PODCASTING tips
To create the BEST audio experience for YOU and our listeners!
Listen. If you are not a typical consumer of podcasts, this is a crucial step. Find similar programs to the one you are set to be on (or hope to be on). Also, listen to several episodes of those on which you are booked. By listening, you get a feel for the host, the format, the energy, the host-guest dynamic, and the audience. As a plus, you get a sense of what makes for a great guest.
Speak. Try to refrain from “and”, “um” and other repeat phrases. It’s better to pause and think clearly then to speak while still formulating a thought. If you feel you mis-speak at any time, just pause- and then begin again. Speak naturally, trying not to read or memorize.
A Roadmap. Before your interview, the host will provide ideas for any topics or questions for which you should prepare. Even if you have successfully pitched the host, don’t assume your suggested pitch is the only topic that will be discussed.
Create bulleted notes. You can refer to your main points during the conversation. Try and refrain from reading your answers off a written script; it will sound as if you are reading, because you are. The passion, energy, and enthusiasm the host hopes to work with may potentially be stilted.
Software. You should have one of the browsers Chrome or FireFox downloaded, as we will be using Zencastr for most of our audio recording. You dont have to have zencastr downloaded- I will send you an email with the interview link when we are live for recording! Make sure you have the hardware and software that corresponds to a host’s needs and offers good sound quality. Skype is the back-up service we use to record podcasts.
Microphone. External Mics are less of a necessity, but having one dramatically increases audio quality and reduces echo. An external mic will make you sound better than your computer’s/ phone’s internal mic. Newer phones do have improving mic systems- but an in-line headset or earbuds would be better quality. Here is a great video on Mic Technique, as well as:
Good Microphone Technique:
Stay 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) from your microphone.
Wear headphones.
Go somewhere quiet. If you hear something, the microphone probably can, too.
Turn off notification sounds or set to DND.
Try to stay still.
Don’t worry if something goes wrong.
Good Microphone Technique for Telephone:
Don’t use speakerphone.
Go somewhere quiet. If you hear something, the phone probably can, too.
Turn off notification sounds or set to DND.
Try to stay still or use headphones to reduce rustling noises.
Don’t worry if something goes wrong.
Headphones. You will need a set of headphones so the host’s voice is not coming out of your speakers and echoing in the recording. Earbuds with an in-line microphone (like those that come packaged with an iPhone) work great! If those aren’t available, any pair of working headphones is an improvement over hearing feedback from a laptop’s built-in speakers. The lag that comes along with hearing processed audio could disrupt the natural flow of the conversation. Plus, it’s jarring to hear yourself at a delay.
Practice. Well before the interview, test out the equipment and software to make sure it works and you know how to work it. Record yourself and critique the performance. By the time of your interview, you will have refined your sound and become comfortable with the technology. Also, just glance over what you plan to talk about and your notes for discussed topics.
Create a professional space. It’s ideal to call from a quiet space. It sounds more professional, leaves the host with potentially less editing, and undoubtedly leaves you feeling lighter and less distracted.