So, what are the 10 steps to start podcasting? Start reading my friend!
So, you are thinking about getting started with an awesome podcast, have guests and even some scripts (or at least great ideas). You can Google all over the place to see where to get started – it’s overwhelming. I did it too – at least I have lots of experience with audio equipment thanks to my natural interest, being a musician and a professional broadcaster since 1988. I’m here to help guide you – be a mentor possibly.
Here are the 10 steps to start podcasting. I am going to give you suggestions based on my experiences, mistakes, research, and advice received. No – I am not a definitive authority, but I know more than many on the innerwebs. My philosophy is to start with good foundational gear that will grow with you and save money in the long run.
The following 10 steps are an overview – there are 10 documents that match each point that goes into detail on what to buy, what not to buy, and how to obtain a setup that will work well for your level of experience. The worst thing is to buy something that seems to be everything in a package for an unbelievable price online. Once you get started, you realize that this piece of crap was a waste of 80 bucks. Yes, I have done this – and I knew better!
Let’s get the ball rolling.
Step 1: pick a topic
Well, you are here, so my guess is you already have a topic. Businesses who realize the value of a podcast will have a wealth of information to start with – from products and services to the business itself. Once you figure this out, do a little research to see who else came up with the same great idea.
You may find a few that are similar – that’s great! You can learn from them, share links, or even collaborate. If you find a ton of podcasts about your topic, you’ll want to spend some time thinking about how your podcast will be different from the rest. Like your business, you need to focus on what you can offer that sets your podcast apart.
If you are thinking about a personal podcast, just like the business folks above, have a look to see who else is taking about your topic. You can learn from them, listen to how they assemble and deliver their podcast. Some people produce shows simply to make them, while others actively engage in growing and monetizing their works.
GO AND CREATE! Details are in “Step 1-Pick a Topic”
Step 2: pick a format
Now that you are getting ready to start making your brand of magic, how will you present it? It’s time to choose a format for your show so you can start podcasting.
- How long and how frequently will you release episodes?
- Will the host of the show interview guests that are experts on the topic?
- Is the host the expert who provides all the content?
- How many hosts will there be?
- Will your show be a video or audio podcast?
When you build your podcast, identify your audience first. Who is listening, and why? If you are producing a business advice podcast, your audience is too busy for an hour of listening. Many podcasts in this segment are 5-10 minutes – the audience appreciates short and to the point. However, if your target audience is into fitness, you’ll probably want to make your episodes a little longer – they will probably listen during their workout.
Pro Tips Tricks and Pointers are in “Step 2-Pick a Format”
Step 3: The Gear
Getting started is not that expensive or difficult. All you need is a good quality microphone, something to record on that you probably already own (I am smart because I know that you can’t read this without one. Genius!) a cell phone, tablet, computer, or other equipment.
Look at “The Gear” for details of what works best for the four stages that I arbitrarily created. Maybe not so arbitrary:
- Getting Started
- The Next Level
- Almost Pro
- My Own Big-League Studio
Pro Tips Tricks and Pointers are in “Step 3-The Gear”
Step 4: set up hosting
Now we have created audio magic, podcasts need a home on a server where the media files will live. You can host a podcast on your website (depending on your site host services), but that’s not recommended because of all the technical challenges, especially when you gain listeners and a lot of streams/downloads. Things will get super slow, maybe crash, or at least require periodic updates, maintenance and so on. There are tons of dedicated podcast hosts that offer loads of resources in addition to hosting. Generally, they will take you step-by step through the submission process for may directories, offer advertising revenue potential, marketing advice and more. It doesn’t cost much per month to start podcasting, and you will have plenty of storage space and bandwidth for your creation, plus the ability to scale up as you build your audience.
Read “Step 4-Set Up Hosting” for reviews, next steps, and tips.
Step 5: pick a title
Duh … obvious. Experts agree that a title that is inline with your podcast theme, and get’s your audience’s attention. That’s why we want to know who our target audience is before we get started. We will be speaking to that person when we turn on the mic. It makes the steps later easier when you can define who is listening and what they want to hear – and not hear. Like a business marketing plan!
There is a big benefit if you can work some keywords into your podcast title. Search engine algorithms love when keywords appear organically in many locations.
More ideas, examples, links and more in “Step 5-Pick a Title”
Step 6: artwork
“Don’t Judge a Book My It’s Cover.” OK Mom, but we all know that the graphic is the first thing a prospective listener will see during their search. Many sites offer inexpensive, professional designers that will produce graphics that meet site specifications – especially iTunes. Make a good first impression!!
See examples, links and more advice in “Step 6-Artwork”
Step 7: intros and outros
Audiences love continuity and consistency! TV shows, movies and yes, successful podcasts have an introduction to the show. It’s well, and introduction – what it’s about and why people should listen. You can record this yourself or hire a professional voice artist – ahem – from a variety of sites. You’ll also want an “outro” to give credits, with a call-to-action for your listeners—such as, telling them how to get a hold of you, where they download additional content, tease coming episodes, and more.
Save the intro and outro as templates in your editing software, it makes it easy to drop the audio file for each episode into the template. This makes the editing process efficient and consistent so you can start podcasting.
Pro tips, tricks, hints, resources, and examples are in “Step 7-Intro-Outro”
Step 8: plan the launch
The end goal is to launch your podcast – steps 1-7 so far are working toward this step. There are so many great resources from blog posts to books by experts such as John Lee Dumas. While I am not passing the buck – I am deferring to those with way more experience and knowledge. If you just want to post it for your friends or select associates, that’s great as well. Just create!
However, if you want to do things “the right way”, doing your research, homework and listening to those who came before – iTunes has something called a “new and noteworthy” section where newly launched podcasts are featured. Only podcasts less than eight weeks old are eligible to appear in this section, which is the first section people see when they open iTunes. When you launch your podcast the right way, your exposure will be much better by possible being featured at the top of the “new and noteworthy” charts in your category.
Ideas, links, references and more in “Step 8-Plan the Launch”
Step 9: getting reviews and subscribers
It’s all about the numbers, my friend. Once your show is uploaded and available, you’ll want some five-star reviews so people find your podcast will be more likely to download an episode. Getting reviews on iTunes isn’t, because it’s more difficult compared to leaving a review on Amazon, Facebook, or Google. Podcast reviews are somewhat cumbersome. Start by asking friends, family, and associates to help by listening to your podcast and give an honest review. It get’s that ball rolling.
Steps, examples, links and more – “Step 9-Getting Reviews and Subscribers”
Step 10: marketing
Marketing is marketing, this time the product is your podcast. You will have to promote it. Listeners will not just find you – sure they are searching, but at last count there were more than 2000 podcasts on the internet. It’s a little late, and I am a little punchy here.
Our podcasts are like a needle in a haystack. The more marketing you do, the better the results. Spend as little or as much time and money marketing your podcast as you see fit, everyone’s needs are different. Marketing 101 – the more you put into it, the more you’ll get out of it.
Starting a podcast has a learning curve for everyone. You are not alone. It is fun, rewarding, very profitable for businesses, and a simple process when you have templates and a process. Let’s CREATE and start podcasting!
Guerilla marketing tactics, pro tips, community, coaching and more in “Step 10-Marketing”
