Shows
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceHow to Keep Fear From Overpowering Your Voice with Kat Stewart and Kevin RibbleWhat are you afraid of when you’re recording your podcast? Training your voice doesn’t start with what comes out of your mouth—it starts with what’s going on in your head. Mary learned this 25 years ago from her radio school instructors, Kat Stewart and Kevin Ribble. In this episode, her former teachers take the mic to talk about finding your charisma and confidence as a podcaster and the vocal impact of fear and judgment. Kat and Kevin want to make the world a better place, one confident, impactful podcast host at a time. Their insights...
2025-10-0638 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceVoice Prep for a Personality-Driven Podcast That PopsHow do you make your personality shine through as soon as you hit record? The podcast world is always evolving—that’s what happens when a baby industry grows up! For better or worse, audio-first media is changing constantly, and the latest shift involves Amazon’s decision to shut down the Wondery podcast studio. This kicks off a move away from those shows heavy on the music, sound effects, and research, toward more personality-driven podcasts. Like yours! This is great news, because that special kind of pod that people tune in to for the host (which recent researc...
2025-09-2211 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceFinding Joy in the Serious Work of PodcastingHow can reflecting on your podcast journey spark delight in your success? The process of podcasting is serious business. You have to be laser-focused on all the pieces of the spiral—from brainstorming topics to marketing the published episode to starting the next one—and sometimes the subject matter gets dark, especially in the daunting uncertainty of our modern world. But at the end of the day, if you don’t enjoy what you’re creating, the overwhelm that will come up eventually is going to keep you from coming back. That’s why Mary is dedicating her 100th e...
2025-06-3022 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceCanadian Identity in the Indie Podcasting Ecosystem with Kattie LaurWhat differentiates Canadian podcasters from their American counterparts, eh? If you think about the first podcast that comes to mind, there’s a pretty good chance it’s American. That’s because podcasting tends to feel—and in many ways actually is—pretty U.S.-centric. But that certainly doesn’t mean there aren’t a ton of fantastic, groundbreaking Canadian podcasters in the industry. From the struggle to identify Canada-specific resources to the future of marketing metrics, join Mary for a must-listen episode for every podcaster seeking to set their show apart. Listen to fellow Canuck Kattie Laur as...
2025-06-1646 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceImprove Your Interviews With Open-Ended QuestionsWhat kinds of questions do you ask your podcast guests? The most engaging podcast episodes—the ones that make for the best conversations and the best listening—are the ones that contain great stories. As the host, you’re always aiming to draw all those details and deep disclosures from your guest. So why does getting the full picture sometimes feel like pulling teeth? Mary recently taught her nine-year-old daughter how asking more specific questions will get her the answers she wants, and that conversation prompted this episode’s exploration. An open-ended question—the kind that requires a more thor...
2025-06-0215 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceEmbrace Curiosity to Grow a Vibrant Podcast Community with Chidinma AzubuikeHow can curiosity and commitment to your listener drive your show’s growth? From guest selection to generating advertising revenue, the process of running your own podcast is always challenging and fascinating, and it often calls on you to take big chances. That’s exactly what Chidinma Azubuike discovered when she started “But What Do I Know?” back in 2020. Her willingness to keep trying new tactics has paid off—all while working toward her primary goal of fostering a vibrant and thriving listener community. In this episode, Mary sits down with Chidinma to talk show prep, rebrands, and the dif...
2025-05-1937 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoicePodcast on Pause? How To Restart or Reimagine Your ShowWhat does coming back strong from a podcast hiatus look like? In the day-to-day chaos of our lives—balancing work, family, personal time, household upkeep, etc, etc—it’s perfectly understandable if it feels like a bit much to plan, record, publish, and market a podcast on top of that. If you’re thinking about pressing pause on your show, or you already have, rest assured, you can take that step without derailing your past progress. In this episode, Mary talks you through how to put your show on hiatus and set yourself up to return strong. Whether y...
2025-05-0518 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceGenerative AI: Understanding the Future of Podcasting with Amanda CupidoHow are you using or avoiding artificial intelligence in your podcast? AI is a shiny new offering with loads of possibilities, but a lot of people are also understandably threatened by its wide-reaching and ever-growing abilities. On today’s episode, Mary connects with Amanda Cupido, an adjunct professor, TEDx speaker, podcast producer, and author of the book “Let’s Talk Podcasting.” Amanda has her finger firmly on the pulse of all things new in the world of podcasts, and she shares her deeply researched insights on the pros and cons of welcoming generative AI into our shows—just how wi...
2025-04-2142 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceBe More Choosy About Your Podcast GuestsHow can you take your guest episodes beyond a basic Q&A? When you think of a podcast, what comes to mind? If “a mic and two people talking” is your first thought, you’re in good company, but in this episode, Mary encourages you to expand that definition. Your show is about so much more than the interview. That one-time guest isn’t the person who keeps listeners coming back week after week—that’s you! So, how can you use strategic guest selection to leverage the values, interests, and timing of both the host and the listener? When y...
2025-04-0717 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceGet Serious About Being a Podcast Guest with Julie FryWhat’s the right way to go about being a guest on other podcasts? When’s the last time you went on another show as a guest? As a podcast host, it’s easy to get bogged down in the day-to-day requirements of running a podcast. After all, you’re expected to find guests, record episodes, edit episodes, post everything online, and find fresh ways to get the word out. Here’s the good news: being a guest on other podcasts is an excellent way to market your own show. Need more convincing? In this episode, we spell out t...
2025-03-2437 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceAdd Video To Your Podcast with IntentionVideo has taken podcasting by storm, but how do you know if it's right for your show? As a podcaster, how are you interacting with and utilizing video? More and more, we’re hearing about creators tacking on this visual element, and platforms like YouTube and Spotify are eagerly showcasing all the success stories of podcasters giving their audience a fresh way to consume content. Sure, it’s relatively easy and inexpensive to get your hands on video recording equipment these days, and it’s straightforward to drop the final video into platforms like YouTube. But what about...
2025-03-1019 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoicePodcast Marketing Without Social Media with Amanda LairdHow do you know if social media is really worth it? Social media inundates almost every aspect of our lives these days, from communicating with friends to deciding what to listen to, watch, or buy—all the way down the line to actually listening to, watching, and buying it. So, of course, many podcast creators worry that leaving social media behind is an enormous marketing faux pas. But what if it isn’t? Amanda Laird is the marketing pro behind Slow and Steady Studio. She wields more than two decades of PR and management experience to help small...
2025-02-2446 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceYour Podcast As Your Own Media PlatformWhat shifts in podcasting have you noticed in the last few months? In the first episode of 2025, Mary dives right into the changes we’ve seen in podcasting just since last fall. More and more hosts are leaning into partisan politics and using their shows to share their thoughts and concerns with a huge audience. This has further legitimized the industry, similar to when celebrities started to don the mantle of podcast host several years back. This mainstream growth has a real impact on your show, even if you aren’t interviewing Canada’s Prime Minister or the Dem...
2025-02-1019 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceAccessibility in Podcasting for Hard-of-Hearing Listeners with Kellina PowellHow can you make your podcast more accessible to people who are deaf and hard of hearing? It goes without saying that we don’t know what we don’t know. When it comes to how people with auditory differences—such as those who are deaf and hard of hearing—interact with our podcasts, the only way to learn how to do better and make those episodes more accessible is to ask. And that’s exactly what this episode does. Kellina Powell is an author and speaker who helps deaf and hard-of-hearing women express themselves with confidence in a hearin...
2024-11-2532 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceFind Podcast Success While Doing LessWhat could doing less look like for your podcast? Life is chaos these days. The hours often seem to fill up instantly with all the things on your plate, so don’t feel bad if publishing podcast episodes start to slide to the bottom of your to-do list. Stumbling on the podcasting flow is totally normal—and totally fixable. The good news is that you can cut back on your workload and still release an impactful, exciting show. Curbing the number of hours you spend prepping, recording, editing, publishing, and promoting doesn’t have to result in lower-q...
2024-11-1123 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceWarm Up to a Healthier, More Confident Voice with Nic RedmanWhat can you do to keep your voice in tip-top shape? As podcasters, we use our voices a lot. Chances are, that essential instrument of yours has temporarily abandoned you in the past. Whether the symptom stems from getting sick or from overuse, waking up to croaks, rasps, or silence is an awful feeling, especially if deadlines or interviews are looming. In this timely episode, Mary returns to the mic on the heels of her own voice loss to talk swollen vocal folds and slug tongue with Nic Redman, a vocal coach and voiceover artist who has spent almost 20 y...
2024-10-2842 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceVoice Health: Treat Your Podcasting Instrument With CareHow much do you prioritize your vocal health? Most of us, even if we work in the voice acting, podcasting, or broadcast industries, don’t think too much about our voices. But remember: if you don’t have a voice, you don’t have a podcast! In this episode, Mary breaks down what we can all do to take better care of our most important business asset. The solution can’t be to never speak or raise your voice except while you work, but preemptive planning, some mind-body connection, and a little (or a lot of) self-love go a long...
2024-10-1415 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceSimplify Your Workflow to Keep Your Podcasting Passion Alive with Craig ConstantineHow do conversation skills make your podcast process more enjoyable? Even if we’re lucky enough to “do what we love,” work tends to have tedious aspects we don’t like. Craig Constantine is a passion podcaster who, through the creation of thousands of episodes and rigorous reflection, has built a workflow that simplifies every step of his method, from prep to publication. A consummate conversationalist, Craig’s overarching goal is to use understanding and compassion to have exciting exchanges that inspire listeners to dive directly into meaningful dialogues. In this episode, he gets into the nitty-gritty of the pers...
2024-09-3041 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoicePodcast Manners Matter: Setting Guest ExpectationsHow do you create clear and open communication with your podcast guest? Every podcast—and every episode, for that matter—has a lot of moving parts. As podcast hosts, we know that in order to stay organized, we need systems in place. But those systems should extend to more than your recording and editing tools, and how you publish your episode. You need systems in place for your guest interactions, too. An unfortunate experience shared by a fellow podcast host prompts Mary to explore podcast etiquette and guest/host interactions. She outlines how to approach this important relat...
2024-09-1616 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceFill In the Listener Survey! Win Prizes! - BONUS EpisodePart of podcasting is to review and audit your show. How are your listeners growing alongside you? So a little reminder that I need your help! My show also needs an audit and so I'm looking for your feedback. Your comments will guide me to support you with your show! A ripple effect!! And as a thank you for taking your time to share your thoughts, although the survey is anonymous, if you enter your details for this giveaway, this will provide one entry for you to win a deck of my Voice Connection Cards. This deck o...
2024-09-0503 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceHow to Audit Your Podcast EffectivelyHow do you make sure your show evolves along with your listener? As an independent podcast creator, chances are you wear a lot of hats. You’re the host, of course, as well as the producer, the audio editor, the marketer, the designer… When you’re so focused on doing all the things for your show, it can be easy to forget that your podcast isn’t about you at all. It’s about your listener. Being a podcaster means you’re responsible not just for putting out a show you think your ideal listener will connect with, but fo...
2024-07-0823 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceStart a Ripple Effect of Continuous Learning with Beth Cougler BlomHow can activating your beginner’s mind help you facilitate an authentic podcast experience? For many podcast hosts, the draw of creating a show is two-fold: we are eager to engage with and educate our listeners on topics we’re passionate about, and we look forward to the personal learning and professional development our interviews and solo episodes can foster. Beth Cougler Blom is a facilitator, learning designer, and author crafting impactful learning experiences for organizations making a difference in the world. She also funnels her passion for transformational learning into her own podcast, Facilitating on Purpose. In th...
2024-06-2439 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceLevel Up Your Listening Skills to Improve Your PodcastHow has being a podcaster changed how you listen? There are plenty of ways AI can make podcasters’ lives easier, but there’s one human ability Mary firmly believes AI will never be able to replicate (or at least not for a very long time): true listening. We humans have the incredible potential to distill the emotional impact underlying the words a person speaks. Artificial intelligence bots, on the other hand, can only record the words themselves and “react” with whatever follow-up is programmed into their databanks. As podcasters, we learn to hear and listen differently than other peop...
2024-06-1023 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoicePodcast Transcripts and the Future of Accessible AudioHow can transcripts positively impact your podcast? Podcasts have always had an audio-first following, but as-is, audio isn’t accessible for everyone. In the wake of Apple Podcasts’ announcement to begin including transcripts with their latest update, it seems likely other platforms will begin to follow suit. This raises an important question for podcast creators: is it worth preparing transcripts for each of your episodes? After two years of exploring transcripts for her and her clients’ productions, Mary dives into their potential to transform both creator and listener experiences. You’ll hear (or read!) about everything from SEO (sear...
2024-05-1319 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceAudiobook Inspiration to Master Your MicrophoneWhat’s the connection between audiobooks and podcasts? You already know the right tone and voice is essential for building a connection with your listeners. It just makes sense, then, that you can turn to different kinds of audio media for inspiration when looking to further hone your skills behind the mic. Take, for example, audiobooks. Especially in the last year or so, the connection between audiobooks and podcasts has expanded beyond the shared audio medium. Platforms like Spotify are putting a lot of their chips on audiobooks, and podcasters need to start considering this angle more clo...
2024-04-1520 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceWriting For Your Podcast with Shannon KirkHow do you create the written content for your podcast? You’ve probably heard actors say that they can’t bring themselves to watch their own films. As a podcast host, maybe you relate to the cringe factor that comes from listening to your episodes after you’ve recorded them, but if you’ve decided to write episode-accompanying blog posts and show notes yourself, you don’t have that luxury—you have to tune back in. And if you don’t consider yourself A Writer, this process can feel a bit overwhelming. Shannon Kirk is the writer behind the blo...
2024-04-0143 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceBetter Writing For Podcasting: Takeaways From Radio SchoolHow do you write for your podcast when you’re “not a writer”? A lot of podcast hosts are drawn to the audio medium because they have always felt they can express themselves better and more easily through speaking than through writing. In this episode, Mary shares how a lackluster introduction to writing in her youth spurred her into radio—she wanted to speak instead of write! Then, she discovered that radio and podcasting still call for a fair bit of writing. Facing that demon created the a-ha moment that led Mary to fine-tune a writing-for-speaking approach that work...
2024-03-1821 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceSpeak With Spirit: Stop Editing Out Your Authentic VoiceThe 2024 podcasting season is gearing up to be an exciting one, with lots of changes on the horizon. New ventures like YouTube integration have raised this huge existential question—what is a podcast? And while this fresh take brings up questions of video components, RSS feeds, and more—at the end of the day, the road forward for podcasting is still paved with audio-first emotional connection. In this episode, Mary ties her year-end 2023 values into the exciting future of this innovative medium, underscoring the power and necessity of remaining authentic and captivating as we use our voices to s...
2024-02-1923 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceCelebrating with Values to Nourish Your Podcast - Year End BreakWhat values are at the heart of your podcast? As 2023 draws to a close, most of us are preparing for some kind of annual review, whether it’s for our business or our personal lives. When you’re looking back on your professional or family values and how they showed up this year, don’t forget your podcast! With all those moving parts, your show is almost like a business in and of itself. That means it deserves its own values. In the final episode of the year, Mary explores how to identify those values and incorporate them in...
2023-12-1817 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceIntangible Values of a Podcast: What It Means For Stats, Metrics, and MonetizationWhat metrics are you using to measure your podcast’s success? Podcasting is a fantastic business marketing option. It’s a uniquely transparent and personal way to showcase your thought leadership, your services, and your authentic self—all without having to style your hair. Like any marketing strategy, podcasters inevitably want to see how successful their show is, and it’s understandable that they turn to popular metrics like downloads to figure this out. In this episode, Mary breaks down why traditional advertising-focused stats might not be the best pick for independent podcasters. Instead, she suggests exploring value-bas...
2023-11-2015 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceFind Your Purpose and Impact with Podcasting with Shobna KannusamyHow well do you know your ideal podcast listener? If you can figure out—like, really, deeply identify—the purpose of your podcast and who you’re creating it for, you’ll discover the huge impact this can have on your show’s success; it helps make every part super cohesive, from selecting your guests and topics, to reaching your ideal audience, to achieving personal growth along the way. Multi-hyphenate entrepreneur Shobna Kannusamy has experienced all these benefits firsthand while creating her podcast, Colour Me Brave, where she amplifies the voices of women of colour through conversations that dive...
2023-11-0642 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceOrganic Discovery for PodcastsHow are you helping new listeners discover your podcast? When the news dropped that Google Podcasts would be shutting down in early 2024 (RIP), the industry was a-buzz. Google’s upcoming relocation of podcasts to YouTube Music will mean impactful changes for podcast creators, but those changes don’t have to be negative! Mary breaks down what was great about Google Podcasts and how you can make sure your show’s organic discovery doesn’t suffer in this shift. You’ll want to save this episode for future reference—it’s packed with tons of practical suggestions! Ready to futu...
2023-10-2320 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceHealing Wounds: You Are Worthy of Being a PodcasterEveryone has that Inner Voice—you know, the one that pipes up now and then to say you aren’t worthy enough, your ideas aren’t worthy enough, to share with the world or on your podcast. Mary has had her own struggle with that negative dialogue, and, to this day, it can sneak in to cast uncertainty on this very podcast. The good news is the process for shifting that inner voice into positive energy, the kind that will fuel your podcasting endeavours, can start right now! We’re going to get emotional as we dive into:
2023-09-2514 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceShare Your Story To Help Others - Summer BreakYour story is yours to share and it can serve a bigger purpose for your listener - it could change their whole world. Getting personal about your stories and experiences can make your listeners feel included, seen, and heard. Even if you prefer to avoid the spotlight, keep in mind that your podcast isn’t about you. It’s about what you can bring to the table through your lived experience. Being vulnerable enough to share a glimpse into what has made you, you, helps build a real connection with your listeners. What will you say today that will help...
2023-07-1018 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoicePermission to Speak to Redefine the Sound of Power with Samara BayThe voice you have today is not the same voice you were born with. The things you experience and the media you're exposed to, all contribute to how you sound and frame what your idea of a powerful voice “should” sound like. But when you step out of the parameters set by culture, and abandon the idea of sounding “professional” you will discover that true power in your voice. Today’s episode is a revolution in how to think about your voice with Samara Bay, author of “Permission to Speak”. We nerd out on redefining what power sounds like, w...
2023-06-2641 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceHow To Land Someone From Your Dream Guest ListReaching out to potential guests to appear on your podcast, especially those on your dream guest list, can feel overwhelming. Where do you start to create the perfect email so that they’ll open up your email and say, “Yes!” Listen in as I unveil my blueprint for reaching out to potential guests so they’ll want to be on your show. Plus, make sure you stay until the end of the episode because you’ll hear a real life example of an email that was sent off, so you'll see how this all works in real life. Key poi...
2023-06-1224 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceWhat's Stopping You from Starting a Podcast? with Kelly GeislerGoing down the rabbit hole of Google can sometimes suck the life out of doing the actual thing you were Googling to do. This happens a lot in podcasting, especially at the start! Whether you haven’t started your podcast yet, are only a few episodes in, or are publishing episodes in the double or triple digits, this episode will unlock your mindset into the world of podcasting. Being able to break up with your self-doubt and escape the “shoulds” of other people's opinions, will be key to creating a successful - and ultimately fulfilling podcast. Unleash your voice upon t...
2023-05-2936 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoicePlanning, Structure, and Mindset Before You Hit Record: a Sample Workflow for Recording Your EpisodesWhen prepping for your next podcast episode there are many steps you might want to consider before you hit record. Implementing a great workflow with structure, planning, and a healthy mindset, will make the recording process so much smoother. It doesn’t matter if you are recording an interview, creating your own solo episode, or even if you have a roundtable of experts, you’ll need a plan to create episodes that your listener is going to love each and every time! Before you hit that record button, learn: The steps you need for planning each epis...
2023-05-1516 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceHow to Speak with Your Body Using the Mind Body Connection with Kathryn YarboroughHow do you connect the mind, body and emotions to push your speaking skills to new heights? Movement in your body plays a huge role in how your podcasting voice gets amplified behind the mic. Becoming in tune with yourself and revealing the healing work that needs to be done, will help you discover a deeper connection with your voice as a podcaster! Holding a true passion for breaking the previously set limits of our minds, Kathryn Yarborough, the creator of Manifesting Clients Academy, talks about listening to your whole body through movement as it holds the...
2023-05-0139 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceWhy What You Wear Matters in PodcastingWhat you wear can affect everything from your mood to your voice itself. As podcasters, constricting or uncomfortable clothing can negatively impact how your voice comes alive. In today’s episode, you'll discover how your clothes impact your voice. Listen in to hear: Why it's important to be comfy and confident in your wardrobe Why you should wear what you love Tips for mic-friendly clothing options Links worth exploring from the episode: Mary's voice workshop at NTEN's 23NTC in Denver https://www.nten.org/gather/ntc/sessions/what-power-really-sounds-like-using-your-voice-to-lead Mac Back Ups - Time Machine ht...
2023-04-1710 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceAttract More Listeners By Building a Compelling Brand for Your Podcast with Lindsay McMahon of All Ears English PodcastHow do you attract more listeners and organically grow your podcast? Despite what popular algorithms will have you believe, success in promoting your podcast does not have to be focused on social media! Come along as we discuss ways to make your podcast branding stand out to grow your show! In today’s episode, we start with the phrase: “Connection, not perfection”, trademarked by Lindsay McMahon. Lindsay is the co-host of All Ears English, a podcast that’s been downloaded 8 million times per month globally and ranked in Best of Apple Podcasts categories in 2018 and 2019, and as well as...
2023-04-0338 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceWhy Reliable Backups are Vital for Your Podcast Episode Production ProcessReliable backups are key for your podcast production process. They can help when you inevitably lose your audio or interviews. When tech issues, human error, or unpredictable circumstances happen, having backups can provide peace of mind for you and your workflow. Avoid the frustration of losing it all when creating your podcast by taking a page from my real-life podcasting disaster! You'll uncover: How backups are a vital part of the podcasting process Programs and processes to implement backups How to add backups into your daily, weekly or monthly tasks for your podcast Connect with...
2023-03-2014 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceHow to Find Your Podcasting Voice: Why Authenticity is 100 Times Better Than a Traditional Radio VoiceWherever you are on your podcasting journey, your voice plays a vital role. It’s your number one instrument for your podcast! Think about it. No voice, no podcast. In this episode, we’ll deep dive into how self-confidence and the opinions of others can impact how we feel about our own voice. Together, let’s go through five super-simple, thought-provoking questions that will help you uncover the pieces of your voice that will make you feel more confident. So get ready to unleash your inner podcasting voice that your listeners will quickly fall in love with. We’ll e...
2023-03-0617 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceDiscernment In Vulnerability When You're Behind the Mic with Lizzie Allan of HilarapyFeelings are great for when you're behind the microphone. But when it comes down to being behind the mic, how much do you reveal? That can get a little tricky when you haven't worked through what's really holding you back. My guest today coined the term Hilarapy, the creation of comedy as therapy. Lizzie Allan is a self-designed comedy therapist and professional comedian. Whilst embracing her own healing journey from madness and addiction, she discovered that comedy and vulnerability had the power to change the world. We also reveal what it’s like to: Take...
2022-12-1942 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceCode Switching - Change Your Voice Behind the MicA new to me phrase is “code-switching,” a term I learnt recently about cultural differences in speech. It’s where you switch from one language to the next or adopt both languages at the same time interchangeably. But what about beyond racial culture and language? The culture of your community and who you are actually speaking to? It's something we all do in everyday situations and in podcasting, you code-switch a lot more than you think. Connect with Mary! Leave a voicemail with your feedback at https://www.speakpipe.com/VisibleVoice Or email visiblevoicepodcast@gmail.com Engage...
2022-12-0613 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceHoning Your Podcast Voice Though Second Language Learning with Stephanie FuccioNo matter your background or the experience level you have to start a podcast, you have a wealth of knowledge to bring to the table. Think of the many past experiences you’ve had up until this point - all of which can be beneficial for your show. That experience isn't only what's on your resume, but also what you're taught by your community - classmates, teachers, and even your parents. My guest today is Stephanie Fuccio, an American podcast editor and podcaster, currently living in Europe. Before podcasting, Stephanie taught English language skills to adults while li...
2022-11-2135 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceStop Thinking About YourselfAs humans, we are people pleasers. We want connection, community, and a feeling of belonging. As young kids, we do things to please our parents, our teachers, and friends. Then as adults, we want to fulfill the needs of our bosses, partners (romantic or otherwise), and so on. Podcasting can have that same reflection. We want to delight our listeners, teach or entertain them with our thoughts and stories. But when you think about how you feel and how you may sound, all of those feelings impact your listeners and how they feel. It's not about you...
2022-11-0810 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceOvercoming Fear and Stigma To Tell Your Story with Jay ShifmanWhen you hit that record button, how does stigma play a role in keeping your story to yourself? What if you can choose to ignore that stigma and be open and vulnerable behind the mic? My guest today is Jay Shifman, a vulnerable storyteller and the host of the Choose Your Struggle podcast. In our conversation, Jay shares his experience about his speaking and podcasting journey that reveals how to use effective storytelling to break down walls and stereotypes, why the fear of oversharing plays a part in the role of stigma, and how his transition from...
2022-10-2438 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceChallenge What a Powerful Voice Sounds LikeWhen you’re behind the mic, how often do you second guess yourself, pause and try not to say those ums and uhs? Or you put on your “podcast host” hat and start speaking with a different voice? In today's episode, I break down the limiting beliefs about what makes a “strong voice” so we can rewrite our subconscious brain about what we believe that is. You’ll learn how to reclaim your voice and go from being restricted and nervous to being magnetic and unapologetically yourself behind the mic. The idea of what power sounds like these days is...
2022-10-1014 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceNormalizing Stuttering for Verbal Diversity with Maya ChupkovHow we perceive strong and confident voices gets manipulated from the big screen and from everyday media. These platforms tinker with our minds to make us think that certain voices or tones represent one way of strength or weakness. And the media will have us all believe that self-assured, confident people sound smooth and never say “um” or “uh” or “like.” But being in the real world, that's not true. Today, I'm bringing on Maya Chupkov, the executive director of Proud Stutter, a podcast about shifting the stuttering narrative and embracing verbal diversity. We dive deep into:...
2022-09-2636 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceMy Day One in Podcasting with Imposter SyndromeI’m back from my Summer break and after reflecting on my personal life and my story so far, I had a few thoughts come up that tie into podcasting. How do we know when to share things, how much do we share, and what is important to share when we're behind the mic? In this episode and the next few episodes for the rest of 2022, I’m diving deeper into that mindset and how to share your story behind your voice. Today, I'll share mine. Resources mentioned in this episode: Episode 40 https://www.organ...
2022-09-1229 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceBe Vulnerable Through Laughter - Summer HiatusOne of my values is to have fun. Have fun doing what you're doing. Have fun podcasting. Have fun using your voice, and giggling and laughing are part of what I do. So, today we're talking about being vulnerable through laughter and embracing the most authentic version of yourself. Laughter plays an important role, so listen in to find out why it's huge for your podcast. Connect with Mary! Leave a voicemail with your feedback at https://www.speakpipe.com/VisibleVoice Or email VisibleVoicePodcast@gmail.com Engage with Mary on Instagram @OrganizedSoundProductions https://www.instagram.com/or...
2022-07-1214 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceKnow Yourself - Personal Branding Wisdom with DP KnudtenWhat does it mean to know yourself and then to be it? This question pretty much sums up what your personal brand can mean. This week’s special guest, DP Knudten, joins me as we decipher what a personal brand can mean for you and your podcast. We'll also share the importance of podcasting for building your self-confidence and growth and how podcasting is more than just a marketing platform. So listen in about his tips for your next iteration of your personal brand. You’ll also learn: The difference between a conversation vs an in...
2022-06-2036 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceHow Your Personal Brand Creates Success for Your PodcastA brand is a feeling and so is your podcast. Brands tell a story and when you tell that story with your own voice, it creates a strong emotional connection to your listener. That's what your podcast is doing for you. Through your voice, they get to know you as a person versus reading up on what it is that you do. In this episode, learn how to convey those emotions and showcase your authority and talent by building your personal brand. Resources mentioned in the episode: Artio Design Co https://www.artiodesignco.com/ Em...
2022-06-0614 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceAccept and Elevate Your Accent with Maggie PerotinLike computer software, your brain is programmed to keep you safe, but sometimes it's doing its job all too well. One area of that is judgement. When we receive judgement, especially when we use our voice, we have this fear of judgement from ourselves and especially from others. What will they think of me? Will I be perceived as smart and knowledgeable versus weak and not knowing what I'm talking about? Maggie Perotin is a business and leadership coach who recently launched her podcast and touches on this very thing. She reveals how she's reconnected with her v...
2022-05-2331 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceEmbracing Your AccentThere is nothing wrong with having an accent because everyone has an accent based on where you were born, where you grew up, and where you live. It's associated with where you're from. So why are we trying to erase who we are or assimilate into the same accent? Be you on your podcast and empower yourself to know that you can alter certain sounds or syllables based on your muscles, your tongue, your lips, and how you say something because we're not going to erase who you are. Come along this ride with me so...
2022-05-0913 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceHow to Be a Podcast GuestPodcasting can get overwhelming and feel like another full-time job, but in order for you to leverage the podcasting platform, you don't have to have your own show. Instead, be a guest. It's a great way to figure out if having your own show is really for you. So, here’s how you can leverage the podcasting space without hosting your own. Resources Mentioned In This Episode: Episode 38 - How Human Connection Is Nurtured Through Your Voice and Podcasting with Megan Hamilton https://www.organizedsound.ca/how-human-connection-is-nurtured-through-your-voice-and-podcasting-with-megan-hamilton-episode-38/ Dorinda Wong’s, Let’s Have This Conversation https://lets-ha...
2022-04-1125 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceHow Human Connection Is Nurtured Through Your Voice and Podcasting with Megan HamiltonThe work of showing up and having a voice can sometimes be draining or overwhelming. There’s the anxiety of wondering if we are going to say the right thing or that we don't want to step on other people's toes. Joining me today is Megan Hamilton. She’s a speaking, visibility, and confidence coach for women and non-binary people. Megan brings up a lot of useful tips for you to use before you’re ready to speak up. We also discuss: How to overcome the fear of judgement when doing a presentation or being...
2022-03-2837 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceHow to Start Each Episode of a PodcastWhy are there so many different ways to start a podcast? What's the point of each one? And which one should you use on your podcast? Well, no "one answer" is going to be the right answer for you. So let's dive into some typical ways how you can start each and every one of your episodes on your podcast. Connect with Mary! Leave a voicemail with your feedback at https://www.speakpipe.com/VisibleVoice Or email VisibleVoicePodcast@gmail.com Engage with Mary on Instagram @OrganizedSoundProductions https://www.instagram.com/organizedsoundproductions/ Find more secrets and...
2022-03-1411 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceWhy Looking Good On Camera Is Important For Your Podcast with Suzanne GloverA common theme I hear among Podcasters is that we chose podcasting as our medium because we don't have to deal with visuals or video. You can podcast in your pajamas, if you like. We love the virtual space and you don't even have to bother with your hair if you don't want to. That's actually one of my favourite things about it. But more and more, we hear that video is needed as well for anything to be successful. Today’s guest, Suzanne Glover, joins me to explain why we need to embrace video and how we can le...
2021-11-1529 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceBreaking Through Societal Pressure About Your VoiceWhen you feel small or made to feel small, so does your voice. Your voice will shift and sound smaller or quieter. In this episode, I'm sharing my live session from the Extraordinary Asian Women event hosted by Claudia Chan. This was recorded back on January 30th, 2021, yet is still so relevant today. I was so happy that Claudia said I could share my session with you on this podcast because even though I touch on growing up in a Chinese immigrant household which has its own societal pressures of what a girl or woman is supposed...
2021-03-0926 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceHonour Yourself Because September is the New JanuaryWe all know January is a time to review, renew, and shift ideas. Setting new goals and planning out what the next 12 months would look like. Or maybe you're one of those people who loves to create new year resolutions. But resolutions are for January, right? Or can we do them now? September has all those same qualities! I would dare say even more so than the arbitrary calendar date of January 1st. This is the time of year for a return to our routines, even though this September, as 2020 is no ordinary September, we can still get some routine...
2020-09-2110 min
The Tao of Self-Confidence802: The Voice Of Confidence With Mary ChanMary Chan is a Podcast Strategist, Voice Coach, and Voice-Over Artist who believes in empowering women to find their voice. Born and raised in Vancouver, BC, Canada to immigrant parents, Mary was told to stay quiet, even when she was laughing, and not ruffle any feathers. Today, Mary gives women self-confidence with their voice because she felt that she didn't have one growing up. After working in radio for 20 years, she struck out on her own and founded Organized Sound Productions, a podcast production and consulting company.
Mary shares what it means to have the voice of confidence and why i...
2020-09-1508 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceStarting A Perfectly Imperfect PodcastPodcasting is about the journey and the practice of doing through imperfection. One of the reasons why podcasters don't start their own show is because they don't think it's good enough. But, the mistakes we make as podcasters means a lesson we'll learn for our next episode. We all publish imperfect episodes because no one is perfect. If we wanted to publish perfect episodes, there wouldn't be very many podcasts to listen to at all. I'd even dare to say none. Speak your truth and do it confidently by not needing to be perfect. Learn more about creating a...
2020-09-1409 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceHow Wearing Masks Affects Your Vocal HealthIn these challenging times, unprecedented event, whatever you want to call it, it's not very common to go out and meet people anymore during the pandemic. So when we do, there are rules to abide by, protocols we should follow, and generally, for my own peace of mind and safety, we are all wearing masks. However, when you wear a mask, that changes your voice. It shifts how you speak. In today's episode, I'll show you what it sounds like to wear a mask, how it changes your voice, and what we need to do as Podcasters for our...
2020-09-0711 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible Voice3 Secrets About Podcasting That No One Tells You at the StartStarting a podcast is relatively easy, compared to other forms of traditional media. People compare podcasting to radio or TV, but imagine if you tried to get your own radio show or TV show?!?! How do you even start? Podcasting has a much lower barrier to entry and the industry is still so young that we're not even close to hitting that proverbial bubble. It's not going to pop anytime soon. However, there are a few things that no one talks about when you decide to dive deep into creating your own podcast. In today's episode, I'll share three secrets ab...
2020-08-3111 min
The Podcaster's Guide to a Visible VoiceTrailerHow do you make an emotional connection with your audience? It's done through the power of your natural voice. This is "the Podcaster's Guide to a Visible Voice", a podcast for podcasters who want to reach their full potential. Be more confident to share your authentic voice through bite-sized episodes on voice coaching and podcasting tips. You'll discover what it takes to be a powerful podcaster with your host, Mary Chan, as she shares techniques, mindset shifts, and go beyond the typical how-to talk into a microphone, although she loves to talk about that too. She'll guide you on...
2020-07-0601 min
The Homestay Kitchen: Cultural Connections with International Students who Study AbroadWhat Effects the Coronavirus COVID-19 Has On HomestayHelllllloooooo! Long time no chat! We were scheduled to come back in early March and then the pandemic struck. Now we are all physically distancing and staying at home, so the Homestay Kitchen had to re-work our podcasting schedule to fit our new routine. In the meantime, we thought we'd check in with you. How are you doing? Erin is now the multi-tasker extraordinaire working from home while maneuvering all five of her kids which includes two students. Mary is also navigating working from home while everyone else is also home, so finding a new routine has been challenging...
2020-04-0800 min
The Homestay Kitchen: Cultural Connections with International Students who Study AbroadEnd of the Student Homestay ExperienceIt's coming to the end of the year and some students may be leaving or some students may be heading home just for the winter break. Either way, when it's time to drag the luggage out and dust off that passport, we need to start thinking about our pre-departure rituals. What is it like when your student finally leaves? What strategies are you going to put into place when it comes to saying goodbye? In this episode, we tackle the end of the student homestay experience. And since we are talking about goodbyes, the podcast is going...
2019-12-0900 minThe Homestay Kitchen: Cultural Connections with International Students who Study AbroadBoundaries and Rules During Homestay ExperiencesBoundaries. We've all got them or we should all have some in place. There are limits and rules to all sorts of things during a homestay experience. Boundaries around the house, food, laundry, safety issues, and even personal boundaries. What are they and how can we enforce them? In this episode, we share our own set of boundaries and how we communicate these rules to our students. What are your boundaries around the house? What challenges do you face when applying these rules? Let us know by emailing us at homestaykitchen@gmail.com. We'd love to share...
2019-12-0200 minThe Homestay Kitchen: Cultural Connections with International Students who Study AbroadDealing with HomesicknessAt one point or another, whether you as the host knows it or not, your student will get homesick. Sometimes it'll show through their emotions or difference in actions. Or sometimes, it only happens when they are hidden away in their rooms, when the lights are out trying to fall asleep. When do you intervene and what do you do to alleviate homesickness? In this episode, we go through some of the stories we've had dealing with homesickness. Situations where students feel a longing or connection to someone they are missing back home. In small doses, this...
2019-11-2500 minThe Homestay Kitchen: Cultural Connections with International Students who Study AbroadLong Term Students vs. Short Term StudentsSo what defines a short term student and a long term student? Mary defined a short term student as being anywhere less than 6 months, but after she said that (and even after we finished recording this episode), we were still debating what differentiated a long term student from a short term student. Any way you look at it, hosting short term students and long term students can be very different experiences. In this episode, Mary and Erin go toe to toe on the pros and cons of hosting long term students versus short term students. Have you...
2019-11-1800 minThe Homestay Kitchen: Cultural Connections with International Students who Study AbroadExperiences of Being a New Homestay Host from Jennifer LongworthIn today's episode, Erin had work to do, so Mary got to chat with Jennifer Longworth from Lexington, Kentucky. A new host parent who's only hosted a total of 3 times for very short periods and all from Japan. We talk through what it's like to be a very new host and what were some of the most surprising aspects of hosting. And it wouldn't be right to talk to our fellow neighbours to the south without pointing out a couple of differences from our countries, like hockey for us and southern food for her. Our family has...
2019-11-1200 minThe Homestay Kitchen: Cultural Connections with International Students who Study AbroadFood & Meals for Your StudentsHow do you meal prep for your students? What do you incorporate into your meal plans for them? Food is a big factor when it comes to homestay experiences. Not only the culture of different foods to eat and explore, but also how we eat and when. In today's episode, we talk about navigating all the meals of the day including snacks and dessert. We also touch on preventing food waste and figuring out what your students like or don't like to eat. Hopefully, this episode won't make you hungry, but if it does, you can make...
2019-11-0400 minThe Homestay Kitchen: Cultural Connections with International Students who Study AbroadFearless Communication Skills and Owning Your Moxie with Heather ThompsonOne of the major challenges of hosting international students is to navigate the language barrier. Communication is key to any relationship, so how do you have the confidence to speak your mind when your student doesn't speak your language? At times you need to be fearless and in today's episode we chat with Heather Thompson who shares this grit with a side of humour. Heather and her family of four has hosted 13 students over 5 years. She discusses her experience as an international student when she was young, being a host to students, and even being hosted by...
2019-10-2800 minThe Homestay Kitchen: Cultural Connections with International Students who Study AbroadErin & Mary's Favourite ThingsWhat are some of your favourite things? Things to indulge in, to keep you calm, or things that you love and won't give up. What can't you live without? In this episode, we go through some of our favourite things. Whether they are student-related or personally loved by us, we share what keeps our hearts-a-flutter. Full disclosure, there's a lot of food-related items. So get to know us and then let us know if you love the same things. Or if you have something that we need to know about. Maybe one of our future favourite things...
2019-10-0700 minThe Homestay Kitchen: Cultural Connections with International Students who Study AbroadBack to School and Navigating AirportsSo with summer here in the Northern Hemisphere fading away, it signals the time for back to school. Which means previous students have left and new students are arriving. What does that mean for your family? Students arrive all throughout the year, but summer and September are the high seasons for student arrivals. In this episode, we talk through what has happened in our homestay lives since our last episode, what is to come for the new school year, and how nerve-wracking it can be for students who navigate airports all on their own. What has your...
2019-09-1600 minThe Homestay Kitchen: Cultural Connections with International Students who Study AbroadImpact and Benefits for Your KidsHomestay families can be any structure you can think of. Older couples with room in their home, singles, parents with or without kids; as long as you have a spare room and are welcoming to people into your home, you can host! However, if you have kids, hosting students can really be a way to include teachable moments for your own children. There's a whole world that opens up for your kids. Whether it's the global community or the little world within a child's mind, people grow more fully with an expanded mindset when the world is at your...
2019-07-1500 minThe Homestay Kitchen: Cultural Connections with International Students who Study AbroadWe Are Canadian Through Multiculturalism, Diversity, and Being Very ApologeticThere is a very famous "I am Canadian" rant that went along with a beer commercial back in the late '90's. In the same vein, in this episode we talk about how we love all things Canadian. It's Canada Day and we are proud Canadians who will share with you some of our favourite or well-known Canadian musicians, inventions, and of course, we wouldn't be the Homestay Kitchen without talking about food. We also shed light on why we are so apologetic, friendly, and full of multiculturalism. So sit back and enjoy this, our reason of why we...
2019-07-0100 minThe Homestay Kitchen: Cultural Connections with International Students who Study AbroadEncouraging Students to Make FriendsWith new students coming into your home, it's always tough for them to adjust to a new culture. One way we believe that will help support your students in having better success at achieving a great experience, is to make friends. Getting students to make friends is hard, especially when they are here for a short term or with a group from their own school. Coming into a new culture, having the time to settle in, and then on top of that, having to make friends can be daunting, but don't you worry. We've got tips to...
2019-06-1700 minThe Homestay Kitchen: Cultural Connections with International Students who Study AbroadTop 5 Things To Not Do as a Homestay ParentThis episode about what not to do as a homestay parent has a lot of laughter. Not because the subject matter isn't serious, but because humour boots creativity and problem-solving. Laughter encourages risk-taking and develops thinking skills that we use to analyze situations to create more positive outcomes for you as a host and your student's experience. These tips are for all host families and cultures to help integrate your student into their new surroundings. So listen in on what you should not be doing as a homestay parent and flip that around, so that you understand what you...
2019-06-0300 minThe Homestay Kitchen: Cultural Connections with International Students who Study AbroadFinancial Reality of Hosting Homestay StudentsOkay let's get real. One of the top or main reasons families participate in a homestay program is so that they can make some money or at least they think they can. Heck, it's why we both started looking into the opportunity for our own families. However, over time it becomes more than that. We've made real connections with people all around the world. But yes, in an exchange, there is a remuneration. But what does it actually cost to host a student? Have a listen to where our money goes into hosting international students and why we think...
2019-05-2000 minThe Homestay Kitchen: Cultural Connections with International Students who Study AbroadParenting and Being a Mom to International Students for Mother's DayMother's Day, in North America where we are and in a large portion of the world, is May 12th. To mark this occasion, we give examples of how we mother our international students... or not. It really depends on the situation, the student's needs, and your own parenting views. Whether you actually have your own kids or not, you are still a homestay parent and this comes with some responsibility. In this episode, we share our stories of Erin's way vs. Mary's way, of being a homestay Mom and the unexpected journeys it can take us on.
2019-05-0600 minThe Homestay Kitchen: Cultural Connections with International Students who Study AbroadAwkwardness and Complexities on English Language and CommunicationHow do you say something in North American English versus British English? Throw in an accent and you can very well have an extremely funny scenario. In this episode, we get into the difficulties of learning English and how you need to see the humour in embarrassing situations. When your student enunciates a word differently, this could result in miscommunication. We provide plenty of examples of how saying a word slightly different can lead to some very awkward situations. But we do it all in stride with plenty of self-deprecating humour. What are some of...
2019-04-2900 minThe Homestay Kitchen: Cultural Connections with International Students who Study AbroadTop 5 Reasons to Host an International StudentIn this episode, we share our top 5 reasons for hosting an international student. There are so many points, but these 5 things are the core of what we do and love. They encompass our own personal values and how those desires play a significant role in our everyday lives. Living and sharing our day to day with our students has definitely changed our outlook on a few things. What are your top 5 reasons? Or have you got a reason similar to ours? We'd love to hear about it! Email us at homestaykitchen@gmail.com or email us a voice message...
2019-04-2200 minThe Homestay Kitchen: Cultural Connections with International Students who Study AbroadRest for ProductivityAnd we're back! Thanks for listening to the show and being so patient waiting for new episodes. In this episode, we go through what happened and why we (mostly Mary) needed this unexpected break. In these moments, Mary realized how important rest is and wanted to share how this impacted the arrival of her sister's student. Mary gives tips on watching out for signs of burnout and what you can do for yourself to get some self care and rest. Key Points From This Episode: Rainbow Brite! _#sharethecartoons #itscalledasprite_ * Erin always appreciates Mary’s handknits. _#matchtheglasses_ * We...
2019-04-0800 minThe Homestay Kitchen: Cultural Connections with International Students who Study AbroadChinese Food Culture and Cooking with Students for Chinese New YearIn this episode, we are celebrating Chinese New Year. This year for 2019, CNY lands on February 5th and it's the Year of the Pig. In Mary's family, her big thing is her family's New Year's Eve dinner and since Erin has a Chinese student, we celebrated a pre-New Year's dinner at her house. We brought our recording equipment, but there was a recording malfunction, so there were only a couple of clips we could use. So we lost some thoughts from the two students we cooked with. However, we did have a rice intervention with Erin as we go...
2019-02-0400 minThe Homestay Kitchen: Cultural Connections with International Students who Study AbroadEmotional Bonds and Departure Rituals For When Students Are LeavingIn this episode, Erin gets ready to say goodbye to one of her long-term students. To Mary's surprise, Erin didn't cry during the episode, but trust that this is an emotional experience for Erin who bonded so deeply with her homestay daughter. Before we get to that experience and what Erin has planned for her goodbye, we take a look at Mary's more practical and level headed approach. She's not a hugger, but she may be turning to the dark side. We've got a bonus for you in this episode too! If you need a rundown of what to...
2019-01-2800 minThe Homestay Kitchen: Cultural Connections with International Students who Study AbroadResolutions, Goal Setting, and Fears for Hosting Your First International StudentIn this episode, we are refreshed from our break and ready to tackle the fear of having a student in your home for the very first time. If one of your goals for the year is to become a homestay host, we help you dive into the unknown. What is it really like to have a stranger in your house? How do you get around that fear? Should you really be hosting a student then? We share our thoughts to help you navigate that fear. Whether you are a family with or without kids or you only have a...
2019-01-1400 minThe Homestay Kitchen: Cultural Connections with International Students who Study AbroadReflection on Relationships, New Beginnings, Health and Soul-Satisfying DecisionsIt's the end of 2018... and like everyone else, Erin and Mary reflect on new beginnings, growth, health, and some soul-satisfying decisions that were made in the past year. We also awaken our appreciation for our relationships... to our family, each other, and of course, our students. We get tuned-in on how these partnerships are ever-expanding our lives for the better. So thank you. Thank you for listening, subscribing to the show, and hopefully laughing along with us. We've got some ideas for next year already, but remember, if you have any show ideas, questions or stories to share, email...
2018-12-3100 minThe Homestay Kitchen: Cultural Connections with International Students who Study AbroadSharing Holiday and Christmas Traditions with Students Who Study AbroadIn this episode, we reveal our Christmas past, present and future with our international students. Mary shares her non-Christmas household, but reveals the little things she likes to do for the holidays. While Erin knows something will come together at the last minute for her family's Christmas dinner. Listen for tips on what to do with students while keeping to a budget and a list of all our favourite holiday movies. Plus, how do the holidays differ in their student's home countries? We find out about a Japanese tradition that is finger lickin' good! Whatever holiday you celebrate this...
2018-12-2400 minThe Homestay Kitchen: Cultural Connections with International Students who Study AbroadBoard Games, Video Games and All the Things to Interact with Your StudentIn this episode, we get into some of our favourite games to play with our students. It's getting to that time of the year here in Canada where the nights are cold and long. Time to bundle up and play board games, video games, and #allthethings to keep one occupied when the family is over for the holidays. Or perhaps you're getting a new student soon... what are your favourite games to play to help break the ice? Here are some ideas for easy games to play with young kids, games that require very little English, and even one...
2018-12-1000 minThe Homestay Kitchen: Cultural Connections with International Students who Study AbroadBuilding Your Network of People in the World with Veteran Host Parent Mel KilpatrickIn this episode, we chat with our dear friend Mel Kilpatrick. Mel was one of Mary's first inspirations to become a homestay parent. We scratch the surface on some of the amazing stories with her past students and explore how these experiences enhance our network of people in the world... not just for us as hosts, but for the students as well. These experiences are what makes your household grow and learn from each other to extend our connection to the world. Key Points From This Episode: Mel inspired Mary to host...
2018-12-0300 minThe Homestay Kitchen: Cultural Connections with International Students who Study AbroadAdvocating For and Supporting International StudentsIn this episode, Mary challenged Erin to talk about her being a Mama Bear; tender claws out and ready to advocate for her students. Listen for the way Erin handles challenging situations including when she rescues Christmas for her student's friend and dealing with high school teachers, which can be challenging all on their own. Then we take a little side track as Mary gets a delivery at the door... all before Mary shares her stories about how she saved a student's romantic relationship, which causes Erin to feel like throwing up because of the suspense. How have you...
2018-11-2600 minThe Homestay Kitchen: Cultural Connections with International Students who Study AbroadSelecting International Students for Your Homestay FamilyIn this episode, we share our experiences of how we select international students to become a part of our homestay family. We chat about how one student in Mary's short-term homestay experience got her to change her number one request on a student profile. We walk through what you should consider when matching a student profile to your family, and ultimately, how we decide to host a student in our home. Then we explore Erin's detailed student profile applications, while she goes on one of her tangents to provide some very insightful tips for what to do with your...
2018-11-1900 minThe Homestay Kitchen: Cultural Connections with International Students who Study AbroadWeaving Birthday Traditions with Cross Cultural ExperiencesIn this episode, we dive into birthdays! Jon and Blake's birthdays are one day apart, so we talk birthday plans and what Erin's students have up their sleeves for Blake... while Mary reveals her one big mistake in communication about birthdays with her first ever student. Key Points From This Episode: We’re recording in Mary’s empty student room. (Her living room is too noisy because there’s lots of construction sounds next door… like hammering and sawing!) Note the beautifully handcrafted desk, made by Jon. Feel free to overlook the unmade bed. Also, what you can’...
2018-11-0500 minThe Homestay Kitchen: Cultural Connections with International Students who Study AbroadTraditions of Halloween Past and How We Get International Students Involved TodayIn this episode, we're talking Halloween! We explore what each of our families does for Halloween and how you can incorporate your homestay student into the festivities. We reminisce about our past Halloween experiences to reveal how sometimes these student situations make us feel old. Key Points From This Episode: Mary is prepared for Halloween - her daughter is dressing up as a buzzy bee. Erin is a reluctant Halloween mother and is need of a Halloween miracle! She’s hoping Pinterest can save her. Her daughters have Halloween costumes, but her son and students do no...
2018-10-2900 minThe Homestay Kitchen: Cultural Connections with International Students who Study AbroadThe One About MaryIn this episode, Erin interviews Mary. We talk about how Mary got started hosting international homestay students. Mary shares some of her experiences with hosting, her love of cooking, crafting, and how she includes her students in her home life. Key Points From This Episode: Chai is patience in a cup Previous homestay parents scared Mary with their stories. Mary hosts short-term students. Average age is 21. Mary really enjoys cooking “Mix mash” is our new made up word for the ultimate recipe cookbook She’s a crafter! Mary is excellent at charades Google translate is an excell...
2018-10-2200 minThe Homestay Kitchen: Cultural Connections with International Students who Study AbroadThe One About ErinIn this episode, Mary interviews Erin. We talk about how we first met, reminiscing about Erin's high school experience of being a homestay sister, and we dissect a day in her family's crazy life to reveal how her students are the best part of her day. Key Points From This Episode: Mary has a bubble. Always ask permission before touching her. Also, poking the bubble (or attempting to poke the bubble) makes her nervous. Things Erin has learned from many years of friendship! And yes, Mary's nostrils really did flare. We met when we worked in...
2018-10-2200 minThe Homestay Kitchen: Cultural Connections with International Students who Study AbroadTrailerComing soon is The Homestay Kitchen. Join us, Mary Chan and Erin Eastman Paulson, as we serve up stories of being a homestay family - the ups and downs of making a connection with international homestay students. We’ll bring a plateful of stories, ideas, interviews, and hopefully, dish up some anecdotes to share with our community. Have you ever wanted to be a homestay host? Are you one already? Or perhaps you’re an international student that wants to share your story… If you have any questions, ideas for future episodes, or want to be on our sh...
2018-09-2400 min