How to start a podcast
Believe it or not, you don’t need any fancy equipment to start a podcast. All you need is a microphone, some free recording software, and a place to host your episodes.
Microphone
Any microphone will work for podcasting, but if you want clear audio, you’ll want to get a microphone designed specifically for recording audio. A good option is the Samson Go Mic, which is a portable USB microphone that’s great for beginners.
Recording Software
You can use any recording software you want, but if you’re just getting started, we recommend using Audacity. It’s a free program that’s available for both Windows and Mac computers.
Podcast Host
Once you’ve recorded your episode, you’ll need somewhere to host it. We recommend Libsyn, which is one of the most popular podcast hosting platforms. They have plans starting at $5 per month, and they offer a free Libsyn WordPress plugin that makes it easy to post your episodes on your website.
How to grow a podcast
Podcasts are having a moment. In the past year, podcast listenership has exploded, with nearly one-quarter of all Americans now tuning in to at least one show per month. The format is especially popular with young people: 32% of millennials say they listen to podcasts monthly, compared to just 16% of baby boomers.
There are a few reasons for this surge in popularity. First, podcasts are portable and convenient—you can listen to them while commuting, working out, or doing chores around the house. Second, they offer an intimate, personal experience that feels very different from traditional radio or TV. And finally, there’s the simple fact that there are now more shows than ever to choose from, covering every conceivable topic under the sun.
If you’ve been thinking about starting a podcast, there’s no better time than now. In this post, we’ll share everything you need to know about how to grow a podcast, from planning and recording your first episode to marketing your show and building an audience.
How to monetize a podcast
As the barriers to entry for starting a podcast have lowered, the number of people creating shows has exploded. In fact, according to Edison Research, the number of Americans who have listened to a podcast in the last month has grown by double digits every year since 2013.
But just because it’s easier than ever to start a podcast doesn’t mean that it’s easy to make money from one. In fact, most podcasters are still struggling to find ways to monetize their show.
There are a few different ways that podcasters can make money, and which one is right for you will depend on your goals and your audience. Here are some of the most common ways to monetize a podcast:
1) Sponsorships: This is by far the most common way that podcasts make money. A host will read a pre-written ad from a sponsor at regular intervals throughout the show. The sponsorship can be for a product, service, or even another podcast.
2) Patreon: Patreon is a platform that allows fans to support their favorite creators with monthly donations. This can be a great way to generate extra income if you have a large and engaged audience.
3) Merchandise: Selling t-shirts, stickers, and other merch is a great way to connect with your fans and generate additional revenue. This works best if you have a recognizable brand or logo.
4) Crowdfunding: If you’re looking to finance a specific project related to your podcast, crowdfunding can be a great option. Sites like Kickstarter and Indiegogo allow you to set up a campaign and collect donations from your listeners.
5) Coaching and Consulting: If you’re an expert in your field, you can use your podcast as a platform to sell coaching and consulting services. This works best if you have built up trust and credibility with your listeners.
