Master podcasting checklist

Master podcasting checklist

This list below recaps the practical items we cover in this course. After you create a few episodes many things will become habitual, and you may not need every technique during every episode process. Some items are also “one and done.” But this list may be a helpful reference in the future — and an affirmation of how much you’ve learned!

  • Set a timer and free-write for 15-25 minutes

  • Talk to yourself in a voice memo

  • Explain the idea to someone

  • Journal about the idea

  • Complete first draft

  • Add research or interview as necessary

  • Revise draft

  • Do script read-through and get feedback

  • Revise script (repeat as necessary!)

Section 1 ▫︎ scriptwriting

  • Do vocal warmups

  • Drink pineapple juice, tea with lemon, or other warm, acidic beverage 30 min before

  • Stand up!

  • Set up blanket fort / closet / recording environment

  • Do sound check / test recording

  • Smile. Don't read — imagine you're talking to a friend or loved one

  • Record VoiceOver

Section 2 ▫︎ voiceover

  • Write (or update) your interview ethos

  • Create remote guest interview instructions

  • Prepare guest release form

  • Put together guest information form

  • Research information about guest

  • Set up primary and backup recording methods

  • Contact guest to request interview

  • Schedule interview time with guest

  • Send forms and instructions to guest

  • Do interview! (Muting yourself while guest is talking may be helpful.)

  • Save files! Ask guest to send you backup recording just in case.

  • Edit interview

  • Follow up with guest: thanks, draft social posts, & clips if applicable

Section 3 ▫︎ interviewing

  • Import VoiceOver WAV file into Descript

  • Import interview(s) into Descript

  • Remove filler words

  • Post-it exercise: mark sections with headings. Color-code by theme. Rearrange to create story structure.

  • Re-order cleaned-up interview and VO to match post-its

  • Depending on your editing approach, take out extra spaces, mouth noises, etc.

  • Export from Descript and import audio files into your DAW

  • Add music and sound effects

  • Adjust volume levels for different tracks

  • Insert front bumper, theme music, ad breaks, and end credits

  • Do final listen-through, then export mp3

Section 4 ▫︎ audio editing

  • Choose podcast syndication / hosting service

  • Fill out show information on hosting service

  • Choose website platform

  • Buy web domain for podcast

  • Set up web pages & write website copy

  • Add photos where needed (including your own!)

  • Create or get help with podcast logo

  • Plan episode release schedule

  • Document show notes & transcripts

Section 5 ▫︎ logistics & launch

  • Join industry groups

  • Send out email newsletters

  • Seek out promo, trailer, and episode swaps

  • Register to attend, volunteer, or speak at conferences

  • Attend and give webinars

  • Submit to award shows

  • Set up social media profile(s)

  • Create social posts

  • Build relationships with industry press

  • Write press release about launch

  • Send press release out

  • Apply for Apple Podcasts "new & notable"

  • Hire virtual assistant

Section 6 ▫︎ promotions

  • Recruit launch team

  • Solicit donors / create bonus material

  • Apply for nonprofit or arts grants

  • Join freelance network like AIR Media or Pod People

  • Set up Patreon, Glow, or other donation platform

  • Seek sponsors

  • Create pitch deck

  • Apply for podcast accelerators

  • Pitch your show to networks / corporate overlords

  • Build affiliate program

  • Develop training materials

Section 7 ▫︎ support

All set? We can’t wait to see your show out there!