It might feel like there’s a podcast being produced by everyone in the world. But as one of the most popular forms of online content, there’s always room for more. With so many platforms for uploading and sharing original podcasts, what better way to earn yourself some side money than recording yourself or a group discussing the things that you know the most about? Podcasts can be great fun to create, but they could also become the side hustle that you never knew you needed in your life. With money to be made and fun to be had, here are some great tips for getting up and running and sharing your voice with those that share your interests.
Subject Choice
Your first step is to work out what your podcast is going to be about. The options are endless! It’s going to take some work to launch and run your podcasts, so it’s a good idea to choose a subject that you are passionate about. If you can talk forever about comics or films, aim for those subjects, and the more that you can find a niche that nobody else is talking about, the better. Make sure that you have an audience in mind so that you’ll know where to post your finished content.
Think about Branding
Once you’ve got your subject matter sorted, you need to start thinking about your brand personality. This will be very dependent on you and any other people that you’re creating your podcast with. If you’re all shouty and angry, then embrace that style and make it part of your logo design, soundbites, and format. If you’re more academic, this will affect the way that you promote yourself and network. Give thought to branding and your podcast will have more impact.
Get the Equipment
You can start off a podcast with only the barest minimum, but the better tech that you can get, the more professional your podcast will sound. Microphones and editing software are going to be vital, and if you’re adding a video element to your podcast then you’re going to need video editing software and cameras as well. This stuff can be expensive, so you’re also going to need to get your tech insured as well. Look at providers like Insurance Geek so that you can recoup your losses if your tech breaks or gets lost or stolen.
Plan your Episodes
Don’t think that you can click record and get an hour’s worth of high-quality content just by hoping for the best. Have a structure plotted out, with as many notes as possible about subjects and discussion points. Podcasts are all about personality, and if you spend more time talking about what to talk about next then you’re going to have more people turning you off than listening to the end. Have a show plan and a schedule, and only then should you click ‘record’.
Once you have your edited podcast all ready, you then have the fun of sharing it with others. Take the time to chat with people and respond to comments. Take on board any constructive criticism and start thinking about building a community. Get your engagement right and your podcast could become the income generator you always dreamed of.
