My 6 Biggest Takeaways From 3+ Years & 3 Million Downloads

I feel so damn lucky to do what I do.

Yesterday in a podcast interview, someone asked me what some of the biggest lessons I’ve learned creating Hurdle have been. I figured I’d jot them down for you, here:

1. Always make the ask: If you don't ask — you don't get. Put your pride aside and do the hard thing. Remember: If someone says "no," that doesn't necessarily mean forever. It might just mean "no for now." I’ve certainly navigated some tough “no” emails and calls over the past few years, which sting extra when they come from people you admire. Keep your chin up. Do the best you can with what you have. Don’t let one “I can’t,” prevent you from going after the other things you want.

2. Always remember — quality of your conversation is more important than quality of your audio: "People will listen to wonky-sounding content (within reason) with great takeaways. It's the bad content that sounds great that isn't worth their time." (This wisdom came from Bob Abbate minutes before a 2019 interview when my microphone died.)

3. Don’t let a feel of failing hold you back: I’ve launched a ton of stuff a la Eric Ries Lean Start-Up mode, jumping before I was ready to see if interest was there and examine potential pay-offs. Every single time, I was frightened. However, every single time I’ve been happy with the choice to lean into discomfort and try something new. In 2020, I went from a twice- to thrice-weekly podcast, released a weekly newsletter, started a book club, and launched digital courses and workshops. All of these things scared me, and aspects of all of them needed to be rejiggered post-launch. However, there were so, so many lessons along the way.

4. Never burn a bridge: You never know when someone may come back around, whether that's a potential guest, sponsor, or other collaborative agency. Stay kind. That manner could lead you down new, exciting roads.

5. You have to be your own biggest cheerleader: Self promotion will always feel a little iffy. But, if you aren't promoting your own material, then you can't expect others to. Stand tall, be confident in your product.

6. Engaging with your audience is critical: Just because you're the person with the microphone doesn't mean that you're not having a two-way conversation. Lean into your listeners for feedback, engage with them on social media, and establish regular contact with your biggest fans.

And so, here we go — season five! I’ve got more hurdles to conquer and a lot more inspiring to do. To all of those who have been a part of this journey so far, thank you. Please, continue to share the word and if you have anyone that you think I should connect with — I’m always all ears.

Keep hurdling,
Em