So it sounded like a crazy idea…but it just wouldn’t go away!

Starting a podcast seemed like the least-wise thing I could possibly do – especially in the midst of a book deadline.

But after a lot of prayer and running it by my literary agent, rather than being warned against it, God seemed to give His overwhelming approval.

So here we are…Just two weeks from the podcast launch of “The Living Room with Joanna Weaver!”

I can’t wait to share the amazing guest interviews I’ve been recording as well as the solo shows where I share things God’s been teaching me. It’s been a lot of work, but a lot of joy because I know that God’s behind it all.

So you may be wondering…why a podcast, Joanna?

Five Reasons I’m Starting a Podcast

1. I love podcasts

Because podcasts are as close as my smart phone, I can listen to them anytime and anywhere – 24 hours a day! (Learn how to access podcasts in the video below.)

Every other week or so, I drive to north  to Missoula (where Super Walmart, Costco and my parents live!) which gives me a 45-minute drive to listen to sermons, inspiring interviews as well as leadership and business advice. But I also enjoy listening to podcasts while cleaning house or folding laundry. Podcasts are a wealth of wisdom – right at my fingertips!

2. I love talking to ministry-minded women

As an author and speaker, I’ve been blessed to meet some incredible ministry women over the years. Hosting a podcast gives me a chance to share some of the rich conversations I’ve enjoyed – plus it gives me a chance to make new friends as well!

In my new podcast, we’ll be talking about their books as well as lessons learned in life and ministry. I know you’ll be inspired by these amazing women.

3. I love asking questions

When meeting someone new, I love hearing their story. Where they’ve been, what they do, and what God’s teaching them. Podcasts give an outlet for my innate curiosity!

While I’m new to this interview game, I’m looking forward to learning how to ask better questions – on the show as well as in life. For good questions help us go beyond surface relationships to a deep place where we connect, not only as Christians, but heart-to-heart sisters.

4. I love sharing what God’s taught me

One of the things I’m most excited about is the the chance to share my heart in solo shows. I’m not an expert, I’m a fellow struggler – but God has taught me so many things over the years. I’m looking forward to chatting about topics that touch each one of us – like cultivating friendship with God, hammering out forgiveness and much more.

When listening to the solo shows, I hope you feel like we’re sitting across the table, sipping on lattes – or iced tea (depending on what season’s going on in your neck of the woods!) 🙂

5. I love talking (more than writing!)

To be honest, this was a big part of my decision to start a podcast. Talking comes much easier to me than writing. Because I’m currently under deadline, I need to put all my writing energy into my new book, not this blog!

For those of you who prefer written over audio, never fear! You’ll still be able to glean tips from the shownotes that post with each episode. They include important takeaways from the episode as well as links to websites and other resources mentioned in the show.

How to Listen to Podcasts

So there you have it! My top five reasons for starting a podcast.

If you’ve never listened to podcasts and want to know how, here’s a great little video that gives step-by-step instructions for accessing shows on your phone, tablet or computer.

In the next blog, I’m going to share tips to help you get the most out of podcasts.

Why all this podcast stuff, you may wonder? Well, it’s all leading up to the launch of my new podcast, “The Living Room with Joanna Weaver” which happens on April 3, 2019!

I’ve got lots of interviews and solo shows already recorded – all of them designed to help you live, love and lead like Jesus!

I hope you’ll tune in when it airs – and if you enjoy it, share it with a friend.

Meanwhile, for those of you who already enjoy podcasts, I’d love your recommendations for a couple of blog posts I’m working on. In the comments below, please share your favorite podcasts in these two areas:

• Favorite Podcasts for Christian Women
• Favorite Podcasts for Christian Leaders

I’d love to hear from you…What are your favorite podcasts?