Simple steps to starting your own podcast

If one of your new year’s resolutions is to start a podcast, here are some things you need to know to get started.

Concept: Ensure your idea is actually worthy of multiple episodes and hours — and whether you can commit to it. How does it differ from other podcasts?

Sometimes, the prospect of starting a podcast is like an itch you want to scratch. Once you’ve seen the hours of work required, particularly for the inaugural episode, you might not want to do it again.

Record a dummy episode, or even a couple of them, to try and find your flow. It allows you to iron out some kinks and really explore your idea and its viability.

Frequency: Is your podcast going to be weekly, fortnightly, whenever you decide (note: Apple Podcasts’ algorithm prefers a regular weekly show)?

Equipment: Yes, your phone has a microphone but the quality pales in comparison with what’s out there for even beginner podcasters.

From mic stands to pop guards, decide what you need and what your budget is.

For reference, popular podcaster Adam Buxton has said on his podcast that he uses a couple of wireless/wearable mics when he’s rambling and Rode NT5 mics on stands for his interviews.

A Zoom recorder is a great investment.

Editing: No matter how good you think it is, your recording definitely needs some editing, if only to get rid of some ums, ahs, and tsks. Audacity is an easy-to-use and free editing app for beginners, while Adobe Audition, Acoustica, and Sound Forge Pro are costly but professional.

One saviour might be Auphonic, an automatic audio post production web service.

There are also podcast studio scropping up all over the place that offer a one-stop shop, including equipment, for creators.

Hosting: Getting your podcast on iTunes/Apple Podcasts is key. From its charts to podcast aggregator apps, it all still comes back to Apple — though Spotify might have something to say about that over the next 12 months.

Soundcloud is a handy host: Upload your file and follow the instructions as to how to get it on iTunes every week.

Acast and Podbean are some other services worth investigating.

Other things to consider: Artwork, social media accounts, advertising, theme music, copyrighted music, Patreon and subscriptions, guests — the list is endless.