According to a study by Edison Research, 80 million Americans listen to podcasts each week. Since the audience for podcasts is on the rise, this is the ideal time to make money with a podcast for your brand or business. Here is everything you need to start a podcast and use it to gain more recognition in your industry.
Tips for Starting a Podcast
The first step in starting a podcast is to make a plan. Determine your target audience. Make some show notes that include an intro and outro.
Choose a topic, podcast format, and podcast name. Remember, the podcast cover is the first impression you make with your podcast. Aim for cover art that measures 1400 x 1400 pixels.
Next, purchase equipment and software for setting up the podcast. Afterward, record your podcast, edit it and finally publish your first episode.
When recording your podcast, consider adding intro music. Search for royalty-free music for your podcast. The music will hook podcast listeners. Search for free music that rhymes with the tone of your show. Also, make sure you record a test episode first before recording the real thing.
Lastly, take time to choose the topic for your podcast before you start recording. Remember, countless hours are involved in researching, recording, writing, and editing a podcast. Therefore, choose a topic you are passionate about.
The more podcast episodes you record, the better you will become at creating podcasts. Each new podcast should target new listeners and incorporate knowledge and experience from former podcasts.
Equipment Needed to Start a Podcast
The recording equipment you need to start a podcast will vary depending on your goals and budget. For a limited budget, a computer is sufficient to start a podcast. You can even podcast with a smartphone using recording apps like Anchor, Podbean, and Spreaker.
However, if you want to make a more detailed podcast that is enjoyable to listen to, acquire this essential podcast equipment:
- A computer
- A sound-proof recording space
- Podcast microphone with the reliable audio quality
- Noise-canceling headphones
- Podcast camera
- Pop filter
- Podcast recording software
Which Podcast Recording and Audio Editing Software Should I Use?
When editing your podcast, you should be keen on sound quality. Many podcast recording software has step-by-step directions on how to edit podcasts.
For beginners, it’s better to start with a free audio recording tool like Audacity. This tool is user-friendly and works across PCs and Macs. Another advantage of this tool is that you can record live audio, edit it and export the podcast into different file formats.
Some popular podcast recording and editing software you should include Reaper, Hindenburg Journalist, Descript, Skype, GarageBand, and Adobe Audition.
You can also record your own podcast on Zoom. This is a free and easy way to record interviews. All you have to do is set up a virtual call with your guests. After everyone has joined the call, you are set to record, press the record button. Finally, Zoom will save the audio and video files to your computer when the meeting is over.
When choosing podcast editing software, some things you should consider include:
- Ease of use
- Studio-quality audio files
- In-recording producer controls
How to Choose a Podcast Hosting Platform
One of the things that confuse beginners is choosing a podcast hosting provider. You should select a service with advanced features to allow you to grow. Some examples of podcast hosting platforms include buzzsprout, castos, and anchor. Here are some things you need to consider when choosing a podcast hosting service.
Storage Capabilities: Think about your storage needs now and in the future. For example, what if you want to produce multiple podcasts later? Storage capabilities also depend on the episode length. For long episodes, consider ample storage. Additionally, ensure the podcast host can host your shows on a separate podcast RSS feed, and you can manage them in one dashboard.
Website Integrations: When choosing the best podcast hosting platform, you need to think about the platform you will use to build your podcast website. Many people opt for WordPress because of the variety of plugins and templates. Therefore, ensure the podcast hosting provider has a WordPress plugin. This will make it easier to manage the show.
You may also opt to host your website using Wix or Squarespace. As you continue to create new episodes, you will find the website platform suited for your business.
Audience: When thinking of starting a podcast, you must consider your audience. To grow your podcast’s engagement, you should tell what’s marketable and what is not. Check the insights of providers.
Marketing Integrations: Some functions that can make your podcast reach more people include transcription services, audiograms, and turning episodes into video content. Hence, choose a hosting provider with all these services.
How to Distribute a Podcast to Listening Platforms
After creating your first podcast, you should distribute it to as many podcast directories as possible. This will ensure it reaches a broad audience on different platforms. A successful podcast should rank well on search engines. Therefore, you should search for tutorials on making your podcast rank well using SEO.
To get started post-production, create an account with each directory and send your RSS feed URL.
In Closing
Podcasts have become popular marketing tools for businesses across all industries. Although internal business communication is important, technology has made external communication much easier to access. Thus, if you want an edge over your competition, exploit the marketing power of podcasts. These pointers will help you make successful podcasts to expand your clientele base.
