Get out of your shell!
Would you consider yourself an introvert or an extrovert?
Nothing like a conference full of 700 podcasters to help you find out.
Last week, I spent an awesome 3 days with some amazing podcasting peeps at the Podfest Multimedia Expo in Orlando.
Yes, conference season is picking up again and the next 2 months are going to be a bit of a whirlwind. Personally, I have to ensure I'm getting enough rest so that I don't get totally burned out.
I'm hearing from several friends who were at Podfest that they caught some sort of bug at the airport, on the flight, or once they got home. I can definitely relate as the socializing does take a toll on your immune system.
But everything in moderation, right?
As much as these events tire you out, there's no doubt that they energize me so much more.
On Saturday, I had the honor of speaking on the subject of Finding Your Voice. This is a subject which is near and dear to my heart. I will admit, I was a bit nervous as it was the first time I had presented that specific talk for longer than 15 minutes.
I can't tell you what a great feeling it was to look out at several familiar faces, including past guests of my show. They definitely provided the fuel for me to make it through a couple of hiccups in the beginning.
During the talk, I shared the story of how I started Podcast Junkies, and all the voices I listened to leading up to that moment. Voices other than mine.
I can't say it was a short journey, In fact, it took 20 years. But one that was necessary nonetheless. The main takeaway to the audience was that for most of my adult life I had been listening to the voices of others, because I thought they knew best.
It was only through the creation of my show, and the genesis of FullCast that I realized I now have the ability to help others find their voice.
And I never forget all the people in my path, especially over the past 4 years, who have helped me get to this point. This conference was a heart-felt reminder of that.
I totally get by with a little help from my friends.
If you have to make it to a conference, my question is simple: “What are you waiting for?” 4 years of conferences have built a network of friendships that I will treasure for the rest of my life.
Yours are just waiting for you, you just haven't met them yet!
With gratitude,
Harry ‘Dueling Pianos' Duran (long story, trust me)