Raw stories, bold truths, and inspiration to live life on your own terms!
"...just start. It can be daunting, but the best way to learn is through experience."
Today Angela Gentile, the creator of The Empowered Millennials Podcast shares her story of Self-Improvement podcast.
► Tell us about you and your podcast
I’m Angela Gentile, the host and creator of The Empowered Millennials podcast. My background is in education, fitness, and NLP coaching, and I started this podcast to share real, raw stories from people who are living life on their own terms.
In each episode, I dive into conversations that challenge societal norms and inspire listeners to embrace their truth, no matter how unconventional it might be. The Empowered Millennials is all about finding clarity and empowerment, and it’s made for trailblazers like you who are ready to live unapologetically.
My listeners are mostly millennials looking for inspiration to level up in life, career, and personal growth, and I’m here to help them find their own "fuck yes."
► Why & how did you start this podcast?
I started The Empowered Millennials podcast because I wanted to create a space where people could hear real stories about breaking free from societal expectations and living authentically, finding inspiration from real people so they, too, can do epic stuff.
My initial goal was to give a voice to those of us who are forging our own paths, especially as a single, child-free woman. I break conventionality just by existing. And my life is amazing! I wanted listeners to feel seen and empowered to live life on their terms.
I’ve always been passionate about empowerment and storytelling, and podcasting felt like the perfect medium to combine the two. for YEARS people were telling me I needed to start one. But being the elderly millennial I am, I didn't know where to start. But working with the right team combined with my own readiness to jump, I launched the podcast in 2021, and it took a few months of planning and preparation before I released my first episode.
► How'd you find the time and funding to do this podcast?
Finding time and funding for The Empowered Millennials podcast has been a balancing act, especially since I have a full-time job doing corporate training and teaching. Plus, I still teach a few fitness classes each week. But, I release episodes bi-weekly, and producing each one takes several hours—planning, recording, editing, and promoting. The most time consuming part is finding guests. I do all the outreach and searching. I scroll through socials looking for people who are doing something cool and even reach out to people I hear on other podcasts. I just cold email, panic and hope for the best!
It’s a lot to juggle, but because I’m so passionate about the podcast, I make it a priority. I often carve out evenings and weekends to work on episodes, and it’s become a routine part of my life.
As for funding, I’ve been self-funding the podcast from the start, covering costs for hosting, editing software, and marketing. Now, I just do everything myself. One woman show! I am just starting to get sponsorships, which is awesome and it helps cover the costs. While it’s not cheap, I see it as an investment in building a platform that empowers others, which makes it worth every penny.
► What do you gain from podcasting?
Yes, I do take sponsorships, though the podcast started as a passion project funded entirely by me. My first sponsorship came after I had built a steady following and showed consistent growth in downloads. I got my first sponsor when I was averaging around 800 downloads per month. I got connected to a platform from another podcaster friend of mine.
I also have sponsorships from small businesses I connect with in my mentor and entrepreneur groups.
Now, I find sponsors by building relationships with companies that resonate with my message of empowerment, often reaching out directly or through networking. The podcast is currently seeing over thousand downloads each month, and this continued growth makes it easier to attract sponsors.
Beyond revenue, podcasting has opened up incredible opportunities for me—expanding my network, connecting with inspiring guests, and growing my platform, which also benefits my other ventures like coaching and speaking engagements. It’s been a rewarding journey that’s enriched both my personal and professional life.
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► How does your podcasting process look like?
My podcasting process is pretty streamlined now, but it took time to find the right tools and flow. I use a USB microphone, and I record using Zoom, especially since my guests aren’t local. For editing, I use iMovie—it's simple, reliable, and free. Once the episode is edited, I use Simplecast to host and distribute it to platforms like Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
When it comes to finding guests, I reach out to people whose stories align with the podcast’s mission of empowerment and authenticity. Some are from my own network, while others I discover through social media or recommendations. Preparation is key, so I always research my guests in-depth and tailor questions to dive into topics that will resonate with my listeners. I prefer to keep the interviews conversational, raw and real while being focused on the guest's journey and insights.
All of my interviews are done via Zoom, as it allows for flexibility with guests from all over the world. I love how podcasting has made it easy to connect with inspiring people no matter where they are. It's so dope!
► How do you market your show?
Marketing The Empowered Millennials podcast is a mix of strategies that have evolved over time. My listeners primarily find the show through platforms like Apple Podcasts and Spotify, but I also promote episodes on social media, especially Instagram and tiktok, plus marketing directly to my audience via email. That helps with word of mouth downloads. Currently, about 51% of my listeners come from Apple Podcasts, 30% from Spotify.
In terms of marketing channels, I find social media to be the most effective. Engaging clips from episodes, and behind-the-scenes content help create a connection with my audience. I also utilize my email newsletter to share episode updates and insights, which keeps my listeners engaged and encourages them to share the podcast with others.
Networking with other podcasters and collaborating on promotions has also been beneficial. By cross-promoting with guests I’ve been able to tap into new audiences that align with my message. Overall, it’s a combination of organic reach and strategic outreach that helps grow the podcast’s audience.
► What advice would you share with aspiring (new) podcasters?
For aspiring podcasters, my biggest advice is to just start. It can be daunting, but the best way to learn is through experience.
You do have to be consistent. Regularly releasing episodes builds trust and loyalty among listeners. It’s better to start with a schedule you can maintain rather than trying to do too much too quickly.
Engage with your audience, too. Building a community around your podcast is vital. Respond to comments, ask for feedback, and create content that resonates with your listeners.
And most importantly, network and collaborate. Reach out to other podcasters for collaborations and guest appearances. It’s a great way to grow your audience and learn from others.
Trust yourself and your vision while enjoying the process! Podcasting can be a rewarding creative outlet, so let your passion shine through.
► Where can we learn more about you & your podcasts?
You can check out all the socials and visit my website! Stop by and say hi. Leave a comment and let's connect.
https://www.instagram.com/theempoweredmillennials/
https://www.instagram.com/theangelagentile/
https://www.tiktok.com/@theangelagentile
https://www.theangelagentile.com/
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