Private Practice Startup Podcast: Episode 366 Summary
Title: Behind the Mic: Reflecting on 8 Years of Podcasting
Hosts: Dr. Kate Campbell & Katie Lemieux
Release Date: November 30, 2024
1. Introduction to the Milestone Episode
In this special 366th episode of the Private Practice Startup Podcast, co-hosts Dr. Kate Campbell and Katie Lemieux take listeners on a heartfelt journey through their eight-year podcasting experience. Celebrating nearly a decade of providing valuable insights to mental health professionals, Kate and Katie share stories, challenges, and the evolution of their beloved show.
2. The Birth of the Podcast
Dr. Kate Campbell reminisces about the inception of the podcast, inspired by John Lee Dumas’s "Entrepreneur on Fire."
Dr. Kate Campbell [04:33]: "As I'm walking Landon around the neighborhood, I had this light bulb moment... we have got to create a podcast. This is going to be the greatest way we can reach our audience."
The idea was to offer free, accessible content to clinicians struggling with the business and marketing aspects of private practice, leveraging Kate and Katie's expertise in these areas.
3. Early Challenges and Evolution
The hosts candidly discuss the technical and personal hurdles they faced in the early days. Starting with a rudimentary "Snowball" microphone, they navigated issues like poor sound quality and the complexities of self-editing.
Dr. Kate Campbell [09:25]: "I stupidly would literally sit so close together... it was exhausting."
Katie adds her struggles with physical pain during the pandemic, highlighting their commitment to maintaining the podcast despite personal hardships.
Katie Lemieux [24:21]: "I was literally laying down on a yoga mat doing the phone session. I was in so much pain."
Over time, they transitioned from a rigid, structured format to a more conversational and authentic style, enhancing the podcast's appeal and ease of production.
4. Systemizing the Podcast Process
Realizing the unsustainability of their initial approach, Kate and Katie revamped their production by outsourcing tasks and systemizing their workflow. This shift allowed them to focus on content creation without being bogged down by technical details.
Dr. Kate Campbell [10:40]: "Once we got things structured and outsourced and systemized, then we could just show up and have fun and do what we actually love to do with the podcast."
5. Diverse Content and Audience Engagement
The podcast has featured a wide array of content, from contests and success stories to miniseries and personal episodes. Audience participation has been a cornerstone, with listeners voting on topics and engaging through feedback.
Katie Lemieux [15:30]: "So many of you have connected with other people because you have listened to their message... it's just kind of this communal support."
They highlight successful segments like the “Up Close and Personal” series, where listeners gained deeper insights into the lives of practice builders.
6. Building Relationships and Impact
A significant benefit of podcasting has been the ability to forge meaningful connections. Kate shares a memorable encounter where she met a dedicated listener during a family hike.
Dr. Kate Campbell [22:00]: "We met Michelle on the top of the mountain... she was fangirling right now. I can't believe that I'm running into you."
These interactions underscore the podcast’s impact, fostering a supportive community among mental health professionals worldwide.
7. Navigating Personal and Technical Challenges
The pandemic posed unique challenges, including relocating to a family lake house in Michigan with unreliable internet. Despite these obstacles, Kate and Katie persevered, illustrating their dedication.
Dr. Kate Campbell [27:12]: "Podcasting in this sketchy place so I could have good service... we've shown up episode after episode for Startup Nation, regardless of all of our struggles and challenges."
Personal hardships, such as Katie's chronic pain and Kate's postpartum depression, tested their resilience. However, their unwavering commitment ensured the podcast's continuity.
8. Addressing Ethical Dilemmas
An unexpected challenge was discovering unethical behavior by some past guests. This situation required careful consideration regarding whether to remove certain episodes to maintain the podcast's integrity.
Katie Lemieux [29:55]: "We really had to think through the decision, do we remove the podcast... it was definitely something very, very difficult."
Kate emphasizes the importance of ethical standards, highlighting their proactive approach to handling such sensitive issues.
9. Benefits Beyond Content Creation
Podcasting has not only amplified their impact but also created additional revenue streams through sponsorships. Long-standing partners like TherapyNotes have been instrumental in sustaining the podcast.
Katie Lemieux [20:49]: "Being able to support practice builders... it's just kind of this communal support, really, of our whole kind of industry."
The podcast has also served as a legacy project, allowing Kate and Katie to leave a lasting mark on the mental health professional community.
10. Looking Ahead: Future Plans and Gratitude
As the episode wraps up, Kate and Katie express immense gratitude towards their listeners, sponsors, and collaborators. They hint at exciting announcements in upcoming episodes, continuing their mission to empower mental health professionals.
Katie Lemieux [32:25]: "Cheers to eight years of podcasting and the journey. I hope that this really inspires you if you are podcasting or thinking about it."
11. Closing Thoughts
In their concluding remarks, Kate and Katie encourage listeners to stay connected by subscribing, rating, and reviewing the podcast. They emphasize the importance of community and shared growth, promising more valuable content in the future.
Dr. Kate Campbell [33:32]: "Stay inspired."
Key Takeaways
- Inspiration and Beginnings: Inspired by "Entrepreneur on Fire," Kate and Katie launched their podcast to support clinicians in building successful private practices.
- Overcoming Challenges: From technical issues and personal hardships to ethical dilemmas, the hosts showcase resilience and adaptability.
- Evolving Content: Transitioning from structured to conversational formats enhanced authenticity and listener engagement.
- Community and Impact: Meaningful connections and audience support highlight the podcast’s role in fostering a supportive network.
- Future Outlook: Continued gratitude and anticipation for forthcoming developments underscore the podcast’s enduring mission.
This comprehensive reflection by Dr. Kate Campbell and Katie Lemieux not only celebrates their remarkable journey but also serves as an inspiring blueprint for mental health professionals and aspiring podcasters alike. Their story exemplifies the power of dedication, adaptability, and community in creating a lasting and impactful platform.