how to start a podcast

Multiple content formats – you’ve heard this bandied about as something that you need to do for all of your content. Videos, images, and the intimidating podcast are all forms people suggest. But how to start a podcast might be something you’re not sure about yet; or, how to start one that successfully ties into your content marketing. You have great text content, and you might even be well on your way to great videos, but audio? “That’s not something I think will work for me.” Let me tell you, I think a podcast is absolutely perfect for you, and I want to look at just how podcasting can go hand in hand with your content marketing strategy. How To Start A Podcast 101: Let’s Discuss The Podcast Podcasts are great content forms that give your clients the ability to consume content in an easier manner. They aren’t video or written content but purely just audio content. (Though podcasts can have a video element if necessary.) This isn’t exactly like a radio show, but there are a few similarities. Don’t worry; you don’t have to have a radio voice when you do a podcast. Recording a podcast gives you the chance to record audio content based off of your written content, and give clients something easy to access. They can subscribe to the feed and get updated each time you upload a new recording. It is easy for clients just to click and listen while on a commute or at work, giving you the opportunity to market to people who are just too busy to read content or watch videos. Can You Do a Podcast? Yes, you sure can! Even if you aren’t a radio superstar. In fact, most podcasters are just regular people who aren’t radio or video experts. The great thing with podcasts is that they can be on any topic, and they give you the chance to discuss in depth about certain areas of your industry. There are many benefits to podcasts, and I want to take a look at how one can work well with your existing content. 5 Reasons Why You Should Include a Podcast in Your Content Marketing Why should you create and share podcasts as part of your content marketing strategy? Here are some awesome reasons to consider. 1. Podcasting Helps You Stand Out and Make New Connections. Podcasts are unique to the individual hosting the podcast and the guests you invite. Because of this, a podcast can help you stand out from competitors, providing customers with excellent content. You can talk about anything you want, and can even take client suggestions for an upcoming podcast. This can help you create something that is truly one-of-a-kind. In addition, Carol Trice at ProBlogger says that podcasts can also help you make new friends and connections within your industry. You can bring on guest speakers to your podcast, which can help you network. You can even send your podcast out to others in your industry, inviting them to join in and become a guest, or promote your show. No matter what, a podcast can really help when it comes to networking. 2. Podcasts are an Easier Content Medium Than You Think. A podcast does seem a bit intimidating doesn’t it? But don’t let that scary perception keep you away. When you start to add a podcast to your content strategy, you will notice that it isn’t quite as difficult as it came across. Sure, you’ll need to do edits to help with flow, especially if you have more than one speaker, but there are many programs out there that can help. 3. You Get Audio Plus Text Content With Podcast Transcripts. Did you know that you can get more than one content form when you do a podcast? After you record the podcast, you should write up a transcript for readers. Yes, this can mean a bit more work, but in the end, you will realize it is well worth it. Writing a simple transcription means that you can give your clients simple written content, as well as getting the added SEO benefit. Brendan Cournoyer from Content Marketing Institute says that the individual questions you ask in your podcast are absolutely excellent for mini-blog posts. When you create a podcast, you create the ability to have quite a bit of excellent repurposed content. 4. The Amount of People Listening to Podcasts is Growing. Podcasts have been part of content marketing for about ten or so years now but are only recently becoming more popular. According to Edison Research, about 39 million people listened to podcasts in 2014, with 15% of Americans listened to one podcast each month. And it’s growing fast. Photo courtesy edison research They also show that the way people listened to podcasts shifted immensely. Photo courtesy edison research In 2013, 34% of listeners listened to podcasts on their smartphones or tablets with 64% listening on their computers. As of 2014, 51% listen on their smartphones or tablets with only 46% listening on the computer. This goes hand-in-hand with mobile marketing and adding a podcast to your mobile content marketing strategy can really help you drive more traffic to your site. 5. It’s a Content Medium People Can Easily Consume While Doing Various Tasks. This point is absolutely amazing and shows just how important this content medium is. When you make a podcast, you are giving clients content that is easy to consume while doing regular life tasks. These tasks can include working, mowing the lawn, doing housework, brushing our teeth, cooking dinner, and more. People can listen to podcasts when they’re driving to work, if they are traveling for family vacation, or if they are sitting on their front porches sipping lemonade. Podcasts move with the person; they are available at all times and are easy to consume. Videos and text are awesome, of course, but that chains people to their phones and desks. A podcast gives them the freedom to hit play, put their … Read more