There’s no one right way to podcast. Just as there are as many reasons to podcast as people on Earth, there are hundreds of ways to create and manage your podcast, with so many combinations of formats, styles, equipment, and platforms.
In this series of blog posts, we’ll guide you through the steps we recommend for starting a podcast.
And because different podcasters have different goals, needs, budgets, and time to devote, we’ll also highlight recommendations and advice that’s appropriate for different levels of podcaster and podcast!
Here are the three levels of podcast we’ll be talking about in this series.
Which one best suits you? 🧐
Level 1: Make It Quick!
If you want to try out podcasting and/or are looking for a low-cost approach, Level 1 is for you. Follow these tips to get online as easily and inexpensively as possible, while still knowing you’ll be set up properly to expand your efforts in the future if you want to.
You might choose Level 1 if you want to podcast about a personal interest or hobby, you’re creating a fan-based podcast, or you have big future dreams about podcasting but you don’t quite have the budget to invest right now.
Level 2: Polished and Professional
For anyone who wants to add podcasting to the marketing and outreach efforts you’re already making for a business or organization, check out Level 2. At this level, you’ll spend a little more money and time from the start, and that extra investment will help you create a more upscale experience for your audience.
This level is perfect for a small to medium business or nonprofit, or for someone hoping to build a new venture around their podcast.
Level 3: Go Big or Go Home
When only the best will do! If you have a vision for the next big podcast and can afford top-of-the-line equipment (and can invest the time to learn to get the most out of it), Level 3 tips will guide you to creating a world-class podcast.
Don’t Worry, You Can Level Up Later
If you’re not sure what level of podcast you can create, try starting small.
You’ll learn as you go, not only about how to podcast but about what works for you, what your needs and preferences are, and what appeals to your listeners.
The answers about how to podcast, how to podcast successfully, what podcasting gear to use, how long to make the show and all the rest of minute questions that arise as you research or prepare to podcast are often answered when you’re podcasting.
The best solutions are the ones that arise from your own experience in podcasting, consistently.
Plus, podcasting technology, workflows and services are evolving all the time, there may well be some great new piece of tech you’ll want to upgrade to later, an easier workflow that wasn’t available when you started, or a new distribution channel.
When in doubt, keep it simple and focus on creating the best possible content for your audience.
Ready, Set, Go
Here’s our how-to guide to starting a podcast:
- Plan Your Podcast: Think through the who/why/how of your podcast, and set the foundation for success.
- Set Up Your Podcast Studio: Discover where to record your podcast for best audio results.
- Equipment for Recording a Podcast: Choose the right equipment and software you’ll need, no matter where you’re working.
- Get Ready to Record Your Podcast: Set the stage for your first episode. From script to location to what to have on hand, make sure you’re prepared to hit that big red button.
- Record Your First Podcast Episode: It’s go time! Sound like a pro with tips for great microphone technique, smart use of your recording software, and efficient editing. (Coming soon)
- Get Your Podcast Online: Export and save your edited podcast, add artwork, prepare a transcript, and upload to your podcast host. (Coming soon)
- Connect With Your Podcast Audience: Get heard by getting your podcast listed on distribution channels, sharing on social media, and building your audience and your network. Plus, if you hope to monetize your podcast, find out how to create value. (Coming soon)
Are you ready to join the ranks of podcast producers? Let’s do it! Read how to plan your podcast.
Also sign up to get an email when new posts are published.
Have questions, concerns, or ideas about how to start a podcast? Connect with us online — Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn — and use the hashtag #AskLibsyn so we can respond to you in a future post!
You can also email [email protected] with the subject line #AskLibsyn 😊.
While you’re at it, check out our free podcasting quick-start webinars, The Feed: The Official Libsyn Podcast, our award-nominated podcast about podcasting, and our amazing podcasting knowledge base designed specially for people like you.
