How to Start a Podcast: Practical tips from the producer of Casefile: True Crime Podcast

by Mike Migas

*** "How to Start a Practical tips from the producer of True Crime Podcast" was updated in April 2020 with new information, edit and proofread*** Do you want to learn what it takes to produce a popular podcast? Making a successful show is a tough job, but following the practical advice of someone who made the top of the podcasting charts, makes it easier."How To Start a Podcast" is a guide by a producer of True Crime Podcast – a show that started in a bedroom and became one of the most popular true-crime podcasts worldwide.In this step-by-step guide you will – how Casefile went from a bedroom hobby show to a podcast that attracts millions of downloads per month, and it's still growing– how to come up with a good subject for a podcast– how to select and set up the recording space for a show– how to choose the right hosting, artwork and social media platforms– how podcast monetisation really worksMike's advice, research and writing are based on his personal journey with True Crime Podcast. Mike learnt his skills working on blockbusting movies such as Avengers and Star Wars, and he shares his expertise for all aspiring podcasters.Learn the production techniques behind the show featured in Rolling Stone, The Independent, London Evening Standard, BuzzFeed and Vice.

206 pages, Paperback

Published May 26, 2017

Reviews

[Jessica Ritchie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Given my obsession with podcasts I decided it would be good to do some research. There are a lot of books out there now that offer advice as to how to run a podcast. However, I decided to go with Migas’s book as he works on the podcast Casefile which is one of my favourites. To be honest I wasn’t a fan of Casefile when I first started listening to it because of the production quality and it wasn’t until my sister insisted I give them another go that I was won over. The quality had drastically improved and made a big difference to the listening experience.

The first part of the book is a bit too descriptive and wordy, but it is the second half of the book that Migas’s knowledge in sound production is really beneficial. It is an easy read that gives practical advice including on costs and what one should invest in, especially if starting off. Given the success of Casefile not just because of content but also how it is produced I would recommend this book for those interested in learning more about starting a podcast.

[Tim · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a solid introduction to podcasting. Some of the information included may be out of date, given that the book dates back to 2019, but the basics probably hold up. The advice comes from a somewhat unexpected source. Migas is not a podcaster himself, i.e. he did not start and lead his own podcast, instead he is the technical director for a successful podcast (Casefile, which is led by an anonymous Australian host who records the show in his bedroom). The author knows a lot about microphones, recording technology, and podcast hosting, and less about the culture and business side of things. He also should have worked with an editor; English is not his first language and that occasionally shows. Still, it is a good look at doing a podcast from an insider's perspective.