How to Start Your Own Podcast

Starting your own podcast is a great way to promote your brand and grow your customer base. In this post we teach you how to create your own podcast.

9 mar 2020 • Lectura de 19 minutos

Actualizado el 28 ene 2021 por Kym D.

Kym D.

@whiteshepherd

Passionate writer, journalist and editor

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Everything you need to do to start a podcast

Podcasts are booming in popularity,

32 percent of Americans listen to podcasts at least once a month

. But it's just Americans listening tuning in, podcasts are growing rapidly in popularity in South America, South Korea, Mexico and in the UK where 6.5 million people listen to them weekly.

Since this platform only keeps growing, now is a great time to start promoting your business by podcasting.

In this post we'll teach you how to create your very own podcast.

Why a podcast?

Podcasts are unique because people can listen to them at any time. While working, driving, exercising and even doing chores around the house. Because they're purely audio, there are less distractions and listeners are captivated by the content. As a result, there's a higher expectation for more complex, thought provoking content.

As quickly as the podcast market is growing, there are still many unexplored areas just waiting for you to fill them with your unique point of view. Remember, where blogs were when they first started to evolve more than 15 years ago compared to today. Podcasting is a new form of blogging but the difference is you record the content,

Follow these guidelines to create your very own podcast

Determine the purpose of your podcast

The primary purpose of your podcast will set the framework for its entire creation. Here are some example objectives to help you identify your purpose:

Why do you want to start a podcast?

To promote yourself as an industry leader.

To create leads for your business.

To share knowledge or a message.

To simply have fun.

Whatever the reason, focus on providing value. If your visitors aren't walking away with new and helpful insights after listening to each episode, they have no reason to continue to listen.

To create a foundational definition of your podcast, identify why the existence of your podcast will be beneficial to your audience. The best way to do this is with a solid value proposition.

Who is your target audience?

Identifying your target audience will help you create content that is specifically tailored for their unique enjoyment, it will also help you laser target your marketing efforts.

Correct market research

involves identifying the locations and interests of your target audience and then collating this data into an ideal listener persona. This helps you focus on creating content that engages your listeners. You need to give people a reason to listen.

Create a value proposition

A value proposition will help you identify the unique benefits you will provide your listeners.

Consider the following:

What sort of people make up your ideal audience? Who will benefit from what you have to say?

What is unique about what you have to say? Why should people listen to you and not to someone else who makes podcasts on the same topic?

Your value proposition is specifically what you have to offer your ideal listeners.

Here is an example of poor value proposition example for a dog training podcast:

"On the ultimate dog training podcast, Xavier’s tips on dog training will teach

you how to stop your dog from pulling on the leash."

Would this reason compel you to listen to this podcast? Probably not.

Perhaps you would you be more likely to listen if the value proposition was changed to the following:

On the ultimate dog training podcast, Xavier, a world renowned dog trainer and

dogsport competitor, shares his insight into the problems behind why dogs pull on their

leash when you walk them. Each episode will equip you to confidently train your dog to finally walk calmly by your side.

Can you see the difference? The latter example identifies the uniqueness of the podcast (it is presented by a decorated dog trainer), gives the audience a reason why they should listen and clearly presents the benefit of listening.

Steps to create your own value proposition

To create your own value proposition. Follow the steps:

Specify at least one issue your ideal audience can strongly relate to.

Identify how you can solve these problems.

Identify why you are unique and why people should listen to your solution.

Provide actionable steps to solve these problems.

For simplicity you should structure your value proposition around the most primary issue you are solving.

Choosing a podcast name

Your podcast name needs to be memorable and grasp listener attention. It also needs to rank for its relevant keywords (something most people fail to consider). Follow these three objectives when thinking of a podcast name::

Make it relatable

Be careful not to make it so clever your target audience can't relate to it. You need to strike a healthy balance between being witty, memorable and something your target audience will identify as a solution to their problems.

Here is a good example:

The Xavier Experience: Uncommon Dog Training Tips.

The tite "Ultimate Dog Training Tips" While this is good, it is really not all that memorable. If you are going to use a descriptive title, keep it short.

Include your name.

Including your name in the title is a great way to build your

personal branding

. If you already have a large following, it will help your followers easily identify your content.

It is always a good idea to add a tagline to identify the primary objective of your podcast. Simply calling it "The Xavier Experience" is quite vague and doesn't really give people a reason to listen.

Use keywords in the title

It is important to use keywords in your title to help people find your podcasts, it will also help you show up in search results when users type a related phrase, for example, "how to train my dog"

Select a podcast format

The type of podcast format you select depends on whether you will be presenting it solo or alongside other people. Sticking to the one format maintains consistency which helps your listeners mould to your podcasting style.

If you are too erratic and unpredictable, listeners will abandon your show for something more stable.

Pick a format you are most comfortable with. Here is a list of the most common podcasting formats:

Solo podcasts

This is the simplest format where you are presenting the podcast alone. This is a good way to build your reputation as an expert in your industry or any other topic.

Also you completely own the podcast so you do not have to answer to anyone. You are the one who looks for sponsorship to monetize it and all profits belong to you.

When you are a podcast beginner, the solo show can be intimidating. If you solely focus on providing incredible value to your audience, the process should become much easier for you.

Co-hosted podcasts

Co-hosting a podcast with a friend or industry colleague can be easier when you first start out. It gives you the support of another person to fill any silence gaps. Chatting to a co-host also makes your presentation sound more relaxed and conversational rather than like a lecture.

If you choose a co-hosted format, It is important for you to choose a co-host you have a natural connection with. Settle for somebody you can literally talk about anything with, this will ensure your show stays upbeat and dynamic.

You also need to consider the ownership split of a co-hosted format, will it be a 50/50 split? What will happen if your co-host loses interest or is not available at times?

You need to have confident (and profitable) answers to these questions before entering a podcast partnership.

Podcast interviews

Podcast interviews with industry experts gives you the opportunity to talk with people you look up to. Your guests may also have an impressive following they can promote your show to, which can accelerate your podcast growth.

Interviewing people can be challenging. It is a skill that takes practice. This format is best for natural conversationalists.

Another challenge is approaching the right people to interview on your show and then relying on them to be available during the scheduled recordings.

Other uncommon podcast formats

Documentary.

In a documentary you walk your listeners through conversations and present on location interviews to share interesting information.

Docu drama.

Docu dramas are a mix of documentary and drama that offers listeners a highly entertaining learning experience

Roundtable

A roundtable podcast consists of multiple hosts discussing different topics. The wider hosting panel offers a greater diversity of opinions which makes the show much more engaging.

Using a script for your podcast

Unless you are going to improvise in your podcast, you will need to write a script, or at least write an outline for what you are going to cover in each podcast episode. While you may think using a script will make the show sound too formal, it helps you stay on track if you have no presenting experience.

Why good podcasts use scripts

Using a script does not mean you have to read it word for word. Podcast scripts range from comprehensive to simple bullet points.

A script is a skeleton you can customize as you go along and helps to create the mood and feel of each show. It helps the show flow, makes it sound natural and prevents you from rambling or forgetting what you planned to say.

Before you decide if you need a script or not, ask yourself the following:

Do you process your thoughts externally or internally?

If you process your thoughts internally you may want to write them down before talking. People who process their thoughts eternally naturally vocalise them, which makes great podcasting material.

What type of script suits your show?

If you're great at improvising on the fly, a simplistic outline style of script will work for you. This is an ideal script format because the most capable podcasting hosts are always comfortable with improvisation. If you're just starting out and you're nervous about presenting, a word for word script will help quell your fears.

If you're not a skilled writer, you'll have trouble writing a compelling script people will actually want to listen to. But that shouldn't stop you, simply

hire a skilled freelance writer

to create your script for you. If you use freelancers to strengthen all your weaknesses, your podcast will have the greatest chances of success.

Podcasting script formats

Bullet point scripts

Bullet point scripts are the most common used by podcast hosts. These are great if you like to banter with a co-host or guests like on radio shows. They are simple and quick to write and provide enough structure to keep a podcast episode going while always giving you the option of deviating course.

These types of scripts work best for co-hosted podcasts or where you conduct interviews or have guests.

Advantages include:

Takes little preparation.

Makes editing easier once recorded.

While it provides some structure, you can still improvise and ad-lib throughout the show.

Disadvantages include:

You can get sidetracked.

It leaves room for rambling.

Without enough structure you can forget important points.

Detailed podcast scripts

A detailed podcast script has more detail than bullet points but is not as detailed as a full script. Detailed scripts usually have an introduction, sponsor’s ads, music and closing remarks or a call to action at the end. Detailed scripts are suitable for most podcasts with a co-host or interviews.

Advantages include:

It is still casual but provides structure and flow to your podcast.

Ensures you cover the subject thoroughly while leaving some room for improvisation.

Adds supporting data and points.

Disadvantages include:

Takes more time to prepare.

Requiresmore editing when recorded.

Full podcast scripts

There are times when a podcast benefits from a full script and are necessary for solo podcasts, audio dramas and short shows that offer advice or are educational.

Advantages include:

Adds complete structure.

Adds professionalism.

Helps a podcast host feel confident they are thoroughly covering all elements of the subject.

Disadvantages include:

The host needs to practice reading the script so it sounds natural.

Producing a podcast takes longer.

It can be more difficult to record as mistakes can be obvious.

Choosing a podcast platform

You will need to choose a podcast platform to host your podcasts. This simplifies the storage and publishing of your podcasts. You will need to use a podcasting platform to publish your podcast to all streaming services.

What are the benefits of a podcast platform?

Your listeners can listen to your podcasts from a podcast platform. They will allow you to create an RSS feed for listeners to find your podcast in different directories. You can also access an analytics dashboard to track the performance of your podcasts (number of downloads, average listening times etc).

Some platforms also come with website builders so you can create a blog, website and add widgets to help promote your podcast straight from the platform.

Selecting the right platform

It is important to select the right podcast hosting platform to suit your purpose. For example, if you only want to have fun with friends and family or share short interviews, a free platform may be all you need.

But, if you are going to take podcasting seriously and want to monetize them, then you will need a platform with the storage and bandwidth you need. Also, how much you are willing to pay monthly determines the features the platform offers. Just keep in mind there is no point paying for features you won't be using.

Here a breakdown of some of the most popular podcasting hosts

Buzzsprout

offers a free option and subscription options start from $12 a month.

Buzzsprout is an extremely popular podcast platform with more than 100,000 people using it to launch their podcasts. It has an episode automation feature that lets you upload audio files and adds ID3 tags and bitrates to promote your podcast. Listeners can access your podcast from Overcast, Google Podcasts, iTunes, Spotify and Alexa. Buzzsprout gives you access to advanced statistics for all your podcasts.

Advantages include:

Options for monetizing your podcasts through affiliate marketing.

Offering unlimited storage space.

A trial period of 90 days.

Gives you access to the most popular podcast directories

Disadvantages include:

Buzzsprout’s free version advertises your podcasts on public websites.

The bandwidth is limited to only 250 GB.

Podbean

has a free option and monthly subscriptions start at $9.

Podbean offers a fully featured website builder you can use with your own domain name and branding. It has a good range of podcast templates and you can choose your own layout. Podbean also has monetization options using crowdfunding, premium content or advertising. Podbean’s free version only offers limited storage and video support is only available through paid subscriptions.

Advantages include:

iTunes and RSS support.

The ability to create your own podcast website.

Compatible with embeddable media players, and Android and iPhone apps.

Disadvantages include:

You can only run more than one podcast channel with a subscription.

You need a monthly subscription for unlimited bandwidth and storage.

Blubrry

subscriptions start at $12 a month.

Bubrry makes it simple to upload and publish podcasts in three steps. It gives you control over an RSS feed on iTunes and you can optimize it for Android devices. If you want to use analytics tools, you have to purchase the Podcast Statistics package.

Advantages include:

WordPress plugins available.

Makes publishing effortless.

Unlimited bandwidth.

Easy, free media migration.

Disadvantages include:

Paying extra for access to analytics tools.

The amount of storage depends on your subscription plan.

Podiant

subscriptions start at $12.99 a month.

Podiant users publish 22,000 podcasts a day and reach hundreds of thousands of people around the world. The platform offers a range of podcast themes and you can access all the tools you need to publish your podcasts. Podiant allows you to create a blog, and embed content from YouTube, Twitter and Instagram to help you widen your audience reach.

Advantages include:

Users can host their podcasts from one website.

Does not place limitations on storage or bandwidth.

Compatibility with all main podcast apps and directories.

Disadvantages include:

The free trial is only for 14 days,

The type of analytic tools you receive depends on the subscription.

Castos

subscription options start at $19 a month.

Castos offers unlimited storage and bandwidth. You can create as many podcasts as you want. When you upload them, Castos automatically shares them to most of the main directories. An added advantage is you can transcribe your podcast but it costs a small fee per minute.

Advantages include:

Supports video and audio podcasts.

Access to all the main podcast directories.

Customizable podcast player.

Access to advanced analytics tools.

Disadvantages include:

The ability to republish video to YouTube is only available using a subscription.

Short free trial.

Equipment and software for recording podcasts

It is easy to record a podcast. When you start out, it is as simple as plugging in headphones into your Android or iPhone. The content you record is the most important part.

People will still listen to your podcast even if the sound is not the best as long as it has amazing content. But you may want to start out with at least:

A microphone

You do need a microphone for everyone speaking on your show. The inbuilt microphone in your laptop or computer is not good enough. It will cut out and sound like you are talking under water. It is also a good idea to get a foam pop guard for each microphone. It stops words starting with b and p from sounding harsh.

Headphones

Headphones are also important when recording a podcast as it helps you hear when you are talking too loudly or when talking off mic. This will help you adjust your mic technique. They do not need to be expensive and you should have a set for all people involved in recording a podcast.

Podcast recording software

There is a lot of software available for recording a podcast. So, how do you choose the best one for you? To start, choose one that suits your style and format.

Let’s take a look at a few.

Recording solo podcast software

Recording on your computer

One option is downloading and installing an audio program for your computer. An option for beginners is

Audacity

and it is free.

On the other end of the spectrum is

Adobe Audition

for the more experienced. It has a monthly fee but the quality is much better and you can also use it to edit your podcasts.

Solo recording on the web

Computer recording is good if you always record from the same place. But if you are mobile you may want more flexibility. Using web-based software such as

Alitu

offers flexibility and lets you record outros, intros, quick updates and ad slots.

Recording calls for a podcasts

There are times when you will want to record phone calls, especially when doing interview podcasts.

Zoom

is good software that allows you to record web-based calls. Other alternatives include <