Podcast Creation Resources
Editing Software (open source whenever possible)
Chrome audio capture (this is the single most important app for getting archival audio)
Audacity (free editing software)
LameXP encoder (open source, converts .m4a files to .mp3 files, useful for voice memos)
Garage Band (included on all Apple computers)
Anchor (free recording, editing and hosting for Apple and Android phones)
Soundtrap for Storytellers (paid cloud-based editing studio with educational plans)
Music and sound effects (free!)
Gear
A smartphone and a computer (really! the mic on a smartphone will be great, and it’s all you need — that said, you want to get a little fancy?)
Zoom mic for iPhone
Saramonic Smartmic for Android
Recording Apps
Voice Memo (iPhone)
Smart Recorder (Android)
The process!
This is what it looks like for US, but the process for YOU can be as simple as “grab a mic, ramble into it and then make something out of it.” Podcasting is just another way to communicate with the world, with low low barriers and infinite options.
“The pitch” — brainstorming ideas, figuring out the story before you record, deciding what format you want the podcast to take.
Research, reporting and interviews — figure out what questions you want to ask in an interview or what subjects you want to talk about during a recording.
Script/plan — podcasting can be a major writing exercise, too! We write down everything that we’re going to say before we “track,” aka narrate, our show. Then we offer each other edits within the script itself (here’s an example of draft 2 of our census episode) If you’re going with a panel show approach, have an outline of what you’re planning to cover so that things don’t go off the rails.
Tracking — open that voice memo or smart recorder app and get yourself on tape! A super easy trick for blocking out background noise? Record yourself and your colleagues underneath a blanket. Even the pros do this in a pinch!
Assembling — make your podcast! Import the audio, find your favorite music beds and sound effects and piece together your story.
Lost? You can find loads of information at Transom, at KQED Teach, NPR and Google+PRX. You can also check out this comprehensive Audacity tutorial.