How can you start your own podcast?

January 25, 2024

With the number of podcasts out there, you may be starting to think you could create your own. But how much work is really involved in being a master of the mic?

If there’s ever been the time to start a podcast, now is it. People are chewing through audio content with insatiable hunger—listening to podcasts on their walks, in the car, at the gym, and just about anywhere else you can take wireless headphones.

The audience is there. And, thanks to modern technology, the host of the next big hit could be you.

Sure, I want to host a podcast. But how to start?

You need to have something to say. Your own unique podcast idea.

Think about the podcasts you listen to and ask yourself: what do you get out of listening to them? You can likely categorise them by what they offer you as the listener.

Chances are, they fall under one of the following categories: entertainment, information or education.

Will the topic you want to talk about entertain, inform, or educate? If so, you may just be onto something.

How podcast stuff works

Once you’ve got a winning idea, it’s time to think about the practical side of things. Essentially, creating a podcast involves planning, recording, uploading and—if you’re lucky, monetising. Making money from a podcast, that is.

Planning your topics

A topic or general direction for your podcast is a great place to start. But you’ll need to ensure that your idea has legs. Meaning, it’ll need to have enough complexity to create episode after episode. After all, podcasts are serial in nature.

Sit down with a notepad and pen—there's no need for audio equipment just yet. Now, map out every topic you can think of that’s somewhat related to your initial idea. You might want to set yourself a timer for your brainstorm. Go crazy for five to ten minutes.

How many ideas did you come up with? If you’ve got at least six, that’s enough for a series. Anywhere up to 12 is even better.

For example, you may want to podcast on the body positivity movement. Your episodes could span such ideas as intuitive eating, how to practice self-care, the diet industry through the ages, and so on. Each episode covers one individual idea. This set of subtopics creates a podcast season. 

Need inspiration? Look up what people are asking about your topic on Reddit, Quora or social media, ask ChatGPT for some thought-starters, or browse the questions people also ask on Google. 

Recording episodes

Now that you have your plan for success in motion, you can confidently purchase podcast equipment knowing that you’ll get some good use out of it. But what do you need to create a podcast?

Essential podcast equipment

A laptop or computer

A microphone

Headphones

Audio editing software

Monetising your hard work

Even if you plan to get into the podcast game for the enjoyment of it, you might as well see whether you can make a pretty penny from the hours you spend recording.

“Wait, I can make money from people listening to me rattle on?”

Well, first things first, you won’t be rattling on (that’s where your topic planning comes in!). Secondly, yes, you can.

Podcasters make money in a variety of ways—from running paid commercials on their programs, to encouraging listeners to subscribe for a monthly fee using platforms such as Patreon.

Another avenue to consider is creating and selling merchandise featuring your podcast name or logo for listeners to wear, such as t-shirts and hoodies through sites like Redbubble.

It’s worth noting though, that while you establish your podcast, it might be best to offer your program for free. Introducing advertising or a payment system down the line allows you to establish an audience first.

How many podcast listeners do I need to make money?

This depends on which of the above avenues you use to monetise your podcast. According to podcast hosting platform Castos, you probably won't start to see much money until you get at least 1,000 downloads per episode. 

In the early days, you may not see anything coming in from your podcast. And that’s okay. Building an audience is a long-term game. And for many, hosting a podcast is enjoyable above all else.

Depending on the topic you choose to discuss, podcasting also offers you the chance to network, meet new professionals, promote yourself and further your career. Some of the value you experience won’t be monetary.

Podcast training courses

If you’ve read this far, chances are you’re serious about making your own podcast. So why not invest in a podcast training course?

Podcast training courses are online programs that allow you to learn from the best of the best—taking you through everything you need to know, from coming up with a podcast idea through to uploading your podcast and making money from your newfound hobby.

The Podschool is a great place to start for podcast courses and it's run by Australian media superstar Rachel Corbett. You may have seen her on The Project, along with other news and radio shows.

If you want to gain the ultimate podcaster skillset, you can study a digital media course online through Open Universities Australia. You'll cover topics like audio writing, journalism, interviewing, entrepreneurship and social media. Everything a good podcaster needs in their arsenal!