Throughout my time in podcasting, I’ve noticed several roadblocks that impeded my progress. Some have been more difficult to navigate than others, and through some extensive Googling I’ve been able to make my way. That whole time, I couldn’t help but wish someone had just made a guide for how to get started.
The guides that I’ve been able to find are typically about equipment that can be used in a very specific setting or monetization of shows once they reach a specific audience. Rather than focus on one small aspect of creating a show, I want to cover everything I’ve learned to help you along the way.
If your goal is to record a podcast, look at starting in three phases:
Concept & Hosts, Schedule, Space (face-to-face or VOIP), website & social media, logo), Equipment (microphones, DAW, audio interface, etc.), Episode 0, starting with multiple episodes, Hosting, iTunes connection, distribution, social media, marketing & advertising, livestreams, networking, live shows (coming soon)
Phase One: Preparation
Who are you working with?
Although single-host shows do exist, it’s more likely you’ll want a co-host for your show. A concept for a show is important, but developing and collaborating with your co-host(s) is the most important part of starting a show.
Make sure the hosts of the show match with your ability to record. If you’re only set up to record in the same room, having a host who lives in a different location or is unable to regularly wont work.
What’s your concept?
Once you’ve chosen your hosts, nail down a concept for your show. Most new creators are inspired by a show or shows that already exist. There is nothing wrong with this, as long as you’re not directly lifting another creator’s show. Be inspired by others without plagiarizing their work.
Choosing a concept should not be difficult. One common thing I hear from folks looking to get into podcasting is that they want an “original” idea. A unique concept is always a plus, but if you’re passion lies in an area that already has content, that’s no reason to stop from creating a show.
Choose your format.
Your show’s format is your opportunity to customize the listener’s experience. There may be other shows that will cover the same content, but how you present it is entirely up to you. Think of it like a TV show. A concept for an episode could be done multiple times by different shows. The shows format changes how the message is delivered.
Take the Civil War as an example. An episode of Doctor Who would have one format for addressing the topic, while an episode of South Park would be something completely different. Whatever your personal style is can shine in how you present your concept. If you’re unsure of what you’re style is, don’t worry. Figure out a format that feels comfortable and adjust during the life cycle of the show.
Set your schedule and stick to it.
Once you have your hosts, your concept, and your format, you have a show ready to be made. Now comes the real-life part of podcasting: scheduling. There are two dates you will need to commit to; recording day and release day.
There is always a little leeway in your recording day, but try to stick to a set day. The more regular your recording day, the easier you will fall into a groove. There is no leeway on your release day. The best advice I’ve ever received is echoed from some of the most successful folks in the industry: be consistent.
Consistency is the most important thing when hosting a podcast. When you release your show on time, you become dependable. You will find an audience simply because your show is present. Missing a release day forces your audience to seek out someone else’s content. This is the last thing you want. Your download number will take a significant hit for weeks to come.
Social Media & Online Presence
If you haven’t already, name your show. For some folks, this can be the most difficult step of preparation. Whether you started with a name or have no idea what you’re going to pick, now is the time to decide. You’ll need to be able to introduce your podcast when recording.
Once you have your name, you’ll want to acquire some form of logo to use as your album art. This is what displays wherever folks download your podcast. You can either design this yourself or hire a freelancer with any number of work sites like Upwork or Fiverr.
You’ll also want to secure a username on as many social media sites as possible. Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter are absolute musts. Listeners want to connect with their shows as much as possible. A username does not have to match your show name directly, so don’t stress about it.
Lastly, if you have it in your budget I highly recommend securing a domain name and forming a website for your podcast. Maybe services offer prices as low as $10 to purchase a domain. My preference is Bluehost, as they offer great bundles for hosting your website that also gives you the ability to set up email addresses. They use the site’s name in the email address as well. An email like “podcastname@gmail.com” doesn’t carry the same level of professionalism as “podcastname@yourwebsite.com.”
If you can’t afford a domain and hosting fees, don’t sweat it. Nearly all hosting services generate a basic website for your show to live. You may not have as many options through an auto-generated site, but it works. Your site just winds up with a URL like “podcastname.hostingsitename.com.”