So you’ve heard the word “podcast” thrown around a lot lately—at work, on social media, maybe even from your best friend who won’t stop talking about their favorite true crime show. And now you’re sitting here wondering, what even is a podcast… and should I care?
Short answer: Yes, you probably should. And no worries—I’ve got you covered.
This beginner-friendly guide breaks down everything you need to know about podcasts, whether you’re thinking of listening to one or even starting your own. No confusing tech-speak. No pressure. Just real talk.
First Things First: What Even Is a Podcast?
A podcast is basically a series of digital audio episodes you can stream or download from the internet. Think of it like a radio show, but way more flexible—you can listen whenever you want, wherever you want.
Some podcasts are scripted like mini audio dramas. Others feel like you’re eavesdropping on a super interesting conversation. They can be funny, emotional, educational, weird… basically anything.
You can find podcasts about true crime, history, mental health, relationships, entrepreneurship, random celebrity gossip—there’s a podcast for everything.
Why Do People Even Listen to Podcasts?
Podcasts are kinda magical because you can learn, laugh, or totally zone out—all while doing something else. Commuting? Cleaning? Cooking? Walking your dog? Pop in some earbuds and boom—you’re multitasking like a pro.
They also create this intimate vibe, like the host is talking directly to you. It’s personal. You start to feel like you know the people behind the mic. Plus, they’re (usually) free. Big win.
How Does a Podcast Actually Work?
Okay, here’s the non-boring explanation:
- A person (or team) records an episode—basically, they talk into a mic and make audio magic.
- That audio gets edited and uploaded to a podcast hosting platform (more on that later).
- That platform creates an RSS feed—a fancy tech thing that updates every time there’s a new episode.
- Podcast directories (like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts) read that RSS feed and show new episodes in their apps.
So when you subscribe to a podcast, you’re just following that RSS feed. Anytime there’s something new, it pops up in your app. Super chill.
Read Also: How can listening to podcasts and webinars help you grow in your career?
How Do You Listen to a Podcast?
This part’s stupidly easy.
All you need is a podcast app (called a “podcatcher” in nerdier circles). Here are some of the most popular:
- Spotify
- Apple Podcasts (comes built-in with iPhones)
- Google Podcasts (or YouTube Music now)
- Pocket Casts
- Overcast
- Stitcher (well, until it shut down…)
You open the app, search for a topic or podcast name, tap on an episode, and hit play. That’s it.
You can also download episodes to listen offline—great for flights, road trips, or when your Wi-Fi sucks.
Thinking About Starting Your Own Podcast?
Awesome! It’s honestly not as intimidating as it seems.
Here’s what you need to get rolling:
1. An Idea + Audience
What do you want to talk about? Who’s it for? You don’t need a huge following, but you do need a focus. Whether it’s dating disasters, startup stories, or niche hobby stuff like competitive bird-watching (hey, no judgment), your podcast should have a vibe.
2. Some Basic Equipment
You do not need a fancy studio. A good USB mic and headphones will do. Maybe some editing software (Audacity or GarageBand—both free).
3. Recording & Editing
You can record solo, co-hosted, or interview-style. Clean up background noise, remove “ums” if you want, and add an intro/outro track. Don’t worry—it gets easier with practice.
4. Podcast Hosting
Once you have an episode, you upload it to a podcast host. This is different from Spotify or Apple Podcasts. Think of the host like the warehouse that stores your episodes.
Some popular hosts:
- Buzzsprout
- Libsyn
- Podbean
- Anchor (now Spotify for Podcasters)
Your host gives you the RSS feed, which you submit to places like Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Boom—you’re live.
Different Types of Podcasts
There’s no one “right” format, which is kind of the beauty of podcasting. Here are some common types:
- Interview Shows – You chat with guests about a specific topic (ex: The Tim Ferriss Show)
- Solo Shows – Just you sharing insights, advice, or stories (ex: personal development, business tips)
- Narrative/Scripted – Like audio documentaries or fictional dramas (ex: Serial, Welcome to Night Vale)
- Panel Shows – A group of hosts discusses topics, often with banter and humor (ex: The Basement Yard)
- News/Current Events – Short episodes focused on recent news (ex: The Daily)
Pick what feels natural to you. You can even mix formats if you want.
Read Also: How to promote your podcast on instagram?
Pros and Cons of Starting a Podcast
Let’s keep it real. Podcasting is awesome—but it’s not all sunshine and smooth audio.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| You build a connection with your audience | Editing takes time (and patience) |
| It’s relatively cheap to start | You might feel like no one’s listening at first (normal!) |
| You get to talk about things you genuinely care about | Consistency is key—you gotta keep showing up |
| It opens doors (networking, brand building, maybe even monetizing) | Growth can be slow unless you promote the heck out of it |
Tips for Podcast Beginners
- Start messy – Your first episode won’t be perfect. That’s fine. Just hit record.
- Be consistent – Weekly? Bi-weekly? Pick a schedule and stick to it.
- Focus on value – Give people a reason to keep listening.
- Promote it – Share clips, post on social, ask friends to spread the word.
- Keep learning – Listen to other podcasts. Notice what works.
Final Thoughts
Podcasting is one of the coolest ways to share your voice, connect with others, and maybe even build something meaningful. Whether you just want to explore cool shows or launch your own podcast empire, now you’ve got the basics.
So go ahead—subscribe to that show your friend keeps nagging you about. Or dust off your mic and hit record. Either way, welcome to the world of podcasts. You’re gonna love it here.
