Meet Jacqueline Smith | Podcast Coach and Grief Advocate

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jacqueline Smith and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jacqueline, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I actually pursued a business career with a specialty in Human Resources. The logistical, analytical side of me never considered myself to be artistic or creative until after writing my first book. That experience led to hosting a radio show which then led to hosting not one but two podcasts then producing podcasts for others as well as teaching and coaching on podcasting. I now thrive in the creative process of podcasting and quite enjoy teaching and coaching others on this medium.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I never considered myself to be a creative person. It was not until after I wrote my first book that I started to tap into my creative side. Following the publication of that book, I had the opportunity to host a weekly radio show. I quickly realized through that experience, that did not work for me as I had to be in a quiet place at the same time each week to broadcast the show.

During the year I broadcast the show, I started investigating podcasting. That was it! I could still get my message out but could record episodes anytime, anywhere. Those first few episodes were not wonderful. The software I used at the time did not allow the option to add an Intro and Outro which was also a bit of a challenge.

As I got more experience, recorded and published more episodes, I learned how to do more and add more features. Those experiences led to others asking for assistance with producing their podcasts and an additional business was born. From there, I started being asked to teach podcasting to others, how to get started, things to think about when podcasting, as well as things to watch out for.

I now hold podcasting webinars, classes, challenges, and retreats.

The opportunities in podcasting are absolutely endless! Almost ANY industry or topic can be addressed through podcasting. Of the approximately 850,000 active podcasts in the world, only 2-3% of those are podcasters of color. And of that number, there are even fewer faith-based podcasts hosted by those of color.

It has absolutely not been easy. A few challenges include, no-show interview guests, learning how to use the editing software, finding the right podcast host. Most of these challenges were overcome by trial and error, continual research, and practice. The no-show interview guest issue was solved primarily by requiring a fee for guests to schedule an interview.

Another challenge was timely broadcasting of episodes. Getting behind with recording or editing interview episodes. This was solved primarily with both time management and batch recording/editing.

I have learned that time management, goal setting, and planning are important practices to master.

I want the world to know that there is a place in podcasting for almost EVERYONE. We primarily work with Christian women in planning, producing, promoting, and profiting from their podcasts. Whatever is going on in your life, those experiences can be used in podcasting.

I currently host three podcasts, “Cast Iron Skillet Chronicles”, “Triumph Through Tears”, and “Christian Women Podcasters of Color”

“Cast Iron Skillet Chronicles” was created to inspire and encourage those women of a certain age to move forward with writing that book, starting that business, starting that non-profit, starting that speaking career, starting that coaching or consulting business.

My message: Don’t give up, circumstances, experiences, and situations arise that could throw you off track to achieving the plans God has for you. October 31, 2019, my 22-year-old daughter was killed in a car accident. There were many times I felt like giving up, crawling into bed with the covers pulled up over my head for the rest of my life. However, that would not honor her life or memory. Both she and God are watching. As much as my heart is shattered, it’s not about me. It is about those to whom I have been assigned with the remaining time I have left here on earth and since tomorrow is not promised, so I can’t give up today. Podcasting is a way to fulfill the mission and mandate the Lord has placed on my heart and hands.

That does not mean that I don’t have my moments. Trust and believe, I absolutely do have those times I shut out the world that keeps turning and moving to not pretend that everything is alright when it is not. The thing is, that by the grace of God I don’t stay there.

Get started today for tomorrow is not promised.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Being relatively new to this area, it would be an adventure for both of us, exploring new eateries off the beaten path, and places to visit or hang out.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My husband, Darrell Smith My Mom, Gerri Belden
My Son, Stefan Warfield
My family
Apostle Parice Parker and Make Time to Pray
Christonya Graham for recommending me

Website: https://lswmediagroup.com

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