How to make a podcast, a beginner's guide

How to Create and distribute a podcast quickly and cheaply

Step 1: Plan Your Podcast

• Choose a Topic: Select a subject you are passionate about and that has an audience.

• Define Your Format: Decide on the structure (interviews, solo episodes, roundtable discussions, etc. -in our case voice over actors in home studios and cosy open frank friend chat).

• Set a Schedule: Determine how often you will release episodes (weekly, bi-weekly, etc.).

Step 2: Gather Your Equipment

• Microphone: Use a USB microphone for decent quality (e.g., Blue Snowball or Audio-Technica ATR2100).

• Headphones: Get a pair of closed-back headphones to monitor audio.

• Recording Software: Use free software like Audacity or GarageBand for recording and editing.

Step 3: Record Your Episode

• Prepare a Script or Outline: Have a clear plan for your episode content.

• Choose a Quiet Space: Find a location with minimal background noise - because we were recording 'radio' level drama, we used full professional recording booths and professional actors, but this isn't necessary for most chat style podcasts these days.

• Record Your Audio: Use your software to record, ensuring clear and high-quality sound.

Step 4: Edit Your Podcast

• Cut Unnecessary Parts: Remove long pauses, mistakes, or irrelevant content.

• Add Music and Effects: Use royalty-free music for intro/outro segments.

• Export Your File: Save your final edit in a common audio format (e.g., MP3).

Step 5: Host Your Podcast

• Choose a Podcast Hosting Platform: Use affordable options like Anchor, Podbean, or Buzzsprout (we used Podbean and select distribution platforms from there).

• Upload Your Episode: Follow the platform's instructions to upload your audio file.

• Create Show Notes: Write a brief description and include links to resources mentioned in the episode.

Step 6: Distribute Your Podcast

• Submit to Directories: Distribute your podcast to platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. Apple like to take their time and be much more pikcy about things like cover design than other platforms so build in some time for that - we did an 'intro' episode - or 'episode zero' to get this pre-approved)

• Promote on Social Media: Share your episodes on platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook - we set up a community page on Facebook and involved our cast in sharing on Insta, Facebook and Linked in.

• Engage with Your Audience: Encourage listeners to leave reviews and feedback to build community. We have plans to launch a separate community called the 'Hot Flash Hub' with resident experts and advice and writers workshops

Step 7: Monitor and Improve

• Track Your Analytics: Use your hosting platform’s analytics to understand listener behaviour.

• Solicit Feedback: Ask your audience for suggestions on topics or improvements - keep them involved and engaged.

• Refine Your Content: Continuously improve based on feedback and analytics - who knows people might want more practical advice from a future series or less chat and more drama - we'll follow where the interest is.

Conclusion

Creating and distributing a podcast can be done quickly and affordably by following these steps. Focus on delivering quality content and engaging with your audience to grow your podcast over time.