As you may already know, I host the lifestyle podcast Megan Till Midnight. I originally created it in January 2020, but the podcast has rebranded and grown a lot since then. Through my experience hosting and producing Megan Till Midnight, I have learned so much about the world of podcasting. Honestly, I am still learning more and more from each new episode I create.

Every so often, I receive dm’s from prospective podcasters who have many of the same questions I had in the beginning. There really is a lot to navigate when it comes to the equipment needed, podcast hosting, and branding.

To share my advice beyond the dm’s, I decided to compile some of my *most* frequently asked questions on here. This is by no means a complete guide; I could literally go on for pages. But, I believe this Q&A will provide you with some useful information and insight. If you ever wanted to start a podcast, here’s your sign to do it!

Q: What kind of mic should I use? Do I need one?

A: I would recommend investing in a mic if you are committed to starting your own podcast. But, I understand a mic isn’t always in the budget. I know many people that have started podcasting from their phones or laptops. If you have something to say and a want to create, don’t let resources stop you.

Personally, I decided to save up and get a Blue Yeti. I have used it for every Megan Till Midnight episode, and I love it. If you are in the market for a mic, definitely check it out. I got mine from Target, but many other retailers sell Blue products too.

Q: How do I record my podcast?

A: There are a few different programs you can use. If you are recording on a MacBook, you can use GarageBand. It’s free and pretty easy to use. If you are willing to pay, I would recommend using Adobe Audition. There are more features and it can enhance the sound of your audio.

Q: Should I edit my podcast?

A: The first podcast I ever did was unedited. My podcast now is edited. I can see the pros and cons of each. It really is up to you. Here are some things to consider: 1) what is your show’s brand and 2) how do you want your audience to experience the show.

Q: Where and how can I upload my podcast?

A: Anchor is where I host my podcast. You can create an account with Anchor (for free) to start your podcast. Then you can upload your audio to create and publish episodes. Anchor will automatically distribute your show to places like Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

There are some paid hosting/distribution services out there too. I do not have any personal experience with them, but I remember checking out sites like Podbean and Buzzsprout in the past. Based on my personal research, Anchor turned out to be the best fit for me. It’s what I would recommend.

Q: Where can I get intro songs/show music?

A: If you decide to host your podcast with Anchor, you get access to a library of various tunes and sound effects to choose from (for free!).

Another option is getting permission from artists you like to use their beats or songs. I’ve heard of podcasters collaborating with musicians on SoundCloud to get show tunes. In these situations, make sure to hold on to written consent and give the artist credit in your show notes. You can always purchase custom beats too!

Q: Should I have guests on my podcast? How do I “book” them?

A: “Should you” depends on what you want your podcast’s format to be. Do you want to host alone? Do you want to conduct interviews? Do you want to have a mix of both?

To get guests on the podcast, I typically reach out to people via email or dm. The worst someone can say is “no”, so why not give it a shot? I have also had prospective guests dm me. Some guests even end up on the podcast because of word-of-mouth. There are lots of different ways you can get in contact with guests; stay open to networking!

Q: How can I record remote interviews?

A: Zoom is my go-to for remote interviews, but I have also used Google Hangouts before.

If you pay for Zoom, you can schedule hour long calls and have Zoom record the audio for you. Then you can take the audio file and drop it into the program you edit with.

If you use a free service, like Google Hangouts, you can have GarageBand or Adobe Audition recording in the background of your call.

Q: How can I make graphics/cover art?

A: Canva is great to create anything and everything that you need for your podcast. They have so many different templates, texts, and images that you can use to make your own graphics/cover art for free.

However, you can go the paid route. There are quite a few graphic designers on Instagram that take commissions. I would recommend checking out @sketched.by.sophia. She did the drawing below for me, and she has also created cover art for other podcast hosts.

Q: Should I create an Instagram page for my podcast?

A: I would encourage you to! It’s like a mood board for your brand. Also, using Instagram is a great way to gain exposure for your podcast and network. I have had so many discussions with potential guests, other podcast hosts, and listeners on the platform. I feel like without my Megan Till Midnight Instagram, it would’ve been harder to build a community around the show.

Anymore Q’s?

If there is anything else you would like to know, feel free to comment or message me on Instagram. I’m happy to continue the convo! Who knows, your question might even be featured on an upcoming Q&A blog.