249. The Pediatric Meltdown Podcast: Behind the Scenes

Are you curious about what really happens behind the microphones of a successful pediatric podcast—and the unconventional journeys that brought an incredible team together?

In this special milestone episode of Pediatric Meltdown, host Lia brings her entire production and strategy team on-air for an unfiltered, dynamic conversation. Discover the circuitous career paths that shaped a jazz singer-turned-podcast producer, a teacher turned ADHD coach and social media strategist, and a web developer with a nomadic spirit.

Uncover the highs, lows, and learning curves of building a polished show from the inside out—including struggles with self-promotion, harnessing social media, and the mounting pressures (and joys) of creative collaboration.

If you've ever wondered what it takes to sustain a podcast for (close to) 250 episodes, or you’re searching for inspiration to pivot in your own career, this story of grit and reinvention will leave you rethinking what’s possible.

[00:02 - 10:04] How the Team Came Together & Podcast Origins

• The show’s launch was serendipitous, sparked by a leap of faith rather than a long-held ambition to podcast.
• Early challenges with off-shore podcast management led to seeking more control and expertise locally.
• The pivotal connection to a new producer happened via networking with Adam Schaeuble of Podcast Business School.
• The team shares first impressions and mutual support, setting the collaborative tone for the episode.

[10:05 - 15:57 ] Creative Pivots, Building Skills, and Making Media

• Team members discuss how their entertainment, teaching, and customer service backgrounds unexpectedly prepared them for podcasting and digital media.
• D.R.’s “Mouthy Broad Media”company name was inspired by a personal family story, blending creativity with homage.
• The learning curve of audio, websites, and social strategy is highlighted as an ongoing, shared challenge.
• The importance of curiosity, open-mindedness, and adapting to unexpected opportunities is emphasized.

[15:58 - 34:30 ] The Rewards and Hurdles of Content Creation & Promotion

• Social media emerges as both an essential tool for growth and the greatest challenge for the host, who dislikes self-promotion.
• Each team member brings different comfort levels and tactics for tackling visibility and audience engagement.
• Discussion of burnout, professional transitions, and how the pandemic prompted new career directions.
• Strategies for supporting each other (and listeners) through ADHD, workflow experimentation, and honest dialogue about what works (or doesn’t).

[34:31 - 43:14 ] Leveraging Team Strengths: Services, Resources & Lessons for Listeners

• The team shares their current services: web design, social media strategy, podcast production, ADHD coaching, and consulting.
• Emphasis on collaboration (“it’s all right here”)—listeners are encouraged to reach out for services or to get started themselves.
• Honest reflections on the tricky pursuit of monetization and the value of creative fulfillment.
• Recommendations for further learning, including Colleen Cullinan’s ADHD series and Peter Jensen’s adult ADHD episode.

[43:15 - 48:49] Dr. G’s TakeAways

Resources Mentioned in the Episode:

D.R. Fay - MouthyBroadMedia.com

Margaret Faucella -