Have you been waiting years to start your podcast? Waiting for years before starting the podcast is more common than not. I am one of those people. It was 2019 when I first had the urge to start a podcast. But I pushed it aside because I was finishing my master’s degree and trying to get into law school simultaneously, which is crazy, I know. Then, in 2020, with the pandemic, I was dealing with mental health issues. So, then came 2021 – I still had the urge to start a podcast, but we had just finished buying our new house, and then I got pregnant.
Finally, in 2022 – at the beginning of the year, during my maternity leave, I thought, “Well, I have some time on my hands; I still want to launch a podcast; let me finally do this.” I started to research ‘how to start a podcast’ and realized that I needed two things:
1. a hosting provider
2. a device to record
At the time, Anchor was the name of Spotify’s hosting provider; it was free, and since I was doing an interview-based show, Anchor could record it within their app. All I needed to do was send a link to my guests at the time of the recording so they could join. It truly felt like I was doing a phone call with the guest because I wasn’t recording videos yet; it was audio-only. And it sounded like a phone call, too. The audio is horrible! But I was just focused on getting started.
So, I am here today to give you the push you need to start your podcast, especially if you’ve been holding off for years. You can start the podcast with what you have. If you have a phone or a computer, you’re halfway there. You can invest in fancy equipment later down the road. Your focus right now should be starting.
Sign Up For Spotify for Creators
Since I started my podcast, Spotify has changed its hosting name to Spotify for creators. It is still free, and you can upload videos.
When I first started, their editing options were minimal, but now it is linked to Riverside, and you can edit your show there. If you’d like to do video podcasting, you can record on Riverside, edit it, and then upload it to Spotify.
Some podcasters dislike using Spotify as a podcast host because it’s free, but you can always change your hosting services later when you’re ready to invest. Do what works best for you.
Use What You Have to Record
Again, you don’t need a professional recording studio to start a podcast. Your phone, iPad, or MacBook can serve as your recording device. Here’s how:
- Smartphone: Use your phone’s built-in voice memo app or download a free recording app like Voice Recorder. Place your phone on a stable surface to minimize background noise.
- iPad or MacBook: These devices often have built-in microphones that are perfect for beginners. Apple users can use apps like GarageBand to record and edit their episodes.
As I mentioned before, I started recording directly on the Anchor app. Sometimes, I used my phone; other times, I used my iPad or my MacBook, and it got the job done. Today, since I included a video on my show, I recorded it on my MacBook. I just had to invest in Zoom, the most commonly known video conference platform.
Do record in a quiet room with minimal echo. Soft furnishings like curtains and cushions can help improve sound quality. People have said that they like to record in their closets since it reduces echo.
Edit on GarageBand or Riverside
GarageBand comes included with your Apple products, whether your iPhone, iPad, or MacBook. You can also use Riverside to edit, which you can access through Spotify. These are two ways you can edit for free to start. And if you get stuck, there are plenty of tutorials online that can help.
If you want to edit a video podcast, Riverside also helps with this, or you can download CapCut. My favorite thing about CapCut is how user-friendly it is.
Once you’re done editing on whichever software you choose, run your audio through Auphonic. They provide two free hours per month of AI audio polishing. It helps level out the volumes, remove background noises, and remove echo.
Embrace Progress Over Perfection
The point is to start! It doesn’t have to be perfect; you don’t need a podcast studio, and you don’t need fancy equipment. You only need your phone or computer, the hosting service, and your voice. Worry about all the other stuff later.
The beauty of podcasting is its authenticity. Listeners appreciate genuine voices and relatable stories more than perfection. Don’t let fear of not sounding professional hold you back. Your unique perspective and passion will resonate with your audience.
Done is better than not.
It’s Time to Start The Podcast
Starting a podcast is easier than ever, and the tools you already have are enough to begin sharing your voice. Don’t wait for the perfect moment or invest in expensive gear upfront. Instead, focus on creating meaningful content that speaks to your audience.
So, what are you waiting for? Sign up for Spotify for Creators, grab your phone, and hit record. The world is ready to hear what you have to say—and your podcasting journey starts now!
If you do need some help getting started, I have plenty of resources in my Stan Store, there are plenty of articles here to help you get started, and I also have a podcast course that walks you through the step-by-step process of starting your podcast.
Also, if you have any questions, please email me at heidy@heidydelacruz.com or contact me for a consultation. As always, I’m here to help.
With Love, Heidy
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