Wondering how to start a podcast for free? And what are the best podcast ideas you should really try? Many podcasters have expensive recording setups and fancy microphones, but if you want to start podcasting with little or no money then you have come to the right place.
Are you ready to start your journey of podcasting? Let’s begin!
What is Podcast?
Podcasts are an excellent medium to share opinions, ideas, and intimate conversations. Podcasting is basically the process of recording, creating, and publishing a podcast show. Also, you can record in a traditional studio setting, on location, or remotely online. Many creators choose to livestream or repurpose live content for their podcasts.
A podcast can be many various things, and it all depends on the creator, YOU. A podcast can be:
- One person speaking into a microphone or even in their phone’s mic
- Two friends or a group.
- Serious, energetic, intellectual, funny, sarcastic, quirky, or a little bit of everything.
Why Should You Start Podcasting:
There are numerous great reasons to start a podcast, the most common ones are listed below:
- Audience Reach: The most thriving podcasts reach millions of listeners. It is a relatively less expensive way to build a following.
- Build credibility in your industry or niche: Podcasting offers you a great platform to establish your voice within an area. By podcasting, you can share your experience and expertise with the audience in an interactive way.
- Generates another stream of income or revenue: Podcasting can be a powerful way to sell your services or products.
- Builds Network: Through podcasting, you can explore and meet people who are interested in what you discuss. Also, they can help you expand your business or career.
- Have Fun: It’s not necessary to have a specific monetization goal or business to start a podcast. You can start recording purely for entertainment and fun.
How To Start A Podcast For Free?
Starting a podcast for beginners can be quite tricky. So we have got you a step-by-step guide that can help you if you are wondering- How to start a podcast for free.
Follow these simple steps to start your podcast today:
1. Sign Up For A Free Account
Start by simply setting up a free podcast hosting account at RSS.com. The podcast setup includes adding an email address, selecting a password, and clicking “Launch Your Podcast For Free.” The next step is to verify your email with a code sent immediately to the email you just used to sign up.
Now click on the “New Podcast” Button and start adding the podcast details. Add the title of your podcast, description, cover art, category, and the language of your podcast show. Then click “Next” and start recording your first episode.
Your free podcast website has been set up. Now, it’s time to add your very first episode by choosing “New Episode” from the dashboard. Now, add a title, description, season, and number of the episode. Also, you have to add a few keywords to help the podcast get found in the podcast directory. Now it’s time to upload your episode’s audio file. Starting a podcast 101 is easy; supported formats are MP3 and MP4a.
Now you have the answer to how to start a podcast for free. But now, the most important thing is whether you want to publish your episode now or schedule it for later. It totally depends upon you. The next step is to let the world know about your podcast. The simplest way to get your show in front of many potential listeners is to submit your first podcast RSS to significant podcast directories.
Here are some of the most popular directories:
- Spotify
- Apple Podcasts
- Google Podcasts
- Pandora
- Amazon Music and Audible
- Stitcher
- Podcast Index
- iHeart Radio
- TuneIn Radio
What Is Required To Start A Podcast For Free in 2024?
It is important to look at those things that are required to start a podcast for free.
You cannot begin a podcast if you don’t have an idea or a plan. Planning is necessary for what your podcast is going to be about. Also, how are you going to format it, and what are the things you are going to record? The three thighs which you have to keep in mind are passion, preparation, and consistency.
You will require a desktop, mobile phone, or laptop to record, produce, and publish a podcast.
If you’re beginning your journey as a podcaster, chances are you do not have an external mic. You can use your computer’s built-in microphone or your phone to record. However, in the long run, you may experience lower-quality recordings.
If you want to create a video podcast, you can use your computer’s built-in camera. You can also use the webcam which you use for your work. Additionally, you can use an iPhone’s camera to shoot in 4k quality.
A podcast recording software is absolutely important. This is essential for capturing your audio and positively including remote guests in your recording session. Fortunately, there are numerous free and inexpensive paid tools out there, like Garageband, Riverside, etc.
The last thing you need is a free podcast host. A podcast helps to distribute and host storing your podcast episodes. There are numerous free podcast hosts, such as Anchor. It gives insights into your podcast’s performance and helps to monetize it.
How To Start A Podcast For Free In 2024?
Starting a podcast for free is not only possible but also easy and simple. There is a common misinterpretation that podcasting costs a hefty amount. But in reality, beginning a podcast is not that tough. Additionally, the quality will not be sacrificed. In this complete step-by-step guide, we will tell you how to start a podcast for free.
Before jumping to record your first episode, it is important to devote some time to ideation and planning. Though you might be thinking that it is a boring process, it can surely help you to benefit in the long run. There are some really good podcast ideas all over the internet, including entertainment, relationships, health, religion, etc.
2. Find The Perfect Spot For Recording
The next very important step is to find a recording space. Don’t worry, it’s not important to record high-quality audio or to have a fully sound-treated studio. However, finding the perfect space is essential to achieve that flawless recording of audio.
3. Sign Up For The Free Podcasting Host Or Tool
The next step is to sign up and create an account with the chosen podcast host and recording tool. Your podcast host will ask you to fill in some information about your cover art, description, and name.
It is essential to look for all the things before recording a podcast. Setting up helps to see that everything is working perfectly without having any issues. It is also important to take time to make yourself comfortable with the recording tools and their features.
5. Start Recording Your First Episode
After setting up everything, it is time to record your first episode. You need to make yourself really comfortable and calm and enjoy the recording session.
6. Edit Your Podcast Recording
When you are finally done with recording, it is time to get the raw recording ready to publish. You can use some integrated tools to get your podcast publication ready in no time. You can also choose a free tool.
7. Upload To A Podcast Host And Distribute
Next, it’s time to upload your first recording to a podcast host and distribute it. You might need to provide some more information or fill out distribution forms for particular listening platforms. Some hosts also automatically do it for you.
8. Promoting Your Podcast Episode
Once your podcast is live, it is important to do some work to promote it. Reach out to your network and ask them to share it with their friends. It is also important to be proactive with your podcast’s social media.
Though this is not a very important step, you can also choose to monetize the content to begin making money from the podcast. Your podcast may offer you integrated monetization features such as subscriptions or dynamic advertising. You can also set up a third-party Patreon account to accept donations from the listeners.
10. Be Consistent
We hope that you have got your answer to how to start a podcast for free. However, there is one last thing that you have to do. Being consistent is the most important thing. You have to be disciplined and consistent with your workflow.
Topics To Talk About On A Podcast- Podcast Ideas
Some good podcast topics are:
- Government and Politics
- True Crime
- Pop Culture, Entertainment, and the Arts
- Relationships and Self-help
- History
- Sports
- Finance and Money
- Religion
- Comedy
- Health
- Technology and Science
Podcast topics for young adults:
- Product reviews
- Music
- Digital Marketing
- Entrepreneurship
- Event Planning
- Creative Writing
- Fashion
How To Make Money Podcasting?
There are several ways to monetize your podcast and make active and passive income podcasting. Yes, you heard that right!
Here are some methods to monetize your podcast:
- Advertising and Sponsorship: Several podcast hosting companies have their ad network. However, if you have a vast audience, you can get sponsored by companies directly.
- Online Courses: You can sell online courses on Udemy, Teachable, etc.
- Affiliate Marketing: For a small targeted audience, making money through affiliate marketing is possible.
- Donations and Crowdfunding: Ask your listeners to donate and support you and your podcast. Some common platforms that accept donations are Podfan, Patreon, and Buy Me a Coffee.
- Exclusive Content: Share exclusive content generating a private link to your paying audience. This is a great way to boost any membership program. However, this model requires a paying tool.
Why Do You Need Podcast Hosting?
Using podcast hosting is not necessary but is recommended. This is because it makes the podcaster’s life much easier. Check out the reasons below to know why podcast hosting is essential:
To Store Big Media Files
Podcast hosting platforms help you to store your podcast’s media files. Normally, podcast recordings have huge files requiring substantial storage bandwidth and space.
Makes Easier Podcast Distribution
Podcast hosting platforms greatly simplify podcast distribution by offering you an RSS feed. Distribution is the release of the episodes to the podcast directories of your choice and your listeners.
To Grow Your Podcast
Podcast hosting does much more than simply storing and distributing your podcast. Most prominent hosting sites come with several features designed to help you flourish in your podcasting journey.
To Analyze Your Podcast’s Performance
Podcast hosting platforms offer insightful analytics and data about podcast performance and more. This helps you to manage your content effectively.
Best Free Podcast Hosting Platforms:
How to start a podcast for free with the best podcast hosting platforms? If you are finding the answer to this question, you are in the right place. Here are some of the best podcast hosting services that are totally free, including:
- Buzzsprout
- Podbean
- Spreaker
- Anchor
- Acast
- Soundcloud
- RedCircle
Pros and Cons Of Podcasting:
To have a better idea of the realities of podcasting, it is important to know the advantages and disadvantages of starting a podcast:
Pros Of Podcasting:
- Simple and Easy: Getting started with podcasting is very simple. You don’t need to have any experience with podcasting or recording equipment. This is an extremely accessible medium for everyone.
- Affordable: Even if you have less budget, you can easily start your podcast. You can also start it for free. How to start a podcast for free? We have already given in-depth information about it above. Don’t forget to check that out.
- Competitive Edge: In this growing and evolving world, podcasting can be a major factor in maintaining a competitive edge. Make sure your voice is as loud as your competitors to make a huge impact on yourself.
- Growing impact: Podcasting is growing increasingly. Starting your podcasting journey early will surely benefit you in the coming years.
- Additional Revenue: As monetization methods for podcasting expand and grow, the chances for a great ROI boost too.
Cons Of Podcasting:
- Number of Podcasts: There are approximately 200 million podcasters around the world. It can stop you from entering this journey, but if you are consistent and dedicated enough, then nothing will ever stop you.
- Consistency: To hit the number one chart, it is necessary to be consistent with your work. You have to dedicate yourself fully. If you don’t have time and energy, your podcasting journey might not be as successful as you thought it would be.
- Monetization does not mean profit: Last but not least, if you are looking for a way to make money through podcasting, it is essential to know that monetization does not always mean a huge income.
Final Words:
We hope that we have given a clear answer to how to start a podcast for free comprehensively. You can start your journey of podcasting for free and also with a tight budget. Keep your target audience engaged, find new ways to earn some money down the road, and use your unique voice and creativity to let the world know that you are the real star here. So, grab a microphone, hit the record button, and delve into the exciting world of podcasting!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- How do I start a podcast with no money?
You can start your podcasting journey for free with unique ideas, a perfect spot, a hosting tool, podcasting equipment, and also being consistent.
- Does it cost money to start a podcast?
If you are starting a podcast as a hobby, it can cost around $100-$350, while podcasting as a business can cost from $500-$5,000.
- What is the best platform to start a podcast for free?
There are many platforms where you can start a podcast for free, including Spotify, Acast, Pinecast, Podomatic, and many more.
- Do podcasters make money?
There are many ways in which podcasters can make money, including advertising, affiliate marketing, online courses, donations, crowdfunding, and many more.
