First, I wish my listeners a Happy New Year! I pray that 2021 is a year we step out of our comfort zones and face our fears. I decided that my second post for the year would be to enlighten Nigerian women on the benefits of podcasting.
A podcast is an audio recording that touches on a variety of topics like motherhood, faith, business, travel and so on. It is accessible on directories like Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify or even hosted on websites, and can be listened to on the go like when commuting, working remotely, doing chores or exercising. This is exactly the reason that podcasts have become increasingly popular since the 2000s and even more so during 2020.
One of the many benefits of podcasting is that you do not require technical skills to begin. Yes, it can become more complex and technical as you grow your audience but as a beginner, you can simply use your phone to record with the help of a microphone to improve sound quality. In addition, you can easily do as many takes as you please until you get it right because there is no team of directors and cameramen subtly pressuring you to get it right! You are the boss and you call the shots!
On the other hand, business owners are increasingly using podcasts to market their products and services – developing indirect relationships with their listeners and potential clients. So as a businesswoman, you can reach your potential customers using your voice in a way that no advertiser can. As you can see, podcasting is a win-win for everyone.
Podcasting provides a voice to immigrant women, who often feel invisible and struggle with cultural shock. Podcasts are a tool for women who shy away from public speaking. I struggled with public speaking before I ventured into podcasting. However, I have been able to tackle that fear by building my confidence overtime behind the “ comfort “ of my microphone.
Podcasting changed my life positively and it can change yours too, my fellow Nigerian women. Hopefully this article can encourage at least one woman to explore the many opportunities podcasting offers.