Recent experience tells me that there are a lot of things to consider or do when you want to start a podcast. Here is a quicklist in no particular order or importance:
1. Prepare a list of topics to talk about.
2. Choose topics you are familiar with or have sometime to find out.
3. Determine how long you want to have the podcast
4. You don't have keep to the planned timing but it would be a good guideline.
5. Email everyone on the podcast the list of topics
6. Test your skype connection before you start
7. Test your recording gear. If this is the first podcast test a few days ahead.
8. Get a good microphone. Don't rely on your inbuilt microphone.
9. Invest in a better microphone if you plan to do this long term.
10. Load all the websites ahead of the podcast and set it to offline mode so there is no traffic from the computer
11. Temporary turn off any memory hogging software
12. Temporary turn off any software that generate traffic on your laptop
13. Temporary turn off software updates including antivirus updates
14. Temporary turn off backup software
15. Write your questions ahead of time into que cards or use a sticky note program. Strike them out as you talk through it.
16. Find out from skype website how to improve skype's performance by configuring firewall settings.
17. If you can use a dedicated computer for recording the podcast
18. Get a good audio converter so that you can quickly convert it to multiple formats.
19. Determine upfront what formats you want to distribute it
20. Get a temporary website to host your podcast
21. Get an email address for feedback
22. If you are into Twitter or facebook setup a Twitter account and/or a facebook page
23. Relax and have fun
johnlim (@johnlim)
