Today we’d like to introduce you to Andi Smiley
Hi Andi, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
When I was ready to start my podcast I bought a DIY course, because I knew I wanted to do it “right”. I started the course a month after my youngest was born and I was so excited to have something that I could create that was just for me…not for my kids’ or for Scott, just me.
I was so grateful to have a step by step guide to starting my podcast, except I always had follow up questions that were specific to my podcast and my situation. I actually got stuck on the “get approved by apple podcasts” step for several of weeks, because I was so nervous that I might do it wrong and they were going to tell me that I wasn’t cut out to be a podcaster and I should just give up now (obviously that didn’t happen).
In February of 2022 I launched my podcast and it was such a good day! My podcast was finally out in the world! I listened to it with my family, danced to my intro music with them and just reveled in the fact that I had created something and put it out into the world.
Fast forward almost 3 years and I have a podcast that not only brings me so much joy and fulfillment, but has also helped me build a community that I get to serve and who are excited to hear what I have to say! I have helped dozens of women start and grow their podcasts and it has been the best.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Finding time to work on my podcast was hard, until I realized that I needed to make my dream a priority. I talked to my partner and we were able to find time where he could be the main caregiver and I could build my business.
I have had to work very hard to not let “mom guilt” get the best of me. Luckily, I have kids and a partner who cheer me on and make it all worth it.
There are definitely days when I wonder if I should just give up, because nothing seems to be working. But on those days I usually take a break, snuggle my kids and spend some time talking to God, then get back to it the next day.
As you know, we’re big fans of The Friendly Podcast Guide. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
I have a podcast where I help women (especially moms) start and grow their podcasts. Along with the podcast I also do individual and group coaching where I help women on a more personal level start and grow their podcasts.
I am really good at creating systems that help me make the most of my time, so that I can follow my dream of being a podcasters and coach without letting it take over my life. I have been able to pass along these systems to the women that I coach so that they too can have their dream podcasts and are still able to watch Netflix with their partner after their kids go to bed.
I am proud of the fact that I have helped dozens of women start and grow their podcasts.
If women are wanting to start a podcast, but are overwhelmed by the process they can do a free podcast coaching session with me.
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
I don’t really believe in luck. I believe that God has a plan for me and for the people that need my help. So, I trust that God will put those people in my path when I am supposed to help them. I am so grateful for the life I live and I truly feel so lucky to be able to help the women that I get to help and still have a fulfilling life outside of podcasting.
Pricing:
- First podcast coaching session: Free
- Additional podcast coaching sessions: $50
- The Podcast Launch Club: $300
- Podcast Starter Pack: $27
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.friendlypodcastguide.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/friendlypodcastguide/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thefriendlypodcastguide
