to Atlanta, and now she finds herself living in a small Canadian 15 minutes away from Niagara Falls. She ended up in Fort Erie after meeting her Canadian husband on YouTube!   On this episode of the Postcard Academy, learn more about Andrea’s modern romance and hear her favorite things to drink, see, and do in Niagara Falls (visit postcardacademy.co for show notes).   I’m your host, Sarah Mikutel. Did you know I host another show called Podcasting Step by Step? Check it out if you’ve been wanting to start a podcast. Every week, I break down ‘how to podcast’ with a little loving motivation to give you the skills and confidence you need to finally launch that show of your dreams.   Ready to travel? Get your free guide to cheap airfare.   Thank you so much for listening to this show. I know you’re busy and have many listening options, so it means a lot to me that you’re here. You are the best.   This podcast is brought to you by Audible. Not a member yet? Postcard Academy listeners can get a FREE audiobook and a 30-day free trial if you sign up via audibletrial.com/postcard   This podcast is also brought to you by World Nomads. Need simple and flexible travel insurance? Get a cost estimate from World Nomads using their handy calculator at postcardacademy.co/insurance

When I hear people ask podcasters what their proudest, most satisfying achievement has been in podcasting, they never say ‘money,’ or ‘popularity,’ or ‘I get to be the boss.’ They tell stories of listeners writing in to them thanking them for saving their lives. For helping them to feel less alone. For motivating them to try something new or to get out of a bad situation.    People today feel more alone than ever. In fact, Yale Professor Laurie Santos, and host of the Happiness Lab podcast, says feelings of loneliness have doubled since the 1980s and that 60 percent of college students in the U.S. say they feel very lonely most of the time. The negative health consequences of this are equal to smoking 15 cigarettes a day!    People are desperate for to feel part of something, and I believe that’s why they are flocking to podcasts.    This year, 32 percent of Americans say they listen to podcasts monthly, up from 26 percent in 2018, the largest year-on-year jump since Edison Research started tracking this data. 22 percent listen weekly, up from 17 percent in 2018. This is the largest jump since Edison started putting out its Podcast Consumer study in 2013.   We are so hungry for connection and podcasts are bringing us together. First through our shows themselves, then online communities, then meet ups and conferences in real life. There’s a real feeling of ‘we are in this together.’    Now is the perfect time to get into podcasting. We need your voice.    Your voice will change the world.  *** You're invited to join the Podcasting Step by Step Facebook Group!   Also, visit sarahmikutel.com for more resources on how to podcast.   Ready to start your own show? Download my free guide: “8 Mistakes New Podcasters Make and How to Fix Them.”    Looking for a podcast media host? Use my Libsyn affiliate code POSTCARD to get the rest of this month for free and next month free.    I’m your podcast launch consultant, Sarah Mikutel. If you’d like to learn more about me, you can check out my other podcast, Postcard Academy travel podcast. This travel podcast is for the ‘experiences not things’ kind of person who believes travel goes deeper than a fantastic meal (though that is pretty great). Every week, I interview people who packed up everything to start a new adventure in another part of the world. You’ll learn how they did it and get their best insider food and culture tips.    Thank you so much for listening to Podcasting Step by Step. I know you’re busy and have many listening options, so it means a lot to me that you’re here. You are the best.

When tourists visit England, most miss the beautiful coastal towns south of the London, and almost none of them have heard of Folkestone, the magical town in which my guest Tony Quarrington and I live. But we’re letting you in on the secret! (visit postcard academy.co for our list of recommendations.)   In the last episode, you heard about the history of Folkestone — it’s Victorian splendor and the important role the town played in World Wars I and II. Tony and I also talked about the two families that have had the greatest impact on the town over the last few centuries: the Radnors and the de Haans.    Tony left off speaking about Roger de Hann, who’s father was a prisoner of war during WWII and then went on to become a billionaire by founding the travel company Saga right here in Folkestone.    Roger has spent millions revitalizing the town where his father earned his fortune. I’m actually living in one of the refurbished buildings in the Creative Quarter.    In this episode, I jump back into my conversation with Tony, who will talk more about Roger de Hann’s influence on Folkestone and how the town has changed in the last few decades. Then Tony and I will share our favorite places to eat, drink, and do fun things in Folkestone.   I’m your host, Sarah Mikutel. Did you know I host another show called Podcasting Step by Step? Check it out if you’ve been wanting to start a podcast. Every week, I break down ‘how to podcast’ with a little loving motivation to give you the skills and confidence you need to finally launch that show of your dreams.   Ready to travel? Get your free guide to cheap airfare.   Thank you so much for listening to this show. I know you’re busy and have many listening options, so it means a lot to me that you’re here. You are the best.   This podcast is brought to you by Audible. Not a member yet? Postcard Academy listeners can get a FREE audiobook and a 30-day free trial if you sign up via audibletrial.com/postcard   This podcast is also brought to you by World Nomads. Need simple and flexible travel insurance? Get a cost estimate from World Nomads using their handy calculator at postcardacademy.co/insurance  

When tourists visit England, they usually stay in London. Maybe they’ll do a daytrip to Stonehenge or, if they’re feeling extra glam, take the Eurostar to Paris. If they wanted to experience something extra special, they’d take the train south to visit the beautiful coastal town of Folkestone.   You’ve probably heard of the White Cliffs of Dover. Next door you’ll find Folkestone, which no one in modern times remembers. It’s England’s best kept secret. But the Postcard Academy podcast is spilling the beans!    My guest Tony Quarrington is the local tour guide and on a two-part episode of the podcast, we share what we love about our seaside town.    In Part 1, Tony and I share fascinating stories to prove that history doesn’t repeat itself, but it does rhyme (take a listen if you like British history and royal family gossip). In Part 2, we give you all our favorite food and culture recommendations for Folkestone.   I’m your host, Sarah Mikutel. Did you know I host another show called Podcasting Step by Step? Check it out if you’ve been wanting to start a podcast. Every week, I break down ‘how to podcast’ with a little loving motivation to give you the skills and confidence you need to finally launch that show of your dreams.   Ready to travel? Get your free guide to cheap airfare.   Thank you so much for listening to this show. I know you’re busy and have many listening options, so it means a lot to me that you’re here. You are the best.   This podcast is brought to you by Audible. Not a member yet? Postcard Academy listeners can get a FREE audiobook and a 30-day free trial if you sign up via audibletrial.com/postcard   This podcast is also brought to you by World Nomads. Need simple and flexible travel insurance? Get a cost estimate from World Nomads using their handy calculator at postcardacademy.co/insurance  

People pleasers, raise your hands! Do you feel guilty speaking up or saying no to people? Like when a fan writes to you asking to be a guest on your podcast but you don’t think it’s a good fit and then you start stressing and asking your friends ‘what should you do’ and before you know it an hour has gone by and why did you check your email instead of recording your show?    On this episode of Podcasting Step by Step, I share actionable steps to help you let go of the stress, take control, and become the leader your show needs you to be.    Visit sarahmikutel.com for more articles on how to podcast. Ready to start your own show? Download my free guide: “8 Mistakes New Podcasters Make and How to Fix Them.”    Looking for a podcast media host? Use my Libsyn affiliate code POSTCARD to get the rest of this month for free and next month free.    I’m your podcast launch consultant, Sarah Mikutel. If you’d like to learn more about me, you can check out my other podcast, Postcard Academy travel podcast. This travel podcast is for the ‘experiences not things’ kind of person who believes travel goes deeper than a fantastic meal (though that is pretty great). Every week, I interview people who packed up everything to start a new adventure in another part of the world. You’ll learn how they did it and get their best insider food and culture tips.    Thank you so much for listening to Podcasting Step by Step. I know you’re busy and have many listening options, so it means a lot to me that you’re here. You are the best.  

As podcasters, we want to do what we can to help people discover and listen to our show. This means being in all the podcast directories, like Apple Podcasts, but should we be on YouTube, as well? On Podcasting Step by Step, I dig into why this can hurt us if we do it the wrong way, and how to use YouTube right.   Visit sarahmikutel.com for more articles on how to podcast. Ready to start your own show? Download my free guide: “8 Mistakes New Podcasters Make and How to Fix Them.”    Looking for a podcast media host? Use my Libsyn affiliate code POSTCARD to get the rest of this month for free and next month free.    I’m your podcast launch consultant, Sarah Mikutel. If you’d like to learn more about me, you can check out my other podcast, Postcard Academy travel podcast. This travel podcast is for the ‘experiences not things’ kind of person who believes travel goes deeper than a fantastic meal (though that is pretty great). Every week, I interview people who packed up everything to start a new adventure in another part of the world. You’ll learn how they did it and get their best insider food and culture tips.    Thank you so much for listening to Podcasting Step by Step. I know you’re busy and have many listening options, so it means a lot to me that you’re here. You are the best.  

Just Breathe! That’s actually the name of the talk today’s guest gave at Podcast Movement in 2019. One of the biggest mistakes new podcasters make is over-editing -- taking out every um and deleting all the breaths.    Carrie Caulfield Arick, owner of Ya-Ya Podcasting editing services; founder of the Just Busters Facebook Group for female podcast editors; and host of the podcast Just Podcasting wants us to take a deep breath and relax.   In this episode, we discuss some common audio problems and how to prevent and fix them. We’ll also share some tips and tricks to make your podcast editing go faster.     Visit sarahmikutel.com for more articles on how to podcast. Ready to start your own show? Download my free guide: “8 Mistakes New Podcasters Make and How to Fix Them.”    Looking for a podcast media host? Use my Libsyn affiliate code POSTCARD to get the rest of this month for free and next month free.    I’m your podcast launch consultant, Sarah Mikutel. If you’d like to learn more about me, you can check out my other podcast, Postcard Academy travel podcast. This travel podcast is for the ‘experiences not things’ kind of person who believes travel goes deeper than a fantastic meal (though that is pretty great). Every week, I interview people who packed up everything to start a new adventure in another part of the world. You’ll learn how they did it and get their best insider food and culture tips.    Thank you so much for listening to Podcasting Step by Step. I know you’re busy and have many listening options, so it means a lot to me that you’re here. You are the best.  

One of the biggest peeves listeners have is when podcast host/s waffle on for too long before getting to the point of the episode. Your audience wants to know where you’re taking them, or they’re going to bail. In fact, the average podcast loses about a third of its audience in the first five minutes, according to NPR One. So how can you create an above average podcast?   In this episode, I’ll talk about how to keep your podcast audience listening by hooking them with a great intro.    Key takeaways: Hook your audience from the beginning. Let them know what they’ll get out of spending the next 30 or 60 or however many minutes with you.  Teasers, stories, and questions are great ways to hook your audience.  In addition to your hook, your intro should include your name and the name of your show.  Music is a nice way to brand your show and get your listeners in the right mood to hear your message.  Speak to one person. Use the word ‘you’ instead of ‘all of you.’  Consider including a call to action in your introduction.    Visit sarahmikutel.com for more articles on how to podcast. Ready to start your own show? Download my free guide: “8 Mistakes New Podcasters Make and How to Fix Them.”    Looking for a podcast media host? Use my Libsyn affiliate code POSTCARD to get the rest of this month for free and next month free.    I’m your podcast launch consultant, Sarah Mikutel. If you’d like to learn more about me, you can check out my other podcast, Postcard Academy travel podcast. This travel podcast is for the ‘experiences not things’ kind of person who believes travel goes deeper than a fantastic meal (though that is pretty great). Every week, I interview people who packed up everything to start a new adventure in another part of the world. You’ll learn how they did it and get their best insider food and culture tips.    Thank you so much for listening to Podcasting Step by Step. I know you’re busy and have many listening options, so it means a lot to me that you’re here. You are the best.  

What should you name your podcast? This is an important question. You’re pouring your heart and soul into this show and can literally name it anything you want (as long as it’s not trademarked). So how do you choose a good name for your podcast, also known as a podcast title?    Well, if you want to help listeners discover your show, follow the tips I share in today’s episode of Podcasting Step by Step.    Snapshot of this episode  Keep your podcast name short and sweet and choose clarity over cleverness (but do both if you can). Don’t keyword stuff your title, and stay away from numbers. Make sure no one else is using your podcast title.    Visit sarahmikutel.com for more articles on how to podcast. Ready to start your own show? Download my free guide: “8 Mistakes New Podcasters Make and How to Fix Them.”    Looking for a podcast media host? Use my Libsyn affiliate code POSTCARD to get the rest of this month for free and next month free.    I’m your podcast launch consultant, Sarah Mikutel. If you’d like to learn more about me, you can check out my other podcast, Postcard Academy travel podcast. This travel podcast is for the ‘experiences not things’ kind of person who believes travel goes deeper than a fantastic meal (though that is pretty great). Every week, I interview people who packed up everything to start a new adventure in another part of the world. You’ll learn how they did it and get their best insider food and culture tips.    Thank you so much for listening to Podcasting Step by Step. I know you’re busy and have many listening options, so it means a lot to me that you’re here. You are the best.

I hope you are enjoying these final days of summer, if it is summer in your part of the world.    I’m currently visiting my family in the United States and so the Postcard Academy will be on a brief two-week break. I will be back in September with new episodes of adventurous people who packed up everything to start a new adventure in another part of the world.    You’ll continue to get their insider food and culture tips, and I’m going to share more ways on how you can make living abroad happen for you if that is something you’re interested in. I’ve got some other fun plans in the works, so stay tuned.    If you’ve already taken the time to give the Postcard Academy a positive rating or review on Apple Podcasts -- thank you! This means the world to me. Here’s a recent one:   “I love this podcast and have used it numerous times to help plan trip itineraries or be inspired to go new places. The tips, recommendations, and backstory feel like it’s coming from a good friend. I especially love the interviews with locals. My one request: do the Sarajevo episode(s) already, please!!! I’m going in September and know I’ll have a better trip with Sarah’s advice!”    Thank you for that review and feedback, dear listener, and thanks for the gentle nudge. I’ve talked about my love of Sarajevo for long enough on this show. It’s time for some action.    I will make a Sarajevo episode happen for September. Meanwhile, I’ve already written a very in-depth ‘Ultimate Sarajevo Guide.’ You can find that at postcardacademy.co/sarajevo     If you’re in a generous spirit, why not take a moment to rate and/or review the Postcard Academy in Apple Podcasts. This helps other potential listeners know if the show is worth listening to :)   I’m your host, Sarah Mikutel. Did you know I host another show called Podcasting Step by Step? Check it out if you’ve been wanting to start a podcast. Every week, I break down ‘how to podcast’ with a little loving motivation to give you the skills and confidence you need to finally launch that show of your dreams.   Ready to travel? Get your free guide to cheap airfare.   Thank you so much for listening to this show. I know you’re busy and have many listening options, so it means a lot to me that you’re here. You are the best.   This podcast is brought to you by Audible. Not a member yet? Postcard Academy listeners can get a FREE audiobook and a 30-day free trial if you sign up via audibletri

Ever wondered what it's like to move to a new country? Sarah Mikutel, founder of The Postcard Academy, shares her top tips on how to fit right in to your new surroundings.

LIBSYN PODCASTERS MEET-UP NOVEMBER 5 from 5–8 pm. Come hang out with Rob, Krystal, Dave and Elsie! libsyn.com/libsynmeetup Want merch? We've got you covered #podcastersftw! Get yours today and support Podcasting! Quick Episode Summary: Intro :07 Audio Rockin' Libsyn Podcast: You, Me, Empathy 1:55 How you can be featured by Libsyn! 5:58 PROMO 1: Postcard Academy 7:20 Elsie and Rob Conversation 7:50 How to get the latest must know information about Libsyn and most importantly about your Libsyn account Apple's grim reaper of keywords is striking hard! Folks pay attention to your titles and author tags What about episode titles and dashes? Apple charts being manipulated Congrats to Podcast Awards winners! PROMO: Adventures in Erylia 25:50 Replacing a file you know is going to have to be replaced via Steve Stewart 26:30 Scripps acquires Triton for 150 Million Episode artwork on Apple Podcasts Will Apple Podcasts ever support those episode level tags? Resources and ideas on creating an informative and fun podcasting event The coolest way to create the optimal playlist on Apple Podcasts –16 LUFS or –14 LUFS? Suggestions on outsourcing marketing for your podcast and it does NOT involve Fivver Awesome feedback from Paul Colligan about podcast marketing 47:19 A New TV show this season on TV in the US is called God Friended Me - and it is about an Atheist Podcaster who gets a friend request from God Will doing a Facebook Live do better than podcasting? How radio has consumed the podcast world Third Coast Google+ Communities are going away and Rob needs help finding a new hub for his community Feedback on the impact of Spotify How much time people spend marketing vs creating content and what their stats say How much money you should spend on marketing PROMO: The A&P Professor 1:17:20 Stats time!!! Mean, median, user agents, and geographic Featured Podcast Promos + Audio Postcard Academy Adventures in Erylia The A&P Professor You, Me and Empathy Steve Stewart Paul Colligan Thank you to Nick from MicMe for our awesome intro! Podcasting Articles and Links mentioned by Rob and Elsie Our SpeakPipe Feedback page! Leave us feedback :) Apple is Cracking Down on Podcasts. How to Avoid Getting Pulled From iTunes. Chartbreakers: How spammers are gaming the podcast charts The Podcast Awards Scripps to acquire Triton, the industry leader in digital audio infrastructure; measurement Scripps Buying Triton In $150 Million All-Cash Deal. SCRIPPS TO ACQUIRE TRITON, THE INDUSTRY LEADER IN DIGITAL AUDIO INFRASTRUCTURE; MEASUREMENT 043: Tips for Event Planning – with Jared Easley Listen Notes search results for event planning Podchaser episode search results for event planning Podchaser podcast search results for event planning Want Your Audience to Actually Consume Your Content? Give Podcasting a Second Look (or Listen). How radio has consumed the podcast world The Mac Power Users Community Discourse Mighty Networks This is the community run by the Mighty Networks Team, it's called Mighty Hosts How to Build an Online Community for Your Customers - with the creator of Mighty Networks Gina Bianchini Rob on Time For Marketing Rob on Smart Leaders Sell Podcast Where is Libsyn Going? (In Real Life) Digital Book World NAB in NYC use coupon code NY7787 if you want a ticket! We Are Podcast Podcon in Seattle Podfest in Orlando HELP US SPREAD THE WORD! We'd love it if you could please share #TheFeed with your twitter followers. Click here to post a tweet! If you dug this episode head on over to Apple Podcasts and kindly leave us a rating, a review and subscribe! Ways to subscribe to The Feed: The Official Libsyn Podcast Click here to subscribe via Apple Podcasts Click here to subscribe via RSS You can also subscribe via Stitcher FEEDBACK + PROMOTION You can ask your questions, make comments and create a segment about podcasting for podcasters! Let your voice be heard. Download the FREE The Feed App for iOS and Android (you can send feedback straight from within the app) Call 412 573 1934 Email thefeed@libsyn.com Use our SpeakPipe Page!  

Creating a 30 second promo trailer for your show is a great way to grow your audience. A trailer is a little "taster" for potential new listeners, and gives them an idea of the tone, feel, and content of the show. It's easy to consume, and easy to share too. On this episode we're going to listen to and offer feedback on some promo trailers that were created by members of The Podcast Host Academy as part of our monthly ($50 prize) competition. The shows are; The Postcard Academy - https://postcardacademy.co Tog & Thel - http://aducklingknits.com The Curious Parent - https://happyselfjournal.com/podcast High Heels & Heartache - http://highheelsandheartache.com Here, you'll learn more about the ways you can create a promo trailer that really works for you in promoting your show, and pulling in new listeners. Also mentioned; How to Make a Promo Trailer - http://thepodcasthost.com/promotrailer The Podcast Host Academy - https://www.thepodcasthost.com/academy Alitu: The Podcast Maker - https://alitu.com Hostile Worlds - http://hostileworlds.netSupport the show (https://pod.academy)