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There are a few different routes you can go to record your podcast. It’s always an option to get one advanced microphone and have it in the room while you record into a computer. This will not result in the best sound quality but it will do the job if you cannot get the full gear. We use the Blue Yeti USB Microphone which many podcasts use.
If you’re looking to invest in gear you will need:
Spotify & iTunes
Royalty free music is a great way to frame intros, outros, and transitions. If you use copyright music, it will be taken down. Fair warning, it may take a long time to search for the perfect music. Also make note if you need to credit the source in show notes.
Resources:
I always send my podcast guests a one-sheet to breakdown the recording experience, including:
Try to record in a small room if possible. If one is not available, put up foam boards around glass areas or windows. Make sure you’re not typing and try not to move around or drink since mics will pick up anything. Warn others outside your room you are recording.
No matter the microphone setup, you will record directly into the editing software.
Keep watch of the time while recording but in a subtle way to not distract your guest. Try to wrap up a few minutes before your time so you give your guests a chance to plug themselves or give any last statements.
One of the best editing softwares out there (and FREE!) is Audacity. It’s very easy to use and has a lot of great basic effect editing needed to create a podcast. It’s available for both Windows and Mac.
You can have multiple tracks for adding underlay music or other recordings. It will export to a MP3, WAV, and a few others.
While you want the recording to feel natural, I find it’s best to omit some “ummms” and too long of pauses as you edit. Always add fade-ins and fade-outs for music intros and outros — they should never stop abruptly. I would suggest recording an intro you will reuse every time you create a new episode.
Adobe Audition is also a great option if you have creative suite. It’s a little more onboarding to use but has much more functionality.
Garageband is another good option, however like this article mentions, it was meant for music so there’s a whole lot of features you will not need and can slow down the onboarding process. The article will take you through how to utilize for podcasting.
While you might hear people groan “does the world need another podcast?” The answer is the world doesn’t have the one created by you with your unique worldview and perspective. It’s a great creative outlet and way to connect with people outside of normal location constraints. We’ve recorded over 50 hours with mental health professionals and those who have gone through some form of therapy. For me, it’s become my own research project and way to meet new people who’ve expanded my learning. Do you and hit record!