Beginners

Beginner Podcasters – The Next Three Questions You Need To Ask Yourself Before Starting A Podcast

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Wouldn’t it be great if there were just three “magic” questions you could ask yourself and then immediately progress to producing your first podcast?

Well … yes … in a way that would be nice, but, it seems as though there are many questions on getting started and then you work through to the normal nuts and bolts questions so you can make your podcast as good as it can be technically.

Why can’t you just sit down and start talking into your microphone or recording device?

Well … the truth is … you can, but, I personally believe, if you are really serious about being a podcaster and turning out a podcast with regularity, you need to consider several things before you jump in with both feet. You need to fully consider what I call ‘the broader picture’ in this adventure called podcasting. Before you go to the all the trouble and possible expense, why not think about your full, long range, plan and intentions.

Does that mean you can’t have any fun and that everything has to be set in stone, serious and perfect from the beginning?? Of course not, it merely means that you should think further down the road than next week, (unless one more week is all you intend your podcast to be around for.)

A couple of weeks ago, I presented you with three questions you needed to ask yourself before starting a podcast. Now that you’ve had a chance to think about your real reasons for producing a podcast, here are the next three questions that would be good to consider before you actually invest your time and hard earned cash in equipment or software to make it happen.

Question one – Uniqueness

  • What makes your podcast unique?  Just what is it that separates yours from others and what is it that will keep you and your listeners coming back over and over again? Is it your personality? Is it the subject matter? or is it just because it is so much fun?

Question two – Niche Knowledge

  • How well do you know your chosen niche subject or subjects? This goes back to the question of, “just because you know a lot doesn’t mean you  know it all.”  If you are an expert in your field and have lots of shortcuts, tips and general, as well as specific, knowledge then you can probably be the authority on the chosen subject.  If not, you may want to consider …

Question three -Type of format

  • What type of format will your podcast be? Will it be an interview type? Or possibly a monologue type? Perhaps you will just depend on your ability to express yourself with your gift of gab.  Maybe you will choose a disc-jockey style with all the bells and  whistles as well as with playlists. May be you will simply talk about your subject with mood setting musical underlays or adding commercials and any number of technical complexities.

Look, I’m not trying to hold you back by asking a bunch of senseless questions or beat the preparation thing into the ground.  I just want to see you turn out the best podcast you can.  These questions don’t in any way cramp your creativity.  If anything, they will enhance your ability to accomplish your end results.

You see, I want you to accomplish your goals and not be disillusioned by the pressing demands over the long run by your continued involvement in this exciting way of communicating. I hope it is your intention to always be learning and striving for excellence with your production while at the same time having a great time and thoroughly enjoying creatively expressing yourself or your subject.

You can have a lot of fun podcasting and you can teach or inform others about your subject and also learn and hone your craft at the same time.  The sky really is the limit and the only thing that can hold you back is lack of preparation and planning.  Sure, there will be times when it is difficult and there will be times you may be disappointed, but, if you “take the time it takes to think it through” before you run across those times, you will succeed beyond your wildest dreams.

See ya next time …

Rusty

Beginner Podcasters – Three Important Questions You Need To Ask Yourself Before Starting A Podcast

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“So … why can’t you just start a podcast?” Well, that’s a really good question and here’s another. “Why bother thinking about the ins and outs and pesky details of making a podcast when all you want to do is interview people and/or talk about what-ever comes to mind?” Well, that’s another good question, and here’s one more. “When all is said and done, couldn’t spontaneity be the key to a successful podcast?”

The answers to these three questions are:

  • you can;
  • you don’t have to
  • and, yes.

But these are not the three most important questions you need to ask yourself before you start your own podcast. Hopefully, you will consider these and other questions as you progress towards producing your own podcast, but, you see, there are a lot of things that need to be considered and some are more important than others.

Let’s get real here. Audio recording and editing (especially simple, digital recording and non-destructive editing) is not at all difficult in this day and age but it is an ever-evolving craft as far as equipment and software is concerned. Although not quite the same, this same thought holds true for video recording and editing. Podcasting, more often than not, is merely an extension of recording and editing either audio or video or both.

While we’re at it, let’s not forget what a definition of podcasting actually is. It is the ability of the listener to take recorded audio or video files of information they’re interested in and listen to them at a time more convenient for them. Perhaps better stated, it is a recorded audio or video file that is portable and time-shiftable by the listener.

In the end, however simple or complicated you decide to make the above tasks determines what equipment and software you will need, but those are questions we can better answer later.

Now that we’ve gotten those preliminaries out of the way, there are other things you need to consider as you plan producing your podcast. You don’t need to consider every little detail here at the beginning, but you do need to think about the bigger picture. In other words, you may know you want to be podcaster, but, do you know what you are getting yourself into?

Let’s take a look at three of the questions you really need to ask yourself before you get started and before you make any large investments in equipment or software.

First: Just how serious are you about making a regular podcast?

  • You must first make up your mind whether or not you are really serious about doing a regular podcast. Believe me, somewhere down the road you will definitely come to the point of answering this question and you might as well answer it first. It is one of the most important you can ask yourself right now, before you spend any money or invest in any equipment or software. Think it through. After the newness wears off and the drudgery kicks in will you still want to pursue this?

Second: How much do you want to invest in this adventure?

  • Just because you only have a little money — or don’t have any money — to invest in equipment or software doesn’t mean you can’t achieve your goal. It just means you may have to be more creative in your approach to getting started. It may mean you have to think a little harder or consider more broadly how you can actually get started or where you want to spend what little money you do or don’t have to purchase the necessary equipment or software. It is my opinion, if you have a relatively new computer and a microphone that records your voice somewhat decently, you are ready to get started, (even if only on a limited basis to begin with.) Your options are still wide open in any case. Trust me, if you really want to be a podcaster, there are even ways to be one whether you have a computer or not.

Third: How willing are you to listen to the input of others even if you have a working knowledge of recording, editing and podcasting?

  • Just because you know a lot doesn’t mean you know it all. Swallow that pride, be open-minded and listen to the input of others. You may not agree with them and you may not use all or any of what they offer but you can gain valuable input and information from them; and come to better know why you do things the way you do and why their way won’t work for you. You never know, you may actually find they have some really good ideas that you can tweak and use for your own purpose. (Who knows, you may even one day discover that people are willing to listen to what you have to say concerning this ever-changing way of communicating ideas to others.)

As I said earlier in this article, there are many things you need to consider before jumping headlong into your choice of podcasting. These are three of the ones I consider to be most important to consider before you get started. I do believe if you take the time to evaluate them and your plans for your production you will be miles ahead now and in the future.

See you next time …

Russ

Why I Like Mike Stewart and His Recommendations on Podcasting Equipment and Software – episode #0039

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Russ

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AudioGenerator.Com

If someone would have told you 3-4 years ago that podcasting was going to be as popular as it is today and that you would be able to get your favorite music and podcasts through your cell phone, would that have made a difference in your life at that time?

If your answer is yes, (or even a ‘maybe’), then I have some great information for you today. I know of someone (and I am sure he was not alone) who said just that 3-4 years ago and that’s one of the reasons I look to him for software and equipment recommendations. I listen closely what he says about the future of podcasting with audio, video or both and thoroughly enjoy the excitement in his voice when he shares his thoughts and insights into recording, editing, podcasting and production.

Who is this person, you ask?

In the past, I have mentioned to you many times this person named, Mike Stewart. If you have never visited his sites or taken advantage of his expertise, you shouldn’t put it off any longer. He has branded himself, (and is known as), the “internetaudioguy” and the “internetvideoguy“. (That’s not all he can do but that’s a good place to start in this conversation.)

I have visited his sites many times and have to tell you, he and a few of his friends are always coming up with cutting edge stuff to make the job of recording, editing and podcasting, using audio and video, easier and more understandable. He can help you get started with the proper equipment and software without you having to do a lot of trial and error along the way. His input could save you a lot of wasted time and money as you pursue your podcasting journey further.

One thing I have personally tried to get across in past discussions is, “Don’t complicate your podcasting life by making things more difficult than they need to be. Keep it simple. Make it simple for yourself and your listener.” That is why I suggest you check out Mike Stewart. He can help you get started without complicating your life with a lot of ‘stuff’ that just makes him money and does very little for you.

I firmly believe the information and resources I provide can help you get started podcasting “On The Cheap” (which just happens to be the title of my soon available ebook for beginners getting started as podcasters.) But, when I say, “On The Cheap” I want you to understand it is a relative term:

  • If you have no money, you can still do this podcasting thing with no money, (depending on what you already have as equipment).
  • If you have a little money, you can spend a little money and have pretty good setup.
  • If money is not a real problem, it is still important to only invest in what you need and not buy a bunch of frills you will never use.

To me, ‘Podcasting “On the Cheap”, means you don’t spend money on things you don’t need or can’t afford, but, wisely invest the money you do have in what will benefit you most. To simplify, “Cheap” means, “you only pay for what you need once and because of that, you didn’t waste any time or money.

What I have shared with you in the past still holds true. I think the information and resources I give you here can help you get started at a point that you can afford. At the very least,

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Simple Things — continued — (alternate version)

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I don’t intend to make a habit of this, but, I just couldn’t talk myself out of it. You can call me crazy if you want, but, I just wanted to put this thing out with a musical floor and so that’s what I did.

If you listened to episode #0037, then please, listen to this version (#0037a) and leave me your comments concerning your preference of the version without the musical floor under the main talk (#0037) or the version with a musical floor (#0037a).

Since a future article will talk about more reasons for using a musical floor I thought it might be fun to get some outside input from ya’ll.

Please listen to both if you have the time and let me know what you think. You don’t have to write me book and, please, don’t be too harsh, but do be honest. Maybe you don’t care one way or the other, (that’s okay, too). Whatever your thoughts are please take the time to comment.

I look forward to hearing from you.

See ya next time …

Simple Things Can Make Your Podcast Better

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I listen to many podcasts, audio books and audio blogs by many different people and some just drive me crazy. There are just some things I don’t like and when I hear someone continually do the same things over and over … well … it just gets to me.

Here are some of the things that particularly bother me:

  • Pops, cracks and scratchy sounds
  • Hums and buzzing sounds
  • Background noises that continually cause distractions
  • Room ambience. (You know, that ‘echo-y’ sound that comes from a live room, like you’re doing your podcast in the kitchen or bathroom. I know, I know; some of you actually do that, don’t you?)
  • Intro music that is much louder than the talking that follows
  • Exit music that disrupts the final statements of the person(s) talking

In general, I think it is important to pay at least a little attention to detail. (In fact, I admit I probably sometimes pay a little too close attention to details. Sorry, it’s just the way I’m put together.)

I’m not here to say that everything needs to sound as though it is done in the studio, but, some of the more bothersome distractions can generally be quite simply eliminated, or, at least minimized. When I say that, I mean it doesn’t generally take a degree in rocket science to make a noticeable difference. All it really takes is paying attention to some small details.

Have you ever considered what your listeners may think about your podcast?

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What Does Podcasting Mean To You?

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Podcasting is very popular and a very interesting form of communication. On the one hand, some think it is a way for them to say what ever they want and not have to worry about what others think. On the other hand, some think it is a complete waste of time and they would rather not have to be exposed to such an obtrusive distraction. In reality, the truth lay somewhere in between.

Somewhere in that mixture of thought processes is the question of what Podcasting means to you and before we move on too much further, you need to answer these questions for your self:

  • Have you actually considered just how powerful of a means of communication it can be?
  • Is it something you want to use as a form of communicating your viewpoint to others?
  • Is it something you simply use to become informed on subjects of interest to you?
  • Is it something you desire to use to teach, preach or reach others with subjects of interest to you or important information you think the world needs to know?
  • Do you consider the quality of the productions (podcasts) to be important or do you just like the subject matter enough to not care how good or bad it may sound or look?
  • Does your idea for a podcast include thinking about the cost it may take to accomplish your desired “end result?”
  • Do you really think you can do it?

All of these thoughts are good points of interest to consider and all of them need to be considered before you invest a large sum of money pursuing your dream. In fact, I am here to help you get started, “On The Cheap”, and I know you can do it inexpensively if you want. I also know you can start inexpensively and build from that point and only invest the amount you need to accomplish your goals for your podcast.

I understand and have to admit, it is easy to get all excited and spend more money than you need to just to get started.

What if I told you you could get started for next to nothing?

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Podcasting in 2008 … What’s your plan for the coming year??

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Are you a new podcaster (or an advanced podcaster) looking get started or make changes to your podcast for the coming year, 2008?

Since this is the new year it is as good a time as any to think about your plan for podcasting in the New Year and what, exactly, you want to accomplish in the months ahead?

  • Have you been thinking about starting a Podcast?
  • Have you been podcasting but not getting anyone to stop by and listen?
  • Have you been trying to make a podcast worth listening to?
  • Have you just been throwing one together or have you had at least some sort of a plan?
  • Do you want to make your podcast better than ever this year?

If some, or all, of these relate to you then this is one place you want to visit frequently in the year ahead. I really believe it will be worth your time.

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When Longer Really Is Better__ … __Podcasting Quicktip #8 __(Making Short Musical Spots, Longer)

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(Click Here) for the podcast version of this article from “mypodcast.com”

(Click Here) for the podcast version of this article from “podcastpeople.com”

Since we’ve recently been talking about putting a musical floor beneath your talking or reading of your podcast, you may have the problem of your musical spots being to short. So, if that is the case, what can you do to make them longer?

In this article I will be talking about, and using “Audacity” (1.3.0-beta version). It’s for Windows XP . If you download a later version, (like 1.3.3, which I think is the latest) I will be updating this article and it’s information to that version soon. There are some slight differences in the 1.3.3 version and I am not totally familiar with it yet, (but you can get it by Clicking Here).

If you are using an editing program like “Audacity” I will be showing you what I consider to be the easiest way to extend the length of those short musical spots that you have access user rights to and want to use. Even if you aren’t using “Audacity”, the principles and techniques will still hold true. This is not something that is hard, but it does require you to expend a little effort to accomplish the desired results. Who knows; you may actually find that it’s a lot of fun finding ways to make them work differently.

Remember; my examples are just that– examples– and please do not think I am in anyway trying to limit your creative capabilities. I simply offer these examples as my creative offering.

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Having Laugh Or Two With My Podcast Out-Takes

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I seriously thought about calling this audio blog/article, “And you thought this was easy,” but I was afraid you wouldn’t hang around and listen to the out-takes I have for you and then you would miss out on having a good laugh or two.

Well, for some this may be easy, but for others, (myself included), it only seems that way. Even if you didn’t think it to be so, take comfort in the fact that you too, with a little editing practice and expertise, can make your podcast flow with the best of them and sound as professional as anyone’s.

Today, I wanted you to have a little fun today at my expense. I am going to take you behind the scenes of my podcast before it is edited. Unfortunately, I am sure this may be something I will someday regret, BUT, I wanted you to see that you don’t have to be even close to perfect to make something happen out of what may originally seem like a disaster. (Take heart good friend, this is all about editing out the stuff you don’t want people to hear. )

This is why I like to pre-record my instructional podcasts and why I know — absolutely — “You Can Do This!”

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Things To Consider For The Main Body Of Your Production

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Now we come to the main body of your audio podcast. I can’t really tell you too much about the body of your podcast. It is up to you, your subject matter and the format you decide to use with your podcasting idea. What I can tell you is that there are several ways in which you can present it.

The choice is naturally, up to you in how you want to present your information or interviews. I personally like a couple of ways. One is without a music floor and one is with. For those of you that are totally new to some of this, I offer this short explanation as my interpretation of a ‘music floor’.

A ‘music floor’ is some kind of music, usually instrumental, playing beneath your talking or reading of your scripted material. My musical choices are very likely going to be different than yours. Some of you really like to “rock out” and some of you are really into that “head bangin” stuff. Those are fine if that is your taste and choice. Others will choose “heavy metal” while still others will choose some more laid back types such as “easy listening”, “jazz” or even “classical.”

Any of these are reasonable choices because it doesn’t really matter that much what type you choose, but there are a few things to consider while you make your choices in types or styles.

One of the most important things to consider is to make completely sure that the music you choose is not overpowering what you say and the second most important is right there with it.

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