Introduction to Podcasting: A Beginner's Guide

 

Podcasting has taken off in the last ten years, from just a few thousand to millions across news and education, then to entertainment and personal stories. 

If you are new to this world of podcasting, interested on how to get started, this guide is going to take you through the basics and set you on your journey of creating your own podcast.

#1 What is a Podcast?

In simple terms, a podcast is an audio series that runs on a common theme or topic. Podcasts are on-demand and usually broadcast over Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or Google Podcasts. Podcasts are unlike normal radio as anyone can create them if they have the equipment and something interesting to say.

#2 Why start a podcast?

Podcasting opens a more creative way for one to express himself, share knowledge, and engage with the audience. 

It helps you reach an audience worldwide, build your identity or brand, create a community with the same interest in which you can monetize through sponsorships, ads, or premium content. 

#3 The Basic Equipment You Need: 

Starting a podcast doesn't require many investments, but getting decent equipment will go a long way in enhancing the quality of your show. 

Here's what you'll need:

Microphone: The microphone is the most important part in recording clear audio. 

For beginners, a good starting point could be the USB microphones the Blue Yeti or Audio-Technica AT2020.

Headphones: Monitor your audio with headphones as you record and edit.

Recording Software: Software such as Audacity-record and edit with the free version-or Adobe Audition-record and edit with the paid version-allows you to record and edit your episodes.

Hosting Platform: You are going to have to host your episodes. Many solutions exist, including Libsyn, Buzzsprout, or Anchor.

#4 Choose Your Podcast Format:

You need a format for your podcast. Some of the most popular formats include:

Solo: One person speaks on a topic.

Interview: The podcaster interviews guests, and they share insight on a topic.

Co-hosted: This is where two or more people discuss several topics, usually conversationally.

Storytelling: A fiction or non-fiction story presented in episodic or serial form.

#5 Outline Your Podcast:

Before you record anything, take some time to plan your podcast.

Here's how to begin:

Define Your Niche: Pick a subject that you like, and will captivate your audience.

Structure of the Episode: How long will your episodes be? Will it run at 20 minutes or one hour in length? Do you have a repetitive introduction or segments?

Consistency: How often are your podcasts? Weekly? Twice weekly? Monthly?

Podcast Name: the name of your podcast should correlate to what your show's content entails, it should also be catchy and sensible to your target audience.

#6 Recording and Editing:

Once you are done brainstorming over your podcast you are ready to record. 

Here is a quick way you can make recording smooth:

Find a quiet place to cut the background noise.

Speak clearly and at a moderate pace.

With the recording software, you may edit out the mistakes, add music or even insert ads.

#7 Publishing and Promoting Your Podcast:

After editing, upload your podcast onto a hosting site. 

Your hosting site should automatically produce an RSS feed. 

It is this feed that will allow Apple Podcasts or Spotify to syndicate your episodes. 

Promote your podcast in social media, on a website, or through other podcasters. 

This will boost listenership.

#8 Monetizing Your Podcast:

Once you have a core following, you can monetize through a range of options:

Sponsorships: Partner up with brands in order to run ads throughout your episodes.

Listener Support: This is given through platforms such as Patreon, through which your listeners can support you directly.

Merchandising: Sell branded merchandise or exclusive content.

Podcasting is an exciting and accessible way to share your voice and connect with others. 

With the right equipment, planning, and commitment, you can launch your own podcast and join a rapidly growing community of podcasters all around the world. 

Now that you have had an overview, it is time to begin brainstorming, recording, and publishing your unique content!