Why Listeners Prefer Podcasts Over Radio and How to Start Your Own Podcast?

Do you remember those old days that started with the sound of the radio and doing the morning duties in a hurry-burry along with the timings of shows on the radio?

Making coffee or travelling, the radio stayed as a companion for years in many people ‘s lives until the revolution of podcasts came. Podcasts have become a global cultural phenomenon in the last few years, attracting millions of listeners. Why? Let’s dive in.

In today’s busy world, the interests of listeners have changed, and they crave content that they can control wherever and whenever they want. Podcasts stole the spotlight and have emerged as a preferred medium over traditional radio because of their flexibility and personalization options. Unlike conventional radio, which follows fixed schedules and content patterns, podcasts offer a variety of subjects, from crime stories to celebrity interviews.

When radio usually aims at a broad audience with general topics, podcasts offer total freedom to choose the content as many podcasts are solely focused on specific topics. Personalization of content and subscription options available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts help to probe into favourite shows without wasting time searching for shows. The accessibility to control the timing of content has also attracted the audience, as people prefer to listen to their favourite shows at their convenience. Exercising, cooking, or driving? Listen whenever you want!

Want to listen to Hollywood stars or musicians? Possible! Podcasts broke the limitations of geographical restrictions and dependency on broadcast signals, unlike radio. As they are internet-based, anyone can listen to any show worldwide. The accessibility is not only beneficial to listeners but also to creators, as their content can achieve maximum reach. If you have an ad-free subscription, all podcasts featuring apps provide a cool, uninterrupted listening experience. Nowadays, many podcasts create deeper engagement by fostering active listener communities through social media and live feedback methods.

How to Start Your Own Podcast: Step by Step

Step 1: Topic Selection

Before anything, ask yourself: What am I passionate about?

Always choose a topic that you are passionate about. Knowing the basic background information about the field you are selecting is essential for achieving success. Decide on format, whether the show is being hosted solo or co-hosted. Fix the pattern of show whether it is in interview style or storytelling. Identify your target audience and use language according to their interests.

Step 2: Plan Your Episodes

Decide the length, tone and structure of your podcast and prepare a script of at least 5–10 initial episodes before recording. This provides consistency in beginning stage and makes things easier. The duration of 20–30 minutes is ideal for beginners.

Step 3: Record Your Podcast

Find a quiet environment with soft furnishings to reduce echo and enhance the clarity. Use a good recording software to capture high-quality audio.

Step 4: Edit the Audio

Editing involves the removal of background noise, unnecessary pauses and adding any music or intros. Some free beginner software available in Google Play Store can perform the function.

Step 5: Publish and Distribute

Choose a hosting platform like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts and upload the episode. Write a clear title and engaging description with keywords and tags for SEO, so your podcast is discoverable.

Step 6: Promote Your Podcast

Use your social media, the best place to connect more listeners. Encourage listeners to leave reviews, this will boost the visibility.

Podcast Gadgets For Beginners

Microphone:

USB microphones can be plugged straight into your laptop, no extra hardware needed. XLR mics require additional equipment to operate and you can’t plug them straight into your computer, will need an interface, preamp, mixer or digital recorder. So beginners can go for USB microphones.
Blue Yeti and Audio-Technica ATR2100x are the best choices. Available on sites like Amazon or Flipkart.

Headphones:

Headphones help to listen to your voice so you can hear exactly what’s being captured. Closed-back Headphones prevent audio leaks and there won’t be any battery concerns as they are wired. Audio-Technica ATH-M20x and Sony MDR-7506 are the best options for beginners.

Pop filter:

A Pop filter (windshield/windscreen) is used as noise protection filter for microphones. So even if you get close to mic, the voice will be captured by the mic filtering out the unnecessary noises around you. Most pop filters available in shopping websites can be used by beginners. Also buy a mic stand or boom arm so that you can attach the pop filter to it to eliminate handling noise.

Recording/Editing software:

The best free software for beginners is Audacity. It is a free, open-source, cross-platform audio software that can be operate on within Windows, Mac OS X and more. Later, you can upgrade to professional tools like Adobe Audition.

Laptop or Desktop:

Any device works well in recording and editing podcasts. So use your laptop or desktop you have without hesitation.

Last Tip:

If you don’t want to invest immediately, use your phone. Most smartphones nowadays can record decent-quality audio. But don’t forget to pair it with a clip-on mic…!

So, why wait? Record your first episode soon…