It seems like nowadays everyone is pursuing their dreams of going into the entertainment and media industries. All you need is a camera, a laptop, and social media. Because of technology, now anyone can create, produce, and air a podcast.
Even if you’ve never planned on becoming famous, podcasts are still helpful in other areas. If you own a small business or are a freelancer, then a podcast is a great way to show off your industry expertise. Also, you can interview your colleagues and business partners and give them a chance to increase their exposure. If you’re thinking of starting an online broadcast, then continue reading to get some tips to help you get started.
Choose a proper setting.
Some people choose to shoot their online shows in a studio. Others even build a studio in their home for taping their podcasts. If you don’t have the funding to shoot in a studio or build one in your home, then don’t worry.
You can use almost any space available for recording your show—the important thing is to not overthink how your set looks. People tune into podcasts much more for in-depth or entertaining content than the visuals. Many podcasts aren’t even live-streamed or taped.
Pick a space that’s all yours and build from there. When your podcast begins to pay for itself, then you can start making upgrades to your set. For now, you should focus your finances on getting the proper equipment.
Get the right equipment.
If you want to live stream your podcast, then you’re going to need a high-resolution webcam. HD webcams are perfect for creating high-resolution content for the internet. Having a sharp HD picture will give your podcast an air of professionalism.
You should also get microphones with pop filters for you, a co-host, and your guests. The pop filter will take the pow out of your “plosion” words. Those are words that start with the letter p and release a lot of air pressure. Those words tend to sound like a pop when amplified by a microphone, but the filter prevents that.
You can get away with using a cheap microphone, but you’re going to want to get some professional sound engineering equipment. Your podcast’s sound quality will be what either impresses or repels listeners.
Create a flow chart for your podcasts and plan for the future.
The fact that podcasts are simple to create doesn’t mean they’re effortless. You’re going to have to put your mind to work to consistently come up with fresh and engaging ideas for content. There’s a reason that showrunners and producers earn big bucks.
You don’t want to be stuck trying to come up with ideas for a show the night before you’re supposed to shoot. To make sure that you’re able to regularly deliver compelling programs, you need to plan your episodes in advance. You also need to create a flow chart for each episode so that you’ll have a guideline to keep your show transitioning naturally and ending on time.
Find a unique theme or niche for your podcast.
No matter what topics you choose to focus on when recording your podcast, you need something to make your show stand out from the rest. In other words, you need to find your niche.
For instance, if you want to create a podcast where you analyze sports, then you could go with a sports bar theme. Make your show unique by debating with your knowledgeable buddies over tankards of beer.
A pewter tankard will show your guests that not only do you know your sports, but you’re an avid ale aficionado as well. To diversify your show, you could even discuss craft beers and favorite brews with your guests.
