When Apple Podcasts announced it’s integrating a new video experience into the app, Elisa felt called to open up the conversation regarding video podcasting in general, on the podcast.

In this episode, Elisa is putting on her podcast manager hat to unpack the bigger conversation—because while video may be the next chapter of podcasting, that doesn’t automatically mean you have to turn your show into a full production studio.

As the CEO and founder of ZealCast Studios, Elisa has worked behind the scenes on both audio and video podcasts for years. And her hot take? You don’t need a video podcast to start—or to succeed. Yes, there are clear benefits, especially on platforms like YouTube, but podcasting at its core has always been about human connection, meaningful conversations, and creating content that keeps listeners coming back week after week. A beautiful studio and polished visuals won’t save a show that lacks clarity, strategy, and substance.

If you’ve been feeling the pressure to “keep up” or wondering whether you’re falling behind without video, this episode will feel like a deep exhale. Short story long; ignore the noise, build the show that works for you, and remember why you started podcasting in the first place.

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Apply to be a guest on the show!

Connect with Elisa on Instagram 

Follow ZealCast Studios on Instagram

Visit ZealCast Studios’ Website

Settle in for a conversation that feels like two friends catching up over coffee. Elisa sits down with Karley, marketing strategist and founder of Bud to Bloom Marketing, to talk about the real and messy seasons of entrepreneurship. From starting as a side hustle while juggling a 9–5, to taking the leap full-time, and even hitting the point where you want to burn it all down, this episode covers it all. They share the moments that nobody talks about: the self-doubt, the social media comparison, and the personal growth that comes with running your own business.

Karley shares her entrepreneurial journey from fire protection engineering to building a thriving marketing business, and together they dive into what it really takes to trust yourself, set boundaries, and figure out your own path. They laugh, they get real, and they remind you that the messy parts are often where the growth happens. If you’ve ever wondered if you’re the only one struggling, questioning your worth, or figuring out the next step, this conversation is for you.

No matter what season of entrepreneurship you’re in, the message is simple: your journey is your own, and it doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. Grab your coffee, get comfy, and listen to two business besties get honest about the highs, the lows, and everything in between.

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Go Watch Karley’s YouTube Channel!!! 

Connect with Karley on Instagram

Visit Bud To Bloom Marketing’s Website

Get Your Free Marketing Diagnostic Here!

Connect with Elisa on Instagram 

Follow ZealCast Studios on Instagram

Visit ZealCast Studios’ Website

Let’s dive in deeper on the wedding plans! Today, we’re continuing on with the “I Do” Diaries Series to chat more about choosing an intimate, non-traditional destination wedding in Alaska, navigating family conversations, vendor decisions, and the emotional rollercoaster of wedding dress shopping. You’ll hear how they planned a week-long experience for their closest people, and what it really looks like to design a wedding day that feels true to you, even when expectations (and opinions) come into play.

This episode also pulls back the curtain on how Elisa found her Alaska-based photographer and wedding planner through Instagram, why vendor recommendations matter more than you think, and the powerful mindset shift of viewing the couple as guests of honor—not hosts. Plus, she shares the full story of saying yes to the dress (after multiple stores, multiple styles, and a few unexpected emotions), along with honest advice for future brides navigating the pressure, nerves, and noise that often come with dress shopping.

Whether you’re planning a wedding, dreaming of a destination celebration, or simply love real, reflective conversations about choosing what feels right for your life, this episode is a reminder to always choose what makes you feel the confident version of yourself.

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Our Wedding Photographer: Rachel Struve Photography

Our Wedding Planner: Events By Ayla

Check Out Ivory Rose Bridal Boutique! 

Apply to be a guest on the show!

Connect with Elisa on Instagram 

Follow ZealCast Studios on Instagram

Visit ZealCast Studios’ Website

After fifteen years together — including a breakup, a five-year long-distance season, and more than one moment where the proposal almost happened — Elisa shares the full backstory of her relationship with her fiancé and the long road that led to their engagement. From high school sweethearts and military life to waiting seasons, missed expectations, and learning to let go of control, this episode traces the journey to “yes” and the mountain moment where everything finally aligned. Their love story even mirrors Love Story by Taylor Swift, making this chapter feel both nostalgic and meant to be.

This episode kicks off the newest series on the podcast, The I Do Diaries — an audio journal created to document this once-in-a-lifetime season of engagement. While this first episode focuses on the relationship backstory and engagement story, upcoming episodes will dive into specific moments, emotions, and experiences throughout wedding planning, offering honest reflections, personal insights, and real-time processing along the way.

So grab a fun drink, get comfortable, and press play — and be sure to listen all the way through so you don’t miss the very special announcement at the end.

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Apply to be a guest on the show!

Connect with Elisa on Instagram 

Follow ZealCast Studios on Instagram

Visit ZealCast Studios’ Website

Let’s talk about the realities of launching a podcast: the planning (or lack there of), the technical details, the mental challenges, and strategies that can help you launch your own podcast! Today, Elisa is pulling back the curtain and letting you in on how this podcast really came to be – Spoiler alert: it may not be what you’re expecting!   

Even as a podcast manager herself, Elisa didn’t have the smoothest launch plan. From abandoned ideas and last-minute decisions to recording and editing episodes just days before launch, this episode is a reminder that done is better than perfect.

She also talks about the mental and emotional challenges she didn’t expect when stepping into the role of podcast host. She opens up about imposter syndrome, perfectionism, fear of being seen, and the discomfort of learning how to receive celebration for something she created.

If you’ve been thinking about starting a podcast, launching a new project, or taking a step that feels scary but meaningful, this episode will encourage you to take messy action and go for it, even if you don’t feel ready. Remember, done is better than perfect!

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Apply to be a guest on the show!

Connect with Elisa on Instagram 

Follow ZealCast Studios on Instagram

Visit ZealCast Studios’ Website

Welcome to the very first episode of Short Story Long — Always! It’s so crazy to be finally typing this out! This is a podcast for women navigating life, career, motherhood, and all the seasons in-between. In this introductory episode, you’ll meet your host of the show, Elisa, a podcast manager, creative entrepreneur, and founder of ZealCast Studios. This show is a space for honest storytelling, deep conversations, and community-driven growth.

To kick things off, Elisa shares the story behind Short Story Long and her personal journey from healthcare burnout to building a podcast management agency rooted in purpose and connection. She opens up about burnout, mental health, “superhero syndrome,” identity beyond titles, and why storytelling plays such a powerful role in healing, growth, and self-discovery.

This episode sets the foundation for a podcast that blends personal storytelling with meaningful conversations around entrepreneurship, motherhood, mental health, personal growth, and the things we were never taught in school. Each week, Short Story Long, Always meets you exactly where you are, offering relatable stories, encouragement, and inspiration to remind you that you’re not alone.

If looking to feel seen, dive into storytelling, and build community, then you’re in the right place! Grab your coffee and get cozy, because here, “long story short” just simply doesn’t exist! 

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Apply to be a guest on the show!

Connect with Elisa on Instagram 

Follow ZealCast Studios on Instagram

Visit ZealCast Studios’ Website

Welcome to the podcast where "long story short" simply does not exist! We're diving into the full stories and not skipping a single detail!

Short Story Long, Always was created for the woman trying to navigate all the aspects of life. It's the space where people can come and feel seen, inspired, learn, and then be motivated to put it into action.

Episodes are coming soon mid-January 2026! Thank you so much for being here!