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How to Start a Free Podcast in 2021 (Step-by-Step Guide)

How to Start a Free Podcast in 2021

Plan, record, edit, host, and publish your show with a $0 budget—plus templates, gear tips, and a launch checklist.

How to start a podcast for free in 2021
Yes—you can launch a quality podcast for free with smart tooling and a repeatable workflow.
Key takeaways
  • Idea → format → name: Nail a specific audience and promise; keep a simple format you can sustain weekly.
  • Free toolstack works: Record on phone/USB mic, edit in free software, host on a free plan with RSS distribution.
  • Consistency wins: Batch two to three episodes before launch and publish on the same day/time each week.

1) Plan Your Show

ElementDecideTip
Niche & promiseWho is this for? What outcome do they get?“For crypto newbies: a 15-min weekly explainer.”
FormatSolo • Interview • News roundup • PanelStart simple; you can add segments later.
CadenceWeekly or bi-weeklyBatch record to stay ahead.
Episode outlineIntro → 2–3 key points → CTAUse a repeatable template to reduce prep time.

2) Record with Free Tools

  • Microphone: Your smartphone (voice memos) or a budget USB mic (if available).
  • Room: Quiet, soft surfaces (curtains, closet) to reduce echo.
  • Remote interviews: Free options like Zoom/Google Meet or browser recorders; record separate tracks if possible.

Speak close to the mic (a fist away). Use a pop filter (or a clean sock) to minimize plosives.

3) Edit for Clarity & Pace

Free editors like Audacity, Ocenaudio, or online tools can remove noise, trim pauses, and normalize loudness.

  • Cut filler (“um,” long pauses). Keep energy moving.
  • Normalize loudness around −16 LUFS (stereo) for consistent volume.
  • Add a short, rights-cleared intro/outro (under 15 seconds).

4) Cover Art, Title & Show Notes

  • Cover art: 3000×3000 px JPG/PNG; bold title + high contrast. Free design tools work well.
  • Episode titles: Clear benefit + keyword (e.g., “Crypto Wallets 101: Hardware vs. Mobile”).
  • Show notes: 1–2 paragraph summary, timestamps, links mentioned, and a simple CTA.

5) Free Hosting & Distribution

Choose a host with a free plan that provides an RSS feed and one-click distribution to major directories.

  1. Create your show in the host dashboard (title, description, cover art).
  2. Upload the MP3 (128–160 kbps is fine); paste your show notes.
  3. Submit the RSS to Apple Podcasts and Google Podcasts (one-time). Spotify usually integrates via the host.

Keep original audio files backed up (cloud + external drive). If you change hosts later, use an RSS 301 redirect.

6) Launch & Grow

  • Launch with 2–3 episodes so new listeners can binge.
  • Consistent CTA: “Follow the show and leave a review on Apple/Spotify.”
  • Cross-post: Share clips on X, Instagram Reels, TikTok, and YouTube Shorts.
  • Newsletter: Collect emails; send episode notes and extras weekly.
  • Guests: Invite niche experts; give them a share kit (art + links) on release day.

FAQs

What file settings should I export?

MP3, 128–160 kbps, 44.1 kHz, mono for talk shows to keep file sizes small and clear.

How do I monetize a free podcast?

Affiliate links in show notes, premium bonus episodes, sponsorship reads, or a simple support page (PayPal/Buy Me a Coffee).

Do I need transcripts?

Not required, but they improve accessibility and SEO. Many editors can auto-transcribe for free.

© Earning Money Online — Educational content only. Brand names belong to their owners; availability/features may change.

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