My journey with podcasts began in 2012 when I stepped into the role of a full-time working mom. Allow me to share how podcasts transformed and even saved my life.
Three months after having my first baby, I was already returning to work. My schedule was: wake up, get ready, drop off baby, commute, work, breast pump in the bathroom, work, commute, pick up baby, and home again to care for my baby until bedtime (and care for her through the night too). There was no longer time (not even a moment) to rest, catch up on missed sleep, run errands, do housework, grab some food, read a book, watch a show, go to a movie, go shopping, etc. My schedule had worn me out, I was sleep deprived, I forgot who I was before my baby was born, and I felt like I had nothing left for me.
With rising traffic conditions, I had to commute to work longer and longer every day after dropping my daughter at daycare in the morning. But I was grateful for the commute in one specific way, because it was literally my only alone time (unless you count pumping or peeing in the bathroom). I'd either drive in silence while thinking or listen to the radio.
When I was listening to my local radio station while driving to work, I was often nodding off. When I caught myself "microsleeping" several times while driving, I knew I needed a fix. My car was headed in the wrong direction in a split-second several times, the rumble strip on the side of the lane jolting me awake. Sleepless nights are one of the reasons new moms have nearly three times the accident rate as the general population (Source). I was happy my baby girl wasn't in the car during my commute, but that wasn't enough to ease my mind. Because of the likelihood of a car crash, I had to find a solution, and I couldn't let my baby grow up without me. My life was at stake and the livelihood of my young daughter.
Discovering audiobooks on Audible was a godsend. They kept me alert during drives, but the cost was high. Then, I found podcasts - a plethora of free, engaging content that was both enlightening and entertaining. I loved the free content that kept me awake, entertained me, and added value to my life. Who wouldn't?
During the COVID Pandemic my commute was erased and now my two kids were home, which also erased my alone time (am I right fellow parents?). I was disappearing once again. That's when I knew I had to keep podcasts in my life, so I started listening to them while I was working from home. Podcasts are my brain candy and they are: an escape into a story, the encouragement you need in your rough day, the laugh that you require, a mystery explained, gossip without the guilt, coaching through your issues, acknowledgement of the struggle, and the focus to steer your brain onto that beautifully brave and meandering path of you.
My personal journey is what inspires me to contribute to the world of podcasts, both creatively and technically. If you're a podcaster, I'm eager to become a part of your journey.
I am a Virtual Assistant with specialty in Audio/Video editing. Contact me on Instagram @hollydillonva or visit my website here for more information and to schedule a discovery call.