Podcasting Foundations and Tools

This unit introduces learners to the core decisions, hardware, software, and workflows needed to begin podcasting. Students will compare formats and topics, choose microphones and recording devices, perform basic recording and editing in Audacity/Hindenburg, and produce launch assets (show art, show notes, promotion) while practicing interview, live, and mobile recording techniques.

Learning Objectives

• Analyze podcast formats, audience considerations, and topic suitability to determine whether and which type of podcast to produce
• Evaluate microphones, recording devices (laptop and mobile), and software options (Audacity, Hindenburg, commercial tools) and justify equipment/software selections within a budget
• Apply basic recording and editing workflows—perform sound checks, capture ambient noise appropriately, set bitrate (kbps) parameters, and produce a short edited audio segment using Audacity or Hindenburg
• Create and assemble podcast launch materials and production documentation, including show art, show notes, interview request templates, feedback collection methods, and a promotion-ready episode checklist