Authentic Podcasting Lessons from Mark Grimes That Every Beginner Should Hear
Manage episode 509071589 series 3583303
What happens when a working-class dad turns life’s challenges into a platform for change? For Mark Grimes, it meant turning his passion for volunteer mental health into Chewing the Crust, a storytelling podcast that’s equal parts grit, growth, and pie.
In this episode, Mark shares how one moment backstage at a Chris Evans radio festival sparked the idea to start a podcast focused on mental health stories, resilience stories, and the everyday experiences that shape us. With no background in broadcasting, he launched a YouTube podcast from his cluttered home office, proving that imperfect action beats perfection paralysis every time.
We explore how Mark uses his natural curiosity and background as a UK podcaster to draw out powerful, human moments through long-form interviews. From dealing with production hiccups to using Riverside editing as a learning tool, Mark’s journey is packed with wisdom for new and seasoned podcasters alike.
We also dig into:
- Why the best interview tips start with letting people finish
- How to build human connection without over-editing your guests
- Why success isn’t measured in downloads
- How podcasting turned his book into a movement
Whether you're looking for real-world advice on how to start a podcast, improve your interview skills, or connect your content to a deeper mission, this episode delivers the honesty and insight you’ve been craving.
If you're looking to talk podcasting and get more information on how to make your podcast shine, our 30-minute "no pitch" podcast consultation is right for you! Click the link to sign up for a time.
https://pedalstomperproductions.as.me/no-pitch
Staying up to date on the latest podcasting news and trends doesn't have to be difficult. We can deliver them right to your inbox.
https://www.pedalstomperproductions.com/
Want to start your own podcast? https://www.pedalstomperproductions.com/contact-bedford
Book your time in our state of the art studios: https://www.pedalstomperproductions.com/podcast
Join our Discord Server and let's chat about your podcast https://discord.gg/CWk9aUuNtM
Want to read about this? Check the blog!
https://www.pedalstomperproductions.com/blog
Chapters
1. Meet Mark Grimes: UK Podcaster & Mental Health Advocate (00:00:00)
2. Why His Mental Health Book Became a Storytelling Podcast (00:01:41)
3. The Power of “Life Pivots” and How They Shape Podcast Themes (00:04:34)
4. A Conversation with Chris Evans That Changed Everything (00:06:39)
5. Lesson 1: Start Before You’re Ready, Imperfect Action Beats No Action (00:08:48)
6. Lesson 2: Your Message Matters More Than Your Microphone (00:12:17)
7. Lesson 3: Let People Finish, You’ll Get Better Stories (00:15:35)
8. Lesson 4: Don’t Over-Edit, Authenticity Builds Trust (00:19:05)
9. Real Conversations with Guests Facing Life-Altering Events (00:24:18)
10. How Human Connection Makes Your Podcast More Powerful (00:26:51)
59 episodes