A Comprehensive Guide for Podcast Creators
With the rise of new podcasts and the increasing demand for audio content, starting your podcast network can be a good idea. 88% say that they listen to podcasts in order to learn, while an almost-equal 87% say they tune in for entertainment.
The power of podcasts is how transferable the information is. Podcasts can be broken down to be shared with other content creators, make short video reels, or write content about it. With the power of content sharing, your viewership can massively gain traction over time.
However, it’s important to note that building and managing a successful podcast network requires a lot of work and dedication. 9 out of 10 podcasts never last more than three episodes, and 8 out of 10 never last more than twenty. So if you were to create a podcast with over twenty episodes, you stand in the top 2%.
That said, this article plans to share with you the tips and tricks to:
- Help you get traffic/ more noticeable
- Tools to improve user experience
- tricks others have used to 10x their podcast viewership
- Improve your efficiency in pushing out more content
If this interest you, be sure to read on.
15 Step-by-Step Guide on How to Start a Podcast
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to start your own podcast network and create a collection of podcasts that cater to different interests and engage a wide range of listeners:
Define your mission statement
Before diving into the podcasting world, it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of your mission and vision. Treat starting a podcast like a business instead of simple entertainment. You will need to:
- Define the purpose of your podcast network
- the goals you want to achieve
- Identify your target audience
- topics you wish to cover
The best podcast could be something like the Joe Rogen experience where his mission was simple, “to do the same thing I was filming, but live.” This mission statement alone helps fans of his learn more about his personality and how he plans to help others with his podcast.
Create your own show
As the founder of the podcast network, it’s essential to have your own show as the flagship program. This will give you credibility and allow you to lead by example. Choose a podcast topic that aligns with your expertise or passion, and create high-quality content that resonates with your target audience.
In order to build a brand around you, content quality needs to be part of the show. Is your show important for others to watch? Is there something to gain from watching your show from others?
Choose the exemplary hosting service
what is a podcast network?
Besides providing your podcast’s RSS feeds, podcast hosting platforms also give you access to web players, analytics, some scheduling tools, and other useful features. All of these make it easier to publish and track your podcast’s success.
But don’t depend entirely on analytics for your podcast, read on near the bottom to find out why.
In the long run, you(the creator) are able to understand:
- what the demand from your viewers are
- what timing is the best to post content
- What content are people more likely to engage with
Popular hosting services include Libsyn, Anchor, and Podbean. Libsyn is the current best podcast network, Anchor is the most popular podcast hosting since it links with Spotify, and Podbean is a free podcast hosting server.
You can find out more about Libsyn with the video below⏬ and why it is the best podcast hosting server.
If you would like to learn more about how to join a podcast network, you can check out the vox media podcast network website to learn more about starting a podcast.
Recruit podcast hosts
Reach out to potential podcast hosts who fit your network’s subject matter and target audience well.
Look for talented individuals who are passionate about their topics and have the drive to create engaging content. Networking on social media platforms and attending podcasting events can help you connect with aspiring podcasters.
It must match the energy!
Most podcasters quit after reading comments like how a guest doesn’t match a certain energy/vibe they were looking for in the podcast. Having the right energy in the team takes time to find and build. Don’t rush this process!
Set a flat rate or revenue-sharing model
Decide on a fair compensation structure for your podcast hosts. While some podcast guests wouldn’t mind being on a podcast for traffic, having some level of compensation is important.
You can offer a flat rate per episode or implement a revenue-sharing model where hosts receive a percentage of the ad revenue generated by their show. Consider the size of their listener base, the quality of their content, and their potential for growth when determining compensation.
Also, having a “care package” can also help to promote great friendship between the podcaster and the guest. It could be as simple as paying for the transport, meals, or accommodation for their travel.
Simple, but means a lot!
Encourage cross-promotion
Sometimes going to other podcast from different genre to share your experience can actually garner more attention
For example, Neil deGrasse Tyson went to the Joe Rogen Experience’s podcast to share astrology findings which turns out to be a big hit among fans. By being creative and always finding new things to learn from, this experience will level up your podcast.
You(podcast creator) should also start joining a podcast network, this is to expand and cross-exchange potential followers or subscribers. This works the best with different genre since there is a large unique audience that might not know you or could learn something from interacting with you.
Encourage podcast hosts within your network to cross-promote each other’s shows. This helps to expand your listener base and increase exposure for all the podcasts in your network. Provide marketing tools and guidelines to make it easier for hosts to promote other shows effectively.
Focus on quality content
The BIGGEST Hit or Miss in a podcast is definitely the content quality. 90% of users believe that audio is the number one factor for podcast content. In order to get be best content quality, the first step is investing in good equipment.
Here’s a video from Think Media that shares the equipment you need to start a podcast. ALL UNDER $500!
Emphasize the importance of producing high-quality content across all the member podcasts in your network. Your first 5 seconds of video is a make or break from most user experiences. Make sure to get the attention from them right from the start.
Here’s a microphone we typically recommend our users look into. PS It doesn’t burn a hole in your pocket!
What equipment do you need for voice-over work?
When it comes to starting a voice-over career, having the right equipment is crucial to ensure high-quality recordings and professionalism. Here are some equipment recommendations for aspiring voice-over artists:
Microphone
Invest in a good-quality microphone that captures your voice accurately and minimizes background noise. Popular options include the Shure SM58, Audio-Technica AT2020, or the Rode NT1.
Hey, if you plan to do this job, the least you can get yourself is a good microphone to hear your voice more clearly.
That way, your voice could be edited easier and made use of. Click the link below to check out the top microphones available in the market.
I highly recommend you get the Shure SM58 which is the most widely used in the market.
Pop Filter
A pop filter helps reduce plosive sounds (such as “p” and “b” sounds) that can create unwanted noise in recordings. It is usually placed in front of the microphone to prevent harsh bursts of air from reaching the microphone diaphragm.
If your voice isn’t smooth or you tend to create sharp sounds, this tool is crucial for you to use.
This product isn’t expensive and it is the easiest to install.
Headphones
Choose a pair of closed-back headphones that provide accurate audio reproduction. This helps you monitor your recordings and catch any issues or background noise that might have been missed during the recording process. Suggested options include Audio-Technica ATH-M50x or the Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro.
I have to be honest. My favorite audio headphone has to go with Sony. A lot of users have been using the Sony XH-1000XM5.
If not, the Apple headphone is really great as well. But it is going to cost you at a hefty price.
Audio Interface
An audio interface is essential for connecting your microphone to your computer. It converts analog audio signals into digital data. Popular audio interfaces include the Focusrite Scarlett series or the PreSonus AudioBox.
For audio interfaces, you don’t need crazy fancy equipment for it. Here’s what the market recommends, we will break it down from affordable to premium:
Acoustic Treatment
To minimize echo and room reflections in your recordings, consider incorporating acoustic treatment in your recording space. This can include foam panels, bass traps, and diffusers strategically placed to optimize sound quality.
Colorful ones, get 12 Pack Self-adhesive Acoustic Panels with the link below:
Popular ones that are really affordable and most commonly used in the market. Link below:
Recording Software
Choose a digital audio workstation (DAW) software that suits your needs. Popular options include Adobe Audition, Audacity (free), or Reaper. These programs allow you to record, edit, and enhance your voice-over recordings.
If you are looking to do full-time voice-over, I highly recommend you stick with Adobe Audition. If not, you can try out Audacity.
Stand or Boom Arm
A sturdy microphone stands or a boom arm helps position your microphone at the optimal distance and angle for recording. This ensures consistent audio quality and allows for comfortable long recording sessions.
The difference between a low and high-quality microphone stand has got to do with how rigid it is.
A high-quality microphone is able to support multiple pieces of equipment while still maintaining its position.
Don’t do cheap on this as some might not even work properly. For just less than $70, this stand would be the perfect one for most users.
The next step is to provide guidance and support to ensure that each podcast meets a certain standard. If you are only available on a weekend, posting content once a week is fine. But just make sure that the content is consistent and easy to manage.
Consistency and quality are key to attracting and retaining listeners. Start planning for it!
Establish your network on podcast directories
Submit each podcast in your network to popular podcast directories such as Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. Optimizing your podcast titles, descriptions, and cover art can help improve visibility and attract new listeners.
Well, if you want to get good at this, you may want to start a Youtube side business and understand how and what to expect when building strong podcast directories.
Check out some Youtube articles we have written on how to establish your network and gain traction:
- Fastest Way To Make Money On YouTube (Made for 2023)
- I Became an Entrepreneur Thanks to ALL-IN Podcast🃏
- How much can you make with a podcast?
- Get Paid to Post Ads: 11 Ways to Make Money to Share
Foster creativity and maintain creative control
While providing guidance and support, it’s important to respect the creative control of each podcast host. Allow them the freedom to express their unique style and voice, as it contributes to the diversity and appeal of your network.
It’s your show, but don’t cut someone talking
Something simple, yet hard to do when there is a heated debate over something.
Seek advertising opportunities
Once your network gains traction and download numbers increase, explore advertising opportunities. Reach out to potential sponsors or consider joining podcast advertising networks like Vox Media’s “Podcast Ads” or Spotify’s “Audience Network” to monetize your podcasts.
Here’s how much you can potentially make from advertisement through podcasting. A Podcaster with around 10,000 downloads per episode can expect to earn somewhere between $500 to $900. Successful podcaster like the Joe Rogen experience makes $30 USD million in 2019 alone. This amount excludes his earnings from Youtube even though it is the same content.
To reach here, it takes time. But once you have built enough traffic, your earnings would be exponential.
Related Post:
- Get Paid to Post Ads: 11 Ways to Make Money to Share
- How I Sold Over $44,000 Worth of Books Using Amazon Ads
- the Power of Google Ads
- How to Make over $100 Daily with Your Affiliate Marketing Using WordPress Site
Support your podcasters
A simple shoutout, like, or follow is all it takes really.
Be an active participant in the growth of your network by providing ongoing support to your podcast hosts. Share industry insights, offer training or workshops, and help them navigate challenges. Cultivate a sense of community among your member podcasts.
Expand your network
As your network grows and becomes more established, consider adding new podcasts that align with your mission statement and complement the existing shows. Be selective and choose podcasts that add value to your network and resonate with your target audience.
Your time is precious and you need to find the most efficient way to build an audience. Going to a podcast with 10,000 followers isn’t going to help grow your business.
Reach out to a high follower count or influential people, they can automatically get the podcaster the attention it needs.
Leverage social media and other marketing channels
Leveraging social media is the most basic thing you can do to market your channel
For HustleVentureSG business, we leverage social media to grow our business. By posting a weekly newsletter at a certain time, our loyal followers are more likely to take notice and help with our business.
Utilize social media platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook to promote your network and individual podcasts. Engage with potential listeners, share behind-the-scenes content, and encourage audience interaction. Consider creating a YouTube channel to repurpose podcast episodes or create exclusive video content.
Short video reels have been growing in popularity given the power of absorbing bite-sized information. It helps viewers to develop attention for your business.
Offer exclusive content and perks
Small effort counts
Provide exclusive content, early access to episodes, or special perks to your loyal listeners. This helps foster a sense of community and encourages listeners to stay engaged with your network.
Monitor performance and adapt
Keep a close eye on download numbers, listener feedback, and market trends.
Use analytics provided by your podcast hosting service to track each podcast’s performance and identify improvement areas. Adapt your strategies accordingly to stay relevant and meet the evolving needs of your audience.
While checking analytics is great, reading and commenting through comments to understand viewers’ need helps a ton in fostering a strong community to improve your personal branding.
Hardwork or working too hard?
I hope this article has been helpful in driving the information that you need. It should make all the hard work researching to starting a podcast network a lot easier.
Launching and running a successful podcast network requires hard work, dedication, and a deep understanding of the podcasting landscape. By creating a network of podcasts, you can bring together talented podcasters, reach a larger listener base, and offer a diverse range of content.
Remember🙂, building a podcast network is a long-term commitment, but with the right approach and continuous effort, you can establish a thriving and influential network in the podcasting industry.
Check out some Youtube articles we have written on how to establish your network and gain traction:
- Fastest Way To Make Money On YouTube (Made for 2023)
- I Became an Entrepreneur Thanks to ALL-IN Podcast🃏
- How much can you make with a podcast?
- Get Paid to Post Ads: 11 Ways to Make Money to Share
FAQ
Why should I start a podcast?
Starting a podcast can be a great way to share your knowledge, expertise, or passion with a wider audience. It allows you to connect with listeners who have similar interests and create a community around your content. Additionally, podcasting provides an opportunity to engage with guests, build your personal brand, and potentially generate income through sponsorships or advertising.
What equipment do I need to start a podcast?
The essential equipment for starting a podcast includes a good-quality microphone, headphones, and a computer. You’ll also need audio editing software to record and edit your episodes. While there are a variety of equipment options available, it’s important to choose reliable tools that suit your budget and recording environment.
How do I choose a topic for my podcast?
When selecting a topic for your podcast, consider something you’re passionate about or knowledgeable about. It should be a subject that you can consistently create content around and that will appeal to your target audience. Research the existing podcast landscape to identify any gaps or opportunities for a unique perspective within your chosen topic.
How do I plan and structure my podcast episodes?
Start by outlining the main points or segments you want to cover in each episode. Consider the overall flow and organization of the content. It’s helpful to create an episode structure or script, especially for beginners, to ensure a smooth and coherent presentation. Allow for flexibility and organic conversation within your planned structure to keep the content engaging.
How long should my podcast episodes be?
The ideal length for podcast episodes varies depending on your topic, format, and audience preferences. While some podcasts have episodes that run for hours, most successful podcasts aim for an average episode length of 20 to 60 minutes. It’s important to find a balance between providing valuable content and keeping your audience engaged throughout the episode.
How can I improve the audio quality of my podcast?
To improve audio quality, ensure you have a quiet recording environment to minimize background noise. Invest in a good-quality microphone and use headphones to monitor the audio while recording. Position the microphone appropriately and adjust the settings to optimize sound capture. Additionally, learn basic audio editing techniques to enhance the overall quality during the post-production process.
How do I monetize my podcast?
There are several ways to monetize your podcast. You can seek sponsorships or advertisements from relevant companies or brands. Another option is to create premium content or bonus episodes that can be accessed by paying subscribers. Crowdfunding platforms like Patreon can also be used to generate income from loyal listeners who want to support your podcast.
