Podcast Summary: "Summer Reset: Why I’m Sitting By the Pool Instead of the Mic (And Why That Matters)"

Episode Details:

• Title: Summer Reset: Why I’m Sitting By the Pool Instead of the Mic (And Why That Matters)
• Host: Anne McGinty
• Release Date: July 22, 2025

Introduction: Announcing a Summer Break

In this heartfelt episode, Anne McGinty, the host of How I Built My Small Business, shares her decision to take a temporary hiatus from the podcast to embrace the summer season. She opens up about the importance of rest and the personal reasons behind her choice.

“How I Built My Small Business is taking a little summer break. Summer is my absolute favorite season.” [00:03]

Embracing the Season: Family, Sunshine, and Creative Shifts

Anne expresses her love for summer, highlighting the joy of longer days and the opportunity to spend quality time outdoors with family and friends. She reflects on how the season influences her creative energy, shifting from a focus on non-fiction and self-improvement to seeking relaxation and enjoyment.

“For the past year and a half I’ve been exclusively reading more like devouring nonfiction... But right now I’m craving the opposite and wanting to sit by the pool and get consumed with a good fiction read.” [00:50]

The Necessity of Rest in a Hustle-Driven Society

Addressing the often-overlooked value of rest, Anne challenges the societal glorification of constant hustle. She emphasizes that rest is not only vital for personal well-being but also essential for sustained creativity and clarity.

“In our hustle driven society, rest is often undervalued or even shamed. But rest is a part of progress.” [02:10]

Maintaining Creative Freedom: A Non-Monetized Project

Anne discusses the unique position of her podcast as a non-monetized creative endeavor. Free from the pressures of advertisers and network affiliations, she enjoys the flexibility to prioritize her well-being and take breaks as needed.

“This is part of the reason why I’ve kept this podcast as a non monetized creative project. I’m not owned by a network and I don’t have advertisers to please, which means I get to take a break because quite frankly, I want to.” [03:20]

Aligning with Nature’s Rhythm: Reconnecting with Inner Timing

Drawing parallels between seasonal changes and personal rhythms, Anne shares how aligning with nature helps her reconnect with her internal compass. She advocates for tuning into one’s own needs rather than adhering strictly to external schedules.

“Aligning with nature’s rhythm can reconnect us with our own inner timing, which often knows what we need before our calendar does.” [05:00]

Encouraging Listeners to Embrace Their Own Breaks

Anne extends her philosophy to her audience, encouraging listeners to heed their own desires for rest and rejuvenation. She offers practical suggestions for how one might implement a personal summer reset, such as disconnecting from technology or engaging in leisurely activities.

“Maybe your summer reset looks like long walks without your phone, saying no to things that deplete you, or picking up a novel just because it feels good.” [06:15]

Conclusion: Looking Forward and Offering Gratitude

Closing the episode, Anne expresses gratitude to her listeners for their understanding and support. She reassures them of her return in three weeks, promising renewed energy and more stories to share.

“So I’ll be back in three weeks, a little more sun kissed, more relaxed, and with more stories to share with you.” [07:10]

Key Takeaways:

• Value of Rest: Rest is essential for creativity, clarity, and sustainable progress, contrary to the societal push for constant hustle.
• Personal Well-being: Prioritizing personal needs and aligning with natural rhythms can lead to a more balanced and fulfilling life.
• Creative Freedom: Maintaining a non-monetized project allows for greater flexibility and autonomy in managing personal and professional endeavors.
• Community Encouragement: Listeners are encouraged to take their own breaks, fostering a community that values presence over perpetual productivity.

Notable Quotes:

• “Rest is a part of progress.” [02:10]
• “Aligning with nature’s rhythm can reconnect us with our own inner timing.” [05:00]
• “Maybe your summer reset looks like long walks without your phone... or picking up a novel just because it feels good.” [06:15]

Final Thoughts:

In this reflective episode, Anne McGinty models the very principles she discusses, demonstrating the importance of taking intentional breaks to maintain both personal well-being and creative vitality. Her openness serves as an inspiration for entrepreneurs and listeners alike to prioritize rest and align their lives with natural rhythms, fostering a more balanced and sustainable approach to personal and professional growth.

Connect with Anne McGinty:

• Website: www.annemcginty.com
• LinkedIn: Anne McGinty
• Behind-The-Scenes: Instagram