1. Generate Your Ideas
Start with a solid foundation:
- Define your topic and audience.
- Create outlines or full scripts to guide each episode.
- Think about formats: solo, interview or narrative?
Planning ahead saves time and shapes better content.
2. Choose the Right Recording Tool
University of York recommends:
- Audacity (free, open-source multi-track recorder for Windows/Mac/Linux)
- Zoom or Zencastr for remote interviews
- Sodaphonic (web-based)
- iOS Voice Memos or Android Voice Recorder for mobile options
Keep it simple but prioritize clear audio quality.
3. Record Your Content
Whether you are using professional gear or your phone, remember:
- Record in a quiet space.
- Monitor audio levels.
- Save backups of raw recordings.
The university's in-person studio setup includes a Rode Podcaster Pro 2, Shure MV7 mic and pop shields – available to those on campus.
4. Edit with Confidence
Use Audacity, the tool recommended by York and supported by workshops:
- Trim pauses, mistakes and filler words.
- Add music or sound effects.
- Mix and export in MP3 or WAV formats.
York’s Media Creation Lab also provides guides and workshops to help beginners navigate audio editing step by step.
5. Follow the Publishing Checklist
Before publishing:
- Tag audio files with proper metadata (title, artist, episode number).
- Check sound quality and export settings.
- Add episode descriptions, show notes and links.
Use tools like Anchor, Spotify for Podcasters or Podbean to distribute via RSS.
6. Repurpose for Reach
Don’t let the episode stop at audio:
- Turn quotes into audiograms or social media graphics.
- Transcribe for SEO-rich blog posts.
- Clip highlights for Instagram Reels or YouTube Shorts.
Repurposing extends content lifespan and expands reach.
7. Get Support if You Need It
York’s Creativity Lab and Media Creation Lab offer:
- In-person podcast studios
- Audio editing drop-ins
- One-to-one coaching
- Guided workshops on Audacity and podcast production
Even if you are not on campus, the workflow and free tools apply universally.
This simple 7-step approach from the University of York removes friction and uncertainty, which is perfect for solo creators, educators or small teams launching their first podcast.
