The Power of Podcasting & Reinvention

Ever thought about starting a podcast but got stuck in the planning phase? Or maybe you’ve been wondering how to use LinkedIn to make meaningful connections that actually go somewhere?

Well, let me introduce you to Jazmine Booker, podcaster, video producer, and all-around trailblazer in the automotive industry. Her journey in podcasting didn’t just start strong...it started with hesitation, self-doubt, and a whole year of overthinking. (Sound familiar? ??)

Now, four years later, Auto Talk with Jazz has become a must-listen, helping women in automotive feel seen and heard while sparking important conversations about leadership, shop culture, and industry evolution.

The Evolution of a Podcast: When a Name No Longer Fits

One of the biggest takeaways from our conversation was the challenge of naming a podcast and knowing when to pivot. Jazmine originally launched her show under the name Downshift Offense, a title that carried meaning for her but wasn’t easily remembered by listeners.

She realized that people loved the content, but they struggled to recall the name. That’s a major issue when building a brand. If your audience can’t find you, they won’t engage. So she made the difficult decision to rebrand to Auto Talk with Jazz, a name that felt more aligned with her personality and her mission.

This hit home for me because I went through the exact same process. When I started The Parts Girl Podcast, it fit where I was at the time. But as the conversations expanded beyond just parts, I knew I needed a title that better reflected the depth of discussions we were having. That’s how Trailblaze Your Path Podcast was born. It was a terrifying decision because everyone recognized Parts Girl and when you build something, changing it can feel like starting over. But the truth is, rebranding is not a failure. It’s an evolution.

Podcasting as the Ultimate Business Tool

Podcasting is no longer just an entertainment medium, it’s one of the most powerful tools for networking, brand building, and business growth.

Jazmine and I talked about how podcasting today serves the same function business cards once did. It allows you to introduce yourself and your expertise in a way that feels natural and engaging. Instead of a cold email or sales pitch, people hear your voice, your perspective, and your passion. By the time they reach out, they already feel like they know you.

For sales professionals, business owners, and thought leaders, this is a game-changer. It shifts the dynamic from chasing opportunities to attracting the right people organically.

The Role of AI in Podcasting & Content Creation

When Jazmine started, editing a single episode could take five or more hours. Anyone who has worked in production knows that post-processing can be one of the most time-consuming parts of content creation. But with the rise of AI tools, podcasters can now automate transcriptions, generate show notes, and streamline editing, cutting production time dramatically.

This means that starting a podcast today is easier than ever. Many people hold back because they assume they need a studio, a full team, or expensive equipment. But the truth is, the barriers are lower than they’ve ever been. With the right tools, even a solo podcaster can maintain a high-quality production schedule without burning out.

Are You Podcasting for the Right Reasons?

One of the most insightful parts of our conversation was the discussion around why people start podcasts in the first place. Not every podcast needs to be monetized. Not every show needs sponsorships or ads.

Some people use podcasting to generate leads for their business. Others see it as a way to grow their professional network. Some simply love sharing stories and ideas. No matter the motivation, podcasting requires consistency, passion, and patience.

Jazmine shared that while her podcast has led to business opportunities, the true value has been in the relationships and conversations she’s had along the way. This resonated deeply because, for me, podcasting has always been about connection first. If you approach it with the mindset of building relationships rather than chasing revenue, the right opportunities will come naturally.

Advice for Aspiring Podcasters: Just Start

If you have an idea for a podcast but are stuck in the planning phase, the best advice is simple: just start.

Jazmine admitted that before launching, she spent too much time overthinking. She worried about the format, the branding, the technical setup. But the reality is, no one gets it perfect on day one. The only way to improve is through trial and error.

A podcast can always evolve. The name, the format, the audience—it will all shift over time. The key is to stop waiting for the perfect moment and take action.

If you’re thinking about launching your own show, or if you have one but are struggling with consistency, I’d love to hear your thoughts. What’s been your biggest challenge? What’s holding you back?

Listen to the Full Episode

This episode is filled with insight, humor, and real talk about what it means to build something meaningful.

?? Listen to the full conversation here: https://tr.ee/D6gEqLLGfC

Until next time, keep pushing forward, keep evolving, and most importantly—keep blazing your path.

Kaylee Felio Host, Trailblaze Your Path Podcast Powered by PartsEdge