School of Podcasting - Podcast Tips to Plan, Launch, Grow Your Podcast Head Trash to Headspace: Overcoming Mental Barriers in Podcasting with Doc G.
In this episode, I’m joined by Doc G (Dr. Jordan Grumet), the author of The Purpose Code: How to unlock meaning, maximize happiness, and leave a lasting legacy, to tackle one of the biggest challenges podcasters face—not the technology, not the gear,
- but the mental game.
Whether it's "head trash," imposter syndrome, or the overwhelming pressure to succeed, Doc G shares practical strategies to help you push past mental barriers and create a podcast you truly love.
Doc G shares his journey from a successful medical career to finding purpose and fulfillment in podcasting and writing. Together, we explore how to shift your focus from Big P Podcasting (chasing massive downloads and unrealistic goals) to Little P Podcasting (finding joy in the process and creating meaningful content).
You’ll also hear about:
- The difference between "big P purpose" and "little P purpose"—and why it matters for your podcast.
- How to identify what lights you up and makes your podcast worth doing, even if no one listens.
- Why striving for massive success without joy often leads to burnout.
- Practical tips for overcoming purpose anxiety and building a podcasting routine you love.
More From Doc G
The Purpose Code: How to unlock meaning, maximize happiness, and leave a lasting legacy
The Purpose Code Video Trailer
Because of My Podcast: Zita Christan
Zita does two podcasts: My Spouse Has Dementia and Ritual Recipes. Today, she shares how she was featured in US News and World Report because of her podcast. Paul Wynn had found her podcast (and her transcripts) and interviewed her for his article titled, Easing Holiday Isolation. US News and World Report has approximately 41 million visitors to their site per month. She was also interviewed for another newspaper.
For all things Zita Christian see zitachristian.com
Takeaways:
- The mental barriers that podcasters face often overshadow technical challenges like equipment or hosting.
- Identifying and pursuing little 'p' purposes can lead to a more fulfilling podcasting journey.
- Creating a podcast driven by passion rather than big goals fosters genuine connections with listeners.
- Purpose anxiety can hinder progress, making it crucial to focus on what excites you.
- Engaging deeply with your podcast's content can attract a community that resonates with your message.
- Building a podcast around your interests creates joy and can lead to organic audience growth.
Mentioned In This Episode
The School of Podcasting - Plan, Launch, and Grow Your Podcast.
Doc on the School of Podcasting Interesting AND Unique Doc G Mixes Hospice and Finance
The Purpose Code: How to unlock meaning, maximize happiness, and leave a lasting legacy
School of Podcasting Podcast Launch Checklist
Mentioned in this episode:
Live Appearances
I'd love to meet you in person, I'm currently coming to July 12th, 20025 Higher Ed Podcon, Chicago, Ill AUGUST 18-21, 2025 Podcast Movement, Dallas, TX. September 26-28, 2005, Empowered Podcasting Conference, Uptown Charlotte, NC For more information and links, click the link below. If you'd like for me to speak at an in-person or online event, go to schoolofpodcasting.com/contact
Question of the Month Jne 2025
We hear how great Spotify is, but is it? Let's find out. Go into your media host and see what percentage of your total downloads came from Spotify. We don't need the number of downloads, just the percentage. I need your answer by 6/27/25. Don't forget to tell us a little bit about your show, and your website address.
I Want Your Opinion
I am doing an audience survey and I want your input to help me make this show exactly what you want. If you have a few minutes, I have a quick survey at www.schoolofpodcasting.com/survey25