Figure 1 Your initial outlay should not be too much
It may feel like everyone and their mom has their own podcast these days. But the popularity of podcasts doesn’t look like slowing down any time soon, so if you’ve always fancied giving it a go, it is good to know that there is still room on the market for another compelling production.
Podcasts have become as big as online sportsbooks in recent years, as the technology has become more affordable and accessible. Just about every celebrity and sports athlete is sharing their opinions on everything from politics to extra points – and you know you can be just as compelling as any of them.
It doesn’t matter if you have, let’s say, limited technical know-how. You come up with great ideas and we will help with the rest. With that in mind, here is a step-by-step guide to producing your own podcast. Just remember us when you are winning all the awards!
Choose a Topic
This may seem like the most obvious starting point. But you do have to put some thought into the subject of your podcast, even if you already have a pretty good idea. Think about what you have to offer on your chosen subject and why people will want to download or listen to every episode.
You should be ready to commit to your podcast too. Even if you are planning a specific number of episodes and telling a particular story, you need to be able to see that plan through. If you don’t seem to interested in producing a quality podcast about something interesting – that you can provide a unique perspective on – then why should anyone else want to listen?
Decide on a Format
The subject of your podcast will influence your decision on what format it will take. If you want to add to the wide range of football podcasts, for example, you will probably want to include interviews – or even work with a co-host. If your podcast has a historical theme, a solo show might work better.
It really is down to you how you go about this but some subjects will work better in certain formats. Episode length is not really important, although you do need to think about how long your story will take to tell and what your potential audience will want. The main thing to remember is that you need a consistent and regular publishing schedule so that your listeners don’t forget about you.
Get Equipment
This is where you could get very carried away and spend a lot of money. But there is no need to break the bank to get a good sound. The most important piece of equipment is a microphone and you could get one very cheaply if funds are low. But do invest as much as you can if possible. A decent USB mic will plug directly into your computer and not cost too much at all.
It is crucial that you also buy a mount for your microphone. This will hold it firmly in place and avoid any annoying movement sounds. Foam balls will also stop any popping – trust us, your listeners will appreciate it. There are also some very good free software programs to use for your recording.
Choose a Hosting Service
This is an element of podcast producing that you will probably have little experience of before you begin. But it is crucial in actually getting people to have the ability to listen. Again, there are very good options that won’t take up too much of your budget. But do check what you get for your subscription.
You will want your hosting service to be able to publish your podcast to the relevant places and also allow you to share it on your own site. Look out for hosting services that also provide analytics included in the price. That way you can see how your podcast is doing and where it can be improved.
Record Your First Episode
Now you have all the equipment and everything set up you can get around to doing what you have wanted to do all along – press record. Make sure that you have planned an outline for the episode though. You should have a good idea of what the episode is going to sound like even before you start talking.
Speaking of talking, don’t lean in too much on your microphone. A distance of two to four inches should be fine to get the best audio possible. Don’t be nervous and don’t expect greatness. Most first episodes aren’t that good. But keep at it and get the episode in the can. The next step can sort a lot out anyway.
Figure 2 A lot can be done in the editing process
Edit Your Podcast
This is why it doesn’t matter if your first recording went perfectly or not. It is also why you can just repeat yourself or start over on planned sections. You will want to edit your recording using your software to get the best, final product. Again, it may take some time to get used to the editing process.
You should take your time with the editing part of the podcast but just make sure that you are hitting your own deadlines. This is where you can also edit in snippets of music, sound effects, and even other interviews. Remember the ability to fade and try to finish with the most professional version you can and hopefully make your podcast popular.
Spread the Word
Now you hopefully have a top-quality podcast about something that people will want to listen to. But they won’t be able to if they don’t know about it. It is understandable that you may be nervous, or anxious that you will be found out as someone who doesn’t know they are doing. But you’ve come this far…
Make a big deal of the launch of the first episode. You could even turn it into an event if you are feeling particularly sociable. But, however you launch, get on all the social media platforms to spread the word. Cross-promote with other podcasters and get involved with other people working with the same subject. Most of all, be proud of what you have achieved – and tell the world about it.
