Interested in starting a Podcast? Here are my fast, quick, easy tips on how to get started..
Starting a Podcast? Here’s What to Do:
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Some of these are helpful articles and information etc that I just want to share! Enjoy!
STEP 1: I strongly recommend building a website if you have not already. For do-it-yourself-ers, you can easily use GoDaddy or Squarespace. I use GoDaddy to host my domain and I created my site using Squarespace. If you want to jump right into Podcasting, you’ll need a place to host your episodes.
Step 2: There are SEVERAL Podcast Hosting Sites out there. I use Podomatic. Depending on how much space/storage you are looking for, you can start using this for free, but eventually as your episodes increase, you’ll need to purchase a plan, which are typically cheap, between $2/month and $40/month depending on how big you go! There are other host platforms like Anchor which is owned by Spotify, but you can only host your Podcast on Spotify, which limits you from your podcasts being accessible on platforms like Amazon, Apple, Google etc.
Step 3: You’ll need quality EQUIPMENT! Don’t skimp on quality. You don’t need to break the bank, however I made the decision early on to use cheap equipment. If you go back to my earlier podcast episodes, you can hear the difference. There is a significant contrast in audio quality compared to episodes released after late 2021 (no mic “hissing”, voice presence/sound etc.)
Here are some of my strong recommendations:
Audio Technica Condenser Microphone - This is what I use. For better quality a condenser mic is crucial. It enables you to use more power for better quality.
Blue Yeti Microphone - a little more expensive, but easier to connect to your laptop/desktop for recording.
Laptop or Desktop - OBVIOUSLY!! But perhaps some beginners are really beginners. I use a MacBook Air but you can really use anything out there that is not too dated
Pop Filter - Eliminates air blast from speaking/singing. This is an important tool/item. You’ll need this for quality sound. Very affordable. I use this one by Neewer.
Audio Mixer - In order to maximize quality sound with better control, I plug my mic into a this M Audio Mixer. It has a USB connector to your laptop computer and enables you to record multiple instruments at one time. Of course you can skip the mixer and plug straight into your laptop, but you won’t have nearly enough control over the quality of your audio.
Headphones - I prefer these Bose Wireless Headphones with Bluetooth. They provide exceptional, top of the line sound. For a less expensive option, I recommend these JBL Wireless Headphones with Bluetooth. Not as good as the Bose but they get the job done.
Video Cameras - As my YouTube Channel grows, I will likely continue to upgrade. Here are some products I am using and others that come recommended by friends and fellow podcasters I admire.
Camo - Camo is an app for using your phone or tablet as a pro-quality webcam and video recorder. It allows you to access high-quality video directly from your Android, iPhone or iPad's amazing camera on your Mac or PC. The free version of the Camo mobile apps and software gives you excellent video quality and advantages over a traditional USB webcam. However, if you want to use all of the advanced features, you'll need to upgrade to Camo Pro and pay a monthly ($4.99/m), an annual ($39.99/y), or a lifetime licensing fee ($79.99).
Nexigo 1080 P HD Webcam - $40
Logitech C920 X HD Pro - $70
Step 4: Recording/Mixing Software - There are numerous options here, both free and to purchase. I am not a professional mixer/editor/producer but I am very happy with my sound quality today.
Some free options include:
GarageBand Basic - Free for all Mac/Apple Users. Real Easy to Learn. I use this currently. Record multiple tracks, mix/cut them yourself, edit, share. Real user friendly.
Audacity - also free, but a bit more difficult to navigate. Not as user friendly. Does produce good quality.
Ardour - Easy to use, similarly user friendly like GarageBand.
There are SO many options here I didn’t want to overload you. The above are 3 of the easiest ones I’ve used that still produce great quality
Pay Options include:
Logic Pro X - Apple’s Higher Quality Pay Recording Software. Very easy to learn and use. $200. You do also need a Mac with OS v.11 or later.
Pro Tools - Many Professional Music Producers use this. Very reliable. User Friendly. More “state of the art”. $99 for a 1 year subscription. My album, “Independent Thinkers” was recorded using Pro Tools (that was back in the day). Today’s versions are even higher quality.
Riverside - Easy to use. Easy to edit and pull short, editable clips from episodes to share on social media etc. Ability to invite up to 7 guests remotely and records video all on same platform. Like many platforms, Riverside does have a free edition, but the more episodes you record, eventually you’ll have to purchase a pay account. So you’re better off just going with a full free platform (mentioned above) or paying right away to save time, $ and effort later.