The potential of podcasting is getting bigger and bigger. International Advertisers Bureau reported that in 2018, the podcast industry has generated an estimated $479 million in advertising revenue. It is expected to reach a billion in 2021. In addition to people who are passionate about podcasting, more and more businesses are investing in the industry because of the benefit it brings to overall revenue and brand marketing.
So before everything gets crowded, it's best that you start building your following now. Yes, as in now! All you need is the commitment to make things happen and a budget. And speaking of budget, worry not because there is a way on how to start a podcast without breaking the bank.
Step 1: Decide on your niche
It's hard to be a jack of all trade, master of none. The same thing goes to podcasting. To resonate better with your target audience, you must decide on what topic you want to focus on.
How do I find my niche?
You can start by asking yourself, is there anything I am knowledgeable or passionate about that I want to share? For example, you're knowledgeable about study tips.
Narrow it down
Podcasting about study tips is still broad. Study tips about what? Maybe you can narrow it down to study tips for law students. Or narrow it further to study tips for working law students.
Step 2: Think about your branding
Now that you have identified your niche, it's time to think about how you want to be perceived by your audience.
Choosing a podcast name
In choosing a podcast name, make sure that it’s short and relevant. It must be something that will give an idea to your potential listeners what your content is about.
Branding and Visuals
Given the profile of the chosen niche, create a logo and/or a slogan. Something that you will be known for. Make sure that you are consistent with the color, shape, image, graphics, typography, etc. Above all, ensure that you are not using copyrighted material. Best if you can find someone that can create it for you. A talented friend might do the work for a cup of coffee. Or hire someone from Fiverr that will do the job for a minimal fee. Just be sure to check the work's originality before using it to keep you away from trouble.
Step 3: Set-up the equipment
Find a podcast studio
At this point, you don't need a professional studio for this. Just find a free room/area in the house where you can set up your recording equipment. Your room will do fine. Just ensure that there is minimal to no unwanted noise. You can put thick draperies, pieces of furniture, and foam panels to drown the noise.
Equipment for recording
Laptop. Most likely you own one so nothing to worry about.
Microphone. Samson C01U is a fair entry-level microphone. So is Rode Podcaster. The only thing I would like to remind you that microphones are a deal-breaker so invest in a decent and quality one.
Headphone. Basic headphones will do the trick.
Recording software. The most popular free software are GarageBand and Audacity.
Audio interface. This allows you to listen to your input without delay. Behringer’s U-PHORIA UMC22 is a solid and well-equipped box that you can pick up for less than £/$40.
Accessories. Mic arm, shock mount, pop filter. Some microphones are sold with a mic arm and shock mount
Step 4: Start recording
When you start recording, that means that you had thought through about your content, your format, and the frequency of how you are posting a podcast.
Plan your episodes
What will the first topic be about? How long it's going to be? Will you need intro music, background music, or other sounds you may want to add for the effect you are aiming for? If yes, then check out license-free music and soundtracks that you can use at Free Music Archive, YouTube Audio Library, and Free Stock Music. Just be sure to review the licensing terms before using any in your podcast, okay?
For beginners, it would be great that you do storyboard and scripting to sound professional. Sounding prepared makes your audience feel like the time they spend listening to you is worth it.
Formats of a podcast
Your podcast format could be a solo show (good for starters), interview series, or co-hosted are where two or more people working on the show together. It can be fiction or non-fiction (just be transparent to your listeners about it. Podcasts can also be an educational series.
Step 5: Promote
There is no point in recording something without publishing it. Launch your first episode on iTunes, Spotify, Google Podcast, Stitcher, and TuneIn.
There is no short-cut in making successes at whatever aspect in life. If you have the will to make it happen, it will happen. Taking on the baby steps coupled with commitment will get you there. Would be excited to hear soon how your first podcast episode fared!
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