Micro, Software, Action – From idea to publication: Your guide to a successful podcast launch

Why do I want to start a podcast?

Podcasts are popular because they are flexible and personal. Listeners can enjoy content when and how it suits them, which makes them particularly engaging. They also enable a deep connection between listeners and creators, as they offer an intimate and real listening experience that is often missing in other media.

My podcast “Zoff'n Zucker” started in December 2013. I asked myself: Why? The answer influences content, technology and performance, which in turn means costs and effort.

Possible reasons for a podcast could be:

• because everyone does it,
• because no one else is listening,
• because I want to spread a message,
• because it gives me joy,
• because I want to promote my business.

Depending on the reason, the challenges and effort involved in terms of technology, content, inviting guests, post-production and publication vary. The relatively easy production has made competition fierce. A gripping title and an eye-catching image help you stand out.

What technology do I need?

You need a microphone, a USB audio interface to transfer your voice to the computer, and free recording software – and you're ready to go. Cheap sets are available starting at 150 euros.

My tip: Start with inexpensive basic equipment and do test recordings to get feedback from friends and family. This will test your talent and the response. The quality of your production reflects how professional you want to appear. It shows how you work and how important “customer satisfaction” is to you. Later on, finer details such as different microphone types, sound-absorbing foam reflector, filters, loudness normalization and post-production come into play – all very time-consuming. You can also record more cheaply using video conferencing tools, which is useful if you and your guests are in different locations.

How do I build a podcast?

Choose a topic that you know well or that is close to your heart – professionally or as a hobby. It doesn't matter whether it's about specific topics like tuning e-bikes for seniors or South Tyrolean folk songs translated into Klingon. What's important is that there are listeners who are interested in it.

Personally, I avoid long introductions and get straight to the point, which arouses curiosity. The structure of your podcast – from scheduling to recurring segments – should be based on your goal. A casual talk can be spontaneous, while a marketing podcast requires thorough preparation.

How do I publish a podcast?

Choose a hosting platform to upload your files. Once uploaded, you will receive an RSS feed that you should submit to services like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and Google Podcasts to increase your reach.

Make sure you include all the necessary information, such as a title, description and an attractive cover. Once approved, your podcast can be subscribed to worldwide. There are services that will take care of post-production and publication for a fee of around 300 euros per year.

How do I promote my podcast?

Start with a strong online presence and use social media to reach your target audience. Search engine optimization (SEO) can help make your podcast easier to find. An email list allows you to reach your listeners directly. Collaborate with other podcasters or influencers and ask your listeners for reviews and feedback. Guests with their own reach can increase your visibility.

Success in podcasting requires perseverance, discipline and hard work. The first episodes are often a learning curve. They offer the chance to see what needs to be improved in order to increase reach. As the old saying goes: practice makes perfect!