Episode 12: Want a shortcut to creating a great podcast? Never hesitate to imitate another podcaster. Imitation is part of the creative process for anyone learning an art or craft. Whether it's painting, music, or podcasting, all find inspiration in looking up to others.

In his book, Steal Like an Artist: 10 Things Nobody Told You About Being Creative, Austin Kleon writes:

What a good artist understands is that nothing comes from nowhere. All creative work builds on what came before. Nothing is completely original.

Whether you're a newbie or seasoned showrunner, never forget that you are an artist. Find the best podcasters in your category. Listen to them. Especially make it a point to listen to shows outside of your category. Do they do interviews or have different show segments? How do they use music or sound effects? What are they doing differently from you? Get their shows and voices into your head because you can copy programming and personality.

Don’t worry that imitating them will cause you to lose your own voice and identity. Soon enough you will become who you are supposed to be.

By listening to other podcasters, you'll plug yourself into a depth of experience that enriches you. Inspiration through imitation can help you raise the level of your podcast. Tap into greatness and you may soon find that your show is improving and sparking increased engagement.

Don't just be a podcaster.

Listen. Imitate. Make it yours.

Be an artist.

Who are podcasters who have inspired you?