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I recently read a "how to make a podcast" article, which was absolutely terrible (and not to mention completely outdated... one of the link they suggested had stopped podcasting over two years ago!).
I've been doing this for a while, so I'm going to write a simple four-step guide, based on my own experiences. I use a Windows-based machine, so all the software that I reference are on a PC. Please send me your thoughts on Mac software alternatives.
Also, please note that this is all free, so paid services and options (like video podcasts) are not covered below. This is designed for you to just jump in with zero cost to entry. Hardware-wise, you'll need a computer and a microphone.
STEP #1: RECORDING
You can use your computer's audio recorder and a microphone to record your voice (on a PC it's called "Sound Recorder"). If you want to record a conversation between two or more people, over distances, I use Skype with Call Graph. There are other solutions, of course, but I've used Skype with Call Graph* for many years without any problems.
STEP #2: EDITING
This step is optional, but I recommend it, because I've heard many unedited podcasts and they are terrible. You know, awkward silence, long pauses, "erms uhs ehs", etc. I use Audacity, which is a free open source audio editor. As usual, there are many audio editors out there, use the one that you are comfortable with.
STEP #3: HOSTING
Most podcasting hosts costs money and setting up your computer as your own server is time consuming and may have other hidden costs... For being free,
Podomatic is the best, based on my experiences. Alternatively Blogtalkradio is free, but limits your file to 30 minutes each. If you want to archive old files, personally, I am using archive.org as a free unlimited online storage locker.
STEP #4: ITUNES
The only game in town is iTunes, which has the biggest market for podcast discovery. To submit to them to be listed, you'll have to have an iTunes account and their software. Once you have your podcasting RSS link, you'll need to read iTunes' specs to figure out how to submit to them. If iTunes approve your show, they will add you to their directory.
Hopefully those four steps will help you launch your own podcasting adventure. Check out our show W♥M Radio, to hear a show created using these methods I mentioned above.
* Note: If the other person is not a Skype user, you will have to pay to "SkypeOut" to call their cellphone. I believe it's about 10 cents a minute or you can pay $30 a year for unlimited call out, so it's pretty affordable. As always, check with the Skype's prices for the current rates, I am only quoting what I have paid in the past.
ALSO NOTE: I used to have Comcast, and they have, in the past, disconnected me whenever they think I've been using Skype too much (you can hear the painful recording attempt here), because Comcast wanted us to their own IP phone services. I hated Comcast for years, I'm so glad I am using a different internet service that does not disconnect me whenever I'm using Skype. So just fair warning.
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W♥M Radio is available on iTunes, please subscribe!
Subscription Options
Subscribe on iTunes
Subscribe via RSS
____
Archive of this show at archive.org. More information on podomatic.com.
I've been doing this for a while, so I'm going to write a simple four-step guide, based on my own experiences. I use a Windows-based machine, so all the software that I reference are on a PC. Please send me your thoughts on Mac software alternatives.
Also, please note that this is all free, so paid services and options (like video podcasts) are not covered below. This is designed for you to just jump in with zero cost to entry. Hardware-wise, you'll need a computer and a microphone.
STEP #1: RECORDING
STEP #2: EDITING
STEP #3: HOSTING
STEP #4: ITUNES
Hopefully those four steps will help you launch your own podcasting adventure. Check out our show W♥M Radio, to hear a show created using these methods I mentioned above.
* Note: If the other person is not a Skype user, you will have to pay to "SkypeOut" to call their cellphone. I believe it's about 10 cents a minute or you can pay $30 a year for unlimited call out, so it's pretty affordable. As always, check with the Skype's prices for the current rates, I am only quoting what I have paid in the past.
ALSO NOTE: I used to have Comcast, and they have, in the past, disconnected me whenever they think I've been using Skype too much (you can hear the painful recording attempt here), because Comcast wanted us to their own IP phone services. I hated Comcast for years, I'm so glad I am using a different internet service that does not disconnect me whenever I'm using Skype. So just fair warning.
--
W♥M Radio is available on iTunes, please subscribe!
Subscription Options
Subscribe on iTunes
Subscribe via RSS
____
Archive of this show at archive.org. More information on podomatic.com.
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