Inspiring Conversations with Paige Ruderman of So Rude Podcast

Today we’d like to introduce you to Paige Ruderman

Hi Paige, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My name is Paige Ruderman, and I’m the founder and host of the So Rude Podcast—your backstage pass to the vibrant world of music, songwriting, and life in Nashville, Tennessee.

The So Rude Podcast launched on July 4th, 2020, but my journey to podcasting started long before that. Prior to the podcast, I ran a blog during and after graduate school. It was a great outlet for stretching my voice as a writer, and it gave me a chance to explore topics that fascinated me. While I loved the blog and had fun diving into all sorts of subjects, I eventually realized that the written word captured only a small part of my creative voice. There’s something special about hearing someone speak passionately about a topic—the tone, the inflections, the emotional impact—that just doesn’t translate onto the page.

I also describe myself as a consumer of content. I love discovering new blogs, books, YouTube channels, and podcasts to explore. As I listened to more and more podcasts, I was drawn to how personal they felt. I loved hearing the hosts engage with their guests and each other in real time. The idea that I, too, could have these kinds of conversations with people was a seed that was planted in my mind.

The opportunity to test this out came while I was in graduate school when I hosted my first interview for someone else’s podcast. The experience was a game-changer. I had so much fun chatting with the guest, engaging in a back-and-forth that didn’t need to be translated into an article—it was just real-time, organic conversation. I was hooked. But even after that, it took almost a year for me to take the plunge and start my own show.

Then came 2020, a year when everything changed. With so much free time at home, I realized how much I enjoyed staying busy and keeping multiple projects going at once. I started taking 2-3 walks a day just to get out of the house. During those walks, I found myself listening to 2-4 hours of podcasts every day. That’s when the idea hit me: “I could do this. I could ask questions as well, if not better, than some of the podcasts I love listening to.” So, I decided to go for it.

I picked a name, designed a logo, recorded my first episode, and launched the So Rude Podcast. Fast forward to today, and we’ve just posted our 104th episode! What started as a solo audio show has evolved into a music podcast that features a wide range of amazing guests. We’ve even launched a YouTube channel where we share video episodes for listeners who want to experience the conversation in a whole new way.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Overall, the road has been smoother than I expected, but it didn’t happen overnight. It came when I realized that no one was going to make the decision for me or pull me along the path. If I wanted to do something, I could either wait for help forever, or just take it one step at a time. Once the decision was made to launch, there was no stopping me. But let me tell you—it was terrifying!

What if I didn’t like hearing the sound of my own voice? (Newsflash: No one likes it at first, but it does get easier over time.)
What if I ran out of things to talk about? Well, the best part is, the only person I really need to entertain is me! Luckily, I’ve gotten great feedback from my amazing listeners, and I tend to pick topics that resonate with them too.

What if I couldn’t find guests? I learned quickly that you’ll hear a lot of “no’s” before you get a “yes.” So, I started small and focused on people in my network who I found interesting and whose stories I enjoyed. Since I was starting with people already in my corner, it made it easier to build momentum and get others on board.

There were also technical challenges, like not knowing how to use specific software or troubleshoot audio issues. But my biggest piece of advice to anyone starting out is: Don’t be afraid to ask questions. It might feel daunting, but whether it’s tech support or advice from someone in the industry, most people are happy to help or share their experiences.

Looking ahead, I anticipate some new challenges, like bringing on sponsors and ads—something I’ve never done before. But if I keep trusting my gut and asking the right questions, I know I’ll figure it out, just like everything else.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
As a podcast host, I specialize in finding out-of-the-box topics. Naturally inquisitive, I’ve built strong relationships with a diverse range of fascinating guests, making every episode a fresh exploration. I treat each show as if I were the listener — meaning I only release episodes I would personally find valuable. By prioritizing the listener’s experience, I’m confident anyone tuning in will walk away feeling like their time was well spent.

The So Rude Podcast is dedicated to songwriters and artists, but it stands out from other music podcasts by connecting seemingly unrelated topics in ways that offer real value to creatives. Whether it’s breaking down industry trends, sharing practical tips, or having in-depth conversations with A-list musicians and industry professionals, the show is designed to inspire and inform. Some of my top episodes include interviews with a voting member of the Recording Academy, a touring band member of a major artist, and a deep dive into how to stay productive when a co-write gets canceled.

I’m incredibly proud of all that the So Rude Podcast has accomplished, especially celebrating its 4th anniversary in 2024. I can’t wait to see where the show goes next — the best is yet to come!

Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
Growing up in Delaware, I always felt like I didn’t quite fit in. I played music in school and marching bands, made lasting friendships in college, but when graduation came, most of my friends headed home. With so many people I knew moving to places like Philadelphia or New York, I often visited those cities. While I always had a good time, I never felt that spark, that sense of “this is where I belong.” I heard people say, “The minute I stepped into the Big Apple, it felt like home,” but I never had that experience.

Then, one day, I visited Nashville. The moment I stepped off the plane, I knew I had found my place. I was surrounded by people who shared the same passion and vision as me. I felt an instant connection, like I could finally build the life I’d always dreamed of but never imagined was possible. Since moving, I’ve immersed myself in the songwriter community and the local culture—and it truly feels like home.

The only downside? Nashville doesn’t have any beaches. Having grown up near the water, living in a landlocked city can be a bit of a bummer at times, but the community here makes up for it in ways I never expected.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.sorudemedia.com/so-rude-podcast
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sorude.podcast
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sorudepodcast/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/sorudepodcast
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SoRudePodcast
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@sorude.podcast