Podcaster Starter Kit: What You Need to Get Started

The podcasting industry has exploded over the last few years. According to Statista,

• In 2006, only 22 percent of the adult population in the United States was aware of podcasting.
• By 2022, this figure had risen to 79 percent.
• Podcasting is an increasingly popular pastime in the U.S with 79 percent of respondents being aware of the format
• More than 82 million people listened to podcasts in 2021.
• This number is estimated to rise even further, reaching more than 100 million listeners in 2024.

Besides the learning and entertainment lure of podcasts is its mobility. Listen to your favorite podcast while gardening, cleaning or commuting. With its ability to engage and entertain audiences through audio storytelling, people are eager to start their own podcasts.

Keep reading; we’ll walk you through the basics of what you’ll need to start your own podcast.

Podcast topics

Selecting the right podcast topics is crucial to your podcast’s success. They should roll up to your overarching niche, but not be so narrow as to limit your growth–you need some flexibility. If you’re not sure how to do this, look at competitors or colleagues in your niche and see how they’re organizing and producing their podcasts. Pay attention to how they align with their website content and blogs.

Writing a script

It doesn’t get more fundamental than this

You have two ways to influence your listeners—with quality content and quality audio. Brainstorm podcast topics that align with your ideal customer’s interests.

If you haven’t created a persona, this is a good time to do this. It will help you define your target audience. It’s important to choose topics that excite you and align with your passions and your niche, as podcasting is a lot of work, and it requires a commitment. Conduct market research to determine if there is an audience for your chosen topic and if there is room for your podcast to stand out among existing shows. Once you’ve settled on topics, it’s time to start writing a script.

Interview podcasts: In an interview podcast, the script primarily focuses on preparing questions for your guest and outlining the flow of the conversation. Research your guest’s background, accomplishments, and areas of expertise to create thoughtful and engaging questions. Share your questions with your guests so they know exactly what you’re going to be asking—no surprises. If time permits, schedule a dress rehearsal. You really can’t be too prepared. Adding another person adds to the complexity of your production. Be sure to go through a review and approval cycle prior to the podcast.

Storytelling podcasts: Storytelling podcasts require scripts that paint vivid pictures in the listeners’ minds. Begin by outlining the main plot points or key messages you want to convey. This will be a narrative format, so use descriptive language, dialogues and pacing techniques to captivate your audience. Use hooks and cliffhangers so your audience anticipates the next episode. This blogpost explains the script-writing processin more detail.

Building your podcast “studio”

Creating a functional and comfortable podcast studio is essential for producing high-quality audio content. Find the quietest place in your home or office. Avoid ringing doorbells, sirens and barking dogs. It may be a closet, where clothes can muffle sounds or a bathroom, where towels absorb noise. You may need to invest in acoustic treatment to improve sound quality.  

Purchase a reliable microphone, headphones, and a microphone stand to ensure clear and professional audio. Additionally, having a computer or laptop with sufficient processing power and storage is necessary for recording and editing your podcast episodes.

Essential podcast equipment

• A high-quality microphone and headphones
• A pop filter helps reduce plosive sounds
• A microphone preamp enhances the audio signal.
• A mixer allows you to control audio levels and add effects
• A soundproof booth or portable vocal booth can further improve sound quality
• A good microphone cable and audio interface are necessary to connect your microphone to your computer.

Selecting the best podcast editing software

Once you’ve recorded your podcast episodes, you’ll need reliable podcast editing software to refine your audio. With podcast editing software, you’ll be able to add special effects and music. There are various options, many are free. Some popular choices include Murf.ai, Riverside.fm and Podbean. The free versions well may be too limited and you’ll need to upgrade, though the upgrades start at $15/month or so. Consider your budget, level of expertise, and the specific features you require when selecting the best podcast editing software for your needs. Read the reviews and consider value and cost.

Recording and editing your podcast episodes

Now that you have your podcast studio set up and your editing software in place, it’s time to start recording and editing your podcast episodes. Begin by creating a script or outline for each episode to ensure a smooth flow of content. When recording, remember to speak clearly and maintain a consistent volume. After recording, import your audio files into your chosen editing software and remove any mistakes or unwanted sections. Enhance the audio quality by applying noise reduction, equalization, and compression techniques. Finally, add any intro or outro music and export your finished episode.

Hosting and distributing your podcast

Once your podcast episodes are edited and ready to go, you’ll need a reliable hosting platform to store and distribute your content. There are numerous podcast hosting platforms available, each with its own pricing structure and features. Some popular options include Libsyn, Podbean, and Anchor. Consider factors such as storage space, analytics, ease of use, and integration with podcast directories when selecting the best hosting platform for your podcast.

The importance of podcast promotion

Creating great content is only half the battle. To grow your podcast’s audience, you need to actively promote your show. Utilize social media platforms, such as Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook, to engage with your audience and share episodes. Collaborate with other podcasters or industry experts to cross-promote each other’s shows. Additionally, consider reaching out to relevant blogs, websites, or media outlets for potential guest appearances or features. Podcast promotion requires consistency and persistence, but the rewards are well worth the effort.

Best podcast apps for hosting and distribution

When it comes to hosting and distributing your podcast, choosing the right podcast app is crucial. This exploding industry has seen a number of new apps hitting the market. Think about ease of use, analytics, monetization options, and integration with other platforms. Some top podcast apps include Apple Podcasts, Podbean and Spotify.

Research each platform’s features and audience reach to determine which best aligns with your podcasting goals and target audience. While some of these apps have free versions, they are often so limited that you’ll find that you need to upgrade to the next level. Podbean is an interesting app that is trying to be an everything app. From creation to monetization. Create your podcast on your smartphone. So much for a studio and expensive equipment.

Podcast analytics and tracking

To measure the success of your podcast and make informed decisions, it’s important to utilize podcast analytics and tracking tools. These tools provide valuable insights into your audience demographics, episode performance, and listener engagement. Platforms such as Chartable, Podtrac, and Blubrry offer comprehensive analytics solutions for podcasters. By analyzing this data, you can refine your content, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions to continually improve your podcast.

Benefits and monetization of your podcast

A podcast lets you share your stories with a global audience. It’s a platform to connect and build a community around your content. Podcasting can enhance your personal brand, establish you as an authority in your niche and open up opportunities for monetization. Know that monetization should be a longer-term goal. It’s going to take some time to get your equipment, set up your studio, learn how to interview guests and market your podcast to build a following.

Monetization strategies include sponsorships, affiliate marketing, merchandise sales, and listener donations. Research potential advertisers or sponsors within your niche and reach out to them with a compelling pitch. Consider creating premium content or offering exclusive bonuses to your loyal listeners as a way to generate revenue.

Podcasting resources and communities

As a podcaster, it’s essential to stay connected with the podcasting community and take advantage of available resources and communities. There are numerous online forums, Facebook and LinkedIn groups and communities dedicated to podcasting where you can network with fellow podcasters, ask questions and share experiences. Industry-specific websites, podcasts, and conferences can provide valuable insights and opportunities to help you continuously improve your podcasting skills.

Conclusion

• Successful podcasting requires commitment and the right tools.
• You’ll need the basics: Your computer, a podcast studio, headphones, microphone, hosting, editing software and a pop filter.
• You’ll also want to follow up with your listeners. Create a transcript and show notes. Send out show notes before the podcast with information about what you’ll be covering during the podcast, the name and bio of your guest. Send the transcript after the podcast. Post both of these to your website.
• Podcasting is a journey. Start out slowly and you’ll continue to learn and grow.

Contact Top of Mind Marketing. We’re writers and digital media specialists, 510.292.1843, jpeischel@top-mindmarketing.com