Thinking a podcast might be the next thing for your biz? Are you great at interviewing people? Confident in conversation? Have tons of value and information to give to the world? Then its probably time to start a podcast. Podcasts are a great way to provide and receive information in today’s busy world. People can listen on the train, in the car, at the gym, basically anywhere you would be with your headphones!
Here is a quick overview of what you need to know to start your podcast.
1. Branding + Value
Make sure with every interview you do, you are providing value and are staying true to your brand and topic. It's ok to go a little side tracked, but if your biz revolves around health and wellness, then discussing the economic market would not be what your prospective listeners would be tuning into hear.
2. Quality
Not only should your content be of high quality and value, but so should your interviews in every episode. You want a clear feed with no cutting in and out, fuzzy spots, etc. Invest in a good microphone and a fast internet connection.
3. Your Host
Yes, you are the host, but you need a service to host your podcast. From my research and feedback from fellow entrepreneurs Libsyn and Soundcloud seem to be the most popular. The word on the street is that Libsyn takes the cake with tracking your downloads and might be the one to go with out of the two. There are more hosting methods, so do your research and find one that works best for you.
4. Name Game
That’s right, you get to name your podcast as well as each episode. This is where you can get creative. You may want to test some of your names/ideas our on some of your clients, or prospective listeners to see what they are into. It also helps them feel involved with the process and increases the likely hood that they will download. With the name, you can now create a banner/logo/imagery/brand. I recommend using Canva, its free and very easy to use!
5. Link to iTunes
An important step, once you’ve completed your podcasts, interviews, etc. is linking to iTunes. I recommend you complete at least three before you officially launch so that you can be featured under “New & Noteworthy” and get some exposure. You will need to send your RSS Feed Code to iTunes; this can be found in the host service which you will send to iTunes so you can be OFFICIAL! When you are planning your launch, keep in mind that it takes 1-2 days for iTunes to approve your podcast.
6. Get the Word Out
Finally, you’ve got to get people downloading, listening and coming back for more! Marketing will help you with this, through your Instagram, Facebook, wherever you fee is suitable for your biz. On Lipsyn you can track which episodes are more popular than others so you can do more on certain topics that are getting more listeners. Find a medium that makes sense for your biz.
If you’re ready to start a podcast and want to chat about interview ideas, scripts, or your marketing plan than let’s collab! I would even be happy to be an expert on your show if it makes sense for your brand. Reach out!
