How to Figure Out the Podcast Logistics

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So, we’ve got a niche and a name, what do we do now? Tim and Paul are talking about podcasting logistics to get your first episode out there.

Let’s start with the show format, have you given it any thought? Will it be interview-based, is there more than one host, is it fact or fiction? Paul recommends going solo to get started. Not only will it build your confidence on the mic, it will help the audience get to know you. If you ever want to monetize the show with a product offering or something, having your audience know you first is key. Starting solo also means there are no excuses holding you back. Too many people get stuck on trying to find guests or coordinate with a co-host. Just get started. There are apps you can download and get going today. Try a short, coming soon, trailer episode to get your feet wet.

Tim’s offering up tips and tricks on how to do it all yourself, right down to which apps to download. For starters, you’re going to want Canva. This app is wonderful and can do so much, including making your cover art. People do judge a book by its cover. When they’re scrolling through podcasts, they’re only going to see your cover art. Make sure it pulls them in. Tim says if you’re going to be the fact of your company, you should be on the cover art. He also says if you’re going to be on the cover art, you need to be looking at your audience, and you need to own the page.

What about equipment? Well, it doesn’t take much, but you should invest in a good microphone, especially if you’re using your phone. Tim’s first podcast was done on just his phone, and he got a lot of negative feedback about the audio quality. There are microphones that plug right into your phone for all price ranges. Do what you can to show up with the best possible sound.

To show up anywhere, you need a hosting platform. There are several out there, and they all have their pros and cons. One popular one is AnchorFM. For pros, it’s simple to use, the stats are accurate, and they help you to distribute easily. One major con though is that they own your podcast. Libsyn is the platform that Paul uses. It’s a little more difficult to set up, but it’s the most professional. If you’d like to try it out, use code ‘Underdog’ to get the first month free. Simplecast is another easy one, and it’s the platform that Tim uses. He says it has really great stats as well. Soundcloud has numerous people on its platform, but it’s still more tailored for music. No matter where you decide to host, make sure you’re submitting to all the streaming platforms. Make sure you’re everywhere.

It’s finally time for your first episode. Don’t panic, Tim recommends doing some simple and short clips for your first couple of episodes. Try releasing a ‘coming soon’ episode first, and then invite everyone you know to check it out. Most people will listen to it all the way through, and with Apple’s algorithm, your podcast could shoot to the top. Use that episode to really hook people in. Your second episode could be all about you; introduce yourself and share your story. Tim recommends thinking of the standard hero's journey narrative when telling your story. You know, the classic underdog circumstances, not knowing who you are, going through something major that causes you to discover who you are, getting equipped and overcoming challenges storyline. Just remember, when you share your journey, it empowers other people.

The bottom line is, just get it done. Don’t get caught up in all the little in’s and out’s. You can literally download Audacity for free and start recording now.