Thinking about starting a podcast of your own?
Podcasting is for everyone: my chat with the kids at P.S. 84
Brie Mittan
Host, Astoria Podcast
Hello Neighbor and Fellow Podcast Enthusiast!
Have you been thinking of starting a podcast of your own? Recently, I had the pleasure of chatting with the kids at P.S. 84 about exactly that. I was truly impressed by their passion for storytelling and their eagerness to learn about the equipment I use for producing the Astoria Podcast. They bombarded me with questions about interviewing techniques, and one student was particularly thrilled to hear her friend Crystal, owner of Crystal’s Confections was featured in episode 103. My goal was to show them that you don’t need fancy equipment to get started and to not be afraid of making mistakes. So, let me share more of what I discussed with them.
Free Tools For Starting Your Podcast:
Starting my own podcast was a leap of faith, but one that has enriched my life beyond measure. Today, I want to inspire you to embark on your own podcasting adventure. What you may not realize is that you already own the most important tool needed for a great-sounding podcast—your ears! Take a moment to close your eyes and listen. Perhaps you hear your AC humming or the distant vacuuming noise from upstairs. The thing is, your microphone will pick up those sounds too, which brings me to the next essential tool you probably already have—a quiet space.
Finding a quiet place to record can be challenging depending on where you live but with some creativity you can create one of your own. Take a tour around your living space. Clap your hands in the kitchen or sing in the bathroom—you'll notice a difference compared to doing the same in the bedroom or living room. Soft, plush surfaces like beds, couches, and closets full of clothes absorb sound reflections, resulting in clearer audio recordings. If you don’t have a room with soft surfaces try picking a corner in whatever room you have available and line the walls with blankets and pillows. When you record, face this corner and the sound reflections will be much softer.
Now, let's talk equipment. If you own a smartphone, you already possess the basics to get started. Whether it’s an Android or iPhone, both come preinstalled with apps like Sound Recorder (Android) or Voice Memo (iPhone). These apps are straightforward to use and, in a quiet environment as described earlier, can capture decent sound recordings. When recording with a phone, place it on a stack of books about six inches from your mouth to maintain steadiness and reduce handling noise. After recording, you can email the file to a computer for editing. There are many editing options, but I recommend Audacity—it’s free to download, and there are numerous online tutorials available.
Choosing Your Podcasting Headphones:
So far, you haven’t needed to spend any money on new equipment! However, there is one piece you should consider investing in—a good pair of headphones. The best choice for any audio work is over-the-ear headphones because they help monitor the microphone-captured sounds, minimizing background noise. With good headphones, you'll notice more sounds, like the low refrigerator hum or distant outside traffic, which you can avoid by choosing quieter recording rooms.
Depending on your budget, here are three recommended options for over-the-ear headphones:
My ole trusty Sony ear muffs.
Personally, I use the Sony MDR7506 headphones for their durability, foldability, and replaceable ear cushions, which have served me well over the years. I do not recommend wireless/Bluetooth headphones which require frequent charging and can cause a delay in your recorded audio.
Upgrading Your Podcast Equipment:
While you can start recording directly into your smartphone, you might eventually consider upgrading to a higher-quality microphone or a dedicated recording device. However, before doing so, think about your show's unique needs. Will you be recording in various locations? Will your show feature multiple guests?
For the Astoria Podcast, I use lightweight and portable equipment that suits diverse recording settings, such as the H4n Zoom 4 Track Field Recorder priced at $170. This recorder includes built-in stereo microphones and two XLR connections, ideal for both myself and my guest. Another excellent option is the Tascam DR-40X, priced at $155, which operates similarly and is well-suited for field recording purposes.
Choosing Your Podcasting Microphone:
Your choice of microphone should complement your storytelling style and enhance rather than hinder it. For the Astoria Podcast, I prioritize the comfort of my guests, especially since many are new to podcasting. For someone being interviewed for the first time, a large microphone can feel intimidating. That's why I prefer using a simple wired Lavalier microphone. Typically, after the first few minutes of recording, guests start to relax, and soon we forget the microphones are even there, allowing for a natural flow of conversation.
If this option sounds right for you, here are two recommended lav microphones:
PowerDeWise Professional Grade Lav Mic (for smartphones)
Comica XLR Lav Microphones (for Zoom recorder)
Keep in mind that microphones requiring phantom power, such as the Comica XLR Lav, consume significant power when recording on the go. So before you choose your recording location, ensure you have access to a power outlet for your recording device or carry extra batteries.
If you plan to record in one location for the entire show or don’t plan on having many guests, a desktop microphone might be more suitable. USB microphones are popular choices because they plug directly into your computer, allowing you to start recording immediately. Here are four good options based on budget:
Shure MV7 USB Microphone - $249
Remember, while quality equipment helps, finding a quiet place to record is crucial. You can start with a makeshift studio in your closet or a corner lined with blankets to dampen echoes and outside noises. Finding your quiet recording space will work wonders for creating a clean, professional sound. It's about resourcefulness and passion, not the price tag of your gear.
Starting Your Podcast Journey:
If there’s one thing to take away from this post, it’s this: it’s time to get started. Your initial episodes won't be perfect—I'm currently refining season two of my show and still ironing out kinks. Remember, in any art form, quantity creates quality. Each episode is an opportunity to refine your skills, find your voice, and connect with your audience. Embrace the imperfections of your early episodes—they're milestones in your journey of growth and improvement.
When I pressed that record button for the first time, I wasn't sure if anyone would listen. But as I poured my passion into each episode, something incredible happened. People started tuning in, sharing their stories, and engaging online. What began as a personal project has grown into a real show with a growing online community.
I hope this post has inspired you to start creating. At the end of my talk at P.S. 84, a girl approached me and shared that while she hadn’t considered podcasting before, my presentation inspired her to try creating her own show. That made my entire week. Inspiring others with my journey makes this endeavor truly worthwhile. Remember, your voice matters, and there are listeners out there waiting to hear your story. Embrace the journey with all its ups and downs.
Starting a podcast can be both thrilling and daunting, especially for beginners. I hope this guide, suitable for any budget, will help you take those initial steps into podcasting. As I began my own podcasting journey, I quickly realized the importance of having reliable, easy-to-use equipment that suits your show's needs. From defining your show's style and selecting the right gear to mastering the production process, there's much to consider. However, with a well-planned podcast setup, you can confidently embark on your podcasting adventure. Through this blog, I aim to share podcasting tips to support you along your journey. Remember, podcasting is accessible to everyone, and discovering your unique podcasting style is part of the excitement. Regardless of your financial resources, you can launch the podcast of your dreams.
If you have been on the fence about starting your own podcast, consider this your sign—it’s time to give it a try.
Brie Mittan
Host, Astoria Podcast
Note: To be transparent, I use affiliate links in this article. This means if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission. Your support through these links helps sustain the production of the Astoria Podcast. Thank you for your support.