Podcast FAQ

start a podcast

by Addie Wiegand Published 2 years ago Updated 1 year ago
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To start a podcast, at a bare minimum, you need to:

  • Come up with a concept (a topic, name, format, and target length for each episode).
  • Design artwork and write a description to “brand” your podcast.
  • Record and edit your audio files (such as MP3s). A microphone is recommended (more on podcast equipment later).
  • Find a place to host your files (such as a file host that specializes in podcasts, like Libsyn or Podbean ).
  • Syndicate these audio files into an RSS feed so they can be distributed through Apple Podcasts and downloaded or streamed on any device on-demand.

How to Start a Podcast: The 5-Stage Guide
  1. 1ST: PLANNING. Why are you Making a Podcast? Who is Your Podcast For? Give Them a Reason to Listen. Naming Your Podcast.
  2. 2ND: EPISODE FORMAT. How Long? How Often? Choosing Good Titles. ...
  3. 3RD: RECORDING & GEAR. Recording Equipment. Recording & Editing Software. How to Script your Podcast.
Mar 31, 2022

How do you start a podcast as a beginner?

  • Set a definite date and time for publishing
  • Have one evergreen recorded podcast (As a backup plan)
  • Mention Website link at the start & end of Show notes
  • Use an animated video overlay and publish your podcast on YouTube.
  • Connect with best minds in your industry by inviting them to be a guest on your podcast show.

Should you really start a podcast?

How to Start a Podcast

  • Step #1: Choose a topic you love. ...
  • Step #2: Pick a podcast title. ...
  • Step #3: Write a sound description. ...
  • Step #4: Get your artwork created. ...
  • Step #5: Pre-plan your episodes. ...
  • Step #6: Pick your podcast hosting provider. ...
  • Step #7: Prepare and make a recording. ...
  • Step #8: Publish an episode. ...
  • Step #9: Submit to directories. ...

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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What are some best practices for starting a podcast?

Podcast Best Practices: Creating an Intro and Outro. The intro of any podcast sets the stage. Your intro will either grab your listener’s attention or lose it. Your outro should always wrap up the podcast and leave a call to action. Keep reading to discover the podcast best practices for creating an intro and outro. The Intro

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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.

Do podcasters make money?

Sponsorships are the most common way podcasters make money. This is when the podcast promotes the sponsor during the show. You probably hear your favorite shows plug their advertisers a few times in every episode. How much you earn from a sponsor depends on the number of downloads your episodes earn.

How does a beginner start a podcast?

Table of ContentsChoose a Podcast Topic You Can Commit To.Pick Your Podcast Name.Write a Compelling Podcast Description.Decide on Your Podcast Format.Get Your Podcast Artwork and Music Created.Purchase Your Podcast Equipment and Test Your Podcasting Software.Choose Your Podcast Hosting Service.More items...

Can I start a podcast for free?

Most podcasts are free. They're free to create and free to listen to.

Does Spotify pay you for podcasts?

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?

The short answer is: No. Spotify does not pay for podcasts, but fret not! We have good news for you: There are many ways to monetize a Spotify podcast. You can make money on your podcasts through sponsorships, affiliate programs, ads, coaching, and more.

How do podcasts make money?

Advertising and sponsorships are probably the first things you think of when looking for ways to make money from podcasting. There are several different podcast ad networks that can connect you with advertisers. They do all the work of finding advertisers, negotiating rates, getting the script, and more.

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.

What equipment is needed for a podcast?

For a conventional podcast, you need at a minimum a microphone, headphones, a computer, recording and mixing software, and internet access.

How much does it cost to have a podcast on Spotify?

You can start using podcast hosting provider Buzzsprout for free, but you're better to opt for their $12 a month plan. That way, your episodes won't be deleted after 90 days, and you can upload more content, too.

What makes a podcast successful?

Keep the topic simple. A podcast with focus is going to be much easier for potential listeners to understand. You might think a wide appeal will get a wider audience but more often a narrow appeal means there's less likelihood others are doing the same thing. And the listeners you get will be very excited to find you.

Can I record podcast on my phone?

Anchor (iOS and Android) Anchor is a free mobile app (iOS and Android) that makes it easy to create your podcast project. You can also use Anchor to host and sell your podcast, if you want to take it to the next level. This mobile app makes it simple to create a podcast. Available for iOS and Android.

How much money can you make from a podcast?

As an estimate, if your podcast has about 10,000 downloads per episode, you can expect to make between $500 – $900 per episode in affiliate sales.

How much does an average podcaster make?

Overall, median hourly earnings for podcasters clusters between $30-44/hour (corresponding to $55K to $80K as an annual salary). New York and Los Angeles employers offer the best rates, the remaining top ten media market cities come in slightly lower, and podcasters elsewhere come in significantly lower.

How much money do Top podcasters make?

Income from Popular Podcasts The Dave Ramsey Show has 13 million weekly listeners and earns nearly $10 million in annual income. Shepard Armchair Expert earns $9 million a year with almost 20 million monthly listeners. The Bill Simmons Podcast earns $7 million yearly income. Chapo Trap House makes $2 million each year.

How do you make money from podcasts?

Advertising and sponsorships are probably the first things you think of when looking for ways to make money from podcasting. There are several different podcast ad networks that can connect you with advertisers. They do all the work of finding advertisers, negotiating rates, getting the script, and more.

Why do people start podcasts?

There are so many reasons for starting a podcast! Some of those reasons are to grow your business, connect with people in your niche, create a relationship with your audience, and self-fulfillment. As of January 2020, there are over 1 million podcasts available, with over 30 million podcast episodes to listen to.

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.

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.

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 is a podcast host?

Media or Podcast hosts are services that store your audio and allow your listeners to listen, download, and subscribe to your podcast. One common misconception when learning how to start a podcast is that you upload your podcast to places like iTunes. This actually isn’t the case.

What is the point of a podcast?

The whole point of a podcast is that people listen to it, so give them a reason to click on one of your episodes. Make it clear to people what they will get from listening to your show. If you look on any podcast directory you will see shows with titles like “How To…”, “Five Tips For…” etc.

How many episodes of a season of podcast?

When you start a seasonal podcast, each season will usually have a theme. You might create episodes based on that theme or topic for 6-12 episodes, then have a break. After a month or two, you’ll launch a new season (with another theme/topic) and repeat the process.

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.

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.

Why do people start podcasts?

Lastly, starting a podcast allows you to position yourself as an authority on your topic. It helps build your audience and also makes it easier to sell your product or service since you're the credible source. Being seen as an authority can help influence potential customers to purchase your products.

How to record a podcast on a computer?

When it comes to how to record a podcast, all you need to do is plug in a USB microphone and open the audio recording software on your computer. Ensure your microphone is plugged in and turned on and that your microphone is the default input device for your recording software.

Why upload podcasts to Spotify?

Spotify is an up-and-coming directory for podcasts because of its popularity with music streaming and ability to make relevant music and podcast recommendations. The directory is growing quickly, so you want to get your podcast in its feed to improve visibility.

How many podcasts are there in 2019?

In 2019, US weekly podcast listeners averaged seven podcasts each week.

How many people listen to podcasts a month?

According to Edison Research, the number of Americans listening to podcasts every week increased 175% over the last five years, with roughly 90 million listening to a podcast each month.

What is a podcast on Stitcher?

Stitcher is the second largest podcast directory and another great way for people to discover your podcast. Basic Brewing Radio, for example, is a podcast on Stitcher that discusses homebrewing beer. Wine enthusiasts, on the other hand, can tune in to the Wine for Normal People podcast.

Why is podcasting important?

If you understand the value of creating content (e.g., blogging) for your business and brand, then you understand the value of podcasting. Creating a podcast allows you to reach a brand new audience: people who might otherwise never find or consume your long-form content because they prefer the audio format.

How often do podcasts publish?

The latest statistics from Buzzsprout show that 37% of episodes publish every 3-7 days, while 40% of podcasts publish every 8-14 days.

Why do podcasts need scripts?

Recording a scripted podcast can give you better control over the content and flow of each podcast episode. If timing and production or editing need to be a tight fit, a detailed script may even be essential. But relying on a script can also hold you back. Here’s a look at some of the things to consider.

What are the KPIs for podcasts?

Relevant to long-term goals and/or overall business objectives. Time-limited to a specific period of time. The KPIs for your podcast should make it easy to track its growth. However, depending on your organization’s broader business goals, you may also want to measure other factors.

Do podcasts need an email list?

An email list. Building an email list may not be a top priority and, if your podcast is attached to an existing brand, you may have an email distribution list already. However, if it does fit your business strategy, a strong email list can help you grow and monetize your podcast down the road. 6.

About the Course

Brandon Stover from the Evolve Podcast teaches you how to make, market, & monetize your podcast in 60 days. With step by step guidance, you'll learn how to attract your ideal listener, share your story, and help hundreds with your message.

Don't Take Our Word For It

"I came to Brandon through his course on how to start your own podcast. Brandon's episodes stood out to me by how well organized they were. His ideas are clearly articulated and he breaks down exactly how to understand your target audience. Brandon is smart, approachable, friendly, and helpful. Highly recommend!"

Couse Content

Learn how to make, market, and monetize your podcast in just 10 minutes a day!

How It Works

Short, daily lessons to easily understand concepts step by step until they are mastered.

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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.
See more on podcastinsights.com

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…
See more on podcastinsights.com

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…
See more on podcastinsights.com

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:
See more on podcastinsights.com

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