You don’t need a fancy studio, a wardrobe full of branded hoodies, or the world’s shiniest mic to make a podcast people love (but I know why you might want to). Sure, good audio helps - but a great podcast starts way before you hit record.
Because here’s the truth: the best podcasts aren’t just heard - they’re felt. They connect. They spark ideas. They keep people coming back because they’ve got something worth saying, and they say it in a way that feels real.
So if you’re dreaming of starting your own, don’t get lost comparing microphone specs just yet. Here’s where to put your energy instead:
1. Nail the concept (seriously, do this first)
Before you record anything, get crystal clear on what your podcast is actually about. Who’s it for? Why will they care? (Why would you listen to it)
Is it a deep dive for niche superfans? A breezy listen for the daily commute? Know your audience and your big idea — it’ll guide every choice from tone and guests to episode length.
2. Prep your guests, but don’t script a TED Talk
The best podcasts feel like you’re eavesdropping on a conversation, not listening to someone read their notes.
So prep your guests well: send them a short brief, share key topics or questions, and set the vibe. But don’t over-script it. Nobody wants to sound like they’re giving a monologue on Zoom.
3. Give it a loose structure
Think of each episode like a mini story. Hook people in fast - what’s this one about? What questions will you explore? Where are you going with it?
You don’t need a rigid script, but a roadmap helps keep the chat flowing and stops you wandering into a 20-minute tangent about your guest’s dog (unless the dog’s really interesting).
4. Ask better questions
Good questions = good stories. Skip the obvious stuff like “Tell me what you do.” Instead, try “What’s something people always get wrong about your job?” or “What’s the weirdest day you’ve ever had at work?”
And when an unexpected answer pops up - follow it. Some of the best moments come when you ditch your plan and chase the good stuff.
5. Be a human, not a robot
A podcast isn’t a press release. It’s a chat. So laugh ( Be you). Be curious. Interrupt (politely). Disagree (respectfully). The mic should pick up your personality, not just your voice.
People tune in for information, sure - but they stay for connection. Give them a reason to feel like they know you.
The takeaway?
Good tech makes you sound nice. Good content makes people care. So if you’re thinking about starting a podcast - start here. Figure out what you want to say, how to say it well, and how to make people feel like they’re in the room with you.
The fancy mic can come later.