https://www.spreaker.com/show/podcasting-made-easySteve has been podcasting since 2009 and has launched and hosted numerous podcasts. It's that experience, and his background as a broadcaster, that make this down-to-earth podcast great listening.]]>enMarketingCopyright Steve Harthttps://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/b8f747ca537deafd85d2b1ad869b1284.jpghttps://www.spreaker.com/show/podcasting-made-easySat, 08 Apr 2023 00:43:51 +0000Steve HartSteve Hartfeeds@spreaker.comLearn all you need to start podcasting and up your game. Podcasting Made Easy is the show for novices and more established podcasters and is hosted by Steve Hart; author of the book Podcasting Made Easy. Steve has been podcasting since 2009 and has...Steve has been podcasting since 2009 and has launched and hosted numerous podcasts. It's that experience, and his background as a broadcaster, that make this down-to-earth podcast great listening.]]>cleanepisodichttps://www.spreaker.com/user/steve_hart/facebook-phone-calls-and-call-in-studiohttps://stevehart.co.nz/?p=15594Thu, 11 Nov 2021 00:12:40 +0000Steve HartA chance Facebook call proved how versatile the platform can be for podcast interviews, and if you want to take your calls up a notch test out Call In Studio.284cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/user/steve_hart/turn-your-podcast-show-notes-into-a-book


One way to do this is to create a PDF or digital book made up of the key points of your podcasts, collated show notes, or with extra information that will be of interest to your subscribers.



You can keep it simple with a small PDF of a few thousand words that you give away to new subscribers to your mailing list, give it away as a free-be to all, or go further and write a far more in-depth book that can be sold via print-on-demand sites such as IngramSpark - and offered as both a digital and hard copy publication worldwide.



If you enjoy writing then producing these PDF documents can be great fun, if not ask someone to help you write and design it.



As an example, here is my Podcasting Made Easy cheat sheet, normally reserved for subscribers to my mailing list but made available here for a short time by way of illustration.



As always, if you have any questions about podcasting then do let me know.]]>https://www.stevehart.co.nz/?p=15532Fri, 17 Sep 2021 16:11:00 +0000Steve HartCreating added value for your podcast subscribers is a great way to raise or boost your profile. One way to do this is to create a PDF or digital book made up of the key points of your podcasts, collated show notes, or with extra information that...


One way to do this is to create a PDF or digital book made up of the key points of your podcasts, collated show notes, or with extra information that will be of interest to your subscribers.



You can keep it simple with a small PDF of a few thousand words that you give away to new subscribers to your mailing list, give it away as a free-be to all, or go further and write a far more in-depth book that can be sold via print-on-demand sites such as IngramSpark - and offered as both a digital and hard copy publication worldwide.



If you enjoy writing then producing these PDF documents can be great fun, if not ask someone to help you write and design it.



As an example, here is my Podcasting Made Easy cheat sheet, normally reserved for subscribers to my mailing list but made available here for a short time by way of illustration.



As always, if you have any questions about podcasting then do let me know.]]>514cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/user/steve_hart/how-to-juice-up-your-interviews


Get the inside track on editing interviews in this edition (37) of Podcasting Made Easy.]]>https://www.stevehart.co.nz/?p=15485Thu, 09 Sep 2021 06:49:13 +0000Steve HartSure, we all know to remove unwanted noises and mistakes from our podcasts, but audio editing can involve a lot more than the obvious. There's an art to it that can really improve the impact your interviews have on your audience. Get the inside...


Get the inside track on editing interviews in this edition (37) of Podcasting Made Easy.]]>270cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/user/steve_hart/in-a-sea-of-audio-apps-ocenaudio-stands-


I've recommended Ocenaudio to many friends who were looking for a simple no-frills way to record their voice overs, podcasts, and professional radio shows.



The app is regularly updated, almost every month I reckon, and will serve most people's needs – so long as you don't need multi-track recording and know the difference between a destructive audio editor and a non-destructive one.



Ocenaudio is a destructive editor. That means, if you record something with it and start cutting and editing, you will be working with the original source file. So the trick is to record, Save, and then Save As with a new name (V2 for example). Thereby keeping a back-up of the original well out of harm's way. However, the app does offer multiple undos if you want to take your edits back a few steps.



Users can highlight small sections - such as where breath noises may appear – and lower the volume using a volume slider that appears right where the edit is taking place, there's a highlight and delete option of course, you can highlight all and normalise.



Ocenaudio works on all platforms (Windows, Mac, Linux), offers real time effects – meaning that during playback – as you alter EQ (for example) you will hear the changes as you move the EQ sliders.



It is VST compatible, includes many audio enhancement options – such as noise reduction – along with many effects podcasters will not need, such as reverb, echo, chorus and flanger etc. For the really adventurous (apply with caution) there are audio limiting and compression options along with dozens of other built-in effects. you can also convert a stereo file to mono (and visa-versa) using an option in the Edit menu.



The app records in the WAV format by default, offers numerous recording sample rates, channels (mono, stereo, multi) and Bit rate options (16, 24, 32), and exports to dozens of popular formats (MP3, OGG etc).



However, most of what it is capable of will be superfluous to the podcaster who merely needs to record their voice for export to a low-res mono MP3 file and edit files quickly.



While the Ocenaudio app is free, anyone using it really should make a donation to support the people who produce it as it is too good to be free. Give it a test drive and if you like it, make a donation.



If you need to bring your audio into a multi-track app for mixing in music or perform really seamless audio editing etc, then I recommend Reaper. At a one-off fee of $60 (free trial) it's a lot cheaper than Adobe Audition and Pro Tools etc, and is – in my opinion – head and shoulders above the free open source Audacity app (which is a fine app, but...).



As always, if you have any advice you'd like to share with fellow podcasters then do let me know.]]>https://www.stevehart.co.nz/?p=15330Sun, 05 Sep 2021 11:34:47 +0000Steve HartThere's an audio recording and editing app I've been using on and off for a few years now that's ideal for recording podcasts and radio shows. It's totally free, reliable, and as solid as any audio app can be. I've recommended Ocenaudio to many...


I've recommended Ocenaudio to many friends who were looking for a simple no-frills way to record their voice overs, podcasts, and professional radio shows.



The app is regularly updated, almost every month I reckon, and will serve most people's needs – so long as you don't need multi-track recording and know the difference between a destructive audio editor and a non-destructive one.



Ocenaudio is a destructive editor. That means, if you record something with it and start cutting and editing, you will be working with the original source file. So the trick is to record, Save, and then Save As with a new name (V2 for example). Thereby keeping a back-up of the original well out of harm's way. However, the app does offer multiple undos if you want to take your edits back a few steps.



Users can highlight small sections - such as where breath noises may appear – and lower the volume using a volume slider that appears right where the edit is taking place, there's a highlight and delete option of course, you can highlight all and normalise.



Ocenaudio works on all platforms (Windows, Mac, Linux), offers real time effects – meaning that during playback – as you alter EQ (for example) you will hear the changes as you move the EQ sliders.



It is VST compatible, includes many audio enhancement options – such as noise reduction – along with many effects podcasters will not need, such as reverb, echo, chorus and flanger etc. For the really adventurous (apply with caution) there are audio limiting and compression options along with dozens of other built-in effects. you can also convert a stereo file to mono (and visa-versa) using an option in the Edit menu.



The app records in the WAV format by default, offers numerous recording sample rates, channels (mono, stereo, multi) and Bit rate options (16, 24, 32), and exports to dozens of popular formats (MP3, OGG etc).



However, most of what it is capable of will be superfluous to the podcaster who merely needs to record their voice for export to a low-res mono MP3 file and edit files quickly.



While the Ocenaudio app is free, anyone using it really should make a donation to support the people who produce it as it is too good to be free. Give it a test drive and if you like it, make a donation.



If you need to bring your audio into a multi-track app for mixing in music or perform really seamless audio editing etc, then I recommend Reaper. At a one-off fee of $60 (free trial) it's a lot cheaper than Adobe Audition and Pro Tools etc, and is – in my opinion – head and shoulders above the free open source Audacity app (which is a fine app, but...).



As always, if you have any advice you'd like to share with fellow podcasters then do let me know.]]>397cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/user/steve_hart/whos-your-biggest-competition


Well, perhaps mistakes is the wrong word. Listen back to decide what you can learn from your previous performances, your interviewing technique, and decide what you can do better next time.



Could you have asked your guest more interesting and relevant questions? Does your microphone technique need some work? Perhaps you went overboard on post production and audio processing?



No matter how much experience you have as a podcaster, you will always learn something about yourself by listening back to older shows. And by doing this you will become a better and more professional podcaster.



And if you want to find out who your biggest competition is...The answer is in this edition of Podcasting Made Easy.



Have a great week.



Steve]]>https://www.stevehart.co.nz/?p=15326Tue, 31 Aug 2021 06:07:50 +0000Steve HartIt's old advice, but well worth repeating. After you have a good number of podcasts under your belt it's a good idea to listen back to older shows to see what you can learn from your mistakes. Well, perhaps mistakes is the wrong word. Listen back...


Well, perhaps mistakes is the wrong word. Listen back to decide what you can learn from your previous performances, your interviewing technique, and decide what you can do better next time.



Could you have asked your guest more interesting and relevant questions? Does your microphone technique need some work? Perhaps you went overboard on post production and audio processing?



No matter how much experience you have as a podcaster, you will always learn something about yourself by listening back to older shows. And by doing this you will become a better and more professional podcaster.



And if you want to find out who your biggest competition is...The answer is in this edition of Podcasting Made Easy.



Have a great week.



Steve]]>306cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/user/steve_hart/how-to-build-your-podcast-listener-base


After all the technical aspects of recording and getting your podcast listed on the key platforms is done, the hard work begins – building an audience.



However, remember that 70% of podcasts are accessed via iTunes, so if you aren’t already listed there, stop listening now and get that step completed.



If you do little more than list your podcast without any promotion or marketing then you could be in for a lot of disappointment when it comes to show subscribers and listeners.



While you may have a website and a social media presence for your podcast, you will need to get your podcast in front of your potential audience.



This could involve you sharing your podcast with relevant groups on social media sites, and searching out specialist websites that cover subjects your podcast might touch on. For example, you could link to your podcast in a comments section of a trade forum page.



When you post links to your show on social media remember to use the correct hashtags to help people find it.



If you have interviewed someone then obviously ask them to share the interview with their network. This route to marketing your podcast can’t be understated and you need to strike while the iron is hot. 



In other words, while you and the guest are in contact, while the podcast is fresh, you shoul encourage them to share it far and wide, because they may have a huge database of potential listeners who might choose to subscribe to your show.



Edit key clips of the conversation to produce a teaser or cliff-hanger that will pique the interest of the listener so they click through to the full podcast.



Show notes are a must-have (example here :-) ) to help your show to be found. Not only should the show notes be posted on your website but you could add them to the MP3 meta data area too. Or go the whole hog and transcribe the whole show using any one of a number of AI transcribing sites such as Otter.



Use the transcription to write up a press release of around 300 words and send it to press release distribution firms, and relevant publishers.



If you’re really keen, run a contest with a prize of something tangible such as a branded cap or T-shirt, maybe a signed book written by your guest, or a gift voucher to be used in your online store if you have one.



If you mention a brand or company in your show then let the company know, contact their PR people and they may re-share your podcast with their followers. It could be the start of a beautiful friendship.



And if you are about to launch your first podcast, do yourself a favour and list 2 or 3 episodes on day one. It may mean delaying the launch of your podcast, but listeners like to see more than the launch episode when they see your show for the first time.



And it might help you become a New and Noteworthy podcast at iTunes.]]>https://www.stevehart.co.nz/?p=15286Mon, 23 Aug 2021 23:01:32 +0000Steve HartIf you like shouting into the wind then making a podcast could be for you. After all the technical aspects of recording and getting your podcast listed on the key platforms is done, the hard work begins – building an audience. However, remember...


After all the technical aspects of recording and getting your podcast listed on the key platforms is done, the hard work begins – building an audience.



However, remember that 70% of podcasts are accessed via iTunes, so if you aren’t already listed there, stop listening now and get that step completed.



If you do little more than list your podcast without any promotion or marketing then you could be in for a lot of disappointment when it comes to show subscribers and listeners.



While you may have a website and a social media presence for your podcast, you will need to get your podcast in front of your potential audience.



This could involve you sharing your podcast with relevant groups on social media sites, and searching out specialist websites that cover subjects your podcast might touch on. For example, you could link to your podcast in a comments section of a trade forum page.



When you post links to your show on social media remember to use the correct hashtags to help people find it.



If you have interviewed someone then obviously ask them to share the interview with their network. This route to marketing your podcast can’t be understated and you need to strike while the iron is hot. 



In other words, while you and the guest are in contact, while the podcast is fresh, you shoul encourage them to share it far and wide, because they may have a huge database of potential listeners who might choose to subscribe to your show.



Edit key clips of the conversation to produce a teaser or cliff-hanger that will pique the interest of the listener so they click through to the full podcast.



Show notes are a must-have (example here :-) ) to help your show to be found. Not only should the show notes be posted on your website but you could add them to the MP3 meta data area too. Or go the whole hog and transcribe the whole show using any one of a number of AI transcribing sites such as Otter.



Use the transcription to write up a press release of around 300 words and send it to press release distribution firms, and relevant publishers.



If you’re really keen, run a contest with a prize of something tangible such as a branded cap or T-shirt, maybe a signed book written by your guest, or a gift voucher to be used in your online store if you have one.



If you mention a brand or company in your show then let the company know, contact their PR people and they may re-share your podcast with their followers. It could be the start of a beautiful friendship.



And if you are about to launch your first podcast, do yourself a favour and list 2 or 3 episodes on day one. It may mean delaying the launch of your podcast, but listeners like to see more than the launch episode when they see your show for the first time.



And it might help you become a New and Noteworthy podcast at iTunes.]]>463cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/user/steve_hart/books-for-podcasters


Having worked in broadcasting during the 80s (using vinyl and tape), and then rekindling my love of broadcasting with a podcast in 2008, I thought it about time I refreshed my own skills by reading what other people are advising.



I also host a radio show, and that led me to buy Valerie Gellers' Beyond Powerful Radio – A Communicator's Guide to the Internet Age.



This is quite a hefty tomb, and while of general interest to me, much of what it had to offer was for those actually working at a radio station, managing staff, or hosting talk shows and phone-in programmes. Still, I found it interesting, useful and refer to it regularly.



Next up is Viral Podcasting by Kerry Lutz who proclaims the book offers a "proven process to earn a 6-figure income from your show". The book features contributions from Valerie Geller.



Lutz's "6-figure income" claim is a bit hard to swallow, but hey – you might get lucky. Still, the book is well worth a read if you are starting out.



Top of the pile for me though is Essential Radio Skills by Peter Stewart (there are two editions and the 2009 first edition will be cheaper that the 2010 update). I got a lot of good information from this book as plenty of what's included can be applied to podcasting, even though it is aimed at music presenters working in radio broadcasting.







Perhaps it's because I host a little syndicated radio show that it appealed to me so much, but I think it will be a handy read for any podcaster looking to produce a professional show.



Before you splash out loads of cash, ask around to see if your friends and colleagues have any of these book to borrow, check out your library and used book sellers. My preference is to avoid using Amazon due to its exploitation of warehouse staff around the world and recent stories of the firm dumping perfectly good products.



And if you have a favourite book about podcasting or broadcasting to recommend then do let me know...



Book links are affiliate links.]]>https://www.stevehart.co.nz/?p=15050Mon, 16 Aug 2021 14:42:00 +0000Steve HartWhen it comes books to help you find your way as a podcaster, the field is wide open (I've even written one myself). Having worked in broadcasting during the 80s (using vinyl and tape), and then rekindling my love of broadcasting with a podcast in...


Having worked in broadcasting during the 80s (using vinyl and tape), and then rekindling my love of broadcasting with a podcast in 2008, I thought it about time I refreshed my own skills by reading what other people are advising.



I also host a radio show, and that led me to buy Valerie Gellers' Beyond Powerful Radio – A Communicator's Guide to the Internet Age.



This is quite a hefty tomb, and while of general interest to me, much of what it had to offer was for those actually working at a radio station, managing staff, or hosting talk shows and phone-in programmes. Still, I found it interesting, useful and refer to it regularly.



Next up is Viral Podcasting by Kerry Lutz who proclaims the book offers a "proven process to earn a 6-figure income from your show". The book features contributions from Valerie Geller.



Lutz's "6-figure income" claim is a bit hard to swallow, but hey – you might get lucky. Still, the book is well worth a read if you are starting out.



Top of the pile for me though is Essential Radio Skills by Peter Stewart (there are two editions and the 2009 first edition will be cheaper that the 2010 update). I got a lot of good information from this book as plenty of what's included can be applied to podcasting, even though it is aimed at music presenters working in radio broadcasting.







Perhaps it's because I host a little syndicated radio show that it appealed to me so much, but I think it will be a handy read for any podcaster looking to produce a professional show.



Before you splash out loads of cash, ask around to see if your friends and colleagues have any of these book to borrow, check out your library and used book sellers. My preference is to avoid using Amazon due to its exploitation of warehouse staff around the world and recent stories of the firm dumping perfectly good products.



And if you have a favourite book about podcasting or broadcasting to recommend then do let me know...



Book links are affiliate links.]]>566cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/user/steve_hart/how-to-interview-your-podcast-guests


However, the more you know about your guest, and the reason you are interviewing them, then the better you will feel going in, and the better the interview will be for you, the guest and more importantly, your listeners.



My golden rule is 'never interupt' the interviewee when they are answering a question. Which is really hard to do if they say something that make you want to chip in with a follow-up question before they've finished - don't.



But listen to this edition of Podcasting Made Easy for my take on interviewing your podcast guests.



And do checkout this 'how to' feature here and check out my Podcasting Made Easy book here.



As always, I am keen to hear your feedback and podcasting questions via my contact form.



Cheers,



Steve.




https://youtu.be/Dzuw1ovpCMs]]>https://www.stevehart.co.nz/?p=15031Mon, 09 Aug 2021 14:03:00 +0000Steve HartIf you are knew to interviewing guests on your podcast you may feel a little nervous. That's only natural. However, the more you know about your guest, and the reason you are interviewing them, then the better you will feel going in, and the better...


However, the more you know about your guest, and the reason you are interviewing them, then the better you will feel going in, and the better the interview will be for you, the guest and more importantly, your listeners.



My golden rule is 'never interupt' the interviewee when they are answering a question. Which is really hard to do if they say something that make you want to chip in with a follow-up question before they've finished - don't.



But listen to this edition of Podcasting Made Easy for my take on interviewing your podcast guests.



And do checkout this 'how to' feature here and check out my Podcasting Made Easy book here.



As always, I am keen to hear your feedback and podcasting questions via my contact form.



Cheers,



Steve.




https://youtu.be/Dzuw1ovpCMs]]>380cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/user/steve_hart/get-to-know-your-microphone


Only rarely can you just plug a mic in expect it to record a great performance. Every microphone has its own personality, it will like some things and not others.



It might pop a plosive at one angle and not another. It might sound great if you speak into in one direction, but not another.



Al mics have their sweet spot for your voice, and your environment also plays a part too.



So to record the best podcast, to get the best quality recording, means you have to understand what your mic likes and what it doesn't.



In this episode of Podcasting Made Easy I'll explore some of the way in which you can record your best performance as a podcaster.



As always, flick through your podcasting question to me at www.stevehart.co.nz



Cheers,



Steve]]>https://www.stevehart.co.nz/?p=15026Sat, 31 Jul 2021 04:43:35 +0000Steve HartNo matter how much you spend on a microphone the key to getting the best from it is for you to get to know it. To treat it like a friend. Only rarely can you just plug a mic in expect it to record a great performance. Every microphone has its own...


Only rarely can you just plug a mic in expect it to record a great performance. Every microphone has its own personality, it will like some things and not others.



It might pop a plosive at one angle and not another. It might sound great if you speak into in one direction, but not another.



Al mics have their sweet spot for your voice, and your environment also plays a part too.



So to record the best podcast, to get the best quality recording, means you have to understand what your mic likes and what it doesn't.



In this episode of Podcasting Made Easy I'll explore some of the way in which you can record your best performance as a podcaster.



As always, flick through your podcasting question to me at www.stevehart.co.nz



Cheers,



Steve]]>387cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/user/steve_hart/why-you-need-to-build-an-email-database


Some people wear the postponement of services as a badge of honour, others are mortified, while others probably knew they were trying their luck with comments about current issues that the rest of us only talk about in whispers to trusted friends.



I was blocked from using Facebook the other week for 24 hours, and I still do not understand why. My messages to Facebook asking for an explanation went unanswered.



So what would happen if your audience were shut out of using social media, or if you found yourself in hot water with the social media de-platform bots? You'd risk losing the ability to connect with your followers, to tell them of your new episode etc.



The fact is, social media is so easy to use. It's so easy to build an audience and a following with people around the world. The downside is that you only have access to your followers until the platform you use decides otherwise.



So in episode 30 of Podcasting Made Easy I am advising you to start building your own email database of followers and podcast listeners – so social media cannot cut you off.]]>https://www.stevehart.co.nz/?p=14964Thu, 08 Jul 2021 04:32:08 +0000Steve HartAnyone who uses social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter and YouTube etc will have heard of at least one person who has been banned, de-platformed, or had their account frozen for a few days. Some people wear the postponement of services as...


Some people wear the postponement of services as a badge of honour, others are mortified, while others probably knew they were trying their luck with comments about current issues that the rest of us only talk about in whispers to trusted friends.



I was blocked from using Facebook the other week for 24 hours, and I still do not understand why. My messages to Facebook asking for an explanation went unanswered.



So what would happen if your audience were shut out of using social media, or if you found yourself in hot water with the social media de-platform bots? You'd risk losing the ability to connect with your followers, to tell them of your new episode etc.



The fact is, social media is so easy to use. It's so easy to build an audience and a following with people around the world. The downside is that you only have access to your followers until the platform you use decides otherwise.



So in episode 30 of Podcasting Made Easy I am advising you to start building your own email database of followers and podcast listeners – so social media cannot cut you off.]]>287cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/user/steve_hart/the-most-important-element-of-recording-_1


While plenty of people had the where-with-all to record something, plenty were stumped when it came to distributing their shows and getting them on the key podcast distribution sites.



Nevertheless, the most popular question was about which microphone to buy, closely followed by which app to record and edit with.



My view is that almost any microphone you have is likely good enough, where most people need to pay attention is the room in which they record in. And that's the key subject of this podcast.



As for the apps... Well I am currently using the free OcenAudio app for recording (surprisingly versatile and full-featured) and Reaper for (non-destructive) editing / post production (free 30-day trial or $60).]]>https://www.stevehart.co.nz/?p=14359Wed, 02 Dec 2020 08:03:00 +0000Steve HartIt seemed every man, woman, and their dog wanted to start a podcast in 2020. I guess people suddenly had time on their hands and decided that the time was right to launch the podcast they'd been talking about for the past five years. While plenty...


While plenty of people had the where-with-all to record something, plenty were stumped when it came to distributing their shows and getting them on the key podcast distribution sites.



Nevertheless, the most popular question was about which microphone to buy, closely followed by which app to record and edit with.



My view is that almost any microphone you have is likely good enough, where most people need to pay attention is the room in which they record in. And that's the key subject of this podcast.



As for the apps... Well I am currently using the free OcenAudio app for recording (surprisingly versatile and full-featured) and Reaper for (non-destructive) editing / post production (free 30-day trial or $60).]]>466cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/user/steve_hart/why-you-starting-your-first-podcast_1


I'm here to say that you have a voice and if you want to start podcasting then you owe it to yourself to at least start.



You may discover it's not for you (as there is a bit of donkey work involved - writing these show notes for example).



But you may love it, get into your stride and build a whole new hobby or raise your profile to become the 'go to' person for information on your subject matter / genre.



My advice though, is to write down the subject headings of your first 10 podcasts before you start - particularly if your show is not driven by news and events.



If you still have the enthusiasm for hosting podcasts after the first 10 episodes have been released then you may be onto something.



If not...well podcasting isn't for everyone – so perhaps use a different outlet, start a blog and publish your thoughts or grab a camera and make videos about it.



But don't let self doubt get in the way....]]>https://www.stevehart.co.nz/?p=13734Sat, 05 Sep 2020 02:48:00 +0000Steve HartLots of people want to start a podcast but put it off because they doubt themselves. I'm here to say that you have a voice and if you want to start podcasting then you owe it to yourself to at least start. You may discover it's not for you (as...


I'm here to say that you have a voice and if you want to start podcasting then you owe it to yourself to at least start.



You may discover it's not for you (as there is a bit of donkey work involved - writing these show notes for example).



But you may love it, get into your stride and build a whole new hobby or raise your profile to become the 'go to' person for information on your subject matter / genre.



My advice though, is to write down the subject headings of your first 10 podcasts before you start - particularly if your show is not driven by news and events.



If you still have the enthusiasm for hosting podcasts after the first 10 episodes have been released then you may be onto something.



If not...well podcasting isn't for everyone – so perhaps use a different outlet, start a blog and publish your thoughts or grab a camera and make videos about it.



But don't let self doubt get in the way....]]>256cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/user/steve_hart/how-to-avoid-low-audio-quality-with-voip_1


In addition to low audio quality, there are often frequent audio drop-outs and sometimes people's voices become fuzzy and garbled – just when they say something important.



So while Voip services can be used to record a podcast interview, if you really do want the best possible audio quality then there is a simple(ish) workaround that includes using the Voip service of your choice together with a belt-and-braces approach.



And that required each party to the interview to record themselves locally.



They can use a digital recorder, perhaps their phone (at a high quality audio setting), or a mic connected to their computer.



Any audio issues resulting from the Voip service will be inconsequential as you will have 'clean' audio recorded locally.



Then you just bring those recordings into your multi-track audio editing and work with the supplied files.



But even then, it's not foolproof - as audio drift can be an issue - but there is a solution...]]>https://www.stevehart.co.nz/?p=13649Sat, 29 Aug 2020 05:09:22 +0000Steve HartWe are all used to chatting with people via Voice Over IP (Voip) services such as Skype and Zoom etc, and we all know the audio quality isn't always that brilliant. In addition to low audio quality, there are often frequent audio drop-outs and...


In addition to low audio quality, there are often frequent audio drop-outs and sometimes people's voices become fuzzy and garbled – just when they say something important.



So while Voip services can be used to record a podcast interview, if you really do want the best possible audio quality then there is a simple(ish) workaround that includes using the Voip service of your choice together with a belt-and-braces approach.



And that required each party to the interview to record themselves locally.



They can use a digital recorder, perhaps their phone (at a high quality audio setting), or a mic connected to their computer.



Any audio issues resulting from the Voip service will be inconsequential as you will have 'clean' audio recorded locally.



Then you just bring those recordings into your multi-track audio editing and work with the supplied files.



But even then, it's not foolproof - as audio drift can be an issue - but there is a solution...]]>525cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/user/steve_hart/five-ideas-to-boost-your-podcast_1


To help out, here are five ideas to lift your show out of the doldrums… In no particular order:



* Ensure your podcast offers real value to your listeners. What practical advice and information can you share that will not only resonant with your listeners, but really help them? * Is your firm involved in community projects, or has it donated to a good cause in the community? If so, tell your listeners those stories by featuring the people your company is helping. * Expand your podcast now and again to include photos and video on the episode's web page. Add a bit of extra content to generate added interest.* Have you recorded a very long episode? Is it too long? Release two versions. A cut down episode featuring the highlights and key points for distribution, and a full version that only resides on your website. Promote the long version in the short version of your podcast.* Don't forget the listeners! Invite feedback and questions about your industry. You never know what you'll be asked and it will make for some fascinating episodes.]]>https://www.stevehart.co.nz/?p=13472Fri, 31 Jul 2020 20:55:00 +0000Steve HartIt's easy to get in a rut when it comes to producing a podcast every week – particularly if you are hosting a podcast on behalf of your company. Where do the story ideas come from? To help out, here are five ideas to lift your show out of the...


To help out, here are five ideas to lift your show out of the doldrums… In no particular order:



* Ensure your podcast offers real value to your listeners. What practical advice and information can you share that will not only resonant with your listeners, but really help them? * Is your firm involved in community projects, or has it donated to a good cause in the community? If so, tell your listeners those stories by featuring the people your company is helping. * Expand your podcast now and again to include photos and video on the episode's web page. Add a bit of extra content to generate added interest.* Have you recorded a very long episode? Is it too long? Release two versions. A cut down episode featuring the highlights and key points for distribution, and a full version that only resides on your website. Promote the long version in the short version of your podcast.* Don't forget the listeners! Invite feedback and questions about your industry. You never know what you'll be asked and it will make for some fascinating episodes.]]>532cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/user/steve_hart/royalty-free-music-for-podcasters_1


For your show's intro you are best off using Royalty Free Music. Which is not ‘Free Music'. It is Royalty free music. Which means that once you have paid to use it; or obtained it legally from a royalty free library, then you are able to use it without having to pay every time you use it.



While to can use your typewriter to Google royalty free music libraries; I have saved you the effort if you want free music. That's right; royalty free music that you can use for zero payment.



My top three (in no particular order) are:



* The Free Music Archive* Facebook Creator Studio* YouTube Audio Library



If you know of any other free (legal) libraries then do let me know.



In addition, most PCs come with music-making apps. Why not create something unique?



All the best,



Steve]]>https://www.stevehart.co.nz/?p=13392Mon, 27 Jul 2020 10:44:00 +0000Steve HartWe've all seen the discussions about using music in podcasts…That's right – you can't use this week's number one as the intro to your show – unless you have a licence to cover the royalties, have permission from all owners of the track, or you are...


For your show's intro you are best off using Royalty Free Music. Which is not ‘Free Music'. It is Royalty free music. Which means that once you have paid to use it; or obtained it legally from a royalty free library, then you are able to use it without having to pay every time you use it.



While to can use your typewriter to Google royalty free music libraries; I have saved you the effort if you want free music. That's right; royalty free music that you can use for zero payment.



My top three (in no particular order) are:



* The Free Music Archive* Facebook Creator Studio* YouTube Audio Library



If you know of any other free (legal) libraries then do let me know.



In addition, most PCs come with music-making apps. Why not create something unique?



All the best,



Steve]]>367cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/user/steve_hart/get-a-website-for-your-podcast_1


It provides a central anchor point for the podcast that isn't reliant on any streaming service and it allows you to create and publish content that isn't a podcast.



For example, you may decide that a written feature is the best way to share information along with relevant hotlinks. Or perhaps there are photos and videos you want to share.



Bringing all your content under one roof can help centralise your podcasts and all the other bits and bobs you do.



And you can give people a place to subscribe – not only to your podcast but everything else you do too. I use a free Mailchimp account that is connected to my RSS feed. It means that when I publish a post, the subscriber email is sent automatically.



There are plenty of free options for websites, but for the most flexibility – and ownership – I prefer to host my a WordPress site on my own hosting plan.



If you haven't got a website for your podcast, then do consider it. And yes, get the domain name that's the same name as your podcast (if at all possible).



If you have any questions about podcasts or WordPress website than do drop me a line.



Cheers,



Steve]]>https://www.stevehart.co.nz/?p=13232Thu, 18 Jun 2020 09:00:21 +0000Steve HartHaving a dedicated website for your podcast can help podcasters in lots of ways. It provides a central anchor point for the podcast that isn't reliant on any streaming service and it allows you to create and publish content that isn't a podcast....


It provides a central anchor point for the podcast that isn't reliant on any streaming service and it allows you to create and publish content that isn't a podcast.



For example, you may decide that a written feature is the best way to share information along with relevant hotlinks. Or perhaps there are photos and videos you want to share.



Bringing all your content under one roof can help centralise your podcasts and all the other bits and bobs you do.



And you can give people a place to subscribe – not only to your podcast but everything else you do too. I use a free Mailchimp account that is connected to my RSS feed. It means that when I publish a post, the subscriber email is sent automatically.



There are plenty of free options for websites, but for the most flexibility – and ownership – I prefer to host my a WordPress site on my own hosting plan.



If you haven't got a website for your podcast, then do consider it. And yes, get the domain name that's the same name as your podcast (if at all possible).



If you have any questions about podcasts or WordPress website than do drop me a line.



Cheers,



Steve]]>326cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/user/steve_hart/use-a-podcast-for-content-marketing_1


Years ago podcasts were the product of geeks serving a niche market (they used to be called audioblogs). But during the last few years podcasting has mushroomed into the mainstream. Everyone you speak with seems to have at least one favourite podcast.



And according to survey company Roy Morgan, last year (2019) more than 320,000 New Zealanders downloaded audio or video podcasts in an average four weeks, an increase of nearly 150,000 compared to 2016 – an 82 per cent increase.



A survey by Radio New Zealand released in June 2019 showed 31 per cent of Kiwi's download podcasts. And 48 per cent of all podcast listeners in New Zealand are aged under 45-years-old.



Any marketer has to concede that podcasting is not a passing fad. 



The founder of the Content Marketing Institute, Joe Pulizzi, says podcasts offer “the best definition of ‘content’ I’ve seen”.



It seems pretty clear to me there is plenty of room for business owners to exploit the podcast platform to promote their brand and increase thier relationship with their current and future customers.



Audio offers a level of convenience, reach and engagement that is unmatched by any other medium. Why do you think radio is still so popular?



However, your podcast content has to be engaging. You have to put the audience first. You can’t just say “buy from us because we are good”. That’s a commercial. You have to deliver much more than that. You have to give something away. Any thoughts of a sale must come after the relationship has been established.



The content of your podcast could a story about how you helped a customer; about how you came up with the idea of your widget, the lessons learned in its development, the failures, the problem solving, your successes. Honest stories that build credibility and trust.



Use podcasts to tell your story and the stories behind your services and products, as well as share industry news and information, along with your pick of future trends in your industry.



A podcast is less time consuming to make than a video, and can provide an easy way for you to include other people in the recording. They are cheap to distribute too.



There’s also a level of trust that’s built up by people listening to your voice, getting to know you, and getting a feel for your personality.



A podcast can help establish you as an expert, an authority within your industry. It will expand your reach to people you could never otherwise hope to meet or influence.



Too shy to put yourself out there? Don't like hearing your own voice? Well, dig deep, and embrace the medium.



Think you need expensive equipment? No, you can start by recording on your phone – speaking directly into its microphone, and doing any editing on the free audio app that came with your PC.



Produce one a week; build a following, and watch your brand grow.]]>https://www.stevehart.co.nz/?p=13148Fri, 15 May 2020 01:13:12 +0000Steve HartPodcasts are an ideal addition to any company's content marketing mix – and here’s why. Every current survey of podcast listenership shows that an increasing number of people are listening to them. Years ago podcasts were the product of geeks...


Years ago podcasts were the product of geeks serving a niche market (they used to be called audioblogs). But during the last few years podcasting has mushroomed into the mainstream. Everyone you speak with seems to have at least one favourite podcast.



And according to survey company Roy Morgan, last year (2019) more than 320,000 New Zealanders downloaded audio or video podcasts in an average four weeks, an increase of nearly 150,000 compared to 2016 – an 82 per cent increase.



A survey by Radio New Zealand released in June 2019 showed 31 per cent of Kiwi's download podcasts. And 48 per cent of all podcast listeners in New Zealand are aged under 45-years-old.



Any marketer has to concede that podcasting is not a passing fad. 



The founder of the Content Marketing Institute, Joe Pulizzi, says podcasts offer “the best definition of ‘content’ I’ve seen”.



It seems pretty clear to me there is plenty of room for business owners to exploit the podcast platform to promote their brand and increase thier relationship with their current and future customers.



Audio offers a level of convenience, reach and engagement that is unmatched by any other medium. Why do you think radio is still so popular?



However, your podcast content has to be engaging. You have to put the audience first. You can’t just say “buy from us because we are good”. That’s a commercial. You have to deliver much more than that. You have to give something away. Any thoughts of a sale must come after the relationship has been established.



The content of your podcast could a story about how you helped a customer; about how you came up with the idea of your widget, the lessons learned in its development, the failures, the problem solving, your successes. Honest stories that build credibility and trust.



Use podcasts to tell your story and the stories behind your services and products, as well as share industry news and information, along with your pick of future trends in your industry.



A podcast is less time consuming to make than a video, and can provide an easy way for you to include other people in the recording. They are cheap to distribute too.



There’s also a level of trust that’s built up by people listening to your voice, getting to know you, and getting a feel for your personality.



A podcast can help establish you as an expert, an authority within your industry. It will expand your reach to people you could never otherwise hope to meet or influence.



Too shy to put yourself out there? Don't like hearing your own voice? Well, dig deep, and embrace the medium.



Think you need expensive equipment? No, you can start by recording on your phone – speaking directly into its microphone, and doing any editing on the free audio app that came with your PC.



Produce one a week; build a following, and watch your brand grow.]]>469cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/user/steve_hart/which-microphone-to-buy_1


In this episode of Podcasting Made Easy I look at the many factors to consider; the recording environment, the budget, and whether you should use a condenser, dynamic, or USB microphone.



I say don't buy any microphone – use what you already have and do it anyway. But if you need to buy a microphone then my preference is dynamic.]]>https://www.stevehart.co.nz/?p=12719Sun, 26 Apr 2020 04:37:30 +0000Steve HartWe've all seen the heated debates online about which microphone to buy; but the truth is there is no correct answer. In this episode of Podcasting Made Easy I look at the many factors to consider; the recording environment, the budget, and whether...


In this episode of Podcasting Made Easy I look at the many factors to consider; the recording environment, the budget, and whether you should use a condenser, dynamic, or USB microphone.



I say don't buy any microphone – use what you already have and do it anyway. But if you need to buy a microphone then my preference is dynamic.]]>246cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/user/steve_hart/should-your-guests-sign-a-release-form_2


My answer may surprise some.]]>https://www.stevehart.co.nz/?p=12448Mon, 02 Mar 2020 02:31:00 +0000Steve HartYou see it at least once a week on podcast forums…Should I ask the person I am interviewing to sign a personal release form. My answer may surprise some.


My answer may surprise some.]]>442cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/user/steve_hart/make-a-splash-with-podcast-promotion_2


But oh no, there is more to it than that.



You need to promote each podcast to reach new listeners and increase your audience. To make an impact. So make sure to write an engaging promo about each episode, create a compelling graphic to post across social media, and ask your guest to share it too.



Find out more in this episode of Podcasting Made easy.]]>https://www.stevehart.co.nz/?p=12460Sun, 09 Feb 2020 02:38:00 +0000Steve HartIt’s too easy to knock out a podcast episode, post it up and then sit back rubbing your hands – job done. But oh no, there is more to it than that. You need to promote each podcast to reach new listeners and increase your audience. To make an...


But oh no, there is more to it than that.



You need to promote each podcast to reach new listeners and increase your audience. To make an impact. So make sure to write an engaging promo about each episode, create a compelling graphic to post across social media, and ask your guest to share it too.



Find out more in this episode of Podcasting Made easy.]]>272cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/user/steve_hart/easy-way-to-remove-your-ums-and-erms_1


So how do professional broadcasters and newsreaders speak without making these unwanted noises? Practice, practice, practice – and a heavy dollop of self discipline.



Sure, we can edit our podcasts to remove these noises; but it can get boring after a while and it is time consuming – so far as I know – there is not an app for that (yet).



The best way to solve this is to train yourself not to make those noises at all.]]>https://www.stevehart.co.nz/?p=12453Mon, 03 Feb 2020 02:37:31 +0000Steve HartWe all do it. We can talk all day to friends, colleagues and family without uttering a singled ‘um’ or ‘erm’. But sit in front of a microphone to record a podcast and they pour out. So how do professional broadcasters and newsreaders speak without...


So how do professional broadcasters and newsreaders speak without making these unwanted noises? Practice, practice, practice – and a heavy dollop of self discipline.



Sure, we can edit our podcasts to remove these noises; but it can get boring after a while and it is time consuming – so far as I know – there is not an app for that (yet).



The best way to solve this is to train yourself not to make those noises at all.]]>360cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/user/steve_hart/the-best-day-and-time-to-release-your-po_1work by the clock, and leave for home by the clock. We eat by the clock,
watch the clock, and when we retire we might be given a clock. (Have
you read Harlan Ellison’s Repent Harlequin, said the Ticktockman?)



So governed are we by the clock that it is no surprise that someone
writes to ask what time of day they should release their podcast to a
waiting world. Thankfully, there’s an easy answer. Publish it when it’s
ready – you have a global audience living in their own time zone.



The days of ‘appointment viewing’ (and listening) are long gone. On one side the family doesn’t have to gather at a certain time to watch a TV show (which some argue has upset traditional family time). On the other; play on demand means we can all consume what we want when we want.



Podcasts are the audio-world’s Netflix. You can stream or download them whenever you want.



So what’s the best time to release a podcast? There is no ideal time. Although there is. Friends in email marketing tell me they send out emails to members of their databases on either a Thursday or Friday at between 1 and 3pm. It’s the end of the week; people are starting to wind down and are looking for things to do at the weekend.



What are we to take from this? You can release your podcast when you like; but if the vast majority of your listeners live in your time zone then there is no harm in publishing on a Thursday or Friday afternoon.



In other news



I was among those who was surprised to read in The Guardian the words “Regulation” and “Podcasts” in the same sentence.



The introduction to Jack Seale’s feature on 27 November 2019 referred
to ‘Bedroom broadcasters’ as if recording in one’s bedroom made it a
lesser product than one recorded in an expensive studio owned by a
corporation. I really thought those days were behind us.



But in the penultimate paragraph of the feature he talked of regulation. This has to be called out quickly and firmly.



We need to be cautious and suspicious of such language. We need to
kick back on this at every turn. More regulation is not required. There
are more than enough laws already to covering libel, defamation,
contempt of court and copyright etc. More regulation is the last thing
that’s needed.



Do not take comments such as these lying down. By like Harlequin.]]>https://www.stevehart.co.nz/?p=12096Wed, 04 Dec 2019 01:28:59 +0000Steve HartMost of us are governed by the clock. We get up by the clock, get to work by the clock, and leave for home by the clock. We eat by the clock, watch the clock, and when we retire we might be given a clock. (Have you read Harlan Ellison’s Repent...work by the clock, and leave for home by the clock. We eat by the clock,
watch the clock, and when we retire we might be given a clock. (Have
you read Harlan Ellison’s Repent Harlequin, said the Ticktockman?)



So governed are we by the clock that it is no surprise that someone
writes to ask what time of day they should release their podcast to a
waiting world. Thankfully, there’s an easy answer. Publish it when it’s
ready – you have a global audience living in their own time zone.



The days of ‘appointment viewing’ (and listening) are long gone. On one side the family doesn’t have to gather at a certain time to watch a TV show (which some argue has upset traditional family time). On the other; play on demand means we can all consume what we want when we want.



Podcasts are the audio-world’s Netflix. You can stream or download them whenever you want.



So what’s the best time to release a podcast? There is no ideal time. Although there is. Friends in email marketing tell me they send out emails to members of their databases on either a Thursday or Friday at between 1 and 3pm. It’s the end of the week; people are starting to wind down and are looking for things to do at the weekend.



What are we to take from this? You can release your podcast when you like; but if the vast majority of your listeners live in your time zone then there is no harm in publishing on a Thursday or Friday afternoon.



In other news



I was among those who was surprised to read in The Guardian the words “Regulation” and “Podcasts” in the same sentence.



The introduction to Jack Seale’s feature on 27 November 2019 referred
to ‘Bedroom broadcasters’ as if recording in one’s bedroom made it a
lesser product than one recorded in an expensive studio owned by a
corporation. I really thought those days were behind us.



But in the penultimate paragraph of the feature he talked of regulation. This has to be called out quickly and firmly.



We need to be cautious and suspicious of such language. We need to
kick back on this at every turn. More regulation is not required. There
are more than enough laws already to covering libel, defamation,
contempt of court and copyright etc. More regulation is the last thing
that’s needed.



Do not take comments such as these lying down. By like Harlequin.]]>540cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/user/steve_hart/the-golden-trick-to-start-podcasting_1First it was the gear, then it was the space for a ‘studio’, and then
having the time to prepare and record it.



Okay, the time for procrastination is over. It’s time to start podcasting and you can only do that by actually recording one.



The great news is that you can do as many practice podcasts as you like and only start releasing them when you are ready.



When I started my career in radio I spent a year hanging around my local station, stealing time in the studio when I could, picking up tricks and tips from seasoned broadcasters until one night someone didn’t arrive for their show and I was ‘Johnny on the spot’.



But there is no way I would have been asked to do a show on my first
night at the station as a novice wannabe DJ. And the same might apply to
you.



So unless someone is knocking on your door asking you to do a podcast
then pace yourself, allow your confidence to grow, your on-air delivery
to mature, and start by starting. You’ll do fine and the rest will fall
into place as you develop your podcast rhythm, your style, your voice,
your podcast.



On your marks, get set, go!]]>https://www.stevehart.co.nz/?p=12058Tue, 26 Nov 2019 18:19:48 +0000Steve HartSo you want to start a podcast but there’s something stopping you. First it was the gear, then it was the space for a ‘studio’, and then having the time to prepare and record it. Okay, the time for procrastination is over. It’s time to start...First it was the gear, then it was the space for a ‘studio’, and then
having the time to prepare and record it.



Okay, the time for procrastination is over. It’s time to start podcasting and you can only do that by actually recording one.



The great news is that you can do as many practice podcasts as you like and only start releasing them when you are ready.



When I started my career in radio I spent a year hanging around my local station, stealing time in the studio when I could, picking up tricks and tips from seasoned broadcasters until one night someone didn’t arrive for their show and I was ‘Johnny on the spot’.



But there is no way I would have been asked to do a show on my first
night at the station as a novice wannabe DJ. And the same might apply to
you.



So unless someone is knocking on your door asking you to do a podcast
then pace yourself, allow your confidence to grow, your on-air delivery
to mature, and start by starting. You’ll do fine and the rest will fall
into place as you develop your podcast rhythm, your style, your voice,
your podcast.



On your marks, get set, go!]]>298cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/user/steve_hart/what-to-do-when-good-podcasts-go-bad_1


So, what to do? Yep, apps such as Pro Tools, Garage Band and Audition provide lots of tools, filters and options to help improve sound and remove unwanted noises.



But to use them you have to be careful; and even after hours / days of fiddling you might remove or reduce some of the unwanted noise, but at what cost? There is always a trade off…



Perhaps it is best to bite the bullet and just do the interview over. Start again and get it in the can.]]>https://www.stevehart.co.nz/?p=11419Thu, 17 Oct 2019 23:24:11 +0000Steve HartWe've all done it. Recorded a podcast interview only to discover the audio is really bad for one reason or another. So, what to do? Yep, apps such as Pro Tools, Garage Band and Audition provide lots of tools, filters and options to help improve...


So, what to do? Yep, apps such as Pro Tools, Garage Band and Audition provide lots of tools, filters and options to help improve sound and remove unwanted noises.



But to use them you have to be careful; and even after hours / days of fiddling you might remove or reduce some of the unwanted noise, but at what cost? There is always a trade off…



Perhaps it is best to bite the bullet and just do the interview over. Start again and get it in the can.]]>414cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/user/steve_hart/how-to-record-a-podcast-anywhere_1


The sun is shining, the birds are tweeting – let’s record a podcast in the garden. Just because we can.



No mixer, no expensive microphone, no room acoustics worries, no
fixing up afterwards. Just raw and real – a Tascam DR-40, a foam pop
filter and a passion to podcast.



The Tascam DR-40 digital recorder.



I recorded this using minimal gear, and in the back garden, to
illustrate that you do not need tons of gear to record a podcast; nor a
dedicated space. KISS – Keep It Super Simple.



The Tascam, or any similar digital recorder (and a pop filter), will do you just fine.



Got some background noise? No worries; include it in your podcast – give listeners an experience. Keep it natural and engaging.



Years ago, when working in professional radio I used to carry around a
reel-to-reel tape recorder! Just like the one pictured below.



The sun is shining, the birds are tweeting – let’s record a podcast in the garden. Just because we can.



No mixer, no expensive microphone, no software enhancement. Just me, a Tascam DR-40 and a foam pop filter.



I just wanted to illustrate that you do not need tons of gear to record your thoughts on an MP3.



For more free info about podcasting see Podcasting Made Easy]]>https://www.stevehart.co.nz/?p=11322Tue, 08 Oct 2019 21:56:38 +0000Steve HartThe sun is shining, the birds are tweeting – let’s record a podcast in the garden. Just because we can. The sun is shining, the birds are tweeting – let’s record a podcast in the garden. Just because we can. No mixer, no expensive microphone, no...


The sun is shining, the birds are tweeting – let’s record a podcast in the garden. Just because we can.



No mixer, no expensive microphone, no room acoustics worries, no
fixing up afterwards. Just raw and real – a Tascam DR-40, a foam pop
filter and a passion to podcast.



The Tascam DR-40 digital recorder.



I recorded this using minimal gear, and in the back garden, to
illustrate that you do not need tons of gear to record a podcast; nor a
dedicated space. KISS – Keep It Super Simple.



The Tascam, or any similar digital recorder (and a pop filter), will do you just fine.



Got some background noise? No worries; include it in your podcast – give listeners an experience. Keep it natural and engaging.



Years ago, when working in professional radio I used to carry around a
reel-to-reel tape recorder! Just like the one pictured below.



The sun is shining, the birds are tweeting – let’s record a podcast in the garden. Just because we can.



No mixer, no expensive microphone, no software enhancement. Just me, a Tascam DR-40 and a foam pop filter.



I just wanted to illustrate that you do not need tons of gear to record your thoughts on an MP3.



For more free info about podcasting see Podcasting Made Easy]]>374cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/user/steve_hart/where-to-find-guests-for-your-podcast_1


But if featuring guests on your podcast is something you want to do then that can be very interesting for your audience.



It’s quite common that people will make contact with you and ask to feature in your podcast, and that’s all fine – so long as what they want to talk about aligns with what you are doing. If not; then it is often better to let them know that there isn’t enough common ground…and let them down gently.



It is often better to do your own research and identify people who will add real value to your podcast and be of genuine interest to your listeners. You can start with other people’s podcasts to see who they are featuring in their shows, look for authors who may have released a new book that aligns with your show, write to trade bodies, search YouTube.



Perhaps there are some interesting speakers at a conference near where you live, or they might be visiting your place or work or a local school. See if you can rock up with a mic and portable recorder and get a podcast recorded.



But once you find them then you need to write including full details about your podcast and explain why you think they are a good fit for your show. Be prepared to let them know how many downloads you get if they ask.



Once they agree to take part then book them in by setting a time to record the interview and then start researching so you can ask interesting questions. 



Asking good questions is where the value is for your listeners; and it shows respect to your guest. It shows you have put real effort into the conversation and that you know what you are talking about. In fact; having done the research you will feel a lot more confident talking with them. If they have written a book then read the book before the interview.



Some guests may ask to see your questions before the interview so they can prepare ‘better answers’. I’m not in favour of this because when people get questions ahead of time they prepare stock answers and it leads to a lack of spontaneity. Avoid this at all costs. 



I have declined to interview people if they insist on that condition; most have then agreed to proceed anyway and it’s all turned out fine.



Should you pay guests? Absolutely not. No way. If a guest asks for payment then politely decline and move on. In 30 years of interviewing people for all manner of stories I have been asked to pay anyone and nor would I.



Once the podcast is published then send a link to your guest and ask if they would share it across their social media network. See EP10 for press release marketing.]]>https://www.stevehart.co.nz/?p=10828Sun, 18 Aug 2019 02:55:13 +0000Steve HartThere are plenty of podcasters who do well just sharing their expertise and knowledge via their podcast without having to interview someone else. But if featuring guests on your podcast is something you want to do then that can be very interesting...


But if featuring guests on your podcast is something you want to do then that can be very interesting for your audience.



It’s quite common that people will make contact with you and ask to feature in your podcast, and that’s all fine – so long as what they want to talk about aligns with what you are doing. If not; then it is often better to let them know that there isn’t enough common ground…and let them down gently.



It is often better to do your own research and identify people who will add real value to your podcast and be of genuine interest to your listeners. You can start with other people’s podcasts to see who they are featuring in their shows, look for authors who may have released a new book that aligns with your show, write to trade bodies, search YouTube.



Perhaps there are some interesting speakers at a conference near where you live, or they might be visiting your place or work or a local school. See if you can rock up with a mic and portable recorder and get a podcast recorded.



But once you find them then you need to write including full details about your podcast and explain why you think they are a good fit for your show. Be prepared to let them know how many downloads you get if they ask.



Once they agree to take part then book them in by setting a time to record the interview and then start researching so you can ask interesting questions. 



Asking good questions is where the value is for your listeners; and it shows respect to your guest. It shows you have put real effort into the conversation and that you know what you are talking about. In fact; having done the research you will feel a lot more confident talking with them. If they have written a book then read the book before the interview.



Some guests may ask to see your questions before the interview so they can prepare ‘better answers’. I’m not in favour of this because when people get questions ahead of time they prepare stock answers and it leads to a lack of spontaneity. Avoid this at all costs. 



I have declined to interview people if they insist on that condition; most have then agreed to proceed anyway and it’s all turned out fine.



Should you pay guests? Absolutely not. No way. If a guest asks for payment then politely decline and move on. In 30 years of interviewing people for all manner of stories I have been asked to pay anyone and nor would I.



Once the podcast is published then send a link to your guest and ask if they would share it across their social media network. See EP10 for press release marketing.]]>642cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/user/steve_hart/promote-your-podcast-with-a-press-releas_2


You may offer great content that’s delivered to broadcast standard, but if no one knows about it then you are wasting your time.



Sure, you’ll be on all the podcast distribution sites – along with everyone else – but still…how do people know to look for you?



Marketing is the key. But it has to be more than a mention on social media. You are absolutely wasting your time telling other podcasters about it (unless your’s is a podcast about podcasting).



Okay, let’s look at shownotes. They are hopefully written up and posted on your website for search engines to index should someone be looking for what you talk about – great.



Now, let’s grab those shownotes and do something more. Let’s write them up as a news story with a brilliantly interesting intro; engaging quotes from your guest and make it into a really interesting press release.



Get it down to about 300 words so it really is a snappy read. Remember, we are selling the sizzle, not the sausage (mmm sausages).



With your press release checked and ready to go send it to publications and websites that report on the things your guest talks about; ideally with a photo of you or your special guest. Include a link to your site and the podcast of course. Perhaps also include the podcast player embed code. And don’t forget trade bodies linked to the subject of your podcast.



Also send it to press release distribution sites. Some do charge for distribution, but there are some free ones too. Send it anywhere that might publish it (we all know the media is always crying out for content).



The truth is you need to put as much work into marketing as you do producing content; especially in the first year of podcasting while you get established. But solid and consistent promotion via press releases will pay of – particularly if you become known to editors looking for your type of content.]]>https://www.stevehart.co.nz/?p=10825Sun, 18 Aug 2019 02:47:18 +0000Steve HartI learned a long, long, time ago that having a great product doesn’t automatically translate into great sales or popularity. You may offer great content that’s delivered to broadcast standard, but if no one knows about it then you are wasting your...


You may offer great content that’s delivered to broadcast standard, but if no one knows about it then you are wasting your time.



Sure, you’ll be on all the podcast distribution sites – along with everyone else – but still…how do people know to look for you?



Marketing is the key. But it has to be more than a mention on social media. You are absolutely wasting your time telling other podcasters about it (unless your’s is a podcast about podcasting).



Okay, let’s look at shownotes. They are hopefully written up and posted on your website for search engines to index should someone be looking for what you talk about – great.



Now, let’s grab those shownotes and do something more. Let’s write them up as a news story with a brilliantly interesting intro; engaging quotes from your guest and make it into a really interesting press release.



Get it down to about 300 words so it really is a snappy read. Remember, we are selling the sizzle, not the sausage (mmm sausages).



With your press release checked and ready to go send it to publications and websites that report on the things your guest talks about; ideally with a photo of you or your special guest. Include a link to your site and the podcast of course. Perhaps also include the podcast player embed code. And don’t forget trade bodies linked to the subject of your podcast.



Also send it to press release distribution sites. Some do charge for distribution, but there are some free ones too. Send it anywhere that might publish it (we all know the media is always crying out for content).



The truth is you need to put as much work into marketing as you do producing content; especially in the first year of podcasting while you get established. But solid and consistent promotion via press releases will pay of – particularly if you become known to editors looking for your type of content.]]>387cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/user/steve_hart/market-your-podcast-like-a-bar-of-soap_1


Once a firm has a product made they need to sell it; and that involves lots of marketing and advertising to people who they think need that product.



It's no different to when people are giving away free samples; or free podcasts. They still need to be placed into the hands of consumers who want them or who could benefit from them.



In this edition of the Podcasting Made Easy podcast I explain how you can promote your podcast for free and hopefully do a little better than releasing your podcast and crossing your fingers.]]>https://www.stevehart.co.nz/?p=10730Sun, 04 Aug 2019 21:21:26 +0000Steve HartWhen a company makes a box of soap to sell their job doesn't end once the boxes are packed up and placed in the warehouse. That's when the real work of advertising and marketing starts. Once a firm has a product made they need to sell it; and that...


Once a firm has a product made they need to sell it; and that involves lots of marketing and advertising to people who they think need that product.



It's no different to when people are giving away free samples; or free podcasts. They still need to be placed into the hands of consumers who want them or who could benefit from them.



In this edition of the Podcasting Made Easy podcast I explain how you can promote your podcast for free and hopefully do a little better than releasing your podcast and crossing your fingers.]]>547cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/user/steve_hart/best-way-to-record-interviews-on-locatio_1nothing more exciting than actually getting out to events such as trade
shows to interview people.



They can be people such as experts in their field who are visiting
your town, people you might not normally get to meet. Or maybe you want
to do a vox pop asking random people in the street their opinion about
something.



Whatever the reason, how do you free yourself up from your studio to go do this?



I can tell you that it is easier than when I first started in radio when I would have to lug a reel to reel tape machine to interviews. Remember the Uher anyone?



The Uher 4000 Reporters ‘portable' reel to reel tape machine.



Today you can use your phone or a digital recorder; but there are some tips and tricks you’ll need to know to get great results. Listen to my podcast for advice on recording interviews on location.



Tascam digital recorder.]]>https://www.stevehart.co.nz/?p=10665Thu, 01 Aug 2019 00:12:03 +0000Steve HartWhile it’s all very nice sitting at home making podcasts, there’s nothing more exciting than actually getting out to events such as trade shows to interview people. They can be people such as experts in their field who are visiting your town,...nothing more exciting than actually getting out to events such as trade
shows to interview people.



They can be people such as experts in their field who are visiting
your town, people you might not normally get to meet. Or maybe you want
to do a vox pop asking random people in the street their opinion about
something.



Whatever the reason, how do you free yourself up from your studio to go do this?



I can tell you that it is easier than when I first started in radio when I would have to lug a reel to reel tape machine to interviews. Remember the Uher anyone?



The Uher 4000 Reporters ‘portable' reel to reel tape machine.



Today you can use your phone or a digital recorder; but there are some tips and tricks you’ll need to know to get great results. Listen to my podcast for advice on recording interviews on location.



Tascam digital recorder.]]>500cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/user/steve_hart/how-long-should-your-podcast-be_2 part to my training as a journalist to report news in as few words as
possible.



It was a hard lesson when I first started out as my editor would tell
me to cut my 1500 masterpeice to 450 words. Cut, cut, cut, cut!



There is no such demand from anyone when it comes to podcasting; people do ramble on and on for hours at a time in some cases. But frankly, I don’t have the time to listen to them all the way through and I wonder if you do too!



So when I am asked “how long should my podcast be?” my answer is that
there is no rule, how long is a piece of string? But ultimately; make
it as short as possible.]]>https://www.stevehart.co.nz/?p=10548Sun, 21 Jul 2019 03:31:15 +0000Steve HartI have always been in favour of brevity. I guess it is due in part to my training as a journalist to report news in as few words as possible. It was a hard lesson when I first started out as my editor would tell me to cut my 1500 masterpeice to... part to my training as a journalist to report news in as few words as
possible.



It was a hard lesson when I first started out as my editor would tell
me to cut my 1500 masterpeice to 450 words. Cut, cut, cut, cut!



There is no such demand from anyone when it comes to podcasting; people do ramble on and on for hours at a time in some cases. But frankly, I don’t have the time to listen to them all the way through and I wonder if you do too!



So when I am asked “how long should my podcast be?” my answer is that
there is no rule, how long is a piece of string? But ultimately; make
it as short as possible.]]>322cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/user/steve_hart/why-your-podcast-should-be-mono_1


* Stereo MP3 files will be twice the size of a mono version. This is because only half the data is needed to reproduce a mono recording than a stereo one.* It's also worth noting that because each of us have only one mouth that when we speak it is in mono.* When you release a podcast you want the MP3 file to be as small as possible for lots of reasons.* You can (roughly) upload twice as many mono MP3s than corresponding stereo ones to your hosting plan (saving space may save you money).* Not everyone has fast and unlimited internet services; so small files mean less data use for your listeners and faster downloads.* Keeping your MP3 file sizes as small as possible is not just about them being mono. Look at the bit rate (KBPS) too. While 128kbps is the lowest bit rate you can use to keep music sounding anywhere near listenable; with a mono recording of a voice you can go down to 96kbps or even 80kbps.* Experiment: Create a new mono 44.1khz file in your recording app, record you voice and export at 80kbps and 96kbps. Play them back and listen for any quality issues.* Don't use music though, music played back at below 128k will sound rotten.* If you have already uploaded your podcasts in stereo at a higher bitrate then – so long as you keep the file names exactly the same – you can replace them with versions of a smaller file size.]]>https://www.stevehart.co.nz/?p=10544Sun, 21 Jul 2019 03:28:31 +0000Steve HartIf you are blessed with two fully working ears then everything you hear is stereo. By default you will likely record stuff in stereo. In this episode of Podcasting Made Easy I explain why it's natural to want to produce podcasts in stereo. But there...


* Stereo MP3 files will be twice the size of a mono version. This is because only half the data is needed to reproduce a mono recording than a stereo one.* It's also worth noting that because each of us have only one mouth that when we speak it is in mono.* When you release a podcast you want the MP3 file to be as small as possible for lots of reasons.* You can (roughly) upload twice as many mono MP3s than corresponding stereo ones to your hosting plan (saving space may save you money).* Not everyone has fast and unlimited internet services; so small files mean less data use for your listeners and faster downloads.* Keeping your MP3 file sizes as small as possible is not just about them being mono. Look at the bit rate (KBPS) too. While 128kbps is the lowest bit rate you can use to keep music sounding anywhere near listenable; with a mono recording of a voice you can go down to 96kbps or even 80kbps.* Experiment: Create a new mono 44.1khz file in your recording app, record you voice and export at 80kbps and 96kbps. Play them back and listen for any quality issues.* Don't use music though, music played back at below 128k will sound rotten.* If you have already uploaded your podcasts in stereo at a higher bitrate then – so long as you keep the file names exactly the same – you can replace them with versions of a smaller file size.]]>354cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/user/steve_hart/how-to-design-your-podcast-logo_1


In this episode of Podcasting Made Easy I say that restraint is a key requirement as it is ideal to keep the logo simple and restrict yourself to no more than 2 colours plus black or white. Ideally…use one colour.



If you already have a company logo then your job is basically done; you just need to use the existing colours, logo and fonts to create your podcast artwork.



If you don't have this then you have a free hand to do what you want. But keep it simple.



Remember also that colours do have meaning. Racing green or navy blue are used by banks and more conservative organizations. Light blue is fresh, water. Orange is used by PayPal because the colour is trusted.



Some fonts have curly ends (serif) and others are square or rounded (san serif). Choose a font that will remain clear to read at any size – from very teeny-weeny to as big as Ben-Hur.



Your artwork will need to work at different sizes and shapes for each of the podcast libraries (Apple, Stitcher, Spreaker…) And you may want to adopt it for clothing, car stickers, trade signage, or a business card.



And of course, your logo needs to be reflected in the colours used on your website to keep everything married together – coherent, consistent.



So check out the podcast libraries, take a gander at the artwork other people use and while you can't copy it wholesale you may get some good ideas. And do a search for the meaning of coloursso you choose the best ones that reflect the genre of your podcast.



No matter what you do, always ask why? Why these words, colours, fonts, shape.]]>https://www.stevehart.co.nz/?p=10538Sun, 21 Jul 2019 03:24:47 +0000Steve HartThere is a lot to consider when it comes to designing your podcast artwork. In this episode of Podcasting Made Easy I say that restraint is a key requirement as it is ideal to keep the logo simple and restrict yourself to no more than 2 colours...


In this episode of Podcasting Made Easy I say that restraint is a key requirement as it is ideal to keep the logo simple and restrict yourself to no more than 2 colours plus black or white. Ideally…use one colour.



If you already have a company logo then your job is basically done; you just need to use the existing colours, logo and fonts to create your podcast artwork.



If you don't have this then you have a free hand to do what you want. But keep it simple.



Remember also that colours do have meaning. Racing green or navy blue are used by banks and more conservative organizations. Light blue is fresh, water. Orange is used by PayPal because the colour is trusted.



Some fonts have curly ends (serif) and others are square or rounded (san serif). Choose a font that will remain clear to read at any size – from very teeny-weeny to as big as Ben-Hur.



Your artwork will need to work at different sizes and shapes for each of the podcast libraries (Apple, Stitcher, Spreaker…) And you may want to adopt it for clothing, car stickers, trade signage, or a business card.



And of course, your logo needs to be reflected in the colours used on your website to keep everything married together – coherent, consistent.



So check out the podcast libraries, take a gander at the artwork other people use and while you can't copy it wholesale you may get some good ideas. And do a search for the meaning of coloursso you choose the best ones that reflect the genre of your podcast.



No matter what you do, always ask why? Why these words, colours, fonts, shape.]]>477cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/user/steve_hart/you-can-podcast-for-free_2


If you have a way to record a podcast then you know that once that is done and ready to be released you will likely have to pay someone to host it so it can be heard around the world. But hold on, In this episode of Podcasting Made Easy I show that there are free ways to do this.



If you are just dipping your toe in the water to see if podcasting is for you – because plenty of podcasts do not get past episode 7 – then you can get it out there for free.



And if you have a website then even better; you can embed an audio player of your podcast there too.



Companies such as:SoundCloudMixcloudSpreakerYouTube give you ways to upload your shows for free. With YouTube of course you will need to upload a video, but there are ways to use a static image for this.



SoundCloud



SoundCloud will give you a podcast RSS feed that you can submit to Apple Podcasts (used to be known as iTunes) and other distributors. But the company does place limits on a free account.



And should you want to move your podcasts to dedicate podcast services then that will involve letting everyone know you have a new RSS podcast feed (that can sometimes lead to real tears). You'll need to set up a 301 redirect at SoundCloud or start over by uploading all your existing podcasts to the new hosting firm.



Spreaker



Spreaker offers a free account of 5 hours' storage. Do a 15 minute podcast once a week and that's 20 weeks covered – by which time you will know if podcasting is for you. It also offers ways to share your shows across major platforms such as iHeart, Spotify, and Stitcher etc.



Mixcloud



Mixcloud is free, has no limits and covers your royalties if you want to play commercial music (it's the home of thousands of music radio shows hosted by some very talented people 🙂 and dance mixes. You can send shows there via an RSS feed or upload direct.



YouTube



YouTube is also used by podcasters. Search for "convert MP3 to video YouTube" and you'll find firms offering to convert your audio file to a video with a static image. Or you could talk to camera and podcast that way – video to YouTube, audio to everywhere else.



All of the above won't cost you a dime and you can share your show links across social media to boost listener numbers.]]>https://www.stevehart.co.nz/?p=10532Sun, 21 Jul 2019 03:19:01 +0000Steve HartWhen you see that something is being offered for free then you pretty well know there will be a catch somewhere. But not today. If you have a way to record a podcast then you know that once that is done and ready to be released you will likely have...


If you have a way to record a podcast then you know that once that is done and ready to be released you will likely have to pay someone to host it so it can be heard around the world. But hold on, In this episode of Podcasting Made Easy I show that there are free ways to do this.



If you are just dipping your toe in the water to see if podcasting is for you – because plenty of podcasts do not get past episode 7 – then you can get it out there for free.



And if you have a website then even better; you can embed an audio player of your podcast there too.



Companies such as:SoundCloudMixcloudSpreakerYouTube give you ways to upload your shows for free. With YouTube of course you will need to upload a video, but there are ways to use a static image for this.



SoundCloud



SoundCloud will give you a podcast RSS feed that you can submit to Apple Podcasts (used to be known as iTunes) and other distributors. But the company does place limits on a free account.



And should you want to move your podcasts to dedicate podcast services then that will involve letting everyone know you have a new RSS podcast feed (that can sometimes lead to real tears). You'll need to set up a 301 redirect at SoundCloud or start over by uploading all your existing podcasts to the new hosting firm.



Spreaker



Spreaker offers a free account of 5 hours' storage. Do a 15 minute podcast once a week and that's 20 weeks covered – by which time you will know if podcasting is for you. It also offers ways to share your shows across major platforms such as iHeart, Spotify, and Stitcher etc.



Mixcloud



Mixcloud is free, has no limits and covers your royalties if you want to play commercial music (it's the home of thousands of music radio shows hosted by some very talented people 🙂 and dance mixes. You can send shows there via an RSS feed or upload direct.



YouTube



YouTube is also used by podcasters. Search for "convert MP3 to video YouTube" and you'll find firms offering to convert your audio file to a video with a static image. Or you could talk to camera and podcast that way – video to YouTube, audio to everywhere else.



All of the above won't cost you a dime and you can share your show links across social media to boost listener numbers.]]>405cleanfull