Podcasting is a growing trend that shows no signs of slowing down. You must have heard of I Said What I Said with Jola and FK or Tea with Tay. ISWIS is selling out live shows both at home and abroad. The podcast industry is booming, with the global podcasting market expected to reach $130.63 billion by 2030.

There’s no better time to start a podcast than now. Whether you want to share your expertise, entertain an audience, or promote your business, starting a podcast is a powerful way to connect with people. But how do you start a podcast in 2024, especially with so many tools and platforms available? This guide will take you through the essential steps to start a podcast, from picking a topic to continuous promotion. 

Why should you start a podcast?

Before diving into the guide, let’s explore why you should consider starting a podcast. Podcasts offer a unique way to reach an audience through storytelling, interviews, or discussions, making them an incredibly versatile medium. But what makes podcasting particularly appealing in 2024? 

1. Podcasting gives you an avenue to connect with your audience

Podcasting allows you to build a more personal connection with your listeners. Unlike written content, where tone can sometimes be misinterpreted, your voice, tone, and personality can shine through in a podcast. This auditory connection can create a sense of intimacy, making listeners feel as if they’re having a one-on-one conversation with you. Over time, this can lead to a loyal audience that looks forward to hearing from you regularly. 

2. Podcasting expands your reach

One of the greatest advantages of podcasting is its flexibility. Unlike video content or blogs, which require undivided attention, podcasts can be consumed while multitasking. Whether your listeners are driving, exercising, cooking, or even working, they can tune into your podcast without needing to stop what they’re doing. This accessibility allows you to reach a wider audience who might not have time to sit down and read or watch content. As podcasts are available on multiple platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts, your content can reach listeners globally, expanding your reach far beyond your immediate circle.

3. Podcasting establishes your authority in your field

If you have expertise in a particular field, a podcast can help you establish yourself as a thought leader. Regularly sharing valuable insights, industry trends, and personal experiences can position you as an authority in your niche. This credibility can lead to opportunities like speaking engagements, consulting gigs, or collaborations with other experts. Moreover, being perceived as an expert can increase your influence, allowing you to impact your audience’s opinions and decisions. A well-researched and informative podcast can become a go-to resource for your listeners, further solidifying your status as a leader in your field.

4. Podcasting gives you monetization opportunities

With the right strategy, podcasts can become a lucrative source of income. As your audience grows, you can attract sponsorships and advertisements tailored to your listeners’ interests. Brands are increasingly turning to podcasts for marketing because of the deep connection hosts have with their audiences. Additionally, you can monetize through premium content, such as offering exclusive episodes, early access, or ad-free experiences for a subscription fee. If you offer valuable content that resonates with your audience, monetization can be a natural progression in your podcasting journey.

5. Podcasting has a low entry barrier

Starting a podcast is more accessible than ever, making it an ideal medium for anyone with a message to share. Anybody can start a podcast; you don’t need a huge budget or fancy equipment to get started—just a good idea, a decent microphone, and some basic recording software. Many platforms, like Spotify, even offer free hosting services, so you can publish your podcast without upfront costs. The ease of entry means that you can focus more on content creation rather than getting bogged down by technical challenges. As your podcast grows, you can gradually invest in better equipment and more advanced tools to enhance your production quality.

How can I start a podcast? Here’s your 10-step guide

Now let’s get into the nitty-gritty of starting a podcast. Starting a podcast might seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Follow these 10 steps, and you’ll be well on your way to launching a successful podcast that resonates with your audience and stands out in the crowded podcasting landscape.

Step 1: Pick a topic

The first step in starting a podcast is choosing a topic. This might sound straightforward, but it’s one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Your podcast topic should be something you’re genuinely passionate about and know well. This passion will keep you motivated and engaged, while your expertise will make sure that your listeners find your content valuable. Think about what excites you—whether it’s sports, technology, personal development, pop culture or telling Nigeria’s woes. When picking a topic, you also want to consider your target audience. What are they interested in? What problems can you help them solve? The more specific you are with your niche definition, the better. For example, instead of a general “pop culture podcast,” you could focus on dissecting Nigerian pop culture through the eyes of artists. Think of Curiosity Made Me Ask or Is This Seat Taken? Once that’s done, you can move to the next step.

Step 2: Decide on a name, direction, and format

Once you’ve selected your topic, the next step is to choose a name, direction, and format for your podcast. Your podcast’s name should be catchy, memorable, and relevant to your topic. Avoid overly complicated names that are hard to spell or pronounce. Think of names that reflect the essence of your podcast, something that will immediately resonate with potential listeners. It’s also a good idea to do a quick search to ensure your podcast name isn’t already taken.

In this same vein, decide on the overall direction of your podcast. Will it be educational, entertaining, or a mix of both? Will you focus on interviews, storytelling, or discussions? Knowing the direction of your podcast will help you stay consistent and on track, ensuring that every episode aligns with your overall vision.

The format of your podcast is just as important as its content. Will it be interview-based, narrative, roundtable discussions, or a monologue? Will episodes be 20 minutes or an hour long? Consistency in format helps build a loyal audience, as listeners will know what to expect each time they tune in. Some podcasts thrive on short, daily episodes, while others might opt for in-depth weekly discussions. Choose a format that suits your style and your audience’s preferences.

Step 3: Create a compelling podcast description

Your podcast description is the first thing potential listeners will read, so it needs to be engaging and informative. A well-crafted description should explain what your podcast is about, who it’s for, and what listeners can expect from each episode. This is your chance to hook people in, so make it count. 

Be concise, yet descriptive, and make sure to include relevant keywords to your niche to improve searchability. A good description can make the difference between a listener hitting play or moving on to the next podcast.

READ: A Beginner’s Guide to Crafting Compelling Posts

Step 4: Make cover art and theme music

Visuals and audio branding play a significant role in attracting and retaining listeners. Your cover art is the first thing people will see, so it should be eye-catching and reflective of your podcast’s theme. Simple designs often work best—choose clear fonts, bold colours, and imagery that represents your podcast’s content. Your theme music is just as important. It sets the tone for your podcast and helps create a recognizable brand identity. It doesn’t have to be something huge so don’t overthink it. These elements are part of your brand’s first impression, so take the time to get them right.

Step 5: Set up equipment

You don’t need to break the bank to set up your podcast equipment, but investing in a few key pieces can significantly improve your sound quality. Here’s what you’ll need:

Microphone: A good quality microphone is essential for clear audio. You can start with a USB microphone like the Blue Yeti or upgrade to an XLR microphone as your podcast grows. You can also use your phone. The average iPhone has a great microphone. The microphone you choose will impact how professional your podcast sounds. 

Recording software: Audacity (free) or Adobe Audition (paid) are popular choices for recording and editing. These tools make it easy to learn how to record a podcast, even if you’re a beginner. 

As your podcast progresses you can get other things like headphones. Investing in a pair of closed-back headphones to monitor your recordings will help you avoid audio bleed and catch any issues during recording that might go unnoticed otherwise.

You can also invest in a pop filter that will reduce plosive sounds (like “p” and “b”), and a boom arm to hold your microphone in place, reducing desk noise and making your setup more ergonomic.

Step 6: Record your first episode

Now that you’re all set up, it’s time to record your first episode. This is where your podcast comes to life. Find a quiet space to minimize background noise and distractions. If you’re recording remotely, platforms like Zoom or Otter are excellent options, allowing you to record high-quality audio with guests in different locations. Knowing how to record a podcast remotely is especially important if you plan to have guests from around the world. Before you hit record, plan out your episode—whether it’s an interview or a solo show, having an outline will help you stay on track.

Step 7: Edit your first episode

Editing is where the magic happens. It’s also a bit tricky for a beginner. During editing, the goal is to remove mistakes, add intro and outro music, and ensure a smooth flow throughout the episode. Good editing can make the difference between a professional-sounding podcast and one that listeners might skip. Take your time with editing—polished episodes are more likely to keep listeners engaged and coming back for more. Ask your friends and colleagues for feedback before moving to the next step. 

Step 8: Set up a hosting platform

Your podcast needs a home, and that’s where a hosting platform comes in. Hosting platforms store your audio files and distribute them to podcast directories like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. Some popular podcast hosting platforms include:

Buzzsprout: User-friendly with great analytics.

Podbean: Offers monetization options and unlimited storage.

When choosing a platform, consider your needs and budget. Some platforms offer free plans, making it easier for you to learn how to start a podcast for free. A good hosting platform will also provide you with valuable insights into your audience’s behaviour, helping you refine your content strategy. Spotify, which was formerly Anchor, is a great start at this stage. 

Step 9: Launch your podcast

With everything set up, you’re ready to launch your podcast. This is an exciting moment, but it’s important to have a launch plan in place. Promote your podcast on social media, reach out to friends and family, and submit your podcast to directories. Tease your podcast by posting snippets, quotes and the likes. The first few episodes are important for building momentum, so consider releasing two or three episodes at once to give new listeners more content to enjoy. A strong launch can set the tone for your podcast’s success and help you attract your first wave of listeners.

Step 10: Continuous promotion

Podcasting doesn’t end with launching—you need to continuously promote your show to grow your audience. Here are some strategies for continuous promotion:

• Share new episodes, quotes, and behind-the-scenes content on platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. Use these platforms to engage with your audience and encourage them to share your podcast with others.

• Appear on other podcasts in your niche to reach a broader audience or their videos. Cross-promotion with other podcasters can introduce your show to new listeners who are already interested in your topic.

• Respond to listener feedback, and consider creating a community around your podcast. Whether it’s through a Facebook group, the comment section on Spotify, or a mailing list, building a community can deepen your connection with listeners and keep them coming back.

Promotion is key to sustaining and growing your podcast over time. Consistency in releasing new episodes and engaging with your audience will help build a loyal listener base. Remember, podcasting is a long game. 

FAQs about podcasting

How can I start a podcast for free?

Starting a podcast for free is possible with tools like Spotify, which offers free hosting, and Audacity, which is free recording and editing software. You can also use free stock music for your theme.

How can I record a podcast remotely?

You can record a podcast remotely using platforms like Zoom or Otter, which allow high-quality audio and video recording over the internet.

Where can I record a podcast?

You can record a podcast anywhere quiet, like your room, a home office or a rented studio. If you need a professional setup, many cities have podcast studios for rent.

How can I record a video podcast?

To record a video podcast, you’ll need a camera, lighting, and video editing software. You can use platforms like Riverside.fm or record your video podcast over Zoom for a more accessible option.

How can I record a podcast over Zoom?

Recording a podcast over Zoom is straightforward—simply start a Zoom meeting, hit record, and save the file after the session. You can then edit the audio and video using your preferred software.

What podcast recording platforms should I use?

Popular podcast recording platforms include Audacity, Adobe Audition, and GarageBand. Choose one based on your budget and the features you need.

How do I monetize my podcast?

You can monetize your podcast through sponsorships, ads, listener donations, and offering premium content. As your podcast grows, these opportunities will become more viable.

How often should I release episodes?

Consistency is key. Whether it’s weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly, choose a schedule that you can maintain long-term. Regular releases help build and keep an audience.

Do I need expensive equipment to start?

No, you don’t need expensive equipment to start a podcast. A good USB microphone, free recording software, and a quiet room are all you need to get started.

Starting a podcast in 2024 is an exciting journey that offers endless possibilities for creativity, connection, and even income. So pick up your microphone and start sharing your voice with the world.