Spending weekends on my podcast instead of client pitches... smart move or shooting myself in the foot?

I've been putting a lot of time into my true crime podcast lately... Some friends say it's a waste of time that could be spent on paid work. But I feel like it helps me practice my editing skills and could lead to new clients. Last month, I spent hours on an episode instead of updating my portfolio. Now I'm torn between chasing immediate cash and building something I love. What do you all think? Is it wise to invest in side projects or should I focus only on paid gigs?

3 comments

3 Comments

stellawilson1mo ago

Side projects like podcasts show potential clients your real voice and drive. That authenticity can land you gigs with people who get what you're about. In the long run, that's often better than chasing every paid job.

riveradams1mo ago

Couldn't that editing practice come from paid work that actually pays you?

dylananderson1mo ago

Lol riveradams is onto something with the paid work thing. But is it really that serious to need a whole podcast for practice? If you're already getting paid to edit, that shows you can do the job. Most clients just want good work, not a story about your side hustle. Feels like people make this way more deep than it needs to be.