Creating Podcasts

Depending on what you would like to achieve with your podcast, you may find yourself contemplating on if you want your podcast to include a video component or just sticking to audio recording. These formats are both great, and they each come with different benefits:

Benefits of Video Podcasts:

1. Visual Engagement: Video podcasts allow hosts and guests to connect with their audience on a more personal level by adding a visual element. Viewers can see facial expressions, body language, and other visual cues that enhance the overall engagement.

2. Expanded Reach: Video content can be shared on additional platforms like YouTube or social media channels, reaching a broader audience beyond traditional podcast platforms. Video podcasts also have the potential to attract viewers who prefer visual content over audio-only formats.

3. Enhanced Branding: Video podcasts provide opportunities for branding and visual storytelling. Hosts can incorporate branding elements like logos, graphics, and animations to reinforce their brand identity and create a more memorable viewing experience.

Benefits of Audio Podcasts:

1. Accessibility and Convenience: Audio podcasts are accessible to listeners anytime, anywhere, making them a convenient option for multitasking activities like commuting, exercising, etc. Unlike video podcasts, they don't require visual attention, allowing listeners to consume content on the go.

2. Lower Production: There's no need for expensive video recording equipment, lighting setups, or post-production editing for visuals, making it a more friendly option for people new to podcasting. 

3. Focus on Content: Without the distractions of visuals, audio podcasts can focus solely on the content and storytelling. Listeners can immerse themselves in the conversation without being visually stimulated, allowing for deeper engagement with the subject matter.

The Podcast Studio can be booked and is nestled in the back of L414 on the left side of the room.

This podcast studio is a great space for recording your audio work in a group, especially if it's for a podcast or interview. The room has been set up for this type of situation and even allows for simultaneous recording of video, should you be working on a video podcast or interview. You must be a current McMaster student or staff member, with valid Mac ID to use the podcast studio.

Available for use in the room:

• A computer with wireless keyboard & mouse
• Rode Microphones
• Rode Mixer 
• A table with 4 chairs
• Headphones
• Webcam
• Portable green screen

                                                                                                                                                              Image courtesy of Podcast But Outside 

Recording a podcast outside of a studio, whether it's in someone's office or outdoors, requires some additional considerations to ensure good audio quality and a smooth recording process.

Here are some tips for recording a podcast in non-studio environments:

1. Choose the Right Location: Select a quiet environment with minimal background noise. If you're recording in an office, choose a room with carpeting, curtains, or furniture to help absorb sound. Outdoors, try to find a secluded spot away from traffic, crowds, or other sources of noise.

2. Test the Acoustics: Before recording, test the acoustics of the space by clapping your hands or speaking at normal volume. Listen for any echoes, reverberations, or background noise that could affect the recording quality.

3. Use External Microphones: Invest in quality external microphones to capture clear audio. Directional microphones like shotgun or lapel mics are ideal for reducing ambient noise and capturing focused sound from the speakers.

4. Wind Protection: If recording outdoors, use wind protection devices like foam windscreens or furry windshields to minimize wind noise and distortion.

5. Bring Backup Equipment: Always have spare batteries, cables, and other essential equipment on hand in case of technical issues or emergencies.

6. Post-Production Editing: Plan for post-production editing to fine-tune the audio, remove background noise, and enhance overall sound quality. Editing software like Audacity or Adobe Audition can help polish the final recording before publication.

By following these tips and being prepared for various recording challenges, you can successfully record a podcast outside of a studio while maintaining high audio standards and delivering engaging content.

Whether you’re recording in an audio booth or at home, these tips and tricks will ensure you have a great podcast recording.

Test your equipment: Set up your equipment and test it before you plan on recording. This will save you time when it comes to record, and give you more experience with the set up.

Set your position: Along with equipment set up, decide how you (and your guests) will be set up. If you are using cameras, make sure all guests can be seen.

Use headphones while recording, if possible: Wearing headphones allows you to hear your voice while recording. This is extremely helpful as it can assist you with adjusting your position in front of the microphone as well as monitoring your voice's volume levels.

Monitor your levels: Keep an eye on your audio levels while recording. If your audio is peaking into the yellow or red section, turn down your microphone or move further away. If your levels are green, you’re good to go!

Warm up: Warm up your voice before recording. Count to 20, sing a song, do some warm up tricks, etc. This will help limit voice cracks, as well as stumbling over your words.

Drink Water: Keep water (or tea or another beverage) on hand to avoid getting a hoarse voice or dry mouth. Your guest will also appreciate it, if you offer them a glass!

Leave time for saving and exporting: Depending on the length of your recording, your files may be larger in size. Leave lots of time to save and export your files, it can take longer than you think.

Recording at home

If your space is not designed for audio recording, here are some tips and tricks to help you create a better recording space:

Surround yourself with texture:

Textures help absorb audio waves and limit echo. You can add texture to your space by adding things like:

• Throw pillows
• Blankets
• Rugs
• Curtains

Record away from walls and windows: 

Recording close to walls and windows can make you sound like you’re recording in a tin can. The best to place yourself at least 2 feet away from walls, this allows your sound waves to travel and can help with your sound quality.

Limit background noise: 

This can be a tough one, but here are some things that can be distractions or create lots of background noise:

• Traffic/busy streets
• Pets
• Fans/air vents

While these may be out of your control, try to find a space that limits potential background noise.