These days, everyone has their own podcast. One of the more recent platforms for information and entertainment, you can now find a podcast for practically any topic or subject imaginable. But this doesn’t mean just anyone can buy a microphone and get started sharing their ideas. To have a podcast that will really take off, there are some things you should consider first.
From choosing the right equipment, installing felt wall tiles to control the sound in your space, and knowing what to talk about, a bit of prep work early on can make a big impact. But how do you know exactly what to tackle first? Here, we’re taking a closer look at a few things you’ll definitely want to check off your list before recording that first podcast episode.
6 Things to Do Before Starting Your Own Podcast
Thinking about starting your own podcast? Before you plug in your microphone and dive in, there are a few things to take care of first. Check out our list of things to tackle before starting your own podcast. A little prep work early on can make a huge difference.
- Know your topic: this might seem obvious, but you certainly want to know what you’re talking about on your podcast. With an unlimited supply of topics, it can be tricky to know exactly what you want to talk about. But once you do pick your topic, make sure you know it inside and out. Most listeners will be able to spot a podcast host who doesn’t really know the subject at hand. So, if you don’t want to turn away your listeners immediately, make sure you do your research first.
- Pick the right co-host: many of the most popular podcasts are hosted by a pair. Why is this? The audio format makes a conversation feel natural and fitting for this platform. Of course, this doesn’t mean you have to have a co-host, but if you do, make sure you pick the right one. It can help to have a subject-matter expert as your co-host or perhaps someone who can naturally complement your areas of expertise. But at the end of the day, what most people are looking for is a natural connection. When picking your co-host, going with a friend or family member is a great way to get started with someone you already know and can quickly strike up an entertaining conversation.
- Choose your format: some of the most popular podcasts out there are just ten to fifteen minutes long. But on the other hand, some may run for hours. When it comes to choosing the format for your podcast, there’s no “right” way to do it, but think about your audience and your message. Does the subject at hand require a full hour dedicated to it? Or is the message easy to digest in just ten to twenty minutes?
- Soundproof your space: as you might expect, sound quality is everything when it comes to recording your own podcast. But this doesn’t mean you need a whole studio dedicated to your recording. Most podcast hosts simply record at home. But depending on your space, it may be a challenge to get the best sound quality. While most of us don’t have the means to soundproof the recording space completely, there are some easier options. One way to improve the sound quality in your space is to install felt wall tiles. These colorful tiles work to absorb excess sound waves, which will improve the sound quality in your recording area.
- Use the right equipment: after you improve the sound quality in your space, it’s time to focus on the equipment for your podcast. While, technically, you could record your podcast with just your computer and the microphone on it, this probably won’t result in the best quality. Most podcast pros will invest in a high-quality microphone so that their message can be heard loud and clear. This initial investment will definitely pay off in the long run. You also may want to purchase software that will allow you to edit and publish your audio file. There are several free options, like Garage Band, that can make the editing process a breeze.
- Get started: after you’ve purchased your microphone, downloaded some editing software, and soundproofed your space, it’s time to dive in. It can feel a little overwhelming to get started, but at the end of the day, you simply need to get started and record your first episode. Don’t worry about making the first recording perfect. With your editing software, you can clean it up so that you’ll end up with a great podcast to share with your friends and family.
Conclusion – 6 Things to Do Before Starting Your Own Podcast
In recent years, podcasts have simply exploded in popularity. With podcasts dedicated to pretty much any topic imaginable, it’s easy to find one suited to your tastes. Whether for education or entertainment, podcasts are a great way to connect with the world around you. And with just a microphone and a computer, anyone can get started with their podcast.
But this doesn’t mean you should just dive into your podcast without some careful planning and prep work. While there are countless podcasts out there, the ones that really stand out have a few things in common. The best podcasts, simply enough, know what they’re talking about. They also tend to have co-hosts who work well together and share a natural connection.
Additionally, ensure you invest in quality equipment so the world can hear every word you say. To help improve the sound quality, start with the walls in your space. Hanging up felt wall tiles is an easy and affordable way to reduce unwanted noise so that each word is heard loud and clear. With a good microphone and passion for your subject, you’ll be ready to get started with your own podcast to share with the world.
