So you're thinking about starting a podcast. It's been on your mind. What are you waiting for? Here are three things I tell every client who walks into the studio before they hit record for the first time.
Tip 1: Make Sure Your Show Name Is Available
You've got that fabulous name in your head — the one that feels perfect for your show. Before you get too attached to it, go check if it already exists. Great minds think alike, and there's a real chance someone else had the same idea. Search for your name on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and any other platform you're planning to use. If it's taken, it's better to find out now than after you've built your brand around it.
Once you've confirmed the name is available, you're ready for step two.
Tip 2: Secure the Domain Name
Just because your show name isn't taken on the podcast platforms doesn't mean you're in the clear. You also need to check whether the domain name is available — that's the www address for your show's website.
With 20 years in digital, this is something I feel strongly about: own your intellectual property. That means purchasing both the .com and the .ca (especially if you're based in Canada). Build your podcast platform on the .com and redirect the .ca to it. That way, nobody can come along and do something with your brand name while you're busy building it.
You're not just starting a podcast — you're building a brand. Protect it from day one.
Tip 3: Choose Your Distribution Platform
Now you need to decide where your show will live and how it gets distributed to listeners. There are plenty of platforms out there — Podbean, Buzzsprout, RedCircle, Libsyn, and more — and while many of them offer similar core features, they each have their strengths.
Some platforms are known for their analytics. Others specialize in monetization and advertising tools. Some have strong communities in specific niches. Do your research and find the one that aligns with your goals and the type of show you're creating.
One angle worth considering: if your type of show is underrepresented on a platform, that platform may put more effort into supporting and promoting content like yours. Think about where you'll stand out, not just where everyone else already is.
Ready to Get Your Show Started?
These three steps — locking in your name, securing your domain, and choosing your distribution platform — are the foundation every podcast needs before anything else. Get these right and you'll be set up to build something that lasts.
When you're ready to record, we're here. Explore our Podcast & Content Recording Packages or book a room at our Whitby or Brampton studio. Let's get your show started.