Podcasting 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Starting Your Own Show

Starting a podcast can seem like navigating through an unknown wilderness for beginners. But fear not! Whether you’re itching to share your passions, and opinions or chat about life, I’ve got you covered.

In the spirit of inclusivity and a dash of humour, let’s break down the process into manageable chunks, shall we? So, grab your favourite cuppa, and let’s embark on this podcasting journey together.

Step 1: The Blueprint of Your Podcasting Empire

Let’s talk about planning before you even think about microphones or editing software. Your podcast needs a solid foundation, and that means understanding the who, what, and why:

• Who is your podcast for? Picture your listener. Maybe they’re fellow lifestyle enthusiasts, eager to learn and laugh along with you.
• What will your podcast cover? In my case, that might be veganism, digital marketing, or perhaps the joys and jumbles of parenting.
• Why are you starting this podcast? Whether to educate, entertain, or inspire, your purpose will be your guiding light.

Step 2: The Tools of the Trade

Here comes the fun part – gear and software! No need to break the bank; start simple:

• Microphone: A good quality USB microphone is a great start. Brands like Audio-Technica and Blue Yeti have options that won’t leave your wallet weeping. See the review below for a great option.
• Headphones: To ensure your sound is crisp and clear, invest in a decent pair of headphones.
• Recording & Editing Software: Audacity is a free, user-friendly option for beginners, while Adobe Audition is a step up for those ready to invest a bit more.
• Podcast Hosting: Platforms like Anchor or Buzzsprout offer hosting services that distribute your podcast to all the major platforms (think Spotify, and Apple Podcasts).

Step 3: Crafting Your Episode

With your tools at the ready, it’s time to craft your first episode. Here’s a simple structure to get you started:

• Introduction: A warm, inviting start. Introduce yourself and what your episode will cover.
• Main Content: Dive into your topic. This is where your research and passion shine. Don’t forget to speak like you’re chatting with a friend – keep it light, insightful, and inclusive.
• Guest Interview (Optional): Bringing in an expert or fellow enthusiast can add value and variety to your podcast.
• Conclusion: Summarise the key points discussed and tease what’s coming up in your next episode.
• Call to Action: Encourage your listeners to subscribe, leave a review, or follow you on social media.

Step 4: The Finishing Touches

Editing is where the magic happens. Remove any awkward pauses, stumbles, or background noises. Add in some music for the intro and outro to give your podcast a professional touch. Remember, practice makes perfect. Your first episode might not be flawless, but it’s the start of something wonderful.

Step 5: Spread the Word

Congratulations, you’ve launched your podcast! Now, get the word out. Use your social media channels, engage with your audience, and don’t shy away from asking listeners to share your podcast. Remember, building a community takes time, but with consistency and quality content, your audience will grow.

A review: Joby Wavo POD

I was lucky enough to have been approached by Joby, who offered me the chance to pick out and review one of their range of Wavo microphones.

There are options to suit all needs; vloggers and interviewers looking for an on-the-go compact mic that doesn’t compromise on professional sound quality with wireless solutions and streamers, gamers, and podcasters looking for unmatched quality in a light-as-air design. I decided to try out the Joby Wavo POD as an introduction to podcasting.

The Joby Wavo POD is a versatile microphone designed specifically for podcasters, streamers, and content creators who require high-quality audio recording capabilities. Its design and features cater to those who need a reliable, easy-to-use microphone for their desktop setup.

It is available on its own or as part of the Wavo POD streamer kit where it is matched with a Wavo™ Boom Arm; a professional, high-quality arm with steady positioning, clean design and a unique cup holder for enjoyable and practical streaming and filming.

Here are some key features and benefits of the Wavo POD:

Key Features:

– Plug-and-Play: The Wavo POD is a USB microphone, making it extremely convenient for users to connect directly to their PCs or Macs without the need for additional audio interfaces or complicated setup processes.

– Cardioid Pickup Pattern: It features a cardioid pickup pattern, which is ideal for podcasting and streaming. This pattern helps to focus on sound coming from in front of the microphone while minimising background noise from the sides and rear, ensuring that your voice is captured clearly.

– 24-Bit Audio Quality: The microphone offers high-resolution 24-bit audio recording capabilities, ensuring that your recordings are of professional quality with clear, crisp sound.

– Headphone Output: There’s a built-in headphone jack that allows for real-time audio monitoring. This feature ensures that you can listen to what you’re recording live, without latency, which is crucial for adjusting levels and ensuring your audio quality is up to par.

– Gain Control & Mute Button: The Wavo POD comes equipped with easy-to-use controls, including a gain control knob to adjust the input level of the microphone and a mute button for instant silence. This is especially useful for live streaming or recording in environments where unexpected noise can occur.

– Versatile Mounting Options: It includes a desktop stand for easy placement on any flat surface, but it’s also compatible with other mounting options, such as the Wavo Boom, making it adaptable to different recording setups and preferences.

– Durable Design: Joby is known for creating durable, high-quality products, and the Wavo POD is no exception. It’s built to withstand the rigours of frequent use, making it a solid investment for content creators.

The Wavo POD is particularly well-suited for:

– Podcasting: Its easy setup and excellent sound quality make it an excellent choice for podcasters at any level.

– Streaming: Streamers will appreciate the cardioid pattern that focuses on the voice and the real-time monitoring capabilities.

– Voice-Overs and Narrations: The clear audio capture makes it a good choice for recording voice-overs for videos or narrations for audiobooks and other projects.

Overall, the Joby Wavo POD offers a blend of quality, convenience, and versatility, making it a popular choice among content creators looking for a reliable microphone that delivers professional-grade audio without requiring a professional studio setup.

5 Essential Resources for Aspiring Podcasters

To keep the learning going, here are five resources that will help you deepen your podcasting knowledge:

1. Websites: Transom.org – A treasure trove of tools, techniques, and stories to inspire anyone in the audio storytelling field.

2. Podcasts: The Podcast Host Academy – Offers not just insightful podcast episodes but also courses and resources for all levels.

3. YouTube Channels: Podcastage – Your go-to for gear reviews, how-tos, and everything you need to know about podcasting equipment.

4. Books: Out on the Wire by Jessica Abel – An engaging look into the world of radio storytelling and podcasting, perfect for those who prefer a narrative approach to learning.

5. Online Communities: r/podcasting on Reddit – A vibrant community where you can ask questions, share experiences, and connect with fellow podcasters.

Podcasting is a journey, one that allows you to share your passions and stories with the world. Whether you’re dissecting the latest trends in digital marketing, sharing tips on vegan cooking, or just laughing at the trials of parenting, each episode you produce adds to the rich tapestry of the podcasting community. So, dive in, keep it authentic, and enjoy the ride. Who knows where your voice will take you?