Two of the least expensive podcast creation tools would be audio recording/mixing software along with a USB microphone.
The USB microphone simply hooks into a USB port on your computer and should then be available to any recording software for voice reception. While this scenario is in no way comparable to a professional studio it is generally enough to get moving forward with a podcast.
One of the best free alternatives for recording is a software product called Audacity. This is a relatively easy program to navigate and you can mix several audio components together to develop a better than average podcast. To find out more simply use your favorite search engine and type the word – Audacity.
To add a hint of additional professionalism you might consider the use of a service called Radio Daddy. This online forum allows you access to a wide variety of professional voice over talent. Each member has a varying degree of professional audio pedigree. The premise of the website is to allow the user access to free voice over work although you can chose an option to support the site or to hire one of the professionals to work on your podcast.
At a bare minimum podcasts will have a specific beginning and ending. Some will call this an intro and outro. Some will also have a break in the middle with either a sponsor announcement or a special segment. Some podcast creators will mix music over the start and end of the show while others just start talking and say goodbye when they're done.
Maybe the best comparison for your podcast will be that of a radio show. The personality will welcome you to the show and provide some clarity for what to expect during the show. You will then advance to the show's central theme and include interviews or how-to advice if available. You might include a recap of information or ‘bullet points' for audience convenience. Even if the listener is listening directly from your website you should include your web address for familiarity.
You can allow your podcast to be meandering, but the more focus you can put on a specific topic the better overall response you will receive from your podcast. Just like placing focus on a very specific SEO (Search Engine Optimization) strategy you will find that even if the audience is a niche audience they will likely gain much more from your podcast than if it was simply general in nature with more listeners and no clear call to action.
Podcasting can be a relatively easy addition for business owners. The use of the simple and inexpensive tools listed above can allow you to assemble quality audio content for your customers and site visitors. Your commitment to excellence can extend to the spoken word. Those words can be an exciting dynamic in the overall marketing of your ecommerce website.
