A Very Simple Podcast Tutorial

Ready to become a podcaster? Use this simple podcast tutorial to learn the steps involved!

Podcasting is a great way to talk about your passions in a relaxed and open format. The beauty of podcasting is that anyone can do it. So... how do you do it?

When you're launching your first podcast there's a lot you need to learn. I've been at it for 12 years and can walk you through everything, from planning, production, editing, uploading, and promoting. Hit that link for more.

The following is a simple look at how to record a podcast. This guide offers an overall look at what exactly is involved. If it looks like a lot or it's over your head, hire Hypable Impact to get you up and running!

What you'll need for recording a podcast:

1. A digital microphone (that connects to your computer via USB)
2. A computer
3. A passion
4. Maybe a co-host or two

How to record a podcast

1. Planning is key! Use an app like Google Docs to put together a show plan. Keep this guide open while you're recording so you can refer to it every time you're looking to move on to a new topic. We recommend Google Docs because it allows for easy collaboration with any co-hosts you may have on your podcast. Simply share the planning doc with them and you can work on the same show plan together! Here's an example planning doc for MuggleCast, a Harry Potter podcast.
2. Plug your USB microphone into your computer and look on your PC or Mac for software that lets you record audio. If you're on Mac, open up Quicktime. If you're on Windows, bring up Sound Recorder.
3. Check the input setting in the app and make sure it's set to record your USB microphone.
4. Do a test recording to make sure you sound okay. There's a chance you'll be too loud or too quiet. Use a combination of your computer's input settings as well as where your mic is in relation to your face to improve the sound.
5. Hit record and get talking! Make sure the waveforms aren't maxing out the bars -- if you see them hitting the edges, this means your mic is too loud (or you're too close to the mic).
6. Hit stop. Save your file.

Editing a podcast

• You'll need audio editing software. These applications often cost money and will take some learning before you get the hang of them. You'll need to use audio editing software to add music, take out mistakes, and add any other sound effects or music you need. The most basic audio editing software is Audacity and is available for free.
• If you're on Mac, import your recording to GarageBand. In a multitrack project you can easily add music and other sound effects.
• Trim the beginning and the end of the audio file so the show starts and ends in the correct places. Export the audio to an MP3 file on your desktop!

Uploading a podcast

• The best way to get a podcast online is by signing up for a podcast hosting service like Libsyn or Audioboom. These websites will help you upload each episode of your show and easily get it published to places like iTunes and Google Play.

Promote promote promote!

• There are tons of podcasts out there. You need to work to get yours noticed! Reach out to communities that would be interested in hearing your show. Write guest articles on websites where your podcast would be of interest, and promote your show in your article. Purchase Facebook ads that target the right communities.
  • I.E. Is your podcast about Pixar? Reach out to Disney/Movie/Pixar websites and target people who like Pixar on Facebook. Make sure your podcast is amazing so that people will fall in love after their first listen!