Tips for Creating a High Quality Podcast
Many companies and individuals are choosing to dive into the podcasting game – it’s expected to become a $2 billion industry by 2023. So now seems like the perfect time to share some podcasting tips with you. Whether you’re thinking about taking the plunge yourself, or you’re just a podcast aficionado who wonders what it takes behind-the-scenes, we hope you find these pointers helpful.
Invest in Production Quality
The thing that makes podcasting so enticing is the low barrier for entry. Anyone with a mic and a basic recording program will already have the tools they need to get started, from a technical standpoint. That’s the beauty of podcasting. With a bright enough idea, a well thought-out plan, and interesting subject material, you can get started with your computer mic and a basic recording program like Riverside.
If you want the production quality to be higher, you’ll want to invest a little more. You don’t have to spend thousands of dollars on recording equipment; for just a few hundred bucks, you can find a quality mic, such as a Blue Yeti or Shure SM7, and this will help improve your sound immensely. For a relatively low cost, it helps you give a more professional listening experience.
Develop Your Voice
Most people don’t enjoy listening to themselves talk. We totally get it! Remember, the goal is to create an audio experience that’s inviting, natural, and intimate for the listener. Before you start recording, spend some time finding your own “podcast voice” and delivery to make sure you don’t sound overly polished or stuffy.
You don’t have to listen to yourself on tape over and over again, either. Just listen to other podcasts that you enjoy to get an idea of what you like when it comes to speed, tone, and inflection. Try to replicate those positive traits while establishing your own voice.
Prepare, Prepare, Prepare
The more professional you want your podcast to sound, the more background work you should do. Do your research beforehand so you feel prepared going in, and make sure your subject matter is as interesting and thorough as possible. You don’t want to go into an interview blind, and you don’t want a comprehensive podcast on a certain topic to miss a key point or angle.
During your preparation period, we recommend double checking your research, putting together a fluent script, and practicing your deliveries. But also keep in mind that you don’t want to over-prepare, and that you should leave room for natural moments and improvisational dialogue throughout your podcast. Sounding robotic and too scripted can be a turn-off for some listeners, so be sure to balance preparation with having a natural flow.
Press Record
At the end of the day, if you’re thinking about starting a podcast and you’re passionate about your idea, just take the leap. Plan accordingly, get your equipment needs in order, make sure you have a direction, and then it’s time to get started.
Making the jump and diving in can be scary. You might never feel completely ready to put your content out to the wide expanse of the Internet. But when it’s all said and done, it’s time to trust in your preparation and press record. Launch and let your podcast out into the world.
Did you find these tips helpful? Great! Feel free to contact us with any questions you have or services you might need when it comes to producing and promoting your podcast. Not only do we give great podcasting tips, but we make a pretty great podcast ourselves! Go ahead and give it a listen.
