Podcasting

If you want your company to have your own podcast don’t hesitate to contact me! I’m very well versed in subjects such as the outdoors, like camping, hiking and bushcraft, but I’ve also worked extensively with bathrooms. Both as a salesman but also as a lecturer and teacher. Furthermore, I’d love to set up an ongoing podcast series with you, if that’s what you desire. My preferred format is interviews.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Planning Your Podcast
3. Hosting Your Podcast
4. Website vs. Free Alternative
5. Sound Editing
6. Recording
7. Social Media
8. Creating a Structure for Continous Updates

1. Introduction

Before we dive into the details, let’s start with a brief introduction to podcasting. A podcast is essentially a digital audio file that can be downloaded and listened to on a variety of devices. Podcasts cover a wide range of topics, from news and politics to entertainment and comedy. The beauty of podcasting is that it allows individuals to create and distribute their own content without the need for traditional broadcasting equipment or licenses.

Podcasting has become an increasingly popular medium in recent years, with millions of people tuning in to listen to their favorite shows. The popularity of podcasts can be attributed to a number of factors, including their convenience and accessibility. Podcasts can be listened to at any time, and on any device, making them a great way to consume content on the go.

2. Planning Your Podcast

The first step in starting a podcast is to plan out your content. You don’t want to be stuck 5 episodes in with no plan on how to continue. Podcasting is about the continous flow of content! Here’s some things you might need to consider:

Choose a Topic

Consider your interests, expertise, and target audience when selecting a topic for your podcast. It’s important to choose a topic that you’re passionate about and that will resonate with your listeners. Think about what you want to achieve with your podcast and what kind of message you want to convey to your audience. There are a few podcasts that simply doesn’t bother with a specific subject but talk about a little of everything. This can be a good idea if you want to build a personal lifestyle brand instead of an image of yourself as an expert on a topic.

Determine Your Format

Select a format that caters to your topic and target audience. This may include solo shows, interviews, or a mix of both. Consider what format will best suit your topic and what will keep your listeners engaged.

Create a Schedule

Decide on the frequency of episode releases and plan your content accordingly. Consistency is key when it comes to building an audience. Consider how much time and effort you can realistically put into your podcast and set a schedule that you can stick to.

3. Hosting

The next step is to choose a hosting provider for your podcast. Here are some things to consider:

Hosting Alternatives

There are a variety of hosting alternatives for your podcast, both free and paid options. Each option has its own benefits and drawbacks, so do your research and choose the one that’s right for you. Some popular hosting providers include SoundCloud, Libsyn, and Podbean. Lately Substackhas risen as a competitor on the podcast hosting market.

Benefits of Hosting on a Third-Party Platform

Hosting your podcast on a third-party platform, such as SoundCloud or Libsyn, can offer a number of benefits, including ease of use and wider distribution. These platforms make it easy to upload and distribute your podcast, and they often have built-in tools for analytics and audience engagement.

Tips for Selecting the Right Hosting Provider

When choosing a hosting provider, consider your goals and technical expertise. Some providers may offer more advanced features, while others may be more beginner-friendly. Look for a provider that offers a balance of features and ease of use, and don’t be afraid to shop around until you find the right fit.

I myself have tried a couple of different hosting platforms, such as Libsyn(my current one), Podbean, and Substack. While I have nothing bad to say about Podbean, I just chose Libsyninstead.

Substackis a great choice if you plan to have a newsletter to accompany your podcast and you want the absolute minimum amount of work. They also provide you with an easy way to get monetized through subscriptions on their platform. Substackis a great place to host your podcast for new podcasters since it has no initial fees.

4. Website vs Hosting Provider’s Site

Another important decision to make when starting a podcast is whether to use a website, blog, or hosting provider’s website for your podcast. Here are some things to consider:

Pros and Cons

There are pros and cons to both options, so it’s important to weigh them carefully. Using a website or blog can give you more control over your content and branding, while using a hosting provider’s site can be more convenient and cost-effective. Consider what you want to achieve with your podcast and what kind of platform will best help you achieve those goals.

Tips for Selecting Platform

Consider your goals and technical expertise when selecting the right platform for your podcast. If you’re comfortable with web design and want more control over your content, a website or blog may be the right choice. If you’re looking for a more streamlined solution, a hosting provider’s site may be the way to go. Look for a platform that offers the features and flexibility you need to create the podcast you envision. Personally, I’d suggest you try out Substack if you don’t have any knowledge in web design or just want a nice looking home for your podcast without any fluff!

My current podcasting project “Ur Vår Jord Podd” with my co-host Alexis currently hosted on Substack! Check it out and give a follow if the subject interests you!

5. Sound Quality

Sound quality is crucial in podcasting, as it can make or break the listening experience for your audience. Here are some tips for improving your sound quality:

I will discuss gear such as microphones, recording devices, etc. in a different post!

Removing Background Noise

Make sure to record in a quiet environment to minimize background noise. Also make sure to keep your mouth close to the microphone and at the same distance during the entirty of the recording. Even in a noisy environment this can help tremendously to improve sound quality. Consider investing in a good quality microphone to capture clear, crisp audio.

Leveling Audio Levels

Make sure your audio levels are consistent throughout your podcast to avoid distracting volume changes. Use a sound editing software to adjust the levels and ensure your podcast sounds professional. I myself really enjoy using Ferriteon iPad with the Apple Pencil. It makes for easy editing while lying on the couch!

6. Different Podcasting Formats

There are a variety of formats for recording a podcast, including remote recording and in-person recording. Here are some tips for selecting the right recording format:

Choosing the Right Format for Your Topic and Target Audience

Consider your topic and target audience when selecting the right recording format. Remote recording can be a great option if you’re interviewing guests from different locations, while in-person recording can be more engaging and personal. Choose the format that best suits your podcast’s needs and goals.

7. Social Media

Social media can be a powerful tool for promoting your podcast and growing your audience.

Creating Engaging Content

Create engaging content that will resonate with your audience and encourage them to share your podcast with others. You can also use social media to share behind-the-scenes glimpses of your podcast creation process and interact with your listeners.

Interacting with Your Listeners

Interact with your listeners on social media to build a sense of community around your podcast. Respond to comments and feedback, and ask for suggestions and input from your audience. This can also be a very good way to get new ideas for future episodes!

Expanding Your Reach

Consider reaching out to other podcasters in your niche or related fields to collaborate on a project or guest on each other’s shows. This can help expand your reach and introduce your podcast to new audiences.

8. Creating a Structure for Continuous Updates

Finally, it’s important to create a structure for your podcast to keep your listeners engaged and interested. Here are some tips for creating a format for your podcast:

Having a Consistent Intro and Outro

Having a consistent intro and outro can help establish your brand and make your podcast more memorable. Use music or sound effects to create a unique and recognizable intro and outro.

Using Segments

Using segments can help break up your podcast and keep your listeners engaged. Consider using different segments for different topics or guests, and use music or sound effects to signal the start and end of each segment.

Including Guest Interviews

Including guest interviews can bring fresh perspectives to your podcast and help you reach new audiences. Reach out to experts in your field or other podcasters to invite them to share their insights and experiences on your show.

9. Conclusion on podcasting

Starting a podcast may seem daunting at first, but with the right planning and preparation, it can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. By following the steps outlined in this article, you’ll be well on your way to creating a successful podcast that resonates with your audience. Remember to stay true to your vision and voice, and to have fun along the way! With patience and dedication, you can grow your podcast and create a loyal following of listeners who appreciate your unique voice and content. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your podcast today and take the first step towards sharing your ideas with the world!

---