The Sow Good Guide to Podcasting

A step-by-step guide from idea to impact.

Whether you’re just starting or ready to level up, this guide will walk you through the essentials at every stage of podcasting.

Beginner: Start with Clarity

You have a message — now it’s time to share it.

What you need:

  • A topic you care about – What do you love to talk about? What will serve your audience?

  • A podcast name + format – Keep it simple, clear, and aligned with your voice.

  • Basic gear – A USB mic like the Samson Q2U or Blue Yeti will do. Quiet space > fancy studio.

  • Recording platform – We recommend Riverside for easy, high-quality virtual recordings.

  • Editing software – Try GarageBand (Mac), Audacity (PC), or Descript for beginner-friendly tools.

  • Artwork + intro music – Canva + royalty-free music go a long way.

  • Host + distribution – Spotify for Creators is a great free option to publish and distribute across all major platforms.

Pro Tip: Your first few episodes are about building momentum, not perfection.

Intermediate: Build Consistency + Reach

You’ve launched, so now it’s time to grow.

What to focus on:

  • Episode rhythm – Weekly? Biweekly? Stay consistent.

  • Content planning – Use themes, series, or listener questions to guide topics.

  • Better production – Level up your sound quality, edit tighter, and consider video.

  • Promotion strategy – Share clips, quotes, and reels across social.

  • Guest workflow – Set up a smooth process with automated booking and prep forms.

  • Reviews + feedback – Ask your audience what’s resonating!

Pro Tip: Repurpose each episode into 3-5 pieces of content.

Advanced: Scale Your Show

Your podcast is growing. It’s time to turn it into a platform.

Where to focus:

  • Monetization – Sponsorships, merch, paid content, or affiliate links

  • Team + tools – Delegate editing, production, or social media

  • Multi-platform growth – YouTube, blog posts, newsletters, and more

  • Marketing campaigns – Promote like a product: launches, seasons, listener giveaways

  • Branding – Strong visuals, memorable messaging, and a clear value proposition

Pro Tip: Treat your podcast like a brand, not just a side project.

Need personalized help?

Whether you’re planning your launch or mapping your next season, we’re here to help you podcast with purpose.