In terms of the stats, I produced and published over twenty blog posts and nine podcast episodes.
My final podcast episode of the year is a compilation of highlights from each interview, so a good one to listen to if you’re new to the podcast and want to get a flavour of the kind of conversations that feature on each episode.
Lots has gone on behind the scenes too. I’ve developed a short-mid term strategy for the blog and podcast, and a forward look for upcoming activity throughout the year (it’s the Civil Servant in me – I just couldn’t help myself). I’ve also started consolidating some of my observations from the 30+ interviews I’ve conducted (and countless other exchanges in the margins) since creating ‘A Fine Balance’ in 2020. Plus I’ve invested in a few bits of kit to improve the sound quality of my recordings.
In my happy place, recording podcasts in my study in the company of our dog Buddy
I’ve branched out with ‘A Fine Balance‘ much further than before, submitting my first public application; collaborating with another podcaster, Lorna McKenna; and joining up with the parenting expert and author Andrea Cleare to create an online event about working parents finding their work-life balance.
On top of that, I’ve struck up new connections with numerous people from around world, some of whom I look forward to hosting on the podcast in 2024.
Recording a podcast episode of ‘Evolve & Expand’ with Lorna McKenna in June 2023Live on-line event with Anita Cleare about finding balance as a working parent in October 2023: “What works for working parents?”
From a personal perspective, as the year comes to a close, I’m pinching myself that I’m still able to keep this passion project ticking along, evolving my skills as a blogger and podcaster as I go.
It’s certainly not something that I foresaw piling onto the heap of things that I juggle between my work and everything else in my life. It brings such richness both to my portfolio of work and life ambitions, but also to my own work-life balance. I take to heart all of the stories I hear about how other people manage their own juggles, and am consequently very mindful of my priorities and more deliberate in how I spend my time and attention. I don’t always get it right – it’s a fine balance after all – but the value ‘A Fine Balance‘ brings continues to feel worth the time commitment, so I carry on with it as best I can.
Analytics of the podcast’s growth in 2023
Also from a personal perspective, the year 2023 has been largely overshadowed by events that have unfolded since the terrorist attack that took place in Israel on 7th October. Such atrocities afford a heart-breaking perspective on the value of finding a balance that’s right for you. I remain hugely grateful to my friend Dr Ian Moran, who joined me in hastily producing one of my most meaningful podcast episodes. This aired in the early days of the conflict, and provided a platform for Ian to share his professional advice and insights into how to find a balance amidst the devastation and uncertainty of terror and war: EMERGENCY EPISODE: The Pursuit of Balance When You’re Living Through War.
I’d like to extend my thanks to all the other people that have so generously shared their work-life balance stories on the blog and the podcast this year. It has been such an honour and privilege to work together and share your stories.
In January 2024, I’ll be launching the third Season of the podcast, with a slightly tweaked approach (more on that coming out soon). I’m excited to discover more work-life balance stories and to continue showcasing and celebrating the multifaceted complexity of how people choose to flex their work around life, and life around work.
To finish off my final blog post of the year, I’ve copied below some of the feedback I’ve received in 2023 from guests I’ve hosted on my blog and podcast since it first launched in 2020. I feel both embarrassed and humbled to do so, but I’m pleased for their words to be captured here for the record. They mean so very much to me.
Thanks to all those guests that took the time to write testimonials and to the many others who have made contact with me over the year to share their reflections on how they’ve been touched by the content of ‘A Fine Balance’.
I wish all my readers and listeners a happy new year, with hope and goodwill that their pursuit of balance serves them well for the year ahead and beyond.
Gilles Dahan – Work:Life Ratio 80:20
Podcast hosting is an art, and Dalya, with her podcast “A Fine Balance,” has undoubtedly mastered it.
Dalya’s podcast is a wondrous journey into the intimate world of personal experiences and choices made in the pursuit of balance. This theme is an incredibly relevant one, striking chords with individuals across different walks of life. What makes this journey even more special is Dalya’s adept guidance through it.
Right from the start, Dalya fosters an engaging and safe space for her guests, a quality that proves invaluable in promoting open and sincere dialogue. Her approach to the guest is considerate and patient, as she takes pains to elucidate the process and offers plenty of opportunities for review and edits. This thoughtful approach eradicates any pressure that the guest might otherwise feel, allowing them to focus solely on sharing their unique narratives.
But what truly sets Dalya apart is her extraordinary ability to bring the best out of her guests. With her insightful questions and discussion points, Dalya nudges her guests towards delivering profound insights that resonate with the listeners. She has a knack for elevating her guests and their ideas, ultimately fostering a rich, intellectual atmosphere that engrosses the audience.
In traditional podcasts, the guest becomes a teacher, and the listeners, students. But what’s remarkable is that Dalya too, is a learner alongside her audience, an aspect that further humanizes her and makes her relatable.
Dalya’s podcast is a delightful blend of interesting narratives, heartfelt experiences, and thoughtful lessons, all interwoven beautifully under her able leadership. It’s not just a podcast, but a masterclass in storytelling and the exploration of the human spirit’s resilience. It’s a celebration of life’s journey, with all its ups and downs, its twists and turns.
“A Fine Balance” is a testament to the power of stories and their ability to connect, enlighten, and inspire. It’s a podcast that not only speaks to its listeners but listens to them too, offering validation, inspiration, and a sense of camaraderie.
Thanks to Dalya’s exceptional hosting, you’re guaranteed to leave each episode a little wiser, a little more inspired, and eager for the next one.
When I agreed to be interviewed by Dalya I had no idea that I was embarking on what became a really therapeutic journey… I discovered personal insights that I’d never appreciated before… Thank you, Dalya, for allowing me to share some thoughts and special thanks for being such a fantastic and compassionate interviewer.
Annabel Jeffcoate – Work-life balance expert and founder of the consultancy Balance for Teachers:
It was a pleasure to work with Dalya on the podcast. She was open to listening to my ideas and welcomed the opportunity to speak about supporting those who are struggling to find a work-life balance rather than focusing on my story specifically. I love the podcast as a listener and not just as a guest because it opens the door to the question of what a work-life balance could look like and that there isn’t a set answer but rather what works for you. It was a joy to be interviewed as Dalya allows guests to feel comfortable and guides the conversation well.
As a guest of Dalya on her podcast, A Fine Balance, I would like to say what an enjoyable and easy experience it was. The recording went very smoothly, Dalya gave me plenty of question ideas, so I was able to prepare in advance and she was a skilled interviewer, putting me at my ease and reassuring me during our chat. The subject we knew might be a little controversial, but Dalya handled it sensitively and with respect for my choices and views. I was delighted with the final podcast and enjoyed listening to it!
