A few years ago, while recording an episode of Podcast Junkies, the doorbell rang mid-interview and I asked my guest for a moment to answer it. Unbeknownst to me, I was still recording, and later, in my rush to edit, I left the entire segment in the final cut.

It wasn’t until an observant fan reached out that I realized my conversation with the UPS man—and my guest’s phone call with a friend—were all published. I quickly uploaded a re-edit, but it was an egg-on-the-face moment and a reminder that we’re not always perfect as podcasters.

Here’s what 11 years of podcasting has taught me: the moments where you’re most human are often the ones your listeners connect with most. I used to obsess over sounding “professional,” re-recording intros 5–6 times until they were flawless.

I’d edit out every “um” and “ah.” I’d script everything.

Now, I’m not saying you need to be studio-perfect with your edits—or as raw as I was—but there’s a fine balance. Every podcaster eventually faces a fork in the road.

Path #1: Chase perfection. Edit ruthlessly. Sound like NPR.

Path #2: Embrace authenticity. Let your quirks shine. Be human.

Here’s the surprising truth I’ve discovered after 500+ interviews: the most “professional” thing you can do is be authentically yourself. Data backs this up—shows with genuine behind-the-scenes moments and personal stories see 35% higher listener retention.

Think about that. Your “mistakes” might actually be your secret weapon.

This doesn’t mean being sloppy or unprepared. It means finding the sweet spot I call “professional authenticity.”

It looks like this:

• Prepare your content, but don’t script your personality
• Edit for clarity, not perfection
• Share the stories that make you uniquely you
• Let your passion lead, not fear of judgment

Remember: your energy matters more than your enunciation

Some of my most popular episodes happened when things went “wrong.” When I fumbled an intro, laughed uncontrollably, or shared a personal struggle I hadn’t planned to reveal.

Listeners don’t tune in for your production value. They tune in for you.

So stop chasing that “radio voice” and start embracing your real voice. That’s the edge no one else has.

Your uniqueness is your superpower. And in a world of polished podcasts, being genuinely you might be the most refreshing thing your listeners hear all day.

What’s one “imperfection” you could start embracing in your next episode?

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With gratitude,

Harry “Perfectly Imperfect” Duran

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p.s. When you’re ready to stop hiding behind perfection and start connecting with your true audience, here’s how I can help.