When Things Don’t Go to Plan

Hey there, Podjunction family,

Ever hit a moment where it felt like this whole podcasting thing was too much? Where the planning, editing, and late nights had you wondering… why am I doing this? I’ve asked myself this question more than once, especially in those tough moments where things just don’t go as planned.

But over time, I’ve come to see that the real growth in podcasting doesn’t come from the perfect episodes. It’s in those unexpected bumps, the moments where things don’t go to plan, that we find the silver linings. Sometimes, when the overwhelm kicks in, it feels like I’m trying to paint a mural with a toothbrush. It’s exhausting and can make you feel small, but I’ve learned to see it as a sign of growing pains—proof that I’m pushing beyond my comfort zone, even if it’s just one small step at a time.

Like many of us, I’ve had days where giving up felt easier. I remember one guest episode where it seemed like everything that could go wrong… did! From scheduling to last-minute tech issues, I was sure it was a bust. But in the end, it turned into one of my favorite conversations and taught me more than I expected. And if you’re wondering, I’m referring to my conversation with Peter Murphy Lewis.

But today, I want you to consider the journey of a fellow podcaster I admire, Steven Pemberton. In his early days, he recorded episodes more like journal entries than polished productions, with only a handful of listeners tuning in. But something about his honesty kept him coming back to the mic, driven by a passion to connect. Over time, his podcast grew—and so did he. It wasn’t a straight line, but rather a winding road of self-discovery and learning.

For all of us, the podcasting path is rarely straightforward. It’s a beautiful, messy journey that keeps us on our toes. When I hit a roadblock, I ask myself these three questions to keep moving forward:

• What’s one small step I can take, even if it’s tiny?

• What’s the silver lining in this moment?

• And, who can I turn to for advice or support?

If Steven’s story resonates, you can hear more about his journey in a recent episode on Podjunction’s website. It’s a testament to the strength that comes from finding silver linings and a reminder that the best growth often comes in the least expected moments.

I’d love to hear from you—what have you learned when things didn’t go to plan? Looking forward to hearing your stories, your challenges, and your victories. We’re all in this together, learning and evolving one episode at a time.

Reply to this email or let’s connect on Instagram | @iamsadafbeynon and LinkedIn | @sadafbeynon 

Here’s to the highs, the lows, and everything in between!

Cheers,
Sadaf Beynon
Host | Podjunction Podcast