365: Starter Podcaster Setups

Selling the Couch

One of the most common questions I’m asked is about the gear needed to begin podcasting. I will honestly admit that it’s a difficult decision when you’re just starting because you want reliable equipment that does a great job, but you are also hesitant to break the bank for it. As you progress, several factors complicate the choices of gear, such as how you conduct guest interviews and whether you have a co-host. In today’s session, I’m walking you through four common podcasting scenarios and the gear I recommend for each. All of this information is compiled in the Buying Guide found inside our Healthcasters course.

You’ll Learn:

• My gear setup as I started the STC podcast in 2015 with a teeny, tiny budget
• My advice for beginning podcasters: “Don’t go out and purchase all the gear I mention, but go with the basics as you focus on building and honing your storytelling and interviewing skills.”
• Four podcasting scenarios and the recommended equipment:
• 1- A single host with solo episodes and guest interviews via the Internet.
• I recommend the Samsung Q2U dynamic mic, Koolertron mic shock mount, OnStage foam windscreen, pop filter, mic stand, and Rode PSA mic arm.
• 2- A single host who interviews guests in person.
• In addition to the basic equipment in Scenario #1, I recommend a 2-3 camera set-up (very expensive!), Calendly to coordinate interviews, 2 tabletop stands/mic arms, the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 for recording, and XLR cables.
• 3- Co-hosts who connect and interview guests via the Internet.
• I recommend the basic equipment in Scenario #1 for EACH co-host, along with a recording platform, like Zoom or Ecamm Live.
• 4- Co-hosts who get together in-person to interview guests in person. This is a dream set-up, but it is very expensive and complicated.
• I recommend the basic equipment in Scenario #1 for EACH co-host and guest (Yes, that is at least three of everything!), along with the Rodecaster Pro (the Rodecaster Pro II or Pro Mini), 32 GB SD card, and XLR cables.
• My advice: “Start with a lean setup. My current gear costs around $5000, but I didn’t upgrade for several years when I started out.”
• Check out the free workshop, Using Podcasting to Grow Your Business.

Resources:

Want to launch your podcast?

Check out our free podcasting workshop for therapists (and therapists turned coaches and consultants)

https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworshop

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

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