How to Start a Podcast (Beginner to Pro Tips)

How to start a podcast on this Tech Tuesday episode 184 with tips on equipment, mobile setups, content strategy, and growing your audience. Produced by DW Video

In this episode, host Duane Weed, DW Video is joined by Steven Rainwater from Business Growth Engine to talk about how to get started in podcasting:

If you’ve ever thought about starting your own podcast, this episode of the Discover Montcalm Podcast is your roadmap.

In this Tech Tuesdays segment, host Duane Weed sits down with Steven from Business Growth Engine to break down everything you need to know—from choosing your format to selecting equipment and staying consistent.

How to Start a Podcast – Start with Your Content

Before you buy gear or download software, focus on your message. What are you passionate about? Whether it’s local business, auto repair, or community stories in Montcalm County, authenticity wins every time.

Your podcast should:

• Be real and conversational
• Focus on topics you enjoy
• Provide value to your audience

How to start a podcast – In-Person vs. Mobile Podcasting

There are two main approaches:

In-Person Studio Podcast

• Professional look and feel
• Better control over lighting and audio
• Great for interviews and consistency

Mobile Podcast Setup

• Flexible and portable
• Ideal for on-location content (business tours, events)
• Lower startup cost

Both options can produce high-quality results—it depends on your workflow and goals.

How to Start a Podcast – Equipment: Keep It Simple

You don’t need a full studio to start.

Beginner setup:

• Smartphone or tablet
• Clip-on wireless microphones
• Basic tripod or stand

Advanced setup:

• DSLR or mirrorless cameras
• Switcher (like ATEM Mini)
• External microphones (Rode, etc.)

Key takeaway: Audio matters more than video. If people can’t hear you, they won’t stay.

How to Start a Podcast – Software & Tools

• OBS – Free recording/streaming software
• CapCut / DaVinci Resolve – Editing tools
• Blubrry  – Podcast hosting platforms

Start with free tools and upgrade as you grow.

How to Start a Podcast – Stay Consistent

One of the biggest mistakes beginners make is inconsistency.

Tips:

• Start with 1 episode per month
• Build a backlog (4–10 episodes before launch)
• Gradually increase frequency

Consistency builds trust and audience growth.

Bonus Tip: Use AI & Search Data

Use tools like AI or Google search suggestions to discover what people are searching for. This helps your podcast get found on YouTube and Google.

How to Start a Podcast – Final Thoughts

Podcasting is one of the most powerful tools for building your brand—especially in a local market like Montcalm County.  Start simple. Stay consistent. Be authentic.  And if you need help, both Duane and Steven are available to guide you—or even help you produce your show.

Watch the Full Episode

This episode is especially helpful to watch on YouTube where screen examples are shown.

Find Discover Montcalm Podcast on:

• YouTube
• Facebook
• Instagram
• Apple Podcasts
• Pandora
• iHeart

Need Help With Video or Marketing?

Call Duane Weed: 231-250-9624
Visit: DWVideo.com

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Discover Montcalm is powered by the friends of the podcast

This growth didn’t happen alone.

Special thanks to:

• West Michigan Technology and Design Solutions
• WGLM 106.3 FM
• DW Video
• Business Growth Engine
• BluBrry Podcast Platform

Together, we are building something bigger than a podcast—we are building a community.

Check out Tech Tuesdays Opus Pro episode.

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What’s New in 2026

We’re not slowing down—we’re expanding.

On-Location Podcasting

We now bring the podcast to your business, capturing your story in your environment.

Chatting Local Segments

Expanding beyond Montcalm County—while keeping our local roots strong.

Tech Tuesdays

Practical insights on:

• SEO
• Podcasting
• AI tools
• Digital growth strategies

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Your Story is the Fuel

When you sit down on the Discover Montcalm Podcast, you’re not just promoting your organization.

You’re:

• Strengthening the community
• Expanding local reach
• Creating lasting digital content
• Helping Montcalm County grow

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Discover Montcalm Podcast
Produced by Duane Weed of DW Video & Multimedia LLC
Celebrating over 40 years of storytelling and media production in Montcalm County.

Contact
Call 231-250-9624

Duane Weed at 231-250-9624 or duane@dwvideo.com. Together, let’s showcase the heart of Montcalm County, one story at a time.

Check out this video!