How To Start A Podcast in 2024? + A Beginner Friendly Checklist

Imagine this: You’re like Era, someone who adores the world of podcasts, feeling that incredible connection to the passion and depth of content that podcasters bring to their listeners. And just like Era, you’ve been hit by a brilliant idea – you want to start your own podcast. Here’s the burning question: How to start a podcast?

If you’re nodding your head in agreement, feeling overwhelmed by the sheer volume of information out there, don’t worry – we’ve got your back, just like we always do for every budding podcaster. 

In this blog, we’ve put together a simple yet comprehensive guide on how to start a podcast, complete with a handy checklist to ensure your podcast launch is set up for success. 

Grab your favorite cup of coffee, a pen, a notebook, and let’s explore every aspect of embarking on your podcasting journey.

What is A Podcast – Simplified?

Podcasts, the delightful gems of the digital world, are like your favorite TV shows, but for your ears. They’re audio shows and stories, accessible on the internet, delivering a series of captivating content pieces, all centered around a specific idea, topic, or theme.

Picture this: You’re tuning in to an engaging conversation between a host and a guest, or perhaps you’re immersing yourself in a thought-provoking monologue by a solo speaker. 

These digital audio treasures are easily downloadable to your mobile device, allowing you to savor them at your convenience, no matter where you are. 

In a nutshell, podcasts bring a world of captivating content right to your ears, all at your fingertips. 

If you also want to share something to the world, podcasting is the way to go. Let’s start with the first step of how to start a podcast – pre-launch of your podcast.

Pre-Launch: Where the Magic Begins

Many think that the first step to how to start a podcast is recording an episode and shooting it out but it’s so much more. The pre-launch phase is where the podcasting adventure takes shape. It’s the exhilarating stage where you brainstorm what you want to create and how you plan to bring it to life. 

This pivotal phase can be divided into two key aspects: the creative and the technical. Let’s delve into both of these elements to lay a strong foundation for your podcast.

Creative – Embracing Your Creative Side

The creative side of podcasting can be a bit daunting for many, while others thrive in this arena. It’s an area that sparks both excitement and anxiety. But worry not, we’ve got your back. 

As we journey through this creative landscape, we’re here to address any questions or uncertainties you might have related to the creative aspect of how to start a podcast. 

So, let’s dive in and unlock your podcast’s creative potential.

Topic Dilemma 

If you’re feeling stuck when it comes to selecting your podcasting topic, fret not; we’ve got your back. Here are some quick tips to help you discover your podcasting groove:

1. Passion Over Popularity: Opt for a topic you’re genuinely passionate about, rather than chasing what’s trending. Authentic interest always outshines fierce competition.
2. Talkability Test: Can you talk about your chosen topic endlessly? Your podcast theme should be something you’re eager to discuss without running out of steam.
3. Embrace the Niche: Differentiate yourself by delving into a unique aspect or targeting a smaller, passionate audience within a broader subject area.
4. Seasonal Strategy: If your heart beats for seasonal topics, maintain consistency even during the off-season. Many podcasts tend to fade during these times, offering you an opportunity to shine.

Need some inspiration? Consider these engaging topics for your podcast journey:

• True Crime
• Comedy
• Self-Improvement
• Technology
• Interviews
• Health and Wellness
• Business and Entrepreneurship
• Pop Culture Commentary

So, whether you’re drawn to solving mysteries, making people laugh, or helping others become the best versions of themselves, there’s a podcast topic waiting for your unique perspective.

Content Research, Planning, and Ideation

Creating captivating content is where the real magic of podcasting happens. Just like a master chef, your podcast episodes are like a sumptuous feast. Let’s sprinkle some enchanting ingredients to ensure your content is truly delectable.

Competitor Alchemy: The journey begins with a deep dive into what your fellow podcasters are serving up. What’s sizzling, and where do you spot gaps in the culinary landscape? And if there are no gaps, worry not! You’re the master chef here, and you can whip up a creative twist that leaves your audience craving for more.

To kickstart your competitor analysis, use this Google Sheet to uncover hidden treasures:

• Top Podcasts in Your Niche
• Hidden Gem Podcasts with Incredible Content
• Non-Podcast Yet Popular Gems
• Sought-After Topics
• Key Dates in Your Niche
• Notable Events in Your Niche
• Influential Personalities in Your Niche

As you compile this treasure trove, you’ll start noticing trends. Keep track of your insights, including keywords, trending themes, hot topics, popular hashtags, content approaches that worked, and topics that have been overdone under “Insights From Primary Research” for each topic.

Unique Ingredients: Now, let’s add a sprinkle of uniqueness! Engage with your family and friends to uncover their burning questions related to your niche.

If, for example, you’re exploring the world of cryptocurrency, ask them what puzzles them. If you unearth a question that’s yet to find its answer, consider it your secret sauce. It’s your ticket to crafting content that truly stands out.

The Great Topic Hunt: For a treasure trove of topics, delve into these magical websites:

• Trends24
• Google Trends
• Answer The Public
• Learn-Anything.xyz
• Google Question Hub
• AlsoAsked.com
• QuestionDB
• Quora

Now that you have a treasure chest of captivating topics, it’s time to mix your content potion. Divide your episodes into three categories:

• Evergreen Content (timeless classics)
• Trending Content (buzz-worthy gems)
• Answer-Based Content (solving those burning questions)

Arrange your content sequence like a grand symphony, and get ready to hit the record. Stick to your schedule (we’ll discuss this later, don’t worry), and voilà! You’ve conjured an organized and powerful content strategy that will keep your listeners coming back for more.

Finding Your Podcast Format

Before you embark on your podcasting journey, one of the first steps is to determine the format that best suits your vision. Podcasts come in a delightful array of formats, each with its unique charm. Let’s explore the creative possibilities, and remember, your choice should empower your podcasting dreams.

• The Solo Podcast: 

In the realm of podcasting, the solo podcast is like a one-person show. It’s perfect for individuals with a wealth of expertise to share. Imagine yourself as the star of the stage, captivating your audience with your knowledge and insights.

• The Interview Show:

The interview show is a wonderful choice if you thrive on conversations. Instead of shouldering the entire content creation burden, you bring in a new guest each week, allowing for a diverse array of topics and perspectives. It’s an engaging way to share knowledge and ideas.

• The Panel Show:

Picture a host and a rotating cast of guests, each offering fresh outlooks and perspectives. The panel show breathes life into your podcast with dynamic conversations, making it a vibrant and interactive experience for your audience.

• Conversational/Co-hosted Podcast:

Imagine a cozy gathering of like-minded individuals, having a heart-to-heart conversation. Finding a co-host or multiple co-hosts with whom you share great chemistry can turn your podcast into a powerful platform for engaging discussions.

• Non-Fictional Storytelling:

This format unfolds captivating, real-life stories. Just think of podcasts like “Serial” or “The Teacher’s Pet.” Dive into the world of investigation and storytelling, much like the intriguing Indian podcast “Trial by Error | The Aarushi Files.”

• Fiction Storytelling:

If you have a knack for storytelling, fiction podcasts provide an excellent canvas to unleash your creativity. Craft captivating narratives that transport your listeners to different worlds and adventures.

• Repurposed Content:

Many content creators breathe new life into their existing work by repurposing it into a podcast. This format allows audiences to catch up on their favorite shows or content passively through audio, making it accessible on-demand.

• Hybrid:

Why limit yourself to one format when you can mix and match the possibilities? Go wild with creativity by experimenting with different formats in various episodes. Have guests on some, while telling stories or going solo in others. The choice is yours, and it’s as diverse as your imagination.

Remember, your podcast format is the canvas on which you paint your podcasting masterpiece. So, let your creativity flow, and choose the format that empowers your vision and warms the hearts of your listeners.

Start your podcast

Finding the Perfect Podcast Name

The name of your podcast is like the first step in a dance; it sets the rhythm and tone for the journey ahead. If you’re facing a roadblock in this department, fret not, we’ve got some tips to help you groove your way to the ideal name:

Reflect Your Vibe:

Your podcast’s name should mirror the energy and spirit of your show. It’s the first impression you make on your audience, so ensure it’s a true reflection of what they can expect.

Clarity is Kindness:

Keep it clear and catchy. Simplicity is your best friend in the world of podcast names. A name that’s easy to remember and rolls off the tongue is golden.

Alliteration Appeal:

Play with sounds to create an unforgettable name. Alliteration can add a charming and memorable touch to your podcast’s identity.

Avoid Alphabet Soup:

Steer clear of alphabet soups or complex acronyms. You want your audience to effortlessly recall your podcast’s name.

Check Availability:

Before you fall head over heels with a name, ensure it’s available as a domain and on social media platforms. Consistency across all channels is key.

Timeless Trumps Trendy:

While it’s tempting to chase trends, aim for a name that stands the test of time. A timeless name will serve your podcast well in the long run.

Ask for Feedback:

Gather opinions from friends, family, or your own focus group. Sometimes, a fresh perspective can lead to the perfect name.

Heart Over Hype:

Choose a name that resonates with you on a personal level. Your podcast’s name should have heart and meaning to you.

For some name inspiration, check out our blog where we explore seven podcasts and why their names work for them. Remember, naming your podcast is part of the exciting identity-building process. 

Enjoy the journey, and rest assured, the perfect name is just around the corner, waiting to be discovered.

Crafting a Captivating Podcast Description

Your podcast description is the gateway to attracting listeners and setting the stage for your show. Here’s a concise guide on writing a podcast description that makes your podcast discoverable, gives the audience an idea about the podcast, and keeps it catchy.

Template:

1. Start with a Hook: Begin with an attention-grabbing statement or question that piques curiosity and engages the reader.
2. Introduce Your Podcast: Provide a brief, one or two-sentence introduction to your podcast, including its name.
3. Define Your Niche: Mention your podcast’s niche or main theme, highlighting what sets it apart from others in the same category.
4. Highlight Unique Selling Points (USPs): Identify what makes your podcast special. Mention any exclusive content, expert guests, or fresh perspectives.
5. Tease Content: Offer a glimpse of what listeners can expect from your episodes. Mention the types of topics, stories, or discussions you’ll feature.
6. Call to Action: Encourage your audience to subscribe, follow, or share the podcast. Use compelling language to prompt action.
7. Keywords and SEO: Include relevant keywords related to your podcast’s niche to enhance discoverability in search results.

Example:

“🎧 Dive into the enchanting world of culinary delights with ‘Foodie’s Haven,’ the ultimate food lover’s paradise.

Hungry for tantalizing food adventures? Join us as we explore the most delectable dishes from around the globe, one bite at a time. Discover hidden culinary gems, meet renowned chefs, and learn the secrets of the kitchen. 🍔🌮🍣

In ‘Foodie’s Haven,’ we serve up a plate of exclusive content, including mouthwatering recipes, behind-the-scenes kitchen magic, and heartwarming food stories. If you’re a food enthusiast with an insatiable appetite for epicurean experiences, this podcast is your haven.

Subscribe now to savor the world’s flavors and embark on a gastronomic journey like never before. Don’t just listen – savor the taste! 🌍🍽️”

Remember, a compelling podcast description should provide a glimpse of your podcast’s essence, entice potential listeners, and improve discoverability. Tailor your description to your unique content and audience.

Creating Eye-Catching Podcast Cover Art

Your podcast cover art is the first impression you make on potential listeners, so it should be both informative and attention-grabbing. Here are some tips to help you design captivating cover art:

1. Keep It Simple and Clear: Simplicity is key. Ensure that the name of your podcast is bold, clear, and easy to read. Avoid clutter and excessive details that may confuse or overwhelm viewers.
2. Focus on Font and Size: Your podcast name should be the focal point of your cover art. Choose a font style that reflects your podcast’s vibe and ensure the size is large enough to be legible, even in thumbnail views.
3. Background Complementarity: Select a background that complements your font style and color. The background should enhance the visibility of your podcast name rather than overshadow it.
4. Eye-Catching Colors: Use colors that grab attention and are relevant to your podcast’s theme. Bold and contrasting colors can make your cover art stand out.
5. High-Resolution Imagery: Ensure your cover art is of high resolution. This will make it look professional and appealing, especially on high-definition screens.
6. 1:1 Ratio: Create your cover art in a 1:1 ratio, as it’s the standard for most podcast platforms. This ensures that your art appears consistent across various platforms.
7. Test in Thumbnail Size: Before finalizing your cover art, test how it looks in a thumbnail size. Make sure it remains clear and captivating even when reduced in size.
8. Brand Consistency: If you have an existing brand or logo, incorporate it into your cover art to maintain consistency with your other branding materials.
9. Seek Inspiration: Explore cover art from popular podcasts in your niche for inspiration. While being unique is essential, seeing what works for others can provide valuable insights.
10. Get Feedback: Before finalizing your cover art, seek feedback from friends, family, or your target audience. Their input can help you refine your design.

Creating eye-catching cover art is a vital step in attracting and retaining your audience. A well-designed cover art not only informs potential listeners about your podcast but also draws them in with its visual appeal. 

So, invest time and effort in creating cover art that leaves a lasting impression.

Scripting vs. Winging It: Finding Your Podcasting Style

To script or wing it, that’s the question. The answer to this dilemma largely hinges on the podcast format you choose. Let’s explore how to navigate this decision based on your podcast format:

1. Interview Format:

   – In the interview format, relying on a script is often redundant. The conversation flows naturally between you and your guest.

   – However, having a few talking points or questions prepared can keep the conversation on track and ensure you cover important topics.

2. Solo Podcast:

   – For solo podcasts, having a script can be incredibly useful. It provides structure and helps you stay focused and organized.

   – Scripts ensure you deliver information clearly and minimize awkward pauses.

3. First Episode:

   – For your very first episode, it’s a good idea to have a script, even if you plan to use a more conversational style in future episodes.

   – Your first episode should primarily focus on introducing your podcast, yourself, and clearly explaining what listeners can expect from your show.

The choice between scripting and improvising also depends on your personal comfort and style. Some podcasters find a balance by having a loose script or outline for guidance while allowing room for spontaneous moments.

Ultimately, your podcasting style will evolve with experience. You can experiment with different approaches and discover what works best for you and your audience. Remember, the key is to be authentic and engage your listeners, whether you’re following a script or going off-the-cuff.

Structuring Your Podcast for Success

We shared a simple structure for your first episode, but your next episodes need to have more. The basic structure of a podcast episode typically follows the format of an intro, body, and outro. This framework ensures a smooth flow and keeps your audience engaged. Here’s how to structure your podcast effectively:

1. Intro:

   – Provide a short and crisp introduction to your podcast. 

   – Introduce yourself as the host and offer a brief overview of the podcast or the specific episode.

   – Set the stage for what your audience can expect, giving them a tantalizing taste of what’s to come.

2. Body:

   – The body is the meat of your podcast, where you delve into your chosen topics or discussions.

   – This is where you share your insights, stories, or interviews with guests.

   – Maintain a clear and organized flow to ensure that your content is engaging and easy to follow.

3. Outro:

   – In the outro, summarize the main points or takeaways from the episode.

   – You can also include a short preview or promotion of the next episode to keep your audience excited for what’s coming next.

   – Finish with a memorable sign-off or catchphrase that leaves a lasting impression.

4. Background Music:

   – Many podcasters use background music, especially during the intro and outro sections, to enhance the overall listening experience.

   – YouTube’s Audio Library is a valuable resource for royalty-free music and sound effects to elevate your podcast.

5. Duration:

   – The duration of your podcast episodes can vary widely, ranging from 2 to 120 minutes.

   – When starting a podcast, aim for a duration of around 15 minutes or less to capture and maintain your audience’s attention.

   – Over time, you can adjust the length based on your content and audience feedback.

By structuring your podcast with this basic intro-body-outro format, you provide a clear and enjoyable listening experience. Remember, as you gain experience, you can adapt and experiment with the structure to suit your unique style and audience preferences.

Mastering the Art of Podcast Scheduling

In any endeavor, consistency is the secret sauce for success. The same holds true for podcasting. Having a scheduling strategy is like having a treasure map to ensure you consistently show up with fresh episodes. Here’s why you should embrace the magic of podcast scheduling:

1. Efficiency Enchantment:

   – A well-planned schedule streamlines your production process. It helps you stay organized, ensuring everything falls into place like pieces of a puzzle.

2. Engagement Spell:

   – Releasing episodes at the right time and on specific days is akin to casting a spell for maximum listener engagement. Consistency builds anticipation among your audience, keeping them coming back for more.

3. Guiding North Star:

   – Your podcast schedule becomes the North Star guiding your podcast vision. It keeps you on track and prevents you from getting lost in the podcasting wilderness, ensuring you reach your goals.

So, why not embrace the scheduling magic and upgrade your podcasting journey? It’s your ticket to becoming a wizard by showing up with a new episode every time. Consistency is the key to building a dedicated and growing listener base. Ready to take your podcast to the next level? Check out our blog on creating a schedule plan to keep the magic alive.

Unlocking the Technical Wizardry of Podcasting

Now that we’ve explored the creative side of podcasting and embraced the magic of scheduling, it’s time to dive into the technical aspects of how to start a podcast that brings your podcast to life. 

In the sections below, we’ll unravel the intricacies of recording, editing, and the tools you need to craft a podcast that sounds nothing short of enchanting. 

So, get ready to embark on this technical journey, where we’ll break it all down for you. Whether you’re a seasoned podcaster or just starting, there’s something here to help you cast your podcasting spell with confidence.

What is an RSS feed?

Understanding what an RSS feed is crucial when you’re figuring out how to start a podcast because this term gets thrown around a lot. Here’s a very simple explanation.

Imagine your favorite TV show or video game. You know how there’s a special channel or website where you can watch or play it? Well, a podcast also needs a special place where people can listen to it.

This special place for podcasts is like a magic book that talks to the computer or phone. This book has a list of all the episodes of the podcast, with their titles and what they are about. This list is called the “RSS feed.”

Whenever the podcast has a new episode, it’s like adding a new chapter to the magic book. People who like the podcast have a special app or program on their computer or phone that checks this magic book all the time.

When the magic book gets a new chapter, it tells the app, and the app tells your computer or phone. That’s when you see the new episode on your screen, and you can listen to it.

So, in simple words, the RSS feed is like a magic book that tells your computer or phone when there’s a new episode of your favorite podcast, and that’s how you can listen to it!

Podcasters typically don’t need to create the RSS feed manually, as it’s generated and managed by their hosting platform. That’s where we – Hubhopper, a podcast hosting platform – come in and generate and manage your RSS feed for you.

Hosting Your Podcast – Simplified

Think of podcast hosting like a safe and cozy home for your podcast episodes. Just like you need a house to live in, your podcast needs a place to stay on the internet. This place is called a “hosting service.”

Here’s how it works:

Your Podcast Files: When you create a podcast episode, it’s like making a special cake. Your episode is made of audio files, and these need a place to be stored, just like you need a fridge for your cake.

The Hosting Service: Podcast hosting services are like the fridges for your audio files. You upload your podcast episodes to this hosting service, and they keep them safe and sound.

Sharing with Others: Once your episodes are in this podcast fridge (hosting service), anyone with the right link can listen to your podcast. This is how people from all over the world can hear your podcast.

Now, let’s talk about Hubhopper Studio:

Hosting Your Podcast on Hubhopper Studio

When it comes to finding the perfect “fridge” for your podcast, Hubhopper Studio is a fantastic choice. Here’s why:

1. Easy Podcast Creation: Hubhopper Studio makes it super easy to create your podcast. They provide tools that help you make your episodes just the way you want them, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced creator.
2. Reaching a Bigger Audience: Hubhopper Studio is like a magical transporter for your podcast. It can send your podcast episodes to lots of places on the internet where people listen to podcasts. This means more people can discover and enjoy your podcast.
3. Lots of Cool Features: Hubhopper offers a bunch of cool stuff for podcasters. They have different tools and options to make your podcast special and unique.
4. A Supportive Community: Hubhopper has a big group of podcasters who are like friends. They can help you, give you advice, and share their own experiences. Being part of this community can make your podcasting adventure even more fun.

So, just like you’d choose a comfy home for your family, Hubhopper Studio is like a cozy home for your podcast. It’s where your podcast episodes can stay, be shared with the world, and grow with the help of a friendly community of fellow podcasters. So if you’re wondering how to start a podcast, Hubhopper is the place for you.

Equipment

You don’t need a big budget or fancy equipment to begin your podcasting adventure. In fact, you already have some powerful tools right at your fingertips.

Your trusty phone’s built-in microphone can be your best podcasting buddy, and with Hubhopper Audio Recorder and Editor, you have the magic wands you need. Podcasting is all about affordability, so you don’t need a Hollywood setup or a superstar’s face to get started. We’ll share some great pro-tips to record clean audio with your phone’s microphone in the next section.

But if you’re ready to level up and sound even more professional, here are some recommendations:

Blue Yeti Microphone:

• A USB microphone compatible with Windows and Mac.
• Employs tri-capsule technology for studio-quality recordings.
• Offers four pattern settings for different recording styles:
  • Cardioid: Records sounds directly in front.
  • Stereo: Captures audio from the left and right.
  • Omnidirectional: Picks up sound from all directions.
  • Interview: Records both front and back.

Blue Snowball iCE Microphone:

• A USB microphone designed for high-quality podcasting.
• Equipped with a custom cardioid condenser capsule for clear audio.
• Works with both Windows and Mac.
• Includes a tripod stand for convenience.
• Certified by Skype and Discord for excellent sound quality.

Budget Microphones:

• Boya BYM1 Omnidirectional Lavalier Condenser Microphone:
  • An affordable option with a 3.5 mm Jack connector.
  • Connects to mobile phones and desktops.
  • Portable, but requires battery power.
  • Available in India.
• MAONO AU-902 USB Condenser Podcast Microphone:
  • A portable USB microphone compatible with Windows and Mac.
  • Utilizes a cardioid polar pattern to capture audio from the front.
  • Features a headphone jack for real-time monitoring.
  • Easily adjust headphone volume and mic gain.

With these options, you have the flexibility to start your podcasting journey without breaking the bank. So, whether you’re just beginning or looking to enhance your setup, there’s a solution that fits your needs.

Recording Tips for Crystal-Clear Sound

Recording your podcast on the go is a breeze with our mobile app. To achieve that crisp and clean sound, follow this secret recipe:

1. Find a Quiet Spot: Seek out a peaceful corner and turn off fans and AC to minimize background noise.
2. Create Your Audio Sanctuary: Close the door to create a quiet space where your voice can shine.
3. Timing Matters: Record when your surroundings are whisper-quiet to ensure top-notch audio quality.
4. DIY Pop Filter: For an impromptu pop filter, grab a sock that’s not too thick or too thin and cover your phone’s mic outlet. It’s surprisingly effective!
5. Cozy Sound Booth: Drape a cotton sheet over your head to create a makeshift sound booth that enhances your audio.

Now, we know that recording can be a bit tricky, and background noise may occasionally sneak in. But don’t worry; we’re here to help.

If you’re not into DIY sound solutions or if interference is a concern, our trusty friend Adobe Podcast Enhance can come to the rescue. It can help eliminate those pesky disturbances, so you can focus on delivering the best content.

When you’re all set to record, keep your key points handy. You can have a script as your trusty sidekick, but remember not to read it word for word. We’re aiming for a natural, conversational tone, not a robotic one. Any mistakes you make here can easily be fixed when you’re editing, which we have discussed in the next section.

Imagine you’re talking to a friend, and let your words flow effortlessly. Podcasting might have its challenges, but with our guidance, you’ll get the hang of it in no time. 

Crafting and Editing Your Podcast with Ease

When it’s time to edit your podcast, remember that moderation is key. Trim excessively long pauses to maintain a smooth flow. Pauses can add flavor, but too many can be a buzzkill. Cut the clutter while keeping the essence. 

Our trusty Hubhopper Audio Editor is your sidekick here. Use it to add background music, adjust volume, and make your podcast a delightful listening experience.

Remember when we talked about intro and outro? They create an auditory memory and give your show a professional touch. You record them once and then add them whenever you edit an episode. They’re the secret sauce of podcasting charm.

With these tips, you’ll be crafting and editing your podcast like a pro. The podcasting world is your oyster, so go forth and dazzle!

Hubhopper Studio Editor: Our simple yet powerful tool is here to assist you in editing your podcast. It can help you add music, apply fade in and out effects, and trim unnecessary parts from your audio. Sign up on Hubhopper Studio today to start your very own podcast.

For additional help with editing, check out our video tutorial that guides you through using the Hubhopper Studio Editor.

The built-in editing tools make podcast creation a smooth journey, and you can even eliminate any background noise that might sneak into your audio using the Audacity tool. 

Start your podcast

Scheduling

We’ve emphasized the significance of having a content schedule for your podcast. However, the question arises: how do you actually stick to that schedule without manually posting your podcast each day?

Here’s where Hubhopper’s built-in solution, episode scheduling, comes into play. When you sign up on Hubhopper, you gain access to this feature. It allows you to schedule your episodes in advance. 

Once your episodes are scheduled, you can rest easy, knowing that they will be delivered to your audience at the right time, without you having to be present every single day.

In other words, episode scheduling ensures your content reaches your listeners consistently, just as you’ve planned, without the hassle of manual posting. It’s a game-changer for podcasters who value efficiency and reliability. 

Launch

Launch is where all your efforts start to come together. After you’ve crafted everything, you can now start your podcast, launch your first episode, and distribute your podcast. 

If you’re looking for a podcast hosting platform, you can sign up for free on Hubhopper, and start your podcast. We’ve already discussed all the details you’ll need to start one, all that’s left is distributing your podcast.

Discoverability & Distribution

In the vast and ever-expanding world of podcasts, discoverability is a term that holds immense significance. It refers to the ease with which potential listeners can find and explore your podcast. Now, why is this so crucial, and how does global distribution play a pivotal role?

Why Discoverability Matters:

1. Stand Out in the Crowd: There are millions of podcasts out there, covering a myriad of topics. Ensuring your podcast is discoverable sets it apart from the noise and gives it a chance to shine.
2. Attracting New Listeners: Discoverability is the gateway to expanding your listener base. It’s how you bring in fresh ears, grow your audience, and establish a connection with a broader community.
3. Creating Impact: Whether you’re sharing knowledge, telling stories, or sparking discussions, your podcast is a vessel for making an impact. Discoverability amplifies your reach and influence.
4. Monetization: For those considering monetizing their podcasts, discoverability is a key factor. Advertisers and sponsors seek podcasts with a strong, easily discoverable presence.

The Role of Global Distribution:

Distributing your podcast on various global listening platforms is a game-changer in enhancing discoverability. Here’s why:

1. Global Reach: These platforms have a worldwide audience. By featuring your podcast on them, you unlock the potential to reach listeners from different corners of the globe.
2. Diverse Audiences: Different platforms attract various types of listeners. This diversity broadens your reach and helps you connect with audiences who resonate with your content.
3. Accessibility: Podcast listeners have their preferences when it comes to where they listen. Global distribution ensures your podcast is available on platforms they frequent, making it convenient for your audience.

Here is a list of platforms where your podcast will be distributed if you host your podcast with us:

• Hubhopper app and web
• Spotify
• Google Podcasts
• Amazon Music
• TuneIn
• Gaana
• Wynk Music
• Paytm
• Ola Play
• Bull Horn
• Pocketcasts and many more…

In a nutshell, discoverability is the compass guiding your podcast’s journey. To make your content accessible and relevant to a global audience, distributing on various listening platforms is indispensable. It’s not just about getting your podcast out there; it’s about making it accessible to anyone, anywhere.

Post Launch: What Comes Next

The final step of how to start a podcast is the post-launch. Once your podcast is launched and live for the world to hear, the journey is far from over. In fact, it’s just the beginning. 

There are several crucial post-launch tasks to consider that can help you sustain and grow your podcast’s success. These include promoting your episodes, and monitoring performance. 

Let’s delve into these post-launch strategies in more detail to ensure your podcast continues to thrive.

Marketing – The Path to Podcast Success: Proven Tactics

Your podcast has taken flight, and now it’s time to make it soar high in the podcasting sky. Here are some simple yet powerful strategies to catch your audience’s attention:

1. Reliability Rules: Consistency is your best friend. It will nurture your current audience and attract more listeners when they see that you’re an active podcaster. Prepare episodes in advance and schedule them for a seamless flow.
2. Perfect Timing: Release episodes when your audience is most likely to listen. Pick the right moment to captivate your fans. For example, horror podcasts perform well at night, while self-help podcasts perform well in the day – when people are commuting. Try to get in the shoes of your listener, and make an educated assumption about their podcast listening habits.
3. Collaboration is Key: Join forces with fellow podcasters in your niche. Collaborate, not compete, and watch your podcast grow.
4. Social Media Magic: Use social media to its full potential. Share teasers, interact with your audience, and create engaging content.
5. Mailing List Charm: Build an email list for a direct connection with your listeners. Share episode links and behind-the-scenes stories.
6. Create Your Digital Home: Craft a free micro-website using Hubhopper Studio to increase discoverability and improve your SEO.
7. Share the Love: Offer freebies related to your podcast theme to engage and gather leads.
8. Podcast Tour: Appear as a guest on other podcasts in your niche to promote your work and build awareness.

And for more podcasting wisdom, check out our blog on ‘15 Powerful Strategies to Promote Your Podcast.’ It’s packed with tips and tricks to supercharge your podcast’s success. Keep the magic alive! 

Analytics

Analytics hold the key to understanding your audience better than ever. Dive into their listening patterns and watch your content creation plan flourish.

Data at Your Fingertips 

Ever wondered which devices your listeners prefer? Explore the world of operating systems to see if they’re Team iPhone, Android, or even something more unique. It’s like a tech safari for your ears!

Discover the hottest podcast platforms for your show with our Podcast Player data. Is it Gaana, Spotify, or Google Podcasts? Keep an eye on trends and choose the apps that elevate your podcast.

Download Your Insights

Hubhopper Pro offers advanced analytics, and you can even download this data in CSV format from your analytics dashboard. It’s like getting a backstage pass to your podcast’s performance!

Explore Device Preferences

Wondering which gadgets your listeners love? From generic smartphones to Apple Watches, our device distribution data has you covered. Get a peek into your audience’s tech preferences.

Time Travel with Custom Date Range 

Break free from time constraints and view data beyond 90 days. Choose your custom date range and explore the insights that matter most to you. It’s like having a time machine for your podcast analytics!

So, embark on this data adventure and use these insights to empower your podcast, making it the best it can be. Your journey to podcast greatness continues!

How to start a podcast – The Checklist

So, now that you’ve gone through the entire blog and have a strong foundation on how to go about it. But all these steps can be pretty overwhelming. We’re going to give you a FREE checklist that will set you up for success and you’ll not be worried about missing anything. Just click here and you’ll be directed to a Notion Checklist.

Here’s what you do next

Once you get the checklist, you start actually working on each task and keep ticking them off, so you feel that you’re accomplishing something. I get that it feels overwhelming to start a podcast, but with the checklist and this comprehensive but concise guide, you now have a broken down step-by-step process of going about making your podcast. 

You’re actually way closer to making your podcast than you think right now. You just need to take the leap of faith and put in the work, and you’ll be good to go. We believe in you and always have your back. 

Start your podcast

I can’t wait to see what you come up with! Happy Podcasting.