Podcasts have taken the world by storm and each day more people join in to create or listen. 41% of Americans say they listen to podcasts at least once a month, while 28% say they tune in weekly. Getting started with podcast creation is relatively easy and can be inexpensive. Read through our beginner tips to get a jump on your podcast journey!
What You Need to Start a Podcast
Space to Record
Recording space is crucial for audio quality. Small, quiet spaces with soft objects is ideal to minimize echoes and ambient noise. You can even use a closet for a cozy at-home recording space. Be sure the place you choose is free from interruptions and comfortable.
Computer/Laptop
A trusty computer or laptop is essential for podcast creation. You’ll record, edit, and store your audio files on this device. Make sure it has plenty of storage or use an external or cloud-based drive to back up your materials.
Microphone
Podcasts are all about the audio so it’s important that your voice comes across clearly. You can purchase a USB microphone which plugs directly into your computer to capture your audio. They’re super simple to use and will make a huge difference in your audio quality.
Noise-Cancelling Headphones
Become immersed in your podcasting with a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. They’ll block out all outside noise, so you can focus on editing your audio files. Since they’re blocking out excess noise, you’ll be able to spot details you might have missed by listening to the audio from your computer’s speakers.
Audio Recording & Editing Software
You’ll need to choose a software to record and edit your audio. There are free software options for editing such as Audacity, which is great for getting started. But if you’re looking for something more advanced, Adobe Audition is a good investment. All available software has its pros and cons, so do your research to determine which is best for you!
Theme, Audience, & Name
What’s your podcast about? Choosing a podcast theme can be a daunting task, but without it, your podcast will lack cohesion. Try to choose a theme you’re familiar with or that you’d be willing to research thoroughly to create rich content.
Once you’ve settled on a theme, decide who your target audience is. This will help you choose how you’ll speak during your podcast and what discussion points to bring up. If your target audience is young moms, you’d probably speak to them differently than 50+ year old’s.
Great progress! You’ve chosen a theme and know who your audience is, now what will you call your podcast? You can use your name, make a pun, be witty, or whatever you feel like. Don’t be afraid to make it unique, after all, you want to stand out from the crowd!
Cover Art
Design attractive cover art to accompany your podcast. There are lots of free online tools to help bring your vision to life. Make sure it’s representative of your theme and overall vibe. It’s always a good idea to include your podcast’s title in the cover art.
Media Host
The media host will store your digital audio files and allow users to listen to, subscribe, and download your podcast episodes. A reliable host is important because you can’t upload your podcast directly to iTunes or Spotify without a host to support the files.
Podcast Directories Plan
With a media host supporting your audio files, you’ll be able to submit your podcast episodes to directories. The most popular podcast directories are Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Play. If you’ve chosen a reliable media host, they should have a set of guided submissions or auto-submission tools to easily submit your podcasts to the directories.
Time To Get Recording!
Well, you made it through our podcast basics! Knock out all the items above and then get to work on producing your first podcast episode. If you have other podcasting questions, be sure to read our Podcast Housekeeping Rules and Podcast Guest Checklist or learn more about our services here. Contact us with any questions you may have!
