Podcast Summary: Mick Unplugged

Episode: Sonja Keeve: Empower Yourself and Others by Owning Your Narrative
Host: Mick Hunt (Realm)
Guest: Sonja Keeve
Date: August 30, 2025

Episode Overview

This empowering episode of Mick Unplugged features Sonja Keeve—mentor, motivator, and host of the "Inspiring Nations" podcast—who shares her journey from unexpected setbacks to inspiring leadership and community through purposeful storytelling. Together with host Mick Hunt, they explore how owning and sharing your personal narrative can transform not only your own life, but also the lives of countless others. Listeners are treated to honest insights on discovering your deeper "Because," practical tips for starting and monetizing a podcast, and the magic of vulnerability in creating authentic connections.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

Meeting with Purpose: The Power of Connection

• [01:41] Mick: "The synergy that was there. And I always have this thing about amazing people. You know them when you feel them. And I felt you that day."
• [01:59] Sonja shares her excitement about networking and representation in podcasting, especially among people of color.

Discovering Your 'Because'

• [03:05] Sonja describes how a series of corporate layoffs led her to re-examine her identity and purpose. She describes a transformative 40-day fast, seeking clarity:

  "I am tired of allowing other people's opinion of me to dictate my destiny... So what is my calling?" — Sonja Keeve ([03:33])

• She launched the Inspiring Nations podcast to amplify everyday women’s voices, not expecting its global reach.
• Sonja finds fulfillment seeing women use her platform to gain confidence, grow businesses, heal families, and form authentic communities.

  "You are not ordinary, you're extraordinary because you are being vulnerable to tell your story that's going to help the next one woman." ([05:54])

The Impact of Storytelling

• [06:47] Mick asks how storytelling empowers others.
• [07:19] Sonja: Storytelling "gave the women who came onto the show the confidence to let go of the shame... they found their own purpose." She shares stories of guests launching successful businesses and healing relationships after finding their voice.
• Sonja’s authentic journey herself inspires her guests; her own experiences with loss and reinvention created the space for honesty and transformation.
• [11:54] Memorable Moment: Both Sonja and Mick realize they share a birthday—July 31st—on air, deepening their connection.

Practical Masterclass: Steps to Start and Grow a Podcast

• [14:13] Mick invites Sonja to share first steps for aspiring storytellers.
• [14:43] Sonja's Mirror Exercise:

  "The first thing I want you to do is stand in front of a mirror, look at yourself, flaws and all, and ask: If I do not tell my story today, what will happen?"

• She guides listeners to focus on authenticity over perfection, emphasizing that vulnerability is key to making impact.

Podcasting Essentials: The Big Three Questions

• [18:40] Sonja’s foundational steps for aspiring podcasters:
  1. Why do you want to start a podcast? Define your goal (e.g., connection, monetization, impact).
  2. Who is your message for? Pinpoint your ideal listener, their demographics, and their pain points—your show must solve a problem for them.
  3. What is the end result? Each episode must serve the listener’s needs and reflect your brand’s uniqueness.

  "People are connecting because it’s you. You are the brand for your show... You are the expert." ([20:33])

• Podcasting can feel lonely, but it's a powerful way to forge genuine, intimate connections.

Monetization and Growth Tips

• [22:07] Sonja:
  • Start by monetizing what you already have—books, products, or services. Use your show as an advertising platform for your ecosystem.
  • Consider charging guests (with clear ROI), affiliate partnerships, and sponsorships—even niche shows with smaller but engaged audiences can attract sponsors.
  • Focus on quality content and building community rather than just numbers:

    "I'm a type of girl that says, listen, I like to work smarter and not harder. So start with what’s already in your hands." ([24:48])

Podcasters Rock Summit: Building Community

• [25:36] Sonja: Announces the annual Podcasters Rock Summit, September 27, 2025, in Fredericksburg, Virginia—an intimate event designed to help podcasters and aspiring podcasters grow, monetize, and connect.
• Tickets available on Eventbrite; event space limited for maximum impact and networking.

  "If you are anywhere in the area, please come out. Even if you want to fly in, this is an event not to miss." ([26:35])

Connect with Sonja

• [27:27] Sonja:
  • Website: sonjakeeve.com
  • LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram: @SonjaKeeve

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On vulnerability and storytelling:

  "Your story may be about you, but... it's not for you. If you could just get beyond feeling like, I don't know if I have the story to tell—your life is your story." — Sonja Keeve ([16:09])

• The importance of intentionality:

  "People connect to the authenticity and the vulnerability." — Sonja Keeve ([15:27])

• Revelation and connection:

  "Ladies and gentlemen, we have breaking news... My birthday is July 31st." — Mick ([11:54])
  "Come on, future Leo. Yes." — Sonja ([12:17])

• On inspiring through loss:

  "It was my losses that helped build the story for me... when I began to tell my story... my story inspired them, so they got the courage to tell their story.” — Sonja Keeve ([09:56])

Important Segment Timestamps

• Connection & Introduction: [01:41] – [02:43]
• Sonja’s Origin Story & ‘Because’: [03:05] – [06:37]
• Effects of Storytelling: [06:47] – [11:45]
• July 31st Birthday Realization: [11:54] – [12:30]
• First Steps for Aspiring Storytellers: [14:43] – [17:14]
• Podcasting Masterclass: The Big Three: [18:40] – [21:41]
• Monetizing and Scaling a Podcast: [22:07] – [25:25]
• Podcasters Rock Summit Details: [25:36] – [27:20]
• Sonja’s Contact Info and Farewells: [27:27] – end

Final Takeaways

• The transformative power of storytelling lies in its authenticity and vulnerability; your personal journey can inspire, heal, and empower others.
• Launching a podcast should start with clear intention: know your 'because,' your audience, and your message.
• Growth and monetization stem from building community, leveraging existing assets, and staying true to your unique voice.
• Real connections (including shared birthdays!) are at the heart of authentic leadership and impact.

“Your ‘because’ is your superpower. Go unleash it.” – Mick ([28:15])