Podcasting Made Simple: The Step by Step Guide on How to Start a Successful Podcast from the Ground up

by Daniel Larson

‘The medium of podcasting and the personal nature of it, the relationship you build with your listeners and the relationship they have with you - they could be just sitting there, chuckling and listening... there's nothing like that’ - Marc Maron Podcasting is the expressional medium with therapeutic value we’ve been missing in our lives for decades. Luckily, popularity has been growing exponentially over the last few years - did you know the number of Americans who are weekly podcast listeners over the last 7 years has tripled? Let alone a 24% increase in the UK from 2018-2019. Although there’s never been a better time to get into podcasting, with all the contradicting and often false information scattered all over the internet, it’s no wonder why so many people often struggle to find a starting point when there’s so many conflicting views on what the best quality equipment is, what launch strategy should be used, and even editing. In fact, it can even create the illusion that starting a podcast is a daunting and time-consuming process. You might be reluctant to commit to something you lack both knowledge and experience in or you’re worried that when you do make that leap there’ll be no one on the other side listening? Maybe you’re skeptical of whether you’ll be able to get guests on as a newbie with no name to yourself. In Podcasting Made Simple you will This digestible guide is made for people who have no experience, so yes, this will work for you even if you’ve never spoken into a microphone. Even if you’re not a technology guru, and have no presence on social media. Even if you have an extremely busy schedule and a low budget. Even if you think your content ideas are absolutely absurd and no one will listen. Even if there are thousands of podcasts similar to yours already published, and you have no marketing experience.

Genres: Nonfiction

182 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 27, 2020

Reviews

[Connor Sams · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book helped ignite a long time passion by taking a daunting task, make it relatable in an easy to understand guide. I can't wait to get started on a new project.

[Shantanu Patnaik · Rating 3 out of 5]

Does a solid job covering the basics of starting a podcast - especially when it comes to planning, content ideas, and simple workflows that make the process less intimidating for beginners. Actionable suggestions certainly helped me clarify my own podcasting routine.

However, I found the sections on podcast growth and marketing strategies less useful. The emphasis on SEO and broad digital tactics felt generic and a bit out of touch with how niche podcasts actually build loyal audiences, especially in vibrant markets like India. The marketing advice seemed suited to bigger shows with teams and budgets, rather than indie creators trying to grow authentically.

Overall, it’s a decent guide for podcast foundations, but falls short if you’re seeking fresh, relatable advice on sustainable audience growth. I’m giving it 3 stars for getting the basics right, but I will have to look elsewhere for practical marketing insights.

[Lucas Quinn K. · Rating 3 out of 5]

La ideas y consejos que recomienda este libro no son sólo para un periodista, sino, para cualquier persona que le gustaría aprender y comenzar en el mundo del podcast. Da bueno consejos y no sólo sobre cómo hacer un podcast, también recomienda herramientas y estrategias para llevarlo a cabo. Por ejemplo: programas (gratuitos y pagados) de edición, qué micrófono ocupar, dónde y cómo subirlo a plataformas, que no hacer, junto a varias cosas más.

Pero, lejos lo mejor que recomienda este libro, es: comenzar. No hay que pensarlo tanto. Hay que comenzar a grabar y editar. Así de simple. Eso es lo que más incentiva el libro.

Frase favorita: "An excellent way to quickly get over the fear of sounding silly, or the discomfort that leads to you keeping your voice small, is to truly talk about something you are passionate about".

[Elise (elise reads & writes) · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Necessary Basics

This book was helpful in outlining the basic necessities of creating a long lasting, successful podcast. All of the information was relevant and concise, although there were a few things repeated consistently throughout the book. Be passionate. I loved that passion and genuineness was stressed in this book, because I see so many people running towards media with one thing in mind - money. Thanks for an insightful book! I look forward to reading your others.

[Pamela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very Helpful Read

I was looking for an introductory type book to help get my husband and I started with our podcast. I stumbled across “Podcasting Made Simple” and so glad I did. Mr. Larson writes in a very easy to read and understandable step-by-step format. I feel as though I can jump in and get started right away and follow his instructional advice along the way. I will definitely be reading this book again and taking notes.

[Jim Hardison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lots of great information

This book was packed with great information on starting a podcast–from what to podcast about, to what equipment to use, to how to structure your content, to how to monetize the result. It can get a little long-winded here and there, but I found it useful and practical.

[Jerry Floros · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book covers it all !

Great book and easy read on podcasting, how to get started and ultimately succeed. Not only explaining the basics but also the essentials such as being passionate about your podcast that’s infused with energy and a powerful voice. And the secret to podcasting success is being genuinely connected and appreciative of your audience. Excellent and highly recommended !

[Adam Gullett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read! Does what that title says. Makes setting up and running a podcast simpke. Whenever I go to start something new I begin by researching the fire out of it. Well sometimes all that research turns into procrastination of actually getting started. I then begin to overthink it. This book simplifies the process and encourages you to just get started. It's a quick read as well.

[Eric · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great overview, but Kindle version needs work

I found this book straight to the point and light on the fluff. The only problem I had, was the Kindle version repeated chapter 6 content into chapter 7. I had to get a print version to get that information. Other than that, a good, informative quick read.

[Hayley (Strange & Unusual Book Club) · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read the edition that is in Podcasting for Beginners. The information is helpful and concise. I did notice that one chapter was printed twice in that edition. Larson's advice is helpful overall but I don't think I'll be publishing 3 episodes of my podcast on launch day or doing 3 a week after. That sounds like a fast track to burnout.

[Anne Padgett · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good Introduction to the Business

Purchased for my son. The book lays out exactly how you get started creating quality content and what it takes to become professional and profitable.

[Greg Adaka · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was very informative and an easy read. I listened to the Audible edition. Had all the basic principles to get one started on a podcast, including ways to make money from your podcast. I've never podcasted, but I'm a speaker. The author makes it look very achievable.

[Steve Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Information

I was feeling overwhelmed about starting my podcast because I wasn’t sure how to get started. This book has laid out the principles of how to have a successful podcast.

[Greg Dixon · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fabulous primer on Podcasting!

Daniel provides excellent advice for thriving as podcaster, including mechanics, strategies, sponsorship, and marketing. Just what I needed!
Highly recommended.

[Nancy Chambers · Rating 3 out of 5]

Book seems straight forward. However I’m in my 80s so I may have to do more research. A younger person will probably understand the terminology better than me, but the book was helpful, and I will use it.

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blueprint for Podcasting

This book is a concise guide for creating and maintaining a podcast. Mr. Larson provides outlines to follow with references and resources to review.

[Becky (curious becks) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great quick and easy read

I’m just embarking on my podcast journey and reading this book has helped validate my approach so far and shape my thinking about parts of the process I was more unsure of

[Timo · Rating 5 out of 5]

The most practical guide for making a podcast. You basically don’t have any excuses after reading it to finally launch a podcast. If you have a topic which you are passionate about.

[Teresa · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book does what it says on the tin. It’s simple and straight to the point. However there were a few spelling mistakes, chapter 6 content was repeated word for word and chapter 7 was missing.

[Kmore13 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Solid. Some good ideas, practical tips and easy to follow.

[Mauro Cervantes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks Daniel for all the information. Gave us a lot of confident to start. Although I think the Coca-Cola bear are polar bears and not Pandas....😅