How to launch a podcast in 4 steps

Have you noticed there’s been a boom in podcasts in recent times?

I first started making podcast in 2010-12 for BBC but recently the medium has become more accessible with the rise of smartphones and highspeed internet. Plus our lifestyles make podcast consumption easy.

According to a survey on podcast consumption in the UK, Statista tells us that 37 percent of respondents listen to podcasts while doing housework. Another 51 percent say they listen to podcasts while they were at home relaxing.

Chats, debates, revelations, discussion and entertainment. Podcasts are your invitation into a world of recorded and edited digital audio files that you access your mobile phone or laptop for example.

I love podcasts and often have them on while working. It’s like a constant friendly presence to share information and learn something new.

I’m launching a new podcast called Soapbox with a co-host called Sue Tuddenham Knot. I’ll tell you more about it soon so watch this space….

You’ve probably noticed that more brands, companies and people are using podcasts to generate conversations and highlight a topic.

4 reasons why podcasts are useful for you, a leader, solopreneur and business owner

1. Podcasts have become a positive way to draw attention to you, who you are, and what you do.
2. Promote your business products and services if you’re a small business owner
3. Demonstrate your knowledge and expertise as a leader and expert
4. Show your personality and character behind your business – You can have fun and just be you

Before you even consider creating a podcast, listen to them!

Also, here are questions to ask yourself before you record a podcast.

Here are some of the ones I listen to

• The Diary of a CEO by Steven Bartlett is a must for business perspective
• How I built this is presented by Guy Raz and it shares stories behind some of the world’s best-known companies.
• Table Manners with Jessie Ware: singer Jessie Ware and her mum invite guests for dinner; they cook together and have fun conversations about life.

Want to create a podcast? Here’s where to start

Launching a podcast is an exciting venture! Here’s a concise guide to get you started in four steps:

1. Plan It

• Content: Decide on the topics you’ll cover. Make sure they are engaging and relevant to your target audience.
• Recording & Editing: Choose your recording equipment and editing software. Popular options include Audacity.
• Roles: Determine who will host, produce, and edit the podcast.

Here is the perfect podcast planner template to organise the content you will record

2. Think of the Sound

• Audio Quality: Invest in a good microphone and soundproofing to ensure clear audio.
• Music & Effects: Consider using intro/outro music and sound effects to enhance the listening experience.

3. Who Will You Interview

• Guests: Identify potential guests who can provide valuable insights and interesting conversations who align with your podcast’s theme and would interest your audience.
• Preparation: Prepare questions and topics in advance to keep the interview flowing smoothly.

4. How to Promote It

• Platforms: Decide where you will publish your podcast (e.g., Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts).
• Marketing: Use social media, email newsletters, and collaborations to promote your podcast and build a listener community.
• Community Engagement: Engage with your listeners through comments, social media, and possibly live Q&A sessions to build a community around your podcast.

Remember, the key to a successful podcast is not just the content but also the consistency and quality of your episodes. Keep your audience engaged by releasing episodes regularly and maintaining high audio quality. Have fun with it and enjoy the process!

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