When I first decided to start my podcast, Talk of Fame, at the age of 14, I had no idea what I was getting myself into. The concept seemed simple enough: create a platform to discuss important topics like mental health and women’s empowerment. But as with many things in life, the reality turned out to be much more complex and enriching than I could have imagined. Here are some surprising lessons I’ve learned along the way.
1. You Don’t Need to Have It All Figured Out
At 17, it’s easy to feel the pressure of needing to know exactly what you want to do with your life. Starting a podcast taught me that it’s okay to not have all the answers. In fact, some of the best episodes have come from exploring topics I was curious about but didn’t fully understand. Embracing uncertainty allowed me to grow, learn, and connect with my audience on a deeper level.
2. Preparation is Key, But Flexibility is Crucial
I quickly learned that thorough preparation is essential when running a podcast. However, flexibility is equally important. No matter how much you plan, unexpected things can happen—guests might reschedule, technology might fail, or a conversation might take an unexpected turn. Being able to adapt in real-time is a skill I’ve developed and one that has served me well, both in podcasting and in life.
3. Building Relationships is Everything
One of the most rewarding aspects of running a podcast has been the relationships I’ve built with my guests and listeners. Each guest brings a unique perspective, and these interactions have not only enriched my podcast but have also expanded my own worldview. The connections I’ve made have opened doors to new opportunities and collaborations, proving that building a strong network is invaluable.
4. Your Voice Has Power
As a teenager, it’s easy to feel like your voice doesn’t matter in the grand scheme of things. But podcasting has taught me that every voice has the power to inspire, motivate, and create change. The feedback from listeners who have been impacted by the stories shared on Talk of Fame has been overwhelming. It’s a reminder that no matter your age, your voice can make a difference.
5. Time Management is a Lifelong Skill
Balancing school, extracurriculars, and running a podcast has been a crash course in time management. I’ve had to learn how to prioritize, delegate, and sometimes say no—skills that will undoubtedly benefit me in any future endeavor. While it’s been challenging, it’s also taught me the importance of self-care and setting boundaries.
6. Passion Fuels Persistence
There have been days when juggling everything felt overwhelming, and I questioned whether I could keep going. But my passion for the topics I cover and the mission of empowering others has kept me motivated. When you’re passionate about something, it’s easier to push through the tough times and stay committed to your goals.
7. You’re Never Too Young to Start Something Big
One of the most surprising lessons I’ve learned is that age is just a number when it comes to pursuing your dreams. Starting Talk of Fame at 14 has shown me that you don’t have to wait for the “perfect time” to start something meaningful. If you have an idea, go for it—regardless of your age. You’ll be surprised at what you can achieve.
Final Thoughts
Running a podcast at 17 has been an incredible journey, filled with challenges, growth, and countless surprises. It’s taught me valuable lessons about myself, others, and the world around me. Most importantly, it’s shown me that when you’re passionate about something, there’s no limit to what you can achieve—even as a teenager. So, if you’re considering starting your own podcast or pursuing any passion project, my advice is simple: go for it. You never know what amazing lessons you might learn along the way.
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