7 Tools I Use to Podcast Full-Time from My Bedroom
On my podcast DiabetestechI report on the latest diabetes technology and research through both interviews and solo episodes. I chose to produce a weekly video podcast because I’ve been working in video production for ten years and already had a YouTube channel with a large audience, so I knew I had the experience to make it happen.
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What I didn’t have at my disposal was a large, fancy video production studio. So I had to be very intentional about my setup to create a routine with minimal space and keep my tech neat and lean. In fact, I currently run my entire operation from a desk in my bedroom.
Video podcasts have become an increasingly popular medium for communicating information. A study by research agency Morning Consult found that 46% of podcast listeners prefer podcasts with video and that YouTube is the most popular platform among regular listeners, even above Spotify and Apple.
You don’t have to start with video to be successful, though. Many new podcasters choose to go audio-only to get started. The most important step is to put yourself out there. (As Nike likes to say, “Just do it.”) Record, post, learn as you go, and ask for feedback along the way. Your delivery and production value will improve over time.
My instructions below will help you get started, whether you’re starting with audio only or want to integrate video from day one. Here’s the hardware and software I use to produce a successful weekly show from my apartment bedroom.
My Video Podcast Equipment
The most important part of a podcast is audio. This should be the first piece of equipment you upgrade, as it is essential for both video and non-video podcasts.
In my research I found two leading players in this space: Logitech and Shure. I went with the Blue Sona from Logitech and a Elgato Wave XLR MixerI am very pleased with the quality, although I sometimes notice that my ‘Ps’ sounds can be heard in the recordings.
For video recording I used my Macbook Pro webcam at first, then I switched to an iPhone with Continuity Camera. This allowed me to use my iPhone’s much better camera as a webcam. I also have a Belkin MagSafe Camera Mount to mount my phone to the top of my Mac screen. This is the easiest way for an Apple user to have great video quality. I have since switched to using a Canon DSLR camera for more control over the shot.
When I switched to using a DSLR camera, I also got the Elgato Teleprompterwhich is mounted on a camera that looks through a reflected image of an additional computer monitor. This allows me to look directly at an interviewee and stare straight into the camera lens, so it appears as if I am looking straight out at the audience. I can also call up my interview questions on this screen, so I never have to look away.
The Elgato Teleprompter also functions as an additional screen, allowing you to easily look directly into the camera lens, even during video calls.
The Elgato Teleprompter mounts a phone, DSLR or proprietary Elgato camera for filming. I’ve used both my iPhone and Canon on it and it’s been incredibly useful. I’ve had both my camera and microphone on one Elgato Wave Microphone Arm so you can easily rotate them into the correct position when you want to record.
Lighting is another important part of filming a video podcast. The better the lighting, the higher quality video you can capture. I use the Nanoleaf lines above my desk as a light. This was a fun way to use decorative smart lighting as the main lighting for my show, and I find that 10-12 lines on my wall is plenty, which is the starter kit and expansion pack. Elgato also sells some great main lights for an affordable price.
The author’s smart Nanoleaf light also serves as his main light when shooting video.
This technology makes everything look and sound great, but ultimately it’s your voice and your ideas that will shine through to your listeners. Don’t get bogged down in the technical stuff — just speak your truth.
Software I use to record and distribute episodes
There are a few things you’ll need to actually record and distribute your show.
First, you’ll need to choose a platform to host your show. Podcasts don’t live directly on podcast platforms, but are sent via what’s called an RSS feed. Podcast hosting sites provide servers for users to upload podcasts and send an RSS feed to platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more.
The host I decided to go with was Podbean. I found Podbean to have the best value, audience analytics, and ad integration tools. Spotify offers its own platform, but I didn’t want to be reliant on one platform’s control. Podbean allows me to stream my show on all podcast platforms and offers the ability to upload directly to YouTube (audio only). I encourage you to do your research and find the best option for your needs.
Next, you need a platform to record the podcast. Sure, there’s Zoom, but I’ve found that it compresses video files and is highly dependent on the stability of the internet. I opted to Riverside because I can film interviews using the web browser or smartphone app and the footage of each person is recorded locally, so the quality is preserved. Footage can be recorded up to 4K, Riverside servers store all interviews, and the app has an intuitive interface while recording. It also has an advanced editing platform for editing podcasts directly on the site and uses AI to type out transcripts and cut social clips for you.
A screenshot of the author’s screen using Riverside.fm for interviews.
Prepare for podcasting success
When your technical setup is easy to use, you’ll have more time to do what really matters, which is share valuable information and insights with your listeners. Set up a workstation that works for you, so you can do more of what you love and have fun along the way.
