At 17, life is filled with exciting opportunities, personal growth, and a whirlwind of emotions. It’s a time when many are exploring who they are, figuring out their passions, and beginning to lay the foundation for their futures. For me, this journey has been anything but typical. Alongside the usual high school responsibilities, I’ve taken on the challenge of running my own podcast *and* working two jobs. Sounds like a lot, right? Let me take you through how I make it all work and why this hustle means the world to me.
Finding My Passion: The Birth of My Podcast
Starting a podcast was never just a side project for me—it was something that I felt deeply connected to. My podcast, *Talk of Fame*, has been a way to amplify important conversations about mental health, empowerment, and success stories. Interviewing incredible guests like Madison Watkins and Gabrielle Stone has allowed me to share meaningful content with listeners from all walks of life.
The idea for the podcast stemmed from a desire to inspire others. At 17, I’ve learned that we all have stories worth telling, and I wanted to create a platform that lets those voices be heard. Whether it’s actors, musicians, or local heroes, my goal has always been to show that everyone can make a difference.
But let’s be real—running a podcast isn’t as easy as grabbing a microphone and hitting record. There’s research, scheduling, editing, and promotion that go into every episode. It’s a job in itself, but one I wouldn’t trade for anything because of the impact I get to make.
The Reality of Working Two Jobs
On top of running my podcast, I work two part-time jobs. Some days it feels like there aren’t enough hours, and balancing work with school and podcasting requires serious time management. But here's the thing: my jobs have taught me the value of responsibility, patience, and perseverance. They’re a constant reminder that hard work pays off.
Some days I’m exhausted, but that’s when I lean into my “why.” Why am I doing this? Because I’m passionate about creating something bigger than myself and building a future that reflects who I am. Working two jobs at 17 might sound crazy to some, but it’s shaping me into someone who understands the grind. It’s also allowing me to invest in my podcast and save for my bigger goals.
Time Management: The Key to Keeping It All Together
Juggling a podcast and two jobs is no joke, and the key to making it all work is time management. I’ve learned to plan my week down to the smallest details, whether it’s recording an episode between shifts or editing late into the night. I’ve become a pro at using every minute wisely.
There are days when I have to sacrifice a night out with friends or a Netflix binge session to meet deadlines. But I’ve realized that it’s all worth it when I see the impact of my work. Whether it’s a listener reaching out to say how much an episode inspired them or a sense of pride after a hard day’s work, those moments remind me why I’m doing this.
The Importance of Self-Care
Let’s be honest—working hard is essential, but so is taking care of yourself. I’ve learned the importance of setting aside time for rest, even if it’s just a quick meditation session or a walk outside. I’ve also become mindful of how I spend my downtime, prioritizing activities that recharge me rather than drain my energy.
Burnout is real, and I’ve been close to the edge a few times. But knowing when to hit pause and take care of my mental and physical health has been a game-changer.
Final Thoughts: Chase Your Dreams Relentlessly
Running a podcast and working two jobs at 17 has taught me that you can do anything you set your mind to. It takes passion, dedication, and a willingness to hustle through the challenges. It’s not always easy, but if it’s something you love, it’s always worth it.
To anyone out there who feels like they’re balancing a million things, I see you. You’re stronger than you think, and the hard work you’re putting in now will pay off. Keep chasing your dreams and don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t handle it all—because you can.
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