Podcast FAQ

is it hard to start a podcast

by Toby Vandervort Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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Starting a podcast isn't difficult, but there are a number of steps you'll need to go through in order to get it launched. In this podcasting tutorial, we'll walk you through every step of the process: Choosing a topic & name. Show and episode format.Nov 17, 2021

Full Answer

How many people do you need to start a podcast?

How to Start a Podcast: Every Single Step for 2021

  1. What's Your Podcast For? So firstly, why do you want to make a podcast? ...
  2. Who is Your Podcast For? So first day, get the big question in: Who are you making this podcast for? ...
  3. Give Them a Reason to Listen Whether you're providing information that will help someone to lose weight (in the case of our personal trainer), or doing a really entertaining ...

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How to successfully start a podcast?

  • Do a test recording before you go live to make sure the mic sounds good and the correct microphone is recording.
  • Structure out your podcast before recording. ...
  • Research your guests before the day of the podcast.
  • Keep your mic close to your mouth for the best sound.

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How to overcome your fears and start a podcast?

Grab out a pen and pencil, or open your laptop and answer these questions:

  • What are you afraid of?
  • What do you fear most in life?
  • Do you know what you’re afraid of?
  • Do you consider how it impacts your daily actions and behaviors?
  • If you would free yourself from that fear, how would your life differ?
  • How would it improve?

How much should it cost to produce a podcast?

They should be able to help with everything from concept, to branding, to production, and promotion. Expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $15,000+ for an episode depending on the type of podcast you are producing (interview-based, narrative or story-driven, or a mixture of the two).

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How much does it cost to start a podcast?

In fact, if you already have a computer and you're operating on a shoestring budget, you can record, edit, and launch a podcast for less than $200. On the other hand, if you want to use higher-end equipment, starting a podcast can cost a few thousand dollars.

Can just anyone start a podcast?

Anyone can start a podcast. You just have to record your episodes and publish them online. However, turning your podcast show into a successful business is altogether a different story.

Is starting a podcast a good idea?

Not only is podcasting a new and exciting medium poised to take off exponentially, but podcasts themselves are great for producing or reproducing content. If you already have audio or video classes, you can quickly and easily turn them into podcast episodes.

How profitable is a podcast?

Big names are getting large amounts of listeners and large amounts of ad revenue in return. According to AdvertiseCast, average 30-second CPM (cost per 1K listeners) rates are $18, while 60-second CPMs are $25. The Ringer had about 420 million downloads in 2018, earning $15 million in ad revenue (paywall).

How long does it take for a podcast to make money?

Relying on the experience of Marc Clair, a podcast host, and producer, it may take as long as 18 months before you start seeing results. That's if you produce a show weekly. In his words, things can be faster than stated if you have luck, a marketing budget, and irresistible content.

Does podcasting take a lot of time?

Just to begin, Podcasting can take as much time as you allow it. The range of podcasting styles, formats and production quality is as wide as the number of podcasts there are out there in the world. There are people out there who spend weeks producing just one 20 minute episode.

What makes a bad podcast?

Bad audio quality. Too many ad reads or annoying/irrelevant ad reads. Lack of preparation or planning.

Is it too late to start a podcast 2021?

2021 is the year of the podcast.

Why you shouldn't make a podcast?

You think it needs little time. Many people think that podcasting needs a bit of reading and a little bit of speaking, and anyone can record an episode quickly. And such people shouldn't start a podcast, because it is going to demand a lot more of your time.

Do podcasts get paid on Spotify?

Streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Podcasts pay out for streams, but the payout tends to be very low. Podcast sponsorships are one way, but for new podcasts, the likelihood of finding a high-paying sponsorship is slim unless you're already a well-established figure.

Do podcasts on Spotify make money?

Commissions From Affiliate Marketing: Affiliate marketing is another primary avenue for earning money on Spotify podcasts. You quote a unique link in your podcast through which your listeners can purchase products. The seller pays you commissions on purchases customers make through your link.

Can you make a living off a podcast?

All you have to do is read your ads on your podcast recording according to your agreement. In fact, sponsorships are the most lucrative way to make money from your podcast. According to IAB and PwC, advertisers spent $678 million in 2019 and will spend more than a billion in 2020.

Can you start a podcast alone?

A solo podcast episode is an episode consisting of only the host elaborating on a topic they're an expert on. Think of it as a TED Talk but without the live audience and all the pressure. Normally, a solo episode is shorter than an interview because, well, there's only one person talking.

How do you start a podcast with no audience?

20 step guide for starting a podcast with no existing audiencePick an idea (ideation)Create a listener persona (marketing)Pick an angle for your show (ideation)Define your brand idea (marketing)Choose your recording gear.Draft or script coherent c.a. 5 episodes.Record your episodes and cut your material.More items...

Can you have a podcast with no guests?

Without any audience listening to your podcast, it would nearly be impossible to convince any guest to appear on your podcast. Don't worry! Every podcast starts with zero listeners. Each one of the podcasters starts on zero footings and without any guests.

What is needed to start a podcast?

Steps to Start a PodcastDecide why you want to start a podcast.Choose a podcast topic, theme, and name.Select a podcast format and structure.Create podcast branding.Set up your podcast equipment.Find the best podcast recording software.Prepare for your first few podcast episodes.More items...•

What is a podcast page?

Podcastpage is a website builder and hosting all-in-one made specifically for podcasts. Kind of like Wix but designed for the needs podcasters. No coding is necessary. You just choose one of their themes, customize to your liking, and optionally integrate email marketing or Google Analytics.

What is an Alitu?

If that’s the case, then Alitu might be the way to go. It’s a ‘podcast making’ tool that automates a lot of the confusing technical parts, and practically builds your episode for you. It’s all based right inside your browser, so no software to download, and it works on any computer connected to the internet.

Is it easier to start a podcast with a co-host?

It can be much easier to start podcasting if you have a co-host. You will naturally have a more engaging conversation if you both share your points of view on a topic . It can also be helpful to have someone to keep things on track. Plus, you can split additional tasks of editing, promoting, and more.

1. Do Your Research

Odds are, you already listen to several podcasts. (If you don’t, check some out before getting started on your own!) But as you conduct some competitive research and unlock your own inspiration, listen strategically.

2. Choose Your Topic

There are a few different ways to approach coming up with a topic to focus your podcast around. A good place to start is to think about things you are already hooked on or know a lot about.

3. Consider the Ideal Format for Your Podcast

There are many different types of popular podcast formats. Deciding which one lends itself best to the content you plan to create is important to ponder before recording. You can always change this up depending on the direction your podcast ends up taking, but having a basic format in mind can be a good north star to follow.

4. Name Your Podcast

Having a name for your podcasting project can help make it feel more real. It will also quickly become a shorthand pitch that helps people connect with the concept. Naming is a necessary step from the idea-in-your head phase to an actual, presentable piece of media with its own unique identity.

5. Record Your Podcast (!)

Figuring out how to actually record a podcast keeps most of us out there from turning our podcasting dreams into reality. The good news is you don’t need a lot of equipment, and there are plenty of places to find affordable podcasting microphones.

6. Find the Right Recording Equipment

Like we said, there is no need to stress over hunting down the most ideal equipment. Here are a few basic recommendations to keep in mind, though, if you do choose to create your own makeshift recording studio:

7. Edit Your Podcast

Phew. You’re finally done recording. But once you've recorded your first episode, you’re a long way from being able to send your creation out into the world.

What is a podcast host?

The podcast host is the intermediary between your podcast and your audience. After providing the description and posting the relevant artwork, the podcast is published on the hosting service. You will receive your podcast’s RSS feed link from the host.

How much does BuzzSprout cost?

BuzzSprout possesses all of the features that you need to advertise your podcast content on the Internet. Its basic plan starts at $12 a month. BuzzSprout also offers a free option that hosts episodes for 90 days.

How long should a podcast be?

Determine the podcast length. You need to respect your audience’s time and set a reasonable episode length that is consistent throughout the series. Twenty minutes is generally the ideal episode length for a podcast, as most people listen to podcasts while commuting to and from work.

Why do podcasts need to be pre-planned?

Every podcast must be pre-planned with a tailored approach to make sure that the quality remains consistent throughout the entire show.

How to make your podcast visible?

To make your podcast visible in the digital space, you need to sign up with a hosting company. These are platforms that store your files and provide access to your listeners so that they can download and subscribe to your podcast.

What is a personal trainer's podcast called?

For example, a personal trainer’s podcast could be called ‘The Fitness Podcast, ’ which perfectly highlights the niche of the podcast. But you must avoid using long names because you will be saying the name quite often in your podcast.

What are the different types of podcasts?

The structure of your podcast is critical. Here are a few podcast formats to choose from: 1 Interview style – This is the most popular format these days as each episode introduces the listener to exciting and inspirational people from a specific niche. The format is generally unscripted and free-flowing and requires minimum editing. 2 News and current events show – This format focuses on sports, politics, technology, or any other hot topic that lets you provide non-stop fresh content to your listeners. 3 Multi-host show – A podcast with more than two people creates intrigue and can be highly entertaining with a conversational tone. There will be less pressure on you since the responsibility of presenting great content to your audience is divided among all hosts. 4 Solo style – In these podcasts, you can tell a story in each episode that is relevant to the topic of your podcast. It could be in any tone as long as the content is educational or motivational. By occasionally inviting a guest on the show, you can entice the audience and engage them in your podcast.

How many podcasts do you listen to a week?

According to The Infinite Dial by Edison Research, podcast listeners in the US hear an average of 8 podcasts a week. In other words, you don’t have to be the only show that listeners enjoy to become a successful podcaster. You all have something in common and similar goals.

How to name a podcast?

There are several important things to consider before you settle on your name: How to choose a name for your podcast. Choose a unique name. Use power words to evoke emotion. Don’t use the word “podcast” in your title.

What does #FF stand for in podcasts?

There are so many hashtags that you can use on social media that will get your page viewers, which may lead to your podcast getting listeners. Many podcasters use #FF which stands for “Follow Friday.” List other podcasts and use the hashtag. It will get retweeted and you’ll find yourself on tons of lists linked to the hashtag. Other common hashtags are #PodernFamily and #PodcastShuffle.

What is a cohost on a podcast?

Cohosting is one of the most popular podcast formats. While solo podcasting can be very intimidating, adding a cohost on your podcast can help you break the ice and get comfortable on the mic, especially if the cohost is someone you feel comfortable with and can easily carry on conversation.

How many people listen to podcasts in 2023?

Podcasts are exploding. According to the latest research, 116 million people have listened to a podcast within the past month. Edison Research estimates that podcast listening could double by 2023. Podcasts are boosting company sales, raising brand awareness, and opening up a new channel for content marketing.

What does transcription do for podcasts?

It is indeed what it sounds like: a written, word-for-word depiction of your podcast episode. By providing a transcription, you automatically stand out from the crowd because now, regardless of their timing or situations, your audience can engage with your content — whether with their ears or their eyes. Reading your own spoken words can also help you to polish your speaking skills for later episodes. Already having your podcast in written format allows you to quickly grab highlight quotes for your website, social media, email blasts, etc. One of the most valuable things transcription can do is boost your SEO efforts, so that more people can find your podcast.

Why do podcasts have show notes?

Show notes are also a way that helps confirm your credibility and demonstrate your care for the listener. Additionally, if you are sure to include keywords, it can do wonders for your SEO endeavors, so that a larger number of people can find your podcast.

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Planning

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This is the initial (often overlooked) stage to make a podcast. You’ll want to spend a good amount of time here before you move on. Feel free to get out a notebook or a whiteboard so you can start planning your podcast like a pro.
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Preparation

  • Now that you’ve written down your topic, format(s), and secured a domain name, we’ll need to get a few things prepared ahead of launch…
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Recording & Editing

  • Alitu
    If you haven’t used editing software before, even simple actions in GarageBand or Audacity can be quite intimidating. It’s understandable: audio production is completely full of jargon! If that’s the case, then Alitu might be the way to go. It’s a ‘podcast making’ tool that automates a lot of the c…
  • GarageBand
    I’m going to show you how to use GarageBand for recording and editing. Other audio editing software is similar but most have more advanced features that you don’t need when getting started. Popular options are Adobe Audition & Audacity(both work with Mac & PC). You can als…
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Launch!

  • Get A Podcast Host
    I use and highly recommend Buzzsprout podcast hostingafter trying many different companies over the years. Plus you’ll get a free $20 Amazon gift card after you sign up for a paid plan! Feel free to check out our complete podcast hosting guide if you want to see other options, but anoth…
  • Upload Your First Episode
    If you use Buzzsprout, this process is super simple. If not, it’s possible you need to mess with things like embedding ID3 tags into your MP3. Sounds confusing and unnecessary – let’s not do that. You’ll just need to click the “Upload” button: and they’ll apply some magic processing to you…
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Recommended Steps

  • Your job isn’t done once you start a podcast. Here are my recommendations to help make your show more appealing and easier to grow:
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