Step-by-Step Guide to Starting a Podcast
As a business owner, you should always keep up with the changes in technology. One of the trends that are fast catching up is the use of podcasts. There are approximately 90 million people who listen to podcasts every month.
You should start a podcast to reach the growing audience and expand your business. Making a podcast doesn't need a lot of money and you don't have to be a technical genius to get started with it. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make a podcast.
Step 1: Planning your podcast
The first thing you have to do is plan the foundational pieces of your podcast. You'll need to choose a topic, name, and format for your podcast. You should also create a theme and a domain name for your podcast.
Choosing a topic
The podcast topic defines the tone, flow, and structure of your podcast. When choosing a topic, consider the following:
How much do you care about the topic?
Your unique point of view
How the topic will bring revenue in the future
Choose a format
There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to the format. Here are the common formats you can choose from:
Monologue podcast: It's where one host talks about their experience and expertise
Interview podcasts: They feature one host who interviews individuals within a given industry.
Scripted non-fiction: They are podcasts with a single theme for the entire season.
News recap: It summarizes news within a specific industry.
Educational podcasts: They are podcasts that focus on teaching the audience.
Scripted fiction: They are similar to radio dramas but are highly produced and scripted
Choose a name
There is a lot of freedom when it comes to choosing a podcast name. You should, however, make sure the name you choose conveys who you are and what the show is about. Here are tips to keep in mind when choosing a name.
Keep it short and include keywords.
Make sure it's easy to pronounce
Step 2: Setting up your podcast
You'll need equipment to make your podcast. You don't have to spend a fortune on podcast equipment. Invest in a pop filter, solid microphone, and headphones to create a good podcast.
When choosing a place to record your podcast, make sure it's away from any noise. Set up the equipment to capture at least 30 seconds of silence. Listen to the clips to identify times when quality is distorted. Test both your microphone and audio software to ensure they are working properly.
Step 3: Recording your first podcast episode
Now that you have figured out the foundational elements, you can start recording your podcast. Here's how to record your first episode:
Write a podcast script
A script is crucial when you are starting a podcast. When you have detailed notes, you'll be able to focus on removing filler words, recording mechanics, and controlling your voice. You can organize your podcast script into bullet points. Practice the script before you hit the mic. Here is the outline you should follow when writing a script for your podcast.
Intro monologue: It should be about who you are and what you are going to talk about. This section should be 30 - 60 seconds.
Intro music jingle: Repeat the jingle for each show to enable listeners to identify with it. It lasts for 30 seconds.
Topic 1: It should be about three minutes
Topic 2: Three minutes
Interlude: This is a break. You can play some music. The interlude lasts 30 seconds.
Topic 3: It should also be three minutes.
Topic 4: Three minutes
Closing remarks: Thank your audience for listening and talk a little bit about your next show. The session takes two minutes.
Repeat music jingle: 30 seconds.
Record your podcast
Plugin a USB microphone and open the audio recording software to record your podcast. Make sure your microphone is plugged in and is the default input device. Click the record button and start to talk. There is no start or stop, so you can edit your recording later. Once you are done recording, make sure you save the podcast.
Step 4: Editing your podcast episode
Editing is the most difficult part of making a podcast. When editing, make sure your podcast sounds professional. You can add an outro and intro to the podcast. Once you choose an editing software, go to the settings and eliminate background noises. You should also make sure you normalize the volume in each episode. If you find it time-consuming to edit your podcast, you can hire someone to do it.
Step 5: Launching and growing your podcast
When you launch your podcast, you can be featured in a section on Apple podcasts. Appearing on the Apple podcast will grow your podcast within a short time. Generate buzz about your podcast to promote it. You can also create a landing page to let people know what you have in store for them. It's critical to build a small audience during the pre-launch. Make sure you are consistent in growing your podcast. Release new episodes at the same time and day.
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