How to Start a Podcast: The Ultimate Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

If you’ve ever wanted to know how to start a podcast, now would be the perfect time to do it. The medium is hotter than it’s ever been and continues to grow at a lightning-fast pace.

Moreover, people often prefer listening to audio content over reading it.

Wondering how to start a podcast? You have come to the right place.

Podcasting in 2025 is a great way to share your voice, connect with a niche audience, and even grow a business. With over 460 million active podcast listeners worldwide, there’s never been a better time to launch your podcast. The good news? You don’t need expensive equipment or a broadcasting degree—just a clear message and the right approach.

Whether you’re looking to start a podcast for fun, marketing, or monetization, this guide is a great place to start. You’ll learn everything from planning and recording to publishing and promoting your show.

Follow these step-by-step instructions, and soon, you’ll be on your way to running a successful podcast!

Below is a list of steps to start your own podcasting journey this year.

How to Start a Podcast in 9 Easy Steps

• Step #1: Choose a topic you love
• Step #2: Pick a podcast title
• Step #3: Write a sound description
• Step #4: Get your artwork created
• Step #5: Pre-plan your episodes
• Step #6: Pick your podcast hosting provider
• Step #7: Prepare and make a recording
• Step #8: Publish an episode
• Step #9: Submit to directories

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Jump to Step #1: Choose a topic you love

Step #1: Choose a Topic You’re Passionate About

Choosing the right topic is the foundation of a successful podcast. If you’re thinking about podcasting, start by focusing on a subject you genuinely enjoy and know well. While it’s possible to start a podcast on any topic, choosing one that aligns with your passion makes content creation easier and more engaging for listeners.

Avoid starting a podcast without a clear niche—your audience tunes in for valuable insights, so pick a subject that keeps them coming back. Once you’ve identified your niche, you’re already one step closer to launching a podcast that stands out.

Step #2: Choosing the Perfect Podcast Title for Success

Your podcast title is the first thing potential listeners see, making it a key factor in attracting the right audience. A well-crafted title should reflect your podcast’s theme, be easy to remember, and include relevant keywords to improve search visibility. If you’re learning how to start a podcast, think about how your title fits with your podcast description and branding. It should also be unique enough to secure social media handles and a domain name, making it easier for listeners to find you on popular platforms.

There are three main options to choose a title for your podcast:

The clever name

You must think of an apt title for your show that is catchy yet understandable at the same time. Remember that people should be able to locate it when they search for information about your chosen topic. You must also try to incorporate a description into the title since, without great content, there will be no point in a title, no matter how good it is.

The descriptive name

It means you can simply name the show for what it is about. For example, a personal trainer’s podcast could be called ‘The Fitness Podcast,’ which perfectly highlights the niche of the podcast. But you must avoid using long names because you will be saying the name quite often in your podcast.

Using your name

This is the perfect method of naming your podcast, but only if you already have a large audience. If your podcast is based on a historical topic and you use your name in the title, the audience will think, who is that? And move past your podcast.

Step #3: Writing an Engaging Show Description

Your podcast description is the first thing listeners see, so make it clear, engaging, and true to your show. It should represent your podcast and highlight what makes it worth listening to.

If you’re learning how to start a podcast, a strong description helps attract the right audience. Focus on what your show offers—whether it’s insights, stories, or expert advice. Keep it simple and to the point.

An excellent podcast stands out when the description is natural, informative, and easy to read. Use relevant keywords wisely, and if you have credentials, mention them briefly. Value your podcast by making its purpose clear from the start.

Step #4: Turn Your Ideas into Captivating Audio Content

Engage your audience by transforming your ideas into compelling audio content. A well-structured podcast, paired with quality sound and engaging storytelling, can help you stand out on platforms like Apple Podcasts. Make every episode count by delivering value, authenticity, and a unique perspective that keeps listeners coming back.

For best results, follow platform guidelines:

• Apple Podcasts & Spotify: 1400 x 1400 to 3000 x 3000 pixels, JPEG or PNG, 72 dpi, RGB color.
• Keep it simple & clear: A clean design stays recognizable even when resized.
• Stay on brand: Use colors and fonts that match your podcast’s theme.

Invest in a good logo—it’s a small step that makes a big impact on your podcast’s success.

Step #5: The Importance of Pre-Planning Your Episodes

Pre-planning is an essential part of podcasting since creating them can be a very stressful process. Every podcast must be pre-planned with a tailored approach to make sure that the quality remains consistent throughout the entire show.

Here are some things that you must keep in mind when planning an episode for your podcast:

Pick a podcast topic

Selecting the right podcast topic is crucial for keeping your audience engaged and ensuring your first podcast stands out. Choose a subject you’re passionate about and knowledgeable in, as this makes content creation more natural and enjoyable.

Research similar podcasts to see what’s trending and identify gaps you can fill. Understanding listener preferences will help you craft episodes that provide real value. Organizing your ideas through well-structured show notes can also enhance your delivery and keep your discussions on track.

A strong topic sets the foundation for a successful podcast—make sure it’s something you can sustain long-term while keeping your audience interested.

Choose a podcast format

The structure of your podcast is critical. Here are a few podcast formats to choose from:

Interview style –

•  This is the most popular format these days as each episode introduces the listener to exciting and inspirational people from a specific niche. The format is generally unscripted and free-flowing and requires minimum editing.

News and current events show –

• This format focuses on sports, politics, technology, or any other hot topic that lets you provide non-stop fresh content to your listeners.

Multi-host show –

• A podcast with more than two people creates intrigue and can be highly entertaining with a conversational tone. There will be less pressure on you since the responsibility of presenting great content to your audience is divided among all hosts.

Solo style –

• In these podcasts, you can tell a story in each episode that is relevant to the topic of your podcast. It could be in any tone as long as the content is educational or motivational. By occasionally inviting a guest on the show, you can entice the audience and engage them in your podcast.

Determine the podcast length

The length of your podcast can make or break listener retention. Most podcasts run between 20 to 40 minutes, as this fits into daily routines like commuting. However, the ideal duration depends on your audience and content.

Rather than sticking to a set length, focus on keeping your episodes engaging and valuable. Some topics may require deeper discussion, while others work best when kept short. Test different lengths and track listener feedback to see what resonates.

Consistency helps set expectations, but flexibility allows you to adapt. In the end, a successful podcast isn’t about duration—it’s about delivering quality content that keeps listeners coming back.

Podcast schedule

Establishing a consistent podcast release schedule is crucial for building and maintaining your audience. Regularly publishing new episodes keeps your listeners engaged and anticipates your content. Statistics indicate that podcasts releasing episodes every 8 to 14 days constitute 40% of the podcasting landscape, suggesting that a bi-weekly schedule is both manageable for creators and expected by audiences. By adhering to a predictable release pattern, you make your podcast a reliable part of your listeners’ routines, fostering loyalty and sustained growth.

Step #6: Choosing the Best Podcast Hosting Provider

To make your podcast visible in the digital space, you need to sign up with a hosting company. These are platforms that store your files and provide access to your listeners so that they can download and subscribe to your podcast.

Podcast hosting platforms provide different features and options, but they all follow similar methods to store audio files.

To select the right service, you need to evaluate five criteria that will help your podcast grow.

These features include:

• Storage capabilities
• Website integrations
• Audience analytics
• Monetization support
• Social sharing features

The cost and subscription fee of each hosting service differs according to the features it provides. For perks like unlimited storage or a web domain, you may have to pay more than the usual fee.

Here are some of the most popular and reliable options for your podcast:

BuzzSprout

BuzzSprout is simply the best podcast hosting platform out there, which makes things easy for all new podcasters. It has a simple dashboard and interface that allows you to get your podcast up and running in no time.

BuzzSprout possesses all of the features that you need to advertise your podcast content on the Internet. Its basic plan starts at $12 a month. BuzzSprout also offers a free option that hosts episodes for 90 days.

PodBean

PodBean is another podcasting solution with ideal tools to help you in all stages of podcast production. Offering great pricing plans and easy-to-use features for new podcasters, you cannot go wrong with this service.

With $9 per month that is billed annually, you get access to unlimited storage and bandwidth, website domain, comprehensive listener analytics, and an iPhone or Android app.

Transistor

This is a relatively new podcast hosting company that has quickly made quite a name for itself. Other than hosting your audio files, Transistor has excellent tools for podcast monetization and analytics. In addition to this, you can also host multiple podcasts, customize your player, and create a beautiful website.

With Transistor’s primary focus being on growing your audience, it lets you import your podcast from a different podcasting platform without any difficulty. It also allows you to test their features with a free 14 – day trial, after which it charges users $19 – $99 per month.

Feel free to check out our best podcast hosting guide if you want to explore more options.

Step #7: Step-by-Step Guide to Recording Like a Pro

Recording high-quality podcasts require effort and preparation both for the content and to set up audio/video for a podcast.

Preparing a plan

Before you set up your podcast, start with a clear plan. Knowing what your audience wants helps you create engaging episodes that keep your podcast growing.

Outline key topics, answer common questions, and organize your ideas. You don’t need a full script, but a solid structure will make recording easier and more professional. A well-planned podcast keeps listeners coming back for more!

Creating an episode script

Planning your podcast creation workflow is key to a smooth and engaging episode. Some podcasters use detailed scripts to stay on track, while others prefer a simple outline for a more natural flow. Too much structure can sound stiff, but too little may lead to rambling.

A good approach is to start with a full script and adjust as you gain confidence. Over time, you’ll find the right balance that keeps your content clear and engaging. No matter your style, having a plan is an important part of your podcast journey.

Recording equipment

To record a high-quality podcast, you require the best podcast recording equipment. There are many things you can purchase to create a podcast without spending huge amounts of money.

Here’s all that you need to start a podcast:

Microphone –

• A good podcast mic is key to clear, professional audio. While any mic can record, a high-quality one makes a big difference in listener experience. If you’re just starting, a USB microphone is an easy and reliable choice. Options like the Shure MV7 offer both USB and XLR connections, making them great for beginners who need to podcast with flexibility.

Digital recorders –

• These devices come in handy when you are recording a podcast with other people in person since it’s hard to record with more than one USB microphone plugged into a single computer. The audio files will be automatically organized and stored on a memory card, which you can then access from your computer.

Computer–

• Any Windows computer or Mac will work to record, edit, and upload the podcast. If you choose to record directly onto your computer, it must have the right ports for USB microphones.

Headphones –

• These are an essential piece of hardware in your podcast setup that helps you to listen to the recordings so that you can know what exactly you sound like. They can also let you identify areas of improvement and things you can change to improve the overall quality of your podcast. Headphones are also used for phone calls if you receive calls on a podcast to engage with your audience.

Recording and editing software

Choosing the right recording and editing podcast software is key to producing a quality podcast. The right tools will help youedit your podcast smoothly and enhance its sound. Here are some of the best options to get started.

Adobe Audition –

• This is specially designed for podcast editing. It has advanced tools that include a background noise-reduction feature, advanced compression, and much more. It is a great podcast editing software. With a high-quality recording option on more than 32 tracks, there isn’t much this software can’t do.

Audacity –

• This is a cross-platform audio editing software with powerful features. People have been using the platform for decades since it is free to use for a limited time. You can use Audacity to record live audio through a microphone or digitize audio files from any other media. It gives you the option to create 16 – bit, 24 – bit or 32 – bit sound bites. The audio clips are easy to edit, as well. However, you cannot upload podcasts directly from the software onto a podcast hosting service.

GarageBand –

• This is a popular choice among podcasters since it provides a wide range of free podcast recording software features. You can take multiple recordings and select the best one to share with a podcast platform. The variety of plugins that the recording software offers allows you to learn how to make a podcast even more dynamic and appealing for the audience.

Getting music

Integrating music into the intro of each podcast episode helps to set your content apart and adds a bit of flair to it. These are usually short voice-overs with music that introduce the podcast, the host, or the tagline of your podcast. You can record it yourself or choose any royalty-free music available on the Internet.

Step #8: Publish Your First Episode Like a Pro

Publishing episodes means uploading audio files after editing them and providing all the necessary details with them. However, before uploading them onto a podcast host of your choice, you need to take care of a few things:

Edit the episode

Editing yourfirst podcast episode helps create a smooth and professional show. Start by trimming pauses, improving audio quality, and refining your podcast intro for a strong first impression. A well-edited episode keeps listeners engaged and ensures a polished final product.

Export your MP3

You need to publish your podcasts on a hosting service in an MP3 format, especially on platforms that have bandwidth restrictions. Some podcast hosts charge extra if you post bigger files. Hence, during the export process, you should keep your MP3 files as small as possible without compromising the quality. After exporting the MP3, you need to tag it with metadata, such as your podcast name, logo, description, and website URL. This will make sure that your audience gets all of the information that they need about your podcast.

Publish the episode

After converting your file into MP3 and selecting the right podcast hosting platform, you need to upload your podcast onto that hosting service. The host is the link between you and podcast directories such as iTunes and Google Podcasts. You can publish the podcast on the host, or you can schedule it to post on a later date.

Step #9: Submitting to Directories for Maximum Reach

After launching your podcast, it’s crucial to expand its reach by submitting your podcast RSS feed to various directories. This strategy enhances discoverability, allowing listeners to find, subscribe, and engage with your content across multiple platforms. Given the evolving podcast landscape, platforms like YouTube have emerged as dominant players, with over 1 billion monthly podcast viewers. 

While YouTube doesn’t support traditional RSS feeds, ensuring your podcast is available on other major directories remains essential. Here are some top directories to consider:

iTunes

iTunes is the largest podcast directory, so it should be your number one priority. With its powerful search ability and category system, iTunes is becoming increasingly popular for podcast distribution. It can showcase your podcast to new listeners and allows them to rate and review your show. Not only does it feature popular podcasts, but iTunes also provides rankings on new podcasts daily. This makes it an essential directory for your podcast show.

To learn more about the process of submitting your podcast to iTunes, you can refer to the FAQs below.

Spotify

This is another popular podcast platform that hosts many podcasts. Since there are so many people that already use Spotify for music, the podcasts that are submitted on Spotify have more chance of gaining traction and amassing a huge audience over time. It also gives you a great overview of who your audience is and what they are streaming, which will help you to plan your future episodes. Spotify was created for podcasters to get discovered, and with constant updates, this platform makes sure that more people listen to your show.

Since you already learned how to create a podcast, check our FAQ’s below to learn how to upload your podcast to Spotify.

Stitcher

Stitcher is the second-largest podcast directory and another excellent platform to allow for your podcast to be discovered by people. It is a mobile app only, therefore, to listen or publish podcasts here you need to have the app on your mobile device. Stitcher will give you access to millions of listeners and a chance to download statistics such as listening time or monthly active users. Many people listen to shows on the platform, making it key to your growth if you plan to stick with podcasting for a while.

Blubrry

This is a podcasting community that gives podcasters the power to make money, reach more audiences, gain access to listener analytics, and share audio or video podcasts. Blubrry has a remarkable digital interface where you can submit your podcast, and listeners can listen and subscribe to it. Listing your podcast on this platform will be considered beneficial, and even if you do not decide to get their services, you can make use of their free consultation.

SoundCloud

This is another platform tool for giving your podcast more exposure since it reaches 200 million unique listeners around the globe across all devices and platforms. SoundCloud has an agile player and subscription model that works perfectly for a podcaster trying to increase their audience. If your podcast is centered on a community and you get lots of interaction, this platform might be a good place to start.

Pocketcasts

Pocketcasts sets itself apart from other podcast directories with over 300,000 shows for listeners that can be searched by the name of the author. It has invested a lot in designing the platform to make the process of discovery easier for listeners. Moreover, it has done a great job of offering new options for podcast listeners who continuously look for unique shows. Therefore, as a podcaster, the platform provides the potential to gain access to a massive number of listeners and help listeners discover your content.

Debunking 3 Common Myths

Starting a podcast can be a daunting task. So, to put your mind at ease, let’s debunk the three most common podcasting myths that keep people from making their own podcast.

Podcasting is expensive

The cost of starting a podcast can vary, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Many beginners start with just a USB microphone, headphones, and free editing software like Audacity or GarageBand. You don’t need top-tier equipment to launch a great show. As your podcast grows and reaches a larger target audience, you can gradually upgrade your setup. Many successful podcasters started on a tight budget, proving that content quality matters more than expensive gear.

To podcast, you have to be a tech person

Starting a podcast doesn’t require extensive technical expertise. With user-friendly platforms like Anchor.fm, you can record and publish episodes directly from your smartphone. As your show grows, utilizing podcast analytics tools such as Podtrac or Spotify for Podcasters can provide valuable insights to help you understand your audience and expand your reach.

No one will listen to your podcast

Starting a podcast just to gain a huge audience or make money can lead to disappointment. With over 4.42 million podcasts in 2025, standing out takes more than just launching a show. To grow your podcast, focus on valuable content that connects with listeners. Using the right podcast app and actively promoting your podcast can help, but passion and consistency matter most. Keep delivering quality, and your audience will follow.

How to Start a Podcast: Key Takeaways and Next Steps

Starting a podcast is an exciting journey, but it all begins with a clear plan. Define the goal of your podcast, choose a compelling theme, and set up the right equipment to ensure high-quality recordings. As a podcast creator, it’s essential to get comfortable with your setup to avoid technical issues. Once you’ve recorded your first episode, upload it to a reliable podcast hosting platform and submit it to directories so listeners can find your podcast easily.

If you’re still wondering how to start a podcast, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. Follow these key steps, stay consistent, and watch your podcast grow!

Frequently Asked Questions