Are you ready to step up your podcasting game this year? Whether you’re a seasoned podcaster or just getting started, having the best podcasting equipment can make all the difference in the world.
As the podcasting industry continues to thrive, it offers an incredible platform for entrepreneurs to amplify our voices, share our expertise, and connect with our audience on a deeper level. Whether you’re an aspiring podcaster or looking to upgrade your current setup, having the right podcasting equipment is vital for delivering high-quality content and engaging your listeners.
In this blog post, I’ll be covering some of the best podcasting equipment available in 2023 and beyond that will be incredibly useful for you as a beginning podcaster. And just so you know, I have an entire podcasting checklist available for you to download for free that can help as you read this post. So, let’s dive in!
Choose a sturdy microphone
Let’s talk about the heart and soul of your podcasting setup: the microphone.
If you want to sound like the true boss you are, I have a few mic suggestions for you. We’ll start with the Audio-Technica AT2020 USB-X. It’s versatile, affordable, and delivers crystal-clear audio. Plus, it has both USB and XLR connections, so you can easily connect it to your computer or a mixer.
But to get started on a budget, I like to recommend the Blue Yeti (it’s a USB mic) which I’ve been using for a short while but really enjoy its ease of use.
Soundproof your space with pop filters and sound booths
Creating a distraction-free recording environment is crucial for top-notch audio quality. As busy entrepreneurs, we know the power of shutting out the noise and focusing on our goals. That’s why a pop filter is a must-have. It reduces plosive sounds (those annoying pops when saying words with “p” or “b”) and helps keep your audio smooth and professional. (Many microphones already come with a built-in pop filter but using an extra one can never hurt). This one specifically for the Blue Yeti is a great option.
Sometimes, achieving the perfect sound quality means getting rid of background noise from the onset. If you want to take your podcast to the next level and create a soundproof space, consider using acoustic panels like these Troy Studio foam panels. These stylish panels not only absorb unwanted echoes but also add a touch of sophistication to your recording area. I also like recording boxes like this microphone foam booth cube or this Microphone Isolation Shield (with Tripod stand).
Get ready to record and edit
Now that you’ve got your equipment sorted, let’s focus on bringing your podcast to life. Audacity is a fantastic free audio editing software that’s user-friendly and packed with features. It allows you to trim, edit, and enhance your recordings with ease. Plus, it’s compatible with both Windows and Mac, so anyone can use Audacity, no matter your computer preference. The extra perk: Audacity is free to use. So, if you’re podcasting on a budget and looking for great podcasting equipment for beginners, this is a great way to get started with recording and editing.
My personal favorite recording tool, however, is Adobe Audition. I’ve always loved using Adobe because it’s an accessible recording tool (with a subscription to Adobe Creative Cloud) that offers loads of professional recording and editing options.
Set up for interviews
If you’ll be recording interviews, you’ll want to figure out if you’ll need to record remotely or in-person. If in-person, tools such as the Rode RODECaster Pro II. Not cheap by any means, but it allows for multiple-person interviews (and does some pretty cool things with intro and outro music).
Another similar tool is the Zoom LiveTrak L-8 Podcast Recorder. These are both mixers that allow for simultaneous recording and comes with its own pack of preset sounds.
For a bit more budget-conscious podcasters, check out the Zoom PodTrak P4 Podcast Recorder, which comes with multiple inputs for headsets and microphones.
If you’re planning to record interviews virtually, I recommend Zoom, Zencastr,Streamyard, or Riverside. All of my interviews have been recorded virtually and Zoom has been a winner for me.
Pick up a great pair of headphones
Last but not least, don’t forget to invest in a good pair of headphones. The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is a crowd favorite. They deliver exceptional sound quality, comfort, and durability. Put these bad boys on, and you’ll feel like you’re in the studio, even if you’re recording from your cozy bedroom.
So there you have it, my friends. With this killer podcasting equipment, you’ll be ready to take on the world and share your stories, wisdom, and laughter with the world. Remember, your voice matters, and we can’t wait to hear you shine in 2023! Stay empowered, keep inspiring, and keep podcasting!
No doubt, if you’re curious about the podcasting industry (what it’s all about, and why you should start one), then you’re probably already knowledgeable about the answer to this one foundational question: “What is podcasting?” But…if you’re like some (who like to just cover your basics before you start your own), then that’s what this post is all about. Let’s dig into podcasting and what it’s all about!
So, what is podcasting exactly?
The nuts and bolts of podcasting
Here is where I’m going to get very technical. We’ll get the boring stuff out of the way, and then we’ll talk about benefits.
Podcasting is a method of distributing audio and sometimes video content over the internet, allowing users to subscribe and listen or watch on demand. Podcasts are typically hosted on a platform, such as a website or services like Apple Podcasts or Spotify, and can be downloaded or streamed directly to a device such as a smartphone, tablet, or computer. That’s basically what podcasting is in a nutshell. Pretty simple, right?
A few benefits of podcasting
Podcasts cover everything from news and politics to comedy and entertainment, and can be created by just about anyone, as well as organizations and businesses. They are often serialized, with new episodes being released regularly, and can be enjoyed at any time, making them a popular choice for on-the-go listening. That’s one of the benefits of podcasts (you’re not stuck at a desktop or laptop…take your fave podcast on the go with you!)
As a listener, I appreciate the versatility of a podcast. Many of my favorite podcasts get listened to while I’m grocery shopping or out running errands. The podcast hosts then become my go-to “life coach” of sorts. (Although I never paid for a coaching session, I feel especially loved from a distance as I receive “virtual coaching” from my favorite business podcasters who cover a topic I need at that exact moment of my life!)
As a podcaster, I can vouch that this is true for so many of my clients, women entrepreneurs at various stages of their podcasting journey who just need some extra support and motivation along their entrepreneurial journey. A lot of women have reached out to share with me how my podcasts have helped them so much in their lives, how they were about to throw in the towel and give up on their attempts to take another stab at business (or as on my homeschooling podcast, women who were struggling with their parenting or homeschooling journey). I’ve been told over and over again that my podcasts have helped them in some way or another…and they can’t wait to listen to the next episode. (I even had a few women tell me that they listen to each and every episode that I release! I was blown away by that level of commitment!)
What you need for listening to podcasts
Listening to podcasts is easy. To start listening to podcasts, all you need is a device and an internet connection.
You can find podcasts by searching online or using a podcast app, and subscribe to receive new episodes automatically as they are released. Many podcasts are also available for free, making them a great way to access a wide range of content without having to pay.
(Personally, I’ve found that making my podcasts available for free has helped me to build my businesses more quickly than charging for them. Although, at some point, I may start charging for a private podcast feed available for my coaching club members!)
What you need for creating good podcasts
Podcasting has become increasingly popular in recent years, thanks in part to the ease with which anyone can create and distribute their own content. The rise of smart speakers and voice-activated devices like Amazon’s Alexa and Google Home has also made it easier than ever to listen to podcasts, as listeners can simply ask their device to play the latest episode of a show.
If you’re interested in creating a podcast, you’re going to need a few basic pieces of equipment, including a microphone, headphones, and a computer. You’ll also need to find a hosting service that can store your audio or video files and distribute them to listeners. Some popular podcast hosting services include Soundcloud, Libsyn, and Anchor…
Here is a video I recorded a while back that can help you figure out what equipment you need to create podcasts.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8a_kGEKsOM8&t=55s
After you’ve asked yourself “What is Podcasting?”, here are a few basic things you’ll need to start your podcast.
1. Choose a topic or theme for your podcast.
Choose a subject that you’re knowledgeable about and that you’re passionate about. This will help you keep your content fresh and engaging.
2. Choose quality equipment
You’ll need a good-quality microphone and headphones to record and edit your podcast. Some popular microphones for podcasting include the Shure SM7B, the Rode NT1-A, and the Audio-Technica AT2020. I’ve personally used a Shure SM58 for over 10 years and recently switched to a Blue Yeti.
3. You’ll need recording software you’re comfortable with using.
You can use a digital audio workstation (DAW) like GarageBand (for Mac), Audacity (for Mac and Windows), or Adobe Audition to record and edit your podcast. (I prefer the Adobe Creative Cloud Suite).
4. You’ll need a hosting platform.
To distribute your podcast, you’ll need to host it on a platform such as Libsyn, Podbean, or Spreaker. You’ll also need to create an RSS feed, which is what allows your listeners to subscribe to your podcast. (Your RSS feed will be created using one of these platforms and will get your show distributed to Apple Podcasts, Spotify and more.)
5. You’ll need to market and promote your show.
To build an audience, you’ll need to promote your podcast through social media, guest appearances on other podcasts, and other marketing efforts.
6. And lastly, you’ll need consistency and dedication.
Finally, you’ll need to be consistent with your content and dedicated to growing your audience. This will take time, effort, and patience, but it will be worth it in the end.
Pick up your free podcasting checklist…
“What’s in it for me”?
You might be asking yourself this question if you’ve stumbled upon this post. First, you wanted to know “What is podcasting?”…just to be clear you understand what it is exactly before you ask the next pertinent question: How will podcasting be applicable in your situation?
And my answer is…it really all depends on what you want to get out of your podcasting adventures (and, yes, podcasting is an adventure). Podcasting can be a means to many ends, helping you to accomplish goals for yourself personally as well as for your business.
Work on your speaking and delivery skills without getting things perfect right away
Gives you space and time to get comfortable with your topic, learn more, and grow into it as you create new content
Adds an extra layer of personal touch and vulnerability that can attract your listeners to you over and over again
Adds to your credibility with your network and search engines
There are enough benefits to help me in my personal AND business life, which is why I’ve chosen to keep podcasting (after 17 years!)
Get started with your own podcast
I’m definitely very excited about the growth of podcasting post-2020. I’ve definitely seen a boom in the industry in recent years (probably largely due to so many people being homebound during 2020). Podcasting is only rising and becoming more of a norm. It doesn’t take much to start your podcast with confidence.
Now that we’ve answered the question “What is podcasting?”, if you are interested in starting a podcast of your own, check out my podcast coaching services and see how my team and I can help you get started on your podcasting journey within two weeks! I hope we’ll have the opportunity to work together.
If this post has been helpful to you, leave a note in the comments. I’d love to hear from you.
If you are looking around the web for podcasting equipment for beginners, you’re likely to find a myriad of articles and advice on this topic. On this episode, I aim to share with you some tools that have helped me get started in podcasting for about 17 years and are your basic foundations for finding the right equipment and tools for you and your fabulous show!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8a_kGEKsOM8
Start With What You Have
This is my first piece of advice. If you have Audacity or Garageband and a condenser mic already on hand, then use it. Please don’t feel compelled to go out and buy a brand-new microphone or expensive editing software (unless, of course, you don’t have these tools on hand and need to get started right away). Even then, I suggest taking it easy on the front end when it comes to spending.
Upgrade To Pro When You Can
As I mentioned earlier, if you already have a few tools on hand, see if these can be useful for your podcast. If you find that your recording and editing arsenal are severely lacking, then upgrading to pro tools can help save the day (as well as help you to podcast confidently). Below are some tools that I like and recommend when selecting podcasting equipment for beginners.
Podcasting Equipment for Beginners (Tools I Like)
Here are some microphones and equipment I’ve either used or currently use.
