How to start a podcast: a beginner's checklist
To start a podcast, decide who it is for, pick a format you can sustain, name it, plan your first 10 episodes, set up simple recording gear, record and edit a few episodes, then launch with a trailer, a hosting feed and short clips that point people to the show.
1. Who is your listener?
Write down one specific person you are making the show for and what they get from each episode. Every later decision gets easier: topics, length, tone and where to publish.
2. Which format can you keep up?
Solo shows are easiest to schedule. Co-hosted shows bring energy. Interview shows grow through guests but need booking time. Pick the one you can sustain, because consistency matters more than a perfect first episode.
3. What will you call it?
Choose a name that is easy to say, spell and search, and a description that names the listener in the first line. Keep the artwork simple enough to read as a small square.
4. What are your first 10 episodes?
List ten topics or guests before you record anything. Having them planned stops the show from stalling after the excitement of launch wears off.
5. What equipment do you need?
- A dedicated microphone for each speaker.
- Closed headphones to avoid echo.
- A quiet room with soft surfaces.
- A camera if you plan a video podcast.
- Recording software that saves each speaker on a separate track if possible.
6. Record, edit and package
Record a test episode first. Then edit for pacing, clean up the audio, add captions and write show notes. This is the stage most people underestimate, and where a podcast editing service saves the most time.
7. Launch and keep going
Set up a podcast hosting account to create your RSS feed, publish a trailer and your first episodes, and share short clips on social media. Then release on a steady rhythm. See how to launch a podcast.
What mistakes do new podcasters make?
- Starting without a clear listener in mind.
- Buying expensive gear before testing a format.
- Recording in an echoey room.
- Publishing irregularly after the first few weeks.
- Skipping clips, so nobody new ever finds the show.
- Waiting for perfect instead of improving episode by episode.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to start a podcast?
You can start with modest gear if you do the work yourself. Done-for-you production is priced on our podcast cost page.
Do I need a studio?
No. Many shows record remotely or at home. See do I need a studio.
How long should my first episode be?
Long enough to deliver what the title promises, and no longer. Plan it on the discovery call if you are unsure.
Free podcast launch checklist
Every launch step in order, as a one-page PDF. Get the free checklist.
Next steps
See packages and pricing, or book a free 30-minute discovery call and we'll map out what your show needs.
Related: Podcast Launch · Podcast Cost · Podcast Editing · Podcast Questions