What if someone told you you were unemployable?
For Nicolas Comstock, that was a reality that he turned into his motivation. Instead of accepting limitations, he carved out a platform, a community, and a purpose through podcasting. Your story or situation is statistically speaking, different that his. If you’re a small business owner, marketing manager, or a content creator-in-the-making, his journey of overcoming by adapting is one you need to hear.
Let’s break down how Nicolas transformed being “unemployable” into becoming an unstoppable advocate, influencer, and podcaster.
How a Disability Became a Driving Force, Not a Limitation
Nick was put through a series of standardized tests that failed to capture his true capabilities. Nicolas see things and works differently than most do, so the standardized tests weren’t able to show his true abilities, or at least not where he shines. After being told he was unemployable, Nick found a pathway via the State of Ohio’s “career discovery” program.
He didn’t find a job. He found a calling through TikTok and later, podcasting.
“Everyone we talked to said, ‘Nick, you need to do a podcast.’ And I’d been hearing that for years.”
Nick’s personality and gift for communication stood out. And with a little help from his producer, Kyle Goodnight, the Nick Speaks podcast was born.
From TikTok Fame to Podcast Growth
Before launching a full podcast, Nick tested the waters on TikTok with “Miniature Podcasts.” Three videos a day, seven days a week, his content was raw, authentic, and impactful. That hustle grew his following to 67,000 separate followers.
When it came time to go long-form, many of those followers followed.
And it worked. From 400 YouTube subscribers to nearly 700 in a year, Nick proved that organic growth is still possible, when you have a message that matters.
This is why we spend so much time talking about a podcast as a content generation tool. The short and long form content funnels both feed each other. The long form creates content for the short form, which creates that brand recognition that we are all seeking.
How a Podcast Became a Tool for Policy Change
We often talk about how podcasting needs to be done from a place of service. Nick isn’t podcasting just for himself. He’s advocating for real change. A great example of this is how he has used his podcast to help some caregivers get their first pay raise in 20 years. His podcast is more than just entertainment and connecting with people. It’s a call to action.
“People in power from the State of Ohio have told me they listen to my podcast.”
Imagine your podcast becoming a tool that decision-makers take seriously. That’s the potential of consistent, passionate storytelling.
Nick’s next big leap? On-site interviews with senators to drive conversations around disability policy, and not just talk about problems, but offer solutions.
Lessons from the Mic: Mistakes, Fatigue & Pushing Through
Podcasting isn’t always sunshine and viral growth. Nick candidly admits: “Every week I ask myself, ‘Is this really worth it?’” From struggling to find guests to pulling late-night recordings together last-minute, Nick shares the same challenges every solo podcaster faces.
He’s also learned the importance of balance:
Don’t overdo monologues. Listeners love variety and fresh voices.
Don’t chase every piece of feedback. One comment doesn’t mean a format overhaul.
Build a sustainable schedule. Weekly is great, but not at the cost of your sanity.
Your Voice Matters, Even in a Crowded Space
One of Nick’s most powerful messages is for would-be podcasters hesitating to launch. “Everyone has a podcast, but nobody has your voice.” This hits especially hard for business owners and marketing teams stuck in analysis paralysis. Yes, there could be a number of podcasts in your general area . But none of them have your story, your angle, your tone.
This is why we encourage the authenticity and also encourage people to narrow down to their specific experetise. These things are what make your podcasting uniquely you. Nick being authentically him is what has made his podcast such a great tool, and such a big hit. It’s the healthy dose of “Nicolas” that is in each episoide that makes it unique, and valuable.
📈 What This Means for Small Business Podcasting
Nick’s story isn’t just inspirational, it’s a blueprint.
Podcasting builds personal AND brand credibility.
It helps advocates and educators reach new audiences.
It drives opportunities, from speaking gigs to political influence.
You don’t need to be perfect. You need to be persistent.
If you’ve got a story, a product, or a mission, especially one that helps people, then podcasting may be the most authentic way to spread the word.
🚀 Your Turn: Take the Leap
Nick’s final advice sums it up perfectly. “You’re going to regret it if you don’t. And life has enough regrets already. Don’t let this be one of them.”
So whether you’re thinking about launching a branded podcast or using audio content to amplify your mission, start now.