So, you have decided to start a podcast and become the next ‘Joe Rogan’? FUN FACT did you know as of 2021, marketers in the US spent a whopping $1.33 billion on podcast ads and more than 8 out of 10 podcast listeners spend an average of 7 hrs. per week tuned in to a podcast?
While there are millions of blogs started every year, last year there were only 25,000 new podcasts launched. But the listeners and number of episode downloads continue to increase significantly each year.
So what does this mean for you?
Right now, you have a chance to master and dominate a medium that is still in it’s toddler stages and growing at a rapid rate. It’s like starting a blog back in 2008-2010 era. Now is the time!
Starting a podcast from scratch is exciting if you have a story, passion and knowledge to share, it’s also a way to win the hearts of a loyal audience. With the right strategies and tools, you can create a successful podcast that stands out from the crowd.
It’s not difficult to start a podcast on your own. Also, contrary to general belief you don’t need to spend a fortune to launch or start a successful podcast. In this article, we will walk you through the steps to start a successful podcast for free or on a budget.
Make sure you read to the very end to find out our best strategies for starters on how to start a podcast with no audience.
1. Choose a Niche and Name for Your Podcast
We know this might sound like yet another cliche, because if you are reading this article on how to start a podcast, you probably already know what your niche should be. If you don’t, you should choose one before starting a podcast.
When selecting a niche for your podcast, go with a topic that you are knowledgeable or passionate about and one that has a potential audience. Consider what subjects excite you and what information you can offer that will resonate with listeners. Additionally, pick a catchy and memorable name for your podcast that reflects the essence of your content.
2. Get a microphone and recording software.
Good audio quality is crucial for a successful podcast. Thankfully, you don’t need to invest heavily in expensive equipment. For starters get budget-friendly USB microphones that offer decent sound quality. Some well-liked options include the Samson Q2U and the Audio-Technica ATR2100x.
In terms of recording software, Audacity, GarageBand, Achour or Podops are reliable and free options that provide essential features for editing and post-production. They are user-friendly and suitable for beginners. Remember, the key is to get started with what you have and progressively upgrade as your podcast grows.
If you’re looking for affordable deals on podcast software’s, hosting platforms, masterclass or tutorials check out AppSumo. As an online marketplace, they often offer lifetime access to premium platforms at discounted prices.
3. Find a podcast hosting platform.
A podcast hosting platform is where your episodes will be stored and distributed. These platforms help with the, monetization, management, analytics and distribution of your podcast to various directories like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more, look for platforms that offer free or affordable plans suitable for beginners. Anchor is a popular choice that provides a comprehensive range of hosting features at no cost.
We recommend you check out Podbean, which offers a free tier with limited storage a more advanced paid plans for your demanding podcasting needs as you grow.
Podbean and similar options provide easy integration with popular podcast directories and monetization opportunities. Research different hosting platforms to find one that aligns with your budget and requirements.
4. Create your podcast artwork and intro music.
An Eye-catching artwork and a captivating intro sound can make a significant impact on attracting listeners to your podcast. You don’t need to learn graphics design or pay to get beautiful artworks for you Podcast.
Use Canva is a user-friendly and free design tool that allows you to create professional-looking podcast artwork using pre-designed templates and customizable elements.
For intro music, explore royalty-free music libraries such as Epidemic Sound, AudioJungle or SoundStripe. These platforms offer a wide selection of high-quality music tracks suitable for podcast intros. Choose a track that matches the tone and style of your show to create a memorable listening experience.
5. Record and edit your first episode.
Prepare your content by creating a script or outline to ensure a structured and engaging podcast. Find a quiet recording space and use a pop filter to minimize unwanted noises. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t worry if your early recordings aren’t flawless.
After recording, utilize editing software like Audacity or GarageBand to refine your episodes. Edit out any mistakes or pauses, enhance audio quality, and add intros, outros, and transitions. Maintain a balance between professional editing and maintaining an authentic and conversational style.
Publish and promote your podcast.
Once your episodes are polished and ready, it’s time to publish and promote your podcast. Submit your podcast to popular directories like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and Stitcher. These platforms have extensive audiences and can significantly increase your reach.
To promote your podcast effectively, leverage social media platforms to engage with potential listeners. Create dedicated accounts for your podcast and
That’s it! You have created your first podcast episode on a budget. Now you can repeat the process and grow your podcast audience and income. If you want to learn more about how to start a podcast on a budget, check out my affiliate link below for some amazing deals on podcast hosting platforms from AppSumo.