While she podcasts to help herself and others on a similar journey of sobriety, Mei’s most impactful feedback has been from someone who does not identify as sober but was pouring praise because they derived the connection and strength from The Creative Sober that they needed to tackle their own life challenges. That means that this podcast isn’t just for those who identify as sober or creative but is for anyone who may be struggling and wants to lean in and carve out a different path for themselves, which is, honestly, probably all of us in some capacity. As women, we often feel our voices are not worthy or needed in the universe. That our voices are squashed when we attempt to share our ideas and innovation. Mei does not believe in this status quo. She is paving the way for female podcasters to be true to themselves while ensuring their voices are being heard. Mei’s sage advice is using your intuition, reflect inward to determine your unique gift, and then use it for the betterment of society. We all are entitled and even obligated to use our voices because we each add value. When it comes to our podcasts, finding guests is important. But just as important as finding them is preparing for our interviews. Mei has two crucial pieces of advice that apply to each of us whether it’s on our podcast, speaking with our colleagues at work, or gathering socially. One, know who you are speaking to. By understanding their journey, passion, and purpose, you begin to feel a connection to your guest which leads directly into the second piece of advice which is compassion and empathy. Each of our guests, regardless of our podcast topic, needs to feel our empathy and compassion so that they feel comfortable sharing their expertise and story. We, the host, are providing a platform for their voice to be heard so it is incumbent upon us to make our guests feel at home—just as we would if they were visiting us at our physical house. In the case of The Creative Sober, the topic is often sensitive and emotional. Mei ensures there is a short conversation before recording along with an icebreaker to help her guests become comfortable and feel safe. And before hitting that record button, she always asks if there is something that is off limits: a topic, a story, a trigger. This formula allows her to prep for the interview and helps both Mei and her guest(s) to shake out those nerves we all have faced when we are being interviewed, often for the first time. The only discussion she will not allow on her podcast is politics. With its current polarizing climate, Mei feels it is contradictory to the podcast’s message which is to bridge, understand, and create compassion through conversation and understanding.
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