Starting a podcast would have been ideal back in 2013. But is it worth it to start one in 2023? Espree Devora, host of the Women in Tech podcast, says yes… and here’s why.

Espree isn’t just a host; she’s a beacon of empowerment for women in tech. She’s got over a decade of podcasting experience and 700+ published episodes. So, we invited her onto Uncapped Notes to learn how early-stage founders can create a podcast to grow their startups. 

Where should you start? 

With so many urgent tasks on your plate, starting a podcast might feel like a distraction. To make it worth your time, we need to ensure the podcast provides a good return on investment (ROI). That’s why Espree introduced a framework called Triangle of Purpose. 

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The three corners include the things you typically see in any successful podcast: you, your audience, and your guest (if you decide to have guests). This is podcasting 101.

But let’s dive deeper. What’s your philanthropic why (your higher purpose)? What’s your selfish why (your personal drive)? Yeah, you need both. You need to be mission-driven AND personally invested to sustain a podcast year after year.

Here’s how Espree answers these same questions as they relate to her podcast, Women in Tech:

Espree’s “philanthropic why”

She wants to show listeners the opportunities that exist and what things are actually possible. The tagline for the Women in Tech podcast is “If she can do it, so can I.”

Espree’s “selfish why”

This gets personal. Espree has experienced so much pain as a female founder trying to raise money, secure resources, and find community. She has a strong desire to help other women avoid this same level of struggle.

How to define success as a new podcaster

Let’s face it, you’re not going to have Joe Rogan’s numbers in your first month. But that doesn’t mean you can’t score some serious wins. Before you hit “record”, define what success means to you. 

This could look like:

• More sales for your upcoming book launch
• Building a deeper relationship with your customers
• Establishing yourself as a thought leader to book speaking gigs

After you define your goals, you might realize you don’t need 100,000 monthly listeners to find success. And that’s great! 

If “success” to you means 5 new speaking gigs at conferences in your industry, then your podcast could be a success even if it never goes viral. Keep track of your progress and don’t lose sight of what success looks like to you. 

Just ship it

Even with years of experience, imposter syndrome creeps in for everyone… even Espree. This is completely normal. The trick is to embrace your imperfections and share your story regardless.

Espree recommends leaning into the messy journey because that’s where the magic happens. And at the end of the day, the people who show up and do the work are the ones who make the most impact. 

So drop that mic (or more realistically, speak into one) and start your podcast in the new year. Send us a link when you get it going.