Episode 524 - I Do What I Want in My Podcast, Authorship and Podcasting With CO-HOST - Hollis Jo McCollum
Improv, presence, and the art of showing up
This episode centers on the joy of unfiltered conversation and the power of being present in the moment. Hollis Jo McCollum, host of I Do What I Want!, and her co-host Dave riff on the spontaneity and humor that come from live, unscripted dialogue. The conversation touches how improv mindset—saying yes and learning to adapt—fuels engaging interviews, teaches the value of authentic interaction, and keeps podcasts lively even when plans loosen their grip.
From hobby to vocation: creativity on display
Hollis reflects on her path as an author who embraced podcasting as a platform for connection and discovery. She recalls launching her show with a simple premise: to let conversations unfold rather than over-structuring them. The discussion sheds light on the practicalities of producing a podcast in real time—how she handles live recording, editing aversions, and the flexibility required to stay true to the “I Do What I Want” spirit. The value of sharing personal stories—especially about writing, reading, and the creative process—emerges as a key driver for building an audience.
Balancing craft and audience
The episode explores the balance between being a guest and a host, the dynamics of collaboration, and how to maintain a rhythm that honors listeners and guests alike. Hollis and Dave consider scheduling, consistency, and the realities of adult life that shape publishing cadence. The importance of audience feedback is highlighted as a catalyst for evolution—recognizing what resonates, and adapting formats while preserving personality and humor.
Cultural context and human connection
A recurring thread is how technology shapes everyday life and communication. The co-hosts share anecdotes about Gen Z interactions, the role of smartphones in shaping behavior, and how public spaces become stages for candid social moments. The conversation muses on the value of human-to-human conversations in a tech-saturated world and argues for deliberate presence as a practice—whether in cafes, classrooms, or on a podcast episode.
Key takeaway for listeners
Authenticity in conversation—embracing spontaneity, being present, and balancing structure with improvisation—creates compelling storytelling and meaningful connection with both guests and audiences. This episode champions showing up as you are, with curiosity, humor, and a willingness to go wherever the dialogue leads.
Notes on style and connective threads
The show’s vibe is conversational, improvisational, and warmly informal, reflecting Hollis’s personality and the “I Do What I Want!” ethos.
Personal anecdotes about writing, voice work, and the creative process illuminate a behind-the-scenes look at podcasting for authors.
The hosts’ emphasis on listening, presence, and playful exploration provides a blueprint for listeners who want to cultivate their own creative projects and maintain authentic communication.
Endnote
Listeners are encouraged to engage with Hollis’s work across platforms (YouTube, Spotify, and other hosts) and to consider how a flexible, people-first approach to conversations can enrich both creative endeavors and everyday interactions.
https://pod.link/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuc3ByZWFrZXIuY29tL3Nob3cvNTUyNDExOS9lcGlzb2Rlcy9mZWVkhttps://www.hollisjomccollumauthor.com/
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