Podcasting Essentials: How to Start Without Breaking the Bank | EP298

"The only wat to find your voice is to use it " - Jen Mueller

EP 298

TEXT ME

Starting a podcast is one of the best ways to grow your audience and build your brand, but I know so many people put it off because they think it's going to cost a fortune. In this episode, I break down exactly what you do—and don’t—need to spend money on to launch your podcast without breaking the bank. Spoiler alert: You don’t need a fancy studio or top-of-the-range equipment to get started. In fact, you can start with what you already have and upgrade as you go.

First things first, you need a microphone. But before you rush out and spend hundreds of pounds, know this: a simple pair of wired headphones with a built-in mic will do the job when you’re starting out. If you want to step it up, a USB microphone is a great investment and doesn’t have to cost more than £100. Forget about XLR microphones and expensive audio interfaces for now—keep it simple, keep it cost-effective. And when it comes to headphones, they’re only essential if you’re recording with a guest remotely to prevent audio bleed, but they don’t need to be expensive at all.

Recording and editing software is another area where people assume they need to spend money, but there are fantastic free options available. I use Audacity, which is completely free and works brilliantly for editing your podcast. If you’re recording remote interviews, Zoom is a great option—especially if you already have a subscription for your business. But if you’re looking for a podcast-specific platform, Riverside FM is an excellent alternative, though it does come at a cost. The key takeaway? You don’t need high-end software to produce a great podcast.

Next up: hosting. You need a podcast host to distribute your episodes to platforms like Apple Podcasts and Spotify. I highly recommend Buzzsprout, which offers a 90-day free trial and a $20 credit when you sign up through my link. While there are free hosting options, they often come with limitations, and Buzzsprout provides great customer service and an easy-to-use platform. Once you’ve got your hosting sorted, the only other essential is your podcast branding—your cover art. You can easily create this yourself using Canva. Just keep it simple, on-brand, and avoid clutter (and for goodness’ sake, you don’t need a microphone graphic on it!).

What don’t you need? A soundproof studio. Honestly, recording in a well-cushioned space—like a wardrobe or even with cushions around your microphone—can work just as well. You also don’t need to spend money on paid ads to grow your podcast at the beginning. Focus on organic growth, networking, and repurposing content instead. And you certainly don’t need expensive editing services. If you do decide to outsource editing, consider a skill swap with someone who can help in exchange for podcast sponsorship.

Ultimately, starting a podcast doesn’t have to be expensive. With less than £100 and some smart planning, you can launch a professional-sounding podcast and see if it’s something you love before investing further. Don’t let the fear of cost hold you back—start with what you have and grow from there. If you’ve got any questions, come and find me on LinkedIn or in my Start a Podcast UK Facebook group. And don’t forget—if you’re ready to take things further, my in-person birthday event on 3rd April is the perfect place to dive deeper into podcasting and business growth. See you next week for episode 299!

Start Your Podcast my 8 week program is available to start today if you want to create and launch your podcast join me. I will be changing the program in March and the price will be going up so join now to get the best price Join Here

Bye For Now!

Show notes Links

TEXT ME - got feedback or questions on the show send me a direct text

BOOK the LIVE event here use code earlybird50 at checkout. Early bird tickets are ending on the 28th

FOR TODAY'S LINKS SEE PRODUCTES AND SERVICES I RECOMMEND BELOW

Read from my Book Shelf & My Guests Book Shelf

Access my FREE Masterclass Understanding the Power of Podcasting ~ Register Here

Support the show - Buy me a cuppa

MIC ACTION PODCAST Spotify or Podchaser

Join the Pod Squad group on FB in the podcast group

Want to Guest? Apply here >>FORM

Want to learn how to land more guest appearances and turn them into ultimate lead generators for you? Check out Hell Yes Guest Here

Products/Services I recommend:
FEA Create Simple all-in-one web, CRM, email system
For graphics Canva
For Email Convert Kit

Podcast Hosting Buzzsprout

Podcast Editing and Recording solo Audacity

My Podcast Equipment

Want to grow your Email List check out List Builders Society I have LBS and I thoroughly enjoyed working through this course

Want to start a podcast take the QUIZ and find out which show type would best suit you.

Edited and produced by Donna Eade

Affiliate Disclaimer: Some links above may be affiliate links which means I might earn a small commission if you choose to buy at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support 😊

Join the Facebook Group to continue the conversation or Join the PodSquad notification crew for email updates