What is a podcast? A Soulful Guide to Starting Your Own Podcast

No doubt, if you’re curious about this thriving industry—what it’s all about, and why everyone seems to have a mic in front of them these days—you’ve probably asked yourself the question: what is podcasting?

Maybe you already know the basics. Maybe you’ve binged a few of your favorite shows and thought I could do this! Or maybe you’re just covering your bases before launching your own soulful podcast.

Either way, you’re in the right place. Let’s dig deep into this creative medium and answer the question what is podcasting—and why you should absolutely consider starting one of your own.

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So, What Is Podcasting Exactly?

At its core, podcasting is a method of distributing audio (and sometimes video) content over the internet. This allows people to subscribe to your show and listen (or watch) on demand—whether they’re commuting, working out, folding laundry, or grocery shopping.

A podcast is typically hosted on a podcast platform or website and can be streamed or downloaded to a device like a smartphone, tablet, or computer. Listeners tune in via apps like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or even smart speakers.

In other words, what is podcasting? It’s a flexible, on-demand, content-rich experience that lets your voice—and message—travel across the globe.

Here is a video I recorded a while back that can help you figure out what equipment you need to create podcasts.

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The Nuts and Bolts of Podcasting

Let’s get the technical part out of the way so we can talk about the juicy benefits (and why I believe this medium is made for soulful entrepreneurs and purpose-driven founders like you).

Podcasting = creating audio content → uploading it to a hosting platform → distributing it to podcast directories → reaching an audience.

And don’t worry—you don’t need a fancy studio to start. The barrier to entry is low, and with a little bit of heart, intention, and strategy, you can launch a professional-sounding podcast that builds trust and connection with your audience.

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A Few Benefits of Podcasting

You might be wondering—beyond the basic answer to what is podcasting—why should I invest my time and energy into creating one?

Here’s why:

👉 It’s personal and portable
Listeners can take your voice with them anywhere. Whether they’re walking their dog, driving to work, or meal prepping, your words become a companion in their day.

👉 It builds authentic relationships
As a podcaster, you have the power to create an intimate space where listeners feel connected to you and your message. Many of my listeners tell me they feel like I’m their life coach in their earbuds—and that kind of trust is priceless.

👉 It elevates your brand
Podcasting gives you a platform to showcase your expertise, tell your story, and build authority in your niche.

👉 It helps your audience on a deep level
As a podcast host for 17 years now, I’ve received countless messages from listeners who were ready to give up on their business or homeschooling journey—until they heard an encouraging word on one of my episodes.

What is podcasting if not a powerful tool for impact?

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What You Need for Listening to Podcasts

From the listener’s perspective, what is podcasting? It’s an accessible, easy-to-enjoy experience.

All you need is a device and an internet connection. You can listen through:

• Podcast apps (Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts)
• Websites (many podcasts have an embedded player)
• Smart speakers (Amazon Alexa, Google Home)

One of the best parts? Many podcasts are free, offering massive value without a paywall. Personally, making my podcasts free has helped me build trust and grow my businesses organically. (Though, private podcast feeds are a great option for premium content or coaching memberships!)

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What You Need for Creating Good Podcasts

Now, if you’re ready to flip to the other side of the mic and become the creator, here’s where the magic happens.

After you’ve asked yourself what is podcasting and gotten clear on your vision, here’s what you’ll need to bring your show to life:

1. Choose a Topic or Theme for Your Podcast

Pick a subject you’re passionate about and knowledgeable in. The more connected you are to your content, the more authentic and magnetic your podcast will be.

2. Choose Quality Equipment

You don’t need a $10k studio, but quality sound matters. Start with:

• Microphone: Blue Yeti, Shure SM7B, Rode NT1-A, or even a trusty Shure SM58 (which I used for 10+ years!)
• Headphones: To monitor your audio and edit precisely.

3. Recording Software

Use a DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) you’re comfortable with:

• GarageBand (Mac)
• Audacity (Mac & Windows)
• Adobe Audition (my personal favorite)

4. Hosting Platform

This is where your podcast files live:

• Libsyn
• Podbean
• Spreaker
• Anchor

Your hosting platform will generate an RSS feed to distribute your show to directories like Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

5. Marketing and Promotion

If a podcast drops but no one knows it exists…does it make an impact?

You’ll need to promote your show:

• Social media
• Guesting on other podcasts
• Collaborations
• Email marketing

6. Consistency and Dedication

Podcasting is a long game. Success comes from showing up, delivering value consistently, and refining your craft over time.

What is podcasting if not a journey of commitment, growth, and evolution?

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What’s In It for Me?

Now that you understand what is podcasting, you’re probably asking: how will it serve me and my business?

Great question. Here’s what podcasting has given me personally:

Professional Growth

Podcasting challenges me to continue learning and showing up as a leader in my space.

Deeper Connections and Networking

Podcasting opens doors to conversations, collaborations, and relationships I might not have formed otherwise.

Improved Communication Skills

Over time, I’ve become more comfortable speaking, thinking on my feet, and expressing my message clearly.

Space to Grow Into My Topic

Podcasting allows you to develop your voice and thought leadership organically, episode by episode.

Human Connection with Your Audience

Your podcast becomes a vehicle for authenticity. Your listeners will hear your heart—not just your marketing messages.

Added Credibility

Podcasting elevates your authority both with your community and search engines.

When people Google you or your business, having a podcast attached to your name signals leadership, commitment, and expertise.

For me, these benefits have been more than worth the time and energy I pour into my podcasts. Seventeen years later, I’m still podcasting—because the impact continues to multiply.

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Get Started with Your Own Podcast

Since 2020, podcasting has experienced a massive boom—and it’s not slowing down. The world is craving authentic, human-centered content—and there’s never been a better time to step behind the mic.

Now that we’ve thoroughly answered what is podcasting, you may feel inspired to launch your own show. If so, I’d love to help!

My team and I offer podcast coaching and launch services to help you create a soulful podcast that amplifies your voice and your mission. We can help you go from idea to launched show in just two weeks!

👉 [Learn more about our Soul Podcasting services here.]
👉 [Download your free Podcasting Checklist here.]

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Final Thoughts

So, to sum it up one more time: what is podcasting?

It’s an intimate, flexible, powerful medium that lets you connect with an audience in an authentic, lasting way. It’s a space where your voice, your story, and your heart can make an impact far beyond your local circle.

And it’s an adventure—one I believe every thought leader, entrepreneur, and mission-driven creator should consider taking.

Are you ready to start yours?

If this post inspired you, I’d love to hear from you. Leave a comment below and share what your podcast idea is—or reach out if you’d like support in bringing it to life. 🎙️

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Ready to get booked or need help prepping for your next interview?
At Soul Podcasting Collective, we help creatives and CEOs elevate their voice, clarify their message, and prepare for podcast interviews with confidence. Want support launching your media kit or practicing your story flow? Let’s co-create something powerful. Contact us here.