How to start a podcast

Planning

Define your podcast's purpose

• The Why Factor: Every venture begins with a 'why'. So, ask yourself, Why are you diving into the podcasting world? This isn't just about you; it's about your listeners. Are you aiming to bridge a knowledge gap, share personal experiences, or simply entertain? By understanding your motivation, you pave the way for authentic, compelling content.
• Impact and Longevity: Think about the long-term effects. Do you envision your podcast as a platform that will evolve with time? A clear mission doesn't just guide your initial episodes; it's the beacon for your podcast's evolution.

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Identify your target audience

• Demographics and Psychographics: Dive into Specifics Age, location, gender, occupation, interests, and challenges—the more you know about your audience, the better. This way, your content isn't just general; it's tailored, making listeners feel like you're speaking directly to them. Edison has lots of useful information on demographics, genre and audience profiles.
• Audience Persona: Craft a detailed listener persona. Give them a name, background, and challenges. This imaginary listener will be your reference point for content creation, ensuring you remain relatable.

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Create compelling content

• Research and Relevance: Ensure your topics are both interesting and timely. Employ tools like Google Trends or BuzzSumo to gauge what's resonating in your podcast's niche.
• Consistency is key: While sporadic genius moments are great, what truly builds an audience is consistency. Set a content calendar, brainstorm topics in advance, and stick to a release schedule.
• Engage and Iterate: Once you start, seek feedback. Modify and adapt as you go. The first episode won't be perfect, but with continuous engagement and improvement, you'll hit the mark.

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Choose a podcast name

• Brainstorming Session: List down words, phrases, and ideas related to your podcast's theme. Mix and match, play with synonyms, and look for puns or plays on words.
• Clarity over Catchiness: While it's great to have a catchy name, clarity is crucial. Potential listeners should get an inkling of the podcast's theme just by hearing its name.
• Seek Feedback: Before finalising, float the name among friends, family, or potential listeners. They might provide insights you hadn't considered.

Episode Format

Determine episode length

• The Audience's Lifestyle Matters: Understand your audience's daily routines. Are they likely to listen during a commute, a gym session, or while cooking dinner? Tailoring your episode length to these routines can boost listenership.
• Content is King: Ensure your content dictates the episode length and not the other way around. If a topic requires 40 minutes, don’t cut it short to fit a 20-minute format, but also don’t drag a 15-minute topic to an hour.

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Decide on episode frequency

• Consistency Creates loyalty: Whether it's daily, weekly, or biweekly, pick a frequency and stick to it. Regular release patterns create a sense of anticipation among your listeners.
• Balance Quality and Quantity: While it might be tempting to release frequent episodes, always prioritise quality. If producing high-quality content means releasing biweekly episodes instead of weekly, that's perfectly okay.Choose good podcast titles
• First Impressions Count: Your episode title is often the first thing potential listeners see. It should be intriguing enough to draw them in, but clear enough to set accurate expectations.Optimise for Search: Incorporate keywords relevant to your episode content. This not only clarifies the topic for listeners but also aids in discoverability on podcast platforms.

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Select a format

• Solo Shows: Going solo means having complete control over the content. It's intimate and can help build a personal brand. Remember, it requires a certain level of energy to keep listeners engaged without another voice to break the monotony.
• Co-hosted: A co-host can bring a different perspective, share the workload, and create dynamic conversations. However, ensure both hosts have chemistry and a shared vision for the show.
• Interviews: This format can attract a guest's followers to your show and provide varied insights. However, it requires skills in sourcing guests, scheduling, and conducting engaging interviews.
• Roundtable or Panel: A discussion among multiple people can offer diverse views on a single topic. It’s great for debates but requires careful moderation to avoid chaos.
• Narrative or Storytelling: Often used by true crime or historical podcasts, this format presents a story with a clear beginning, middle, and end. It can be highly engaging but requires meticulous research and planning. Excellent sound design and voice acting can elevate the experience.
• News Recap or Commentary: Perfect if you're looking to keep your audience updated on the latest happenings in a specific niche or industry. These are often more frequent, such as daily or weekly, and need to be timely.
• Q&A or Answering Listener Questions: Foster a sense of community by directly addressing listener questions. This format can be either an entire show dedicated to answering queries or a segment within a larger episode structure.
• Educational or How-To: Designed to inform or teach listeners about a specific topic. This could range from business advice, DIY crafts, self-improvement tips, or any other instructional material.
• Review or Critique: Dive into books, movies, music, tech products, or any other item/topic of interest. Share your thoughts, insights, and ratings while engaging listeners who might be considering the same content or products.
• Field Reporting or Investigative: Instead of a studio setting, recordings happen on the field, capturing real-time reactions, interviews, and ambiance. Think of it as an auditory documentary.
• Role-Playing or Fictional: Like an audio drama, hosts and guests act out scenarios or stories, often with scripts, sound effects, and music. It can be episodic with ongoing stories or standalone episodes.

Recording & Gear

Choose recording equipment

• Microphone: Start with a USB microphone if you're on a budget. As you advance, consider upgrading to an XLR microphone. Brands like Audio-Technica, Rode, and Shure offer great options.
• Headphones: Invest in a pair of closed-back headphones for clear sound while recording and editing. They help in catching subtle nuances or errors.
• Audio Interface: If using an XLR microphone, an audio interface converts the analog signal to a digital one. Popular choices include Focusrite Scarlett and PreSonus AudioBox.

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Select recording & editing software

• Beginners: Audacity (free) and GarageBand (for Mac users) are solid starting points.
• Intermediate to Advanced: Adobe Audition, Logic Pro X, and Hindenburg Journalist provide more refined editing capabilities.

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Script your podcast

While you don't have to script word for word, a clear outline helps guide the conversation. Jot down bullet points or key questions to ensure you cover essential topics. Remember, spontaneity can be golden, but a little structure can prevent meandering.

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Learn how to talk into a mic

Hold the microphone about a fist's distance away from your mouth. Speak past the mic, not directly into it, to reduce plosive sounds. Also, maintain consistent distance to avoid volume fluctuations.

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Record remote calls if necessary

If your podcast includes remote guests or co-hosts, software like Riverside, Zencastr, SquadCast, or Cleanfeed can capture high-quality audio from both ends. Always have a backup recording running, as tech glitches can and do happen.

Stepping into the podcasting realm might seem intimidating, especially with the technical jargon and myriad equipment choices. Remember, the essence of your podcast lies in the content and connection with your audience. Gear is just a tool to aid that connection. And hey, if it all seems a tad overwhelming, just remember: we at OneFinePlay have been mastering these skills for years. We're always here, ready to lend a hand or offer guidance.

Editing & Production

Edit your podcast episodes

Every minute you spend editing can have a profound effect on the final product, transforming raw audio into a captivating experience.

• Purpose of Podcast Editing: Podcast editing is more than just removing mistakes. It's about ensuring a cohesive narrative flow, keeping listeners engaged from start to finish.
• Trimming: It's not just about cutting out mistakes. It's about pacing. Every pause, "um," and repetitive phrase can impact engagement. Trim to create a rhythm that keeps listeners hooked.
• Segment Arrangement: After the initial trimming, consider the flow. Would rearranging certain segments make the episode more engaging or logical? If so, rearrange.
• Software Choices: For podcast editing, tools like Audacity provide beginner-friendly interfaces, while Adobe Audition or Reaper caters to the advanced editor. Dive into tutorials and familiarise yourself with their features.

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Add intro and outro music

• Significance: A catchy intro can captivate listeners immediately, while an outro can wrap up an episode neatly or tease the next episode.
• Music Choices: Your intro and outro music should resonate with your podcast's theme. Avoid lengthy intros; a few seconds is usually sufficient.
• Music Licensing: Always ensure you have the right to use any music. Platforms like Epidemic Sound or PremiumBeat offer extensive royalty-free tracks tailored for podcast use.

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Optimise audio quality

The difference between amateur and professional often lies in the details.

• Equalisation (EQ): Using EQ can add depth and clarity to voices. Proper EQ ensures your podcast sounds crisp, clear, and pleasant.
• Compression: Maintain a consistent audio level throughout your podcast. Compression ensures that loud and quiet moments are evened out for a balanced listening experience.
• Noise Reduction: Clean audio is pivotal. Softwares like Audacity offer free tools to clean up minor background disturbances. For recurrent noise issues, consider improving your recording environment.
• Consistent Levels: Software like Auphonic can assist in automating levelling, ensuring your podcast meets industry standards.
• Export Quality: Always listen to your podcast after exporting. Compression can sometimes alter audio quality. For optimal clarity without a large file size, MP3 format with a bit rate of 128 kbps is often the go-to.

Publishing

Choose a podcast hosting platform

Your podcast deserves a reliable stage, and a good hosting platform is just that.

• Storage and Bandwidth: Depending on your episode frequency and file sizes, you'll need adequate storage. Some platforms offer unlimited hosting, while others have caps.
• Analytics: Platforms with detailed insights will help you understand listener demographics, behaviours, and preferences.
• Monetisation Features: If you're considering making money from your podcast, look for hosts with built-in ad integration or sponsorship opportunities.
• Popular Options: Libsyn, Podbean, Anchor, and Buzzsprout are a few renowned platforms.

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Create podcast artwork

Visual appeal is as essential as audio quality. Your podcast's cover art is often the first impression listeners will have.

• Resolution: Abide by the standards, typically 1400x1400 pixels minimum, but ensure your artwork looks crisp even at 3000x3000.
• Simplicity: Overly cluttered designs can repel potential listeners.
• Color Theory: Use contrasting colours for the background and text. Emotionally resonant colours can help represent your podcast's tone.
• Typography: Use bold, legible fonts. Remember, many will see your cover on small screens.
• Consistency: Your artwork should echo the theme and mood of your podcast.
• Professional Help: If design isn’t your forte, platforms like Fiverr or 99designs can connect you with freelancers. Alternatively, OneFinePlay also offers design assistance tailored to podcasters.

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Write episode descriptions

Your episode’s trailer in text form.

• SEO-Oriented: Optimise your descriptions using relevant keywords, enhancing discoverability.
• Provide Context: Listeners should know what they're about to hear. Highlight key topics, guests, or segments.
• CTAs (Call to Actions): Encourage listeners to subscribe, share, or follow related social media accounts.
• Timestamps: For longer episodes, provide timestamps for major segments or topics. It assists listeners in navigating to sections of particular interest.
• External References: Directly linking to resources, guest profiles, or tools you discuss enriches the listener experience.

Distribution

Podcast distribution is the bridge connecting your podcast to listeners worldwide. But how do you make sure your content reaches every potential fan?

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Submit your podcast to directories

Think of these as the "search engines" for podcasts. They're platforms where listeners discover, subscribe to, and download episodes.

• Apple Podcasts: Being one of the pioneer platforms, a presence here is non-negotiable. Register your podcast, ensuring you meet their specifications for artwork, descriptions, and file format.
• Spotify: As a rapidly growing platform for podcast consumption, Spotify's user-friendly interface and integration with music playlists make it a must.
• Google Podcasts, Stitcher, and More: Diversify your distribution. The broader your reach across various platforms, the more audience segments you can tap into.

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Consider publishing on YouTube

• Why YouTube?: YouTube isn't just for video. Many podcasters upload audio episodes with a static image or slideshow. It’s a massive platform with a vast user base, so it's a smart place to expand your reach.
• Optimisation for YouTube: Use keyword-rich titles and descriptions. Add timestamps for different topics covered in your episode to make it user-friendly.

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RSS Feed Management

• What's an RSS Feed?: An RSS feed automatically updates directories with new episodes. Set it up right, and it becomes a hassle-free distribution tool.
• Feed Validators: Use tools like Cast Feed Validator or Podbase to ensure your RSS feed works perfectly. A functional RSS feed ensures consistent and timely episode updates across platforms.

Promotion & Growth

Leverage social media

• Customised Content: Tailor your promotional content to fit each social platform. A captivating visual quote might be great for Instagram, while a short audio snippet might resonate more on Twitter.
• Engage and Respond: Building a community around your podcast means engaging with comments, sharing listener feedback, and showing appreciation for fan content like reviews or fan-art.
• Promotion Calendars: Create a posting schedule. Regular, timely updates about episodes or behind-the-scenes content can create anticipation and keep listeners engaged.

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Create a podcast website

• Central Hub: A dedicated website acts as a one-stop shop for everything related to your podcast – episodes, show notes, merchandise, and more.
• SEO Optimisation: A website allows for search engine optimisation. By targeting specific keywords, like "podcast promotion," you can drive organic traffic to your podcast.
• Newsletter Sign-ups: A mailing list can keep your most loyal listeners in the loop, providing them with episode reminders, exclusive content, or special offers.

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Network with other podcasters

• Collaborations: Guest appearances on other podcasts (and vice versa) can introduce your content to a new, already podcast-loving audience.
• Share Insights: Join podcasting communities online. Exchange promotional strategies, discuss challenges, and share experiences with peers.

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Engage with your audience

• Feedback Channels: Encourage listeners to leave reviews or send feedback. It not only provides valuable insights but makes listeners feel valued and involved.
• Exclusive Content: Consider offering exclusive episodes, Q&A sessions, or merchandise as a thank-you to your most devoted fans. Platforms like Patreon can facilitate this.
• Live Interactions: Host live episodes or listening parties, using platforms like Clubhouse or Discord. Real-time interaction can deepen your connection with the audience.

Post-Launch Strategies

Launching your podcast is only the beginning. The real challenge lies in maintaining momentum, building your listener base, and ultimately establishing a long-term, sustainable podcasting journey.

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Maintain momentum after launch

• Consistent Release Schedule: Stick to your episode release schedule, whether it's weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly. Consistency keeps your audience engaged and coming back for more.
• Fresh Content Ideas: Regularly brainstorm and plan out future episodes. Stay updated on industry trends, news, and listener preferences to keep your content fresh and relevant.
• Celebrate Milestones: Reached your 10th episode? Got your first 1,000 listens? Celebrate and share these milestones with your audience. It's a journey you're on together!

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Grow your podcast and reach your first 100 listeners

• Personal Outreach: In the early days, reach out to friends, family, and acquaintances. Their feedback can be invaluable, and they can help spread the word.
• Engage in Communities: Join podcasting forums, social media groups, and other online communities where you can share your episodes and get feedback.
• Podcast Swap: Collaborate with fellow podcasters to promote each other's shows. A recommendation from another podcaster can carry a lot of weight.

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Start covering costs

• Monetisation Strategies: As your audience grows, consider various monetisation options such as sponsorships, affiliate marketing, or listener donations.
• Merchandising: Create and sell podcast-related merchandise like t-shirts, mugs, or stickers. It not only provides revenue but also promotes your podcast.
• Listener Support Platforms: Platforms like Patreon or Buy Me a Coffee allow devoted listeners to support your podcast monetarily, often in exchange for bonus content or other perks.

By following this outline, you'll be able to create a successful podcast from planning to promotion. Remember to focus on creating high-quality content and engaging with your audience to ensure your podcast's growth and success.