Emma Radebaugh
The popularity of podcasting is rising for a reason. The medium offers a lot of flexibility in terms of content and format. It’s also easy to jump right into it with no prior experience—but just how do you start a podcast? Follow these eight steps and you can begin producing original content on your own today.
1. Choose a Topic
We recommend that you first decide on a specific subject for your show before you start recording. This topic can include entertainment, business, politics, pretty much anything—just make sure you cover something you’re passionate about. There are also solo, co-hosted, and interview podcast formats to think about.
2. Pick a Name
Now that you have a topic you want to cover, you’ll want to create a clever name. You’ll want to do some research on iTunes or Stitcher to see what names aren’t being used. You can get creative, be descriptive, and/or include your own name. Whatever you choose, be wary of keyword stuffing and long titles. If you’re not careful, iTunes will punish you.
3. Define Your Show’s Description and Artwork
You will now want to hone in on a show description that will display on various podcasting outlets. You’ll also need artwork that will catch the eyes of potential listener. We recommend that you create a cover by using an app like Canva or Snappa. You should also make sure to design an image that’s works in a variety of sizes.
4. Get the Appropriate Equipment
Your idea may be evolving, but you’ll need to get some equipment to make your podcast possible. The easiest way to make it sound great is by having a computer and purchasing the following:
- USB Microphone
- Boom Arm
- Shock Mount
- Pop Filter or Wind Screen
5. Create a Plan for Your Episode
Before the actual recording takes place, you want to plan out the episode. Also make sure that anybody else who is involved is on the same page before you start. This may include having a script on hand if necessary.
6. Record Your Episode
It’s now time to actually record the show. Garage Band (for Mac users) and Audacity (for those on PC) are free and are among the most popular recording programs. In the software, you will want to create a new project and make sure you press record.
7. Edit Your Episode
Once you are finished with your episode, put on a pair of headphones and listen to what you’ve recorded. You’ll want to cut the audio where necessary, make sure the sound is good, and add in any music you’ve planned to include.
8. Share it With the World
After you edit the episode, export the file as an .mp3 and set up a podcast RSS feed so listeners can easily subscribe. Then set up a podcasting host by using libsyn or buzzsprout to create your podcast feed link. You will then submit your RSS feed link to a number of different platforms like iTunes, Spotify, or Google podcasts to get approved and eventually shared with the world.
