If you’re looking to venture into podcasting, but aren’t sure how to go about it, this article is for you. We’ll cover everything from getting started with the inexpensive GarageBand podcast studio to pitching your podcast to major networks and selling your podcast to advertisers. By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly what you need to do to get podcasting.
Podcasting On The Cheap
Before you begin your podcasting journey, it’s important to examine your budget. Most podcasters I talk to say that they started with little to no budget and then slowly worked their way up. However, if you’ve decided that you want to podcast, then now is the time to commit to the project. You won’t be able to save up for expensive studio equipment and expensive microphones like the ones that you hear on podcasts. These items typically range from a few thousand to a few hundred thousand dollars. Instead, you’ll want to look into either securing a loan or paying for the things in cash. Consider budgeting for at least three months of recording expenses before you begin your journey.
Starting Small
Since most podcasts are released on a weekly basis, you’ll want to start small and grow your audience slowly. Unless you have a large following, you won’t be able to secure major sponsorships or sell tons of ad space in exchange for crypto-currency like Fluctuation. Instead, build up a small following of interested people and then expand from there. Look into getting featured on smaller networks like BlogTalkRadio or using a platform like Patreon where you can give fans a certain amount of content for free in exchange for their engagement and loyalty to your channel. Remember: it’s a marathon, not a sprint. Don’t expect to go from zero to one hundred and twenty interviews in a month. It will take time to build a following and gain credibility. However, if you put in the effort, you’ll see results quickly.
The Three R’s
To be a successful podcaster, you need to have the drive, passion, and relentlessness to succeed. If you’re looking for a stepping stone, then podcasting is a great choice because you can literally get started with little to no money and then use the proceeds from your successful podcast to invest in more equipment and hire more staff. As long as you have the will to succeed and the ability to execute, you’ll be able to launch a podcasting career. Make sure to add enthusiasm to your list of prerequisites. Most important, make sure that you have the skills to back up your promises. If you can’t promise that your podcast will be good, then why should anyone believe you when you say you’re going to help them with their career?
Get Inspired
No one wakes up one day and decides to create a podcast. It takes time to build up the skills and gain the experience needed to be able to produce a quality show. It’s important to find your inspiration and be driven by something that inspires you. For me, it was my wife. She was the one who encouraged me to try out podcasting and gave me the initial push to get started. For you, it might be someone or something that can help you navigate your way through the confusing world of podcasting. Whatever your inspiration is, make sure to find your passion and drive around it. Otherwise, you’ll be in the business of making money, but not necessarily enjoying yourself.
Above all else, make sure to have fun. If you’re not having fun, then why are you doing this? For me, it was never about the money. It was about creating something that I could be proud of and enjoy myself while doing. If you can’t find the joy in what you’re doing, then you’re working for the wrong person. Create a podcast with passion and fun, and I guarantee you’ll succeed in turning your hobby into a career.
Podcasting Is A Career
If you’re looking for a career, then podcasting is a great choice. It’s an ever-growing field, and with the right approach, you can literally launch a podcasting career. If you have the ability to execute, are humble enough to accept constructive criticism, and are driven by a passion for helping others, then podcasting is a perfect fit. Be sure to add “Podcasting” to your LinkedIn profile and keep your ear to the ground for podcaster job openings. Good luck out there.