Podcasting for Beginners: Your First Steps

If you've never made a podcast before, the process might seem overwhelming. Don't worry—this guide breaks it down into simple, manageable steps that anyone can follow.

Is Podcasting Right for You?

Podcasting might be perfect if you:

• Have knowledge or stories to share
• Enjoy talking about your interests
• Want to build a community or audience
• Are looking for a creative outlet
• Want to establish authority in your field

You don't need to be a professional broadcaster or have expensive equipment to start.

The Simplest Way to Start

Week 1: Plan Your Show

Day 1-2: Define your concept

• What's your topic?
• Who will listen?
• What makes your show unique?

Day 3-4: Choose your format

• Solo commentary
• Interview style
• Co-hosted discussion
• Narrative/storytelling

Day 5-7: Plan your first 5 episodes

• Create episode titles and brief outlines
• This ensures you won't run out of ideas immediately

Week 2: Set Up Your Equipment

Minimum viable setup:

• Your smartphone with a free recording app
• A quiet room
• That's it!

Better beginner setup ($50-100):

• USB microphone (Audio-Technica ATR2100x)
• Free recording software (Audacity)
• Headphones you already own

Week 3: Record and Edit

Recording your first episode:

1. Find a quiet space
2. Open your recording app
3. Do a 30-second test and listen back
4. Record your full episode (aim for 15-30 minutes to start)
5. Don't stop for small mistakes—keep going

Basic editing:

1. Remove long pauses
2. Cut obvious mistakes
3. Add simple intro/outro music (royalty-free)
4. Export as MP3

Week 4: Launch

Set up your hosting:

1. Create a Dispatch account
2. Add your podcast details and artwork
3. Upload your first episode

Submit to directories:

1. Apple Podcasts
2. Spotify
3. Amazon Music

Announce your launch:

• Share on social media
• Tell friends and family
• Email anyone who might be interested

Common Beginner Questions

How long should my episodes be?

There's no perfect length. Start with 15-30 minutes and adjust based on your content and audience feedback.

How often should I publish?

Weekly is the most common schedule. Start with what you can sustain—consistency matters more than frequency.

Do I need to edit my podcast?

Basic editing improves quality, but don't spend hours perfecting every episode. Good enough is good enough, especially when starting.

What if I make mistakes?

Everyone makes mistakes. You can edit them out, or embrace them as part of your authentic style.

How do I get listeners?

Focus on creating valuable content first. Then:

• Share on social media
• Ask listeners to share with friends
• Be a guest on other podcasts
• Engage in communities related to your topic

Mistakes Beginners Make

1. Waiting too long to launch - Done is better than perfect
2. Buying expensive equipment first - Start simple, upgrade later
3. Copying other podcasts exactly - Find your own voice
4. Giving up after a few episodes - Growth takes time
5. Not asking for reviews - Reviews help discoverability

Your Action Plan

Today: Decide on your podcast topic and format

This week: Record a test episode (just for practice)

This month: Launch your first real episode

The podcasting community is welcoming and supportive. Everyone started as a beginner. Your unique perspective has value, and there's an audience waiting to hear from you.

Start your podcast journey with Dispatch