How to Have a Podcast: A Guide

Podcasts produce profound thoughts in people. 41 percent of Americans aged 12 and older listen to a podcast at least once per month.

One thought that is common amongst listeners is how to have a podcast. Anyone can start their own, but you need more than a microphone to start a successful one.

What is a podcast, and where should you go to research them? What is the game plan you should adopt? How should you speak while you are on the air?

Answer these questions and you can become a thought leader for millions of people. Here is your quick guide.

Listen to Top Podcasts

You should get a good understanding of podcasts before you start to make one. Learn about how to listen to podcasts. Get a good pair of earphones and find a place where you can focus on what is being said.

Podcasts cover all topics. You can find ones for the arts and sciences. If you are planning a business-to-business podcast, read the best practices for b2b podcasting.

Top podcasts assume several different formats. Many are interview-heavy, with the hosts talking to important people about their lives. Others recap the news or offer reviews of movies and artistic works.

Take notes on what you like and what you don’t like. Once you’ve picked a format, consider a topic you want to focus on. It should be one that you have background knowledge of, though you don’t need to be an expert in it.

Make a Plan for Your First Episode

Your first episode should give listeners a preview of what to expect. If you are running a movie review podcast, you should review a movie right off the bat. You don’t have to write a word-for-word script, but outline what your approach will be.

Figure out a unique perspective that you can offer. You may be giving a negative review of a beloved classic. You may have experience in making movies, and now you want to try critiquing them.

You can leave some room for spontaneity. If you have a co-host, you two should engage in some back-and-forth.

Speak Naturally

You don’t have to change the sound of your voice or the words you use. Talk as you do when you speak with friends or family members.

When you take notes, write the way that you talk. Audience members can tell when someone is using words that they are unfamiliar with.

This doesn’t mean that you can’t use vocal techniques. If you want to point out that something is ridiculous, you can raise your voice a little. But adopt the techniques that you use in your day-to-day life.

Edit the podcast by listening to the audio closely. Cut out any long pauses or awkward remarks. If you don’t have any experience with editing or simply don’t have time to do it alone, you can always opt for podcast production services.

How to Have a Podcast

You can learn how to have a podcast. You should put in your hours listening to the best ones. Decide on a format and subject matter that you want to pursue.

Then write out an outline for your very first episode. By the end of it, the audience should understand that you have an interesting perspective they can’t find elsewhere.

Speak with your own voice and words. Modulate your voice when appropriate, but be yourself throughout the recording.

Podcasting is just one exciting tech trend. Find out more by following our coverage.