Podcasting is growing - hugely. Every single year. And we're still early in the journey.
There's still lots of space for new podcasts. There's space for YOU!
I'm guessing by the fact that you're reading this you've been thinking about starting one
I'm also guessing that you've had the following thoughts:
- Why should I bother?
- Isn't it too hard to start a podcast?
- Doesn't it take lots of time?
- Isn't it expensive to start a podcast?
- Would anyone listen to my podcast?
I'm here to help you answer these questions and get you started!
Why?
Podcasts can have many benefits, whether you are an individual or a business. Here's a few benefits:
- Build your network - if you have guests, you can meet new and interesting people
- Build your personal brand - establish yourself as a thought leader
- Grow your business profile - market your business through content that adds value
- Have a new way to approach your ideal clients - get them on your podcast!
- Creates content to repurpose - gives you a bank of content you can use in many ways
- Grow your communication skills - you will learn how to become an elite communicator
Difficulty
It's getting easier and easier to create and release podcasts. As technology, AI and user experience improves - so does podcast creation.
Tools like Riverside, Streamyard, Podcastle mean that you can create and edit your podcasts easily.
Distribution has been made simple by Spotify for Podcasters, Buzzsprout and other tools
Long story short - it's not hard!
Time
Podcasting can take as little or as much time as you want to. Podcasts don't have to be hours long. Some podcasts are 5 minute episodes!
Don't be put off by this. there are no real rules for podcasting. You can broadly do it how ever you like as long as you're adding value. Value can be wisdom, insight, entertainment, relaxation or something else I'm not aware of. Add value and you can do broadly what you like!
So don't get caught up in thinking you have to do super long episodes before you start.
Cost
You can probably start a podcast with what you have right now - no extra cost. When I started my podcast - I recorded my first episode with my laptop camera and microphone. As you grow, you can upgrade your equipment, but you don't need fancy equipment to start.
Listeners
This is a great question and to be honest - at the beginning - probably not. But that doesn't mean you shouldn't start. Think about how many times you stumble across a creator or podcast on social media. You love what you've found so you go back and see what else they've got.
It takes time to get discovered. Don't get discouraged. Focus on adding value. The numbers will come!