So You Wanna Start a Podcast?

Let’s be real—podcasting is one of the most powerful platforms out right now. It’s raw, it’s real, and it gives you a voice that people can carry with them in their car, on a jog, or while grinding late at night. But how do you go from idea to impact? From “I’ve been thinking about it…” to “Welcome to episode one”?

Let’s break it down.

Start With the “Why” Before the Mic
Before you worry about the gear or the guests, ask yourself this:
Why do I want to start a podcast?

Is it to build your brand? Share your story? Teach what you know? Create conversation around a topic you’re passionate about?

Your “why” becomes your compass—it helps shape everything from your tone to your topics to your target audience.

Pick a Name That Speaks
Your name is your first impression. It should be catchy, easy to remember, and aligned with your message or vibe.

Say it out loud. If it rolls off the tongue and feels good, you’re probably onto something. Check that the name is available on podcast platforms, Instagram, and as a website URL—even if you’re not using them all yet. Future you will thank you.

Design With Confidence Using Tools Like Canva
You don’t need to be a graphic designer to make your podcast look professional. Canva is a user-friendly tool that lets you create stunning podcast covers, social media graphics, audiograms, thumbnails, and more.

Pick a bold font, choose a clean layout, and keep your branding consistent across all platforms. Remember—your visuals matter just as much as your voice.

Define Your Format and Episode Flow
Decide if you’re going solo, bringing on guests, telling stories, or hosting a panel-style conversation. Choose a format that fits your energy and what your audience will enjoy.

A good episode structure could look like this:
Intro – welcome your audience and set the tone
Main content or interview – the heart of your episode
Recap or takeaway – give your listeners something to hold onto
Outro – thank your guests, plug your next episode, or share a CTA

Keep it consistent so your listeners know what to expect.

Record With What You Have
You don’t need a full studio. A quiet space, a good USB mic like the Blue Yeti or Samson Q2U, and a pair of headphones can go a long way. You can use free software like GarageBand, Audacity, or easy online platforms like Riverside.fm or Zoom to get started.

If you’re mobile, even your phone with a voice memo app and earbuds can get the job done in the beginning. It’s about consistency and clarity—not perfection.

Edit Like a Pro (Even If You’re Not One)
You can use Descript, which transcribes and lets you edit audio like a Word doc. It’s super beginner-friendly. For visuals and snippets, Canva is once again your go-to. You can also use Headliner or Wavve to turn short audio clips into eye-catching social media promos.

Distribute Smart
Once your first few episodes are ready, it’s time to get them out into the world. Platforms like Spotify for Podcasters (formerly Anchor), Buzzsprout, or Podbean help you distribute to all major directories—Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more—with just a few clicks.

Launch with at least three episodes so listeners can binge and get hooked.

Promote Everywhere
Your podcast won’t grow if people don’t know about it. Use social media to tease clips, share behind-the-scenes moments, or highlight guest quotes. Create audiograms, short vertical videos for Reels or TikTok, and post on your Instagram stories regularly.

Email your network. Ask for reviews. Invite your guests to share the episode with their audience.

Stay Consistent and Engage
Whether you post weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly, stick to a schedule. Consistency builds trust. And make sure to talk with your listeners—respond to messages, ask for topic suggestions, and read reviews or feedback. The best podcasts feel like a conversation, not a broadcast.

Keys to Long-Term Success
– Know your niche and stay in it
– Keep learning from other podcasters you admire
– Upgrade your gear as you grow
– Make room for creativity—it’s your show
– Repurpose content for multiple platforms
– Build relationships with other influencers, coaches, and creators

Final Word: Your Voice Matters
You don’t need a million followers or fancy equipment to start a podcast that moves people. You just need a message, a mic, and the courage to hit record.

Your story, your experiences, your humor, your perspective—someone out there needs to hear it.

So go for it. Design your podcast with purpose, use the tools at your fingertips, and turn your idea into a platform that connects, educates, and inspires.

Let’s get it.

— Jaiden