Starting a podcast is easier than ever. Here's everything you need to launch your show in 2026.
Essential Equipment
Microphone
Budget: Blue Yeti or Audio-Technica AT2020 ($100-130) Quality: Shure SM7B ($400) - industry standard Remote: Use what you have, upgrade later
Headphones
Any closed-back headphones work for monitoring. Don't skip this.
Pop Filter
Reduces plosives (p and b sounds). $15-30.
Recording Software
Free Options
- Audacity: Free, open-source audio editor
- GarageBand: Free for Mac users
- Zencastr: Free tier for remote recording
Paid Options
- Descript: Edit audio by editing text
- Adobe Audition: Professional audio editing
- Riverside: High-quality remote recording
Hosting Platforms
Buzzsprout
Best for beginners. Free tier with 2 hours/month. Easy distribution to all platforms.
Transistor
Best for professionals. Unlimited shows, advanced analytics. $19/month starting.
Podbean
Good middle ground. Generous storage and monetization options.
Remote Recording
Riverside
Records locally for best quality. Used by major podcasters.
Zencastr
Free tier available. Automatic post-production.
SquadCast
Similar to Riverside with different pricing.
Growth Tools
Chartable
Analytics and attribution tracking.
Headliner
Create audiograms for social media.
Descript
Automatic transcription and clips.
Budget Recommendations
No Budget:
- Smartphone headphones
- Audacity (free)
- Buzzsprout free tier
$100 Budget:
- Blue Yeti microphone
- Audacity
- Buzzsprout free tier
$300 Budget:
- Blue Yeti + pop filter
- Descript or Riverside
- Buzzsprout paid tier
$1000 Budget:
- Shure SM7B + interface
- Descript
- Transistor
- Professional treatment
Launch Checklist
- Choose your topic and format
- Get basic equipment
- Select hosting platform
- Record your first 3 episodes
- Create cover art (1440x1440px)
- Write show description
- Submit to directories
- Plan promotion strategy
Conclusion
You don't need expensive equipment to start. Many successful podcasts began with just a phone. Start simple, improve as you grow.