Episode Details

EPISODE 156 - Starting a Podcast The Right Way with Guest CO-HOST - Nicki van Ingen Schenau From Holland to Japan to Podcaster

In this episode, the conversation with Nicki van Ingen Schenau offers a behind the scenes look at both her unique global journey and her early steps into podcasting. From growing up in the Netherlands to living in Japan and building a successful tour guide business, Nicki brings a multicultural perspective that naturally shapes the vision for her upcoming show, Soaplands and Salarymen.

Her podcast concept is rooted in a desire to go beyond surface level impressions of Japan. Drawing from years of experience on the ground, she shares how many common narratives about Japanese culture are often misunderstood or oversimplified. Through her show, she aims to present a more complete picture that includes the good, the bad, and the nuance that only comes from lived experience. Her storytelling is fueled by real questions she receives from travelers, blending cultural insight with practical guidance on topics like travel, food, and hidden aspects of Japanese life.

As the conversation unfolds, the focus shifts into the practical side of starting a podcast. Nicki openly explores the decisions new creators face, from choosing a hosting platform to understanding distribution through RSS feeds and how episodes reach platforms like Spotify and Apple. The discussion highlights the value of keeping the process simple, using tools that allow creators to upload once and distribute everywhere, while maintaining ownership of their content.

There is also a thoughtful exchange around format and structure. Nicki weighs the pros and cons of live versus pre recorded episodes, recognizing the engagement of live interaction but also the control and flexibility of recorded content. The importance of authenticity stands out as a central theme, as she emphasizes being honest with an audience rather than presenting a filtered version of reality.

The episode also touches on monetization and growth, with a realistic perspective on ads, listener support, and building an audience over time. Rather than rushing into revenue strategies, the conversation reinforces focusing on value, consistency, and connection first.

Throughout, Nicki’s curiosity and willingness to learn “the right way” drives the conversation, making this episode both practical and relatable for anyone starting out.

Key takeaway:
Starting a podcast successfully is less about having everything figured out and more about building a clear purpose, staying authentic, and using simple systems that allow you to consistently show up and improve over time.

A great conversation around starting a podcast

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicki-yoshihara/

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