Podcast Setup 101

In the last instalment of the PodStack newsletter, I shared all my podcast branding secrets, including how to create a strategy for your show, which topics to pick, and the most common branding pitfalls. This time, we’re getting a bit more technical and diving into everything you’ll need to know (tech-wise) before you record your first episode. Let’s get into it.

Focus Your Environment

This might sound obvious, but make sure you (and your guests if you have them) are in a quiet and distraction-free environment. Nothing ruins your audio quality like nearby traffic, a loud office environment, or your dog barking at the neighbour’s cat every five minutes. Simple things like putting your phone on silent will make a big difference because any mic worth its salt will pick up on any buzzes or bings. Turning off your notifications will also help you focus on your guest and conversation.

This might be a more niche tip, but I prefer using a standing desk to record my podcast because being on my feet keeps me a little bit more engaged. If you’re not part of the always-on community, a comfy chair would probably work too. The aim is to do whatever helps you give your full attention to your topic or guests.

Another thing that helps me keep the recordings on track is keeping a big timer on my desk. You can use your phone or use a kitchen timer, as long as it doesn’t have a loud alarm or vibration that’ll disrupt your episode. This helps me know how much time I’ve got to stretch out on an interesting question or try to trim down the topic if I’m getting carried away. Having a timer isn’t about stopping the recording, but it helps you manage your time effectively and hit the episode’s key topics within your time frame. After all, rambling on for two hours is one of the best ways to switch listeners off, even if you are passionate about something.

Start Layering Your Tech Stack

When it comes to your physical tech, the two things you’ll want are a decent microphone and a good-quality camera or webcam. Especially if you’re just starting out, you won’t need to spend more than ￡300 on your setup. While built-in webcams will technically work, most of them won’t give you a good enough video and audio quality to produce high-quality content that’ll keep your audience watching and coming back for more. If you’ve got a top-of-the-line laptop, you might be okay, but we’d generally recommend boosting your tech with a couple of quality additions.

When it comes to microphones, one of the most popular options is Logitech’s Blue Yeti model. Not only does it look the part, but it’s also an affordable option that gives you great sound quality for your investment. It’s pretty versatile, and several of our clients have opted for it in the past with great success.

For cameras, I’d recommend the Logitech Brio. It’s a great starter camera, giving you crisp picture quality and an easy setup experience. Of course, if you’re recording your podcast in person, you’ll want a significantly flashier piece of tech. However, that’s not something I typically see people doing when they’re first starting out. If you do decide to go all in though, drop me a DM, and I’ll give you some personalised recommendations.

Choose Your Digital Platforms

Your tech stack doesn’t stop with your physical setup. You also need to choose which platform you’ll record and publish your podcast on.

Most virtual meeting platforms like Zoom, Teams or Google Meet will let you record your conversations on them, but they all come with certain disadvantages. The main issue with all of them is the fact that they will only record on one computer or from one user’s perspective, meaning that any lag, overlaps, etc., will be permanently built into your recordings. If you want to avoid that problem, using a podcast-specific platform like Riverside is your best bet.

We use Riverside for our podcast and recommend it to all our clients. It has features that allow you to natively record separate video and audio files for you and your guests, allowing you to edit out any small errors from your show.

Once you’ve recorded your podcast, you’ll need to edit it (unless you’re outsourcing it to a podcast agency like us, of course). Some free software options like Audacity will allow you to edit audio-only files, or you can use DaVinci Resolve, iMovie or Movie Maker for video files. DaVinci has the most complex controls, making it the hardest for amateurs to master, but it will give you the best results when used properly. If you’re comfortable with more technical, professional-quality editing software, the Adobe suite includes plenty of options for whichever format you use for your show.

When it comes to publishing your podcast, there are a number of places you’ll need to put your show. Firstly, a streaming service (or several) is going to be the best place for most listeners to find you. Getting your podcast on platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube should be a top priority.

Secondly, a promotion strategy should include a secondary platform like LinkedIn, YouTube Shorts, or TikTok to push shorter clips to a wider audience. This is a great way to engage relevant listeners and draw them into the longer podcast. LinkedIn is a particularly important platform for recruiters (and anyone else in the B2B podcasting game) because you can tag your guest speakers and tap into their audience. It’s also a great way to show some appreciation for the people who have given up their time to create content with you.

Last But Definitely Not Least

When it comes to recording your podcast, the most important thing to remember is to have a good time. If you’re interested in what your guests have to say, that’ll create a better listening experience for your audience and make your guests far more likely to recommend you to their connections. Listening to a dried-up Q&A is about as exciting as watching your dad have his Sunday afternoon nap. Don’t take yourself too seriously, and focus on having a great conversation.

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