Tip 1 - Bulletproof Your Format

You want to have a recognizable format for a few reasons. The format can change or evolve over the lifetime of your show. But, you do not want to get 5-10 episodes in and realize that you hate the way your show is designed.

Figure out a format that works for your content. Map out a few episodes into that format. And then try to poke holes. Is this the best way to present this information? Is there a better way to present this idea? Is it a clear delivery system of these thoughts for the audience? Can I streamline the production of these elements by doing it a different way?

Tip 2 - Don’t Cheap Out

The gear matters. It doesn’t have to be the most high-end on the market. But it does need to suit all of your needs. Don’t buy something based on the lowest price point at the expense of quality because you will end up paying for it one way or another.

Whenever possible, consider renting or borrowing a piece of gear to test it our before committing to it sight-unseen. Quality, comfort, ease of use and durability should all be considered.

Tip 3 - Throw It Away

Before you launch your first episode, record it twice. And then be ready to toss them both away.

Don’t expect to knock it out of the park on your first swing. Take the time to figure out how to make your episodes work before you put any out into the world. There is a steep learning curve when you get into podcasting. You learn something each time that you record on early episodes. Record that first episode. Then do it again. Move on to your second episode and then your third. By the time you have recorded a few episodes you should have a better sense of what you like and what works for you. At this point, that first episode will have to be redone once again, but you will have something that you are proud to put out into the world.