If your business is ready to start using podcasts in its marketing arsenal, there are a wide range of resources and services to make your broadcasts professional and compelling. Perhaps the best place to begin is to listen to other podcasts. Go to iTunes, Podcast Alley or other directories and tune in to a few to see how they are done and to get ideas for your own. Then, once you’ve mapped out your business’ podcast strategy, take advantage of some of these resources for additional insights and tools.
To learn more about how to podcast, try these sites:
Online audio broadcasts probably wouldn’t be known as podcasts had it not been for Apple’s support of the format and the ability for listeners to receive them via Apple’s iTunes software. This site provides solid background about podcasting, and also has audio and video tutorials about how to create podcasts.
As the name suggests, this is a news and resource site related to all things podcast. In addition to a podcast directory and podcasting news feed, the site also features tutorials, reviews of podcasting software, and a forum where you can interact with fellow podcasters.
Another general podcast resource site, Podcasting Tools, takes more of a step-by-step approach on how to podcast. Start off with their clear definition of “what is podcasting?” and work your way through articles related to how to podcast, what podcast software to use, and other podcast resources.
The first step to developing a podcast is to create your audio file. The good news is that can be as simple as using a digital recorder, talking on the phone, or speaking into a microphone on your PC. Here are some options:
Audacity is one of the most commonly used recording software programs, which may be because it is free and is a solid performer. If you’re somewhat technically inclined, this open-source program is worth checking out.
Hipcast lets you record high-quality audio through your Web browser with no additional software needed. These files can then be easily published as podcasts. You can also make recordings over the phone, or upload other audio files you want to publish to your site. The service starts at around $5/month.
These two sites are basically do-it-yourself talk radio show solutions. You schedule a time slot, you and your guests call in, and the show is recorded automatically for future podcast distribution. Both are free for their basic services.
Once your podcast is recorded, you need to attach it to an RSS feed, distribute it and promote it. These sites can help:
For many podcasters, Feedburner is an essential tool. This free service (now part of Google) lets you optimize your podcast so the content is properly formatted for major directories and subscribers. It also helps you publicize your podcast (you can provide keywords so it is picked up when people search on places like iTunes) and gives you tools to analyze your traffic so you know how many subscribers you have, where they’re coming from, and what they’re downloading.
Outside of iTunes, these are some of the most popular podcast directories. Review these sites to find out more about how to submit your podcast so that listeners can find your show.