Podcasts have been booming. And with that growth has come a wealth of new content. So if you’re wanting to give podcasting a try but aren’t quite sure where to start, check out this podcast launch checklist designed specifically for new podcasters!
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What is a Podcast?
A podcast is a digital audio or video file that typically contains an episode or series from a radio show, television program, or Web series. It can also contain interviews, music, and spoken word performances.
I launched the Introvertpreneur podcast in February 2021, and it’s been an incredible ride!
With the increased popularity of podcasts and the integration with Apple Music and iTunes, there has been a lot of discussion surrounding whether podcasting is still “new” and if it’s becoming mainstream.
In some cases, those who have been working in the industry for years may claim that it has become mainstream, while others say it is still very much new.
Decide if You Need a Podcast
Podcasts are a great way to deliver your message and create an audience. Many people listen to podcasts while they go about their daily activities, like commuting or cleaning. In fact, a recent study found that people listen to more than two hours of content on average per day!
If you decide that you want to launch a podcast, the first step is to decide if it’s really for you. If you think that podcasting might be for you but aren’t sure if it will work with your current schedule, consider creating a part-time podcast until the time comes that you can commit to full-time.
While weekly episodes is the norm, that doesn’t mean that you have to record and release new podcast episodes weekly. Consistency is important, so do whatever works for you and your audience!
Find an Audio Recording Software
One of the first things you’ll want to do before launching your podcast is to find a recording software. You’ll need this software in order to record, edit, and upload your podcasts. There are many third-party apps that are popular among podcasters, but we recommend using either GarageBand or Audacity. Both of these tools have been around for a while and offer everything you need to run a successful podcast.
Decide on a Name for Your Podcast
The name of your podcast is the first and most important decision you’ll make. This is where you set the tone for your podcast. You want to come up with a name that makes sense to your audience and will help them easily find what they’re looking for. If you don’t know how to choose a good name, consider these tips!
A podcast typically has three main parts: the introduction, an interview, and a conclusion. You could use these factors as inspiration for naming your podcast.
Another thing to keep in mind when choosing a name is whether or not it will create confusion among potential listeners. For example, if you have two podcasts with the same title but are about different topics, potential listeners may get confused about which one they should listen to!
Also, make sure there isn’t already a podcast with the same name (or a trademarked business name!).
Create a Logo and Show artwork
The first step to getting your podcast off the ground is actually creating it. If you’re needing a logo, you can use a free resource like Canva to design one easily. Make sure that your logo is professional and eye-catching.
For podcast cover artwork, there are a number of ways that you can get artwork for your podcast, including hiring an artist or asking friends and family members for help.
Check out this amazing Podcast Marketing Canva Template Bundle – it includes cover art templates and marketing templates for sharing new podcast episodes on social media.
Where to Host Your Podcast
Finally, think about where your podcast will be hosted. You can host it on Soundcloud or Libsyn, which don’t require any previous experience or knowledge of how to use them.
I currently use Libsyn and LOVE it!
Choose an Audio Editing Software
Before you even think about organizing your podcast, you will need to choose an audio editing software. This software will allow you to process and edit your audio files so that they are ready for their release. There are many different options available, so it is important that you consider your personal preference before choosing a program.
You should also think about what type of equipment you will be using for the release of your podcast. If you are starting from scratch and have no equipment, there are many free programs available, as well as some low-cost options.
However, if you already have some basic recording equipment, like a microphone or camera microphone, then advanced audio editing software can do wonders for your work!
Podcast Launch Checklist: Final Steps to Launch Your Podcast
Launching a podcast should have a lot of planning and thought put into it, but it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. It should be a fun experience! And one that serves your audience, gets your voice out there, and grows your audience. Once you understand a bit more about how to launch a podcast, there are really only 3 easy steps in this podcast launch checklist.
1. Create a podcast title and description
Before you start blogging or recording, it’s important to come up with the best name and description for your podcast. The title of your podcast should be unique, informative, and concise so listeners will want to tune in.
When creating your description, consider what you want listeners to know about your show before they even click on the episode. This will help provide context for them right as they are listening to your first episode!
2. Identify possible episodes for your show
Once you have a clear idea of what you’re going to talk about (and how often), it’s time to brainstorm potential episodes.
Ask your audience what they want to hear about.
With enough initial research done, you will be able to prepare interesting stories for each episode of your show.
3. Submit your podcast to Apple and Spotify
The final step is to submit your podcast to Apple and Spotify! It’s not as complicated as it might sound. I would also recommend creating a launch strategy around your initial podcast release.
For the Introvertpreneur podcast launch, for example, we had a launch team who shared the podcast announcement and provided their feedback after getting early access. We also dropped 4 episodes on the initial podcast launch so people could get excited and binge-listen a bit.
Hopefully, this podcast launch checklist has helped you begin brainstorming starting a podcast of your own!
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