Podcasting is booming—450 million listeners in 2023, projected to reach 619 million by 2026. With a market value heading toward $17.59 billion by 2030(Riverside), there’s never been a better time to start. Whether you’re on a budget or aiming to monetize, this 2025 guide will show you how to start a podcast, even with no audience or upfront cost.
Why Podcasting in 2025 Is a No-Brainer
So… why now? Why should you start a podcast in 2025?
The Industry Is Still Growing
Despite all the noise, we’re not too late to the game—podcasting is still booming. By 2025, there are expected to be over 584 million podcast listeners worldwide. And with platforms like YouTube and Spotify pushing video podcasting, plus increased smart speaker and car integration, podcasts are more accessible than ever.
If you’re wondering how to start a podcast and actually grow it, now is the perfect time. The market is projected to reach $17.59 billion by 2030, and there’s a niche for everything—from mindfulness for single dads to crypto for beginners.
It’s Easier (and Cheaper) Than Ever
Back in the day, you’d need a soundproof room, expensive equipment, and a degree in audio engineering. Not anymore. With beginner-friendly podcast mics, free editing tools, and platforms that let you host and distribute with a click, you can literally start a podcast today with just your laptop and an idea.
We’ll walk you through how much it costs to start a podcast (spoiler: less than you think), and what you need (and don’t need) to get going.
You Can Start With No Audience
Think you need a huge following to succeed? You don’t. In fact, some of the best podcasts started with zero listeners and grew through consistency and value. We’ll explain how to start a podcast with no audience, build your first group of fans, and eventually grow into a recognizable name in your niche.
Podcasting Can Actually Make You Money
Yes, podcasting can be profitable—if you approach it the right way. From sponsorships and merch to courses and coaching, there are tons of ways to monetize your show once you’ve built some traction. Later in this post, we’ll show you how to start a podcast and make money, step-by-step.
Video Podcasting Is the Future
Want to go the extra mile? Starting a video podcast is a smart move in 2025. With the explosion of TikTok, YouTube Shorts, and Spotify video, creators who publish both audio and video versions of their episodes tend to grow faster and build deeper audience connections. And yes—we’ll cover how to start a video podcast too, even on a budget.
How to Make a Podcast: Your 2025 Step-by-Step Blueprint
Step1: Pick Your Podcast Topic & Format:
Niche Down: Specificity attracts dedicated listeners. Instead of "Tech," try "AI Tools for Small Marketing Teams."
Passion + Knowledge: Choose something you can talk about endlessly.
Format: Solo, interview, co-hosted, narrative storytelling, panel? Match format to topic and strengths.
Target Audience: Who are you speaking to? Define them clearly.
Step2: Choose a Name & Branding:
Memorable & Clear: Reflects your topic instantly.
Check Availability: Domain, social handles, podcast directories.
Visual Identity: Design a simple, professional logo and choose consistent colors/fonts. Canva is great for beginners.
Step3: Choose and Setup Your Podcast Equipment (2025 Essentials):
Before you hit record, you’ll need to create a podcasting setup that sounds (and possibly looks) great. The good news? You don’t need to spend a fortune to sound professional. Whether you’re planning a basic audio podcast or diving into video podcasting, here’s what your 2025 podcast setup should include.
🎙️ Microphone (Essential)
Your mic is the heart of your sound. For beginners, USB microphones like the Samson Q2U or Audio-Technica ATR2100x are fantastic—they’re affordable, easy to use, and sound great out of the box.
If you want to go pro, XLR microphones like the NearStream AM25X or Rode PodMic offer studio-quality sound, but require an audio interface (more on that next).
Want the best of both worlds? A USB/XLR hybrid mic like the NearStream AM25X gives you flexibility: plug directly into your computer now, and grow into a pro setup later. Perfect for beginners who don’t want to reinvest in a second mic as they level up.
🎧 Headphones
Use closed-back headphones like the Audio-Technica M-Series to monitor your audio while recording. This prevents echo and ensures your levels stay consistent.
🎚️ Audio Interface (For XLR Mics)
If you’re using an XLR mic, you’ll need an interface to connect it to your computer. The Focusrite Scarlett Solo or 2i2 are reliable, beginner-friendly choices.
🎥 Video Podcasting Gear (Optional but Recommended)
Want to start a video podcast in 2025? Video content is exploding across platforms, and having even a simple video setup can help your show stand out.
📷 Camera
Start with a high-quality webcam like the Logitech C920x HD, or upgrade to a 4K Streaming Camera like the NearStream VM20 or Sony ZV-E10 for crisp, cinematic video.
💡 Lighting
Good lighting can make even a webcam look great. Use a key light + fill light setup (a ring light and a small softbox work well). If you’re on a budget, natural window light works too—just avoid backlighting.
🛋️ Acoustic Treatment
Recording in a room with echoes? You’ll sound like you’re in a bathroom. Improve your space by adding:
- Blankets or rugs on hard surfaces
- Foam panels on walls
- A portable vocal booth (or just a thick closet)
Your podcast setup doesn’t have to be perfect—it just needs to be good enough to let your voice shine. Up next, we’ll walk through how to structure your show and actually hit “record.”
Step4: Record Your First Episode (Leveraging NearStream for Video):
Script/Outline: Don't wing it. Plan key points.
Recording Software: Audacity (free), Riverside.fm, SquadCast (great audio/video), Descript (edits like a doc).
Environment: Quiet room, phones off, minimize background noise.
Remote Guests: Use Riverside.fm, SquadCast, or Zencastr for separate, high-quality tracks.
Test First! Record a minute and listen back.
Step5: Edit and Finalize:
Software: Audacity (free), GarageBand (Mac), Descript (transcription-based, easy), Adobe Audition, Hindenburg Journalist. DaVinci Resolve (free) or Adobe Premiere Pro for video editing.
Basics: Cut mistakes, long pauses, "ums/ahs." Level audio (normalize). Add intro/outro music (use royalty-free sites like Epidemic Sound, Artlist). Add subtle background music if desired.
Export: MP3 format (Stereo, 128kbps or 192kbps). For video, H.264 MP4.
Step6: Podcast Hosting and Distribution:
Choose a Host: This is NOT where your podcast lives on Apple/Spotify. Hosts store your files and generate your RSS feed. Popular 2025 options: Buzzsprout, Captivate, Transistor, Podbean, RSS.com.
Upload: Upload your final MP3/MP4 file and episode details (title, description, artwork) to your host.
Step7: Submit to Directories (Get Listed Everywhere!):
Your host provides an RSS feed. Submit this feed to:
Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, Stitcher, TuneIn, Pocket Casts
Submit to YouTube: Upload video versions or create audiograms/static images with audio. Crucial for discovery.
How to Start a Podcast for Free (Yes, Really!)
It's entirely possible with minimal investment:
- Planning & Topic: Free (Brainpower!).
- Name & Branding: Free name checks. Use Canva (free tier) for logo/artwork.
- Equipment: Use your smartphone's built-in mic/earbuds. Free recording apps (Voice Memos, Dolby On).
- Recording Software: Audacity (Desktop), GarageBand (Mac), Anchor's mobile app (includes hosting).
- Editing: Audacity, GarageBand, Descript (free tier limited).
- Hosting & Distribution: Anchor (by Spotify) is the leading truly free option (hosting, distribution, basic creation tools). RSS.com has a limited free tier.
Limitations: Free plans are great for getting started, but often come with limitations like limited branding, analytics, and monetization features. One of the biggest limitations is your microphone: most people don’t realize how much background noise and echo their room naturally has, which can hurt audio quality.
How Much Does It Cost to Start a Podcast? (Free vs. Paid Breakdown)
Costs vary wildly. Here's a realistic 2025 snapshot:
| Component | Free/DIY Route | Essential Paid Route (Good Quality) | Pro/Video Route |
| Microphone | Smartphone/Earbuds ($0) | USB/XLR Mic ($50-$150 - NearStream VM20) | XLR Mic + Interface ($200-$400+) |
| Headphones | Existing Earbuds ($0) | Closed-Back ($50-$100 - Audio-Technica M20x) | Higher-End ($100-$250) |
| Camera (Video) | Smartphone/Laptop Webcam ($0) | Basic Webcam ($50-$100) | 4K Streaming Camera NearStream VM20 ($200-$2000+) |
| Lighting (Video) | Natural Light ($0) | Basic Ring Light/Softbox ($30-$80) | 2-3 Point Lighting Kit ($100-$300) |
| Recording Software | Audacity/Anchor App ($0) | Riverside/SquadCast Starter ($15-$25/mo) | Riverside Pro/SquadCast Pro ($25-$50+/mo) |
| Editing Software | Audacity/GarageBand ($0) | Descript Pro ($15/mo) / Hindenburg ($10/mo) | Adobe Audition/Premiere Pro ($21+/mo) |
| Hosting | Anchor/RSS.com Free ($0) | Paid Hosting ($12-$25/mo - Buzzsprout) | Higher Tier Hosting ($25-$50+/mo) |
| Music/SFX | Free Libraries ($0) | Single Subscription ($10-$15/mo - Epidemic) | Multiple Libraries |
| Artwork | Canva Free ($0) | Canva Pro/Fiverr ($12+/one-off) | Professional Designer ($100-$500+) |
| TOTAL (Startup) | $0 -$20 | ~$150 - $500+ | $1,000 -$3,000+ |
| TOTAL (Monthly) | $0 | ~$25 - $60 | $60 -$150+ |
How to Start a Podcast with No Audience (Growth Hacking 101)
Launching into the void? Focus on these:
- Leverage Existing Networks: Tell friends, family, colleagues, social media contacts. Ask them to share.
- Be a Guest First: Appear on established podcasts in your niche. Offer value.
- SEO Your Show Notes: Optimize titles and descriptions for search engines and podcast apps.
- Engage on Social Media (Strategically): Don't just post "Listen!" Share valuable snippets (audiograms/video clips using Headliner or CapCut), behind-the-scenes, ask questions. Target platforms where your audience lives (LinkedIn for B2B, TikTok/Instagram Reels for younger demos, YouTube for video).
- Collaborate: Partner with complementary creators or brands.
- Consistency is King: Release episodes on a reliable schedule (weekly, bi-weekly).
- Ask for Reviews/Ratings: Politely ask listeners in episodes. Helps directory algorithms.
- Run Targeted Ads (Small Budget): Use podcast ad platforms (Overcast, Podcast Addict) or social media ads targeting your niche.
How to Monetize Your Podcast
Success = Value + Consistency + Audience Building. Monetization follows:
- Build Value First: Focus on serving your audience before selling.
- Reach Monetization Thresholds: Most ad networks need 1k-5k+ downloads/episode within 30 days. Focus on growth first.
- Diversify Income Streams:
- Sponsorships/Ads: (Once established) Use marketplaces like Podcorn, Audioboom, or direct sales.
- Listener Support: Patreon, Buy Me a Coffee, Supercast (memberships, bonus content).
- Affiliate Marketing: Promote relevant products/services (Amazon, niche affiliates).
- Sell Your Own Products/Services: Courses, coaching, consulting, merchandise.
- Premium Content: Exclusive episodes, early access, ad-free feeds.
- Live Events/Virtual Summits: (With a strong community).
- Track & Analyze: Use your host's analytics to understand listeners and what works.
FAQ
Q1: How much does it cost to start a podcast if I want professional quality from day one?
A: For pro-level sound and video, expect to invest $500–$2,000+ upfront—this includes an XLR mic, audio interface, quality headphones, lighting, and a good camera. Monthly software and hosting can add another $50–$150.
Q2: What’s the ideal podcasting setup for recording with multiple people in one room?
A: You’ll need multiple XLR microphones, a multi-input audio interface or mixer (like the Rodecaster Pro II), and headphones for each person. Consider a roundtable layout with some acoustic treatment to reduce echo.
Q3: Do I need a separate podcasting setup for remote interviews?
A: Not necessarily. You can use the same mic and headphones, but you’ll need remote recording tools like Riverside.fm or SquadCast. Encourage your guest to use earbuds and record in a quiet space for better quality.
Q4: Can I record a podcast on my phone and still sound professional?
A: Yes—if you use a good external mic (like NearStream VM20) and record in a quiet, padded room. Some editing in post-production can also significantly improve audio quality.
Q5: How long does it take to plan and launch a podcast?
A: If you’re focused, you can plan and launch within 2–4 weeks. This includes choosing your niche, branding, recording your first episodes, and submitting to directories.
Q6: Should I script my podcast episodes or just freestyle?
A: It depends on your style, but most podcasters benefit from having at least a loose outline. Scripting intros and outros helps you stay consistent and sound more polished.
