Things to consider when podcasting

Podcasting is a fun and entertaining solution to make your voice heard. It’s nice if you already have ideas about the podcast that you want to make. However, before diving into podcasting, dedicate time to go through fundamental podcasting attributes. We will discuss essential steps and things to consider when podcasting, to help you start your …

June 24, 2021

things to consider when podcasting

Podcasting is a fun and entertaining solution to make your voice heard. It’s nice if you already have ideas about the podcast that you want to make. However, before diving into podcasting, dedicate time to go through fundamental podcasting attributes. We will discuss essential steps and things to consider when podcasting, to help you start your podcast on the right foot.

Create a podcast concept

Developing a concept is like building a skeleton of your final product, which in this case, is your podcast. The following are the fundamental issues you should decide before moving to further stages of podcast development.

writing things to consider when podcasting

Set podcast goals: First of all, think about why you want to start a podcast? Setting out your “why” will add practicality to your imaginary vision. Some more common goals are to generate leads and raise awareness for a business, to become a well-known expert in your field, to spread important messages, or just to have fun. 

However, before starting, make sure that your primary goal is not getting famous or rich through your podcast. Instead, focus on passion and sharing. 

Choose a focus: The choices of podcast topics are endless . You should choose a podcast theme depending on your concept and goal. Although there are no limitations, there are cases when you should apply some reasoning. For example, if your channel is about cooking and food, you better think twice (or more) about airing an episode on cars. On the other hand, if the focus of your channel is entertainment, it might be alright to cover different topics. 

Build a brand: Think of your podcast as your brand. It should have several brand elements, such as name, theme sounds or music, slogan and cover photo. The most crucial element is the name. Make it catchy, attractive and specific. Most importantly, be sure that the name is identifiable with the scope of your show. Your potential audience should understand the general theme of your podcast from your name. Do not complicate it.

 Choose a format

After building your podcast concept, you should start analyzing the best-fitted format for your show. Try to think about the style and structure of your podcast. Are you going to lecture on the topics of your expertise? Do you think about having a co-host and having less scripted discussions? There is no right or wrong podcast format. Some of the most common formats are the following:

  • Interviews, 
  • Non-fiction series,
  • Educational discussions,
  • Fiction,
  • News.

Podcast length

Don’t let anyone tell you how much the optimal podcast length is. There are no rules on that. Whether your podcast should last 10 minutes or 2.5 hours is totally up to you. The critical point is to make sure that each minute delivers value. Consider thoroughly editing your episodes. Remove boring parts and long-winded questions.

Stick to the principle of “quality over quantity.”

Publishing schedule

The publishing frequency is the next formatting part to consider. There are no limitations on this. However, depending on your goal, the recommended scheduling strategy may differ. For example, if you want to build a community, you should focus on keeping in touch with your audience. It means that you should consider going to the air once a week. On the other hand, if you wanted to discuss some specific educational content or read fiction, it might be alright to produce several episodes and then take a break. 

Get equipped with software

The third step towards creating a podcast is the purchase of recording and editing equipment. The high quality of your sound and recording would be another indicator of professionalism. Unless it is totally affordable for you, avoid investing in extra expensive professional equipment in the early stage of your podcasting. You can start with semi-professional equipment or even consider recording with your smartphone. 

If you are confused about what equipment you might need, just stick to the essentials. Get a microphone with a holder. To  reduce extra noises and wind effects, consider buying foam for the mic.

A smarter choice is to avoid big investments on equipment. Start by using the modern podcasting software which will replace a full room of recording and audio editing equipment for you. There are many budget-friendly editing software options, such as Podcastle, that will allow you to improve the sound and quality of your recording.

Record an episode

things to consider when recording a podcast

Source: Forbes 

As a beginner, focus on motivation and determination when working on your podcasts. It is entirely alright to fail or underperform on the first episodes. You will learn by doing. Do not give up.

Write an outlet: Improvisation can be a huge barrier for a beginner podcaster. However, there is no need to go to the opposite extreme of writing down every single word of your speech. Simply plan and list down the key points that you are planning to cover and stick to them.

Pick-up place: As obvious as it may sound, the room’s acoustics is half of the quality. For example, small rooms create echoes which are not something you want in your recording. Consider working in large and quiet rooms.

Start recording: Set up your equipment, test, and start recording. Do not get embarrassed if there are mistakes or moments of silence. Those issues can be edited. To avoid dryness of voice, hold a glass of water nearby. 

Conclusion

As a new to-be podcaster, you might be super excited and impatient to start recording your first few episodes. Hold on to that excitement and motivation, but do not hurry too much. The stage of planning should not be underestimated. With well-thought and researched planning and podcast branding, you will start from a better point and will save much time later. So, consider covering the essential issues discussed above in this article. 

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