How to Start a Podcast according to Tim Ferriss (and others)
Suffice it to say, Tim Ferriss has improved my life. While he’s improved my life in many ways — through the likes of improved exercise, eating, sleeping, getting things done, debt freedom, emotional intelligence, and more — if I’m being quite honest, he’s also one of the main reasons why I learned how to start a podcast in the first place. Yes, not only does Tim have a wealth of information on how to start a podcast, how to make a good podcast, and how to make a successful podcast that lasts, he also has an abundance of principles that someone new to podcasting can use today. So if you’re wondering, “how do I start a podcast with no audience?” perhaps start with the following resources as a jumping off point.
How to start a podcast for free by someone who has gone on the journey
If the old adage holds any water, “never take travel advice from someone who hasn’t gone on the journey,” then I recommend you begin your podcast journey with the following Tim Ferriss Show episode.
This episode is a masterclass on how to make a good podcast. The fact is, starting a podcast isn’t that difficult. Sustaining a podcast, however, is the challenge because continual production is an ultra-marathon. So before you commit to the next ten years of podcast-work, why not start with a series of only 6 or 8 episodes?
Beyond “how do I start a podcast” and toward continual podcast content
So you’re ready to move toward continual podcast production. Groovy! I’m here for it. In that case, try these three pieces on for size.
- Tim Ferriss blog, “How I Built a #1-Ranked Podcast With 60M+ Downloads”
- Tim Ferriss with Alex Blumberg, “How to Create a Blockbuster Podcast (#58 & #59)”
- Deviate with Rolf Potts, “Bestselling author Tim Ferriss on how to create a successful podcast”
How to run a podcast when recording remotely
To interview or not to interview, that will be one of your podcast questions. If you do elect to have guests on your show, the following platforms are affordable and easy solutions. Personally, I use Zencastr, but I hear very good things about the others, also.
Oh and it’s worth adding — having one recording system can lead to failure. If the internet breaks, you’ll be up a creek without a paddle. To protect against recording failure, I’d recommend a backup recording option for your phone. The audio quality might not as strong, but continuing to record will be well worth it.
Podcasts, classes, books, and more
A four part series from the makers of Gimlet Media, the following is a wonderful resource if you’re serious about learning the fundamentals of podcast storytelling. It will cover everything from episode structure, pitching, and the ever-mysterious capturing good tape. It’s free and you can find it on Spotify:
Moreover, if you REALLY want a deep dive on the subject of podcasting, these books are worth the investment.
- Out on the Wire: The Storytelling Secrets of the New Masters of Radio
- Sound Reporting: The NPR Guide to Audio Journalism and Production
- NPR’s Podcast Start Up Guide: Create, Launch, and Grow a Podcast on Any Budget
And, if you want more explicit instruction, these two training programs are quality. Truthfully, I’ve only taken the Akimbo workshop, but I’ve collaborated with Pat Flynn’s team while working on another podcast in the past. From my experience, his company makes good products.
Parting thoughts…
In closing, your first hurdle is to get past start. Ironically, the only way to get past start IS to start! Thereafter, the next hurdle is to continually release an episode week after week. While the second hurdle is the bigger obstacle, it’s worth asking, is podcasting the right medium for you…long-term?
Whether it is or it isn’t, the only way to find out is to start. In sum, get past square one, make a short series, and then decide.
Go forth!
Sam
