THE RISE OF PODCASTS

AMPLIFYING VOICES ONE EPISODE AT A TIME

PHOTO SOURCE: (c) shurkin_son / iStock via Getty Images Plus

In the age of digital storytelling, there’s one medium that has carved out a powerful, personal space in our lives: the podcast. Whether you’re commuting, cooking, cleaning, or simply unwinding, chances are you’ve hit play on a podcast recently. From true crime junkies to wellness warriors, business bosses to everyday storytellers, podcasts have become the modern stage for sharing knowledge, laughter, and lived experience.

But what exactly is or isn’t considered a podcast? And how can you, yes you, start one that doesn’t just launch but lasts?

What Is a Podcast Anyway?

At its core, a podcast is a series of spoken-word audio episodes, typically centered around a consistent theme or topic. It’s on-demand, meaning listeners can tune in whenever they want, often through platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. Episodes can be scripted or unscripted, solo or guest-led, casual or highly produced.

But here's where it gets tricky: not all audio is a podcast.

If you post a single voice memo or a one-time audio rant on Instagram, that’s not a podcast. A true podcast implies a series, some level of structure, and usually, distribution via an RSS feed across podcast directories. And while more creators are filming their recordings and posting them to video platforms (hello, YouTube podcasts), the essence of podcasting remains: it's storytelling through sound.

Why the Boom?

Podcasting is booming because it’s intimate, accessible, and diverse. You don’t need a massive budget or studio to get started just a microphone, a quiet room, and something real to say. In a world craving authenticity, podcasts let people connect voice-to-voice, heart-to-heart.

For underrepresented voices, especially women, BIPOC communities, and plus-size creators, podcasting has become a space to own the narrative. There’s no gatekeeper, no approval needed. You hit record, and the mic is yours.

So You Want to Start a Podcast? Here’s What to Know.

Creating a podcast is easy. Creating a great, long-lasting one? That takes strategy.

1. Define Your “Why”

Before you buy a mic, ask: Why am I doing this? Is it to inform, entertain, inspire, or all of the above? Your purpose will guide your content, tone, and style. The most successful podcasts have a strong sense of identity; you know what you’re getting and why it matters.

2. Choose a Clear Niche

“Lifestyle” is too vague. “Confidence coaching for plus-size women navigating corporate spaces”? That’s a niche. The tighter your niche, the easier it is to attract a loyal, passionate audience.

3. Plan Before You Publish

Map out your first 10 episodes before launching. Are you going solo or interviewing guests? Will it be weekly, bi-weekly, or seasonal? Consistency is key, it builds trust and keeps listeners coming back.

How to Come Up with Engaging Topics

Let’s be real: not every episode will be gold. But the secret to keeping things fresh lies in one word: curiosity.

Here are some ways to spark episode ideas:

• Answer Real Questions: What does your audience ask you most? Turn those into episodes.

• Share Personal Stories: Vulnerability builds connection. Share your journey, your lessons, your wins and fails.

• Invite Diverse Guests: Tap into voices with different perspectives. It deepens the conversation and expands your reach.

• Use Timely Hooks: Is there a trending topic in the news or on social media that relates to your niche? Speak on it.

Pro Tip: Keep a running list of episode ideas in your phone. You’ll be surprised how many topics come to mind in the shower or at 2AM.

What Makes a Podcast Last

There are millions of podcasts, but most don’t make it past 10 episodes. Why? Burnout, lack of clarity, or chasing perfection.

To create a sustainable podcast:

• Batch Record: Don’t record week to week. Plan and record multiple episodes at once to avoid last-minute stress.

• Stay Consistent, Not Perfect: You’ll grow as you go. Don’t wait for the “perfect” voice, edit, or moment.

• Build a Community: Talk with your listeners, not just at them. Ask for feedback, run polls, take suggestions.

• Monetize Smartly: You can earn through sponsorships, merch, or memberships, but only after building trust. Focus on value first, money second.

Must-Have Tools for New Podcasters

Start strong with the right equipment, software, and support tools.

You don’t need to spend thousands to sound professional. Here are the essentials:

Microphones

• Blue Yeti – A popular, beginner-friendly USB mic with multiple recording modes.

• Samson Q2U – Affordable, portable, and perfect for growing with your setup (USB + XLR support).

Recording & Editing Software

• Audacity – Free and powerful for both Mac and PC users.

• GarageBand – Built-in for Mac users, great for voice and music editing.

• Descript – Edit audio by editing text, with built-in transcription and AI features.

Podcast Hosting Platforms

• Buzzsprout – Clean, beginner-friendly interface with great analytics and support.

• Spotify for Podcasters (formerly Anchor) – Free, mobile-friendly, and integrates directly with Spotify.

Cover Art & Branding

• Canva – Design your podcast cover art with free templates and custom dimensions.

• Fiverr – Hire a designer for as little as $15 if you want something more custom.

Music & Sound Effects

• Epidemic Sound / Soundstripe – Royalty-free libraries with music that sets the mood.

• FreeSound.org – Free sound effects; check licensing requirements.

Growth & Website Tools

• Chartable – Tracks your show's ranking and listener data across platforms.

• Podpage – Instantly create a website for your podcast with no coding required.

💡 Pro Tip: Improve sound quality with your environment — a closet with clothes can be a better studio than an echo-y kitchen!