How to Start & Grow A Podcast

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In February 2017, the Spirits team led a workshop called "Podcasting from A to Z" at Nerdcon: Nerdfighteria. You can watch the recording of the panel below, and access the presentation slides here.

For more in-depth resources, check out Amanda's blog. Our friend Zach Valenti also published a comprehensive guide to podcast equipment and editing here.

Do you have questions, comments, or additional suggestions? Tweet to us, or get in touch!

 

Idea Generation & Testing

  • Namechk.com: Search availability of domain names and social media handles all in one
  • Hover.com: Search for domain names to make sure you can get the one you want. Especially good for handling multiple domains

 

Design

  • Finding a recommended designer within your network/friend circle is ideal. Developing a relationship with a designer you trust will be helpful initially and super beneficial down the road
  • Canva: Free tool for creating social media banners, infographics, etc.
  • iTunes Best Practices : Lists ideal dimensions for cover art and guidelines for metadata. Good for market research, too! See what designs from the top charts stand out to you and why
  • Illustrator: If you’re taking on design yourself
  • Learning: Lynda.com, skillshare.com

 

Equipment

  • Microphones
    • Dynamic mics are best for picking up voice and not picking up on background noise.
    • Budget version: Audio-Technica ATR2100-USB Cardioid ($68)
    • Mid-tier version: Shure SM57-LC ($99)
    • Condenser mics are a budget-friendly alternative for 2+ people to share at the same time (ex: Blue Yeti, $99)
  • Additional Equipment
    • Digital interface - Translates analog audio signals to digital files
    • Mixers - More suitable than interfaces if you’ll be doing a lot of live shows, also play music, or need 2+ inputs (mics, instruments, sound effects, etc.) at a given time
    • Accessories - You may also need headphone splitters, pop screens, and mic stands
  • Sources of Advice
    • B&H: A photo/video super store in NYC that you can call for free advice and product recs
    • Blogs: Lots of “cheap starter kits for podcasters” blog posts exist online!
    • Technique is just as important as equipment. Read, watch and listen to all you can about how to use mics, record sound, and post-produce

 

Editing

 

Social media

 

Money

 

Community-Building

 

The Care & Keeping of You