You’ve got something to say (and probably a hot take or two), and now you’re thinking… maybe it’s time to start a podcast.

First of all: YES. I love this journey for you.
Second: Let’s talk logistics—because podcasting can be a dream or a total time-suck depending on how you approach it.

I’ve hosted podcasts, edited podcasts, and helped others launch theirs. Here’s what I wish more people knew before jumping in:

1. Start With a Realistic Podcast Schedule

I know, I know—creatives love a shiny new thing. You get an amazing interview and your first thought is, “I need to release this immediately!”

But here’s the deal: podcasting is a long game, and consistency builds trust. Pick a schedule you can stick to. My rec? Start with every other week. That way, you can stay ahead without burning out in month one.

2. Plan Ahead… But Expect Chaos

Guests will cancel. Technology will glitch. It’s fine, we’re all fine.

Pro tip: Record one solo episode and one interview each month. And before you launch, have 2–3 episodes already edited and ready to go.

That buffer = your safety net.

3. Choose a Podcast Name You Can Grow With

Before you fall in love with a name, do your homework. Search Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google—and make sure it’s not taken. Bonus points if the domain is available.

Even if you don’t have a website yet, snag the domain so you can build it out later (or just redirect it to your main site in the meantime).

4. Use Royalty-Free Music

Nobody wants to get a copyright notice, friend. You’ll need royalty-free music for your intro/outro. Try Motion Array — you can do a $40 one-month subscription and snag what you need. If you’re using Riverside, they have a built-in library of music you can check out too!

5. The Best Podcasting Gear + Tools for Beginners

Let’s keep it simple:

• Mic: Blue Yeti – high quality, budget-friendly (that means under $100), easy to use
• Recording & Editing: Riverside.fm – great for audio and video, plus clips + light editing
• Graphics: Canva – perfect for thumbnails and episode promo
• Show Notes + Titles: Use a custom ChatGPT trained in your voice to generate show notes, pull quotes, and brainstorm titles from your transcript (hello, time-saver). Not sure how to do this? I’m releasing a mini course super soon on how to do this (sign up HERE to be the first to know!)

6.  Always Record Video, Even If You Don’t Think You’ll Use It

Even if your podcast is audio-only, record your interviews on video.

You’ll want it later for:

• YouTube uploads
• Instagram Reels/TikToks
• Quote graphics and audiograms

Just do it. You’ll never regret having more content to work with.

7. Episode Length + Editing Time

Wondering how long your podcast should be? Here’s a good rule of thumb:

Solo episodes: 15–30 minutes

Interviews: 30–60 minutes

Approx. Editing time = 1.5x the episode length. So if your episode is 60 minutes, expect to spend about 90 minutes editing—especially if you’re listening through to clean up awkward pauses, tech issues, or “ums.”

8. Use Spotify for Creators as Your Host

Looking for a free and easy podcast hosting platform? Use Spotify for Creators (formerly Anchor). It helps you:

• Host your podcast for free
• Distribute to all major platforms (you’ll have to set up with Apple but it’s VERY easy)
• Monetize later down the line

Simple, straightforward, and built for beginners.

9. Podcasting Is a Time Investment (But Worth It)

You’re not going to get rich overnight, and that’s okay.

Podcasting costs time or money (or both) in the beginning. Do it because you love it—not because you’re trying to be the next big name in podcasting.

10. Your Podcast = A Powerful Marketing Tool

Even if you only have 100 listeners, your podcast can help you:

• Build authority in your niche
• Strengthen your brand voice
• Connect with your dream clients

It’s not just a podcast—it’s content gold.

TLDR;

• Start slow
• Stay consistent
• Keep it fun

And if you need help naming it, branding it, or just figuring out what the heck to say in your trailer—I’m here for that too. P.S. – We do smaller podcast only packages, starting at $425/month. Click HERE to contact us!