Podcasting HQ is a library of plain guides for people who make podcasts or want to start one. Ryan Conlon covers the whole path, from the first idea to the first sponsor, with one clear answer for each question.
Pick a collection below, or follow the short path that comes next if the show is new.
Where to start
- Read How to Start a Podcast for the full path
- Choose gear in the Equipment collection
- Record and edit with the Recording and Production collections
- Publish through Hosting and Distribution
- Grow with Marketing and earn with Monetization
Basics
Plain answers on topics, names, formats and launch plans for new podcasters.
Equipment
Microphones, interfaces, headphones and room treatment, compared by budget.
Recording
Clean recording routines for home, phone, laptop and remote guests.
Interviews
Find guests, ask better questions and follow up after the episode.
Production
Editing workflows, cleanup, loudness and checklists for every episode.
Video
Cameras, lighting and publishing for hosts who add video.
Hosting
How to pick a host, understand costs and move a show safely.
Distribution
Submit to Apple, Spotify and more, then fix feed problems.
Marketing
Launch plans, search, reviews, email and clips that find listeners.
Analytics
Downloads, retention and listener sources explained in plain terms.
Monetization
Sponsors, ads, memberships and products with realistic expectations.
Legal
Copyright, music, releases and disclosure basics. General information only.
Articles
Short answers on scripts, intros, voice, schedules and community.
What you will find here
- Plain explanations without jargon
- Fair comparisons of gear, hosts and software
- Step by step walkthroughs for every stage
- Checklists that can be reused for each episode
- Honest notes on what to skip
Quick guide
| If you want to | Start here |
|---|---|
| Start a show | How to Start a Podcast |
| Buy a first microphone | Best Podcast Microphones for Beginners |
| Record a clean episode | How to Record a Podcast at Home |
| Choose a host | How to Choose the Right Podcast Host |
| Reach more listeners | How to Promote a Podcast From Scratch |
| Start earning | How Podcasts Make Money |
Questions podcasters ask
Who writes the guides?
Ryan Conlon writes and edits every guide on Podcasting HQ. About Us tells more about the site.
Is Podcasting HQ for beginners only?
No. The collections run from first steps to growth, analytics and income, so experienced hosts can use them too.
Does the site use affiliate links?
Yes, in some guides. The Affiliate Disclosure explains how they work and how recommendations are chosen.
How can I ask a question or suggest a topic?
Write to [email protected]. Topic requests help decide what comes next.
Trusted resources
U.S. Copyright Office
Official guidance on copyright, licensing and registration for creators.
Federal Trade Commission
Official guidance on endorsements, sponsorships and clear disclosure.
U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
Search and registration information for names and brands.
NIOSH Noise and Hearing Loss Prevention
Public health guidance on safe listening levels and hearing protection.
U.S. Small Business Administration
Guides on business structures, taxes and starting a small business.
About the author
Ryan Conlon is the author of Podcasting HQ. He writes the guides on this site, from picking a first microphone to getting a show into every major app and earning from it. His approach is to explain one question at a time, compare the options fairly and say plainly what a new podcaster can skip. Read more about Ryan.