Yes, but not the way most people think. You don’t need a fancy studio or a voice like a radio host. You don’t need thousands of listeners on day one. You need a clear idea, a simple setup, and the consistency to stick with it.
This guide breaks down how to start a podcast that people will actually want to hear. Whether you’re launching solo or with friends, these tips will help you get going and grow.
Why Podcasts Are Still Growing
Podcasts are not slowing down. According to Edison Research, 62% of people in the US over 12 have listened to a podcast, and the numbers are climbing globally too.
More creators are entering the space because it’s flexible. You can record from home. You control the tone and length. And unlike video, people can listen while doing other things like driving, cooking, or walking.
One indie host from Leeds said, “I record at night when the kids are asleep. I started with my phone and a pillow fort. Now I have 10,000 downloads a month.”
The barrier to entry is low. The challenge is standing out.
Choose a Niche That Helps You Stay Consistent
Start with what you know or what you’re curious about. Don’t chase trends. Focus on a topic you won’t get bored with in a month.
Some of the most successful podcasts are narrow and focused. Instead of “news,” do “local news for Manchester creatives.” Instead of “movies,” go for “underrated horror films from the 90s.”
This makes it easier to attract loyal listeners and easier to come up with episodes.
Keep the Format Simple
Pick a structure and stick with it. This helps listeners know what to expect.
You can choose:
- Solo commentary
- Co-hosted conversation
- Interview format
- Q&A or listener submissions
- Storytelling or documentary style
Most beginner podcasters overcomplicate things. The best advice is to keep it short and keep it clear.
A startup founder from Brighton said, “My first podcast was 45 minutes long and had five segments. No one finished it. I restarted with 15-minute focused tips, and people stuck around.”
Less is more when you’re starting out.
Get the Right Gear Without Overpaying
You don’t need pro-level gear. You just need a quiet room, a good mic, and editing software.
Start with:
- USB mic like the Samson Q2U or Blue Yeti
- Free software like Audacity or GarageBand
- Headphones to check your audio
- Blanket or closet to soften echo
Don’t worry about perfection. Most listeners care more about what you say than how polished it sounds.
And always record a test before your real episode. Nothing kills motivation faster than losing a great take to bad audio.
Plan Your First Five Episodes
Before you launch, plan and record your first five episodes. This gives you a buffer and helps you work out your style.
Make each episode focus on one clear idea. Give it a title that’s simple and searchable. Stay away from vague titles like “Episode 1” or “Chatting with Friends.”
Also write a short description for each episode. This helps with search and gives new listeners a reason to press play.
Choose a Hosting Platform
To publish your podcast, you need a host. This is where your audio files live.
Popular options include:
- Buzzsprout
- Podbean
- Anchor (now part of Spotify for Podcasters)
- Libsyn
These platforms will send your show to apps like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts.
Some hosts offer analytics so you can track downloads, listener locations, and trends.
Promote Without Feeling Annoying
Your podcast won’t grow on its own. Share clips on social media. Ask guests to share with their audience. Submit your show to podcast directories.
Join online communities in your niche. Talk about topics you cover. Share episodes when they add value to the conversation.
You can also turn episodes into blog posts or quotes. Add a call-to-action in each episode, like “Leave a review if this helped” or “Send us a question for next week.”
Just don’t spam. Focus on real connections.
Handle Reviews and Feedback the Smart Way
Not all feedback is nice. Some people will criticise your voice, opinions, or format. That’s part of putting yourself out there.
If someone leaves a fake review or attacks you unfairly, take screenshots. Report it to the platform. If it’s serious, there are ways to take further steps. For example, in some cases, creators explore legal action against fake Google reviews to protect their name and business.
One podcaster in Glasgow said, “I had someone leave a fake one-star review pretending to be a guest. I contacted support, sent proof, and got it removed. You have to protect your work.”
But don’t let every comment shake your confidence. Focus on what helps you improve.
Stay Consistent (Even When You Don’t Feel Like It)
Most podcasts fail by episode 7. That’s where people run out of energy or ideas.
To avoid that, pick a publishing schedule you can actually keep. Weekly is great, but twice a month works too. Just be consistent.
Batch record if you can. This helps you avoid falling behind during busy weeks.
Celebrate small wins. Every listener matters. Growth takes time.
Track Progress and Adjust
Use analytics to learn what works. Which episodes get more downloads? Do listeners drop off after five minutes? What topics get more shares?
Use this data to improve, but don’t obsess over it. The goal is progress, not perfection.
One creator said, “My fifth episode had half the listeners of my first. But the feedback was stronger. That told me I was on the right track, even if the numbers dipped.”
Look for patterns, not pressure.
Final Thoughts
Starting a podcast is easier than ever. But building one that lasts takes effort.
You don’t need a fancy setup or a big audience. You need a strong topic, clear episodes, and the will to keep going.
The best shows start simple. They find their voice over time. And they earn trust by showing up again and again.
So if you’re asking, “Can anyone start a podcast people actually listen to?”
Yes. But only if you care enough to keep showing up. One episode at a time.
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