By Josh Matthews
So you want to start a podcast? Does your idea for a show really live up to the expectations you have set for it? Is it worthy of entering the multibillion-dollar podcast industry? Probably not. However, with global podcast listenership expected to surpass 500 million users by the year 2025, your podcast idea may stand a chance to gain some listenership.
Here are some ideas to get you started in your journey towards establishing a successful podcast:
Invest in A-Grade equipment
Invest in quality hardware. It’s not necessary to buy incredibly expensive equipment, especially as a student. Most podcast channels often use basic set – ups.
Podcasts usually require the host to have the following: a laptop or computer, microphones, pop filters, headphones, and an audio interface for starters. IT retailer, Incredible Connection, provides students with effective equipment, at an affordable price.
The consumer electronics retailer stocks microphones branded by “Trust”, at a price of R649,00. The GXT 212 MICO model makes recording easy through its USB connectivity feature, whilst reducing noise and being compatible with Windows, Chrome OS and MacOS software platforms. The retailer also stocks headsets manufactured by Logitech. The H540 model boasts noise cancellation features, on ear controls and HD sound quality, for only R799,00. Choosing the right equipment may aid you, the podcast host, in ensuring the most professional sound.
Write a compelling script
According to research conducted by The Reuters Institute of Journalism at the University of Oxford:
- 46% of podcast listenership give ear to topics that interest them.
- 39% tune in to learn something new.
- 25% listen as a pastime for empty time, and the remaining.
- 22% use podcasts to divert from the pace of music.
Creating a script for your podcast is heavily based on your selected niche. Be mindful of the fact that podcasts are an emotionally charged media channel. So, ask yourself, “Why should my audience even care about this episode?”
When writing the script for your episodes, seek out connection, inspiration, or quench the thirst for deep seeded inquisitiveness.
A helpful tip is to keep the idea of the script to the point. Radio veteran and Algoa FM breakfast show host, Charlton Tobias said that hosting a podcast or radio channel comes with the responsibility of preparing the script and that nothing is ever spoon fed to you.
Decide on suitable theme music
Authenticity plays a vital role in the overall experience of a podcast. Theme music adds to the authenticity of podcasts, creating a memorable and recognisable experience for your listenership. Theme music may be obtained in several ways.
The options of royalty free music or buying stock music online are often used by podcasters, YouTubers, and content creators. Otherwise, you could invest in a musician to compose a piece that suits the mood and need of your podcast. Port Elizabeth rap duo, Jaden, and Coby Oliphant, who go by stage names OKJay and CJColey had the following to say about composing your own music for a podcast:
“Producing your own music as a podcast host is not necessary, you shouldn’t go to extra lengths in another field when you belong to one already. Purchasing stock music is a much easier option,” says rappers, Jaden, and Coby Oliphant
Find consistency and authenticity
A huge part in attracting and keeping the audience you may have gained as a podcaster, is the ability to be consistent and authentic. Consistency may be achieved through sticking to a set frequency of publishing your episodes or setting up a set format and length to your podcast. Additionally, authenticity is key.
AlgoaFM’s Tobias advises future podcasters that credible sources for informative and entertainment information should always be dependable and authentic. He goes on to say that this way, the relationship with the audience is thus made trustworthy.
The radio host also says that engaging with your audience through giveaways and games during episodes, for example, leads to the listener being able to enjoy more than just listening, but receiving a token from their favorite stations.
Invest in your show
In the end, your podcast will never withstand the ever-changing market, and the threat of new entrants to the industry. The right investments in your podcast, be it in equipment or professional editors may help your podcast to continue to stand out. When you have the idea, stick, and commit to it!
You can start your podcast on free hosting platforms like Spotify’s Anchor, SoundCloud, Twitter Spaces (via your Android Phone or iPhone only) or SA’s own iono.fm.
This is an amazing article Josh. Well done!!!!