You’ve been contemplating whether it’s the right time to start your podcast. If you are a big fan of podcasts like My Favorite Murder, This American Life, or any other popular podcast, the thought of creating your podcast must’ve crossed your mind once or twice. Do you ever wonder how to make a podcast and profit from it? Let’s talk more about starting a podcast below.
What Is A Podcast?
First, we must know what a podcast is and why it is so popular nowadays.
A podcast program only uses audio, where each episode focuses on a particular subject. The topic that a host or several hosts will discuss can be about anything under the sun (and even beyond). The sky’s the limit when it comes to these podcasts, and it’s one of the reasons why it’s a trend that will not be dying anytime soon.
Why Should I Start A Podcast?
Several reasons can motivate you to start a podcast. Whether looking for a way to earn or simply doing it for fun, there is always time to create your podcast. Some people are motivated to build a following or be credible industry experts. Creating a podcast can be challenging, just like any new thing you’d like to start.
How To Start A Podcast?
These are the vital steps you should consider in starting your podcast.
Decide Your Topic
Before anything else, you must determine what topic to focus on in your podcast. You must consider acquiring a topic you are most interested in and that your target audience will love. After narrowing it down, you can finally have the time to research other similar podcasts and choose what kind of format suits you best. In line with knowing your topic is deciding the name for the podcast.
Invest In Recording Equipment
Podcasts only use audio; that’s why ensuring its quality is important. You can use common electronic devices like your mobile, laptop, or tablet. However, if you want to ensure its quality, we recommend investing a little in recording equipment.
You can look for a quality microphone to ensure the audience hears you. Editing software would be necessary too, but different software is available for free, such as Audacity. It’s best to check out all available ones, depending on your needs and budget.
Start Recording and Editing!
You’re already at the part where you can start recording your first podcast. Whether you want to follow an outline or freestyle (or talk with a guest/co-host), it’s all up to you! It all depends on the style and strategy you want to use when recording and how you want your output to look. It’s also worthwhile to remember that it’s fine to first walk on your tippy toes when recording.
Another part of editing is to decide on the podcast’s format, the descriptions, and the episode titles. As well as how frequently you will record. Once you’ve set up a format, you can edit and re-record as much as you like until you are satisfied with the result. Eventually, you will find the best way to record your podcast to meet your expectations.
Submission and Promotion
You’ve created your first-ever podcast episode and are ready to post it. You can submit/upload your podcast to various directories, like Apple Podcast, Spotify, and others.
Once it is published, you can proceed with promoting your podcast. You can increase the publicity of your podcast by posting on social media. Popular platforms like Tiktok and Instagram can earn you an audience. Asking your listeners to leave positive reviews is another way to grow your audience.
How To Make Money In Podcast?
Monetizing your podcast will hugely depend on your topic, the number of followers, and what methods will appear better for you. There are various ways to generate revenue or profit, which include the following monetization methods:
Directly Monetizing Your PodcastThis method involves earning money through your content. An example of direct monetization is by having ads in your content.
Usually, you can incorporate these paid advertisements into an episode where you can read a short promotion for the product. Affiliate Marketing is another method where you can be paid when a listener purchases a product through your custom link (via Amazon). If you want to go the easiest route, you can create membership tiers for your podcast. This is where you can release premium content that only members can acquire. |
Indirectly Monetizing Your PodcastOnce your podcast grows a following, this is the best time to utilize the podcast and acquire revenue indirectly. The most popular indirect monetization method is selling merch and physical products that relate to your content and interests.
Another way is by making use of your expertise. You can provide consultations or guidance, write a book and speak at events. All of these indirect monetization will depend on the industry that you are in. |
Start A Podcast and Monetize Your Passion Today!
Just like any other profession or hobby, it may sound like a lot when you plan to start a podcast. However, taking the first step is all it would take to go in the right direction. As long as you make sure that you will be preparing yourself, may it be through the preparation of topics, pieces of equipment, and others that we have discussed.
On the other hand, monetization can be your goal or an afterthought when starting a podcast. Regardless, checking out direct and indirect monetization methods through podcasts would be great knowledge that can help your channel grow while you earn money. Utilizing one or a combination of each approach can help you prosper and have the podcast of your dreams. It is, ultimately, your choice and will depend on what you desire.
