5 Tips for Starting & Launching a Podcast

There are currently over 3M active podcasts, and in the U.S. alone, there are almost 130M podcast listeners. 

So, is it still worth it to start a podcast in 2024? Absolutely. 

But it takes the right strategy, planning, and tools to stand out in an ever-growing space.

How to Start a Podcast in 2024

Tip 1: Identify Your Why 

We know, the idea of launching a podcast is exciting. But many often miss a critical first step: identifying your why.

Before you jump into topic ideas, names, or future guests, it’s important to nail down:

• Why are you launching a podcast? What are you trying to achieve? 

• Who is your target audience? Be specific. 

• What will be your episode cadence? Will you publish weekly, monthly?

• Will it be scripted and outlined, or a casual conversation? 

• Will it be purely audio, or will there be a video component too (e.g. uploading to YouTube)? 

• How will you measure (and track) success? 

Don’t rush this step! Whether you’re a brand or creator launching your own podcast, a strong foundation is key.

Tip 2: Define the Podcast Topic

To paraphrase a common phrase, “Good ideas are a dime a dozen.” 

So, while your initial topic may be interesting, it’s important to do your research too: What’s already in the market? 

Take the time to audit podcasts within (or similar to) your topic’s niche. 

Then, consider:

• Are there current gaps? 

• How can you join the conversation differently?

• Do you have a new angle?

• Can you tap into interesting guests? 

When brainstorming Beyond Influence, we knew that there are many influencer marketing podcasts and influencers withpodcasts.

But we saw an opportunity to close the knowledge gap: Instead of speaking to either creators or marketers, we're inviting both to the conversation. 

Tip 3: Choose a Compelling Podcast Name

“What’s in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet.” — Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet.  

Your podcast name is important as it’s often the first touchpoint for potential listeners.

It gives them a hint as to what  content to expect, along with the podcast’s overall tone.

For example, Smartless with Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett embodies this well. 

The name is humorous and listeners can infer the hosts are poking fun at their intelligence. Anyone who listens knows both to be true.   

We named our podcast Beyond Influence because it delves into the influencer, creator, brand, and consumer experience with influencer marketing. The name is crisp and clear.

Tip 4: Select the Right Technology For Your Podcast

There are a number of platforms that offer recording and editing tools for anyone looking to start a podcast. 

And luckily, with the introduction of AI capabilities, you don't need to be an expert!

Episode Recording 

We use Riverside to record and then pass the files to Later’s video editor to refine and edit. 

If you’re launching the podcast solo (or don’t have an internal team), Riverside also offers editing and publishing features. 

Episode Distribution

Once your episode is ready, export the audio and video to Buzzsprout — a podcast hosting platform that then distributes your content to listening and viewing platforms.

Beyond Influence is published on Amazon Music, Apple Podcasts, PlayerFM, Spotify and YouTube.

Podcast Equipment 

Many new podcasters use their phone or computer, and it’s a good place to start if resources are limited. 

However, for optimal sound, it’s a good idea to invest in a microphone. 

For Beyond Influence, we use microphones from Shure: the Shure Mv7 and Shure SM7B. 

Podcast Studio 

Another consideration is whether to record video and audio, or audio only. We opted for both but it is a time commitment to edit both audio and video. 

You also don’t need a fancy sound-proof studio. Just find a comfortable quiet space in your house (or office) for a good audio experience. 

Tip 5: Market Your Podcast

“Build it and they will come,” does not apply to podcasts. 

Beyond Influence’s launch was benefited by the backing of Later's marketing team.

Source: later.com