Want to know how to start a podcast but don’t know where to start? We’ve got you covered with our step-by-step guide to creating your own podcast.
We’ll cover everything from thinking up a concept for your podcast to how to build an audience and all the gear you will need.
What is a podcast and why should I start one?
A podcast is a series of digital audio episodes, often centred around a specific theme or topic, that listeners can stream or download to enjoy at their convenience. They range from solo commentaries to group discussions and can be purely audio or include video elements.
For listeners, podcasts are easily accessible and are a great way of learning new things about a vast array of subjects. Plus, they’re often quite conversational and have a sense of intimacy and personal connection that radio and other forms of content might not have.
For creators, podcasts are a great way of sharing passions, insights, and stories with a broad audience. They can build a dedicated community of listeners and often have direct interactions with them. Better still, if you’re a musician or have something you want to promote, podcasts are a great way of doing so. They can show behind-the-scenes content and strengthen personal branding.
How to start a podcast in 8 easy steps
Starting a podcast is a fantastic way to share your opinions/passions and connect with a wider audience. Podcasts can be about anything, from sharing stories and tips about your life to educational podcasts that teach you along the way. Here’s a straightforward guide to get you up and running:
Define your concept
Choose a theme that excites you. A clear focus will attract listeners who share your passion.
Select a format
Decide on a style: solo commentary, interviews, or perhaps a co-hosted discussion. Pick a format that suits your content and feels sustainable.
Plan your episodes
Sketch out topics for your first few episodes. Having a content plan helps maintain consistency and keeps your audience engaged.
Set up recording equipment
Invest in a high-quality microphone and headphones. Recording in a quiet space enhances audio clarity.
Choose recording and editing software
Utilise user-friendly software to record and edit your episodes. This ensures your podcast sounds polished and professional.
Create artwork and branding
Design eye-catching cover art and develop a consistent brand identity. This makes your podcast easily recognisable across platforms.
Host and distribute your podcast
Select a reliable podcast hosting service to upload your episodes. Ensure your podcast is available on major directories like Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
Promote your podcast
Share your episodes on social media and engage with your listeners.
How to start a podcast – the complete guide
1. Define your concept
The concept of your podcast is its foundation – it’s what makes your show unique and draws listeners in. Start by identifying the core idea or theme of your podcast.
If you’re a musician, this could range from sharing insights about the creative process, discussing niche genres, interviewing industry experts, or exploring personal stories related to your musical journey.
The goal is to find a topic you’re passionate about and that aligns with your expertise or interests. This passion will translate into enthusiasm and authenticity, which is crucial for engaging your audience.
Once you have a broad idea, focus on narrowing it down. Remember, you can’t please everyone! You might be tempted to keep your topic quite general, but actually, having a well-defined niche helps attract a dedicated and loyal listener base.
For instance, instead of a general podcast about music, consider something specific, maybe about indie music or jazz history. A niche topic sets your podcast apart from the crowd and gives you a clearer target audience.
Knowing your audience is the next step. Are you targeting other musicians, industry professionals, or casual music enthusiasts?
It’s important to know your listeners’ preferences, challenges, and interests so you can tailor your content to meet their needs. Think about the kind of value your podcast offers them, whether it’s entertainment, education, or inspiration.
A “mission statement” can help clarify your concept. Write a one- or two-sentence summary of what your podcast is about and what it aims to achieve. You can then refer back to this in future if you’re ever struggling with content direction. For example, your mission statement could be, “My podcast shares insider tips and inspiring stories from independent artists to help musicians navigate their careers.”
Once you’ve got all that down, you should focus on practical details like the length and frequency of your episodes.
Will your podcast consist of short, 15-minute tips or hour-long interviews? How often will you publish episodes? Consistency is critical, so choose a schedule you can realistically maintain.
Planning your concept carefully ensures that you start on solid ground and stay true to your goals as your podcast grows.
2. Select a format
The format of your podcast serves as its structural backbone and influences the tone, delivery, and engagement style of your content. It’s important to strike a balance between your interests and strengths and the kind of format that resonates with your target audience.
Solo podcasts are an excellent option if you’re confident speaking directly to your audience. This format can be quite personal, giving you the space to share thoughts, experiences, and in-depth knowledge.
For example, as a musician, you could discuss your creative process, dissect popular tracks, or offer advice on industry trends. Solo podcasts are often simpler to produce since you only need to focus on your script and recording setup.
However, maintaining energy and keeping listeners engaged for an entire episode can be challenging. You’ll need strong storytelling skills and the ability to convey enthusiasm consistently.
Interview podcasts are a dynamic way to bring fresh perspectives and voices into your show. This format involves hosting guests such as fellow musicians, industry experts, or even fans. The variety of perspectives can make your content more diverse and appealing to a wider audience.
Additionally, interviews are a fantastic networking tool, helping you build connections within your niche. However, this format requires more coordination – you’ll need to research your guests, prepare thoughtful questions, and manage scheduling conflicts.
Post-production can also be more complex, as you may need to edit multiple audio tracks to ensure clarity and balance.
Co-hosted podcasts introduce a collaborative element, offering a conversational style that feels natural and engaging. If you have a friend or colleague who shares your passion for music, this format could be a great fit.
The dynamic between co-hosts can keep the energy flowing and bring humour or relatability to the show. That said, it’s crucial to establish clear roles and responsibilities. Regular co-hosts should also have compatible schedules to ensure consistent production.
Other creative options include panel discussions, where multiple voices weigh in on a single topic, or narrative storytelling, which combines scripted content, sound effects, and music to tell a cohesive story. These formats are more complex to produce but can captivate listeners with immersive experiences.
3. Plan your episodes
Planning is the cornerstone of a successful podcast. Before recording your first episode, you’ll need a clear roadmap for your content. This involves brainstorming topics, structuring your episodes, and scheduling your releases to maintain consistency and keep your audience engaged.
So, you have your concept, now you need to look at different themes you could cover. For musicians, this could include behind-the-scenes looks at songwriting, exploring niche genres, or discussing industry news.
Once you have a list of potential topics, prioritise the ones that are both relevant and compelling. A strong first few episodes are crucial for setting the tone and attracting an initial audience.
After selecting your topics, outline each episode. This doesn’t mean scripting every word (unless that’s your style), but having a structure ensures your content flows logically and remains engaging.
A typical outline might include an introduction to set the context, main talking points with supporting examples or anecdotes, and a conclusion that ties everything together. If you’re featuring guests, prepare questions in advance, but leave room for organic conversation to keep the discussion lively.
Think about pacing, too. Your listeners should feel guided through the episode without it dragging or feeling rushed. For example, if you’re discussing a complex topic like music copyright laws, break it down into manageable sections with clear transitions.
Using storytelling techniques can also make your episodes more engaging. Share personal experiences or case studies that illustrate your points and connect with your audience emotionally. We recommend using a content calendar – that way, you can organise ideas, set deadlines for recording and editing, and schedule episode releases.
Aim for consistency in your publishing schedule, whether it’s weekly, biweekly, or monthly; so your audience knows when to expect new content.
You should also plan for listener interaction. Leave room in your episodes for answering questions, responding to comments, or incorporating audience suggestions. This fosters a sense of community and gives you a better idea of your listeners’ interests.
4. Choosing and setting up your recording equipment
The quality of your podcast’s audio significantly influences the listener experience. Poor sound can be distracting, causing people to tune out no matter how compelling your content is. Setting up the right recording equipment is a must, and thankfully, it doesn’t have to break the bank to get started.
At the core of your setup is a microphone. While your laptop’s built-in microphone might seem convenient, it’s not ideal for podcasting due to poor sound quality.
Instead, invest in a USB microphone, such as the Shure MVX7 or the Presonus Revelator Dynamic USB, both of which offer excellent audio clarity at an affordable price.
USB microphones are beginner-friendly, as they plug directly into your computer without needing additional hardware.
If you’re planning to expand your setup later, consider an XLR microphone and an audio interface for more advanced control over your sound. Since you’re just starting out, a more affordable option would be the SubZero SZC-300 or the Rode Podmic, which are perfect for beginners.
Headphones are equally essential. They allow you to monitor your audio in real-time, catching issues like background noise, distortion, or inconsistent levels during recording.
Closed-back headphones, such as the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x, are a great choice because they prevent sound leakage into the microphone. Your recording environment also plays a significant role in achieving high-quality sound.
Choose a quiet space free from external noise like traffic or household activity. Soft furnishings such as rugs, curtains, or even cushions can help reduce echo by absorbing sound waves. For a more polished setup, consider affordable acoustic foam panels or a portable sound booth.
Don’t forget about pop filters and boom arms. A pop filter sits in front of your microphone to reduce harsh plosive sounds (like “P” and “B”), while a boom arm or desktop stand positions the microphone at an optimal height and distance for recording.
Once your equipment is set up, test it thoroughly before recording. Ensure your microphone is positioned correctly (about 6–12 inches from your mouth) and that levels are set appropriately to avoid clipping (distorted audio).
Always perform a test recording to check for any background noise, microphone placement issues, or technical glitches. If you’re looking to grab all your gear at once to start podcasting, you should consider looking at podcasting packages that offer a discounted price for all the gear you will need.
Podcast kits will include a microphone as well as audio gear such as an audio interface, headphones, studio mic boom arms and pop filters. You should also take into consideration your podcast type and choose how many mics, headphones etc. you will require.
Kits such as the Presonus Revelator Dynamic Podcasting Bundle (2 People) or the G4M Dynamic Broadcast Microphone with USB Streamer Pack are perfect for beginners and will give you professional results without breaking the bank.
If you want a more in-depth guide on picking out the perfect podcast setup for you check out our guide on the best podcast equipment.
5. Choose recording and editing software
After setting up your equipment, the next step is selecting the right software for recording and editing your podcast.
While many tools cater to podcast creators, the key is finding software that’s both easy to use and capable of producing high-quality audio. For beginners, free options like Audacity and GarageBand are fantastic starting points.
Audacity is a powerful, open-source software compatible with both Windows and Mac. It offers features like multi-track recording, noise reduction, and audio effects.
Although its interface may look outdated, Audacity is highly functional and widely used by podcasters worldwide. GarageBand, exclusive to Mac users, provides a clean and intuitive interface, making it ideal for creating polished episodes with minimal effort.
For more control over your audio, invest in paid software such as PreSonus Studio One Pro or Digital Brain Podcaster. Presonus Studio One is professional DAW (digital audio workstation) software that can be used to record and edit your podcasts directly within the software.
Digital Brain Podcaster, on the other hand, offers a seven-channel mixer designed specifically for podcasting with built-in effects and integrated tools for broadcasting.
Once you’ve chosen your software, the recording process begins. Ensure your microphone and headphones are properly connected and configured within the software. Adjust your input levels to avoid clipping and distortion; levels should peak between -6dB and -12dB for optimal clarity.
Always record in a quiet environment and save your files in high-quality formats like WAV or FLAC for editing. Editing is where your podcast takes shape. Use your software to trim unwanted pauses, cut filler words, and balance audio levels.
You can also enhance the sound with equalisation (EQ) and compression. EQ allows you to adjust frequencies for a more natural tone, while compression evens out volume fluctuations, ensuring consistent playback.
For final touches, add your intro and outro music, along with sound effects if applicable. These elements help create a professional and engaging experience for listeners. Export the final file as an MP3, optimised for podcast directories, and ensure all metadata – like episode title and description – is correctly entered.
By mastering your recording and editing software, you’ll be able to produce high-quality episodes efficiently, leaving your audience impressed and eager for more.
6. Create artwork and branding
Your podcast’s artwork and branding are the first things potential listeners will see, making them critical for grabbing attention and setting the tone for your show. Great branding not only helps your podcast stand out in a crowded market but also gives it a professional and cohesive identity.
Start with your cover art, as it’s the visual representation of your podcast. The design should be simple, eye-catching, and relevant to your theme. Keep in mind that podcast directories often display artwork as a small thumbnail, so avoid cluttered designs or hard-to-read text.
Use bold colours, clear fonts, and minimal elements. The recommended dimensions for podcast artwork are 3000 x 3000 pixels, and the file should be in JPEG or PNG format for compatibility with platforms like Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
If design isn’t your strength, tools like Canva offer user-friendly templates specifically for podcast artwork. Alternatively, hire a graphic designer for a polished, custom look.
Incorporate elements that reflect your podcast’s tone and subject matter – for example, a modern, minimalistic design for industry-focused content or playful, bold visuals for a casual and lighthearted show.
Beyond cover art, think about your podcast’s branding as a whole. This includes your title, tagline, and overall tone. Your title should be memorable and clearly communicate your podcast’s focus.
For instance, a musician’s podcast could be called “Melody Makers: Stories Behind the Notes.” Pair this with a catchy tagline that adds context, like “Unveiling the creative processes of today’s top artists.”
Audio branding is equally important. Create a custom intro and outro to book-end each episode. This might include a short piece of music, a sound effect, or a voiceover introducing the podcast.
Choose sounds that align with your theme; instrumental music works well for professional shows, while quirky effects suit more casual ones. Consistency is key across all platforms. Use the same fonts, colours, and style for your podcast website, social media profiles, and promotional materials.
A cohesive brand makes your podcast instantly recognisable and builds trust with your audience.
7. Host and distribute your podcast
Once your podcast is recorded and edited, it’s time to make it accessible to listeners. This involves choosing a reliable podcast hosting service and distributing your episodes across popular directories like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts.
Hosting and distribution might sound technical, but it’s a straightforward process when broken down into manageable steps. A podcast host is a platform that stores your audio files and generates an RSS feed.
This RSS feed is the backbone of your podcast – it’s a standardised format that directories use to fetch and display your episodes. When you upload an episode to your host, the RSS feed automatically updates, ensuring your new content appears on all connected platforms.
Popular hosting platforms include Podbean, Captivate, and Anchor. Each offers unique features, so choose one that fits your budget and needs. When selecting a host, consider the storage and upload limits.
Some platforms charge based on the number of hours you upload per month, while others offer unlimited storage. Additional features like analytics, website integration, and marketing tools can also add value. For instance, analytics help you understand where your audience is located, which episodes perform best, and what devices they’re using to listen.
Once you’ve uploaded your episodes to a host, it’s time to distribute them.
Platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts don’t store your episodes directly; they access your RSS feed from the hosting service. Most hosts simplify this process by providing direct integrations.
Each directory may require some additional information during submission. This includes your podcast’s title, description, category, and cover art. Be thoughtful about your description; it’s a chance to hook potential listeners by explaining what your podcast is about and why they should tune in.
Use keywords to improve discoverability, as directories often rely on them for search results. You should also ensure that your podcast is optimised for mobile devices, as most people listen on smartphones.
Test how your episodes appear on various platforms, and check for any formatting issues or errors in your metadata. Once everything is set up, your episodes will automatically distribute to all connected platforms whenever you upload a new one, making it easy to maintain consistency.
By carefully selecting a host and ensuring seamless distribution, you’ll make your podcast accessible to a global audience, paving the way for steady growth.
8. Promote your podcast
Creating a podcast is only half the battle; the other half lies in promoting it effectively. Even the most compelling content won’t gain traction without a solid marketing plan. Promotion involves leveraging social media, engaging with your audience, and exploring creative strategies to expand your reach.
Start by using social media platforms to announce and share your episodes. Platforms like Instagram, X, Facebook, and TikTok are ideal for building an audience.
Tailor your content to each platform, for example, use Instagram Stories or Reels to share behind-the-scenes clips, create tweetable quotes or snippets for X, and post engaging videos on TikTok that highlight the best moments from your episodes.
Consistency is key, so create a posting schedule to keep your audience informed and engaged. Design audiograms, which are short, visually appealing videos featuring audio snippets from your podcast.
Tools like Headliner make it easy to create these clips, which are perfect for grabbing attention on social media. Pair these audiograms with a call-to-action, such as “Listen to the full episode on Spotify!” or “Subscribe to catch our latest interviews.”
Another effective strategy is building an email list. Encourage your listeners to sign up for updates, and use email newsletters to announce new episodes, share exclusive content, or provide additional resources related to your episodes.
A well-crafted email campaign can foster a loyal listener base and drive consistent traffic to your podcast. Collaborating with other podcasters or influencers in your niche is another excellent way to promote your show. You could appear as a guest on similar podcasts, or invite other hosts to join your episodes. This cross-promotion introduces your podcast to more audiences, creating a win-win situation.
Engage directly with your audience by responding to comments, questions, or reviews on social media and podcast platforms. Building a relationship with your listeners fosters loyalty and encourages them to share your podcast with others.
You can also create a sense of community by hosting live Q&A sessions, polls, or discussions related to your episodes.
Plus, you can optimise the podcast so that it shows in search results on various platforms. Use relevant keywords in your episode titles and descriptions, and categorise your podcast appropriately when submitting it to directories. Encourage your audience to leave reviews and ratings, as these boost your podcast’s visibility on platforms like Apple Podcasts.
What makes a great podcast?
Creating a standout podcast involves combining several key elements to engage and retain your audience. Here are the essential features of a great podcast and how you can expand its reach:
1. Clear audio quality
Great audio is the foundation of any successful podcast. Listeners are more likely to tune in if your episodes sound professional. Invest in a quality microphone, use a pop filter to reduce harsh sounds, and record in a quiet, acoustically treated space. Avoid background noise and ensure consistent volume levels to create a seamless listening experience.
2. Engaging and relevant topics
Choose topics that resonate with your target audience and align with your podcast’s niche. For musicians, this might include sharing creative insights, interviewing artists, or discussing industry trends. Keep your content fresh, informative, and entertaining to keep listeners coming back.
3. A consistent publishing schedule
Consistency builds trust. Whether you release weekly or monthly, stick to a schedule so your audience knows when to expect new episodes. Regular publishing also helps with algorithm favourability on podcast directories, making your content easier to discover.
4. Authentic and dynamic hosts
A host who is passionate, relatable, and engaging makes a huge difference. Listeners connect with authenticity, so let your personality shine. If you have co-hosts or guests, foster natural and lively conversations to keep the energy up.
5. A structured format
A clear structure – like segments, storytelling, or interviews – makes your podcast easier to follow. Plan your episodes with a beginning, middle, and end to maintain momentum and deliver a satisfying listener experience.
6. Great visual content
Consider filming your podcast to reach a broader audience. Video content can attract viewers on platforms like YouTube, where podcasts often gain new followers through recommendations.
You can also offer video-exclusive content on platforms like Patreon to monetise and build a closer community with supporters. Filming adds a visual dimension, allowing your audience to see your expressions, interactions, and behind-the-scenes moments, enhancing engagement.
7. Good audience engagement
Encourage listener interaction through social media, polls, Q&A segments, or email feedback. Building a community around your podcast fosters loyalty and helps you understand what resonates most with your audience.
FAQs
How does a beginner start a podcast?
A beginner starts a podcast by choosing a niche topic, creating a format, and selecting basic recording equipment. Begin with a good microphone, recording software, and a hosting platform. You should then plan episodes, practise delivery, and work on marketing to your target audience.
How much does it cost to start a podcast?
Starting a podcast typically costs between £100 and £500, depending on the quality of equipment and software. Entry-level microphones and free software are budget-friendly options, but investing in hosting and soundproofing can improve quality and reach.
How do podcasters get paid?
Podcasters get paid through sponsorships, ads, listener donations, or premium content. Monetisation grows with audience size and engagement, often starting with affiliate marketing. Consistent, high-quality content attracts more lucrative opportunities over time.
Final thoughts
Podcasting is a creative and rewarding way to share your voice with the world. Whether you’re breaking down your favourite tracks, interviewing fellow musicians, or sharing tips for navigating the industry, hopefully, you now know how to start a podcast and have it be unique, successful, and enjoyable to record!
If you’re looking for more articles check out the links below:
The 15 Best Audio Mixers for Home Studios
How To Sample A Song – A Guide To Music Sampling
Hip-Hop Production – Our Tips for Making Beats
0 Comments