Welcome to Pod Talk, the official podcast of the New England Podcasters Group!

In this roundtable episode, your host, Founding Member Marianne DeMello-Smith (Message in the Middle), and her guests, Founding Members Stephanie McLaughlin (The Big Four Oh) and Amy Bolduc (Grounded in Maine), and Member Emily Aborn (Content with Character) — come together to talk candidly about their podcasting paths.

Whether you're a brand-new podcaster or have years behind the mic, you’ll find real talk, relatable stories, and practical advice in this episode. From navigating early-stage nerves to learning how to manage energy and show prep, these podcasting pros share what keeps them going and growing.

In this episode:
* The origin stories behind each podcast 🎧
* Tips for developing your authentic podcasting style ✨
* Advice for sustaining motivation and managing podcasting burnout 🔄
* Reflections on how podcasting has changed their lives (in expected and unexpected ways!) 🌀
* A fun and supportive conversation about *why* we podcast and *how* to keep showing up for your listeners

Join us for an inspiring listen — and get connected with a vibrant podcasting community!

🎧 Meet the Podcasters & Listen to Their Shows:

🔹 Marianne DeMello-Smith – Message in the Middle

🔹 Stephanie McLaughlin – The Big Four Oh

🔹 Amy Bolduc – Grounded in Maine

🔹 Emily Aborn – Content with Character

Heartfelt thanks to our podcast studio sponsor - WestfordCAT!

📢 Join the New England Podcasters Group
Celebrate collaboration, connection, and creativity in podcasting. Visit https://newenglandpodcasters.com to learn more and get involved.

💬 Subscribe to Pod Talk
Each month, four members of the New England Podcasters Group bring you fresh insights, behind-the-scenes stories, and real-world podcasting wisdom. Subscribe and stay connected to this dynamic community shaping the future of podcasting in New England and beyond.


CONNECT with NEPG online:
https://newenglandpodcasters.group/
https://www.instagram.com/newenglandpodcastersgroup/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/new-england-podcasters-group

JOIN THE NEPG COMMUNITY
https://newenglandpodcasters.group/

SPONSORSHIP
If you resonate with NEPG’s mission of building community among New England Podcasters, please reach out to me to learn more about making an impact through sponsorship.

⏱️ Episode Highlights:
00:00 Welcome to Pod Talk: Meet the Hosts
00:39 Introducing Our Podcasts
02:16 Challenges and Rewards of Podcasting
08:33 Defining Success in Podcasting
16:24 Energy and Motivation in Podcasting
19:19 Nerdy Confessions and Energy Management
19:37 Balancing Podcast Tasks
21:08 The Importance of Connection
21:52 Podcast Preparation Methods
24:19 Interview vs. Solo Episodes
31:26 Final Thoughts and Messages
35:14 Closing Remarks and Community Invitation