Here are some expert tips for someone who wants to start their own podcast:
- Plan your podcast topic and define your "why" and what you want to achieve with the podcast. This motivates you to be consistent and guides the topic choice. Decide the value you offer listeners, such as entertainment, problem-solving, or education.
- Define your target audience clearly—know who you are creating content for, what they care about, what their struggles are, and how to speak their language. Tailor your podcast style and tone to match their preferences.
- Choose a podcast format that fits your style and content, such as solo, interview, roundtable, narrative nonfiction, fiction, or experimental formats.
- Create a brand and podcast name that resonates with your topic and audience. This includes logo, cover art, and overall aesthetic.
- Prepare a solid episode layout or script to keep your episodes engaging and on track. Start episodes with a hook and intro, move to the main content, and finish with a conclusion and call to action.
- Record in a quiet environment with proper microphone technique (position mic 2-4 inches away at a 45-degree angle). Ensure equipment is charged and test sound quality before recording.
- Record a few demo episodes first to get comfortable, then start publishing regularly. Consistent posting helps retain and grow listeners.
- Use platforms like Riverside for remote recording or set up a simple in-person recording space with one microphone per speaker. Hybrid recording requires extra technical care.
- Engage with listeners individually by speaking conversationally, as if talking to one person, to keep the tone natural.
- Promote your podcast via social media and build connections with potential guests and your audience to grow your listener base.
These tips collectively help in structuring, recording, and growing a podcast from scratch.
If further detail is needed on any step, a deeper dive can be done.
