How to become A Podcaster

Podcasting is a powerful medium that allows individuals otherwise ignored by mainstream media to share their stories, build a community, and have a remarkable positive impact on the world. No wonder, then, that there are over two million podcasts and more than forty-eight million podcast episodes available worldwide and counting.

• Podcast Host
• Podcast Producer

What do Podcasters do?

A Podcaster would typically need to:

• Record, edit, and save video and digital audio content and distribute it as files to the devices of subscribed users via an RSS feed
• Outline the type of content to be produced, keeping in view the topics, guests, and other elements likely to be included in the show
• Design and develop show formats that will appeal to listeners and keep them engaged through multiple episodes
• Choose a name, logo, and website for the show that is an authentic reflection o the tone and content of the podcast
• Invest in a camera, microphone, audio interface, and other accessories to enhance the audio and video experience 
• Prepare for each episode by researching topics and stories of potential interest to the listeners
• Locate and send requests for interviews to individuals with expertise in a specific field that may capture the attention of the target audience
• Coordinate with producers to schedule interviews with guest speakers for upcoming episodes
• Do due diligence and prepare background material and questions for the interview; run them by the producer and the guest for approval
• Lead an enthusiastic discussion of the topics at hand while adhering to relevant legislation and prescribed code of neutrality and decorum 
• Collaborate with the design, creative, production, video editing, and marketing teams to ensure the podcast is successful
• Edit recorded video and audio files to remove any errors in speech or audio/video quality that would potentially distract listeners
• Polish the final version of each episode, adding transitions and music, as needed to elicit positive feedback from listeners once it is published
• Publish and promote the podcast; upload the episode to a podcast hosting platform
• Use social media and other marketing strategies to get more subscribers and validate their sponsors’ faith in their ability to draw and engage listeners
• Solicit and review listener feedback; respond promptly and aptly to questions or concerns from listeners about earlier episodes
• Monitor the analytics and adjust the marketing strategy, if necessary; track metrics such as downloads, listens, and reviews to gauge the show’s success
• Build and maintain mutually beneficial relationships with sponsors; ensure they are satisfied with the exposure they are getting in return for their funding
• Source and liaise with collaborating organisations in a timely and efficient manner
• Act as a model and advocate of professed principles and provide appropriate advice and information to listeners
• Maintain an exemplary degree of professionalism, privacy and confidentiality in all professional dealings

Podcasters typically work from the comfort of their home office or studio, although some may travel to different locations to record their shows. It is possible to do the work all on one’s own or work with a team of people to ensure the timely airing of a show.

Podcasters employed by a media company may have a 9 to 5 gig; freelancers also tend to work regular hours, although they may need to work evenings and weekends to meet deadlines and accommodate the schedules of their guests. All Podcasters may put in extra hours to prepare for upcoming episodes, edit and produce recorded episodes, and promote their work.

Research suggests that flexible hours and generous telework policies appeal more than salary to the younger generation. There has been an incremental increase in employers willing to give promising employees a chance to adjust their schedules per the job demands.

Finding a new job may be challenging. Podcasters can boost their job search by asking their network for referrals, contacting companies directly, using job search platforms, going to job fairs, leveraging social media, and inquiring at staffing agencies. Freelancing is a popular option.

Podcasters are generally employed by:

• Public & Private Radio Stations
• Broadcasting Networks
• Podcast Production Comapnies
• Podcast Networks
• Educational Institutions
• Corporate Organisations

Professional associations and organisations, such as The Podcast Professional Association (PPA), are crucial for Podcasters interested in pursuing professional development or connecting with like-minded professionals in their industry or occupation. 

Professional associations provide members with continuing education, networking opportunities, and mentorship services. Membership in one or more adds value to your resume while bolstering your credentials and qualifications.

• Zeroing in on a niche that one is passionate about and has a high likelihood of attracting a large audience
• Creating consistently engaging and informative content that keeps the audience coming back for more; a clear structure to keep the content on track
• Technical issues such as equipment failure or poor sound quality that may detract from the anticipated impact of a specific episode
• Promoting one’s podcast, engaging with listeners, and growing an audience, especially in a crowded market
• Failure to produce new episodes and keep the audience engaged due to lack of a properly planned and implemented schedule
• Lack of viable monetising strategies such as sponsorships, advertising, merchandise sales, live events, and crowdfunding platforms such as Patreon

While formal degrees and accredited certifications can provide valuable knowledge and skills, practical experience and a strong portfolio are just as essential in the podcasting industry.

Many Podcasters have prior experience hosting shows, interviewing guests, and editing audio and video on radio or television. Some public speakers and writers seeking to expand their horizons enter the podcast universe.

Those who dare to start their own podcast from scratch after gaining enough knowledge about navigating the ins and outs of podcast development and production may be unable to pull off their first or even fifteenth podcast. However, all that practice will go a long way in setting you up for success when you finally nail down a topic and format that engages your audience.

Summer internship, part-time work at an entry-level position or short-term paid/voluntary work at media and production companies specialising in podcasts offer a taste of the career, help build valuable contacts, and improve one’s prospects of getting a permanent job.

Prospective Podcasters will benefit from tasks outside the classroom that align perfectly with lessons inside it. One may hear countless stories from more experienced professionals and obtain valuable hands-on experience when they turn seemingly routine incidents into unique learning moments.

Tasks like podcast transcribing, interviewing, editing, and recording will allow you to improve your language proficiency, grammar, vocabulary, and storytelling aptitude. You can gain a deeper insight into media production, sound design, audio editing techniques, and scriptwriting.

Observing the masters at work while recording episodes, conducting interviews, or speaking in front of an audience will enhance your creativity and ability to engage and entertain listeners when you have a podcast.

Any undertaking that involves gaining familiarity with audio recording, editing software, website development, and online distribution platforms will work in tandem with your goals.

Take stock of clear-cut strategies to build one’s audience and brand. Make a note of tried-n-tested social media promotion and monetisation techniques. Begin putting together a portfolio that highlights your talents and helps you establish a dynamic presence in the podcasting industry.

Even while in high school, you can check with a teacher or counsellor about relevant work-based learning opportunities available in your school or community that can help you connect your school experiences with real-life work. 

Join the public speaking and debating societies to enrich your content, enable you to approach topics from different perspectives, and help you connect with diverse audiences. Become a member of the school/community theatre or drama society member to improve your confidence, articulation, and performance skills. The computer club can help you gain recording, editing, and post-production skills.

Research different podcasting genres and interview or job shadow experienced Podcasters to help you decide which field best suits your interests and capabilities. Undertake an in-depth analysis of the specific area of podcasting to familiarise yourself with prevailing hosts and popular shows; figure out what works and what does not in the current scenario.

Planning, preparation, consistency, and dedication are essential to become a successful Podcaster. It is never too early to start planning and preparing for the best possible route to realising this dream.

Most aspiring Podcasters complete at least a bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, broadcasting and media, English, or liberal arts, especially when they intend to work in the more conventional podcast setting of working for a production company. A formal degree will set you apart from your peers and open the door to valuable internships, mentorships, and apprenticeship opportunities. 

Aspirants who wish to make it as freelancers may enrol in recognised online certificate courses specifically designed to teach the fundamentals of podcasting, including content creation, audio recording and editing, storytelling, interview techniques, monetisation strategies, and marketing.

Gain expertise in audio production and a specific area, such as business, education, technology, crime, and comedy, through courses of shorter duration to create engaging and informative podcasts that captivate your target audience. 

Recommended high school courses include English/literature, media studies/journalism, drama, theatre, visual arts, sociology, psychology, anthropology, history, technology/computer science, and marketing/advertising.

Remember that completing a particular academic course does not guarantee entry into the profession. Be that as it may, professional qualifications and transferable skills may open up more than one door.

Do your homework and look into all available options for education and employment before enrolling in a specific programme. Reliable sources that help you make an educated decision include associations and employers in your field. 

Although not mandatory, certification demonstrates a Podcaster’s competence in a skill set, typically through work experience, training, and passing an examination. Successful certification programs protect public welfare by incorporating a Code of Ethics.

Journalism or media certifications focusing on reporting, storytelling, interviewing techniques, and media ethics can enhance credibility. Certifications in communication and public speaking can improve public speaking and presentation skills, worth their weight in gold to Podcasters.

Podcasters may also need to undergo an employment background check, including but not limited to a person’s work history, education, credit history, motor vehicle reports (MVRs), criminal record, medical history, use of social media, and drug screening.

Podcasters employed by media companies and podcast networks may take on additional responsibilities as producers and editors to augment their income.

As the show grows in popularity, freelancing Podcasters can monetise it through sponsorships, ads, or donations. With experience and successful performance to back you up, you can also use your platform to launch products or services that will generate income and expand your area of influence. You can team up with businesses that will benefit from your impactful personal branding in building their brand and reputation.

The desire to accelerate career growth and personal development has an increasing number of millennials choosing to job hop and build a scattershot resume that showcases ambition, motivation, and the desire to learn a broad range of skills.

Studies prove that job hopping, earlier dismissed as “flaky” behaviour, can lead to greater job fulfilment. Employees searching for a positive culture and exciting work are willing to try out various roles and workplaces and learn valuable, transferable skills along the way.

Grounded Podcasters who can wear many hats and think quickly on their feet, generate gripping concepts and conversations, manage time effectively, and easily handle the audio and visual aspects of the show will be able to create an entertaining and informative podcast.

Launching a podcast is easy; turning it into a self-sustaining and profitable enterprise will require pragmatism, determination, dedication, and resilience. Employers typically offer on-the-job training on the specific style and format of the podcast, use of requisite software, interactions with guests, and handling of unique situations. 

Continuing professional development (CPD) will help an active Podcaster build personal skills and proficiency through work-based learning, a professional activity, 

formal education, or self-directed learning. 

In addition to offering the opportunity to continually upskill, regardless of one’s age, job, or level of knowledge, CPD also enables the periodic renewal of desirable certifications, which increase your chances of advancement.

Additional certifications in marketing or advertising can help you promote and grow the podcast with expert advice on audience targeting, branding, and monetisation techniques.

Apply what you have learned proactively, create and refine your content constantly, and do not let go of any opportunity to showcase your skills through your own podcast or guest appearances on other shows. 

Connect with like-minded creatives and swap tips, techniques, and project opportunities. You must balance adept self-marketing and pompous self-aggrandisement to enhance your reputation and increase your base of listeners. Your expertise in a particular field can be your branding which can be expertly marketed through social media channels, blog posts, and interviews with other professionals. 

Attend and contribute purposefully to meetings. Build a respectful collaboration with team members, taking on board noteworthy suggestions and recommendations so there is a healthy diversity of perspectives on the show. Take advantage of any training that may enhance your skills as an enthralling Podcaster.

Add to your repertoire of video production and design, editing audio clips, and adding music and sound effects to create visually appealing shows that will continue to engage subscribers and attract new subscriptions.

Footnotes

The term “podcast”, coined in 2004, is a combination of “iPod” and “broadcast.” Listeners can download or stream episodes on their preferred devices and listen to them at their convenience while commuting, exercising, or relaxing at home.

Podcasts have a global reach, with listeners from all around the world. Podcast listenership is highest in the US, the UK, Canada, Australia, and Germany. Genres range from true crime and comedy to business, education, technology, and storytelling.

Podcasts in different languages allow vibrant communities of passionate creators and enthusiastic listeners to connect and share their perspectives and stories across borders. Fan bases engage through social media, live events, and online forums.

Podcasting networks offer hosting services, advertising support, and cross-promotion between shows. The Webby Awards, the iHeartRadio Podcast Awards, and the British Podcast Awards figure among the more prestigious accolades conferred on the best podcasts in the industry. 

Current Scenario

The employment outlook of a particular profession may be impacted by diverse factors, such as the time of year, location, employment turnover, occupational growth, size of the occupation, and industry-specific trends and events that affect overall employment.

Improved technology, ease of access to podcasts on mobile devices, and a wide range of content available in diverse genres and formats have fueled the steady growth of podcasts. 

In addition, the emergence of various platforms and distribution channels, including exclusive podcast platforms and social media platforms expanding into podcasting, provides Podcasters with more opportunities to reach, engage with, and grow their audience.

However, evolving listener preferences, market saturation, technological advancements, and shifts in advertising trends can impact the future of podcasting. Adaptable Podcasters who can produce high-quality content and stay attuned to audience needs and industry trends will continue to flourish.

Potential Pros & Cons of Freelancing vs Full-Time Employment

Investing in quality software and equipment requires more funds, but freelancing podcasting is easier to break into. Freelancers have flexible work schedules and locations. They own the business and select projects. However, they experience inconsistent work and cash flow, meaning more responsibility, effort, and risk.

On the other hand, full-time Podcasters have company-sponsored health benefits, insurance, and retirement plans. They have job security with a fixed, reliable source of income and guidance from their bosses. Yet, they may experience boredom due to a lack of flexibility, ownership, and variety.

When deciding between freelancing or being a full-time employee, consider the pros and cons to see what works best for you.

Podcasts reach an equal number of men as women and are most popular with the 18-54 age group. Research shows that 63% bought things promoted by a host on their show, and 71% visited a sponsor’s website.

Podcasters, whose shows have gained mainstream acceptance and become a popular form of entertainment, information, and storytelling, offer their listeners myriad opportunities to explore niche interests and access diverse perspectives at a time and place of their choosing.

“Interview as much as possible. Interview your friends and family, then listen back to it and improve on the areas that need to be stronger.”

Robert Gerrish, Flying Solo Podcast