The Two Tools Podcasters Need
If you’re getting started in podcasting, it can be overwhelming — especially if you have no experience in podcasting, audio editing, or even doing a show. The good news is that you don’t need a fancy studio, producers, and tons of experience to launch a podcast. You just need a great idea. There are, however, TWO tools that you’re going to need to get started, and if you’re new to the game, we’ll break it down for you.
MICROPHONE
Seems obvious, right? But what kind of microphone do you need? One of those fancy ones they use in broadcasting studios, like on the radio? Those cost thousands of dollars and you don’t have the budget for that! Fear not – there are tons of affordable options on the market, and most of them have independent reviewers testing them out in YouTube reviews. (Just keep in mind, some of these reviewers will either be in professional studios or special soundproofed rooms they’ve built.)
Blue and Shure are two brands that come to mind (one of the podcast hosts of BROADly Speaking uses a Blue Yeti mic along with other members of The Bert Show when they broadcast from home). Make sure the microphone you’re getting can plug into your computer, most likely via USB (double check your ports if you have a Mac).
AUDIO EDITING SOFTWARE
Another potential freak out moment: how are you supposed to edit audio when you’ve literally had no to close to zero experience editing in your life? Where do you even start? The good news is that there are TONS of audio editing options out there, and a lot are really easy to learn the basics on.
There are tons of options for recording online – some of which even record video, too – like Zencastr and Riverside.FM – where you can invite multiple hosts or guests from multiple locations to record your podcast.
You can try programs like Garage Band for simple edits or Audacity and Adobe Audition for more complex editing. If it seems daunting, don’t worry – you don’t need a ton of training to edit this basic stuff out; there are guides all over the web. You may also want to consider adding an open and a closer – something branded that introduces your show (like our shows In The Moement and BROADly Speaking use). Just make sure that if you’re using music, you own the copyright or have it properly licensed to avoid potential fines.
For more on Podcasting 101, check out out our 5 things you need to know to launch a podcast.
