Podcasts have become an increasingly popular way to share information and ideas and to make a global impact. Before we talk about the how, let’s talk about the why. In this article, we will explore some of the reasons why churches should consider starting a podcast, and we’ll cover the basics of starting a podcast.
During the pandemic, podcasts became the new pulpit when people couldn’t attend services in person. In recent years, many churches have started exploring the potential of podcasts to reach a wider audience and engage with their congregations. Podcasts are an effective way to reach a wider audience. With the rise of digital media, more people are consuming content online. Podcasts can be easily downloaded and listened to on-demand, making them convenient for people to stay connected and grow in their faith. A podcast is essential for churches with geographically-dispersed congregations or those who want to reach people who may not have a church nearby.
Podcasts are an excellent discipleship tool – to create deeper engagement with members or potential members. Churches can use podcasts to share sermons, teachings, and other religious content, which can help to keep people connected to the church. Also, podcasts create a sense of community around a specific topic by allowing listeners to connect and discuss the content. This type of podcast can be especially beneficial for small groups or people who may not be able to attend services in person, like those who are hospitalized or who have special needs.
Podcasts are an excellent way to share a church’s mission and values. Churches can use podcasts to share stories about making a difference in their community or their vision for the future. This can attract new members and build community among existing members.
Podcasts are relatively inexpensive to produce and distribute. Unlike traditional forms of media, such as television or radio, podcasting does not require a significant investment in equipment or infrastructure. Additionally, podcast hosting and distribution platforms are widely available for free or for a small monthly fee.
Now for the how. Here are 5 easy steps to start a podcast for your church.
Step #1: Name and brand your show. As a podcast host, you have free reign over the name of your broadcast. However, there are several considerations before selecting the name of your podcast. You will want a unique, keyword-searchable name that clearly articulates the key points your show will cover. A unique name helps your podcast stand out among the competition in your category and helps attract potential listeners. A keyword-searchable title will be consistently picked up by search engines and it will answer the questions your listeners and potential listeners have on their minds.
Step #2: Decide on a show format.
Decide the best podcast format for your church. Podcast formats are typically either a solo show, co-hosted show, or an interview show. For a solo show, the host provides a monologue. The ideal host for this type of show is a great storyteller or someone with great content who is engaging and can be focused and concise in delivery. On the other hand, an interview show has a conversational element or question-and-answer format. This show benefits someone who enjoys learning from stories, meeting new people, and highlighting a guest’s expertise.
Step 3: Take time to record, edit, and produce your show.
Once you’ve created the essential framework details for your show, you can begin to record your podcast episodes. Seek to understand your listener’s needs and serve the people well that have been entrusted to you. There are several applications for recording and editing the episodes of your show. Because audio quality is vital with podcasting at Spark Media, we recommend recording with a good-quality microphone and an audio interface.
We use the Rode Podemic and the Rodecaster Pro audio interface. We use Hindenburg Journalist Pro editing software for all of our podcast editing. In addition to your high-quality audio, you will want well-produced royalty-free music and cover art that is compelling and on-brand with your church to attract listeners to your show.
Step 4: Publish your show.
It’s almost time to press the publish button. This is when your episodes go live, and your listeners finally hear the content you have been working hard to create. Your podcast needs an RSS feed, which you can obtain through a podcast hosting provider or web hosting company. You will also want to publish your show in all podcasting directories. Posting to directories helps with discoverability for your podcast. You will want to ensure that you have a bank of at least three episodes to launch with so your listeners have plenty of content to enjoy.
Step #5: Promote your show.
You will want to promote your show now that you have created this amazing content. You will want to spread the word on your website and social media channels. Social promotion will help your show gain visibility, credibility, and listenership. It would be best if you created a digital strategy before you launch, and you always want to make sure you have a clear call to action in both your podcast episode and when promoting through your email list or on social media.
In conclusion, podcasts are a powerful tool that churches can use to reach a wider audience, create deeper engagement with congregations, and share their mission and values, at a low cost. If you’re a church leader considering how to use modern technology to reach your congregation and community, starting a podcast is definitely worth considering.
If you like more information on starting a podcast download a copy of my free-book Create & Grow a Stellar Podcast
Also, you can learn more about all the ways to launch, grow and monetize your show by visiting our website at SparkMedia.Ventures
Misty Phillip is the Founder of Spark Media, Misty equips Christian Communicators and podcasters through virtual and live events, Spark Media Podcast Network, Spark Media Magazine, the Spark Collective membership community, and the Spark Radio Initiative. The Spark Media hour can be heard on KHCB Radio Uplftd Stream. She is the host of the By His Grace Podcast ranked in the top 1.5 percent of all podcasts globally, and the co-host of Spark Influence. Misty is a a sought-after inspirational speaker and the author of the award-winning #1 Amazon New Release Bible Study, The Struggle is Real: But so is God, and the Spark Podcast Planner. MistyPhillip.com and SparkMedia.Ventures