Blueprint Breaker: Amy Palmer
During my sabbatical of 2022, I became clear on one specific goal: I wanted to start a podcast.
I wanted to serve women, like myself, in midlife and beyond who were living a life outside the traditional norm. It was important to spread the message that our next season of life can be rich and full, peaceful and happy, despite what societal messages we have received our entire lives.
“In other ways it was difficult: I did not know how to build an audience. I did not know how to get my audience to engage and interact.”
I Launched My Podcast, Blueprint Breakers:
In October of 2022, I launched my podcast, Blueprint Breakers. In some ways it was super easy: I knew what I wanted to talk about. I knew the types of interviews I wanted to conduct. And I knew the community I wanted to build. In other ways it was difficult: I did not know how to build an audience. I did not know how to get my audience to engage and interact.
But most important of all, I did not know the many ways this particular journey would change my life. A year and a half later with over 60 episodes live, here are just of few examples of the impact podcasting has had on me:
1. My Mission Is Crystal Clear:
Over time, after exploring different topics and telling many stories, I have concluded that I am teaching the foundation of three truths.
- There is more than one way to do life.
- You can create the life you want.
- There is no timeline.
While the first two truths may seem obvious, it has taken a lot of learning, exploring and reflecting to realize that no one life path is any better / worse than another.
There is more than one way to find fulfillment and happiness and be successful in life. Regardless of our circumstances, we have the ability to create a happy, fulfilling life if we are willing to put in the work. The last truth was more difficult for me to accept, but after conducting dozens of interviews with women who are living examples of making it happen no matter their age, I am now a firm believer.
2. Learning And Growing With Each Woman That I Interview:
I have had the privilege to speak with authors, speakers, coaches, doctors, financial experts, a gerontologist, nutritionists, trainers and more! I have learned something from each conversation and I feel like I have been taking a masterclass in midlife.
Any time I face a particular challenge in my life, it inspires me to seek out someone for the podcast who can teach us about that topic. Worried about menopause symptoms? Talk with a doctor who has studied it extensively. Concerned about solo aging? Interview a gerontologist who provided a list of free resources to help with preparation. I am having the unique experience of being both the student and the teacher as I bring this information to my audience.
“My podcast has helped me to build my credibility and establish trust with women who are seeking guidance and support.”
3. I Am Establishing An International Network Of Friends And Colleagues:
Several women who I’ve interviewed, I haven’t met in person. Yet we keep in touch, we support each other’s missions. My nomadic lifestyle is enhanced knowing that I have connections with some powerful women around the globe. Women who I will meet in person someday. I have established friendships with some, and had professional collaborations with others. I would not have met these inspiring women without my podcast.
4. It’s Opened Up The Door For Sources Of Income:
While I am not currently making money directly from my podcast, it has generated income indirectly. I recently wrapped up my first group coaching program, “From Stuck to Stellar”, where each participant worked for several weeks on pivoting, upleveling, or expanding one area of their life. It was deeply rewarding for me and the participants. The sisterhood we created in our Support Circle was special and provided high vibrations. My podcast has helped me to build my credibility and establish trust with women who are seeking guidance and support.
Also, since I taught myself how to fully edit and produce an audio / video podcast, I am now also providing podcast production services to other small businesses. I am thoroughly enjoying this process and continue to hone and improve my editing skills!
Lastly, I received a paid speaking gig as a direct result of my podcast! An acquaintance of mine, who became a listener, a friend, a member of my coaching program, recommended me to her employer when they were seeking speakers for their International Women’s Day celebration. She was able to make her case by sharing samples of the topics I speak on for my podcast. I was able to craft my speech around the foundational three truths and the message landed nicely with the audience.
5. I Have A New Creative Outlet:
My podcast is one of my primary creative outlets right now. Moreover, I have a lot to say and to share, and I want to help and support women. Having a platform to do this is in perfect alignment with my values, and some of my gifts. This creativity has led me to leverage social media in different and creative ways in order to promote the show. My Instagram, Facebook, and even LinkedIn accounts have become creative vehicles for me to teach, share, and engage.
Become A Podcaster:
Am I trying to convince you to become a podcaster? Maybe..
I am trying to influence you to find some sort of creative outlet that will feed your soul, help you find new connections, provide a new passion to learn, and help you crystalize your vision and purpose. Podcasting is just one really great way to achieve all that! If you have any questions about how to get started, please don’t hesitate to reach out!
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About the Author:
As host and facilitator for the Blueprint Breaker podcast, Amy A. Palmer is dedicated to expanding and amplifying the voices of women over 45 who are living a “non-traditional” lifestyle.
After a lifelong struggle with feeling “outside” the societal norm and longing to live up to perceived expectations, Amy has found peace, acceptance, and joy as she embarks on the next era of her life. Amy was formerly a senior corporate executive, a nationally recognized sales and operations expert, an award-winning actress, a resident of 13 different US cities, and a prize-winning DC blogger.
Amy has a vast network of friends and colleagues with whom she enjoys travel and adventures and a close family including six niblings (nieces & nephews), the loves of her life!