There are so many free podcasting software, platforms, and applications available today. Over the years, we may have once in a while listened to it or seen someone doing so, with rapt attention that we wonder what is going on. Well, today, the popularity of podcasting has been aiming for the rooftop.
Unlike blogging and video adverts, it does away with the visual aspect and embraces the audio aspect of human communication. This makes it a readily available addition that you may engage in even when multitasking.
According to Podcast insight, as of January 2022, there were over 850,000 active podcasts and more than 30 million podcast episodes. This is a pretty startling growth, considering there were just 500,000 active podcasts from just two years ago in February 2018.
These podcast statistics are completely in line with the fact that podcasts are slowly going mainstream. In fact, it’s estimated that 70 percent of the US population is now aware of what a podcast is – up from 64 percent in 2018.
And not only that, apart from a slight dip in 2013, the number of podcast listeners in the US has pretty much been on the rise for more than a decade.
The most recent survey conducted in 2019 found that more than half (51 percent, to be exact) of consumers above the age of 12 in the US listen to podcasts (Statista, 2019). That’s a massive jump from the 44 percent registered in 2018, which is the biggest increase (in terms of percentage points) from the 13-year period from 2006 to 2019. This is also more than double the number of podcast listeners (22 percent) there was a decade ago in 2009.
Aside from the increase in regular listeners, these podcast listener statistics also show that an increasing number of US public is giving podcasting a shot: 51 percent of the overall US population has tuned into a podcast at least once, a seven percentage point increase from the 44 percent registered in 2018.
That being said, podcasts are made available through a plethora of software, applications and are hosted.
In the course of giving you a rundown, we would also be providing you with links to access these software.
What Is A Podcast?
For all it is worth, a podcast is a digital audio or video file made available on the internet for downloading to a computer or mobile device. Typically available as a series, new installments can be received by subscribers automatically.
Also according to wikipedia.com, “a podcast is an episodic series of spoken word digital audio files that a user can download to a personal device for easy listening “.
Another noteworthy point is that podcasts cover assorted topics ranging from health, politics, cycling, and even on personal lifestyle. It is more like the audio aspect of movie series that you can get online, or a recorded radio talkshow.
On how podcasts works, all you require basically, is a device, access to the internet, and of course the site you wish to get the podcast from and you are good to go. And the procedures are just the same as downloading an audio file from the web.
Though similar to audio files, the difference comes when you add the option to subscribe to that series of audio files. Due to the broad spectrum of topics it covers, it is no new occurrence that it serves as a means of brand promotion, which can be achieved through snippet talks and brief introductory talks before the main talk show.
Podcasting has become a big business, which can create a new revenue stream for you and your business through ad sales, sponsorships, or even from generating leads and driving direct sales of your company’s product or service.
However, to start a podcast series you need to have good podcast software and applications at your disposal in order to tap into the mine of podcasting and all the good it has to offer.
What Does A Podcast Software do?
Podcast software is the software device that facilitates the making of a podcast starting from recording and all the way down to pushing them online.
From the above definition, we can say that podcast software varies from audio recording software to audio editing software. However, some audio editing software also come with a built-in device that aids you to launch your podcast onto hosting sites.
How Much Does a Podcast Cost?
As with most things, the cost of getting certain things done depends on what you desire or what you want to do.
Basically, hosting a podcast may range from a few hundred dollars to a whooping thousand dollars.
However, these are the basic things you need and from these, you can assess the cost these are:
A Computer
This is the most basic equipment in your podcast utilities. You would need a computer to proceed, however, this hurdle is deemed settled if you already possess one. If not, then you can get a portable computer for as low as $300 up to $1500 depending on the size of your pocket.
Where this is not practicable, you may seek out local libraries in your area with podcasting studios that require only a token or sometimes maybe rent-free, it may require you may require an ID to be allowed into it.
A Microphone
This equipment is likely to come built-in on your computer, so you can actually start without one.
However, the downside to this is that most times, the microphone on your computer does not produce quality sound. And you may have to purchase a quality microphone for your podcast.
The Samsung Q2U is only $59.99 and is a great starter microphone. You can also get higher-end microphones with more features that cost $400 or more.
Another option is to look at gently used and refurbished microphones for sale. Did know that when items get returned to Amazon they can not be sold as new again? Even when nothing is wrong with the product, they can’t re-package and sell it as a new item. That’s where you can get amazing deals on “like-new” items!
Note: If you choose to purchase something that has been returned, or if you opt for gently used or refurbished items, make sure that you check the retailer’s return policy to protect yourself.
Podcast Editing Software
You’ll need an audio editing program to record and edit your podcast. Fortunately, you can find high-quality software that also happens to be free.
On this part, we would be giving you a more detailed synopsis and links to access them.
However, depending on your podcast editing needs, there are several paid software options as well. Some costing as low as $9 a month, while others cost $500 for a one-time purchase. But you can get through with the free ones.
Whenever you desire to buy a software, it is always a good idea to read reviews and watch tutorials on how to use the product ahead of time. The reason for this is to learn of any product glitches and to determine how easy or difficult it is to use the software before you buy it.
Headphones
The headphone aids you in getting the clearest recording possible, with lower-end pairs costing around $70 and higher-end headphones running into $500. The clearest recording would more likely keep your listeners coming back for more.
Customized Artwork
You would also need a thumbnail to accompany your recording, which would serve as a beacon to thrill your listeners while marking out your brand. You could save money if you already know how to make a design or you have a friend who can help you out with it. Also, you could use free sites that provide templates on designs such as Canva
Podcast Hosting
You would need a a site to host your podcast, more like a place to live.
While you may decide to host the podcast on your website if you have one, this is not a really good idea, because if there are plenty of downloads on your website, it might slow down your website which is not a good thing for a start-up. That’s where a reliable podcast host comes in.
A host stores your podcast and also distributes it to the many platforms where people access podcasts. This is a critical need, as you want to be found by your listeners in whatever ways they choose to listen.
How much your podcast startup costs will be, really depends on you.
And then the concept of making profit comes in.
How Do Podcasters Make Money?
This is also a question on the lips of potential podcasters.
Actually, podcasters technically earn 0$. And if perchance you are seeking quick returns or payment from your podcast series, then a piece of friendly advice to you is to look elsewhere as you would put in more money at first than you would take out of it.
However, if you can wait, offer premium content and make the sacrifices required, then it would bring you a copious returns.
The methods through which podcasters earn money though not on a specific basis and in no particular order, can be grouped into:
1. Sponsorships
Most times, when listening to a podcast, you hear your favourite host mentioning their sponsor a few times throughout the show, and also advertising them in the process. This is the most common ways through which podcasters earn their money. The truth is that it is the sponsor that facilitated the funds for that particular series.
The amount you earn from sponsors, depend on the number of times your episodes is downloaded.
And sponsors pay on a cost per mille basis. While these rates range from $18 to $50 cost per mille, it is an average, because more popular podcasts can rake in more.
Depending on where the ad is placed, you can price your ads differently. Pre-roll ads run at the beginning of the show, usually for about 15-30 seconds, mid-roll ads are more valuable because the audience are attentive at the time. Post-roll ads run at the end of the show, also for 15-30 seconds. They are worth the same to advertisers.
It is noteworthy that you may not start getting advert gigs on your podcast series, but when you garner enough audience through premium content, they would most definitely start rolling in.
2. Direct support
Simply put, direct support is when you expressly request for financial support from your listeners.
If you are a presenter with a lovable personality and a rich content, more often than not you would have persons that would readily dole out money to you so you can keep producing podcasts to entertain them.
It is one of the recommended method of raising funds and capital to keep you series afloat.
This you can achieve by adding a paypal button, opening a stripe account, adding a donation form to your site or better still creating a Patreon account, while explaining why you deserve the donation.
According to castos.com,
“A great way to get your audience to support you is to compensate them with premium content. You could charge them for early access to episodes, bonus episodes, downloadable resources, live chats, or access to newsletters and Facebook groups.”
3. Affiliate Sales
Similar to sponsorship, rather than get paid by down
Affiliate sales are similar to sponsorships, but instead of getting paid by the number of download, you get paid based on what you sell for another company. In other words, you get paid based on commission for each sale.
Some application and softwares such as Audible. provide affiliate programs which provides a special affiliate link to promote either an advertisment or sponsor. When someone uses your link, you get credit for the sale and earn $15.
4. Complementary Products
Another common way to monetize a podcast is to sell complementary products. These might come in form of merchandise, courses, consulting services, books, or access to live events.
There’s no doubt that podcast sponsorships are the most lucrative way shows make money. They are also one of the easiest revenue streams once you finalize a deal with the sponsor. All you have to do is read your ads on your podcast recording according to your agreement.
According to IAB and PwC, advertisers spent $678 million in 2019 and will spend more than a billion in 2020.
IAB and PwC forecast podcast advertising spend will surpass $1 billion by 2020.
As promised earlier, we would be giving you top free 15 podcasting softwares, platforms and applications in 2022.
15 Best Free Podcasting Software, Platforms, And Applications In 2022
There are various software, platforms, and applications for making Podcasts available online today. We would be taking you through them while listing their features in the process and also giving you links on where you can easily access them.
Here are the 15 best software for recording, editing, and playing podcasts.
- Garageband.
- Audacity.
- Spreakerstudio.
- Auphonic.
- Zencastr.
- Hindenburg journalist.
- Logic pro x.
- Reaper.
Plotting and scheduling software
- Notion.
- Buffer.
- Calendly.
- Studio one 5.
Podcast hosting platforms.
- BuzzSprout.
- Transistor.
- Castos.
1. GarageBand
Garageband is a product from Apple available on Appstore. This software being approximately one gigabyte comes with a pre-installed library, through which you can add and modify speed and transitions in your recording.
As a perk, it supports multiple languages and audio formats. And it is free of charge.
Key Features include:
- Allows you to create and save tracks on go-between IoS devices,
- You can share your creations via email or social networks
PRO-TIP: Works seamlessly on Mac systems 10.13.6 and above.
You can get it through this link:
2. Audacity
An open-source audio recording studio created by a group of volunteer developers. Audacity has a multi-platform friendly disposal, it can be used on mac, window and linux based operating systems.
Audacity has 100 million downloads as of October 2020! You can record live audio, import, and edit sound files, and redo sessions.
Key Features:
Provides you with a Spectrogram view mode,
Recording and playing back sounds
Scrubbing (Version 2.1.1 and later)
Timer Record[19] enables the user to schedule when a recording begins and ends to make an unattended recording.
MIDI playback is available (from version 2.2.0 onwards)
Punch and Roll recording – for editing on-the-fly (from version 2.3.0 onwards)
zoom and single track edit, project pane and XY project navigation, non-destructive and destructive effect processing, audio file manipulation (cut, copy, paste)
Precise adjustments to the audio speed (tempo) while maintaining pitch in order to synchronize it with video or run for a predetermined length of time
Cross-platform operation — Audacity works on Windows, macOS, and other Unix-like systems (including Linux and BSD)
Get it from here:
http://sourceforge.net/projects/audacity/
3. SpreakerStudio
This software provides you the option of either creating a podcast or listening to one already in existence. This is also a sure channel to monetizing your podcasts.
It has the software version and the mobile applications compatible with smartphones, where you can create either on their desktop of the mobile applications by either uploading or doing a live record and then importing them to your speaker. And it is also Android, Mac, iOS, and web-based compatible.
It is a software that comes with both a free package and paid package. The paid packages are Anchorman, broadcaster, and on-air talent, and cost USD 45, 18, and 6 respectively.
Key features include:
- It saves works automatically as drafts
- integrates Skype directly with the console.
- It has the drag and drop feature, that enables you to drag songs,audio effect ad podcasts into the app.
To get the software or more information, click on the link:
4. Auphonic
This is an audio optimization software that helps you finetune your podcasts before the are hosted.
Auphonic supports many standard file formats. Basically, Auphonic is more suitable as an editing software
It also gives you 2 hours of audio processing every month for free.
But If you need more processing time, you can sign up for their subscription plan called “Recurring Credits” or purchase “One-Time Credits,”.
This software is compatible on android audio editor and iOS recorders
Key features:
- Intelligent sound Leveler
- Loudness Normalization
- Audio Restoration
- automatic noise and hum reduction, filtering of unwanted low frequencies
- Multitrack Algorithms
- Speech Recognition and Transcript Editor
- Optimal Encoding, Metadata and Chapter Marks
- Enhanced podcasts, chapters in MP4, ID3 (MP3) and Vorbis
- Video Workflow and Audiograms
- Automatic Content Deployment
- Dropbox, (S)FTP, HTTP, Google Drive, and Cloud Storage, WebDAV, (Amazon) S3, YouTube, Facebook, SoundCloud, Spreak
Also See: How To Make Money On Snapchat | 10 Legit Ways
5. Zencastr
This is a web-based podcast recording software that aids you in creating quality audio documents on a web browser. This tool does not require third-party apps like Skype, zoom or hangout as it uses its own voice over IP services. It also affords you the opportunity to recording other people and talking, due to it’s cloud integration. Another perk to this tool is that it drops your recordings to your dropbox or Google drive while saving it automatically.
Moreover, since it is a web-based podcasting tool, you need not make any downloads to access it. All you need to do is create an account, and you are good to go!
It has a free plan for up to 2 guests and 8 hours of recording per month. However there is a $20 fee/month for persons desiring to embark on professional usage which comes after a 14-day free trial.
Its features include:
- User friendly interface
- Built-in Voice over Internet Protocol
- It records audio in 16-bit 44.1k lossless WAV. Which means that the file is not compressed, and it doesn’t loose its original character.
- Cloud based storage ( via your dropbox or Google drive)
- Uploads audio tracks automatically.
Use this link to begin podcasting:
6. Hidenburg Journalist.
Hindenburg Journalist is a multitrack audio editor that is made for podcasters, audio producers and radio journalists.
The design and features are tailored for spoken-word productions. Generally it is most suitable for story-telling and interviews.
It basically allows you to record through a microphone, drag and drop audio files into the software to start working. And you can also add as many tracks as you wish.
During an interview you can set markers and add notes. While you are at it, it uses the latest loudness standards for setting levels. This makes it easy for you to set correct levels and saves you a lot of time.
You can also organisé your work with the aid of it’s unique clip board.
Key features:
- Cross Platform:
can be used both on Windows 10 & Apple devices
- Non destructive process
It makes no modifications to original audio files
- Automated Levels
Levels set on imported audio using EBU R128 loudness.
- Voice Profiler
Auto EQ “on air” voice sound
This software is however not free as it comes at the rate of $95 which is preceeded by a thirty days free trial. At least that should enough time for you to consider whether or not to buy.
Get it from:
https://hindenburg.com/products/hindenburg-journalist-pro
7. Logic Pro X
This is a Digital Audio Workstation (D.A.W) from the stables of Apple. This it is made for mac users. Most time, it is often times refered to as the big brother of Garageband.
This tool is basically made for audio editing and mixing.
With a easy-to-use user window, that also comes with a quick help button, you can not be overwhelmed by its features.
A quick hover with the mouse would bring up its name and functions.
It consists of the following features:
- robust audio track work-system, and an intuitive midi and sample-based sector.
- compatibility with outside plugins and VSTs.
- Wide range of MIDI instruments available
- score and advanced editing functionality
Get from this link:
https://www.apple.com/logic-pro/
All these features and more doesn’t come cheap, as Logic Pro X comes with a one-time purchase price of $200. However, it comes with a 90-day trial, which is more than enough time for you to get familiar with the tool and decide its worth.
8. Reaper
An acronym for Rapid Environment for Audio Production, Engineering, and Recording
This lightweight powerful DAW software is available for windows, mac os and linux systems.
It requires you to buy a licence in other to use it, though it offers you a 60day evalution period before you pay. The licences are of two type, personal use costing $60 and commercial licence costing $225.
With some of it’s features such as:
- Plug-in Embedding:Embed small versions of some plug-ins into your tracks control and mixer panels, including ReaEQ, ReaFIR, ReaXcomp, graphical JSFX plug-ins, and moreMIDI
- CC Envelopes:Handle MIDI CC data as continuous data envelopes, rather than discrete events; create smooth, musical articulations and effectsAuto-stretch
- Timebase:Automatically stretch and reconform audio around complex tempo changes; easily work with tempo-mapped and live-played recordings togetherRouting
- Diagram:View and edit project routing using a high-level graphical patchbay emulation
- Retina/HiDPI:Automatic rendering to HiDPI and Retina displays; new Default 6 theme supports 100%, 150% and 200% nativelyBig
- Project Improvements:Vastly optimized behavior for projects with high (200+) track counts; Metal display support for massively faster screen drawing on newer macOS displays.
- it is able to offer you a seamless recording and editing experience.
REAPER includes no third-party software, though it is fully compatible with all versions of the VST standard (currently VST3) and thus works with the vast majority of both free and commercial plugins available. REAPER x64 can also run 32-bit plug-ins alongside 64-bit processes. As of version 5.97, REAPER supports ARA 2 plugins.
Plotting and scheduling softwares: these softwares help you in organising and planning the organisation of your series and allied businesses, which helps in boosting your efficiency and your brand in no small way. they include:
9. Notion
Notion is a platform with modified markdown support that uses kanban boards, tasks, wikis, and databases. it is an all-in-one workspace for note-taking, knowledge and data management, and project and task management. It’s project management feature helps you keep up with your tasks that you set up with its unified workspace. In addition to being compatible with cross-platform apps, it can be accessed via most web browsers. It includes a tool for “clipping” content from webpages. It helps you schedule tasks, manage files, save documents, set reminders, keep agendas, organize your work. You can also embed online content in your Notion pages using Embed.ly.
It has a four-tiered subscription model:
- free,
- personal,
- team, and
- enterprise.
With Its Premium prices starting at $5/month.
It offers an account credit system where you can earn credit via referrals.
Even if you are working alone or within a team, Notion is one tool for writing, planning, and scheduling your podcast series. A breeze to use and interact through web and mobile app, helps you keep all podcasting notes and plans within one place and for all involved to see and interact. Documents and notes and tasks, and all other information you can easily manage with the use of this tool.
Features of Notion include:
- Access Controls/Permissions
- Budget Management
- Allows for Collaboration
- Customizable Dashboard
- Document Retention
- Import Tasks
- Meeting Notes
- Minutes Management
- Project Planning/Scheduling
- Task Board View
- Task Progress Tracking
- Third Party Integrations (i.e compatibility with third-party apps)
To visit their website:
10. Buffer
Buffer helps you with scheduling your podcasts and promotional social media posts. you can automate some steps of your podcast, content marketing strategy with it. All you need is to simply make a queue of your promotional posts and steps of the podcasts and it is as good as done.
The Free plan gives you access to connect 3 social channels and schedule up to 10 posts in advance per channel.
If you require additional services, it requires a flat price of $15/month which comes after a free 14-day trial.
Its features include:
- Offers Multiple posts and tweets
- Multi-media format sharing
- Agency/business planning
- iOS, Android, mac and windows support
- 2-step account login for advanced security.
- Customized scheduling
- Standard buffering
Official website:
11. Calendly
This is a podcast scheduling software that eliminates the previous method of using email and phone tags for scheduling appointments, calls, interviews, demos, and many more.
It lets you set automated reminders of your podcast interviews and other allied appointments. Not only that, it has a short and simple version that comes with 1 calendar connection per user, as well as one event type, which should be enough for keeping track of your podcast interviews.
Its pricing starts at :
- Basic:Free
- Premium:$10/user per month
- Pro:$15/user per month
It also offers a 14 day free pro trial
Its features are:
- It sends confirmation and reminder emails and texts to improve no‑show rates
- It adds extra time before or after events
- It helps you avoid last minute meetings and give yourself enough time to prepare through its minimum scheduling notice.
- Displays availability in your invitee’s time zone with intelligent time zone detection
- Delivers an experience that aligns with your brand by removing Calendly branding and customizing your profile
12. Studio one 5
Studio One 5 is a podcast making tool that allows you to record, produce, mix, master, and perform all related functions from a single application. consisting of a Start Page that provides you with a dashboard with all your songs, projects, and shows, including a customized addition of metadata to all your creations.
It comes with an easy-to-use Setlist that lets you mould your performance and change your show every time or alter your performance in real-time.
Among the pioneer of the drag and drop feature in DAW softwares they advanced to include dragging: Audio loops, virtual instruments, plug-in effects and even presets into your session from Studio One’s innovative Browser.
It’s features include:
- Added 64-bit float resolution (Professional Version only)
- New Aux Channels
- Independent Listen Bus (Professional Only)
- Extended Mixer Scenes
For more information and briefing, click here:
Podcast hosting platforms.
Podcast hosting is the final part of you series, though as earlier said, you may wish to use your website to host it if you have one. However as the number of downloads on you website increases, it tends to slow down the website, and this is no a good thing for any website as it would scare away your potential listeners. However you may use these ones.
13. BuzzSprout
This podcast hosting site has been in service since 2009 and also have 100,000+ podcasters to their merit coupled with the fact that they are one of the few companies that offer you a free plan with unlimited team members accounts.
Key Features:
- Automatic episode optimization
- Use of transcription to make your podcast easily accessible.
- Podcast monetization, that helps you mention your sponsors.
- Magic Mastering. Which allows you to mask unwanted background noise for top notch delivery.
They have an awesome pricing plan with
Free: upload 2 hours each month and episodes hosted for 90 days.
$12/month: upload 3 hours each month, hosted indefinitely, unlimited storage.
$18/month: features above, plus upload 6 hours each month.
$24/month: features above, plus upload 12 hours each month.
What more, you get $20 worth of itunes gift card when you sign up.
Get it on:
14. Transistor
One of the recent podcast analytics and hosting platforms, with great features too. Though not really free, they offer you a two weeks trial period to decide whether or not to proceed with the usage and their Pricing starts at $19/month for 10,000 downloads per month, which should be okay for most people.
It is most ideal for persons who dabble into podcasting as a hobby or as a hustle.
Their newest addition allows you to host a private podcast without requiring you to pay another hosting fee. Isn’t that great?
Features include:
- Speedy submission of your podcasts across relevant platforms.
- You can host Multiple podcast ( private anv public)
- API and embeddable player that lets you put embed your latest podcast episodes on your landing page.
Get from here:
https://transistor.fm/?via=adam
15. Castos
Castos is a full-featured and integrated podcasting plugin that works like an extension for WordPress.
If you have a WordPress site, all you need to do is:
Go to their website which gives you a 2-weeks free trial .
You install WordPress plugins
And whenever you wish to host a podcast, you add them into the new Podcast section inside of WordPress:
After which you would need to input your description, and you are good to go.
It has a pocket friendly price package that starts from:
Starter ($19/month): unlimited storage and perfect for the essentials.
Growth ($49/month): Features above, plus YouTube republishing and custom audiograms.
Pro ($99/month): Features above, plus advanced analytics and video file hosting.
Overall, if you’re looking for podcast hosting for WordPress, Castos is the best choice.
Key Features:
- Automatic transcription – upload your audio files and transcriptions are added to your dashboard within minutes.
- Republishes to YouTube.
- Customizable podcast webpage.
- Podcast analytics.
get it on:
Conclusion
In the above Article, we have been able to bring to your notice the various free and affordable podcasting Softwares, Platforms and Applications that you can get online at the moment. Feel free to make a choice that aligns with your pocket. And we hope you find this helpful
References
- https://mekshq.com/free-and-premium-podcast-software/#zencastr
- https://ng.oberlo.com/blog/podcast-statistics
- dictionary definition of podcast. https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://languages.oup.com/google-dictionary-en&ved=2ahUKEwjX5rfX4qrwAhVHLBoKHRzXAFUQvecEMAB6BAgDEAQ&usg=AOvVaw3kNBXVjbAIAFeyFQVCJmJF.
- https://www.google.com/amp/s/castos.com/how-much-money-can-podcasters-make/amp/
- https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/REAPER
We also Recommend
