How to Start a Podcast in Australia for Beginners

Launching a podcast is a journey with four distinct phases: first, you nail down your concept, then you pick your gear, next comes recording and editing, and finally, you get it out into the world. But before you even glance at a microphone, the real work begins with a crystal-clear idea and a specific listener in mind. Getting this foundation right is what separates a flash-in-the-pan hobby from a show that genuinely connects and endures.

Finding Your Niche and Defining Your Podcast

Before you hit record, the most important work is done on paper (or a doc). A killer concept is the bedrock of any great podcast. It influences every decision you’ll make, from the stories you tell and the format you choose, right through to how you’ll find your first listeners. Without a sharp focus, even the most polished show will struggle to find its audience.

The secret is to drill down past the big, generic topics to find a unique, specific angle. For instance, instead of another vague "business podcast," think about something like "side hustles for Aussie tradies" or "stories from first-time female founders in Melbourne's tech scene." That kind of specificity makes your show instantly memorable and much easier for people to recommend.

Pinpoint Your Unique Angle

The podcasting space might feel crowded, but there's always an opening for a fresh voice. Your unique angle sits at the crossroads of three things: what you're passionate about, what you know well, and what's missing from the market. Your passion is your fuel—it'll keep you going when motivation dips. Your expertise is what gives you credibility.

This is where a bit of detective work pays off. Jump onto Apple Podcasts and Spotify and have a good search for shows in your potential niche. Listen to a few episodes and start asking questions:

• What are they doing really well that I can learn from?

• What topics or points of view are they completely missing?

• Is there a group of people within this bigger category who aren't being served?

Answering these questions helps you carve out a space that's genuinely yours, not just a carbon copy of something that already exists. The Aussie podcast market is absolutely humming; in 2022, audiences downloaded a staggering 755 million episodes, with health, fitness, and true crime exploding in popularity. This incredible demand is a huge green light for new creators who can spot and serve a dedicated listener base. It’s worth a look at the latest Australian podcast trends to find your opening.

Who Are You Talking To?

Once you’ve found your niche, you need to get laser-focused on who you're talking to. The best way to do this is by creating a detailed listener persona. This isn't just a vague idea; you're essentially creating a profile of your ideal listener. Give them a name, an age, a job, and most importantly, what keeps them up at night.

For example, if your podcast is about sustainable living in Aussie cities, your persona might be "Eco-Conscious Chloe." She's a 32-year-old graphic designer in Sydney who desperately wants to reduce her carbon footprint but feels totally overwhelmed by all the conflicting advice out there.

Knowing Chloe inside and out helps you shape everything—your episode topics, your tone of voice, even your titles—to directly answer her questions and solve her problems.

A well-defined listener persona is your compass. Every time you plan an episode, just ask yourself: "What would Chloe want to know about this?" It keeps your content focused, relevant, and genuinely valuable.

This simple decision tree can help you visualise how to narrow your focus from a broad passion down to a specific, viable show concept.

As you can see, a strong podcast idea isn't just about what you love talking about. It has to be tested against real audience demand and what's already out there. Taking this structured approach stops you from pouring your heart and soul into a project that isn't built to last, guiding you toward a concept with genuine potential for growth.

Selecting the Right Gear and Software

Let's be honest, great audio is non-negotiable in the world of podcasting. It’s the one thing that can make a listener hit subscribe or bounce within the first 30 seconds. The good news? You don’t need a Hollywood-sized budget to sound professional. It's all about making smart choices with your gear and software right from the start.

I know the technical side of things can feel a bit overwhelming, but it really just boils down to a few key decisions. You’ll need to pick a microphone, some essential accessories, and the software you'll use to put it all together. My advice is always to start simple. You can always upgrade your kit as your podcast grows and your ambitions get bigger.

Choosing Your First Microphone

Your microphone is hands down the most important piece of gear in your podcasting kit. For beginners, there are really two main paths you can take: USB microphones, which are wonderfully straightforward, and XLR microphones, which offer that next-level professional quality but need a little more equipment.

• USB Microphones: These are the go-to for most people starting out. Mics like the famous Blue Yeti or the versatile Samson Q2U plug directly into your computer's USB port. It genuinely is plug-and-play, making them perfect for solo hosts or anyone just dipping their toes into audio recording.

• XLR Microphones: This is the industry standard for professional audio. XLR mics connect to your computer through an audio interface or a mixer. While the setup is a bit more involved (and costs a bit more), it delivers noticeably better sound quality. It also gives you the flexibility to record multiple people in the same room, each on their own track, which is a massive plus. Upgrading to an XLR setup is a natural next step once you know you’re in this for the long haul.

Whichever type you choose, a couple of small accessories can make a huge difference. A pop filter is a cheap little screen that sits in front of your mic to soften those harsh 'p' and 'b' sounds (we call them plosives). And a good pair of headphones is a must for monitoring your sound as you record, helping you catch annoying background noises in real time.

For a deeper dive into specific models and setups, we've put together a complete guide on [podcast equipment for beginners](https://www.thatcreativehub.au/post/podcast-equipment-for-beginners-your-starter-guide).

Recording and Editing Software

Once your hardware is sorted, you need software to capture and polish your audio. You'll be happy to hear that some of the best tools to get you started are completely free.

Free Software Options:

• Audacity: A true workhorse. This is a powerful, open-source audio editor that works on Mac, Windows, and Linux. The interface might look a little dated, but don't let that fool you—it has all the features you need to produce a great-sounding podcast.

• GarageBand: If you're a Mac user, you're in luck. GarageBand comes pre-installed on your computer and is famous for its intuitive design. It's a fantastic, user-friendly place to start recording and editing.

Investing in paid software makes sense when your workflow gets more complex or you simply want to save time. Tools like Descript or Adobe Audition offer advanced features that can seriously speed up your editing once you're ready for them.

Platforms for Remote Interviews

So, what happens when your co-host or guest is on the other side of the country? Recording interviews over the internet is standard practice now, and specialised platforms have made capturing high-quality remote chats easier than ever. While you might be tempted to use something familiar like Zoom, its audio is often compressed and just isn't ideal for a polished podcast.

This is where dedicated remote recording software becomes a real game-changer.

Platform	Best For	Key Feature
Riverside.fm	Video & Audio Podcasts	Records separate, high-quality local tracks for each person, ensuring audio is crisp regardless of internet connection.
Zencastr	Audio-First Podcasts	A long-standing favourite for its simplicity and reliable local audio recording, with a generous free plan.

These platforms cleverly record each person’s audio directly on their own computer before uploading it. This little trick bypasses the glitches and dropouts you often get with standard video call apps. The end result is an interview that sounds like everyone was sitting together in the same professional studio—crucial for giving your audience a top-notch listening experience.

Recording and Editing Your First Episodes

Alright, this is the moment all that planning and gear-wrangling was for. Recording your first few episodes is when your podcast stops being an idea and starts becoming a real, tangible thing. It doesn't matter if you're surrounded by blankets in a makeshift home studio or sitting in a professional booth—the mission is always the same: capture clean, compelling audio.

Your first job is to get your recording environment right. You don't need a perfectly soundproofed room, but you do need to kill as much echo and background noise as you can. Soft surfaces are your secret weapon here. Think rooms with carpets, curtains, bookshelves, and couches.

There's a reason a walk-in wardrobe full of clothes is the classic DIY recording booth. All that fabric just soaks up sound waves beautifully. The goal is to minimise hard, flat surfaces where sound can bounce around and create that nasty echo or reverb that screams "amateur".

Simple Microphone Techniques for Clear Audio

How you use your microphone is often more important than the mic itself. Honestly, even a top-of-the-line mic will sound awful if your technique is off. What you're aiming for is that sweet spot where your voice sounds rich and clear without picking up every little breath and pop.

Here are a few practical tips to get your mic technique sorted:

• Find Your Distance: As a rule of thumb, place your mouth about a hand's width (10-15 cm) away from the microphone. Get too close, and you'll get that boomy, bass-heavy "radio DJ" sound. Too far, and you'll sound thin and distant.

• Speak Off-Axis: This is a pro-level trick that's incredibly simple. Instead of speaking directly into the microphone's grill, position it slightly off to the side and angle it towards your mouth. This stops the harsh popping sounds (known as plosives) from letters like 'P' and 'B' from hitting the mic’s diaphragm head-on.

• Maintain Consistent Volume: Try to speak at a steady, conversational level. If you suddenly shout or drop to a whisper, it can be really jarring for the listener and creates a lot of extra work for you in the edit.

A comfortable recording space is absolutely vital, especially if you're doing interviews. When a guest feels relaxed, you get a far more natural and engaging conversation. Offer them a glass of water, walk them through the process, and let them know that any slip-ups can easily be tidied up later.

Streamlining Production in a Professional Space

While a home setup can absolutely work, stepping into a professional space can fast-track your learning curve and give you broadcast-quality sound from day one. It takes all the technical stress and guesswork out of the equation, so you can focus purely on creating great content.

For podcast users, we offer a fully-equipped, ever-evolving set with a dedicated production manager on-site. Whether you’re filming an interview, a solo series, or a branded piece of content, we can help set the vibe and adjust the layout to suit your vision. The set is flexible, the gear is high-quality, and the support is here if you need it. You can see how a pro setup can help by exploring our [Melbourne podcast studio](https://www.thatcreativehub.au/podcaststudio).

The real value of a professional studio isn't just the gear—it's the built-in expertise. Need help? Just ask. We act as a concierge service for creators, linking you with the right people and tools to bring your vision to life. From photographers to editors, lighting setups to sound checks — we’ve got you.

The Editing Process Demystified

Editing is where the real magic happens. This is where you polish your raw audio into a cohesive, professional-sounding episode. For anyone just starting out, my biggest piece of advice is to keep it simple. Don't get lost in the weeds trying to make every single second perfect.

Start with a 'broad strokes' edit. Listen through the whole recording and just cut out the big mistakes, false starts, or painfully long pauses. This first pass is all about shaping the core story of your episode.

Once the basic structure is solid, you can zoom in on the finer details. This is when you'll snip out the distracting filler words like 'ums' and 'ahs', balance the audio levels between you and your guests, and seamlessly fade in your intro and outro music. With a bit of practice, you’ll find a rhythm that makes this whole process feel surprisingly quick and efficient.

How to Publish and Distribute Your Podcast

Right, so your first episode is finally edited, polished, and ready to go. This is a huge milestone, but it also brings up a question that trips up so many new podcasters: how do you actually get your show from your computer into people's ears?

It all comes down to two things: a podcast host and listening directories.

Think of a podcast hosting service as the dedicated home for your audio files. It's not just a storage locker; it's a specialised service that securely holds your MP3s and, crucially, generates a unique RSS feed for your show. This RSS feed is the magic key that makes everything work, containing all the metadata for your podcast—your title, artwork, episode descriptions, and the audio files themselves.

Listening directories like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts don't actually store your audio. Instead, they simply read your RSS feed and use that information to display your episodes to their millions of users. Your job is to get that feed into their systems.

Choosing Your Podcast Host

Picking the right hosting platform is one of the biggest technical decisions you'll make, so it’s worth a bit of thought. A good host does more than just store your files reliably. It should give you listener analytics, a simple webpage for your show, and easy tools to submit your podcast to all the major directories.

When you're starting out, you don't need the flashiest, most expensive plan. What you do need is a platform that’s reliable and easy to wrap your head around. Some are built specifically for beginners, guiding you through every step. Others are geared towards seasoned creators with deep analytics and monetisation features.

Here’s a quick look at some of the most popular options for Australian podcasters.

Top Podcast Hosting Platforms for Australians

Choosing a host can feel overwhelming, but most platforms today are designed to make the process as painless as possible. This table breaks down a few excellent choices based on what you might be looking for as a new creator.

Hosting Platform	Key Feature	Starting Price (AUD)	Best For
[Buzzsprout](https://www.buzzsprout.com/)	User-friendly interface and great educational resources.	~$18/month (for 3 hours)	Beginners who want a simple, guided experience.
[Libsyn](https://libsyn.com/)	A long-standing, highly reliable industry veteran.	~$8/month (for 162MB)	Creators who prioritise dependability and established systems.
[Transistor.fm](https://transistor.fm/)	Excellent for managing multiple shows from one account.	~$29/month	Podcasters planning to launch more than one show.
[Podbean](https://www.podbean.com/)	Offers a free plan with some limitations.	Free tier available	Hobbyists or those wanting to test the waters with no initial cost.

After weighing your options, just pick the one that feels right for your budget and technical comfort level. Once you’ve signed up, you’ll just need to fill in your podcast details (title, description, category), upload your cover art, and then upload that first polished episode.

Submitting to Podcast Directories

With your first episode uploaded and your RSS feed in hand, you get to the most satisfying part: making your show public. The best bit? You only have to submit your RSS feed to each directory once. From then on, every new episode you upload to your host will automatically pop up everywhere your show is listed.

Here’s the general game plan for the big players:

• Apple Podcasts: This is a non-negotiable. You’ll need an Apple Podcasts Connect account. You submit your RSS feed and then wait for a quick human review, which usually takes a day or two.

• Spotify: As the heavyweight directory, responsible for 34.4% of all downloads, you absolutely have to be here. Submission is often automated directly through your hosting provider's dashboard and is usually instant.

• Google Podcasts: Getting listed here is also a simple, automated process where you just need to verify that you own the RSS feed.

Pro Tip: Don't just stop at the big three. Take the extra 15 minutes to submit your show to other popular directories like Amazon Music, TuneIn, and Podcast Index. The more places your podcast is available, the easier it is for new listeners to find you.

Crafting Compelling Show Notes and Titles

In a podcast app, your episode title and show notes are your best marketing tools. A punchy title can make someone stop scrolling, and great show notes give them every reason to press play.

Your episode title needs to be both descriptive and intriguing. A generic title like "Episode 4" tells a potential listener nothing. Something like "How to Budget for Your First Home in Sydney" is far more compelling.

Think of your show notes—the description that accompanies each episode—as your episode's home base. They should always include:

• A short, engaging summary of what you talk about.

• Links to any resources, articles, or products you mentioned.

• Contact details or social media links for any guests.

• A clear call-to-action, like asking people to subscribe or leave a review.

Finally, get into a consistent publishing schedule. Whether it's weekly, fortnightly, or monthly, sticking to a predictable routine is how you train your audience to come back for more. It's the simplest way to start building a loyal following.

Right, you’ve done the hard work and your podcast is officially out in the wild. That’s a huge milestone, but hitting ‘publish’ is really just the beginning of the journey. Now comes the fun part: getting people to actually listen.

The great news is you don’t need a massive marketing budget to find an audience. It’s all about being smart, consistent, and a little creative to turn those first few downloads into a loyal community.

Your first listeners are pure gold. They’re the ones who will leave those all-important first reviews, share the show with their friends, and give you the feedback you need to get better. Let's look at how to find more of them.

Create a Community Hub on Social Media

Think of social media as more than just a place to dump a link to your latest episode. It’s your chance to build a real community where listeners can connect with the person behind the mic. Give them a reason to follow along.

One of the best ways to do this is with an audiogram. This is just a short, snappy audio clip from your episode, packaged up as a video with your podcast artwork and a moving waveform. They are designed to stop the scroll, offering a tempting little taste of what your show is all about.

But don't stop there. Pull back the curtain and share some behind-the-scenes content to make your followers feel like insiders:

• Snap a photo of your recording space. People are genuinely curious, even if it’s just a corner of your bedroom.

• Share short video clips. Post a funny outtake, a powerful quote from a guest, or a quick thought that didn't make the final cut.

• Ask your audience questions. Use polls to see what topics they want to hear next. Get them involved.

This turns your social media from a one-way announcement board into a lively hub for your listeners. It’s a two-way street that builds real loyalty and keeps your show on their radar between episodes.

Tap into Other People's Audiences

One of the fastest ways to grow is to get in front of an audience that someone else has already built. Collaborating with other creators in your niche is a seriously effective way to reach new people who are already primed to like what you do.

Start by thinking about what other podcasts your ideal listener is probably subscribed to. They don't have to be the biggest shows on the charts; in fact, teaming up with shows of a similar size can often lead to the best results. Make a list, follow them, and start engaging with their content long before you even think about asking for anything.

Being a guest on other podcasts is probably the single most powerful marketing move for a new podcaster. It puts your voice directly into the ears of a qualified audience, with an implied endorsement from a host they already know and trust.

When you’re ready to reach out, make your pitch personal. Show you’ve actually listened. Mention a specific episode you enjoyed and clearly explain the value you could bring to their listeners.

Instead of a generic, "I'd love to be on your podcast," try something more specific: "I really enjoyed your episode on sustainable living. I've been experimenting with urban composting and have some practical tips I think your audience would find super useful."

Fuel Your Growth with Ratings and Reviews

Those stars and comments on Apple Podcasts and Spotify aren't just for your ego—they are vital social proof. When someone new discovers your show, a healthy number of positive reviews can be the thing that convinces them to give it a listen.

Reviews also act as a signal to the podcast directories that people are engaging with your show, which can help you get discovered more easily.

Get into the habit of adding a clear call-to-action (CTA) at the end of every episode. But don't just say, "please rate and review." Explain why it matters. Try something like, "If you got something out of this episode, the best way to support the show is to leave a quick rating on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. It genuinely helps new listeners find us."

Use Your Data to Make Smarter Moves

Once your show gets a bit of traction, your podcast host will give you access to a goldmine of listener data. Don't let it sit there. These analytics are your roadmap to creating better content.

The modern Australian podcast scene is absolutely booming. Since 2018, the number of Australians tuning into online audio each month has jumped by almost 50%, now sitting at 78% of the population. This growth, driven by everything from smart speakers to connected cars, has created an exciting but crowded market. Understanding your audience is what will make you stand out. You can read more about the growth of Australian audio consumption to get the full picture.

Keep a close eye on these key metrics:

• Downloads per episode: Which topics are clear winners? Do more of that.

• Listener demographics: Who's listening and where are they from?

• Audience drop-off: Are people bailing at a certain point in your episodes? This is crucial feedback.

You can also check resources like the Australian Podcast Ranker to see what's trending locally. By digging into this data, you can stop guessing and start making informed decisions to give your growing audience exactly what they want.

Your Top Podcasting Questions, Answered

Jumping into the world of podcasting is an incredible feeling, but let’s be honest—it also brings up a lot of questions. It's totally normal to feel a bit swamped by all the moving parts. We get asked these questions all the time, so we've put together some straight-up answers to help you cut through the noise and start building momentum.

Think of this as your cheat sheet for sidestepping those early-day hurdles.

How Long Does It Take to Grow an Audience?

This is the million-dollar question, isn't it? The most honest answer I can give you is this: it depends. Building a real, dedicated audience is a marathon, not a sprint. We all see those flashy headlines about shows going viral overnight, but for most of us, it’s a slow and steady climb. Don't get disheartened if you're not seeing thousands of downloads in your first month.

A much better benchmark for success is focusing on consistent, gradual growth. If you can gather 50-100 loyal listeners in your first couple of months, you're actually doing brilliantly. These are the people who will become your core supporters and help spread the word. Real growth comes from showing up consistently with great content and smart promotion over many months, not just a few weeks.

And the audience is definitely out there. The Australian podcast scene is booming—as of mid-2025, a staggering 52% of Australians are tuning into podcasts every month. To tap into this, you need to play in the professional leagues. That means using tools that align with industry standards like the Australian Podcast Ranker, which ensures your download numbers are transparent and trustworthy. You can get a better sense of just how much podcast consumption in Australia is surging to understand the huge potential.

Should I Start My Podcast with a Co-host?

Going solo or teaming up with a co-host is one of the first big decisions you'll make, and it completely changes the vibe of your show. There’s no right or wrong answer, just what’s right for you. Both paths have their perks and pitfalls, so it pays to think about what suits your style.

The case for a co-host:

• Effortless Chemistry: The back-and-forth between two people often creates a dynamic energy that’s just more fun for listeners.

• Shared Load: You can divide and conquer everything from research and scripting to editing and social media.

• Broader Appeal: Another person brings their own unique perspective, which can enrich your discussions and attract a wider audience.

The reality of co-hosting:

• Scheduling Nightmares: Trying to align two busy schedules for recording can be a real headache.

• Creative Clashes: Sooner or later, you might disagree on the show's direction or format, which can create tension.

• The Commitment Factor: If one of you loses steam or has to back out, the whole podcast can be left in limbo.

A great co-hosting dynamic is like a good marriage—it needs chemistry, mutual respect, and a shared vision. Before you commit, I always recommend recording a few "pilot" episodes together. It's the only way to know if your on-air rapport is as good as you think it is.

How Do I Get Guests for My Show?

Putting yourself out there and asking people to be on your show can feel seriously intimidating. But a thoughtful, personal approach is your secret weapon. The goal is to stand out from the generic, copy-paste emails flooding their inboxes by showing you've actually done your research.

Start by making a list of guests who are a perfect match for your niche and your listeners. Don't just chase the biggest names in the game right away. Look for experts, authors, or creators who are accessible and genuinely relevant to your topic.

When it's time to write that email, make it personal and highlight what’s in it for them.

• Prove you're a real fan. Mention a specific article they wrote, a talk they gave, or a project they launched. This immediately shows you’re not just spamming a list.

• Explain the 'why'. Tell them exactly why you think they'd be a fantastic guest for your specific audience.

• Keep it short and sharp. Respect their time. A concise, easy-to-scan pitch is far more effective.

• Make saying 'yes' easy. Suggest a couple of potential recording times but make it clear you're flexible and can work around their calendar.

A genuine, well-researched invitation will almost always get a better response than a lazy, generic request. If you have more burning questions like these, you can always check out our detailed [FAQ page](https://www.thatcreativehub.au/faq-s).

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At That Creative Hub, we're all about empowering you to create — whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out. Our spaces are designed to be plug-and-play, but we’re always here to support behind the scenes. Whether you need a fully-equipped podcast studio to record in or just some expert advice to get you started, our team is ready to help bring your vision to life. Book your session and start creating with confidence at https://www.thatcreativehub.au.