In recent years, podcasting has become an incredibly popular medium for sharing ideas, stories, and expertise. If you’ve been contemplating starting your own podcast, now is the perfect time to turn that idea into reality.
We’re partnering with the experts at Revl Studios for 5 essential steps to kickstart your podcasting journey and make a mark in the digital audio space.
Before we dive in, let’s pass the mic to Revl to learn more about them and their philosophy.
“It’s important to note that all input from the team at Revl Studios is derived from our branding framework, developed through an intensive study of the world’s leading brands during the unique circumstances of 2020. Amidst the global pandemic, we observed an unprecedented increase in media consumption, providing a rare opportunity to analyze evolving media trends and cultural behaviors.
Our approach, known as the TriStar Branding Framework, is the culmination of this analysis. It focuses on three key roles: Guide, Voice, and House of the Culture. This framework isn’t just a strategy; it’s our compass, guiding every decision we make with our clients, productions, and their audiences.
As a Guide, we offer clear and practical insights; as a Voice, we shape and lead conversations; and as a House, we build a community that unites both advocates and skeptics. This philosophy shapes all our responses and serves as the lens through which we view and tackle branding campaigns and productions.”
1. Define Your Podcast Concept and Audience
Before diving into the technical aspects, take some time to define your podcast’s concept and target audience. What topics are you passionate about? Who is your intended audience? Understanding these aspects will help shape the content of your podcast and make it more appealing to your target listeners.
When discussing defining the concept for a podcast in an over-saturated playing field with the team at Revl, they shared that in line with their TriStar Branding Principles, their approach to podcast development centers around ‘Setting the Stage.’ This means considering what elements we can introduce to foster an environment where the podcast’s concept can naturally thrive and resonate with its audience.
“For example, we’re developing a client’s podcast on mental health. Initially, the client, diagnosed with Bipolar affective disorder as an adult, was hesitant to host on camera due to potential impacts on her business and reputation. However, it became clear that her involvement was crucial for the podcast’s future.
The podcast explores her experiences with medication, its impact on personal relationships, and her journey towards replacing medication with daily habits for mental wellness. Her deep personal connection to the subject brings an authentic and nuanced perspective. This is how we ‘Set the Stage’ for a podcast to organically develop and connect with its audience, embodying our branding and production philosophy. We also explore intricate ideas to enhance the podcast’s ecosystem, such as integrating call-ins or incorporating activities during the podcast, like the host performing her daily practices. This interactive approach creates an environment where the conversation flourishes naturally and dynamically.”
2. Choose the Right Equipment
Quality audio is crucial for a successful podcast, so investing in the right equipment is key. Consider a reliable microphone, headphones, and audio interface. While purchasing equipment is an option, if you’re just starting, you might want to explore equipment rental options. Ampersand Studios, located in Miami and Nashville, is an excellent choice for podcasters. The Ampersand Studios Nashville space offers top-notch equipment rentals, ensuring your podcast sounds professional from the start.
Now, also consider an audio-only vs. audio and video experience for your audience. According to Revl, the latest data shows that 58% of podcast platform audiences prefer audio-only podcasts, likely because people often listen while multitasking. However, unless you’re creating an enhanced sonic experience, we believe audio-only podcasts are generally less efficient than video+audio podcasts or a hybrid approach. Video offers significant advantages, especially in how new podcasts are discovered – often through social media video clips shared by friends and family. Video files provide additional avenues for engagement that audio-only formats lack.
3. Plan and Structure Your Episodes
Effective planning and structuring can make a significant difference in the success of your podcast. Outline the format of your episodes, whether it’s interviews, solo discussions, or a combination of both.
Aim to discuss key topics, even if you leave room for exploration, but always tie it back to a central point or goal. Personal stories, no matter how trivial, as long as they make a point, are effective in captivating an audience. The team at Revl Studios often works with hosts to develop 2-3 stories that can be used to tie conversations back to a relevant point – “This is one of our most powerful tools.”
Create a consistent episode structure, including an engaging introduction, main content, and a memorable conclusion. Planning ahead will help you stay organized and maintain a steady flow of content.
4. Record and Edit Your Episodes
Once you have your concept, equipment, and plan in place, it’s time to hit the record button. When talking through this process with the team at Revl, they shared that in editing, their priority is to systemize post-production. Once a podcast is recorded, all files are uploaded to their cloud-based media library, accessible to both our team and clients, streamlining the editing process. They use Adobe Premiere Pro with a templated project file containing all guidelines and workflows.
Their promotional strategy is closely tied to their editing approach. The main edit of the show, featured on platforms like YouTube or Spotify, starts with a 10-20 second hook, creating a cliffhanger effect and providing a mental checklist of the episode’s content. They also adapt these hooks and highlights into social media video clips, allowing for quick and engaging sharing among friends and family, and facilitating new viewers to catch up to the show’s essence quickly.
5. Choose a Reliable Hosting Platform
To share your podcast with the world, you’ll need a reliable hosting platform. There are various options available, such as Libsyn, Podbean, or Anchor. Choose a platform that aligns with your needs and budget. Ensure it provides sufficient storage, analytics, and easy distribution to major podcast directories like Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Consistent and reliable hosting is crucial for building and retaining your audience.
Bonus: Utilize Ampersand Studios & Connect with the Experts at Revl Studios for a Professional Touch
For podcasters seeking a professional touch, Ampersand Studios offers state-of-the-art facilities and equipment rentals. Our recording studios provide podcasters with everything they need to produce high-quality content so you can focus on creating compelling episodes while leaving the technicalities in capable hands. You can connect with our partners at Revl via email at contact@revlstudios.com or Whatsapp at (+1 786-824-2040) or on Instagram.
Starting a podcast requires careful planning, quality equipment, and a reliable hosting platform. By following these 5 essential steps, you’ll be well on your way to launching a successful podcast. And for an added professional touch, consider exploring the services offered by Ampersand Studios. Happy podcasting!
