Today, I share how you can launch a podcast from your phone (and why you should start there). More at www.bemovingforward.com.
Moving Forward is also available on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher Radio, Google Play, Spotify, and now Amazon Music.
Spoilers: It's easy.
The other day, I was a guest on a friend's podcast. I had been encouraging her to launch an interview show for some time as she's a multi-talented individual with experience in acting, hosting, media, and content creation. She launched her show last year and thanked me after we recorded our interview. I've helped several people over the years and they've all thrived with shows that are unique; showcasing their expertise and personalities. In each case, the person took a little longer than they would have liked, admitting that it wasn't nearly as hard they thought it would be.
When it comes to podcasting, I'll sound like a broken record since I've said this before but it bears repeating. The tech isn't the hardest part. The biggest obstacle to launching a podcast is you.
In the podcast mini-series, I walk through the steps to launch a podcast, lifting the hood on what I do for Moving Forward. However, you don't have to do all of the steps or jump through the hoops I did in 2015. In 2021, launching a podcast is as easy as speaking into your phone. This week, I decided to put my money (or rather my phone) where my mouth is and prove it.
I recorded episode 331 right from my phone. The sound quality isn't as good as the standard #MFPodcast episode. But for purposes of getting started, sound quality isn't as important as you may think. Before we get to that, I want to break down podcasting into three essential steps.
Plan your exit. Map out how many seasons and episodes your podcast will be. Whether it's 500 episodes or 5, having an exit will provide you with the motivation to continue chugging along once the initial burst of inspiration wears off. Every project starts with excitement but the honeymoon period won't last. You'll need something else that keeps you going and in my experience, a clearly defined "light at the end of the tunnel" is the best way to stay the course.
Figure out your what (and why). A podcast can serve many purposes. If you're expert in a topic, you may want to share that with the world. Or, your podcast can be an opportunity to learn about a topic you know little about. Figure out your what and why. I recommend an ideation session with a white board or large piece of paper. List what you're good at, what you're interested in, and find the connection between the two.
Use what you have on hand. I have a simple philosophy when it comes to getting started. Start simple. Use whatever you have on hand. Trust me, it's enough. You have a smartphone, probably a computer and/or tablet. That's enough to start a podcast. Hit record and start talking. Don't worry about sound quality. Too often, people get caught up in having expensive equipment (mics, sound mixers, sound proofing) without knowing whether this is something they want do long term. Keep the tech costs low and if you decide to stick with it, upgrade later.
Does it matter that your podcast sounds a little staticky or isn't as smooth as can be? Not really. As long as the content is good, listeners won't really care. Some of the best podcasts I've listened to have choppy sound quality and some of the worst have crystal clear sound. Sound clarity isn't the barometer for a good podcast. It's a nice to have. Similarly, don't overedit. I've let go of editing and frills such as music and transition effects because producing a polished, radio-style show is no longer my goal and I simply don't have time for it. It's perfectly fine if you want to do something more formal and polished but work towards it. If I had to start over, that's what I would do.
When it comes to starting a podcast, put your energy into the content. As you find your groove, you can improve and invest more into it later on.
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Podcast hosting services
Libsyn: Libsyn.com is a paid podcast hosting service with plans based on monthly storage needs.
Anchor: Anchor.fm is a free podcast hosting service owned by Spotify with great features, including editing, direct recording (solo or interviews), stock music and sound effects.
There are many out there. Do some research to find a host service provider that's a good fit with your show and needs.
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