8 Tips On How To Start A Successful Podcast In Nigeria

Do you have a passion for talking and a cool voice? Then it may be time to start a podcast.

Podcasting and radio are similar in a lot of ways, but podcasting leverages newer technology.

A podcast is a digital audio file made available on the Internet for downloading to a computer or mobile device, typically available as a series, new installments of which can be received by subscribers automatically.

The benefits of podcasting cannot be overemphasized. It is easier to consume, can reach a wider audience, especially those who don’t like to read, and can be monetized(some people are making six figures every month from podcasting). Is that so cool?

It’s important to keep in mind that podcasts take a lot of effort so before you rush into things, don’t just assume they are easy to produce because they’re mostly audio, like everything, it takes consistency.

Here are things to know before starting a podcast.

1. Carve a niche

Just like with blogging, you need to find a niche for your podcast to fill.

So firstly, you need to know why you are starting a podcast. Are you a freelancer?  A business? If so, you might have identified podcasting as a great way to build authority, and provide your customers and target audience with valuable and entertaining content.

Or are you looking at podcasting from a hobbyist perspective? This might mean you’ll be creating a show in your spare time. And the subject will be something that you’re passionate about.

But before you choose a niche, consider that podcast listeners typically look to podcasts for expert advice.

Unlike blogging, where you can try to present a unique perspective as a beginner to a topic, most people motivated enough to seek out a podcast want expert advice.

2. Know Your Audience

When it comes to starting a podcast, unless you know exactly who you’re making your show for, and why you’re doing it, you’ve got no chance of growing an audience.

Take your time, observe what kind of people you want your audience to be, if you already have an audience built around something other than your podcast, then it’s a good opportunity for laying the foundations of the show’s fanbase.

3. Pick A Name For Your Podcast

Ideally, your audience should know what your podcast is about just by its name.

Although it is not 100% necessary since most podcast platforms include a short description, however, people don’t read descriptions, so better safe than sorry.

You want a name that is specific and clear, yet unique enough to catch the attention of your audience.

Consistency also helps, so if you already have a brand or a recognizable name, consider using that in your podcast.

4. Choose A Topic For Your Podcast

The best way is to start with a topic you are passionate about, a topic you’re obsessed with and good at.

The key to choosing a topic for your podcast is to search for that magical zone where your obsessions align with your audience’s interests.

So before committing to a topic, do extensive research, and look for similar podcasts to see how many followers and reviews they have.

This helps you in being comfortable in your niche.

Also read, These Steps Will Guide You On How To Become A Successful Event Planner In Nigeria

5. Equipment You Need

When starting a podcast, there is essential equipment needed like a microphone, audio editing apps, USB, and headphones.

Audio is everything when it comes to podcasting, so if you want to go all-out, get yourself a good microphone.

If you want to start on a budget, get a USB microphone. If you’re planning on podcasting for the long term, invest in a good analog microphone.

It mainly comes down to your budget and goals with your podcast. It’s fine to start small and upgrade later.

6. Create An Artwork For Your Podcast

One of the first things people see about your podcast even before reading the description is the cover art, So create an image that grabs their attention

Your image should communicate the subject of your podcast and hint at your personality. It reinforces your brand, so if you already have a certain look on your site, try to keep it consistent. If you can afford it, hire an experienced professional artist with experience working with podcasts.

6. Pick A Podcast hosting

This is simply a place to store and distribute your podcast’s audio recordings.

When it comes to getting your podcast out there for everyone to hear, you’ll need a podcast hosting account, also called a media host.

Podcast hosting services are built on media servers that are designed to store large media files (your episodes) and support the high bandwidth needed for listeners to download or stream episodes.

Although you might want to consider things you may also want to consider include price, flexibility, dependability, RSS feed support, site builder, and Website integration.

7. Editing Your Podcast Episodes

Editing audio is a lot like editing video, but a bit simpler.

Still, all audio editing software has a learning curve, and you’ll need to commit time to learn how to use it. For editing, Audacity is a fantastic audio recording/editing software for beginners.

If you want to avoid this, you can use a post-production service like Auphonic. They will take care of volume normalization, hum reduction, and other editing tasks for a reasonably low price.

8. Publish your episode

To publish your episode, upload it to your host provider. This is just a simple file upload, and your host should give you instructions when you sign up.

Now it’s time to try and get listeners. Start by sharing with friends on social media.

Congratulations! You have now recorded, uploaded, and shared your first podcast.