If you're more determined than ever and have already typed “how to start a podcast” into Google, then this article is exactly what you need. We’ll walk you through the basics of podcasting, where you become the host — even if you don’t have a studio, a voiceover background, or experience. But you do have the desire and this article. And honestly, that’s already half the battle.
Let’s break it all down: from topic to monetization. Simple and clear, with real benefits and a few honest life tips.
What is a podcast and why does it matter
A podcast is one of the most popular content formats today. People are tired of clips and endless reels — they just want to sit down, put on headphones, and listen. A podcast is like Netflix for your ears. And it’s easier to start than a YouTube channel — though the two don’t exclude each other.
Who podcasting is for
If you're:
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an expert with something to say;
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a freelancer wanting to share case studies;
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a fan of true crime, astrology, or obscure music genres;
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or just looking for a way to talk to the world —
By the way, business podcasts are no longer a novelty — they're the norm. If you have a brand or a project, it’s time to think about your own show. And yes, you can buy digital goods for it on Hstock — from accounts to tools for any purpose.
How to start a podcast from scratch
Choosing a topic and niche
The main rule — don’t try to please everyone. Pick something that sparks your passion. Better narrow and sincere than broad and bland. Think “80s Japanese animation” instead of “movies in general,” or “freelance behind-the-scenes stories.”
No ideas? Try one of these hot topics:
Defining your target audience
Ask yourself: who’s going to listen? A podcast isn’t a concert in the park — it has to land in the right ears.
Think about where your audience hangs out: Telegram, Spotify, Reddit, maybe RSS feeds?
Gather podcast ideas that could work. And don’t forget to check out Hstock — you’ll find tools and services to help your podcast grow faster.
Podcast equipment and software
Choosing a podcast microphone
Many people make the mistake of buying an expensive mic, then recording in the kitchen next to the fridge. Wrong move. The environment matters more than price.
What kind of mic should you get? A USB mic with cardioid direction is a good start — it picks up sound from the front. Rode NT-USB and Samson Q2U are solid. But you can also record with a budget lav mic or even your phone. You can fix the sound later using AI or smart editing tools.
Other podcast gear
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Headphones (no torn earpads — seriously!)
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Pop filter (optional unless you sing)
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Portable recorder (for street interviews)
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Boom arm (mic mount matters more than it seems)
Your setup depends on your format. For outdoor chats, use wireless lavs with wind protection. For indoor sit-downs with a camera — think lighting and comfort.
Audio editors overview
Podcast editing software = any audio editor. My favorites:
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Audacity (free and angry)
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Descript (edit like Word)
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Adobe Audition (if you’re fancy or subscribed)
You can clean audio in dozens of ways — even in video editors like CapCut or Sony Vegas.
Recording your first podcast
Where and how to record: home or studio
Sure, studios are ideal, but let’s be honest — you’re not Joe Rogan. Record at home. The key is quiet. Ask family to pause vacuuming, turn off notifications, and if needed — hide under a blanket.
With a few tricks, your room can be a studio. No need to foam the walls. Instead, move around and find a spot with the least echo — ideally a space with lots of furniture.
Low-cost home podcast setup tip
Take a mic and laptop, set up in a corner between your couch and wall. Blanket behind you, tea at hand. Boom — your cozy studio.
Avoiding common recording mistakes
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Do test recordings
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Drink water
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Use a script or outline
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Don’t panic if you mess up — it’s not live
Editing and finishing your podcast
- Editing tips: listen back, cut silences, ums, coughs. Add effects if they fit. The audio should be clean, not lifeless.
- Intro and music: Your intro sets the mood like morning coffee. Use original music and smooth transitions. Don’t blast the volume.
- Tech specs: Format MP3, 128–192 kbps. Normalize volume. Test on phones and headphones. If it sounds good — upload!
Publishing and distribution
Top podcast platforms:
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Spotify
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Apple Podcasts
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Yandex Music
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Castbox
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Anchor
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Podbean
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SoundCloud
You can also post to video platforms.
How to connect your RSS feed
An RSS feed is like a site’s update stream, letting platforms auto-fetch new episodes.
Anchor and Podbean generate it for you. Just copy the link and share it everywhere you want to appear. RSS is your golden ticket to the podcasting world.
Finding your audience
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TikTok (yes, even there)
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Reddit, Telegram channels
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Directories and niche platforms
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Ask influencers to share
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Run a giveaway — like an Hstock gift card
Promoting your podcast on social media
Social media promotion isn’t “new episode, listen now.” Use clips, memes, quotes, stories with reactions. Add personality! To grow, you’ll need all your tools — and Hstock has plenty of content-boosting products and services.
Influencers work great — offer barter or do an exclusive episode together.
Podcast SEO
Use keywords in descriptions. Make episode titles catchy. Clearer themes = more search hits. Spread your content wide — the bigger the net, the bigger the catch. Tools like AI, Google Keyword Planner, and SpyWords can help.
How to monetize your podcast
Monetization options:
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Donations (Patreon, Boosty)
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Bonus content subscriptions
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Affiliate marketing (recommend a product, earn a cut)
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Product placement
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Sponsorships
Add sponsor blocks or dedicate whole episodes. Just make sure it fits.
Paid subscriptions and donations
Apple and Spotify let you charge for exclusive content. You can also sell merch or premium extras.
Beginner podcaster mistakes
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Tech fails: unchecked mics, noise, chaotic editing
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Poor promo: don’t post without a plan; respond to feedback
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Content flops: a podcast “about nothing” frustrates listeners. Delivery > topic. People will listen to potatoes — if it’s fun.
Conclusion: Why start a podcast
It’s a way to reach your audience, share your voice (or just vibe), and build a media brand. Starting a podcast is simpler than it seems. It’s a great way to launch something of your own from home. And anything you lack — mic, music, host, logo — can be found on Hstock.
In short: if you want to — just do it.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does it cost to start a podcast from scratch?
Anywhere from zero to infinity. You can start with just a headset and Audacity, or invest in a full studio setup. But yes, launching a podcast from scratch is totally possible without going into debt. - Where is the best place to publish a podcast: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or somewhere else?
Everywhere. The broader the reach, the higher the listenership. But ideally, analyze your target audience before choosing platforms. - How do you find your first podcast audience?
Start with your friends, of course. Your guests can help too, or a small promo post. Share your idea with the world — maybe someone’s been waiting to hear it. - What are the most common beginner mistakes when starting out?
Technical issues, a dull voice, no clear topic, and lack of content distribution. And above all — fear of getting started.
