11 Commandments of Podcasting
Henry Miller was an American writer best known for his semi-autobiographical novels that blend fiction, memoir, and philosophical reflection, including Tropic of Cancer and Tropic of Capricorn. His books were controversial and often banned in the United States for their candid sexuality and criticism of American culture.
As a podcaster, you'll find his "11 Commandments of Writing" interesting as they directly relate to what we do ...
Work on one thing at a time until finished.
Start no more new books, add no more new material to ‘Black Spring.’
Don’t be nervous. Work calmly, joyously, recklessly on whatever is in hand.
Work according to Program and not according to mood. Stop at the appointed time!
When you can’t create you can work.
Cement a little every day, rather than add new fertilizers.
Keep human! See people, go places, drink if you feel like it.
Don’t be a draught-horse! Work with pleasure only.
Discard the Program when you feel like it—but go back to it next day. Concentrate. Narrow down. Exclude.
Forget the books you want to write. Think only of the book you are writing.
Write first and always. Painting, music, friends, cinema, all these come afterwards.
My modified version for podcasters ...
Focus on one episode or project at a time until it’s done.
Don’t start any new shows or segments—finish what’s in your current season or script first.
Don’t stress. Work calmly, have fun, and get a little wild with what you’re recording right now.
Stick to your schedule, not your mood. Stop working when your calendar says it’s time.
If you can’t record or create, do behind-the-scenes work—editing, planning, outreach.
Build a little every day. Don’t just chase the latest trends or pile on new ideas.
Stay connected. Hang out with people, go places, enjoy life.
Don’t grind yourself down! Only work when it feels good, not out of obligation.
If you need a break from the plan, take it—but get back on track tomorrow. Focus. Simplify.
Forget about future episodes or new podcasts. Pour everything into what’s in front of you.
Recording great tape comes first, always. Marketing, networking, hobbies—those can wait until after you hit “stop.”
Miller’s writing commandments are a reminder that consistency, focus, and joy matter far more than rushing or multitasking. By channeling your energy into what’s in front of you, giving yourself permission to work with intention, not just obligation, you’ll create stronger episodes and avoid burnout.
Stay present and keep your process human. Trust that the best shows come from creators who are fully engaged in the moment.
Hit record, give it your all, and let everything else wait its turn.
