‘Something to Say’: Greg DeShields on Passion, Purpose, and Podcasting
Photo courtesy of Greg DeShields website.
BY MADISON JOLLEY | For AC JosepH Media
CHERRY HILL — When Greg DeShields launched his podcast “Something to Say with Greg DeShields” in April 2024, his goal was not just to join the growing wave of podcast creators.
It was to offer a platform where people could speak freely and thoughtfully about what drives them. At its core, the podcast is about exploring the relationship between passion and purpose, and how that combination can empower individuals to create meaningful change.
“I had produced a podcast years ago for about seven years,” DeShields said. “When I looked at the way society was evolving and reflected on my own experience, I realized that a show focused on passion and how it plays a role in both our personal and professional lives could really connect with a wide audience.”
That idea became the heart of Something to Say, a show designed to be inclusive and accessible. Guests come from various backgrounds and professions, and each episode offers a space for them to speak honestly about their journeys.
DeShields explained that the podcast was never meant to appeal to just one type of person or career path. It is about the common thread of passion and how it helps people move forward in life.
The concept came to life during his time with the Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau, where he gained hands-on experience in podcast development. Over the course of seven years, he built the technical skills needed to produce a professional-quality show.
“That time gave me a real head start,” he said. “I learned how to script episodes, develop a format, and understand how branding and marketing play a role in podcast growth. A lot of first-time podcasters have to figure all of that out, but I had already done it.”
Entering its second season, Something to Say continues to grow its audience. One element that defines the podcast is the question DeShields asks at the end of every interview: Do you have something to say? While simple, it encourages deep reflection and has led to some of the most impactful moments on the show.
“That question really makes people think,” he said. “They take their time with it, and the answers are always powerful. They speak about community, about grace, about the need to come together. And that has been one of the most meaningful parts of the experience for me, seeing how this platform can help people share something real and hopeful.”
DeShields also believes podcasts offer a valuable opportunity to explore issues in more depth than traditional media often allows. In a time when many feel overwhelmed by quick takes and soundbites, the podcast format creates room for nuance and sincerity.
“It is important that people have a space where they can share their thoughts,” he said. “We are not all going to think the same way, but we should all be able to express ourselves in a way that uplifts others. Podcasts allow us to take a step back, go deeper, and speak honestly about how we can make things better.”
As someone who understands both the art and the business of podcasting, DeShields is honest about the challenges. Many creators approach podcasting as a passion project, which means they often do not think about how to grow it into something sustainable.
“It is important to understand why you are doing it,” he said. “You may not make money right away, and there will be sacrifices. But if you lead with passion and focus on building something people want to listen to, you can grow it into something more.”
He noted that one of the best ways to eventually scale a podcast is by developing strong partnerships. DeShields works with the Alive Podcast Network, a distribution platform created by entrepreneur Angel Levis, who has built a community of over 50 Black podcasters.
Through this network, Something to Say is not only available on traditional streaming platforms, but also accessible through services like Hulu, Roku, and Amazon Fire Stick.
“She has done incredible work,” DeShields said. “We also use RSS.com, which provides tools that help track and analyze performance. That data is essential when you want to understand how your podcast is reaching people and how you can improve.”
When asked to choose a favorite episode, DeShields pointed to the season one wrap-up, a compilation of memorable moments from past guests.
“It was so powerful to hear those voices all together,” he said. “Each one offered something unique, but when you hear them in a series, it feels like a chorus of hope, strength, and inspiration.”
For anyone considering starting a podcast, DeShields encourages creators to focus on intention and consistency.
“Start with a clear purpose,” he advised. “Know what you want to say and who you want to reach. Then build from there. And make sure you have a solid plan for how you’re going to get your content out into the world.”
In a media landscape full of noise, Something to Say offers a calm and thoughtful space. Through conversations that highlight courage, creativity, and commitment, Greg DeShields reminds listeners that their voice is powerful—and that what they have to say truly matters.
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