how to start a podcast (for dummies)
Starting a podcast is easy. But creating a great podcast, one that delivers real value, improves listeners' lives, and stands out in a sea of content? That’s the challenge. In this guide, I’ll show you how to start your podcast or transform it into something truly unique. And if you stay consistent, you’ll eventually find yourself making money or gaining more value than you ever imagined.
As an example, let me introduce you to Gomztalkz, our Spotify Business Top Charts podcast.
What is Gomztalkz?
Gomztalkz is a podcast where we sit down with professionals from various industries, ranging from the World’s Best Male Ballet Dancer to professors at Harvard and MIT. We dive deep into their journeys: the sleepless nights, the moments of doubt, and their relentless pursuit of success. Through their stories, we aim to inspire listeners, showing them that no matter how tough the road gets, there’s always a way to overcome challenges and reach your dreams.
Step 1: Get Over the Fear
Everyone loves to talk, but not everyone loves the idea of speaking in front of a camera or microphone. Here’s the truth: in two days, most people will forget what you said, unless you leave them with something valuable or memorable. Once you let go of your shyness, focus on what matters: delivering content that’s worth your audience’s time.
And here’s the best part: you already have all the tools you need to start. Take your phone and start recording. You don’t need a professional camera or a fancy microphone. Don’t make excuses that you’re missing the best assets or equipment. What matters is starting, not perfection.
You can talk about anything you’re passionate about. Whether it’s a niche topic or something more general, always make sure your listeners walk away with something valuable. And remember: IT DOESN’T HAVE TO BE PERFECT AT THE BEGINNING. You just have to start.
Step 2: Record and Publish
Your first step is to record an episode. Don’t worry if it’s bad—everyone’s first attempt is. Once you’ve recorded, head over to Spotify for Podcasters. Here’s what you’ll do:
Create an account.
Set up your podcast profile.
Design your branding (cover art, title, description).
Upload your episode.
Listen to your own episode critically. Note your flaws and areas for improvement, then move on to the next one. The process of uploading and creating new episodes will naturally help you grow your voice, style, and confidence will evolve over time.
Step 3: Use Your Passion to Fuel Growth
When I started Gomztalkz, I was 18 years old. I wanted to inspire people, but I knew my personal story wasn’t strong enough. So, I reached out to professionals I admired in various industries. To my surprise, the first person I contacted, Mauricio Pedroza (ESPN Sports Analyst and Emmy nominee), said yes.
We recorded an episode about his journey as a sports journalist, and I used his story to inspire others. In that moment, I realized that I didn’t need to be the expert (Through time you will have to invest more time preparing and knowing about the topics your guests will talk about) I could be the bridge, sharing others’ stories to bring value to my audience.
Step 4: Pick a Niche (But Don’t Limit Yourself)
Let’s say you’re passionate about astronauts. A podcast about space exploration would be niche and fascinating, and who knows? One day, you might find yourself at NASA, interviewing someone like Michael Fincke.
Or imagine you’re passionate about Formula 1. Your podcast could lead to recording episodes with icons like Sergio Pérez, Lewis Hamilton, or Max Verstappen. You might find yourself invited to races, hosting episodes with former drivers or Grand Prix champions. The sky is truly the limit, you just have to start.
The key is to begin with what excites you. Passion drives quality, and quality attracts opportunities. Over time, your niche can grow into something far bigger than you ever imagined.
Final Advice: Start and Evolve
The best advice I can give you is to just start. Don’t worry about perfection, it’s part of the process. Ask questions. Learn from Google, ChatGPT, or mentors in the industry. Every person you admire started as a rookie, fumbling through the early stages. Persistence and consistency are what turn beginners into experts.
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out. Don’t be shy, trust me. Starting is the hardest part, but it’s also the most rewarding.
Big Hug, Gomz
