The Power of Your Voice, Your Story, + Truly Listening with Bethany Hawkins | ep 12
the power of your voice, your story, and truly listening with bethany hawkins
When I think about the people shaping the podcasting world in ways that actually matter—Bethany Hawkins is at the top of that list.
Bethany is the CEO and Founder of Crackers In Soup, a podcast production company amplifying historically underrepresented voices. She's spent over 18 years in the corporate world and now she helps people bring their voices to life in the podcast space. Her approach is rooted in intention, authenticity, and service—which made her the perfect guest for a life differently.
This conversation with Bethany hit deep. We talked about how to find your voice, the power of your story, and why listening is the most underrated superpower when it comes to both podcasting and life.
your voice is not too much
Bethany’s story is one of reclaiming her own voice—after years of being told it was "too much." Too loud, too expressive, too direct. Sound familiar?
"I’ve been in places where my voice was silenced, and when you experience that enough, you start to believe your voice doesn’t matter. But your voice does matter. Your story matters."
Bethany reminded me—and all of us—that just because someone else couldn’t handle your truth, doesn’t mean your truth isn’t worth telling. She emphasized that the more we share our stories, the more we give others permission to share theirs.
"There’s power in being able to say, 'I went through this, and I made it.' That’s the heartbeat of storytelling."
your story is enough (right now)
You don’t have to wait until you’ve arrived at some perfect moment to start sharing. Bethany made this crystal clear: your story doesn’t need to be wrapped in a bow. It’s not about being polished—it’s about being real.
"People think they have to be ‘healed’ or successful before they can tell their story. But that’s not real life. You’re living the story. That’s what makes it relatable."
This really stuck with me, especially as someone who’s felt the pressure to be further along before speaking up. Bethany gives us all permission to speak from the middle—not just the mountaintop.
listening is a love language
One of my favorite parts of our conversation was when we talked about listening—not just as a skill, but as an act of care.
"A lot of people listen to respond. They’re waiting for their turn to talk. But true listening? That’s where intimacy happens. That’s where connection lives."
Bethany spoke about listening not only as a producer, but as a human. As someone who’s spent her life witnessing the nuance in people’s voices, she understands the importance of holding space without needing to fix or rush.
"People don’t always need you to solve the problem. They just need you to hear them."
If you’re someone who wants to start a podcast—or already has one—this is the reminder that podcasting isn’t just about speaking. It’s about listening with your whole body.
career changes, community, and doing it your way
Bethany’s career journey from corporate to creative entrepreneurship is powerful in itself. But what stood out most is how she did it her way. With joy. With boundaries. With zero desire to mimic someone else’s path.
She shared how community became a core pillar in her business. From supporting Black women podcasters to helping clients feel seen in their storytelling, Bethany has created more than a company—she’s built a movement.
"I’ve always wanted people to feel like their voices are valid. Because for a long time, mine wasn’t. And now I get to be the person who says, ‘Speak louder.’"
Whew. Let that one land.
a moment for podcasters (and anyone finding their voice)
Whether you’re a podcaster, a storyteller, or someone just trying to be more of yourself—this episode is full of gems.
Here are a few takeaways:
Your story is powerful now, not just in hindsight.
Listening deeply can change your relationships—and your platform.
Authenticity doesn’t mean oversharing; it means being true to yourself.
You’re allowed to do it differently.
Bethany Hawkins is proof that you don’t need permission to speak up—but if you’ve been waiting for a sign, this is it.
💬 Ready to Explore This More?
connect with Bethany Hawkins:
website: crackersinsoup.com
LinkedIn: @crackersinsoup
If this episode spoke to you, share it with someone who needs to hear it. And if you’re building a life that breaks the rules and honors your truth, make sure you’re subscribed—because these are the conversations we need to have.
Until next time, keep listening, keep sharing, and keep doing life differently.
Hey there, I’m Ronni
I help people unlearn, heal, and step into a life that’s actually theirs. Around here, we question the rules, embrace the magic, and just see what happens.
When I’m not talking manifestation, you’ll find me lost in a new oracle deck, junk journaling, crocheting, or crafting miniatures for my dollhouse.