Work in Progress Podcast: 10 Episodes In, Here's What I've Learned About Visibility & Business Growth
10 Episodes, 100+ Plays & A Whole Lot of Gratitude: Reflecting on the First 5 Weeks of Work in Progress
At the end of June, I officially hit publish on something that had been sitting in my head, heart (and notes app) for far too long - my podcast, Work in Progress with Nicole Engelmann. What started as a nudge - you know, that voice that whispers “you should totally do this” - has now turned into 10 live episodes, over 100 plays (and counting), and more than a few moments of “what have I done?” followed by “I’m so glad I did this.”
So this is a little milestone post. A thank-you note, a behind-the-scenes peek, and a gentle invitation to tune in if you haven’t yet.
Why I Started Work in Progress
I work with incredible people every day - small business owners, creatives, wellbeing practitioners, coaches, designers, consultants, authors - you name it. And so often, in between takes, during tea breaks or at networking events, we end up having these really raw, brilliant, honest conversations. Conversations about the bits no one posts on Instagram: self-doubt, burnout, imposter syndrome, slow months, visibility wobbles, big wins, and “accidental” pivots that changed everything.
I wanted to bottle that energy - and create a space for it. A podcast that reminds business owners that they’re not behind, broken or failing - they’re just… human. And building something. Bit by bit. As a work in progress.
What You’ll Hear on the Podcast
So far, I’ve sat down with some incredible guests - most of them women who are building purpose-driven businesses with heart, humour and a whole lot of grit. Some are just a couple of years in, others have been in business for over a decade. But all of them have stories worth hearing.
A quick peek at the first 10 episodes:
✨ Freya Padmore on website must-haves, SEO tips and building visibility (plus, we talk about mental health in business in Part 1).
✨ Janette Wong on reframing your mindset and finding clarity in the chaos.
✨ Jess Hellens on building a community-led business with Wild, burnout recovery, and being brave enough to do things differently (Part 1 & Part 2).
✨ Siobhan Strode on speaking up, showing up, and building a values-led brand (again, with two parts).
✨ Georgia Freshwater-Blizzard on marketing for makers, mental health, and the power of storytelling (and yep, Part 2 is a good one too!).
We cover everything from burnout and branding to SEO, social media, slow seasons, pricing, imposter syndrome and saying no to things that no longer serve you. It’s honest, unfiltered, and full of the good stuff I wish I’d heard when I was starting out.
What I’ve Learned (So Far)
Done is better than perfect. Honestly, I could’ve spent another six months tweaking the intro music or re-recording my first awkward episode. But I knew the magic wasn’t in the polish - it was in the sharing.
People are craving real. Every message I’ve received has been about how refreshing it is to hear honest conversations. No performative pep talks. Just people talking about the actual behind-the-scenes of business.
Audio is intimate. There’s something about podcasting that lets you get closer. Like chatting with a friend while doing laundry or walking the dog.
Visibility doesn’t have to be loud. This podcast has been a gentle, sustainable way to show up consistently - for my brand and my audience - without dancing on Reels (not that there’s anything wrong with that… I just prefer using my voice).
A Huge Thank You
To everyone who’s listened, shared, reviewed, DMed or recommended an episode - thank you. This little podcast project has already become one of my favourite parts of what I do. And to the guests who’ve trusted me with their stories: you’ve made this so much more than I imagined.
What’s Next?
I’m still editing already recorded episodes and have more recordings lined up (there’s a brilliant one coming soon about utilising PR to grow your business). I’ve got dream guests I want to get on, new questions I’m itching to ask, and a few surprises planned for the future.
So if you haven’t listened yet, come join us. Bring your coffee, your chaos, your camera-shy creative energy - and remember that you’re allowed to figure it out as you go.
We all are.
🎧 Listen to Work in Progress with Nicole Engelmann
➡️ Follow or subscribe on your favourite platform
➡️ Or catch me on Instagram where I share behind-the-scenes bits (and the occasional hot take)
