If you’ve ever dreamed about starting a podcast, this episode gives you a rare look at what it’s really like — from someone living it right now.
Host John Quick sits down with Manny Coelho, creator and host of The State I Am In — an in-person, long-form podcast that explores the people, stories, and ideas shaping life in Alaska. Together, they dive into the realities of building a show from scratch: finding your voice, learning the gear, choosing guests, and staying motivated when most podcasts fade.
Manny shares honest insights from his first dozen episodes, the behind-the-scenes challenges that few talk about, and what keeps him pressing record week after week. Whether you’re thinking about starting your own show or just curious about the creative process, this conversation will leave you inspired — and a little more ready to begin.
🎧 Listen and learn more about Manny’s work:
🌐 Website: https://thestateiamin.com/
📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thestateiamin
John Quick, the curator and host of "United States of Small Business," takes his audience on a profound journey into the essence of American entrepreneurship. Through his platform, listeners gain a unique insight into the lives, victories, and hurdles faced by small business owners across the nation. This podcast not only highlights their stories but also serves as a beacon of innovation and resilience in the business world.
Achieving a remarkable position at #134 on iTunes in its category and securing a place among the Top 50 Best Small Business Podcasts by FeedSpot, "United States of Small Business" has earned national acclaim. However, it's important to note that these accolades are a direct reflection of the incredible stories and wisdom shared by the guests on the show. Their willingness to open up about their journeys and the lessons they've learned along the way is what truly makes this podcast stand out.
John's role in facilitating these conversations on different podcast, has been recognized with several prestigious awards, including a 2023 Gold Communicator Award, a 2023 AVA Gold Award, a 2022 Dot Com Gold Award, and a 2022 Viddy Honorable Mention, along with a spot in FeedSpot’s Top 30 Talk Show Podcasts in the US. While these honors are testament to the compelling nature of the content that his guests bring to the table. Their stories of determination, creativity, and perseverance are what truly captivate and inspire the podcast's audience.
"United States of Small Business" is more than a podcast; it's a platform that celebrates the collective spirit and insights of America's entrepreneurs. Each episode serves as a tribute to those who have taken the leap into business ownership, offering their personal experiences as a source of inspiration and guidance to others.
