221. I Podcasted for 5 Years Before It Finally Clicked

What does it really take to build a body of work you can stand behind - especially when the numbers don't immediately reflect the care you're putting into it? In this episode of EDIT HISTORY, Cheryl steps into the interviewee seat and unpacks the insecurities, turning points, and decisions that shaped different stages of her career as a podcaster. This conversation is for entrepreneurs, professionals, and podcasters who've ever wondered: Am I legit enough? Should I be further along by now? What if my work doesn't look like everyone else's, but still matters? TIMETAMPS   (00:00) Trailer (00:49) Opening  (03:11) What "success" and credibility meant in the early days (06:13) External validation vs internal motivation (09:43) Advice and templates that didn't actually fit (12:29) The moment Cheryl realized where her real value was (16:09) What she's most proud of from the early iterations (18:29) Letting people into the thought process behind the work (23:49) Seeing Cheryl's thought process  (26:39) The fears and resistance behind going all-in on podcasting (31:16) What Cheryl wants to deepen and sharpen in 2026 (34:38) What Cheryl is working on deepening in 2026  (36:51) A message to little Cheryl (37:52) If every body of work has a draft - what's the current one? (39:19) Closing  CONNECT WITH CHERYL LAU   Website: https://cheryllau.com  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@cheryltheory  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cheryltheory LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cheryllau WORK WITH CHERYL LAU   I produce distinctive and deeply resonant podcasts for leaders and organizations who want their content to command attention, spark meaningful conversations, and attract high-value opportunities. I ensure your podcast isn't just another show in the feed - it's an asset that elevates your authority and moves your work forward. Here are 3 ways we can work together: ✨ 1:1 Editorial Podcast Production ✨ Corporate Podcast Producing & Consulting ✨ Hosting for Corporate Shows   Schedule a discovery call for us to explore what working together might look like: https://cheryllau.com/discovery CONTACT Please email hello@cheryllau.com for business inquiries.