I got an email from someone struggling to start their podcast, "The biggest issue I’m dealing with is psychological: the show is not coming together in the format that I really wanted—and at this point there seems to be nothing I can do about that— but that, combined with fear, uncertainty, and doubt, and the inevitable self-comparisons to what others are doing as well as my own personal expectations has quite frankly got me a little bit paralyzed. It’s like I’m on the firing line, I’m locked and loaded and I’ve got a good site picture, but I just can’t get myself to pull the trigger because I’m afraid of the kickback."  I've mentioned in the past how to Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and the story of Monica Rivera, and today I want to talk about how it feels to podcast. What Does it Feel Like to be a Podcaster? Excited By the possibilities Frustrated When computers decide to be, well, computers. Smarter When you figure things out Nervous As you are learning new things, and getting outside of your comfort zone. Confident When you publish your first episode Frightened When you realize everyone can hear your show. Humbled / Shocked When we inspire someone or affect someone. Normal When you find out you’re not the only one who thinks this way. Safe Because you are surrounded by people similar to you Amazed At the opportunities to that come your way, the people you get to speak Mentioned in This Show Overcoming Imposter Syndrome Episode Monica Rivera The Nudge You Need Podcasting in America The latest edition the Edison Research Infinite Dial was published. Here are some insights: 70%  are familiar with the word podcasting ( 197 Million people) 51% have listened to at least one podcast ( a 7% jump) 32% listen on a monthly basis (up from 26%) 22% listen on a weekly basis (up from 17%) 17 million more people are monthly listeners than last year. 14 million more podcast are listening Work With Me Join the School of Podcasting or let me be your podcast mentor